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Science News for November 2, 2009


Science begins at the world's most powerful X-ray laser

The Linac Coherent Light Source has embarked on pioneering research in physics, structural biology, energy science, chemistry, and more. Researchers have successfully observed atomic physics phenomena with unprecedented detail, creating stop-action movies of molecules in motion.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateNov 2, 2009

New study finds shock-wave therapy for unhealed fractured bones

Researchers from American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found shock-wave therapy equally effective as surgery for healing nonunions. The study showed that extracorporeal shock-wave therapy stimulated bone healing within six months and provided comparable outcomes to surgery even two years later.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 2, 2009

There's a speed limit to the pace of evolution, Penn biologists say

Researchers at Penn University developed a new theory that explains the pace of evolution and determines the speed at which an organism adapts. The study predicts that some organisms, including humans, may not evolve indefinitely and that populations can accrue mutations at a constant rate even under Darwinian selection.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study examines associations between antibiotic use during pregnancy and birth defects

A study examined associations between antibiotic use during pregnancy and birth defects, finding that certain antibiotics like sulfonamides and nitrofurantoins may be associated with severe birth defects. Many commonly used antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, were not linked to an increased risk of birth defects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateNov 2, 2009

Teeth grinding linked to sleep apnea

A study by Baylor College of Medicine found nearly 1 in 4 patients with OSA suffers from nighttime teeth grinding, especially in men and Caucasians. Untreated bruxism can lead to excessive tooth wear, jaw pain, and sleep disturbances.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateNov 2, 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.

Study reveals a 'missing link' in immune response to disease

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered that T cell receptors are mechanosensors that rely on sheer mechanical force to shift between scanning and fighting modes. This fundamental understanding may lead to the development of precisely targeted therapies for cancers and infections, eliminating harsh side effects.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 2, 2009

Cause of common chronic diarrhea revealed in new research

A common type of chronic diarrhoea, affecting one in 100 people in the UK, may be caused by a hormone deficiency. The study suggests that bile acid production is linked to decreased levels of Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) in people with the condition.

SourceImperial College London·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateNov 2, 2009

Newly drilled ice cores may be the longest taken from the Andes

Drilled at 17,598ft above sea level in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, the ice cores contain a number of insects and plant materials that may have originated from the Amazon Basin. The cores provide an annually resolvable record of climate conditions, allowing researchers to determine past temperatures and precipitation rates.

SourceOhio State University·DateNov 2, 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.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Family health history disclosure may not improve clinical decision making, according to researchers. Meanwhile, community-based interventions in developing countries have been shown to effectively reduce blood pressure. Early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis may also benefit from conventional DMARD therapy or biologics, but their cost...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 2, 2009

Flipping a photonic shock wave

A team of physicists has directly observed a reverse shock wave of light in a specially tailored structure known as a left-handed metamaterial. This is the first unambiguous experimental demonstration of reversed Cerenkov radiation, a phenomenon predicted over forty years ago.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 2, 2009

Many US children may live in families receiving food stamps

According to a study, nearly half of all American children will reside in households receiving food stamps between ages 1 and 20. The analysis found that poverty and food insecurity are detrimental to a child's health, with the receipt of food stamps serving as a marker of both conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateNov 2, 2009

Hypertension, inflammation common in offspring of Alzheimer's disease patients

Research suggests that high blood pressure and inflammatory markers are more prevalent in middle age among individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease. The study also found that these risk factors cluster within families, highlighting the potential for early interventions to prevent late-onset Alzheimer's disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateNov 2, 2009

Researchers use trident laser to accelerate protons to record energies

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have achieved world-record energies in laser-accelerated particles, accelerating protons to 254 million miles per hour. The technique has potential applications in cancer treatment and is expected to contribute to future advances in modern cancer radiotherapy.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 2, 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.

UM scientists create fruit fly model to help unravel genetics of human diabetes

Researchers at the University of Maryland have created a fruit fly model to study the genetics of human diabetes. The model uses genetic approaches to delete specific genes involved in insulin production, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels and symptoms similar to human Type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

ACC/AHA revised guidelines for the perioperative use of beta blockers to minimize cardiac risk

The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association release updated guidelines recommending the use of beta blockers in high-risk cardiac patients undergoing noncardiac surgery to minimize cardiac risk. The guidelines emphasize careful patient selection, dose adjustment, and monitoring throughout the perioperative period.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 2, 2009

Breakthrough in industrial-scale nanotube processing

Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in industrial-scale nanotube processing, creating a method to produce pure carbon-nanotube fibers that could lead to advances in materials science and nanoelectronics. The process uses chlorosulfonic acid as a solvent, enabling the efficient production of high-quality nanotubes.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 2, 2009

New clues to the Falklands wolf mystery

Researchers compare DNA from museum specimens to that of living canids, revealing the Falklands wolf's closest living relative is the maned wolf. The team also finds a common ancestor at least 70,000 years ago, suggesting the wolves arrived in the islands before humans entered the New World.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 2, 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.

Survey: Awareness of COPD is rising, but understanding is still low

A recent survey found that awareness of COPD is increasing, with 68% of adults aware of the disease. However, only 44% understand that it can be treated, and many at risk remain undiagnosed due to unrecognized symptoms. The NHLBI emphasizes the importance of testing and treatment for those affected.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·DateNov 2, 2009

Packages of care for dementia in low- and middle-income countries

A package of continuing care is essential for managing dementia in LMICs, comprising diagnosis, regular needs assessments, physical health checks, and carer support. The authors highlight the importance of early detection and treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 2, 2009

New therapy gives hope for very severe depression

A new study from University of Bonn suggests that deep brain stimulation can significantly improve depression in half of patients, who had previously not responded to other therapies. The treatment involves implanting electrodes in the nucleus accumbens, a key area of the brain's reward system.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateNov 2, 2009

Study of alternate bearing presents recommendations for citrus growers

Researchers find that removing fruit from 'Pixie' mandarin trees reduces floral intensity of return bloom by inhibiting budbreak. Growers can investigate degrees of fruit thinning or pruning to mitigate alternate bearing, which is exacerbated by holding fruit on the tree to extend commercial harvest period.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateNov 2, 2009

Spider mite predators serve as biological control

Researchers are using two tiny insects, the predatory mite and the lady bug, to control European red mites and two-spotted spider mites in Pennsylvania apple orchards. By reducing pest mite numbers, biological control saves growers millions in integrated pest management costs.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiological Control·DateNov 2, 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.

Wolves, moose and biodiversity: An unexpected connection

Wildlife biologists found that the carcasses of moose killed by wolves at Isle Royale National Park create nutrient-rich hotspots in forest fertility. This discovery highlights an unexpected connection between predator-prey interactions and biochemical processes on the landscape.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEcology·DateNov 2, 2009

Multicenter study led by pitt finds early results of therapy for preemies not sustained

A multicenter study led by the University of Pittsburgh found that inhaled nitric oxide therapy did not significantly improve long-term outcomes for premature newborns with respiratory failure. Despite early promising results, the study revealed no significant improvement in survival rates or neurological function at one year of age.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 2, 2009

Researchers unlock the 'sound of learning' by linking sensory and motor systems

A new study by Yale University researchers reveals that learning to talk alters the way we hear speech sounds, suggesting a two-way street between sensory and motor processing. This finding has major implications for improving speech disorders such as those caused by stroke and Parkinson's disease.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

Modifying neural stem cells improves their therapeutic efficacy

Researchers genetically engineered adult neural stem cells to express anti-inflammatory molecule IL-10, improving functional and pathological recovery from multiple sclerosis. These modified cells induced immunomodulation, nerve cell repair, and production of the nerve cell protective sheath.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 2, 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.

Study reveals second pathway to feeling your heartbeat

Researchers found two independent pathways contributing to feeling one's own heartbeat, contrary to prior assertions. The study used a rare neurological patient and healthy comparison participants to confirm the existence of these pathways, which could have implications for emotion and self-awareness.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 2, 2009

Digital 'plaster' for monitoring vital signs undergoes first clinical trials

Researchers at Imperial College London are conducting a new trial with patients and healthy volunteers to test the digital 'plaster', a disposable device that monitors vital signs in real-time. The technology has the potential to free up doctors' time, improve patient health, and enable early detection of complications.

SourceImperial College London·DateNov 2, 2009

Task force develops new radiation guidelines for brachytherapy

The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) has developed new guidelines for radiation dose delivery and reporting in brachytherapy procedures. The task force aims to provide consistent and reproducible dosimetric information, improving treatment accuracy and patient outcomes.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalMedical Physics·DateNov 2, 2009

Electron self-injection into an evolving plasma bubble

Researchers shed light on electron beam formation by attributing it to the evolution of the plasma bubble shape and nonlinear laser pulse evolution. The discovery is attributed to fine details in 3D simulations, offering a robust mechanism for self-injection and monoenergetic bunch formation.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 2, 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.

Upping the power triggers an ordered helical plasma

Increasing power in RFP fusion device leads to self-organized helical plasma with improved trapping and hotter temperatures. The helical state is spontaneously chosen by the plasma, improving magnetic confinement and renewing fusion prospects.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 2, 2009

Hematologist Arthur Nienhuis named 2009 ASH Mentor Award recipient

Arthur Nienhuis, M.D., of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, received the 2009 ASH Mentor Award for his dedication to mentoring trainees and colleagues. His expertise in bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy paved the way for many advances in hematological disorders.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·DateNov 2, 2009

Women who exit welfare just as likely to marry as women never on welfare

Research shows women exiting welfare have similar marriage rates to those without welfare. The temporary disincentive to marry while receiving benefits may be reduced by allowing spouses' earnings not affect eligibility. Researchers observed over 3,000 women and debunked long-standing debates on the impact of poverty on family values.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateNov 2, 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.

First draft of the pig: Researchers sequence swine genome

A global collaborative effort has produced a first draft of the pig genome, offering insights into breeding practices, disease resistance and human health. The sequencing project involved an international team of scientists and provided a 98% complete sequence that will allow researchers to pinpoint genes useful for pork production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateNov 2, 2009

African desert rift confirmed as new ocean in the making

Scientists confirm volcanic processes in Ethiopian rift are similar to those at world's oceans, suggesting a new sea is forming. The rift tore open along its entire 35-mile length in just days, with magma pushing up through the middle and beginning to 'unzip' it.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 2, 2009

Smokers with common autoimmune disorder at higher risk for skin damage

A recent study published in the Journal of Rheumatology has found a clear link between smoking and skin problems in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The study, led by Dr. Christian A Pineau, reveals that smokers are at higher risk for skin damage, including permanent hair loss and scarring from skin inflammation.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalThe Journal of Rheumatology·DateNov 2, 2009

Race is strong predictor for restless legs syndrome

Non-African-American patients experience restless legs syndrome (RLS) four times more often than African-Americans. Among Caucasians, nearly 2 out of 5 women have RLS, which is the highest incidence among all groups.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateNov 2, 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.

Slimming gene regulates body fat

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a previously unknown gene in fruit flies that controls fat metabolism. The gene, called 'schlank', is structurally similar to genes found in humans and may play a role in energy metabolism. Introducing mouse Lass genes into mutant flies showed promise for new obesity treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 2, 2009

Nicotine patch plus lozenge appears best for smoking cessation

A randomized clinical trial of five different smoking cessation therapies found that a nicotine patch plus a nicotine lozenge was the most effective combination in helping smokers quit. The combination resulted in higher success rates and longer periods of abstinence from smoking compared to other treatments.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateNov 2, 2009

'Ultra-primitive' particles found in comet dust

Researchers found ultra-primitive material with higher abundances of presolar grains, indicating a diverse processing of materials in different comets. This discovery allows for comparison of cosmic processes on a microscopic scale four-and-a-half billion years ago.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateNov 2, 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.

Adapting space-industry technology to treat breast cancer

Researchers are developing a new imaging technique to detect tissue damage in breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. Preliminary results show that the technique can identify changes in skin tissue days before severe reactions occur, potentially allowing for preventative treatment and improved patient outcomes.

SourceRush University Medical Center·DateNov 2, 2009

Robot fish could monitor water quality

Scientists at Michigan State University are developing robotic fish that use advanced materials to swim like fish and monitor water quality. The robots will carry sensors recording temperature, dissolved oxygen, pollutants, and harmful algae, providing a high spatial and temporal resolution of data.

SourceMichigan State University·DateNov 2, 2009

Study lays foundation for more patient access to medical records

Researchers found that patients are dissatisfied with the current system of receiving radiology test results, citing long delays and lack of detail. The study suggests that patients would prefer to have secure online access to their medical records, including detailed results, to improve their care experience.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateNov 2, 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.

The new myths of gifted education

Researchers re-examined 15 myths of gifted education first identified in 1982 and found that all still exist, with several new ones emerging. The study aims to stimulate critical thinking and creative research in the field by helping to 'shake loose' common myths.

SourceSAGE·JournalGifted Child Quarterly·DateNov 2, 2009

UD wins $4.4 million to develop next-generation magnets

The University of Delaware has received a $4.4 million grant from ARPA-E to develop stronger, more efficient permanent magnets for various industries. The project aims to identify new materials that can result in magnets twice as strong as current ones.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateNov 2, 2009

Brain tumors in childhood leave a lasting mark on cognition, life status

Long-term brain tumor survivors in childhood experience ongoing cognitive problems, with lower levels of education, employment, and income compared to siblings and other cancer survivors. Medical complications such as radiation and surgery also play a significant role in these impairments.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalNeuropsychology·DateNov 2, 2009

Developmental drug may help bone fractures heal after radiation exposure

A study by Pitt researchers found that a free-radical scavenger, JP4-039, accelerated bone fracture healing in mice treated with the drug after radiation exposure. This could have significant implications for pediatric cancer patients vulnerable to late effects of radiation on bone growth and development.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

New EUREKA awards fund highly innovative research, promise big payoffs

The National Institutes of Health has awarded $67.4 million in EUREKA grants to support highly innovative research projects that promise significant scientific breakthroughs. These grants will fund research in various fields, including gene therapy for neurological diseases and the study of circadian clocks.

SourceNIH/National Institute of General Medical Sciences·DateNov 2, 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.

Sights and sounds of emotion trigger big brain responses

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences identified a brain region that strongly reacts to emotional faces and voices. The research found that the posterior superior temporal sulcus responds supra-additively to simultaneous visual and auditory emotional stimuli.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

Is the disorder that causes dementia hereditary?

A recent study published in Neurology reveals that nearly 42% of participants with frontotemporal dementia had some family history, while only 10% were affected by an autosomal dominant gene. The study also found that behavioral problems are more likely to be hereditary than language problems.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 2, 2009

Possible origins of pancreatic cancer revealed

Scientists at MIT have discovered that tumors can arise from different types of cells in the pancreas, depending on whether they are injured or inflamed. This finding could lead to new treatments and early diagnosis methods for pancreatic cancer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 2, 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.

Precuneus region of human and monkey brain is divided into 4 distinct regions

Researchers used fMRI to divide the precuneus into four distinct functional regions, finding similarities with monkey brains. This discovery confirms that higher-order association areas have complex architectures preserved across evolution.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 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.

New activity found for a potential anti-cancer agent

Researchers at Texas A&M University have found that PatA inhibits nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), a mechanism that degrades damaged mRNA. This inhibition may lead to cancer cell apoptosis. The study also reveals the potential of a simplified derivative of PatA, DMDAPatA, as an anti-cancer agent.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 2, 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.

Climate variability impacts the deep sea

Researchers warn that climate variability can affect deep-sea ecosystems, potentially disrupting food chains and carbon cycles. Long-term monitoring is crucial to understand the impact of global warming on these vulnerable ecosystems.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

New genetic cause of a fatal immune disorder

Researchers have discovered a new genetic cause of familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (FHL) type 5, a fatal immune disorder. The condition is caused by mutations in the Munc18-2 gene, leading to impaired release of death-inducing molecules from immune cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 2, 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.

Stereotactic radiotherapy stops lung cancer from growing in frail patients

The study found that stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) stopped the growth of lung cancer at its original site for nearly 98% of patients with early non-small cell lung cancer. Researchers also discovered that less than 20% of frail patients experienced a serious decline in health status after treatment.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateNov 2, 2009

Researchers discover links between city walkability and air pollution exposure

A new study reveals that some neighborhoods with high levels of walkability also have low levels of air pollution, while others prioritize one over the other. Neighborhoods designed for walkability often encourage higher daily activity levels, which can mitigate health issues linked to air pollution and physical inactivity.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 2, 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.

Sneezing in times of a flu pandemic

Research found that public sneezing triggers an increased fear of all health threats, even ones unrelated to germs. This phenomenon also influences policy preferences, shifting spending priorities towards flu vaccine production over green jobs.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 2, 2009

Discovery offers potential new pancreatic cancer treatment

Researchers have developed tumor-penetrating microparticles (TPM) to deliver drugs more effectively, targeting both rapid- and slow-growing tumors. TPM has shown promise in treating pancreatic cancer by breaking through barriers and delivering highly concentrated drug doses.

SourceAmerican Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists·DateNov 2, 2009

Lifestyle changes may stave off diabetes for a decade

A study found that sustained modest weight loss can prevent or lower the incidence of type 2 diabetes in people at high risk, delaying diagnosis by about four years. Lifestyle changes also improved cardiovascular risk factors and were particularly beneficial among older adults.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 2, 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 entwined destinies of mankind and leprosy bacteria

A team of scientists analyzed the DNA of ancient remains to discover that Mycobacterium leprae, the leprosy bacterium, has colonized the entire earth due to human travels. The study found that the bacteria's four strains are distributed according to historical population movements.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 2, 2009

The terrible teens of T. rex

Researchers discovered that adolescent tyrannosaurs, including the late juvenile T. rex Jane, engaged in intense combat, as evidenced by puncture wounds on her face. The injuries suggest that Jane was attacked by a fellow young dinosaur, possibly over dominance or territorial disputes.

SourceNorthern Illinois University·JournalPalaios·DateNov 2, 2009

Green is cool, but US land changes generally are not

A new study by researchers at the University of Maryland and Purdue University found that most land-use changes contribute to warming, except for conversion to agricultural use, which results in relative cooling. The study used a novel analytical approach called OMR and confirmed its robustness.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalInternational Journal of Climatology·DateNov 2, 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.

Obesity significantly increases side effects of stereotactic body radiation therapy in lung cancer patients

A new study finds that obesity and diabetes increase the risk of chest pain and skin reactions after stereotactic body radiation therapy. Patients who receive a high dose of radiation to cancer close to the chest wall are more likely to experience these side effects, highlighting the need for further research into reducing radiation-re...

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateNov 2, 2009

Glaciers subject of 3 Penn State grants

Researchers aim to correlate seismic activity with glacier slip using pump tests and measurements of natural seismicity. The projects focus on stability of ice stream grounding zones and role of active subglacial lakes in ice sheet loss.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 2, 2009

NASA's Fermi telescope detects gamma-ray from 'star factories' in other galaxies

Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope detects diffuse gamma-ray emission from star-forming regions in nearby galaxies, suggesting that these regions are the source of cosmic rays. The telescope observes intense gamma-ray emission from a region called 30 Doradus within the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 2, 2009

Disrupting male fertility

Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism underlying the harmful effects of DES on male testis development and function. Neonatal exposure to DES leads to reduced fertility in mice, with NR0B2 deficiency protecting against these effects.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 2, 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.

Growing online sales could lower prices, but also trim choices

Research led by a University of Illinois business professor finds that online sales could lead to lower prices, but also fewer product options. The traditional system of selling through retailers encourages longer product lines, which may dry up as manufacturers turn to direct sales online.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMarketing Science·DateNov 2, 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.

Navy researchers apply science to fire fighting

Navy scientists have successfully tested high expansion foam as a fire suppression system, finding it effective in fighting fires in obstructed spaces. The Navy is also developing alternative firefighting agents, including propelled extinguishing agent technology (PEAT), to replace halon systems and provide weight-saving options for fu...

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateNov 2, 2009

Study finds link between childhood physical abuse and arthritis

A new study by University of Toronto researchers has found a significant association between childhood physical abuse and the development of osteoarthritis in adulthood. Adults who experienced physical abuse as children have a 56% higher odds of developing osteoarthritis compared to those who did not.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateNov 2, 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.

New insights into Australia's unique platypus

Researchers from the University of Adelaide have published unique research data on the world's only monotremes, providing new light on the platypus sex chromosome system. The team discovered a complex mechanism where sex chromosomes pair during sperm development in platypus.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAustralian Journal of Zoology·DateNov 2, 2009

Deep-sea ecosystems affected by climate change

Climate change impacts deep-sea ecosystems by altering food supply and community dynamics. Changes in ocean processes, such as wind-driven upwelling and nutrient delivery, can lead to dramatic year-to-year variations in organic material reaching the seafloor, affecting fish populations like grenadiers.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

Modified Bluetooth speeds up telemedicine

A modified version of the Bluetooth wireless protocol enables faster patient data transfer, reducing connectivity problems in telemedicine. This allows for quicker medical image transfers, such as CT scans, to healthcare providers' personal digital assistants.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Engineering and Informatics·DateNov 2, 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.

Unraveling the mechanisms behind organ regeneration in zebrafish

Researchers at Salk Institute discover essential cellular pathway in zebrafish that enables limb regeneration by activating genes required to build a copy of the lost limb. Histone demethylation switches cells from inactive to active state, turning on genes needed for regeneration.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

Researchers to perform sex change operation on papaya

A team of researchers aims to create a new papaya variety with only hermaphrodite offspring, eliminating the need for costly and labor-intensive seed selection. This breakthrough could significantly improve papaya health while reducing fertilizer and water usage.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateNov 2, 2009

Mending meniscals in children, improving diagnosis and recovery

Meniscal tears in children can often be repaired successfully with appropriate treatment, with a high success rate of 75-90%. Early treatment is crucial to prevent complications and promote long-term health. Diagnosing meniscal tears requires simple physical exams and imaging tests, such as MRI, to accurately assess the injury.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateNov 2, 2009

Radiation after surgery reduces chance of melanoma returning

A recent study found that radiation therapy significantly improves regional recurrence control in melanoma patients who underwent lymphadenectomy. The treatment reduced the risk of cancer returning to the lymph nodes by 12 percentage points compared to observation.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateNov 2, 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.

Where do nanomaterials go in the body?

NC State researchers investigate how engineered nanomaterials interact with biological systems, focusing on fullerenes' size and surface charge effects. The study aims to understand nanoparticles' absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) in the body.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateNov 2, 2009

Sleep apnea therapy improves golf game

A new study found that golfers with obstructive sleep apnea who received nasal positive airway pressure (NPAP) treatment improved their daytime sleepiness scores and lowered their golf handicap by as much as three strokes. The study suggests that the possibility of improving one's golf game may be a significant motivator to improve NPA...

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateNov 2, 2009

Proton therapy is well tolerated in prostate cancer patients

Researchers found proton therapy to have excellent early tolerance with minimal urinary and rectal toxicity. The study showed a low rate of Grade 3 genitourinary and gastrointestinal side effects, with the most common being minor rectal bleeding.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateNov 2, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: Nov. 2, 2009

Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism underlying DES-induced male infertility in mice, which may be linked to increased incidence of human reproductive disorders. The study found that neonatal exposure to DES disrupts the protein NR0B2, leading to reduced fertility and protected males against negative effects.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 2, 2009

UIC researchers have immune cells running in circles

Researchers discovered that neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, lose their direction when the protein p55 is absent. This leads to impaired healing and slower response times to infections.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

Human clinical study finds benefits linked to XanGo Juice

A new study published in Nutrition Journal indicates that XanGo Juice has lowered levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in overweight and obese people, suggesting potential benefits for heart health and diabetes. The juice also showed significant reductions in body fat percentage and BMI scores.

SourcePublicis Consultants | PR·JournalNutrition Journal·DateNov 2, 2009

Stereotactic radiotherapy stops lung cancer from growing in frail patients

Researchers found that nearly 98% of patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer who are unable to undergo surgery experienced no growth of the disease after three years. Additionally, over half of these patients lived for three years after diagnosis, while fewer than 20% experienced a serious decline in health status.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateNov 2, 2009

Data point to some improvements in China's environment

China has seen improvements in forest growth and marine ecosystem health, but severe pollution and biodiversity loss still threaten the country's environment. Despite major government efforts, China faces significant challenges in protecting its rich biodiversity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateNov 2, 2009

Iron controls patterns of nitrogen fixation in the Atlantic

New data from a 10,000-kilometer cruise reveals that iron availability significantly controls the input of fixed nitrogen into the Atlantic Ocean. This finding is crucial for understanding global climate patterns and their potential implications on carbon dioxide sequestration.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 2, 2009

Ineffective monotherapies common in high-burden malarious countries

The majority of malaria endemic countries adopted effective artemisinin combination therapy more than three years ago, but its availability remains low in public and private sectors. Ineffective monotherapies dominate the market share in many countries, with some products costing up to 65 times the minimum daily wage.

SourcePowell Tate·DateNov 2, 2009

Clinical tests begin on medication to correct Fragile X defect

A clinical trial has begun testing a novel compound, STX107, that selectively targets the synaptic defect underlying Fragile X syndrome. The study aims to evaluate safety and tolerability in healthy volunteers, with potential progression to phase 2 trials in adults and pediatric safety assessments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·DateNov 2, 2009

Poorly cleaned public cruise ship restrooms may predict norovirus outbreaks

Researchers found widespread poor compliance with regular cleaning of public restrooms on cruise ships may predict subsequent norovirus infection outbreaks. The study evaluated the thoroughness of disinfection cleaning and found that toilet seats were best-cleaned objects while baby changing tables were least cleaned.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateNov 2, 2009

North Atlantic fish populations shifting as ocean temperatures warm

A study by NOAA researchers found that about half of 36 fish stocks in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean have shifted northward over the last four decades, with some nearly disappearing from U.S. waters as they move farther offshore. Fish species are adapting to changing temperatures by moving to cooler or deeper waters.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateNov 2, 2009

Pitt, US Army team designs new strategy to find drugs to treat neglected infection

A team of researchers from Pitt and Walter Reed Army Institute of Research have identified compounds that hold promise for treating leishmaniasis, a parasitic infection affecting millions worldwide. The newly developed strategy, called HILCES, uses high-throughput screening to identify effective drug candidates.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 2, 2009

Gamma knife treatment for glioblastomas shows promising results

Researchers at University Hospitals Case Medical Center report promising results from a study treating glioblastoma multiforme with Gamma Knife radiosurgery, increasing patient survival rates by almost four months compared to traditional radiotherapy alone.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateNov 2, 2009

Rice U. lab leads hunt for new zeolites

A Rice University lab has discovered over 2.7 million possible structures for molecular sieves, also known as zeolites, which have potential applications in industries such as gasoline production and laundry detergents.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateNov 2, 2009

Snows of Kilimanjaro shrinking rapidly, and likely to be lost

The study reveals a significant ice loss on Mount Kilimanjaro, primarily attributed to rising global temperatures. The ice volume has decreased by roughly equal proportions through thinning and shrinking, with 85% of the ice lost since 1912.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2009

Immune therapy can protect against or treat later lymphoma

Researchers developed an immune system cell therapy that targets Epstein-Barr virus, providing long-term protection to patients with severely compromised immune systems. The therapy, effective for up to nine years, was found to prevent lymphomas associated with EBV infection in over 100 patients.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalBlood·DateNov 2, 2009