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Science News Archive August 2009 - Page 3


Page 3 of 22

Counseling Outcome Research and Evaluation: New journal for 2010

Counseling Outcome Research and Evaluation (C.O.R.E.) will publish bi-annually, addressing topics such as treatment efficacy, clinical diagnosis, and program evaluation. The journal aims to promote the development and dissemination of knowledge on outcome research and program evaluation in counseling.

SourceSAGE·JournalCounseling Outcome Research and Evaluation·DateAug 28, 2009

Acoustic tweezers can position tiny objects

Researchers have developed acoustic tweezers that can position single cells or nanosized beads using sound waves, allowing for efficient manipulation without damaging live cells. The technology has significant advantages over existing methods in terms of versatility, miniaturization, and power consumption.

SourcePenn State·JournalLab on a Chip·DateAug 28, 2009
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.

Handwriting-based tool offers alternate lie detection method

Researchers at the University of Haifa have developed a handwriting-based tool that measures physical properties of handwriting to detect deception. The tool shows promise in replacing verbal-based methods such as polygraphs, providing greater accuracy and ease for law enforcement.

SourceWiley·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateAug 28, 2009

ORNL scientists hone technique to safeguard water supplies

Researchers have enhanced a technique using algae as sentinels to detect toxins in municipal water supplies, showing broader applications and real-world results. The technology can be applied across various environments, even when algae are starved for nutrients.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalWater Environment Research·DateAug 28, 2009

Ewen Callaway named 2009 APS Plant Pathology Journalism awardee

The American Phytopathological Society announced Ewen Callaway as the 2009 APS Plant Pathology Journalism Award winner. His article, 'The Green Menace,' discussed the citrus disease huanglongbing, which has devastated the citrus industry since its arrival in US soil in 2005.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·DateAug 28, 2009

Marine biomedicine researchers decode structure of promising sea compound

Marine biomedicine researchers have deciphered the structure of a naturally produced ocean-based compound hoiamide A, which offers a novel template for drug development. The findings suggest that hoiamide A may interact with neurons in different ways, potentially leading to therapeutic effects for diseases such as epilepsy and neurodeg...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateAug 28, 2009

Researchers find high-dose therapy for liver disease not effective

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found high-dose ursodeoxycholic acid to be detrimental in treating primary sclerosing cholangitis. The six-year trial showed that serious adverse events were more common in the high-dose group, highlighting the need for further research on better treatment options.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalHepatology·DateAug 28, 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.

Warped debris disks around stars are blowin' in the wind

A team led by John Debes at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center finds that a star's motion through interstellar gas can account for warped debris disks around stars. The fine dust particles are affected by the drag force from the gas, causing them to change their trajectory and creating unusual shapes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 2009

Hoover's pro-labor stance helped cause Great Depression, UCLA economist says

A UCLA economist concludes that President Herbert Hoover's pro-labor policies pushed the nation's GDP down by close to two-thirds over two years following the stock market crash of 1929. The findings suggest that the recession would have been significantly worse without these policies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Economic Theory·DateAug 28, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UF scientists construct 'off switch' for Parkinson therapy

Researchers have discovered a way to regulate gene therapy for Parkinson's disease by introducing an 'off switch' using the antibiotic doxycycline. This breakthrough addresses safety concerns and paves the way for safer treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateAug 28, 2009

Tropical Storm Danny stars in a GOES Satellite movie

NASA's GOES Project created a movie of Tropical Storm Danny from August 25-27, showcasing his formation and journey up the US East Coast. The storm made landfall with maximum sustained winds near 60 mph, and is expected to turn north.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 27, 2009

Radiologists, medical physicists work to make imaging procedures safer

Radiologists and medical physicists have implemented low-dose protocols and tracking systems to reduce cumulative ionizing radiation exposure. The Radiological Society of North America has launched initiatives to raise awareness of radiation risks and explore opportunities to improve patient safety through partnerships with the America...

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 27, 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.

The path to new antibiotics

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys have identified a key enzyme in bacteria that can be targeted to kill dangerous pathogens. Chemical compounds have been discovered to inhibit this enzyme, showing promise for developing new antibacterial agents.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateAug 27, 2009

Unique study isolates DNA from Linnaeus' botanical collections

A unique study has successfully isolated long DNA fragments from dried, pressed plant material collected in the 1700s by Linnaeus. The findings have significant implications for understanding the evolution of plant species and may allow for the creation of a living herbarium.

SourceUppsala University·JournalTaxon·DateAug 27, 2009

Variants in 3 genes account for most dog coat differences

A study identifies three genetic variants accounting for the wide range of dog coat textures, from poodles to beagles. The findings have implications for understanding complex human diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2009

Slowly slip-sliding faults don't cause earthquakes

New research from the University of Arizona found that slowly moving faults, like the Alto Tiberina in Italy, can help prevent large earthquakes. The study used geodesy to measure rock movements and revealed that the fault is actively slipping at a rate of approximately one-tenth of an inch per year.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeology·DateAug 27, 2009

Skin-disease patients show brain immunity to faces of disgust

Research found that psoriasis patients have weaker brain response to disgusted faces, indicating a potential coping strategy to protect against social stigma. The study suggests that this adaptation may also apply to other stigmatizing skin conditions like acne or scarring.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateAug 27, 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.

Prostate cancer: Racial disparity gap narrows, men diagnosed at younger age

A recent study found that the racial disparity gap in prostate cancer stage at diagnosis has decreased over time. More men were diagnosed with prostate cancer at an earlier age and stage in 2004-2005 compared to earlier years, according to data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 27, 2009

Clemson professor named American Chemistry Society Fellow

Melanie Cooper, a Clemson University professor, has been recognized as an American Chemical Society Fellow for her contributions to chemistry education and research. Her research focuses on developing effective ways for students to learn science, including evidence-driven curricula like Chemistry, Life, the Universe and Everything (CLUE).

SourceClemson University·DateAug 27, 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.

Scientists identify gene for resistance to parasitic 'witchweed'

Researchers at the University of Virginia have identified a gene in cowpea that confers resistance to Striga, a parasitic flowering plant that attacks the roots of host plants. The discovery is significant as it could help develop strategies for improving resistance to Striga in other affected crops.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2009

NIH grant advances Tay-Sachs disease gene therapy

A $3.5-million NIH grant will help advance a gene therapy for Tay-Sachs disease from animal tests to human clinical trials. The Boston-based consortium has successfully paired two genes in a single vector, which they believe will increase therapeutic efficiency and lower production costs.

SourceBoston College·DateAug 27, 2009

'Curtain twitching' skylarks keep track of strangers through their songs

Researchers found that skylark neighbours share similar dialects in their songs, allowing them to identify and reprimand threatening intruders. This complex communication system enables the birds to maintain social cohesion and defend their territories against potential threats.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateAug 27, 2009

Roflumilast treatment shows promise for some patients with COPD

A new class of anti-inflammatory drugs called phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors shows promise for improving lung function and reducing exacerbations in moderate-to-severe COPD patients. Roflumilast improved lung function by 48mL and reduced exacerbations by 17% compared to placebo, with more adverse events reported.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 27, 2009
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.

Beta-blockers and stroke -- new insights into their use for older people

Researchers found that lowering heart rate with Beta-blockers can increase central aortic pressures in older individuals with high blood pressure, leading to reduced stroke prevention. The study suggests that alternative treatments may be more effective in this population.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 27, 2009

U-Iowa improves delivery of cancer-fighting molecules

Researchers at University of Iowa have modified siRNA to be injectable into the bloodstream, targeting specific genes overexpressed in cancer cells. The new compound triggers tumor regression without affecting normal tissues.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 27, 2009

Researchers report gene associated with language, speech and reading disorders

A new candidate gene for Specific Language Impairment has been identified on Chromosome 6, associated with variability in language, speech, and reading abilities. The findings suggest multiple genes contribute to language impairment, overlapping strengths or deficiencies across speech, language, and reading.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateAug 27, 2009

Mice living in sandy hills quickly evolved lighter coloration

Deer mice living in Nebraska's Sand Hills rapidly adapted to their environment by evolving lighter coloration, providing better camouflage against visual predators. This genetic change arose from a single mutation in the Agouti gene, driven by natural selection favoring pale coloration.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2009
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Why Obama's dog has curly hair

Researchers from the University of Utah and NIH identified three genes controlling seven major types of dog coat, including curly hair. The study used data from Portuguese water dogs to understand complex human diseases caused by multiple genes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateAug 27, 2009

Studies show dramatic decline in rheumatoid vasculitis in US veterans

A study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin found a dramatic decline in rheumatoid vasculitis among US veterans between 2000 and 2006. The prevalence of RV decreased significantly, from 41 to 28 cases per 1,000 RA outpatients and from 32 to 15 cases per 1000 RA inpatients.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateAug 27, 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.

Scientists uncover solar cycle, stratosphere and ocean connections

Research reveals subtle links between solar cycles, stratospheres, and tropical Pacific Oceans, driving periodic weather patterns globally. The study predicts the intensity of climate phenomena like Indian monsoon and tropical Pacific rainfall years in advance.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2009

Cardiac arrest casualties form a valuable source of donor kidneys

Researchers found that retrieving kidneys from uncontrolled non-heart-beating donors after sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrests can lead to a 10% increase in transplantation rates. The procedure, which raises ethical concerns, has the potential to alleviate organ shortages.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateAug 27, 2009

Urine LAM-ELISA poor at diagnosing TB

A new diagnostic test, urine LAM-ELISA, was tested on 291 Tanzanian patients suspected of having TB and found to have a disappointing sensitivity of 50.7%. The specificity of the test was also low at 87.8%, raising concerns about its reliability as a standalone diagnostic tool.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Infectious Diseases·DateAug 27, 2009

Small rodents encourage the formation of scrubland in Spain

Researchers find that field mice base their diet on holm oak and pine seeds, leading to habitat deterioration and the expansion of scrubland. The study reveals a consistent pattern of seed predation by rodents across different habitats.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalPlant Ecology·DateAug 27, 2009
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

AGU journal highlights -- Aug. 27, 2009

Researchers predict global temperature will increase by 0.15 degrees Centigrade from 2009 to 2014 due to anthropogenic forcing and solar irradiance. The study suggests a recent ice age on Mars, with layered deposits indicating climate oscillations, and sheds light on human's role in global dimming through aerosol emissions.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 27, 2009

Feelings of hopelessness linked to stroke risk in healthy women

A study of 559 healthy women found a link between hopelessness and increased thickness of neck arteries, which can be a precursor to stroke. The researchers discovered that hopelessness was independently associated with cardiovascular disease risk in women without clinical symptoms of heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·DateAug 27, 2009

Predictive tool may help determine treatment of COPD patients

A new predictive tool, ADO index, improves upon the existing BODE index by providing a more accurate estimate of mortality risk. The updated index is easier to use and can help clinicians identify patients at moderate or high risk of mortality, guiding targeted treatment options.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 27, 2009
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

The mysterious glaciers that grew when Asia heated up

A team of researchers found that glaciers in the region advanced due to cooler temperatures created by increased cloud cover and reduced evaporation. The study provides valuable insights into how glaciers respond to climate change, enabling better forecasting of water supply changes in the coming decades.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalQuaternary Research·DateAug 27, 2009

Blood thinner causes stroke in some dialysis patients

A study found that warfarin may increase the risk of stroke in dialysis patients with abnormal heart rhythms. Patients on dialysis who take warfarin are at a higher risk of stroke, particularly those whose blood is not monitored for warfarin levels after treatment.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 27, 2009

Small fluctuations in solar activity, large influence on the climate

Small fluctuations in solar radiation have a significant impact on cloud formation and precipitation, with variations of just 0.1% affecting the Pacific Ocean's water temperature and precipitation patterns. This study demonstrates that understanding natural climatic variability is crucial for making reliable future climate scenarios.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2009

An intelligent system avoids forgetting things

Researchers developed an AI-powered system using RFID sensors and mobile devices to remind users of everyday tasks. The system recognizes user actions, assessing activities such as taking keys or leaving home, without modifying daily routines or requiring cameras or microphones.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateAug 27, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Milk drinking started around 7,500 years ago in central Europe

A new study by University College London scientists reveals that the ability to digest lactose first evolved in dairy farming communities in central Europe around 7,500 years ago. This genetic change enabled early Europeans to drink milk without getting sick, providing a survival advantage.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 27, 2009

Predicting cancer prognosis

Researchers developed a novel methodology to extract microRNAs from cancer tissues, identifying 17 new and 53 known miRNAs. These miRNAs were well-preserved in long-preserved tissue samples, leading to improved predictions of disease prognosis and treatment response.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateAug 27, 2009

Researchers identify new, cancer-causing role for protein

TRAF6 plays a key role in activating Akt, a signaling molecule associated with cancer growth. Ubiquitination of Akt is required for its activation and hyperactivation in mutant forms is linked to cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScience·DateAug 27, 2009

Collagen-deficient mice show signs of osteoarthritis

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that mice deficient in Type IX collagen develop osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease, leading to impaired physical abilities and increased pain sensitivity. The study provides valuable insights into the effects of collagen deficiency on musculoskeletal disorders.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateAug 27, 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.

Gene variation is 'major genetic determinant of psoriasis'

Researchers identify three genetic variations on chromosome 6 associated with psoriasis, with HLA-Cw*0602 being the strongest link. The study found that individuals with all three variants are nearly nine times more likely to develop the disease.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 27, 2009

New temperature reconstruction from Indo-Pacific warm pool

A new 2,000-year-long reconstruction of sea surface temperatures in the Indo-Pacific warm pool suggests temperatures may have been as warm during the Medieval Warm Period as they are today. This study contributes to scientists' efforts towards improving global temperature reconstructions.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature·DateAug 27, 2009