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Science News for December 1, 2009


TacSat-4 spacecraft complete and awaiting launch

The TacSat-4 spacecraft has completed environmental and performance testing, awaiting launch. The mission provides near global coverage of Ultra High Frequency (UHF) channels for communications, data exfiltration, and Blue Force Tracking.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateDec 1, 2009

A closer look at the Hudson Canyon shows why the canyon is critical for fish

The discovery of massive methane pits in the Hudson Canyon has significant implications for the region's marine ecosystem. The pits, found by Rutgers University and NOAA researchers using a robotic underwater vehicle, are believed to be related to the dissolution of gas hydrates and could support a diverse range of fish species.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·DateDec 1, 2009

Nervy research: Researchers take initial look at ion channels in a model system

Scientists have observed ion channels within the surface membrane of cells for the first time, improving our understanding of how signals travel among neurons. This discovery may lead to a complete picture of how ion channels function and could have implications for future drug development.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature·DateDec 1, 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 forensic technique gives clues about sharks from bite damage

A new forensic technique can identify shark species by analyzing bite patterns, helping researchers understand the behavioral underpinnings of shark attacks. The method uses measured jaw circumference and tooth distance to distinguish between species like tiger sharks and bull sharks.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalMarine Biology·DateDec 1, 2009

MRI helps detect life-threatening pregnancy complication

A recent study found that MRI is highly accurate in detecting placenta accreta, a condition where the placenta attaches too deeply to the uterus. The condition can lead to severe bleeding and maternal death if not diagnosed early. With an accuracy rate of 90.1%, MRI has become a valuable tool in prenatal care.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 1, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Brown fat cells make 'spare tires' shrink

Scientists at the University of Bonn have discovered a way to turn on the 'natural heating system' in brown fat cells, which can lead to increased energy expenditure and reduced body weight. By activating this mechanism, it may be possible to fight obesity with fat.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Signaling·DateDec 1, 2009

Dessert on your mind? Your muscles may be getting the message

Researchers found that good taste and pleasant meals stimulate muscle glucose uptake and decrease blood glucose levels. Orexin is involved in the regulation of muscle glucose metabolism, suggesting a potential role in controlling feeding behavior and blood sugar levels.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 1, 2009

Clearing the way for detecting pulmonary embolism

Researchers found that a combination of single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and low-dose CT provided accurate diagnoses with high sensitivity and specificity. The study suggests that this technique may improve patient outcomes by reducing the mortality rate associated with untreated pulmonary embolism.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 1, 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.

Can heart disease treatments combat AMD?

A recent study found that low-dose aspirin may offer mild protection from AMD, reducing the risk by 18% in women who took the medication. However, statins did not show a significant impact on advanced AMD risk, with patients taking statins actually at a slightly higher risk of developing advanced disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateDec 1, 2009

Will copper keep us safe from the superbugs?

Researchers found that copper surfaces had significantly fewer live bacteria than conventional surfaces, with one study showing a 71% reduction. Copper-based disinfectants also showed effective antimicrobial properties, continuing to kill germs for the rest of the day.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·DateDec 1, 2009

Hospital price transparancy laws in California fall short, study finds

A new study found that hospital price transparency laws in California are ineffective, with only 28% of hospitals responding as required by state law. The research team received inaccurate or incomplete price quotes from most hospitals, which often exceeded the allowed prices under California law.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 1, 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.

Timing of surgery for knee injuries may not affect outcomes

A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that patients undergoing surgery within three weeks of a multiple-ligament knee injury have comparable outcomes to those who undergo delayed surgery. Early mobility is also associated with better outcomes than immobilization in patients treated within this timeframe.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateDec 1, 2009

Unified approach to premature infant care improves patient outcomes

A unified approach to caring for extremely premature infants in the first week of life resulted in improved patient outcomes, including a decrease in hospital stay duration. Infants treated using small baby guidelines showed higher survival rates without complications like bronchopulmonary dysplasia and severe intraventricular hemorrhage.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateDec 1, 2009

NIST researchers put a new spin on atomic musical chairs

Researchers at NIST and Naval Research Laboratory create a technique to selectively implant atoms in crystals, enabling study of electrical and magnetic properties on an atomic scale. This development is crucial for spintronics, electronic devices that utilize electron spin instead of charge for storing information.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 1, 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.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Yerkes researchers create first transgenic prairie voles

Researchers have successfully created the first transgenic prairie voles, allowing them to investigate the genetic mechanisms of social bonding and its impact on psychiatric disorders. This advancement may lead to new treatments for impairments in social behavior.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateDec 1, 2009

High urea levels in chronic kidney failure might be toxic after all

A team of researchers found that high levels of urea produce toxic molecules in fat cells, leading to insulin resistance and characteristics of end-stage kidney disease. Blocking the effects of high urea levels may improve quality of life and lifespan for individuals with chronic kidney failure.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2009

Aspirin, tylenol may decrease effectiveness of vaccines

University of Missouri researchers found that aspirin and Tylenol block enzymes that inhibit vaccines. This could lead to reduced antibody responses and decreased protection against infections.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 1, 2009

Oklahoma cancer study takes major step toward improved treatment

Researchers found a way to turn ineffective cancer drugs into effective fighters using their patented chemical compound, SHetA2. The compound tricks cancer cells into responding to new treatments and undergoing cell suicide without harming normal cells.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalGynecologic Oncology·DateDec 1, 2009
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Can cleft palate be healed before birth?

Researchers at USC School of Dentistry have successfully reversed a cleft palate in fetal mice by regulating signaling molecules. The study's findings suggest that close monitoring and regulation of the protein Shh during palate formation may one day allow for non-surgical reversal before birth.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalDevelopment·DateDec 1, 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.

How did flowering plants evolve to dominate Earth?

Early flowering plants gained a competitive advantage through efficient leaf hydraulic systems, increasing photosynthetic capacity. This evolutionary step was triggered by low atmospheric CO2 levels and led to their dominance of land ecosystems.

SourceWiley·JournalEcology Letters·DateDec 1, 2009

Why females live longer than males: is it due to the father's sperm?

Researchers found female mice created from two mothers but no father lived significantly longer than normal mice, living up to a third longer on average. The findings suggest that sperm genes may have a detrimental effect on lifespan in mammals.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateDec 1, 2009

Special ultrasound accurately identifies skin cancer

Researchers used high-frequency ultrasound with elastography to identify skin cancer with high accuracy, distinguishing between malignant and benign lesions by measuring their elasticity. This non-invasive procedure can aid physicians in treatment and reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies of benign skin lesions.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 1, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Enzyme replacement therapy improves outcomes in Fabry's disease

A five-year study shows enzyme replacement therapy reduces left ventricular mass index by around 10% and improves midwall fractional shortening in patients with baseline cardiac hypertrophy. The treatment also significantly improves average pain and quality of life scores.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 1, 2009

Careful diagnosis helps fracture patients put best foot forward

A new review article highlights the importance of detailed diagnosis for talus fractures, which are commonly misdiagnosed due to complex anatomy and subtle radiographic clues. By recognizing these injuries and providing targeted treatment, patients can avoid permanent disability and improve outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateDec 1, 2009

Tumor-attacking virus strikes with 'one-two punch'

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a tumor-attacking virus that kills brain-tumor cells and blocks the growth of new tumor blood vessels. The virus, called RAMBO, was tested in animal models and showed promise in treating aggressive brain cancer with a survival rate of 54 days.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateDec 1, 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.

Ethnic pride key to black teen mental health

A new study by Northwestern University found that ethnic pride is crucial for the mental well-being of young African-American adolescents. The research discovered that increased feelings of ethnic pride are associated with reduced depressive symptoms in both male and female students.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChild Development·DateDec 1, 2009
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.

Heart failure linked to gene variant affecting vitamin D activation

A study found that patients with a specific gene variant are twice as likely to develop congestive heart failure, suggesting a genetic link between vitamin D action and heart disease. The research analyzed the genetic profiles of 617 subjects and identified a critical enzyme associated with the development of congestive heart failure.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPharmacogenomics·DateDec 1, 2009

To keep muscles strong, the 'garbage' has to go

Researchers found that mice deficient in a gene required for autophagy develop muscle atrophy and weakening, resembling certain diseases. Maintaining normal autophagy levels is crucial to clear away damaged cells and prevent muscle weakness with age.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 1, 2009
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.

Preventing repeat strokes -- are survivors taking their medicine?

Despite increased availability of prescription antiplatelet medications, the overall use of blood-thinning agents among stroke survivors has plateaued. Aspirin remains the predominant agent used for secondary stroke prevention, with no improvements in antithrombotic agent usage over a 7-year period.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 1, 2009

Shape shifters: Researchers create new breed of antennas

Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a new breed of antennas that can be bent, stretched, cut and twisted without breaking. These shape-shifting antennas use an alloy that remains liquid at room temperature, allowing them to retain their mechanical properties and tune into different frequencies by stretching.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 1, 2009

Severe asymptomatic heart disease may accompany narrowing in leg arteries

A study found that patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and no symptoms of heart disease are at high risk for cardiovascular events. Asymptomatic coronary artery disease was detected in 24% of PAD patients through non-invasive imaging, highlighting the need for extensive cardiovascular risk factor management.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 1, 2009

Binge drinking youths find getting old a drag

A study by Dr. John Garry and Dr. Maria Lohan found that young men who perceive declining happiness with age are more likely to engage in risky health behaviors like binge drinking. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 citizens of Northern Ireland aged 15+, finding that just over half were categorized as binge drinkers.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateDec 1, 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.

White House rhetoric is important in forming foreign policy opinions

A new study by University of Missouri researchers found that well-informed citizens are less swayed by White House rhetoric, while the general public is more susceptible to manipulation. Simple and compelling language used by presidents can significantly increase public support for military actions overseas.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPolitical Research Quarterly·DateDec 1, 2009

Pleasant dietary habits are necessary for health

Research by Professor Yasuhiko Minokoshi and Dr. Tetsuya Shiuchi found that meals with sweet taste stimulation activate 'orexin' neurons, reducing blood glucose levels in mice. Pleasant eating habits may prevent hyperglycemia by activating orexin neurons.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 1, 2009

Investigators identify successful weight control strategies for adolescents

Researchers found that healthy behaviors such as eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and self-weighing were associated with successful weight loss. Unhealthy weight control behaviors, including laxatives and fasting, were not linked to weight loss in adolescents.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateDec 1, 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.

Marine aquaculture could feed growing world population

Marine aquaculture has the potential to meet global food demand as freshwater resources are limited and terrestrial agriculture struggles. Expanding marine aquaculture operations using low-on-the-food-chain organisms like plankton and algae can achieve sustainable growth.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateDec 1, 2009

Childhood lead exposure causes permanent brain damage

A study using fMRI revealed that adults exposed to lead as children incur permanent brain injury, with distinct areas of the brain affected differently. Lead exposure has been associated with diminished IQ, poor academic performance, and increased risk of criminal behavior.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 1, 2009

Investigators identify successful weight control strategies for adolescents

A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that adolescents who successfully lost weight reported using six or more healthy weight control behaviors, such as eating more fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly. In contrast, those who did not lose weight relied less on structured behavior stra...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateDec 1, 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.

Typhoon Nida's cloud tops dropping as it zigzags in wind shear

NASA's CloudSat satellite noticed a drop in Typhoon Nida's cloud tops from over 9 miles high to around 8 miles high, indicating less powerful thunderstorms and weakening winds. The storm has zigzagged between 18 and 20 degrees North Latitude, moving west, then east, and now back in a westward direction.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 1, 2009

New source discovered for the generation of nerve cells in the brain

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered a new source of nerve cell generation in the adult brain, specifically in the olfactory bulb. This discovery may lead to new therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer's disease, where nerve cell degeneration plays a crucial role.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 1, 2009

North Pole wolf e-mails locations to researchers

A U.S. Geological Survey scientist is using a satellite collar on a North Pole wolf named Brutus to learn about the Arctic wolves' behavior in winter. The collar collects and stores locations every day, which are then emailed to researchers, allowing them to track the wolf's movements and habitat use.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateDec 1, 2009

In CO2-rich environment, some ocean dwellers increase shell production

In a surprising finding, some marine organisms like crabs, shrimp, and lobsters build more shells when exposed to ocean acidification caused by elevated levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. This may be due to the increased availability of dissolved inorganic carbon, which is beneficial for their skeleton formation.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalGeology·DateDec 1, 2009

New safety concern related to antipsychotic treatment

Researchers found that antipsychotic medications increase levels of inflammatory markers, contributing to the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease in patients. The study highlights the need for monitoring cardiovascular risk markers in antipsychotic-treated patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 1, 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.

JCI online early table of contents: Dec. 1, 2009

High urea levels in chronic kidney failure have been found to be toxic, leading researchers to suggest a potential new treatment strategy. Antioxidant therapy was shown to restore insulin sensitivity in mice with end-stage kidney disease. Similarly, targeting the molecular link Mdm2 may help prevent progression of late-stage metastatic...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2009

Mammography may increase breast cancer risk in some high-risk women

A recent study suggests that mammography screening in young women with genetic or familial predisposition to breast cancer may increase their breast cancer risk. The study found that repeated exposure to low-dose radiation increases breast cancer risk among these women, particularly those under age 20 or with five or more exposures.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 1, 2009

Psychologists suggest parents should wait to teach toddlers self-control

Research suggests that pushing toddlers to develop self-control too early may hinder brain development. Toddlers rely on brute-force competition to learn social conventions like language acquisition. Their immature brains are better equipped for learning through trial and error, allowing them to pick up skills effortlessly.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateDec 1, 2009

Good stress response enhances recovery from surgery, Stanford study shows

Researchers found that patients with high immune response during surgery recovered faster and had better knee function. Men were more likely to mount the beneficial stress response, leading to full recovery. The study suggests simple blood tests could predict patient recovery months after surgery.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateDec 1, 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.

Yehezkel Ben-Ari, winner of the 2009 INSERM Grand Prix

Yehezkel Ben-Ari, founder of Inmed Mediterranean Institute of Neurobiology, receives the 2009 INSERM Grand Prix for his pioneering discoveries in brain maturation, epilepsy, and stroke. He is recognized for his contributions to fundamental, clinical, and therapeutic research.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·DateDec 1, 2009

Loneliness can be contagious

Researchers found that lonely people tend to share their loneliness with others, gradually moving to the fringes of social networks. As a result, these individuals become less connected and more isolated.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 1, 2009

Criteria based on CT imaging after chemotherapy may help predict survival

A study found that morphologic changes on CT scans after bevacizumab-containing chemotherapy can predict overall survival in patients with stage IV colorectal cancer. The changes, including tumor size reduction and unique structural alterations, were strongly correlated with pathologic response and improved survival.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 1, 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.

Fear of anxiety linked to depression in above-average worriers

Researchers found that anxiety sensitivity significantly predicted depression symptoms in above-average worriers. The fear of cognitive dyscontrol and publically observable anxiety symptoms specifically correlated with depression. Understanding this link may lead to new depression treatments by addressing anxiety sensitivity.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Anxiety Disorders·DateDec 1, 2009