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Science News Archive June 2009 - Page 20


Page 20 of 26

Women underrepresented in cancer research, U-M study finds

A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that women are under-represented in clinical cancer research, with only 37% of studies including adequate numbers of female participants. The study analyzed 661 prospective clinical studies with over 1 million total participants and found that st...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer·DateJun 8, 2009

4 risk factors raise probability of developing precursor of heart failure

Researchers found that high blood pressure, excessive weight, smoking, and diabetes significantly increased the size of the heart's left ventricle over short-term (4 years) and long-term (16 years) periods. These risk factors can be directly targeted for prevention and lowering may potentially lower heart failure burden.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 8, 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.

More Ontario children are getting diagnosed with diabetes: ICES study

Rates of diabetes among Ontario children rose by 3% per year from 1994 to 2004, according to an ICES study. The highest incidence rate was found in 10- to 14-year-olds, with genetic susceptibility and environmental factors like obesity contributing to the trend.

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalPediatric Diabetes·DateJun 8, 2009

Fire mitigation work in western US misplaced, says new study led by CU-Boulder

A new study led by CU-Boulder found that only 11% of fuel-reduction activities took place within 1.5 miles of the wildland-urban interface, where fires pose the greatest risk to homes and people. The research suggests federal wildfire treatments are minimally effective at mitigating wildfire threat.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2009

Gas explosions: A new way to study phantom traffic jams

University of Alberta researcher Morris Flynn uses mathematical formulas to calculate the severity of phantom traffic jams on highways with various speed limits and traffic volumes. His research reveals that phantom traffic jams can start with only a handful of vehicles but quickly grow in scale and severity.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPhysical Review E·DateJun 8, 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.

Sleep disorders are largely underdiagnosed in pediatric patients

A recent study found that less than four percent of children and teens were diagnosed with a sleep disorder. The most common diagnoses included enuresis, sleep disordered breathing, and insomnia. Pediatricians are advised to ask about sleep during every well-child visit to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 8, 2009

Study shows animal mating choices more complex than once thought

A Purdue University study found that animals make complex decisions about choosing mates, considering multiple factors beyond major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes. Tail length also plays a role in reproductive success, with larger males being more likely to be chosen as sires.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJun 8, 2009

Problem solving and coping styles related to CPAP adherence

A study presented at SLEEP 2009 found that active problem-solving strategies and goal-oriented schedules are associated with successful CPAP use for obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals who use these styles are more likely to adhere to therapy, especially when defined by frequent nightly usage.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 8, 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.

Vaporized viral vector shows promise in anti-cancer gene therapy

A new lung cancer therapy employing a vaporized viral vector to deliver a cancer-inhibiting molecule directly to lung tissue shows early promise in mouse trials. The delivery of genes via aerosol holds promise for the treatment of a broad spectrum of pulmonary disorders.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 8, 2009

Manipulating light on a chip for quantum technologies

Researchers successfully manipulate entangled states of four photons on a silicon chip, achieving precise control over the behavior of individual particles. This breakthrough has important implications for quantum computing and ultra-precise measurements, paving the way for advanced quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 8, 2009

What about the boys?

A new study published in Springer's journal Gender Issues highlights the significant problems faced by American boys, including lower literacy levels, higher drop-out rates, and increased rates of mental health issues. The research suggests that policy makers have largely neglected these issues, focusing instead on those affecting girls.

SourceSpringer·JournalGender Issues·DateJun 8, 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.

NIH invests $46 million in regional consortium for emerging infectious disease research

The Northeast Biodefense Center, a regional collaboration of major centers, will conduct interdisciplinary research on diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines to address emerging infectious diseases. The center has made significant contributions to global health, including the development of diagnostics for SARS and pandemic influenza.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateJun 8, 2009

Common chemotherapy drug triggers fatal allergic reactions

A study from Northwestern University found that Cremophor-based paclitaxel caused life-threatening allergic reactions in 38% of patients, leading to 109 deaths. The solvent is believed to trigger severe reactions, even in patients with premedication.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJun 8, 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.

Let me sleep on it: Creative problem solving enhanced by REM sleep

Research led by UC San Diego experts suggests that REM sleep fosters creative problem-solving by stimulating associative networks. The study shows that REM directly enhances creative processing more than any other sleep or wake state, leading to significant improvements in performance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2009

Gene therapy for hemophilia A mice

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have successfully provided long-term expression of Factor VIII in hemophilia A mice using a new gene therapy approach, marking a promising step toward human clinical trials.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 8, 2009

Scientists should look at their own carbon footprint

Researchers, particularly those in polar regions, are urged to examine and share ways to reduce their impact on the environment. By doing so, they can help create a better approach for understanding and adapting to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalARCTIC·DateJun 8, 2009

Muscle atrophy through thick but not thin

Researchers found that enzyme MuRF1 selectively degrades thick filaments in muscle, while thin filaments are bypassed. This ordered process enables the muscle to maintain its structure and function during atrophy.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 8, 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.

Study redefines roles of alcohol, smoking in risk for pancreatitis

A new study reveals that only heavy alcohol consumption above 5 drinks per day significantly raises the risk of chronic pancreatitis. Dose-dependent smoking also contributes to the risk, with smokers having more severe pancreatitis and longer smoking history.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJun 8, 2009

Multivitamins in pregnancy reduce risk of low birth weights

A new study found that prenatal multivitamin supplements significantly reduce the risk of babies with a low birth weight compared to iron-folic acid supplementation. The study suggests that micronutrients supplementation could avoid approximately 1.5 million low birth weight babies globally each year.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 8, 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.

Is this the beginning of the end of plant breeding?

Researchers in France and Austria have created a strain of plant called MiMe, which produces genetically identical pollen and eggs through mitosis instead of meiosis. This breakthrough has the potential to simplify the creation of stable new mutant crops, paving the way for more efficient crop improvement and propagation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 8, 2009

More than just the tailpipe

Researchers create framework to calculate environmental cost of travel, including power plants, train station upkeep and airport runway construction. A half-full Boston light railway is found to be as environmentally friendly as a midsize aircraft at 38% occupancy.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 8, 2009

Starting antiretroviral therapy earlier yields better clinical outcomes

A new clinical trial found that starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) before CD4+ T cell counts drop below 200 cells/mm3 improves survival for HIV-infected adults. The study's results have the potential to change standard of care for HIV infection in dozens of countries.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJun 8, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis can also erase DNA

Researchers at Uppsala University have identified a new enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis that can also erase DNA from bacterial chromosomes. By studying Salmonella mutants, they found that this enzyme plays a crucial role in spontaneous gene deletions, which can lead to the reduction of DNA content.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 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.

Less sleep associated with high, worsening blood pressure in middle age

Middle-aged adults who sleep fewer hours are more likely to have high blood pressure and experience worsening blood pressure over time. The study, which included 578 adults, found that each hour of reduction in sleep duration was associated with a 37% increase in the odds of developing high blood pressure.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJun 8, 2009

Fatal brain disease at work well before symptoms appear

Researchers found that protein aggregates, previously thought to cause ALS, actually appear later on, increasing in number before symptoms appear. This discovery suggests a larger therapeutic window to treat the disease if diagnosed early.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJun 8, 2009

Study: Engineering stereotypes drive counterproductive practices

A study by Northwestern University found that engineering students often perpetuate stereotypes of engineers as lone experts, leading to counterproductive practices such as solo work and procrastination. This can harm team-based projects and hinder workplace effectiveness.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateJun 8, 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.

New cleaning protocol for future 'search for life' missions

Scientists at the University of Leeds and NASA have developed a new cleaning protocol to ensure that Earth-based microorganisms don't contaminate Mars samples. The protocol was tested on various sampling devices, including rover scoops and glacial ice core drills, and found to effectively remove detectable organic biosignatures.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalAstrobiology·DateJun 8, 2009

Race and short sleep duration increase the risk for obesity

A study by American Academy of Sleep Medicine finds that short sleep duration significantly increases the risk of obesity, particularly in black Americans, who have a 35% greater risk than whites. The study analyzed data from over 29,000 individuals and found that black Americans had a higher prevalence of both short sleep and obesity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 8, 2009

Unexpected discovery can open a new chapter in the fight against tuberculosis

A Uppsala University research group has made a groundbreaking discovery that mycobacteria, the bacteria causing tuberculosis, can form spores. This finding challenges long-held beliefs and opens up new possibilities for understanding how these bacteria cause latent infections.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2009

Stopping diabetes damage with vitamin C

Researchers found that a combination of insulin and vitamin C stopped blood vessel damage caused by Type 1 diabetes in patients with poor glucose control. The therapy's effectiveness was proven in humans for the first time, offering hope for diabetic patients to avoid complications.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 8, 2009

Television watching before bedtime can lead to sleep debt

A large study found that television viewing is a dominant pre-sleep activity, accounting for nearly 50% of pre-bedtime. This can lead to reduced sleep time and increased health risks. Experts suggest limiting TV viewing before bedtime as a behavioral change to promote adequate sleep.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 8, 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.

An estimated 4 percent of older US men have dry eye disease

A study estimates that approximately 1.68 million US men over 50 years old suffer from dry eye disease, which increases with age and is associated with high blood pressure and certain medications. The prevalence of the condition rises significantly among older men, particularly those aged 75 and above.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateJun 8, 2009

Self-regulation game predicts kindergarten achievement

Researchers found that a five-minute self-regulation game can predict end-of-year achievement in math, literacy and vocabulary. The game was associated with the equivalent of several months of additional learning in kindergarten.

SourceOregon State University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJun 8, 2009

Enigmatic sea urchin structure catalogued

A comprehensive investigation into sea urchins' axial complex has shown that various internal organs are structurally linked. The study uses high-resolution imaging to analyze specimens from multiple orders, providing a re-evaluation of published studies spanning two centuries.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateJun 8, 2009

MU study finds connection between evolution, classroom learning

A University of Missouri researcher recommends increasing repetition learning and reducing 'fun' activities in US schools to help bridge the gap between natural human learning abilities and modern knowledge needs. This approach can improve students' performance in subjects like science and math.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEducational Psychologist·DateJun 8, 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.

Cardiac rehabilitation saves lives

A large Brandeis University-led study found that cardiac rehabilitation significantly reduces mortality rates among older adult patients with heart disease. The study showed a 19% lower risk of death for those attending more than 24 sessions, and the benefits were most pronounced in extreme elderly patients.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 8, 2009

UT Southwestern research reveals how cells tell time

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center used the fungus Neurospora to study the biochemistry and genetics of body clocks. They found that a protein called FRQ marks time by a sequence of changes in its chemical structure, which controls many biological processes including cell division, hormonal release, and sleep/wake cycles.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2009