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Science News for November 16, 2009


Watching Lyme disease-causing microbes move in ticks

Scientists at the University of Connecticut Health Center have visualized the movement of Lyme disease-causing microbes within feeding ticks. The study found that these microbes undergo a biphasic mode of dissemination, first forming networks of nonmotile organisms and then becoming motile invasive organisms.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 16, 2009

UCI researchers create compound that boosts anti-inflammatory fat levels

Researchers at UCI discovered a way to boost palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) levels, a potent anti-inflammatory substance. The PEA-boosting compound shows wide-scale promise as an immune-response drug treatment for allergies, illnesses and injuries.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 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.

Protecting the future: How plant stem cells guard against genetic damage

Research by Nick Fulcher and Robert Sablowski found that plant stem cells are sensitive to DNA damage and can detect defects, triggering cell death to prevent them from being passed on. This mechanism helps protect plants against genetic damage caused by environmental stresses such as drought, high salinity, and hazardous chemicals.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2009

Accidental discovery produces durable new blue pigment for multiple applications

Chemists at Oregon State University have discovered a new blue pigment based on manganese that is safer to produce, more durable, and environmentally friendly. The compound can survive extreme temperatures and resist acid, making it suitable for various applications such as art, inkjet printers, and automobiles.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 16, 2009

Resuscitation and survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest nearly double

The VCU Medical Center and Richmond Ambulance Authority partnership has improved resuscitation and survival rates for cardiac arrest patients by training paramedics to lower body temperature in the field and using high-tech strategies. The strategy resulted in a two-fold improvement in return of spontaneous circulation and an increase ...

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·DateNov 16, 2009
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Unrealistic optimism prompts risky behavior

Research on 800 college students found that those with smaller drinking problem chances were more likely to experience problems, contrary to the idea that optimism motivates health care. The study suggests that unrealistic optimism may actually curb risky health behaviors.

SourceSAGE·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 16, 2009

Study pits man v. machine in piecing together 425-million-year-old jigsaw

A new study compares expert identification and computer analysis in reconstructing ancient fossils from hundreds of thousands of jumbled pieces. The research found that specialized experts provided the most reliable identifications, while less experienced palaeontologists made more mistakes.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPalaeontology·DateNov 16, 2009

Women suffering sudden cardiac arrest have lower prevalence of structural heart disease than men

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that women are less likely to exhibit signs of structural heart disease, which is a precursor to fatal cardiac arrest. This means that fewer women may be eligible for current treatments that can prevent sudden cardiac arrest.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 16, 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.

Text message reminders may encourage sunscreen use

Daily text-message reminders significantly increased sunscreen application among participants over a six-week period. The study found that adherence rates were 56.1% with daily reminders compared to 30% without reminders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateNov 16, 2009

New funding will stimulate alternative energy research

The Laboratory will provide expertise and technological tools to four geothermal projects with Pueblo of Jemez, New Mexico Tech, and the University of Utah. Los Alamos researchers will assist in characterizing geothermal springs and developing new chemical tracers to determine heat transfer characteristics.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·DateNov 16, 2009

Migraine raises risk of most common form of stroke

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that migraine headaches are associated with more than two-fold higher chances of ischemic stroke. Women with migraines have a particularly high risk, with a 2.9 times higher risk compared to men.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateNov 16, 2009

First ever large-scale study of ketamine users published

A large-scale study of ketamine users found that heavy users experienced impaired verbal memory, forgetfulness, and difficulty recalling conversations. The study also revealed that occasional ketamine use does not lead to prolonged harms to cognitive function, but frequent use can have negative effects.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateNov 16, 2009

UT's Kraken named world's third fastest computer, ORNL's Jaguar is No. 1

The University of Tennessee supercomputer Kraken has been ranked as the world's third fastest computer and holds the title of the world's fastest academic supercomputer. With its combined computing power with Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Jaguar, East Tennessee is now firmly established as a center for supercomputing activities.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·DateNov 16, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bacterial 'ropes' tie down shifting Southwest

Researchers discovered that certain cyanobacteria species have evolved rope-building traits to resist erosion and stabilize soil substrates in arid environments. This adaptation allows them to thrive in areas where other microbes would struggle to survive.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 16, 2009

An often overlooked protein actually a potent regulator of cardiac hypertrophy

A protein long thought secondary to stressors like hypertension is actually a primary regulator according to researchers. Knocking out GSK-3alpha causes significant hypertrophy in mice models. The findings also suggest GSK-3alpha as a positive regulator of the beta-adrenergic system, potentially helping failing hearts pump better.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·DateNov 16, 2009

Glimpsing a greener future

A University of California, Irvine computer model forecasts improved air quality in the Greater Los Angeles area if 75% of drivers switch to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles by 2060. The model suggests a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and lower levels of soot and ozone.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 16, 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.

Study shows link between influenza virus and fever

A study by University of Bonn researchers has found a link between the influenza virus and fever, revealing that the immune system's RIG-I protein plays a key role in triggering high temperatures. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating severe viral infections.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 16, 2009

Text message reminders can encourage healthy action

A new study led by UC Davis Health System dermatologist April Armstrong found that daily text messages reminding people to apply sunscreen increased its use by nearly twice as much as those who did not receive such messages. The study aimed to explore the potential of text messaging to encourage healthy habits in patients, and its find...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateNov 16, 2009

Surgical errors remain a challenge in and out of the operating room

An analysis of surgical adverse events at Veterans Health Administration Medical Centers found that communication problems are the leading cause of errors, often occurring early in procedures. The study highlights the need for earlier communication based on crew resource management to prevent surgical adverse events.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateNov 16, 2009

Don't be happy, be worried: Sports fans need dose of negative

Researchers found that fans who experienced negative emotions during the game thought it was more thrilling and suspenseful. The study suggests that both positive and negative emotions contribute to entertainment and enjoyment, with negative emotions acting independently and together.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Communication·DateNov 16, 2009

Acute heart attack patients receiving high ionizing radiation dose

A large study found acute heart attack patients received an average of 14.5 millisieverts of ionizing radiation, equivalent to 725 chest X-rays, during their hospital stay. Physicians may be unaware of cumulative dose accumulation from tests and should consider radiation exposure when diagnosing and treating heart attacks.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 16, 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.

Finding a protective mechanism for retinal cells could save sight

Researchers at Yale University have identified a novel protective mechanism in photoreceptors that could help preserve vision in people with eye diseases. The study found that the activation of CREB1/ATF1 is part of this pathway, which was triggered by stress and can be activated by certain drugs.

SourceYale University·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 16, 2009

UT Southwestern scientist begins to unravel what makes pandemic H1N1 tick

The study found major genetic differences between pandemic H1N1 and seasonal flu strains, potentially explaining why children are more susceptible. This difference in molecular makeup may contribute to the lower incidence of H1N1 in older adults due to pre-existing immunity.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 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.

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.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

The US Preventive Services Task Force now recommends against routine breast cancer screening for women under 50 due to insufficient evidence. However, women between 40-49 at high risk should discuss biennial mammography with their doctor. The task force also suggests changing the screening interval from one year to two until age 74.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 16, 2009

Study links genetic variation to individual empathy, stress levels

A genetic variation in oxytocin's receptor has been linked to both empathetic ability and stress reactivity in a study of college students. Those with the GG allele showed lower heart rate responses to stress tests and performed better on a test measuring empathy.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 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.

UTMB researchers find inflammation critical in aortic dissection

Researchers found that inflammation is critical in aortic dissection and interleukin-6 plays key role. Studies using mice and human samples validate findings, providing new insights into underlying mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 16, 2009

Pilot study relates phthalate exposure to less-masculine play by boys

A pilot study of 145 preschool children found that higher phthalate exposure was associated with less male-typical play, such as trucks and rough-and-tumble play. The study suggests that fetal exposure to anti-androgens like phthalates may alter masculine brain development.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Andrology·DateNov 16, 2009

First near-total face and upper-jaw transplant appears successful

A groundbreaking face and upper-jaw transplant has successfully integrated donor tissue with no long-term rejection, enabling the recipient to regain senses of smell and taste. The procedure, performed on a patient with extensive damage from postoperative scarring and blood vessel depletion, demonstrates the feasibility of facial trans...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Facial Plastic Surgery·DateNov 16, 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.

Are sterile mosquitoes the answer to malaria elimination?

A new supplement reviews the history and application of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) in eliminating malaria. SIT involves releasing sterile male mosquitoes to wipe out a pest population, which can be effective against Anopheles mosquitoes that spread malaria.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMalaria Journal·DateNov 16, 2009

Ancient high-altitude trees grow faster as temperatures rise

A recent study found that ancient high-altitude bristlecone pines in the western US are experiencing unprecedented growth rates due to rising temperatures. Trees growing near treeline, typically at elevations above 11,000 feet, showed wider annual growth rings from 1951 to 2000 compared to previous centuries.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2009

New study links vitamin D deficiency to cardiovascular disease and death

A recent study by researchers at Intermountain Medical Center found that patients with low levels of vitamin D were more likely to develop coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. The study followed 27,686 patients over a year and found that those with very low levels of vitamin D were 77% more likely to die.

SourceIntermountain Medical Center·DateNov 16, 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.

Skin color gives clues to health

The study found that rosier skin appears healthier due to increased blood flow, while golden or 'yellow-toned' skin may indicate higher antioxidant levels from a healthy diet. This discovery suggests that nutrition plays a crucial role in achieving the most desirable complexion.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Journal of Primatology·DateNov 16, 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.

Research highlights need to address hemophilia in developing world

Research highlights the need to address hemophilia treatment disparities in developing countries. A new study from North Carolina State University found that prevalence of hemophilia A has increased over time due to improved treatments, but access to life-saving clotting factor VIII remains severely limited.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHaemophilia·DateNov 16, 2009

K-State patents enabling technology for spread-spectrum systems

Researchers at Kansas State University developed an algorithm that enables next-generation smart adaptive radios and makes radars more effective by customizing the coding used in transmitting signals. The algorithm can be applied to various systems employing spread spectrum techniques, including cellular, satellite, and wireless networks.

SourceKansas State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications·DateNov 16, 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.

Uninsured more likely to die after trauma

According to a recent study published in Archives of Surgery, uninsured patients are more likely to die after trauma than those with health insurance. The study analyzed records from the National Trauma Data Bank and found that uninsured patients had a higher mortality rate even after controlling for age, sex, race, and injury severity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateNov 16, 2009

New cause of osteoporosis: Mutation in a miroRNA

A new cause of osteoporosis has been identified: a mutation in the miR-2861 precursor that blocks expression of this crucial microRNA. This microRNA promotes bone formation and its absence is linked to primary osteoporosis in humans.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 16, 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.

Volatile gas could turn Rwandan lake into a freshwater time bomb

Scientists are concerned about the buildup of carbon dioxide and methane gas in Lake Kivu, which could lead to a catastrophic explosion. The lake's unique combination of geological features and lack of circulation makes it vulnerable to disturbances, posing a threat to the approximately 2 million people living nearby.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateNov 16, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: Nov. 16, 2009

Researchers have identified a microRNA (miR-2861) that regulates bone formation, and its mutation is linked to primary osteoporosis. In addition, studies on Lyme disease transmission revealed a biphasic mode of dissemination by Borrelia burgdorferi microbes within ticks.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 16, 2009

New climate treaty could put species at risk

A new UN climate treaty may inadvertently increase the risk of extinction for some species as governments prioritize reducing deforestation in high-carbon forests. The REDD scheme aims to curb carbon emissions by financially rewarding tropical countries that reduce forest clearance.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 16, 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.

The future of private equity

Steve Kaplan predicts lower default rates and higher recoveries in private equity deals due to increased efficiency and operating value. The industry can prevent overpriced deals by promoting larger equity commitments from financial sponsors.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Corporate Finance·DateNov 16, 2009

HIV vaccine failure probably caused by virus used, says new research

Researchers found that people who had previously built up immunity to the adenovirus used in the trial had a higher risk of infection with HIV after receiving the vaccine. The study suggests that other adenovirus-based vaccines, such as those for tuberculosis and malaria, may also be at risk due to the same immune system reaction.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 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.

Immune system of healthy adults may be better prepared than expected to fight 2009 H1N1 influenza

A new study found that healthy adults have a level of protective immune memory against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. This immunity can blunt the severity of infection and provide some protection. The findings may explain why younger children are more severely affected by the pandemic.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 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.

Analyzing structural brain changes in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers developed a fast and accurate method to quantify subtle brain volume loss in Alzheimer's patients, outperforming existing measures. The new technique identifies changes in memory regions, particularly the entorhinal cortex, as sensitive markers for early disease stages.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2009

Marker of oxidative stress predicts heart disease outcomes

Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a substance in the blood that may predict an individual's risk for heart disease. High levels of cystine, an oxidized form of the amino acid cysteine, were found to be twice as likely to result in a heart attack or death over a few years.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateNov 16, 2009

Right-handed chimpanzees provide clues to the origin of human language

Research suggests that the left hemisphere's dominance in humans may stem from ancestral gestural communication, with right-handed gestures in chimpanzees indicating a similar lateralization. This study supports the idea that speech evolved from a gestural system and shares key features with human language.

SourceElsevier·JournalCortex·DateNov 16, 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.

Growth spurt in tree rings prompts questions about climate change

Recent decades saw a significant increase in bristlecone pine growth, with wider rings than at any time in the last 3,700 years. The research suggests that warmer temperatures play a key role in this surge in growth, particularly for trees near treeline.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2009

Imaging techniques may help predict response to head and neck cancer treatment

A study found that combining positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET-CT) scans six to eight weeks after chemoradiotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer can identify patients who will respond to treatment. The test also showed high sensitivity and specificity in detecting residual disease and distant metastases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateNov 16, 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.

Sleep deprivation negatively affects split-second decision making, study shows

A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers found that moderate sleep deprivation can lead to a decline in information-integration thought processes, critical for quick decisions. This affects individuals who shift from an automatic process to a more controlled approach, leading to negative effects on performance.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalSLEEP·DateNov 16, 2009

Bladder cancer risks increase over time for smokers

A new study found that smoking is associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer, which progresses over time. The study showed that even smoking fewer cigarettes per day for more years may be more harmful than smoking more cigarettes per day for fewer years.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 16, 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.

Medical establishment prevents nurses from assuming new roles

A new study published in Recherches Sociographiques found that Quebec nurses are still underutilized and lack decision-making power. Physicians continue to hold significant influence over nursing roles, despite advances in training and education for specialized nurse practitioners and oncology nurse navigators.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalRecherches sociographiques·DateNov 16, 2009

Investigating muscle repair, scientists follow their noses

Scientists have found that odor-detecting tools in the nose, specifically MOR23, aid muscle cells' repair process. The receptor regulates cell migration and adhesion to form long fibers, offering potential new treatments for muscular dystrophies.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 16, 2009

Structured reporting software creates less complete and accurate radiology reports than free text

A new study published in Radiology found that using standardized words and phrases from a pull-down menu actually decreased the completeness and accuracy of radiology reports. Researchers tested two groups of residents on different reporting methods, finding that structured software resulted in less complete and accurate reports.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalRadiology·DateNov 16, 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.

Nanoparticles used in common household items caused genetic damage in mice

A study by UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found TiO2 nanoparticles in cosmetics, sunscreen, and other products cause DNA breaks, chromosomal damage, and inflammation in mice. The researchers suggest limiting nanoparticle exposure to prevent potential health hazards.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 16, 2009

Playing active video games can equal moderate intensity exercise

Research suggests that active Wii sports and Wii fit activities can increase energy expenditure to levels comparable to moderately intense exercise. The study found that some activities, such as boxing and single-arm stand, require high energy expenditures of up to 5.6 METs.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 16, 2009