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Science News for May 27, 2009


Lombardi scientist brings 'Dream Team' breast cancer research effort to GUMC

V. Craig Jordan, a renowned breast cancer scientist, has assembled a team of top researchers to tackle the complexities of breast cancer through a $73.7 million grant from Stand Up To Cancer. The 'Dream Team' aims to accelerate cancer treatment within three years by understanding the molecular diversity of human breast cancer.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateMay 27, 2009

Evidence of macroscopic quantum tunneling detected in nanowires

A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has demonstrated macroscopic quantum tunneling in ultrathin superconducting nanowires. They observed a process called quantum phase slip, where packs of electrons tunnel together from higher to lower current states. This finding provides evidence that quantum mechanics governs large s...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 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.

People with parents who fight are more likely to have mental health problems in later life

Research published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health reveals that adults who witnessed interparental violence as children are more likely to experience depression, intimate partner violence, and alcohol dependence. The study highlights the importance of early prevention and screening for domestic violence.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMay 27, 2009

Yale study: Most polluted ecosystems recoverable

A Yale analysis of 240 studies found that forest ecosystems recover in 42 years, ocean bottoms in less than 10 years, and those affected by human-induced disturbances recover faster than natural events. The study suggests that restoration can become a key tool for conservation organizations to protect habitats.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 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.

First 'nanorust' field test slated in Mexico

The first field test of Rice University's 'nanorust' technology, a low-cost method for removing arsenic from drinking water, will begin later this year in Guanajuato, Mexico. The technology uses tiny iron oxide particles to naturally bind with arsenic and can be used in sand filters to treat groundwater.

SourceRice University·DateMay 27, 2009

Type 1 diabetes cases in children under 5 to double by 2020

According to a new study, type 1 diabetes cases in children under five years are expected to double by 2020 if current trends continue. The researchers found an overall increase of 3.9% per year, with the highest rates seen in children under 5 and those between 10-14 years old.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 27, 2009

When is it safe to hire someone with a criminal record?

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers estimates that after five years of staying clean, an individual with a criminal record is no greater risk of committing another crime. The study suggests it may be safe to hire ex-offenders with clean records, providing employers with data to inform their hiring decisions.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCriminology·DateMay 27, 2009

Sharing surgical lessons from the Canadian field hospital in Afghanistan

The article highlights the importance of sharing surgical knowledge between military and civilian surgeons to prepare for disasters. Canadian physician Dr. Vivian McAlister shares his experience working at a field hospital in Afghanistan and emphasizes the benefits of 'damage control resuscitation' techniques in saving lives.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalCanadian Journal of Surgery·DateMay 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.

Dementia drugs may put some patients at risk, Queen's study shows

A Queen's University study found that cholinesterase inhibitors can cause slowed heart rates, fainting episodes, and increased risks of permanent pacemaker implants and hip fractures in patients with dementia. The study suggests that people at high risk should reassess their medication regimen.

SourceQueen's University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2009

Unsafe neighborhoods disable the elderly

Research suggests that even perceiving one's neighborhood as unsafe can be hazardous for elder health, leading to mobility disability. The study found a strong correlation between perceived danger and actual violent crime rates.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMay 27, 2009

Why some prostate cancer returns

A recent study found that men with low oxygen levels in their prostate tumor are more likely to experience a return of prostate cancer after treatment. Researchers say this finding could lead to personalized treatment approaches, including combination therapies and non-invasive methods for detecting oxygen levels in tumors.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateMay 27, 2009

Common migraine pain condition also prevalent in cluster headache

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that half of patients with cluster headaches experience cutaneous allodynia, a common migraine pain condition. This discovery suggests overlap in mechanisms for pain between migraines and cluster headaches, potentially leading to new treatment implications.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalThe Journal of Headache and Pain·DateMay 27, 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.

NSF announces funding for Alaska Region Research Vessel

The Alaska Region Research Vessel (ARRV) will support scientific research in high-latitude waters, collecting sediment samples and hosting remotely operated vehicles. The vessel will enable scientists to study global issues like sea-level rise and climate change affecting Alaska's fisheries and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateMay 27, 2009

Development of DNA drugs gives hope to lupus patients

Researchers have developed DNA-like compounds that effectively inhibit cells responsible for chronic autoimmune condition lupus. The compounds, known as class R inhibitory oligonucleotides (INH-ODNs), selectively reduce the activity of autoreactive B cells and dendritic cells, delaying death and reducing kidney damage in mice with lupus.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMay 27, 2009

History of hyperactivity off-base, says researcher

Hyperactivity disorder as understood today is a relatively recent phenomenon, says researcher Matthew Smith. He argues that historical figures like Mozart were not necessarily considered hyperactive due to societal context.

SourceCanadian Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences·DateMay 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.

Geographic isolation drives the evolution of a hot springs microbe

Researchers found that Sulfolobus islandicus populations are more diverse than thought, with variable genomes evolving rapidly and adapting to local environments. The findings suggest a limited genetic reservoir stored in viruses and other elements, contradicting the idea of a universal gene pool.

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

Stand Up to Cancer awards $73.6 million for novel, groundbreaking cancer research

Five multi-disciplinary research teams will pursue innovative cancer treatments, combining laboratory scientists and physicians with a focus on rapid progress and collaboration. The funding model aims to eliminate barriers to creativity and collaboration, enabling diverse experts from institutions across the US to work together.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateMay 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.

Team develops DNA compounds that could help treat lupus

Researchers developed DNA-like compounds that effectively inhibit cells responsible for systemic lupus erythematosus, a potentially groundbreaking treatment. The findings demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects of class R inhibitory oligonucleotides and could lead to new therapies.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMay 27, 2009

Air Force funds new generation of energy efficient UAVs

The Air Force Office of Scientific Research is funding a project to integrate solar power into UAV materials. Researchers aim to develop lightweight and compact drones with longer flight times using organic semi-conductor coated fibers.

SourceAir Force Office of Scientific Research·DateMay 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.

Berkeley Lab scientist co-leads breast cancer 'dream team'

A team of scientists and clinicians co-led by Joe Gray and Dennis Slamon will study three subtypes of breast cancer: estrogen receptor positive, HER2 positive, and triple negative. Their goal is to match a tumor's genetic profile with the best therapy, using cutting-edge biological, genomic, and computational techniques.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateMay 27, 2009

Sea-level rise may pose greatest threat to Northeast US, Canada

New research suggests that moderate to high rates of ice melt from Greenland may shift ocean circulation by about 2100, causing sea levels off the northeast coast of North America to rise by 30-51 centimeters (12-20 inches) more than other coastal areas. This could lead to significant impacts on major northeastern cities.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 27, 2009

Lesson from the past for surviving climate change

A new study examines how past Caribbean communities coped with rising sea levels, crop failures, and extreme weather. Researchers found that people adapted by building houses on stilts, diversifying food production, and relocating to cave complexes during hurricanes.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateMay 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.

Landmark UNC-led study finds radiofrequency ablation is effective treatment for Barrett's esophagus

A landmark UNC-led study finds radiofrequency ablation significantly effective in treating dysplasia in people with Barrett's esophagus, eradicating abnormal cells and reducing cancer risk. The procedure showed high rates of complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia and progression to disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 27, 2009

Study shows CGM devices also benefit people with type 1 diabetes

A study found that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices enable people with excellent blood sugar control to continue managing their diabetes while reducing the frequency of low blood sugar events. CGM devices helped participants spend more time in the target blood sugar range and reduced biochemical hypoglycemia.

SourceJDRF·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 27, 2009

What goes down, must come up: Earth's leaky mantle

Researchers at Rice University and Harvard University developed a new model to explain how noble gases are lost from the Earth's interior during mantle convection. The model suggests that both the upper and lower mantle are involved in convection, but they affect each other differently.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2009

Triage technology with a Star Trek twist

The US Department of Homeland Security is developing a new triage tool called the Standoff Patient Triage Tool (SPTT), which uses Laser Doppler Vibrometry technology to take vital signs quickly from a distance.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateMay 27, 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.

XMM-Newton takes astronomers to a black hole's edge

Using XMM-Newton's new data, astronomers have mapped the region around a supermassive black hole, estimating its mass at 3-5 million solar masses. The observations also reveal rapid spinning and accretion rates that verge on theoretical limits.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2009

A connected world gives viruses the edge

A new study found that parasites evolve to be less aggressive when scattered among isolated clusters of hosts, favoring the survival of the group. This discovery suggests that as human activity makes the world more connected, natural selection will favor more virulent and dangerous parasites.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2009

Technique eradicates problems in most patients with Barrett's esophagus

A new radiofrequency ablation procedure has shown promise in eliminating signs of Barrett's esophagus and reducing the risk of cancer progression. In a multicenter trial, patients treated with the procedure experienced significant reductions in dysplasia and abnormal cells.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 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.

New rotors could help develop nanoscale generators

Researchers have successfully created a rotating molecular rotor on a gold surface, creating an off-axis rotation that mimics the property of machines like electric motors and generators. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of machines for generating currents at small scales.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 2009

Sulphur in just one hair could blow a terrorist's alibi

A new method uses laser ablation and multicollector ICP-MS to detect small variations in sulphur isotopes in hair, which can be linked to a person's geographical movements. The technique has been tested on volunteers with different diets and origins, showing promise for tracking international criminals.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateMay 27, 2009

Shatter-resistant brassicas

Researchers have developed a method to prevent pod shattering in oilseed rape, reducing seed loss by up to 70% and improving harvest efficiency. By controlling hormone production, scientists can seal seeds inside pods, addressing a major issue in farming this high-value crop.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2009

Male or female? Coloring provides gender cues

A recent study published in the Journal of Vision found that subtle coloring patterns around the eyes and mouth play a crucial role in rapid gender discrimination. Researchers discovered that the shades of reds and greens in these areas lead to faster gender identification, contradicting previous assumptions about facial features.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Vision·DateMay 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.

Brain activation can predict the strategies people use to make risky decisions

Neuroscientists at Duke University Medical Center used fMRI to study brain activity while participants made economic decisions. The study found that brain regions associated with rational processing were active when subjects used simplifying strategies, contradicting traditional notions of rational vs. irrational decision-making.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateMay 27, 2009

Study: Teachers choose schools according to student race

A study found that high-quality teachers tend to leave schools with large minority populations, suggesting a direct relationship between student race and teacher quality. This relationship may be a substantial contributor to the black-white achievement gap in American schools.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateMay 27, 2009

City rats loyal to their 'hoods, scientists discover

A study finds that inner city rodents form distinct neighborhoods, with most spending majority of their lives within a city block. This understanding provides information on which populations may spread disease, highlighting the need to target entire families for eradication efforts.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 27, 2009

Melting Greenland ice sheets may threaten Northeast United States, Canada

Research suggests that moderate to high Greenland ice melt rates could drive 4-12 inches of additional water towards heavily populated areas in the northeastern US and Canada, on top of average global sea level rise. This could lead to significant impacts on the northeast US coast by 2100.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 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.

Worldwide report shows increase in assisted reproduction: 250,000 babies (approximately) born in 1 year

The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology reports an estimated 219,000 to 246,000 babies born through assisted reproductive technology (ART) globally each year. ART procedures have increased by over 25% in two years, with significant variations in availability and quality between countries.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMay 27, 2009