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Science News Archive November 2008 - Page 15


Page 15 of 20

Study doubles species diversity of enigmatic 'flying lemurs'

A new report published in Current Biology reveals that the Sunda colugo has at least three separate species, with each geographic region harboring its own unique species. The findings have important conservation implications for these enigmatic mammals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 10, 2008

Researchers discover method for mass production of nanomaterial graphene

Researchers from UCLA's California NanoSystems Institute propose a method to produce graphene sheets in large quantities using hydrazine solution. This breakthrough enables the creation of the largest graphene sample reported, with applications in solar cells, sensors, and electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 10, 2008

Cornell researchers' study showing evidence of a major environmental trigger for autism

A study by Cornell researchers has identified a possible environmental trigger for autism in genetically vulnerable children, which could lead to preventable diagnoses. The study found that higher levels of precipitation are associated with increased autism prevalence rates in counties with more exposed children.

SourceCornell University·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

New performance measures on performance measurement and reperfusion therapy

The document provides a comprehensive assessment of care by establishing new performance measures, including the importance of acute reperfusion therapy and the need for accountability in providing timely treatment. It also addresses concerns about exclusion criteria and the determination of when measurement stops.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 10, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Evidence does not support current guidelines for use of beta-blocker therapy

A meta-analysis of 33 trials found no significant reduction in mortality risk with beta-blockers in non-cardiac surgery patients, but did reduce heart attack and vessel blockage risk; however, it also increased stroke risk. The authors call for reevaluation of guidelines until conclusive evidence is available.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 10, 2008

Pittsburgh Compound B finds Alzheimer’s-associated plaques in symptom-free older adults

The study finds that Pittsburgh Compound B can detect amyloid deposition in the brains of clinically older adults, potentially opening the door to early diagnosis and prevention strategies. Detailed tests show no decrease in functioning among participants with Alzheimer-associated plaques, suggesting a window of opportunity to slow or ...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateNov 10, 2008

3 clinical features identified to avoid misdiagnosis of TIAs

Studies found three clinical features that can help accurately diagnose transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), including the speed of onset and a patient's medical history. These features correctly classified 79% of cases, leading to improved diagnosis accuracy and reduced risk of misdiagnosis.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalCerebrovascular Diseases·DateNov 10, 2008

Battling bacteria in the blood: Researchers tackle deadly infections

New computer-based models describe how bacteria act within blood vessels and can be filtered out, offering insights into treatment options for bacteremia and sepsis. The models validate laboratory experiments in mice and have implications for developing new treatments for deadly bacterial infections.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalShock·DateNov 10, 2008

Wake Forest Baptist to receive nearly $2 million to expand geriatrics program

The grant will support the development of leaders in geriatric medicine and teaching programs, as well as new training opportunities for medical students and residents. The Wake Forest University School of Medicine will also establish a curriculum for specialty physicians to integrate geriatrics principles into their teaching programs.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateNov 10, 2008
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Liquid or solid? Charged nanoparticles in lipid membrane decide

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a new way to stimulate patchiness in phospholipid membranes using charged nanoparticles. This phenomenon allows the membrane to coexist in two phases - solid and liquid - depending on what binds to it, offering a new mechanism for modulating stiffness in membranes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2008

Crossing the digital divide

A new study by the Oregon Evidence-based Practice Center finds that patients are more likely to use interactive health IT systems when they perceive a real health benefit and receive tailored feedback. The most effective disease self-management systems provide a complete feedback loop with active participation from physicians, current ...

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateNov 10, 2008

What makes an axon an axon?

Scientists have discovered that a protein banished from mature axons allows them to transform into dendrites. This process could occur after nerve cell damage, raising possibilities for the reverse transformation.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 10, 2008

Black and south Asian people benefiting less from interventions to reduce blood pressure, says study

A new UK study found that black and south Asian people are less likely to benefit from doctors' interventions to reduce their blood pressure. The study, which looked at over 8,800 patients with high blood pressure, found significant differences in treatment outcomes between white, black, and south Asian groups.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

Signaling between protein, growth factor is critical for coordinated cell migration

A study by University of Utah researchers reveals that interaction between Wnt and Fgf growth factor signaling pathways is crucial for proper collective cell migration. Proper division of labor between the two pathways enables cells to migrate directionally, but defects in these interactions may lead to cancer progression.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 10, 2008
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Study finds rise in rate of diagnostic imaging in managed care

A study found a significant increase in radiology tests in managed care settings, with an average cost per patient increasing by $214 over 10 years. Newer technologies like CT and MRI scans also saw a rise, but their use was not as efficient as expected.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 10, 2008

Caring for the caregiver: Redefining the definition of patient

A recent Indiana University study reveals that 25% of family caregivers of Alzheimer's patients visit the emergency room or are hospitalized every six months. The study emphasizes the need for a broader definition of patient to include both the individual with dementia and their caregiver.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

Eliminating soda from school diets does not affect overall consumption

Reducing availability of sugar-sweetened beverages in schools had limited effect on total consumption by adolescents. Consumption of SSB decreased across all students, regardless of whether they attended an intervention or control school, suggesting that successful reduction can occur but may not lead to significant change.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateNov 10, 2008

Tillage, rotation impacts peanut crops

A new study published in Agronomy Journal reveals that reduced tillage can increase peanut crop yields, but the effects of crop rotation and tillage on pest development are more complex. The research found an independent relationship between tillage and rotation practices with respect to peanut yield and pest development.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateNov 10, 2008
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

November/December 2008 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Studies examine racial and ethnic disparities in hypertension care and control, finding that racial disparities contribute to nearly 8,000 preventable deaths from heart disease and stroke annually. Researchers also investigate how medication prescribing and blood pressure control vary between ethnic groups in England, revealing signifi...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

Reynolds Foundation awards UT Southwestern grant to expand geriatric training

The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation has awarded UT Southwestern Medical Center a nearly $2 million grant to expand geriatric training in the medical school curriculum. The Southwestern Aging and Geriatrics Education (SAGE) program will improve physician trainees' knowledge, skills, and attitudes towards caring for elderly patients.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateNov 10, 2008

No drop in IQ seen after bypass for child heart surgery

Researchers found no significant difference between pediatric patients who underwent cardiopulmonary bypass and those who did not, in terms of I.Q. scores and neuropsychological tests. The study provides good news for school-aged children with less complex heart defects undergoing surgery.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·DateNov 10, 2008

Getting little sleep may be associated with risk of heart disease

A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that sleeping less than seven and a half hours per day is associated with future risk of heart disease. Patients with shorter sleep duration plus overnight increased blood pressure had a higher incidence of heart disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

Sexual intimacy and breast cancer survivors: New research

A new study by Indiana University found that young female breast cancer survivors experience significant problems related to sexual arousal, desire, and orgasm. Many reported vaginal dryness, genital pain, premature menopause, fatigue, and fertility issues, highlighting the need for research on strategies to address these challenges.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCancer Nursing·DateNov 10, 2008
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Study improves recovery for mothers with depression

A new therapy programme has been developed to treat depression in women in developing countries, improving recovery rates and reducing serious consequences. The programme, using community health workers, was tested in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and showed significant results.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 10, 2008

Antibiotic use increases at academic medical centers

Between 2002 and 2006, antibiotic use increased significantly at academic medical centers, driven by broader-spectrum agents and vancomycin. This trend is concerning, as it can lead to the development of drug-resistant bacteria, increasing illness, death, and healthcare costs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

Pollinator decline not reducing crop yields just yet

Despite pollinator decline, global crop yields have consistently grown at 1.5% per year since 1961 due to agricultural improvements. However, research detected warning signs of growing demand for pollinators and declining yield growth in highly dependent crops.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 10, 2008

New hope for HIV treatment: Cells exhausted from fighting HIV infection can be revitalized

Researchers have found a way to 'rescue' immune cells that are exhausted from fighting off HIV infection using the molecule Tim-3, which is present at high levels on poorly functional immune system cells. Blocking the activity of Tim-3 improved cell function and allowed them to rejoin the battle against HIV.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New study finds obese women more impulsive than other females

A new study by University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers found that obese women display significantly weaker impulse control than normal-weight women. The study's findings suggest that eating-related disinhibition may be a key factor in this difference.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalAppetite·DateNov 10, 2008

Long-term secondary prevention program may help reduce cardiovascular risks after heart attack

A long-term secondary prevention program lasting up to three years has been shown to reduce the risk of a second non-fatal heart attack and other cardiovascular events. The program, which includes individualized risk factor and lifestyle management, resulted in a significant decrease in cardiovascular death and non-fatal heart attacks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

Study confirms increased heart attack deaths in NYC ambulance diversions

Ambulance diversions from NYC emergency rooms are associated with increased heart attack deaths due to delayed treatment and longer wait times. The study found a significant association between time on diversion and increased mortality resulting from acute myocardial infarction.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateNov 10, 2008

Stroke patients soon may have fun, high-tech tool

Researchers at the University of Central Florida are developing a virtual reality program to help stroke survivors improve their range of motion. The program, which will track patients' progress, aims to make physical therapy exercises more engaging and enjoyable, encouraging patients to work harder and increase their mobility.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateNov 10, 2008
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

When a good nanoparticle goes bad

Nanoparticles were found to be better at increasing chemical reaction rates than others due to their unique properties. However, even the most effective nanoparticles can become ineffective over time through spontaneous degradation.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 10, 2008

Research hightlights, AAO-SOE Joint Meeting, Nov. 9 sessions

A study found that interleukin-6, a biochemical marker in the blood, is significantly higher in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and correlates with oxidative stress. Additionally, collagen crosslinking treatment has shown promising results in stabilizing keratoconus patients' vision.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 10, 2008

Eye conditions linked with obstructive sleep apnea

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified associations between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and various eye diseases, including primary open-angle glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma, flopsy eyelid syndrome, nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, and papilledema. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patients with OSA.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateNov 10, 2008
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

New small-scale generator produces alternating current by stretching zinc oxide wires

The new flexible charge pump generator can produce an oscillating output voltage of up to 45 millivolts, converting nearly seven percent of the mechanical energy applied into electricity. This advancement resolves key issues with previous generators, such as moisture infiltration and wear, enabling more robust designs.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 9, 2008

Mental health linked to stillbirth and newborn deaths

Women with serious mental illnesses are at least twice as likely to experience stillbirths or newborn deaths compared to those without such conditions. Research revealed that mothers with schizophrenia have a higher risk of stillbirth, while those with other psychotic illnesses face significant complications during childbirth.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateNov 9, 2008
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Flu shots may cut risk of blood clots forming in veins

Research suggests that flu vaccination can lower the risk of venous thrombotic embolism (VTE) in people with cardiovascular disease. The protective effect was more pronounced in those under 52 years old. Further studies are needed to confirm this relationship and explore underlying mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 9, 2008

T cell-based HIV vaccine candidate demonstrates positive results

A study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center demonstrates a T-cell-based HIV-1 vaccine strategy may be effective in fighting AIDS. The vaccine regimen induced potent immune responses, reducing viral replication and preventing AIDS development in monkeys.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

HIV's disguises no match for 'bionic assassins'

Researchers have engineered killer T-cells with a receptor that can recognize and destroy HIV-infected cells, regardless of the virus's disguise. This technology may lead to a powerful therapy for HIV treatment and could also be applied to other infectious agents.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 9, 2008

Engineered killer T cell recognizes HIV-1's lethal molecular disguises

Researchers have engineered T cells that can recognize HIV-1 strains that evade the immune system, a breakthrough with implications for treating patients with chronic infection. The engineered T cells respond vigorously to HIV, allowing fewer cells to control infection.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 9, 2008
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Yale researchers unravel mystery of brain aneurysms

A study published in Nature Genetics has identified three chromosome segments where common genetic variations can create significant risk for ruptured aneurysms, leading to strokes. The findings could lead to new screening tests and therapies to strengthen blood vessels in the brain.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 9, 2008

Cancer drugs my build and not tear down blood vessels

Researchers found that blocking VEGF levels in a tumor props up existing blood vessels, making them stronger and more normal. This makes the tumor more susceptible to chemotherapy drugs, offering a new strategy for cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

MP3 headphones interfere with implantable defibrillators, pacemakers

Researchers found that 14 out of 60 patients experienced detectable interference when MP3 headphones were placed near their implanted devices. Prolonged exposure to high magnetic fields can cause pacemakers to deliver signals without regard to the patient's heart rhythm, while defibrillators may temporarily deactivate.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 9, 2008

Simple brain mechanisms explain arbitrary human visual decisions

Scientists report that a simple decision-making task does not involve the frontal lobes, instead relying on the parietal lobe to process sensory information and control responses. This finding challenges the traditional view of human decision-making as willful acts, suggesting that many decisions may be driven by automatic processes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 9, 2008

Hispanics less likely to have repeat revascularizations 1 year after angioplasty

A study by the American Heart Association found that Hispanic patients were 57% less likely than Caucasian patients to undergo coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) one year after successful angioplasty. Hispanics also had a trend toward lower rates of overall repeat revascularization procedures, including stenting and bypass surgery.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 9, 2008

Annuals converted into perennials

Researchers have discovered that only two genes are necessary for converting annuals into perennials, allowing plants to store energy in specialized cells and continue growing for a long time. This breakthrough has significant implications for agriculture and the evolution of plant life strategies.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 9, 2008
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

AAO-SOE Joint Meeting Nov. 9 glaucoma research highlights

A study found a correlation between optic nerve damage in glaucoma patients and significant carotid artery narrowing, potentially increasing stroke risk. Additionally, a survey on religious beliefs and fasting reveals that adherence to faith-related taboos can impact patient compliance with ocular treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 9, 2008