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Science News for February 26, 2009


Society of Interventional Radiology hosts 34th annual scientific meeting

The Society of Interventional Radiology will present research on treatments for kidney, prostate, bone cancer, herniated disks, and more at its 34th Annual Scientific Meeting. The meeting will showcase innovative interventional radiology studies and treatments.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Lab tests show two-drug combination effective against drug-resistant TB bacteria

Scientists have found that combining FDA-approved drugs meropenem and clavulanate is effective in killing laboratory-grown strains of Mtb, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment option for people infected with XDR TB, a rare but deadly form of multidrug-resistant TB.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A worm-and-mouse tale: B cells deserve more respect

Scientists studied how mice fight off intestinal worm infections to discover the immune system's versatility. They found that B cells produce cytokines, presenting proteins from invaders to T cells, which are crucial for a successful response.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalImmunity·DateFeb 26, 2009

Alzheimer's-associated plaques may have impact throughout the brain

Research reveals that amyloid plaques may increase astrocyte activity throughout the brain, affecting neuronal function and potentially offering new therapeutic targets. The study uses advanced imaging techniques to demonstrate synchronized calcium wave transmission across astrocytes in plaque-bearing mice.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

New Zealand breeding program creates new red raspberry variety

A new red raspberry cultivar, 'Moutere', has been developed in a planned breeding program at The New Zealand Institute of Plant and Food Research Limited. This variety is characterized by high yields of large, uniform size, bright red berries suitable for early season consumption.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateFeb 26, 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.

Muscling in on type 2 diabetes

A new study suggests that high levels of myostatin produced by muscle tissue in extremely obese individuals may contribute to the development of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Muscle loss is a key indicator of this transition, and understanding its role in metabolism is crucial for finding effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalDiabetes·DateFeb 26, 2009

Study finds hemlock trees dying rapidly, affecting forest carbon cycle

New research finds hemlock woolly adelgid is killing hemlock trees faster than expected, altering the carbon cycle of these forests. The study suggests that infrequent frigid winter temperatures may not be enough to suppress adelgid populations, leading to rapid decline and mortality.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalEcosystems·DateFeb 26, 2009

New tool for genome-wide association studies

Researchers developed AssociationViewer to analyze genetic differences and uncover new genetic markers for diseases. The software displays SNPs on a large scale, enabling scientists to visualize significant variations in the genomic context.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalBioinformatics·DateFeb 26, 2009

Researchers identify ALS gene mutation

A new gene mutation has been identified as a common cause of inherited ALS, affecting motor neurons in the central nervous system. This discovery is part of a national study led by Northwestern University, aiming to understand the triggers of motor neuron death and develop new treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Team-based diabetes care fetches more value for dollar

A recent study found that team-based diabetes care improves health outcomes for Medicaid patients, including significant reductions in systolic blood pressure, body mass index, and hemoglobin A1C. However, the study suggests that this approach does not result in lower treatment costs under Medicare and Medicaid.

SourcePenn State·JournalDiabetes Care·DateFeb 26, 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.

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern outline best treatments for post-burn itching

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern recommend a hierarchy of treatment strategies to alleviate chronic itching caused by burn scars. Topical creams and ointments are often effective, while oral antihistamines may be necessary for more severe cases. Other non-medicinal treatments like lasers and massage can also provide relief.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Burn Care & Research·DateFeb 26, 2009

'Dark cells' of living retina imaged for the first time

Researchers have imaged the nearly invisible layer of retinal pigment epithelial cells in a living eye, which could help diagnose macular degeneration at an early stage. This breakthrough technique uses fluorescent chemicals produced by the cells to detect potential disease before symptoms appear.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateFeb 26, 2009

New tool guides doctors to save cancer patients' fertility

A new guide from Northwestern University helps doctors navigate fertility preservation strategies for cancer patients. The guide aims to increase awareness and improve treatment options for adolescents and younger adults facing cancer diagnosis.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2009

Flu virus foiled again

A recent study has identified a common attachment site on influenza A virus subtypes that can be targeted to develop a universal flu vaccine. This breakthrough discovery was made by researchers at The Scripps Research Institute and provides a blueprint for the development of new antiviral drugs.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

An impossible alloy now possible

Researchers at Uppsala University have successfully formed a substitutional alloy between Cerium and Aluminium under high pressure, defying previous limitations on element compatibility. The discovery opens up possibilities for creating new alloys with unique mechanical, electronic, and magnetic properties.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 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.

CO2 drop and global cooling caused Antarctic glacier to form

A team of Yale scientists has discovered that a significant drop in CO2 levels triggered the rapid formation of massive ice sheets in Antarctica around 34 million years ago. The findings refute previous theories and suggest that a decline in greenhouse gases played a crucial role in shaping the climate during this period.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

New gene-searching method uncovers possible new targets for Crohn's disease drugs

Researchers have discovered new genes involved in Crohn's disease using a novel approach that combines statistical tools and automated gene-hunting techniques. The study identified genes on the same biological pathways as those already known to be relevant to the biology of Crohn's disease.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 26, 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.

Daytime sleepiness provides red flag for cardiovascular disease

A French study found that healthy elderly people who report feeling sleepy during the day have a significantly higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The Three City study found a 49% relative risk increase of cardiovascular death compared to those who do not report sleepiness.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalStroke·DateFeb 26, 2009

This grass is still greener

A study by Clemson University researchers found that creeping bentgrass on golf putting greens can recover from winter damage caused by foot and equipment traffic. The study suggests that full recovery should be expected by summer, allowing course managers to minimize lost revenue and extend play during the winter months.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Statins lower stroke severity, improve recovery

Mayo Clinic researchers found that statin use reduced stroke severity and improved outcomes, even in patients with ideal cholesterol levels. The study suggests benefits beyond lipid lowering, including plaque stabilization and anti-inflammatory effects.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateFeb 26, 2009

Maryland takes national lead to preserve foreign language assets

The state of Maryland is uniquely positioned to support the nation's foreign language needs by tapping into its abundant pool of well-educated, bilingual speakers. The task force recommends harnessing the skills of first, second, and third-generation Americans to recruit teachers and translators.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateFeb 26, 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.

Is HIV testing during labor feasible?

Research in Cameroon reveals that 88.3% of women are willing to accept HIV testing during labor, leading to a higher rate of detected infections compared to previously estimated rates. The study recommends an opt-out approach for HIV testing during labor to increase the number of mother-infant pairs receiving appropriate treatment.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateFeb 26, 2009

Color test enhances tomato analyzer software

A new tool called Color Test (CT) was implemented in the Tomato Analyzer (TA) software to analyze color in fruits and vegetables. The study found that CT accurately captured and described characteristic colors for various crops, including tomatoes and strawberries with nonuniform pigmentation.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateFeb 26, 2009

Antioxidants in Midwestern black raspberries influenced by production site

A study published in HortScience found that Midwestern black raspberry cultivars harvested from different production sites exhibit varying levels of antioxidants. The research suggests that fruit ripeness at harvest and regional differences in soil temperatures may contribute to these variations.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

U of T psychologists shed light on origins of morality

A study by U of T psychologists reveals a connection between moral disgust and primitive emotions related to poison and disease. The research found that people display similar facial movements in response to both moral and primitive forms of disgust.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 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.

Einstein scientists receive $10 million NIH grant

The Einstein consortium will investigate two types of autophagy in liver and brain function under normal and stressful conditions. They aim to understand how impaired autophagy contributes to aging-related declines in organ function, immunity, and cognitive function.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2009

Supports Intensity Scale is effective for identifying needs in people with intellectual disability

The Supports Intensity Scale is a planning tool that assesses individual needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in 85 life areas. A new study found SIS to be effective in predicting funding needs, providing a unique opportunity for services and funding decisions to be based on person-centered goals.

SourceAmerican Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities·JournalAmerican Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateFeb 26, 2009

Biodegradable mulch films on the horizon

Researchers found biodegradable mulch films to be effective in controlling weeds and diseases in tomato crops, outperforming traditional plastic mulch in some aspects. However, more research is needed to fully break down the material and reduce costs.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Georgia goes bananas

Researchers in a study published in HortTechnology identified two high-quality banana cultivars suitable for commercial production in southern Georgia: 'Manzano' and '1780'. These cultivars can produce over six suckers per plant, generating a potential income of over $60 per plant.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 26, 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.

Do doodle: Research shows doodling can help memory recall

Research shows doodling while listening can significantly improve memory recall, with participants recalling an average of 7.5 names of people and places compared to 5.8 non-doodlers. Doodling helps maintain focus on the main task without affecting performance.

SourceWiley·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Long-term study of orchard ground cover management systems

A 10-year study on orchard ground cover management systems found substantial differences in root growth, turnover, and distribution among different GMS treatments. Hardwood bark mulch and post-emergence herbicide treatments produced more tree growth and higher yields than others.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Science internships attract students to research careers

A model internship program at Texas A&M University–Kingsville Citrus Center attracted undergraduate students to science careers, with over 60 students provided with internships and 20 entering graduate schools. The program addressed access barriers for Hispanic Americans, who are an untapped resource of talent in the US scientific rese...

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Proepithelin encourages cell growth and migration in prostate cancer

Researchers identified proepithelin as a protein that encourages cell growth and migration in prostate cancer cells, especially androgen-independent ones. Proepithelin overexpression may serve as a clinical marker for prostate cancer diagnosis and a therapeutic target.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 26, 2009

US shiitake market mushrooming

The US shiitake market is experiencing significant growth, driven by consumer demand for nutritious mushrooms. Shiitake are high in potassium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc, making them an attractive crop for environmentally friendly growers.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 26, 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.

1.5 million-year-old fossil humans walked on modern feet

The Ileret footprints, found in Kenya, display human-like arch and short toes associated with an upright bipedal stance. The prints are attributed to Homo ergaster or early Homo erectus, a hominid with body proportions similar to modern humans.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Diverse skills, personalities aid top management teams -- up to a point

Research by Christophe Boone and Walter Hendriks found that IT firms with diverse expertise and work experience tend to be more effective in managing organizations. In contrast, personality diversity hinders firm performance. The study suggests using carefully designed personnel selection techniques to screen for knowledge and experience.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateFeb 26, 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.

Economic research receives further funding boost

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) has awarded £16.5m in funding to three new Centres of Excellence, with a focus on the economic wellbeing of the UK. The centres will conduct research on globalisation, macro-economic growth, and the impact of immigration on growth and wellbeing.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateFeb 26, 2009

Second, more realistic estimate can reduce planning and purchasing errors

Researchers at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and the Wisconsin School of Business found that people are consistently overly optimistic when predicting future behavior. By asking individuals to make two sets of predictions - one ideal and one realistic - participants reported more accurate estimates and improved decision-ma...

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateFeb 26, 2009

Study identifies new gene associated with ALS

Researchers identified a novel gene, FUS/TLS, associated with inherited amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the fourth gene implicated in familial forms of the disease. Mutations in this gene lead to abnormal protein deposits in motor neurons and are linked to varying inheritance patterns and severity.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 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.

New research offers guidance for improving primary grade writing instruction

New research from Vanderbilt University provides effective writing strategies for teachers to improve student writers, focusing on planning, revising, and setting clear goals. The studies identify recommendations to boost motivation, incorporate computers into the curriculum, and enhance teacher preparation.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Study: Soybean oil reduces carbon footprint in swine barns

Soybean oil has been found to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 20% in methane emissions and 19% in carbon dioxide emissions when sprayed inside swine finishing barns. The study, conducted at a northern Missouri farm, also showed a significant reduction in particulate matter.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateFeb 26, 2009

Spun-sugar fibers spawn sweet technique for nerve repair

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a novel technique using spun-sugar filaments to create synthetic tubes that mimic natural nerves. The scaffolds can promote nerve regeneration by acting as bridges between severed nerves, and may also be used to repair blood vessels damaged by disease.

SourcePurdue University·JournalLangmuir·DateFeb 26, 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.

New discovery gives tuberculosis vaccine a shot in the arm

A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that interferon can improve the effectiveness of the current tuberculosis vaccine by enhancing dendritic cell function. The research found that type I interferon stimulated dendritic cells to produce a stronger immune response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateFeb 26, 2009

A little bit of spit reveals a lot about what lives in your mouth

A global survey of salivary microbes found that the oral microbiome diversity among individuals is similar to that among people from different parts of the world. The study, led by Dr. Mark Stoneking, analyzed bacterial gene sequences from saliva samples from 120 healthy subjects across six geographic areas and compared them with a dat...

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 26, 2009

Modern lifestyle prevents tooth decay

Research reviews scientific evidence on tooth decay, concluding that good oral hygiene and fluoride toothpaste practices override the effects of food alone. Lifestyle factors such as regular brushing and dental health education are essential in preventing tooth decay.

SourceSugar Nutrition UK·JournalObesity Reviews·DateFeb 26, 2009
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.

Desert ants smell their way home

Research by Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology reveals that desert ants, like Cataglyphis fortis, utilize a combination of visual landmarks and unique scent signatures to guide them back to their nests. This groundbreaking study challenges the long-held notion that these ants rely solely on self-generated pheromone trails.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Analysis of fresh strawberries reveals consumer preferences

A recent study reveals that consumer preferences for fresh strawberries are linked to a complex balance of sweetness, aroma, texture, and appearance. The research found that certain strawberry cultivars, such as 'Rubygem' and 'Sugarbaby', were favored by panelists due to their high flavor and sweetness ratings.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateFeb 26, 2009

Cell microenvironments hold key to future stem cell therapies

Scientists have created unique microenvironment microarrays that reveal how adult stem and progenitor cells develop in a woman's breast. They found that the ultimate fate of these cells depends on signals from multiple microenvironments, suggesting a promising pathway for beneficial therapies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalIntegrative Biology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Drug improves mobility for some MS patients

A Phase 3 clinical trial found that fampridine improves walking ability in some individuals with multiple sclerosis, with 34.8% of participants experiencing a significant increase in walking speed. The study suggests that fampridine could represent an important new treatment for MS-related mobility issues.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 26, 2009

Fampridine improves walking ability in some patients with multiple sclerosis

A Phase III study found that fampridine improved walking speed and leg strength in patients with multiple sclerosis. The drug also showed promise in reducing fatigue and improving endurance. However, adverse events were reported in some patients, highlighting the need for further research on its treatment profile.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 26, 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.

Scientists discover why teeth form in a single row

Researchers uncover how opposing genetic forces determine the correct pattern of tooth formation in mammals, revealing a potential pathway for tooth regeneration and combating birth defects. The study's findings suggest that careful regulation of competing pro- and anti-tooth initiation signals controls the sequence of tooth development.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Busy Bs: Lymphocyte uses multiple mechanisms to shape immune response

Research shows B cells produce critical regulatory chemicals called cytokines and amplify T cell dependent immune responses to protect against intestinal parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus. B cells also promote the production and long-term maintenance of essential T helper 2 cells, which are crucial for protection from this pathogen.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateFeb 26, 2009

Antibiotic combination defeats extensively drug-resistant TB

Scientists have found a two-drug combination that inhibits the growth of susceptible laboratory strains and 13 XDR-TB strains, offering a new hope for treating this deadly form of tuberculosis. The drugs work together to target a bacterial enzyme, β-lactamase, which shields TB bacteria from antibiotics.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Effective mentoring critical to HIV/AIDS research efforts

The UCSF-GIVI CFAR's mentoring program uses innovative strategies like 'trans' mentoring to support early-career investigators. The program aims to retain and optimize productivity of these researchers, addressing concerns about lack of access to funding and support for clinician scientists.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 26, 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.

Prehistoric global cooling caused by CO2, research finds

A team of researchers found evidence of widespread cooling in Antarctica around 35 million years ago, which was caused by a significant drop in greenhouse gases, particularly CO2. The study used computer modeling and temperature proxies to determine the cause of the cooling.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

U of I study shows benefits of hormone found in fat tissue

A University of Illinois study has found that a hormone present in fat tissue plays a key role in regulating the immune system and aiding recovery from hypoxia. Leptin triggers an increase in anti-inflammatory molecules, leading to faster recovery times in obese mice.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEndocrinology·DateFeb 26, 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.

Houseplants increase quality of life for retirement community residents

A study by Claudia C. Collins and Angela M. O'Callaghan found that caring for houseplants can have positive effects on residents' happiness and overall sense of well-being. The 4-week study involved interactive horticulture classes, resulting in improved mastery, self-rated health and a general feeling of success.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 26, 2009