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Science News for June 29, 2009


Fermilab's CDF observes Omega-sub-b baryon

The CDF collaboration observes the Omega-sub-b baryon with two strange quarks and a bottom quark, confirming theoretical expectations but conflicting with a previous DZero result. The discovery strengthens physicists' confidence in their understanding of quark matter formation and opens a new window for investigating this rare object.

SourceDOE/Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review D·DateJun 29, 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.

First riser-drilling research operations undertaken

The Deepsea Drilling Vessel CHIKYU has begun riser-drilling operations in the Nankai Trough Seismogenic Zone, targeting a depth of 1,600 meters. This marks a significant milestone in ocean drilling, as CHIKYU becomes the first vessel capable of drilling deep beneath the ocean floor and in seismogenic zones.

SourceIntegrated Ocean Drilling Program Management International·DateJun 29, 2009

High levels of cycling training damage triathletes' sperm

Research suggests that triathletes who undertake high levels of cycling training have worse sperm morphology and quality. The study found a statistically adverse correlation between sperm morphology and the volume of cycling training undertaken per week.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 29, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Composites for energy

Recent studies suggest tidal stream devices could supply up to 5% of the UK's electricity needs, offering a solution with minimal environmental impacts. Collaborative projects are developing more fatigue-resistant materials and improved design techniques for wind turbine blades and solar energy converters.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJun 29, 2009

Gene expression findings a step toward better classification and treatment of juvenile arthritis

Scientists have identified gene expression patterns in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) that can help predict their disease outcome and guide treatment. These findings could lead to more precise classification of JIA subtypes and the development of individually tailored treatments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJun 29, 2009

Water webs: Connecting spiders, residents in the Southwest

A study by Arizona State University researchers reveals that water limitation affects cricket consumption of green leaves and wolf spider hunting of crickets, highlighting the role of water in understanding ecosystem changes due to global climate change. This finding has implications for biodiversity in arid regions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEcology·DateJun 29, 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.

From Columbine to Dawson: study on psychological impact of mass shootings

A new study by researchers from Université de Montréal's Louis-H. Lafontaine Hospital-Fernand-Seguin Research Centre and McGill University Health Centre found that only a small percentage of individuals diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder received treatment, while many others reported symptoms but did not seek help due to fea...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateJun 29, 2009

NuTeV anomaly helps shed light on physics of the nucleus

A new calculation resolves the NuTeV Anomaly by applying theoretical models of the EMC Effect, revealing a fundamental modification in proton and neutron structure within the nucleus. The result provides crucial evidence for physics beyond the Standard Model.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 29, 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.

Novel epigenetic markers of melanoma may herald new treatments for patients

Scientists have identified novel epigenetic markers in melanoma that can be used to develop new treatments. The markers, which are alterations to DNA chemical modifications, were found to be correlated with gene repression and can be reversed by treating cancer cells with a drug called decitabine.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateJun 29, 2009

Seasonal hunger devastating and under-recognized

Seasonal hunger is a widespread issue, affecting nearly seven out of ten hungry people globally. Proven interventions exist to alleviate this problem, but they often operate on a small scale and need scaling up.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 29, 2009

4 out of 106 heart replacement valves from pig hearts failed

Researchers found that pig heart valves used to replace defective aortic valves in human patients failed much earlier and more often than expected. Four out of 106 patients developed severe impairment after less than four years, requiring surgery to replace the valves.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateJun 29, 2009

UNC study: Aerobic activity may keep the brain young

Researchers found that physically active elderly individuals exhibited healthier cerebral blood vessels compared to less active counterparts. The study showed a vessel pattern similar to younger adults, with increased small-diameter vessels and less twisting.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Neuroradiology·DateJun 29, 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.

ICSI or IVF: Babies born from frozen embryos do just as well

A study found that babies born from frozen embryos fertilized via ICSI or standard IVF treatment have similar outcomes, including Apgar scores and birth weights. However, there was a slightly higher rate of malformations in medicated cycles.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 29, 2009

Gregory Stephanopoulos winner of 2009 Amgen Biochemical Engineering Award

Professor Gregory Stephanopoulos has been awarded the 2009 Amgen Biochemical Engineering Award for his outstanding contributions to metabolic engineering. He has made significant contributions to the field of biochemical engineering, including the development of microbial cells for the production of fuels and chemicals.

SourceEngineering Conferences International·DateJun 29, 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.

Who goes abroad for fertility treatment and why?

A study found that over 20,000 European patients travel across borders for fertility treatment annually, citing quality concerns and legal restrictions. The majority of respondents were seeking assisted reproduction treatment, with countries like Italy, Germany, and France having the highest number of cross-border patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 29, 2009

Second gene linked to familial testicular cancer

A new study has identified a second gene linked to familial testicular cancer, raising the risk of men with a family history. The PDE11A gene's mutations are found in about one out of every five families studied, and may modify an individual's susceptibility to developing a tumor.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 29, 2009

Stanford researchers publish comprehensive model for medical device development

The Stanford researchers' five-phase stage-gate model describes a process applicable to various medical technologies and innovation settings. It outlines phases including initiation, formulation, design, final validation, and product launch, with decision gates at each phase.

SourceInHealth: The Institute for Health Technology Studies·JournalJournal of Medical Devices·DateJun 29, 2009

Dynasty: Influenza virus in 1918 and today

The 1918 influenza pandemic created a viral dynasty that persists to this day, with all human-adapted influenza A viruses being descendents of the founding virus. The novel 2009 H1N1 virus is yet another manifestation of this enduring viral family.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

Super-sleepers could help super-sizers!

A team of scientists has discovered that burrowing frogs can survive for years without food or water by changing their cell metabolism to maximize energy efficiency. This radical adaptation could have significant medical applications, particularly in treating energy-related disorders like obesity.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

First step to converting solar energy using 'artificial leaf'

Scientists at Leiden University have successfully developed an artificial leaf that can convert sunlight into fuel and clean energy. The breakthrough, which is the first step in creating an artificial photosynthesis system, involves modifying chlorophyll molecules to resemble the efficient light antennae of bacteria.

SourceLeiden University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

Stanford researchers find a quicker, cheaper way to sort isotopes

Scientists at Stanford University have created a new method to analyze isotopes, which are used to solve crimes, date ancient artifacts, and identify chemicals. The device uses laser-based spectroscopy to measure the ratios of isotopes in a sample, providing accurate results within one to three parts per thousand.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

Desert dust alters ecology of Colorado alpine meadows

Research reveals that desert dust accelerates snowmelt in Colorado alpine meadows, changing how plants respond to seasonal climate cues and affecting their annual growth cycles. This could lead to increased competition for resources among plants and potentially alter the composition of alpine meadows.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 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.

Working to conserve endangered 'Playboy' bunnies

A new UCF study is using population genetics to aid in the conservation of the Lower Keys marsh rabbits (Sylvilagus palustris hefneri), which are estimated to have less than 300 individuals remaining. The research aims to identify genetically diverse populations and relocate them to create a new habitat.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateJun 29, 2009

GUMC study may help explain 'awakenings' that occur with popular sleep-aid Ambien

A new study by Georgetown University Medical Center researchers suggests that zolpidem, a powerful sedative, activates brain circuits when neural activity is silenced. This 'activation' occurs due to changes in inhibitory neurons responsible for stopping neural activity, allowing excitatory neurons to re-awaken.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

Sulfate lens enhances climate warming properties of atmospheric soot

Scientists have found that when sulfate and soot mix in the atmosphere, the sulfate shell enhances the absorption of light by coated soot particles. This mixing happens quickly and affects the role of soot in climate change, potentially leading to more warming.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 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.

Ecological Society of America announces 2009 award recipients

The Ecological Society of America presents the Eminent Ecologist Award to Steven Hubbell for his neutral theory of biodiversity and biogeography, while Jerry Jenkins, Glenn Motzkin, and Kirsten Ward receive the Cooper Award for their work on plant succession. The Mercer Award is given to Richard Lankau and Sharon Strauss for their pape...

SourceEcological Society of America·DateJun 29, 2009

IU School of Optometry named national vision research center

The IU School of Optometry has been awarded a $2.2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to support its vision research program. The grant will enable researchers to improve their infrastructure, including electronics, machine shop, and scientific computing resources.

SourceIndiana University·DateJun 29, 2009

Loss of coastal seagrass habitat accelerating globally

The first comprehensive global assessment reveals accelerating losses of seagrasses, threatening the health and sustainability of coastal ecosystems. Seagrasses disappear at rates similar to coral reefs and tropical rainforests, with a loss of 110 square-kilometers per year since 1980.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

Water should be a human right

The World Health Organization estimates that 2.8 billion people will face water stress or scarcity by 2025. Access to clean water can reduce global disease burden and is essential for health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

Gene map aims to combat blood flukes

Researchers created a genetic linkage map for S. mansoni, a blood fluke infecting 90 million people in Africa and the New World. The map will facilitate high-resolution population genetic studies and improve understanding of transmission patterns.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

Penn State researchers receive $1.2 million MURI grant

Researchers at Penn State's Center for Network-Centric Cognition and Information Fusion are working on a $1.2 million MURI grant to develop unified research on network-based hard/soft information fusion. The team will use data from various sources, including cell phones and social media sites, to improve data fusion capabilities.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 29, 2009

Pitt researchers describe the 90-year evolution of swine flu

Pitt researchers describe the 90-year evolution of H1N1 swine flu, tracing its genetic roots back to a 1918 respiratory illness in pigs. The current strain shares common ancestry with older flu strains, potentially offering partial immunity to new pandemic viruses.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

How much is life worth? The $440 billion question

A recent study highlights the immense economic burden of life-extending cancer treatments in the US, estimated to be over $400 billion annually. The authors argue that interventions with survival advantages of two months or less should be prioritized to address this issue.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 29, 2009

Tunnel vision

The US Department of Homeland Security is developing a new technology using ground-penetrating radar to detect tunnels along the US border. This innovative system will help agents locate and plug tunnels almost as fast as criminals can dig them, reducing the threat of drug smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorist attacks.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateJun 29, 2009

Study of flower color shows evolution in action

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have identified genes that regulate flower color change, revealing a predictable pattern of evolution. The study found that hawkmoths prefer white or yellow flowers over red ones, driving natural selection to shift flower colors.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

2 is not company -- as far as fish are concerned

Research finds fish kept alone or with one companion show increased aggression, while larger groups exhibit natural behaviors like shoaling. The study aims to establish welfare guidelines for home aquaria by examining healthy stocking densities and novel object use.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 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.

Ozone depletes oil seed rape productivity

High ozone conditions decrease oilseed rape yield by 30% and increase toxic glucosinolate compounds, affecting crop resistance and animal fodder quality. This could lead to significant income loss for farmers and impact human health in future climates.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

Conversing helps language development more than reading alone

A new UCLA study found that conversing with children is more effective in promoting language development than just reading to them. The study, which measured the effects of adult-child conversations on language development, found that back-and-forth conversation was strongly associated with future improvements in the child's language s...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 29, 2009

Natural-born divers and the molecular traces of evolution

Researchers found marine mammals have higher myoglobin solubility due to increased net positive charge, and stronger divers have more histidine, aiding lactic acid management. This adaptation helps marine mammals cope with aquatic life demands.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 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.

Risk of cancer

Researchers identified a novel mechanism linking a common single-base variant in chromosome 8 to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. This variant is carried by nearly all African populations and contributes significantly to the disease at a population level, yet its impact on individual susceptibility is minimal.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 29, 2009

Ovarian transplantation: First baby is born after a new technique

A new ovarian transplantation technique has successfully restored fertility in two patients who had lost their ovaries due to cancer treatment. The two-step procedure involves grafting small pieces of frozen ovarian tissue before the main transplant, allowing for faster recovery of ovarian function and improved response to stimulation.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 29, 2009

Toxic chemicals affect steroid hormones differently in humans and invertebrates

A study by French and American scientists found that enzyme synthesis of steroids in humans is unrelated to those in insects, snails, octopuses, and corals. This discovery suggests a 'snail-centered viewpoint' for understanding the effects of environmental chemicals on steroid synthesis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

Peptic ulcer bacterium alters the body's defense system

A study from the University of Gothenburg reveals Helicobacter pylori manipulates immune cells to develop a chronic infection. The bacterium also increases regulatory T cells in the stomach lining, which may lead to new treatments against peptic ulcers and stomach cancer.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalClinical Immunology·DateJun 29, 2009

Hand-held aerosol sensors help fill crucial data gap over oceans

The Maritime Aerosol Network (MAN) initiative uses portable photometers to measure aerosol concentrations over the oceans, contradicting satellite measurements at high latitudes. Researchers hope to improve confidence in aerosol measurements to better predict climate responses to global temperature increases.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 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.

Female human embryos adjust the balance of X chromosomes before implantation

Researchers found that human female embryos inactivate one X chromosome prior to implantation, which may affect laboratory culture conditions and embryo survival. This process is thought to have remained unchanged throughout evolution and has implications for human embryonic stem cell research.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 29, 2009

Mice run faster on high-grade oil

Research finds that mice fed sunflower oil (n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids) run faster than those on linseed oil (n-3 fatty acids), achieving a 6.3% boost in sprint speed. This effect is significant for small mammals, such as mice and their predators.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

Black gay men may be at increased HIV risk

Black gay men are more likely to have tightly interconnected sexual networks, increasing the rapid spread of HIV. Social barriers and racism contribute to these networks, perpetuating health disparities among Black gay men.

SourceSpringer·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateJun 29, 2009

71 projects fill DOE Joint Genome Institute 2010 pipeline

The DOE JGI has selected 71 new genomic sequencing projects for its 2010 Community Sequencing Program, focused on bioenergy, climate, and environmental applications. The program aims to improve the clean energy pathways and understanding of the global carbon cycle.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·DateJun 29, 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.

Breakthrough in combating the side effects of quinine

Researchers at University of Nottingham found that quinine blocks cell's ability to take up tryptophan, a key amino acid. Dietary tryptophan supplements may improve quinine performance and combat side effects.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 29, 2009

Birds with a nose for a difference

Researchers found that most pairs of black-legged kittiwakes avoid inbreeding more often than chance, suggesting they can detect relatives in large populations. Inbred pairs produced fewer hatching eggs and chicks with lower survival rates.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

Leeds engineers developing bulletproof vests from cement

The University of Leeds is working on a new type of body armor made from cement, combining super-strong cement with recycled carbon fibre materials to create a material tough enough to withstand most types of bullets. The project aims to provide cost-effective protection for people at risk, such as security guards and reporters.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateJun 29, 2009

UNC scientists tackle viral mysteries

Researchers discover that a secondary viral infection can trigger the reactivation of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), leading to uncontrolled cell growth and potentially developing into cancer. Activation of specific toll-like receptors allows the virus to replicate, spreading throughout the body.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 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.

From human bite to robot jaws

Researchers developed a biologically-inspired robot, the Chewing Robot, to study dental wear formation on human teeth. The robot replicates natural bite forces and movements, allowing for improved testing of new dental materials.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJun 29, 2009

Debate on administration of magnesium sulfate to pregnant women to prevent cerebral palsy in preterm infants

Researchers found evidence that magnesium sulfate administration significantly reduces the risk of cerebral palsy in children at risk. However, a roundtable discussion highlighted the need for further clarification on its use due to conflicting results from well-designed trials and observational studies.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJun 29, 2009

MIT: Extending the shelf life of antibody drugs

A new computer model developed at MIT allows researchers to design more stable antibodies, reducing clumping and aggregation issues. The model identifies regions responsible for aggregation and enables mutation of amino acids to increase stability without affecting function.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 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.

Study could help target new pancreatitis treatments

Researchers have discovered that deleting specific genes can significantly reduce toxic calcium release in pancreatic cells, which can trigger pancreatitis. The study's findings may lead to the development of more effective treatments for the disease, particularly those related to excessive drinking.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

New crops needed for new climate

Research finds increased toxic compounds and decreased protein content in plants grown under high CO2 and drought conditions. Cassava yields may also be affected, highlighting the need for new crop cultivars to address future climate change.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateJun 29, 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.

Scientific system accurately predicts spread of H1N1: study

A scientific system developed by St. Michael's Hospital accurately predicted the international spread of H1N1 by analyzing flight itineraries of over 2.3 million passengers. The system, known as The BIO.DIASPORA Project, quickly integrated information on worldwide air traffic patterns with global infectious disease threats.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 29, 2009

IU researchers find vibrator use to be common, linked to sexual health

Vibrator use is prevalent among adult Americans, reported by 53% of women and 45% of men, associated with positive sexual function and proactive sexual health care. The studies also found no significant differences in vibrator use between heterosexual and gay/bisexual men.

SourceIndiana University·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateJun 29, 2009

Early heart attack therapy with bone marrow extract improves cardiac function

A study published by UCSF researchers found that bone marrow extract is as effective as bone marrow stem cells in improving cardiac function, decreasing scar tissue, and pumping capacity after a heart attack. Both therapies resulted in increased blood vessels and reduced cardiac cell death, showing promise for new treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJun 29, 2009

Scripps research scientists find key culprits in lupus

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified three proteins called Toll-like receptors as necessary for the autodestruction that occurs in autoimmune diseases like lupus. The study suggests that these TLRs may be good targets for therapy, potentially leading to new treatments for lupus and other autoimmune diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 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.

Dino tooth sheds new light on ancient riddle

A new study by the University of Leicester has found evidence that duck-billed dinosaurs, such as Hadrosaurs, had a unique way of eating. The researchers used microscopic analysis of scratches on dinosaur teeth to understand their feeding mechanisms and place them in ancient ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

New MRI technique could mean fewer breast biopsies in high-risk women

A new MRI technique developed by UW-Madison researchers has the potential to reduce breast biopsies in high-risk women. The technology allows radiologists to visually identify cancerous lesions based on characteristics such as shape and smoothness of edges. This could lead to fewer unnecessary biopsies and improved patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateJun 29, 2009

Prostate screening studies reviewed in European Urology July issue

The July issue of European Urology reviews prostate cancer screening studies, highlighting the need to balance mortality reduction with overdiagnosis risks. The EAU adopts the conclusions of the ERSPC study and recognizes the benefit of screening for mortality reduction.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·JournalEuropean Urology·DateJun 29, 2009

New research shows a global trend in nature-based tourism

A new study found that many nations are seeing an annual increase in visitors to their conservation areas, with visitor numbers rising by as much as 7 or 8 per cent per year in some countries. The research suggests that nature-based tourism remains extremely popular and is growing quickly in most places.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 29, 2009

World's largest aerosol sensing network has leafy origins

The Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) is the world's largest network of ground-based sensors for aerosols, crucial to understanding Earth's climate. AERONET was born from a need to study vegetation using satellites, but Holben shifted focus to aerosols, leading to a better understanding of their role in climate change.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 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.

Placebo effects in caregivers may change behavior of children with ADHD

A recent review suggests that when caregivers believe their ADHD patients are receiving medication, they tend to view those children more favorably and treat them more positively. This placebo effect may influence how parents and teachers evaluate and behave toward children with ADHD.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateJun 29, 2009

GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy June issue study highlights

A study published in GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy examined polyp detection rates at screening colonoscopy and identified factors contributing to variability. Procedure time was found to be significantly associated with polyp detection rates across all models, indicating the need for quality standards for colonoscopy performance.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 29, 2009

MIT: A new approach to engineering for extreme environments

Researchers develop nanocomposite materials that can endure high temperatures, radiation, and extreme mechanical loading. The ultimate goal is to use these materials in energy applications including nuclear power, fuel cells, solar energy, and carbon sequestration.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 29, 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.

Peer pressure plays major role in environmental behavior

A new study published in PNAS found that social norms have significant impacts on the sustainability of conservation investments. The research showed that people are more likely to enroll in conservation programs if their neighbors do so, highlighting the power of peer pressure in environmental behavior.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009