Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 5, 2009


Scientists can predict nano drug outcome

Researchers used contrast agents in liposomes to determine if they could breach breast tumors. Tumors with better images of the contrast agents showed better therapeutic results when treated with a cancer drug called liposomal doxorubicin.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalRadiology·DateFeb 5, 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.

Rural areas able to increase screening capacity for colorectal cancer

A study found that rural physicians in Arizona estimated they could increase their endoscopic procedures by 53.1%, while urban physicians estimated an additional 35.7% with improved compensation. The potential increase is attributed to the growing population of older individuals moving to warmer climates.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateFeb 5, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Inner workings of photosynthesis revealed by powerful new laser technique

A new laser-based technique has unraveled some of the inner workings of photosynthesis by capturing instantaneous images of energy transport between electrons in molecules. This allows scientists to gain a deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms involved, which is crucial for harnessing this process as an alternative energy source.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 5, 2009

Psychological impact found in adolescents with kidney transplants

A study reveals that adolescents who undergo kidney transplants have a significantly higher prevalence of psychiatric conditions, including depression, phobia, and ADHD. They also experience educational impairment and social isolation. The study highlights the need for routine screening and support to address these challenges.

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Transplantation·DateFeb 5, 2009

Multi-teraflop computer system targets large-scale discovery projects

The system will enable researchers from seven disciplines to perform virtual experiments and address open problems in their fields, including infectious disease dynamics, material development, and human interactions. The instrument is expected to promote technology transfer and enhance the diversity of computational science talent.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 5, 2009

Constant compressions critical to CPR

Researchers found that every second of compression pause reduces the likelihood of successful return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) by 1%. Effective CPR requires minimal interruptions, with powerful chest compressions being crucial.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2009

Wolf in dog's clothing? Stanford study reveals twist in fur color

A Stanford study finds that dogs that bred with wolves thousands of years ago passed on a genetic mutation for dark coat color to their wild ancestors. This mutation is now found in nearly exclusive in North America's black wolf population, which has a selective advantage over lighter-colored wolves in forested areas.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 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.

Safety guide launched for new 3-D dental scans

The European Academy of Dental and Maxillofacial Radiology has established 20 'Basic Principles' for safe use of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in dentistry. The guidelines cover areas such as justification, optimization, and training to protect patients from excessive radiation.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateFeb 5, 2009

Are we selling personalized medicine before its time?

A study published in PLoS Genetics found that genetic screening for diseases like cancer and heart disease may not accurately predict individual risk due to limited genetic variants associated with each condition. This limits the effectiveness of personalized genetic testing currently offered by companies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 5, 2009

Mutant rats resist warfarin

Researchers identified eighteen new genetic changes in rats from four continents that enable resistance to warfarin. VKORC1 gene mutations may cause heritable resistance by preventing coumarin derivatives from interfering with the reductase enzyme activity.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Genetics·DateFeb 5, 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.

Rapidly evolving gene contributes to origin of species

A rapidly evolving gene contributes to the origin of new species by driving an evolutionary arms race inside cells. The Nup160 and Nup96 genes, which code for gatekeepers of a cell's nucleus, have become incompatible between closely related fruit fly species.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2009

Sea level rise could be worse than anticipated

A new study published in Science suggests that a collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet could lead to significantly higher sea level rise than currently projected, with devastating effects on coastal areas and global sea levels. The research takes into account various forces, including gravity, changes in the Earth's rotation, and la...

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2009

Columbia research shows novel benefits of fatty acids in arteries

A Columbia University study found that a diet rich in fish oils can prevent fat accumulation in arteries and lower cholesterol levels. The researchers discovered that omega-3 fatty acids inhibit the entry of 'bad' cholesterol into arteries, providing new insights into heart health benefits.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateFeb 5, 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.

Building trust, increasing awareness among minorities

A study by Michigan State University found that higher medical mistrust among minority women led to late breast cancer screening. The AACR is working to address these issues through research and education. Recruiting diverse patients into clinical trials also poses challenges, with incentives often not effective.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateFeb 5, 2009

'Sister' factors promote survival of blood-system stem cells

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified two critical genes, Scl and Lyl1, that work together to maintain a pool of hematopoietic stem cells. These 'sister' genes are essential for the survival and function of blood-system stem cells, and their dysfunction can lead to severe consequences.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 5, 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.

Nanotube's 'tapestry' controls its growth

Carbon nanotubes grow through self-assembly forming a 'tapestry' of twisting threads, where each thread's length determines the tube's growth rate. The research reveals a direct relationship between a nanotube's chiral angle and its growth speed.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2009

Engineering technology pinpoints earliest signs of animal life

Researchers have recorded the earliest evidence of animal life using Hydropyrolysis technology, dating fossil steroids 635-750 million years old. This discovery suggests that simple multicellular animals existed in shallow waters before the Cambrian explosion.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 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 nonsense in our genes

A study by the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute suggests that around 1 in 200 human genes may be unnecessary for human health. The researchers found that single-letter changes in genetic code can disrupt proteins, leading to variations that are either beneficial or have little consequence.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 5, 2009

Black wolves: The first genetically modified predators?

A new study reveals that black wolves, the first genetically modified predators, have adapted to changing environments thanks to human dog breeding. The trait, which originated from domesticated dogs, has proven valuable for wolf populations as their arctic habitats shrink.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2009

Alternative and complementary medicine should have role in new era of health care reform

The article highlights the importance of alternative and complementary medicine (CAM) in healthcare reform, advocating for universal coverage and evidence-based methods. CAM encourages a holistic view of health, promoting whole-systems approaches and multifactorial integrative therapies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateFeb 5, 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.

Biologists solve mystery of black wolves

Researchers found that a novel mutated variant of a gene in dogs is responsible for the black coat color in wolves, transferred through matings. The discovery suggests that natural selection has increased the frequency of black coat color in wolf populations across North America.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2009

Infant galaxies -- small and hyperactive

In a groundbreaking study, scientists have discovered that stars were forming at an incredible rate in the core region of an infant galaxy. With a diameter of just 4000 light-years, the star-forming core of J1148+5251 is incredibly productive and reaches its physical limit.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 2009

Imaging for low-back pain without serious underlying conditions does not improve clinical outcomes

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found no significant differences between immediate imaging and usual clinical care for patients with acute or sub-acute low-back pain. The authors recommend refraining from routine imaging unless serious underlying conditions are suspected, to reduce unnecessary tests and improve patient ...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 5, 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.

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a wise investment

Chronic stress can lead to neglected oral hygiene habits, increasing the risk of periodontal disease. Regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help maintain healthy teeth and gums, reducing stress's negative impact on overall health and potentially lowering healthcare expenses.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateFeb 5, 2009

Alcohol adverts attract the young

A systematic review of over 13,000 participants found that exposure to alcohol adverts and product placements increases drinking behavior in young people. The study suggests that counter-advertising and social marketing techniques may be effective prevention options for limiting alcohol problems in young people.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 5, 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.

New equation of state of seawater

Scientists have developed a new equation of state for seawater based on Absolute Salinity, which is expected to provide more accurate thermodynamic calculations. The new approach aims to improve the understanding of seawater's properties and its role in the global heat engine.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateFeb 5, 2009

NRL researchers control the spin of semiconductor quantum dot shell states

Scientists at NRL's Materials Science and Technology Division successfully controlled the spin population of individual quantum shell states in self-assembled InAs quantum dots. This breakthrough enables new spintronics applications, as the electron's spin is used to store and process information.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 5, 2009

Researchers examine role of climate change in disease spread

Researchers Higgs and Gould examine climate's impact on West Nile, Chikungunya, Rift Valley fever, and Bluetongue viruses' spread. Climate change is linked to the northward expansion of Culex imicola midge species, facilitating Bluetongue virus dispersal.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalTransactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateFeb 5, 2009

Laser-sculpted optical devices for future giant telescopes

New research demonstrates how laser-based techniques can create micron-sized light pathways in three dimensions, enabling the detection of faint light from extrasolar planets and galaxies. This technology has the potential to improve the sensitivity and precision of future telescopes, such as the planned European ELT.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 5, 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.

Software could save organizations $19,000 each month

A new software called PowerDown automatically shuts down computers after 30 minutes of inactivity, recovering up to £13,000 in electricity costs each month. This reduces power consumption by millions of hours and helps organizations save money on their energy bills.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Finance·DateFeb 5, 2009

A natural, alternative insect repellent to DEET

Isolongifolenone, a natural compound found in the Tauroniro tree, has been proven effective in deterring mosquito bites and repelling ticks. The findings suggest that isolongifolenone could be a cost-effective alternative to DEET for protecting against blood-feeding arthropods.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateFeb 5, 2009

Hepatitis C is killing liver cells

Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that hepatitis C virus causes direct damage to liver cells and leads to inflammation. This finding sheds new light on the virus and provides potential targets for therapy.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 5, 2009

A better mesh: Researchers 'tighten' body's protective coating

Scientists have discovered a way to shrink the holes in the mucus layer's netting, allowing it to keep out smaller particles. The technique uses a detergent commonly found in personal care products and has potential applications for protecting against airborne pathogens and nanoparticles.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 5, 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.

Heart failure linked to cognitive impairment

A new study published by Elsevier found that nearly half of patients with heart failure have problems with memory and other aspects of cognitive functioning. Memory problems, especially short-term memory, were the most common type of cognitive deficit in these patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Cardiac Failure·DateFeb 5, 2009

Hope for preventative treatment for cystic fibrosis lung disease

Researchers have successfully prevented cystic fibrosis lung disease in a mouse model by administering amiloride, a drug that inhibits hyperactive sodium channels. Early inhalation treatment prevents chronic lung damage and airway inflammation, providing a new therapeutic approach for the widespread genetic disease.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2009

Census of modern organisms reveals echo of ancient mass extinction

A global analysis of marine bivalves reveals the echo of ancient mass extinction, with the recovery rate persisting despite latitudinal differences. The study found that the initial post-extinction boom never really fizzled out, but instead slowed to a crawl without returning to pre-extinction levels.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 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.

Origin of claws seen in 390-million-year-old fossil

A 390-million-year-old fossil discovery sheds light on the origins of claws in scorpions and horseshoe crabs. The specimen, Schinderhannes bartelsi, features a head with large eyes, paired grasping appendages, and wing-like limbs, providing insights into the evolution of these unique structures.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2009

Gambia takes on as National Program UAB project to abolish FGM

The Gambia has launched a National Programme to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), thanks to the pioneering work of UAB researcher Adriana Kaplan. The programme aims to promote alternative rituals that respect tradition while preventing physical mutilations, and will train health professionals in both Gambia and Spain.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·DateFeb 5, 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.

Statin therapy ineffective in breast cancer prevention

Scientists tested atorvastatin and lovastatin in animal models but found no efficacy in preventing breast cancer. In contrast, tamoxifen and bexarotene showed significant reduction in mammary tumors when combined with statins.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateFeb 5, 2009

Measuring molecules to improve drug design

CSIRO's DAC microscopy method measures proteins in solution, allowing accurate dimensions of membrane receptors to be taken. This will help drug companies design more effective pharmaceuticals by understanding the complex structures of these molecules.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalJournal of Microscopy·DateFeb 5, 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.

World first initiative improves global mental health

The Observatory on Mental Health Systems will develop research, monitoring, and evaluation programs at national and district levels, improving the human rights of people with mental illness. The observatory's work in Asia and the Pacific region aims to scale up effective mental health services in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health Systems·DateFeb 5, 2009

Silencing of jumping genes in pollen

Researchers at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência discover mechanism to silence transposable elements in sperm cells, preventing harmful mutations. The technique, developed by Jörg Becker's team, uses small interfering RNA to target and silence these DNA elements.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalCell·DateFeb 5, 2009

Predicting diversity within hotspots to enhance conservation

Researchers developed a new strategy to identify areas within hotspots where they should focus their time, effort and money. They used multiple species and past climate models to estimate the species' past distributions, pinpointing regions that have been climatically stable and likely to harbor diversity.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 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.

Researchers observe evolution chain reaction

A team of researchers observed the sequential development of new species in fruit flies and parasitic wasps after introducing apples to North America. The modification of one species triggers the modification of a second, dependent species, demonstrating biodiversity as a source for new biodiversity.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2009

Researchers shake up scientific theory on motor protein

Researchers identified key elements of dynein's structure and its winch-like mechanism, correcting some mistaken ideas. Dynein is responsible for transporting molecular cargo within cells, powering movement of sperm and eggs, and helping cells divide.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCell·DateFeb 5, 2009

GEN reports on strategies to overcome blood-brain barrier

Researchers explore approaches to preserve BBB function and permit effective medicine passage. One technology involves targeting endogenous nutrient transporters, such as SLCs, to facilitate small molecule transport across the BBB.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Engineering & Biotechnology News·DateFeb 5, 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.

Pharmaceuticals sold in Sweden cause serious environmental harm in India

A study by the University of Gothenburg found that pharmaceutical substances released into the environment can lead to resistant bacteria and harm local ecosystems. The research highlights the need for greater transparency in the production chain to ensure environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalRegulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology·DateFeb 5, 2009

New treatment hope for prostate cancer

Researchers at Burnet Institute develop a potential new treatment for prostate cancer using a monoclonal antibody targeting the PIM-1 molecule, which plays a critical role in cell survival and proliferation. Laboratory models show significant inhibition of cancer cell growth, paving the way for clinical trials.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 5, 2009