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Science News for March 10, 2009


The perils of ageism

A new study published in Psychological Science suggests that young, healthy individuals who stereotype old people are at risk of heart disease years down the road. Researchers analyzed data from over 400 participants and found a striking link between negative age attitudes early in life and poor cardiovascular health later on.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 10, 2009

NSF 'net-centric' research group links Texas universities, industry

A new NSF-funded research group will integrate technology from Southern Methodist University, two other North Texas universities, and 11 industry partners to create net-centric solutions. The consortium aims to improve research capabilities in the US by combining academic expertise with high-tech companies.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·DateMar 10, 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.

Motivational readiness for alcohol/drug treatment is more about self-evaluation than consequences

New research on the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment Scale (URICA) finds that motivational readiness is more about individual self-reflection than avoiding negative consequences. The study, published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, suggests that motivation and readiness to change are influenced by personal ...

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateMar 10, 2009

What I was doing vs. what I did: How verb aspect influences memory and behavior

Researchers found that describing past actions in the imperfective aspect (e.g. I was solving word puzzles) improves memory recall and performance on similar tasks compared to the perfective aspect (e.g. I solved word puzzles). This technique may be useful in behavioral therapy for increasing healthy behaviors.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 10, 2009

Fishing for microdeletions that predispose an embryo to develop cancer syndromes in later life

Scientists use fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) to detect microdeletions in embryos, which can predispose children to certain cancer syndromes. The technique has the potential to test patients with other genetic conditions as well, and opens up new possibilities for families affected by these disorders.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 10, 2009

New York State health IT strategy may be model for the nation

A study by Weill Cornell Medical College finds that New York state's health IT initiatives have achieved significant success, with 100% of programs remaining active and functioning after two years. The initiative has improved quality of care, increased efficiency, and reduced medical errors.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 10, 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.

Research is essential in nursing education

Undergraduate nursing students can benefit from research instruction, which enhances their education and prepares them to investigate healthcare issues. Nurse researchers like Dr. Tingen build knowledge used to improve care quality and efficiency.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Nursing Education·DateMar 10, 2009

Reducing suicidal behaviors among adolescents

A recent study by Georgia State University researchers found that adolescent girls who perceive themselves as overweight are more likely to display suicidal behaviors than those who are actually overweight. The study analyzed data from 1999-2007 and estimated the potential economic costs of obesity-related suicides.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

Children's National research links platelets to sepsis-related organ failure

Scientists have identified platelets as a contributor to organ failure in patients with sepsis. The study found that granzyme B production in platelets can cause cell death, leading to organ failure. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to better treatments and potentially even prevention of organ failure.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

Also in the March 10 JNCI

Daily folic acid supplements may increase prostate cancer risk by more than twice that of placebo. Baseline dietary folate intake and plasma levels showed a trend towards reduced risk but did not reach statistical significance. Researchers suggest large epidemiological studies using improved methods to study diet and cancer prevention.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 10, 2009

Turning sunlight into liquid fuels

Researchers have created a nano-sized cobalt oxide photocatalyst that can effectively split water molecules, a critical step towards producing liquid fuels from carbon dioxide and water. The clusters are sufficiently efficient and fast, making them suitable for artificial photosynthesis.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 10, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New study identifies risk factors in severity of 'flat head syndrome' in babies

A new study found direct correlations between variables and the severity of flat head syndrome in infants, identifying risk factors such as lower gestational age, male sex, and multiple-birth pregnancies. The study also questioned the effectiveness of non-helmet devices in treating or preventing the condition.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Craniofacial Surgery·DateMar 10, 2009

Journal of American College of Surgeons finds lung transplantation should be used in older patients

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons suggests that lung transplantation can be a viable option for patients older than 60, as long as they are younger than 70. The research found that mortality rates after one year were significantly higher for patients over 70 compared to those under 70.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 10, 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.

Indian schools to benefit from new computer chips

A new solar-powered electronic slate, or I-slate, will use Rice's revolutionary low-energy computer chips to enable learning in rural Indian classrooms. The chips' 'probabilistic' technology trades off precision for significant reductions in energy use.

SourceRice University·DateMar 10, 2009

Barriers to adoption of electronic personal health records outlined

A study by UCSF researchers identifies critical barriers hindering the adoption of electronic personal health records, including cost, privacy concerns, and design shortcomings. The authors propose solutions such as improving interoperability and using mobile phones as an entry point for consumers to access their records.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 10, 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.

Synthetic gene circuit allows precise dosing of gene expression

A new synthetic gene circuit allows for precise dosing of gene expression in yeast cells, enabling accurate analysis of a gene's role in normal and abnormal cellular function. The circuit utilizes negative feedback loops to achieve a linear dose-response relationship.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2009

African-Americans lose weight in 12-week, church-based program

Researchers found that nearly half of participants lost 5% or more of their body weight and kept it off for at least six months. The 12-week Fit Body and Soul program focused on behavioral changes to prevent future diabetes in high-risk church members.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateMar 10, 2009

Systematic estimation of breast cancer risk appears justified in postmenopausal women

Systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses support the use of risk assessment models combined with breast density information to identify high-risk postmenopausal women. Lifestyle factors such as exercise, weight reduction, and reduced alcohol intake also show promise in reducing breast cancer risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 10, 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.

Simple test helps predict heart attack risk

Researchers found that up to 45% of individuals without known heart disease had abnormal ankle brachial index values, indicating peripheral arterial disease. This could improve cardiovascular risk prediction and identify high-risk patients for intensive medical therapy.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 10, 2009

Teenage stress has implications for adult health

A study by UCLA researchers found that teenage stress is associated with higher levels of inflammation, a potential indicator for cardiovascular disease. Daily interpersonal stress experienced during high school years was linked to elevated CRP levels even among healthy teens.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

An age-old story

A unique exhibition showcases video clips of younger and older people reflecting on life and growing old, revealing surprising experiences and challenges to common stereotypes. The event also invites the public to record their own digital stories on ageing, exploring the potential of technology in social sciences research.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 10, 2009

Brain damage found in cognitively normal people with Alzheimer's marker

A study by Washington University School of Medicine found that individuals with lower levels of amyloid beta 42 in their cerebrospinal fluid had reduced whole brain volumes, suggesting early brain damage. The results suggest that Alzheimer's disease may harm the brain for years before symptoms appear.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 10, 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.

Breath or urine analysis may detect cancer, diabetes

Researchers are developing a sensor that analyzes breath or urine samples for volatile markers indicating disease. These markers can be used as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for conditions like breast cancer, lung cancer, diabetes and asthma.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 10, 2009

Oh baby, interventional radiology makes childbirth safer

Minimally invasive treatments using embolization effectively control life-threatening bleeding in women after C-sections, reducing the need for blood transfusions and hospital stays. Interventional radiology also helps women with invasive placenta by stopping excessive bleeding and potentially eliminating the need for a hysterectomy.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 10, 2009

Inadequacy of current guidelines for sexually transmitted infections

A Brazilian study found that current guidelines for sexually transmitted infections are woefully inadequate, with only 32% of infected women correctly identified using the World Health Organization's risk assessment score. The researchers recommend rapid and less costly diagnostic tests to control the spread of STIs in adolescents.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMar 10, 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.

Screening tests show promising results for the early detection of ovarian cancer

The largest randomised trial of ovarian cancer screening has shown that both the CA125 blood test and transvaginal ultrasound screening strategies are capable of detecting early stage ovarian cancers. The study detected almost half of all cancers in stage I/II, with a significant improvement in specificity for multimodal screening.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateMar 10, 2009

Brighten up! Paint study could save states millions

A North Carolina State University study reveals painted road markings outperform thermoplastics in reflecting headlights, helping states comply with federal safety standards and reduce painting costs. The research found that paint reflects more light when driven in the direction of application, saving states millions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPublic Works Management & Policy·DateMar 10, 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.

Promising 3-year data: Saving limbs with drug-eluting stents

Researchers found that drug-eluting stents significantly improved patency rates and reduced restenosis in patients with critical limb ischemia. At three years, 60% of treated arteries remained open in the drug-eluting stent group, compared to 10% in the bare-metal stent group.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 10, 2009

'Seeing' stem cells helps in fight against peripheral arterial disease

Researchers have successfully tracked and confirmed the survival of stem cells in the body using a firefly-like bioluminescence imaging agent. This innovative technique enables precise targeting of stem cell delivery to specific blood vessels, opening new hope for treating peripheral arterial disease.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 10, 2009

Small molecules block cancer gene

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine identified three small molecules that block the activity of Stat 3, a key enzyme in cancer cell survival. The compounds showed promise in inducing programmed cell death in breast cancer cells, offering new hope for cancer treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 10, 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.

Why we hate politics

Leading experts Colin Hay and Gerry Stoker say politics has become 'depoliticised' due to key decisions being handed over to independent bodies. They argue that politicians have lost trust in their ability to govern effectively and in the collective interest, leading to a disenchantment with the conduct of politics.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 10, 2009

Nanotech coating could lead to better brain implants to treat diseases

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a nanotech coating that can help brain implants operate longer and improve treatment for various diseases. The coating, made of three components, enables electrodes to interface more smoothly with the brain, reducing tissue damage and improving signal transmission.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 10, 2009

Study shows that maintenance rituximab is useful for advanced indolent lymphoma

A new study has found that maintenance rituximab therapy improves progression-free survival in patients with stage III-IV indolent lymphoma. The treatment showed significant benefits, including a 22% improvement in disease response and a 68% three-year progression-free survival rate.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 10, 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.

Study suggests salt might be 'nature's antidepressant'

Researchers found that rats deficient in sodium chloride shied away from pleasurable activities, leading to a potential link between salt cravings and depression. High salt intake contributes to high blood pressure and other health problems, but the study suggests salt may have a mood-elevating effect.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateMar 10, 2009

Noisy workplaces can make workers deaf

A University of Montreal study reveals that over 60% of Quebec's manufacturing sector workers are exposed to noise levels exceeding the norm, increasing work-related accidents and road collisions. Workers with hearing losses face a 7% greater risk of injury.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

Tissue-cultured smallpox vaccine appears promising

A study found that a tissue-cultured smallpox vaccine elicited high levels of seroconversion and an effective booster response in adults, with no severe adverse events reported. The vaccine's safety and immunogenicity were demonstrated in both previously vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 10, 2009
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Study finds pay for performance stimulates changes in medical practice

A RAND Corporation study found that pay-for-performance programs have led to changes in medical practice, including the adoption of electronic medical records and tracking of physician performance. However, health plans and purchasers believe that more substantial quality gains require higher incentives.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 10, 2009

Nice guys can finish first and so can their teams!

A new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found consistently cooperative actors can shape group behavior, leading to increased productivity and economic efficiency. The findings challenge common assumptions about human cooperation in situations with short-term incentives.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMar 10, 2009

Nanotubes find niche in electric switches

Researchers at Rice University and the University of Oulu discovered that carbon nanotube brush contacts can significantly reduce resistance in electrical commutators, leading to improved performance and reduced energy loss. The study found a 10-fold decrease in resistance compared to traditional copper-carbon composite brushes.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 10, 2009

Tall tale of giant stingray circles the globe

Biologist Zeb Hogan sets the record straight about a purported record-breaking 771-pound stingray, saying it was never weighed. The fish, caught in central Thailand, is estimated to weigh between 550-770 pounds and may be the world's largest freshwater fish.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·DateMar 10, 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.

'Suspending asthma treatment a bad option for expectant mothers': Study

Pregnant women with asthma are at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely if they stop taking their medication. According to a University of Montreal study, women who interrupt their asthma treatment also experience an increased probability of developing hypertension during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalRespiratory Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

Teenage stress has implications for adult health

A study by UCLA researchers found that teenage stress is associated with higher levels of inflammation, which can lead to cardiovascular disease. Daily interpersonal stress experienced during high school years was linked to elevated CRP levels in healthy teens.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

What's in a name? Perhaps more (or less) money

A study published in the Journal of Labor Economics found that immigrants to Sweden who change their foreign-sounding names experience an increase in earnings, with African, Asian, and Slavic immigrants seeing a 141% rise. The study suggests that name changes improve job interview chances and employment probabilities.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateMar 10, 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.