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Science News Archive August 2009 - Page 17


Page 17 of 22

Doctors' opinions not always welcome in life support decisions

Surrogates are divided on how much guidance they want from doctors when making end-of-life medical choices for critically ill patients. While a slight majority prefer doctor's advice, many feel burdened by guilt and value patient's values over physician input.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 10, 2009

Urine samples could be used to predict responses to drugs, say researchers

Researchers from Imperial College London and Pfizer Research and Development found that urine samples can be used to predict how individuals will respond to certain drugs. The study looked at acetaminophen levels in urine before and after consumption and found that compounds like para-cresol sulphate were indicators of drug metabolism.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2009

Metabolic bone disease in cirrhosis patients

Research in cirrhosis patients reveals low bone formation and increased resorption leading to fragile bones. The study highlights the importance of correcting factors such as inadequate sunlight exposure, reduced physical activity, and vitamin D deficiency to improve bone health.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateAug 10, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stanford professor sequences his entire genome at low cost, with small team

A Stanford professor has successfully sequenced his entire genome for under $50,000 and with a team of just two people. The breakthrough demonstrates that genome sequencing can be democratized, enabling anyone to access the information, which can lead to personalized medicine and better understanding of traits and health.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 10, 2009

NIAID media availability: Still searching for predictors of asthma attacks

Researchers found no significant correlations between laboratory test measurements and asthma exacerbations among study participants. A large, longitudinal study provided the most comprehensive analysis to date of factors thought to be useful in predicting asthma attacks.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateAug 10, 2009
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.

New light-emitting biomaterial could improve tumor imaging, study shows

A new material developed at the University of Virginia can visualize even minute levels of oxygen in tumors, which are associated with increased cancer aggressiveness. This technology has great promise for being able to perform measurements of tumor hypoxia cost-effectively and could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 10, 2009

How mice and humans differ immunologically

Researchers identified TLR9 expression patterns as a key factor in determining molecule toxicity between mice and humans. In mice, other immune cells expressing TLR9 were responsible for TNF-alpha production, leading to severe lung inflammation and toxicity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 10, 2009

Physicists make crystal/liquid interface visible for first time

Researchers have made the crystal/liquid interface visible for the first time using tiny plastic balls to model states of matter. The study reveals a narrow region known as the 'zone of confusion' where the boundary between solid and liquid states fluctuates rapidly, contradicting previous theories.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2009

STAT3 gene regulates cancer stem cells in brain cancer

Researchers found that STAT3 inhibits the growth and self-renewal of glioblastoma stem cells, suggesting a promising target for cancer therapy. The study demonstrates the potential of STAT3 inhibitors to stop tumor formation and offers a new approach to treating this devastating brain cancer.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalStem Cells·DateAug 10, 2009

Research examines stereotypes of immigrants to the United States

A survey conducted in Ohio found that Latin Americans were viewed most negatively by residents, with poor ratings on characteristics such as wealth and intelligence. In contrast, Asian immigrants received high marks for being self-sufficient and Europeans were seen as the most fitting in with American culture.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 10, 2009
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Young early stage ovarian cancer patients can preserve fertility

A new study published in the American Cancer Society's journal finds that young women with early-stage ovarian cancer can preserve future fertility by conserving at least one ovary or the uterus. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,800 patients and found those who conserved an ovary had similar survival rates for up to five years.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateAug 10, 2009

First black holes born starving

Recent simulations by astrophysicists reveal that the first black holes in the universe grew slowly and were deprived of gas, contradicting popular theories. The simulations suggest that these early black holes may have played a more complex role in the formation of supermassive black holes observed today.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 10, 2009

New gene linked to muscular dystrophy

Mutations in the PTRF gene have been found to cause a form of muscular dystrophy with generalized lipodystrophy. The disease is characterized by progressive skeletal muscle weakness and deficiency of caveolin-3 protein.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 10, 2009
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.

Traffic jam in brain causes schizophrenia symptoms

Researchers created a mouse model with low kalirin levels that developed schizophrenia symptoms as an adolescent, mimicking human delayed onset. The study suggests stimulating kalirin activity could help alleviate cognitive symptoms, offering new treatment direction.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2009

Nanoelectronic transistor combined with biological machine could lead to better electronics

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researchers have devised a versatile hybrid platform that uses lipid-coated nanowires to build prototype bionanoelectronic devices. The platform enhances biosensing and diagnostic tools, advances neural prosthetics such as cochlear implants, and could increase the efficiency of future computers.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2009

Hundreds of new species discovered in eastern Himalayas

A decade of research in the Eastern Himalayas has uncovered over 350 new species, including a prehistoric 100-million-year-old gecko and the world's smallest deer. Climate change threatens this biological treasure trove, putting cultural and biological diversity at risk.

SourceWorld Wildlife Fund·DateAug 10, 2009
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.

An HIV-blocking gel for women

Researchers at the University of Utah created a vaginal gel that turns semisolid in response to semen, trapping AIDS virus particles. The gel, designed to protect women from HIV infection, works by forming a microscopic mesh that blocks the virus from infecting vaginal cells.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 9, 2009

Tumor suppressor pulls double shift as reprogramming watchdog

A study by researchers at the Salk Institute has found that tumor suppressor p53 plays a crucial role in controlling somatic cell reprogramming. The study showed that p53 activation prevents cells from reverting back to a less specialized state, which could have implications for cancer development and pluripotent stem cell technology.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2009

Temp work strains employee mental health

Research shows that temporary workers are susceptible to declining mental health due to unstable employment. Contingent workers report more symptoms of depression and psychological distress than similarly employed workers in stable positions.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 9, 2009
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.

Mothers, but not fathers, follow their own moms' parenting practices

Researchers at Ohio State University found that mothers tend to follow their own mothers' parenting practices, such as spanking and affection, but fathers do not. The study also revealed a significant shift in parenting practices over two generations, with increased emphasis on reading and affection shown to children.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 9, 2009

What makes an accent in a foreign language lighter

Researchers at the University of Haifa discovered that greater empathy for native speakers can lighten accents in a second language. The study also found a link between accent heaviness and sociopolitical position, particularly among Arabic speakers who hold differing sentiments towards the Hebrew-speaking majority group.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalInternational Journal of Bilingualism·DateAug 9, 2009

Study: Higher education playing bigger role in gender wage gap

A new study by Ohio State University found that college major is a significant factor contributing to the ongoing gender wage gap. Women are often segregated into majors that lead to lower-paying careers, exacerbating the existing income inequality. The research suggests that this phenomenon has become more pronounced over time.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 9, 2009
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Unlikely genetic suspect implicated in common brain defect

The study uncovered the unlikely genetic suspect, FOXC1, which critically contributes to Dandy-Walker malformation, a brain defect causing mental retardation and motor delays. The discovery provides new mechanisms and potentially improves treatment for the disorder, offering insights into embryonic brain development.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 9, 2009

Mutations in gene linked to ciliopathies

Researchers found that mutations in the INPP5E gene lead to impaired balance, mental retardation, and polycystic kidney disease. The study suggests that targeting the phosphatylinositol pathway with existing drugs may help treat ciliopathies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 9, 2009

Radiotherapy could reduce cognitive function in patients with common brain tumors

Patients who received radiotherapy for low-grade glioma brain tumors showed significant cognitive decline compared to those who did not receive treatment. The study found that attentional functioning, executive functioning, and information processing speed were lower in patients given radiotherapy. Deferring treatment or using modern r...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateAug 9, 2009

Female supervisors more susceptible to workplace sexual harassment

A large-scale longitudinal study found that nearly fifty percent of women supervisors reported sexual harassment in the workplace, compared to only one-third of women who do not supervise others. The study also revealed that male co-workers and clients used harassment as a means of control against women in power.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 8, 2009
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Marriage, family on the decline for highly educated black women

Research at the American Sociological Association reveals that highly educated black women are less likely to get married and have children compared to their white counterparts. The gap in marriage rates has grown over the decades, with 45% of black women born between 1955-1960 being childless by age 45.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 8, 2009

Father-son team says positive gains can be made in 'psychological wealth'

Research by the American Psychological Association found that while money may improve life's comfort level, it doesn't necessarily contribute to happiness or life's pleasant moments. A focus on psychological wealth can help people adapt to good and bad events, providing a more sustainable path to happiness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 8, 2009
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Parents can help stop the obesity epidemic, says psychologist

Parents play a crucial role in preventing childhood obesity, which has quadrupled over the last 40 years. By teaching healthy eating habits and encouraging physical activity, parents can significantly reduce their child's risk of developing weight-related problems.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 8, 2009

A double-threat to teen health

A recent study by Temple researchers found that heavy drinking is more likely to lead to heavy smoking among adolescents, highlighting the need for a multi-pronged approach to education and intervention. The study's findings emphasize the importance of addressing both topics together to combat this growing health risk.

SourceTemple University·DateAug 8, 2009
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.

Electronic health records help cardiac patients remain healthy

A randomized study found that a program combining electronic health records and proactive patient outreach kept lipid and blood pressure levels at controlled, healthy levels for two years after discharge. The study's results suggest that using technology can help support patients in maintaining treatment goals and medication adherence.

SourceGolinHarris International·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateAug 7, 2009

Advances in lung cancer research announced at conference

Researchers from TGen and Scottsdale Healthcare presented two significant advances in treating lung cancer, including a potential method to prevent brain metastasis. A drug called TH-302 showed promising results in clinical trials, achieving stable disease or better in 75% of patients with small cell lung cancer.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateAug 7, 2009
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Navigating in the ocean of molecules

A new computer program called Scaffold Hunter helps researchers identify potential active agents for cancer and malaria treatment by navigating the vast ocean of molecules. The program generates maps of chemically-related structures and links them to biological activity, identifying promising candidates.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 7, 2009

Guided care reduces cost of health care for older persons with chronic conditions

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that guided care patients spent 24% fewer hospital days and 37% fewer skilled nursing facility days compared to usual care. Guided Care programs could save Medicare over $15 billion every year, according to the study.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateAug 7, 2009
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

How to make negative services less unpleasant for consumers

A study found that women's stress levels increased when they believed in mammography's efficacy, while those coming in for diagnostic tests felt less stress as their belief grew. Healthcare providers should consider patient stage and tailor services to reduce stress.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateAug 7, 2009

The hepatitis healing power of blueberry leaves

A chemical found in blueberry leaves has shown a strong effect in blocking the replication of the Hepatitis C virus, which affects 200 million people worldwide. The compound, proanthocyanidin, is similar to chemicals found in grapes and wine and is considered safe as a dietary supplement.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 7, 2009

NOAA and partners to survey ships sunk off North Carolina in World War II

NOAA is conducting a three-week research expedition to study World War II shipwrecks sunk in 1942 off the coast of North Carolina. The expedition aims to document the condition of these vessels and preserve their historic sites, which serve as 'time capsules from one of the darkest times in the nation's history.'

SourceNOAA Headquarters·DateAug 7, 2009

Bladder cells feel stretch

Bladder urothelial cells sense fullness of urine through TRPV4 protein activation, which triggers Ca2+ influx and ATP release. The discovery may lead to treatment of bladder disorders such as overactive bladder and pollakiuria.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 7, 2009
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Cost-effectiveness of cetuximab in metastatic colorectal cancer

A study found that cetuximab was not cost-effective for all patients with advanced colorectal cancer. However, it showed promise when used in patients whose tumors had wild-type KRAS genes. The authors suggest restricting cetuximab treatment to these patients to save costs.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 7, 2009

Conaway Lab uncovers function of potential cancer-causing gene product

Researchers discovered Alc1's chromatin remodeling enzyme activity is strongly activated by NAD and Parp1. This suggests a mechanism for Parp1 and poly(ADP-ribose) to function in transcriptional regulation, DNA repair, and DNA replication

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2009

Planning English football fixtures

Professor Graham Kendall's software programme automatically plans Christmas and New Year fixtures for 92 teams, considering guidelines to ease policing and transport pressure. The algorithm prevents local derbies, ensures balanced match schedules, and limits London clubs' home games.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateAug 7, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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