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Science News for July 27, 2009


Rethinking Brownian motion with the 'Emperor's New Clothes'

Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that Brownian motion does not always follow a Gaussian curve, as previously thought. The study reveals extreme displacements that were not predicted by Einstein's statistical molecular theory, suggesting new design possibilities and potential corrections to textbooks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

Iron-binding drug could help diabetics heal stubborn wounds, says Stanford/Einstein study

Researchers discovered that high glucose levels in diabetic tissue lead to reduced vascular endothelial growth factor production and impaired HIF-1a function. Deferoxamine, an iron-binding drug, has been shown to improve wound healing by restoring HIF-1a-p300 interaction, leading to increased growth factor production.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

Common food dye may hold promise in treating spinal cord injury

A common food additive, Brilliant Blue G, has been identified as a potential treatment for spinal cord injury. The compound stops the cascade of molecular events that cause secondary damage, allowing patients to recover from paralysis. Researchers have successfully tested BBG in rats with spinal cord injuries, showing promising results.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 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.

Teasing apart T helper cells

A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine shows that IL-9 promotes a multiple sclerosis-like disease in mice. The research suggests that IL-9 production may be linked to the presence of TGF-beta rather than a specific Th cell subset, contradicting the theory of a unique 'Th9' cell subset.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

Mayo researchers find anesthesia not harmful for babies during birth process

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that children exposed to general anesthesia during C-section delivery have no higher risk of learning disabilities. Babies delivered via Cesarean with epidural anesthesia had a reduced risk of learning disabilities compared to those delivered vaginally or with general anesthesia.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAnesthesiology·DateJul 27, 2009

Tiny early stage ovarian tumors define early detection challenge

Early-stage ovarian tumors can remain undetectable for years due to their small size, posing a significant challenge in early detection. The study suggests that detecting these microscopic tumors within a four-year window could enable surgeons to remove them before they spread.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

Study reveals a reprogrammed role for the androgen receptor

Researchers discover how androgen receptor switches to a new set of genes, leading to increased cell division and tumor progression. This finding may lead to the development of gene-targeted therapies to shut down the alternate growth program.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalCell·DateJul 27, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How the carrot approach facilitates learning

Researchers discovered that rewarding correct decisions can enhance brain function in the cortex and improve learning. Targeted manipulation of dopamine levels may lead to new possibilities in treating patients after a stroke or improving cognitive abilities.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 27, 2009

Trade liberalization linked to obesity in Central America

A recent study found that trade liberalization in Central America has led to a significant increase in the availability and affordability of processed, high-fat, and high-sugar foods. This has contributed to a growing burden of diet-related chronic diseases such as obesity and cardiovascular disease.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGlobalization and Health·DateJul 27, 2009
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

Most older long-term cancer survivors have poor health habits

A new study found that most older long-term cancer survivors with an interest in diet and exercise actually have poor health habits. However, those who exercised regularly and followed a healthy diet experienced improved physical health and quality of life.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateJul 27, 2009

Ovarian cancer tests flawed, in need of new design, says Stanford study

Current diagnostic tests for ovarian cancer are ineffective for early detection, but a new study suggests that with improved testing, tumors can be detected up to 4.3 years before diagnosis and treatment is possible. The window of opportunity for successful treatment is surprisingly long, making reliable early detection crucial.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

All-in-1 nanoparticle: A Swiss Army knife for nanomedicine

Scientists develop a novel nanoparticle structure that combines the functions of quantum dots and gold nanoparticles, creating a multipurpose tool for medical imaging and therapy. The breakthrough could enable more efficient delivery of drugs, heat therapy, and optical imaging.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 27, 2009

Molecule plays early role in nonsmoking lung cancer

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center identified a molecule, miR-21, playing an early and important role in the development of nonsmoking lung cancer. The study found that miR-21 levels were high in both early and late-stage tumors, suggesting it happens early in cancer development.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 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.

Disease threat may change how frogs mate

Research by Dr. Amber Teacher reveals that wild frog populations in the UK are changing their mating behaviour in response to Ranavirus infection, with healthy frogs selecting mates based on their Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) type.

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJul 27, 2009

Delays in defibrillation not explained by traditional hospital factors

A study analyzing 7,479 adult patients with cardiac arrest found that hospital performance in defibrillation time was more closely associated with individual patient characteristics and hospital-specific factors like bed number and location rather than case volume or academic status

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

High-fat, high-sugar foods alter brain receptors

High-fat, high-sugar foods increase opioids in the brain area controlling food intake, suggesting a biological basis for binge eating disorders. This study provides insight into changes in opioid receptor gene expression and its role in maintaining bingeing behavior.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·JournalAppetite·DateJul 27, 2009

Mom and dad as financial advisors

A new study published in Journal of Youth and Adolescence found that parents play a significantly greater role in shaping young adults' financial habits than work experience or high school financial education. The study's four-step model analyzes the process of financial socialization in first-year college students, highlighting the im...

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateJul 27, 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: Women different than men

The review article reveals striking sex differences in heart failure risk factors and patient prognosis between men and women. Women tend to develop HF at an older age with stronger hearts, while men are more likely to have coronary artery disease as the underlying cause.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 27, 2009

1 nano-step closer to weighing a single atom

Researchers have created a new class of ultra-sensitive nanoscale devices capable of detecting the vibrations of individual gold nanoparticles. By studying bipyramid-shaped nanoparticles with highly uniform sizes and shapes, scientists overcame previous limitations in understanding damping in these systems.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 27, 2009

Study finds significant number of kids experience family homelessness

A new study by UCLA and RAND Corp. researchers found that 7% of fifth-graders and their families have experienced homelessness, while African American children are more likely to suffer from mental health problems. The study's findings suggest a significant association between family homelessness and emotional, behavioral, and developm...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 27, 2009

Study: Cigarette packaging still misleading consumers over health hazards

A recent study found that cigarette packaging still contains misleading information about health hazards, with consumers incorrectly perceiving certain brands as safer. The researchers advocate for expanded regulations to remove such design elements and promote standardized packaging.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateJul 27, 2009

ACC positions quality at center of health-care reform

The American College of Cardiology advocates for a 'Quality First' approach to health care reform, focusing on increasing quality of care and ensuring patient access. The ACC has endorsed six principles necessary for effective reform, including universal coverage, focus on patient value, and payment reforms that reward quality.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 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.

Mines could provide geothermal energy

Researchers have developed a method to estimate the amount of heat that can be produced by abandoned mine tunnels, providing an alternative source of renewable energy. The geothermal energy from mines can be used for heating, hot water, and even industrial processes, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering CO2 emissions.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalRenewable Energy·DateJul 27, 2009

Nanophysics: Serving up Buckyballs on a silver platter

Researchers at Penn State University have successfully determined the geometry of C60 molecules on a silver surface using low-energy electron diffraction. The findings reveal a 'hole' beneath each molecule that reinforces bonding between carbon and silver, opening doors to studying technologically important molecules.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 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.

Soldiers turn a march into a charge

Engineers at the University of Leeds are developing a system to harness kinetic energy from soldiers' marches, capturing up to 15% of their foot-power to reduce pack weight. The project also aims to adapt radio equipment to run on low power budgets, enhancing soldier mobility and reducing fatigue.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateJul 27, 2009

Intensive glucose control halves complications of longstanding type 1 diabetes

A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that intensive glucose control halves the rate of eye and kidney damage in people with longstanding type 1 diabetes. The study also showed lower rates of cardiovascular disease events and improved vision loss rates compared to conventional control.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

Assisted reproductive techniques alter the expression of genes that are important for metabolism

Research using mice suggests that assisted reproductive techniques like IVF and ICSI can increase the incidence of metabolic problems in offspring, including higher blood pressure, increased fasting glucose levels, and more body fat. The study found altered expression of genes important for nutrient transport in the placenta.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·JournalAppetite·DateJul 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.

Sichuan earthquake caused significant damage to giant panda habitat

The Sichuan earthquake in 2008 destroyed nearly a quarter of the giant pandas' habitat, with over 354 square kilometers converted to bare land. Habitat fragmentation is also a significant concern, as it can lead to population isolation and increased risk of extinction.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJul 27, 2009

Genetic testing may be valuable in treating colorectal cancer

A new cost-effectiveness study found that genetic testing for metastatic colorectal cancer patients may be beneficial if it leads to nearly as effective dose-reduced treatment, improving life expectancy and reducing healthcare costs. The test identifies patients with a specific DNA variation that increases the risk of severe neutropenia.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalCancer·DateJul 27, 2009

New management training could lead to improved worker health

Researchers from Michigan State University created a scientific-based training program that focuses on supervisors supporting employees' work and family demands. The program aims to improve worker health and reduce turnover, offering a win-win economic proposition for employers, workers, and families.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Management·DateJul 27, 2009

UCSF team focuses on patient safety in ambulatory care system

The UCSF team emphasizes that outpatient care for chronic disease patients poses unique challenges, including lack of communication, inadequate resources, and medication management. To improve safety, the authors advocate for targeted safety promotion efforts and robust health information technology systems.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety·DateJul 27, 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.

Jade sheds light on Guatemala's geologic history

New research on jade found in Guatemala's Motagua fault reveals two collision events between the North American and Caribbean plates. The study uses eclogite dating to pinpoint a 130 million-year-old collision, followed by a second event at 70 million years ago.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJul 27, 2009

Study examines modern-day course of type 1 diabetes

Researchers analyzed data from studies on type 1 diabetes to find that intensive treatment can significantly reduce the risk of complications. The study showed improved outcomes in patients treated with more intensive therapy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 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.

Cardiothoracic surgeons projected to be in short supply by 2025

A study by the Association of American Medical Colleges predicts a 46% increase in demand for cardiothoracic surgeons while supply decreases by 21% by 2025. This shortage could lead to extended waiting times, unnecessary complications, and deaths, particularly affecting populations with limited access to medical care.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 27, 2009

UBC researchers help push for standard DNA barcodes for plants

Two UBC researchers are part of an international team recommending standards for DNA barcoding of land plants. They selected two genomic regions as the best candidates for generating barcode data, with a near-unique signature for barcoding and high accuracy in identifying plant species.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

New method uses electrolyzed water for more efficient fuel production

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method using electrolyzed water to pretreat ethanol waste products, producing an acetone-butanol-ethanol fuel mix. The traditional chemical-based method is eliminated, reducing inhibitor production and increasing sugar yield.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJul 27, 2009

Key OSU water research receives national funding

A $226,890 grant will fund a study on the effects of eastern redcedar encroachment on Oklahoma's tallgrass prairie ecosystem, which can alter precipitation and water loss patterns. The research aims to provide insights for land managers to better understand the impact of woody plant proliferation on water availability.

SourceOklahoma State University·DateJul 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.

Weight loss improves mood in depressed people

Research finds that a weight-loss program significantly improves symptoms of depression and reduces triglycerides in obese patients. After a 6-month behavioral weight loss program, depressed patients lost 8% of their initial weight and reported improvements in depressive symptoms.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·JournalAppetite·DateJul 27, 2009

Earliest animals lived in a lake environment, research shows

A UC Riverside-led study found that ancient lake deposits in South China harbor the first animal fossils, dating back 600 million years. The discovery raises questions about where early animals lived and how they adapted to their environment.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

New supercomputer to reel in answers to some of Earth's problems

The EMSL's Chinook supercomputer, commissioned for research, can perform over 160 trillion calculations per second, ranking it among the world's top 40 fastest computers. It will aid in understanding complex biological, chemical, and physical processes to address environmental and energy challenges.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJul 27, 2009

Divorce undermines health in ways remarriage doesn't heal

A study by University of Chicago sociologist Linda Waite found that divorce and widowhood have a detrimental impact on health, even after remarriage. Research based on 8,652 people aged 51 to 61 shows that those who have been divorced or widowed experience worse health outcomes compared to those who remain married.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateJul 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.

New FDA regulation of tobacco products has problems

A new FDA regulation on tobacco products has been met with criticism from advocates, who argue that it compromises long-term progress in tobacco control. The law repeals federal pre-emption of state and local regulations, but also allows the tobacco industry to rehabilitate its image through FDA-regulated products.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

Placenta-derived stem cells may help sufferers of lung diseases

Researchers have found that placenta-derived stem cells can reduce lung fibrosis and inflammation in mice with bleomycin-induced injury. The study's findings suggest these cells may be useful for cell therapy of fibrotic diseases in the future.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateJul 27, 2009

Anemia increases risk of death in the very elderly

A new study published in CMAJ found that anemia in very elderly individuals aged 85 and older is associated with a higher risk of death. The study, which followed 562 participants for five years, found that prevalent anemia at age 85 was linked to increased mortality rates.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 27, 2009

High blood pressure may lead to 'silent' strokes

A study published in Neurology found that people over 60 with high blood pressure are more likely to experience silent strokes. High blood pressure increases the risk by 60%, while white matter hyperintensities nearly double the likelihood of silent strokes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 27, 2009

Researchers capture bacterial infection on film

Scientists at the University of Bath and University of Exeter have developed a technique to study bacterial infections in real-time with living organisms. They used fruit fly embryos to track bacterial movement and interaction with the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 27, 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.

University has grand designs to build a house of straw

Researchers at the University of Bath are constructing a two-storey BaleHaus made of prefabricated straw bales and hemp cladding panels to test the sustainability of straw houses. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions and provide eco-friendly housing options.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJul 27, 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.

A yeast cancer model for mapping cancer genes

Researchers have developed a yeast model to identify genes that contribute to cancer growth. The study found that point mutations in just a few genetic loci are responsible for the faster growth of cells, rather than aneuploidy. This discovery could help guide the search for new cancer genes in humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 27, 2009

Case Western Reserve researchers discover the key to malaria susceptibility in children

Case Western Reserve researchers found that prenatal exposure to Plasmodium falciparum results in parasite tolerance, increasing susceptibility to malaria and anemia in young children. The study identified three groups: sensitized, exposed-not-sensitized, and not-exposed, with the latter group having a higher risk of malaria infection.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 27, 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.

Discovery to aid in future treatments of third-world parasites

Researchers at the Trudeau Institute have identified a single protein, omega-1, secreted from schistosome eggs that induces a specific immune response. This discovery may lead to new treatments and therapies for schistosomiasis, one of the most important neglected tropical diseases.

SourceTrudeau Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

Researchers develop 'brain-reading' methods

Scientists at Rutgers University and UCLA have developed a highly accurate way to peer into the brain to uncover a person's mental state. They found that specific mental functions do not correspond directly with certain brain areas but rather a unique pattern of neural connections.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 27, 2009

Scientists track impact of DNA damage in the developing brain

Research led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists shows that switching off a key DNA repair system in the developing nervous system is linked to smaller brain size and problems with movement, memory, and emotion. The study provides new insights into the role of DNA damage response in preventing neurological disease.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 27, 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.

Adult cancer survivors at increased risk of psychological distress

Long-term adult cancer survivors face a higher risk of experiencing serious psychological distress due to effects on physical health and social adaptation. Approximately 5.6% of cancer survivors screened positive for severe psychological distress within the previous 30 days.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

121 breeding tigers estimated to be found in Nepal

A nationwide tiger population estimate in Nepal reveals the presence of 121 breeding tigers, a promising sign for conservation efforts. The study employed camera trapping and habitat occupancy surveys to derive information on abundance and distribution.

SourceWorld Wildlife Fund·DateJul 27, 2009

Nanodiamonds deliver insulin for wound healing

Researchers at Northwestern University use nanodiamonds to deliver insulin for wound healing, demonstrating a method for localized release of therapeutic proteins. The nanodiamond-insulin clusters show promise for wound-healing applications and could be integrated into various treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBiomaterials·DateJul 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.

Blood flow in Alzheimer's disease

Elevated levels of ECE-2 enzyme are linked to reduced blood flow in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest that drugs blocking endothelin-1 may also benefit Alzheimer's patients.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJul 27, 2009

Warmer environment means shorter lives for cold-blooded animals

Research by Stony Brook University researchers found that temperature explains much of the geographic variation in lifespan within species. For a diverse range of species, ambient temperature is the dominant factor controlling lifespan.

SourceStony Brook University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

Video shows nanotube spins as it grows

The study provides the first experimental evidence of how individual carbon atoms are added to growing nanotubes. The rotation proceeds in discrete steps, resembling the halting motion of a mechanical clock's second hand, with approximately 24 steps per rotation.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 27, 2009

Just expecting a tasty food activates brain reward systems

A study found that expecting tasty food activates brain's orexin system, which is also involved in drug addiction and rewards. This mechanism may explain why people overeat in contexts associated with good food, with implications for obesity treatment.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·JournalAppetite·DateJul 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.

After dinosaurs, mammals rise but their genomes get smaller

A recent study found that only one group of mammals - humans, mice, and their close relatives - have seen their genomes decrease in size since the dinosaurs went extinct. This trend continues today, with human genomes undergoing a contraction, although noticeable changes won't be observed for several million years.

SourceIndiana University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJul 27, 2009

Orangutans unique in movement through tree tops

Researchers studied orangutan movement to understand how they adapt to challenging environments. Orangutans move with an irregular rhythm, allowing them to cope with tree vibrations and forage safely.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

Hybrid Linac-MRI system described at medical physics meeting in Anaheim

A new hybrid Linac-MR system has been developed to integrate medical linear accelerators and magnetic resonance imagers for treating certain types of cancer. The system promises to help doctors monitor moving tumors in real-time during radiation treatment, improving precision and reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateJul 27, 2009

Grant for brain tumor and deafness research

The Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry has received a grant to study the role of brain tumors in deafness and develop non-invasive therapies. The research aims to identify how tumors grow and cause hearing damage, and test drug-based treatments.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·DateJul 27, 2009

Smoking increases potential for metastatic pancreatic cancer

Research found that smoking increases the likelihood of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma becoming metastatic, with osteopontin isoform OPNc playing a key role. High levels of OPNc were detected in 87% of invasive PDA lesions from smokers, correlating with nicotine exposure.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalSurgery·DateJul 27, 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.

HIV uses autophagy for its own means

Researchers have discovered that HIV hijacks the autophagy process to facilitate viral replication and survival. By leveraging this cellular pathway, the virus can evade degradation and complete its maturation process.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 27, 2009

Could therapeutic vaccines treat hard to beat breast cancers?

A study of nearly 1,600 tumor samples found that CT-X genes are expressed in half of ER-negative and triple-negative breast cancers. This suggests a potential new therapy approach for these aggressive breast cancer types. Researchers plan to initiate clinical trials based on the findings.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009

How the pathology of Parkinson's disease spreads

The study reveals that alpha-synuclein aggregates can pass to new, healthy cells, contributing to the progression of Parkinson's disease. The researchers found that cell-to-cell transmission of alpha-synuclein occurs through endocytosis and is linked to impaired quality-control systems in recipient cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 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.

Yawn alert for weary drivers

A computer program can now detect driver yawning, which is a common cause of fatigue and road crashes. The system uses an in-car camera and image-processing software to identify yawning patterns and correlates them with fatigue behavior.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computational Vision and Robotics·DateJul 27, 2009

Why retroviruses such as HIV love their neighbors

Researchers at Yale University have discovered that infected cells produce viruses specifically at the point of contact between cells, making cell-to-cell transmission efficient and deadly. The study identified a possible weakness in this transmission chain by finding a sticky protein that docks with uninfected cells.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 27, 2009

Ethics review of research in the context of humanitarian relief work

The article describes the functioning of MSF's independent ERB, which has reviewed over 23 proposals since its inception. The board provides crucial ethical oversight to ensure community empowerment and vulnerable individuals' protection in research settings. Additionally, PLOS Medicine editors discuss the role of journals in addressin...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 27, 2009

Health care leaders say need for reform is urgent

A majority of healthcare leaders support a public health care option and innovative provider payment reform to control costs and ensure access to quality care. They also favor a national insurance exchange with standard-setting authority to standardize benefits and set rating rules.

SourceCommonwealth Fund·DateJul 27, 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.