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Science News for November 30, 2009


Naked mole rats may hold clues to surviving stroke

Researchers found that naked mole rat brain tissue can survive for over half an hour without oxygen, which could lead to new treatment options for brain injuries caused by heart attacks, strokes, and accidents. This adaptation may also provide insights into how to prevent permanent human brain damage after temporary loss of oxygen.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNeuroreport·DateNov 30, 2009

Big freeze plunged Europe into ice age in months

Researchers found that the Big Freeze was triggered by a sudden freshwater pulse from Lake Agassiz in North America, which diluted the North Atlantic conveyor belt and led to rapid temperature drops. The climate took centuries to recover.

SourceEuropean Science Foundation·DateNov 30, 2009

Patients say 'no thanks' to risky medical treatments

A recent study found that increasing patient responsibility for medical decisions decreases their willingness to accept risky treatments. Patients who were presented with choices reported higher worry about risks and lower uptake of treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateNov 30, 2009

NASA captures Typhoon Nida's clouds from 2 angles

Typhoon Nida's maximum sustained winds are near 115 mph, with tropical storm force winds extending 150 miles from the center. NASA's CloudSat satellite captured a side look across Nida on Nov. 28, showing clouds over 15 kilometers high and heavy rainfall areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Financial restructuring in fresh-start Chapter 11 reorganizations

A recent study published in Financial Management argues that Chapter 11 reorganizations fail to offer a clean slate for firms to establish new capital structures. Despite substantial reductions in debt burden, firms still end up with higher debt ratios than industry norms.

SourceWiley·JournalFinancial Management·DateNov 30, 2009

Mean old levee

The Portable Lightweight Ubiquitous Gasket (PLUG) system, developed by Wil Laska, passed its second test in November 2009, demonstrating the ability to fill with water, float on flood currents, and adhere to breach sites. Four technologies were tested, including a large balloon or tube that worked as hypothesized.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateNov 30, 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.

The therapeutic benefits of the human-animal bond

Research documents the value of the human-animal bond in improving child development, elderly care, and rehabilitation outcomes. A growing body of evidence highlights the healing power of companion animals in reducing stress, providing affection, and fostering a sense of security.

SourceWiley·JournalFamily Process·DateNov 30, 2009

Innovation puts next-generation solar cells on the horizon

Researchers at Monash University have developed a new way to increase the output of next-generation solar cells, achieving a three-fold increase in energy conversion efficiency. The breakthrough uses a new, more efficient type of dye that enables the operation of inverse dye-sensitised solar cells.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 30, 2009

Scientists gain new understanding of disease-causing bacteria

Researchers use cryo-electron tomography to elucidate molecular architecture of Treponema pallidum, shedding light on cellular structure and movement. The study provides new understanding of how the bacterium attaches to human cells and moves with its flagella.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateNov 30, 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.

Tuberculosis: On the path to prevention

Scientists at MUHC and international colleagues discovered a chromosomal site controlling natural resistance to TB infection, found in 20% of individuals from high-exposure areas. The findings hold promise for preventing TB infection in the general population by stimulating resistance mechanisms.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 30, 2009

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new self-assessment score has been developed to predict diabetes risk, showing promise as a simple and effective tool. Additionally, researchers are considering alternative bacteria, Fusobacterium necrophorum, for sore throat treatment due to its association with a rare but life-threatening complication, Lemierre syndrome. Furthermor...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 30, 2009

Now you see it, now you know you see it

Researchers found that the conscious mind kicks in about 300-400 milliseconds after exposure to a stimulus, with complexity affecting timing. The study aims to map unconscious perception and its role in understanding consciousness.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateNov 30, 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.

First Step To Success steps up in Albuquerque schools

The First Step To Success program has shown robust improvements among at-risk elementary students in the Albuquerque, N.M., school district. The four-year study found significant impact on behavioral symptoms and social functioning among participating students, with effect sizes ranging from .54 to .87.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders·DateNov 30, 2009

Elastography reduces unnecessary breast biopsies

Elastography improves ultrasound's specificity by measuring a lesion's compressibility and mechanical properties, accurately identifying cancerous lesions. The technique reduced unnecessary biopsies, correctly identifying 98% of malignant lesions and 82% of benign ones, according to the study.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2009

GOES-14 (O) moving into on-orbit storage around the Earth

The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite GOES-14 has completed its post-launch test phase and is now in on-orbit storage to await duty. The satellite will remain in this mode until needed to replace a failed spacecraft, reducing launch delay from one year to less than a week.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 2009

Directly observed antiretroviral therapy offers no benefit over self-administered treatment for HIV patients

A meta-analysis of 10 studies involving 1862 HIV patients found no statistically significant difference between directly observed and self-administered antiretroviral therapy in promoting virological suppression. This suggests that directly observed therapy may not be necessary to support adherence in the general patient population.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 30, 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.

Happy holidays from the groaning board; Western diets turn on fat genes

A new study suggests that highly palatable, energy-dense foods can lead to increased fat storage by activating genes. Researchers found that a diet high in fat and sugar stimulates the kappa opioid receptor, causing the body to hold onto more fat than usual.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 30, 2009

Brain scan study shows cocaine abusers can control cravings

A brain scan study found that active cocaine abusers can suppress activity in brain regions linked to drug craving when asked to inhibit their response. This suggests that clinical interventions designed to strengthen inhibitory responses could help prevent relapse and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNeuroImage·DateNov 30, 2009

Silver lining effect study, 'I have some good news and some bad news,' in INFORMS journal

A study published in Management Science found that presenting small gains alongside large losses can improve decision-making by reducing mental pain. The 'Silver Lining Effect' suggests that people prefer separating positive and negative information to mitigate the impact of loss, with more pronounced effects for larger losses.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateNov 30, 2009

Availability of vaccine no guarantee public will want it

A new study found that a moderate level of acceptability for an HIV vaccine exists, but high-risk communities may not automatically accept it. The key factors influencing acceptance are efficacy, side effects, and cost. Education is also crucial to ensure the public trusts the vaccine.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalHealth Services Research·DateNov 30, 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.

UNC program in translational medicine awarded $700,000 HHMI grant

The University of North Carolina's Graduate Training Program in Translational Medicine has received a $700,000 HHMI grant to integrate medical knowledge into its Ph.D. programs. This program aims to train researchers to translate basic science discoveries into improved treatments for patients.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateNov 30, 2009

Safe streets in Delhi key to preventing climate change say scientists

A new study suggests that safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure is key to preventing climate change in Indian cities. By prioritizing non-motorized transport, cities like Delhi can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save lives from road traffic injuries, and promote physical activity.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 30, 2009

A reductionist approach to HIV research

A team of researchers has created a mouse model with key features of HIV infection, shedding light on the disease's mechanisms. The mouse exhibits symptoms similar to those of immunodeficiency virus infection, but with notable differences that highlight its limitations as a model for human disease.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateNov 30, 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.

Beverage can stay-tabs pose swallowing risk

A recent study found that despite the switch from pull-tabs to stay-tabs 30 years ago, beverage can stay-tabs still pose a potential danger to children and adolescents. The study identified 19 cases of inadvertent stay-tab ingestion at a single hospital over 16 years.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2009

It takes 2 to infect

Structural biologists reveal how internalin B dimer activates human receptor Met, allowing Listeria to infect cells. The discovery may lead to therapeutics for improved wound healing and treatment of listeriosis.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateNov 30, 2009

First live targeting of tumors with RNA-based technology

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have devised a way to deliver the right therapy directly to tumors using special molecules called aptamers. A tumor-targeting RNA aptamer was found to specifically bind to RNA helicase p68 in colorectal tumors, offering a promising approach for cancer treatment and therapy delivery.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 30, 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.

Smart phones allow quick diagnosis of acute appendicitis

A study found that using smartphones with special software to view CT scans allowed radiologists to accurately diagnose acute appendicitis. The technique, which uses encrypted wireless networks and OsiriX Mobile software, showed promising results in a small sample of patients.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2009

Study shows antibiotic unsuccessful in preventing preterm labor

A recent study conducted in Southern Malawi found that azithromycin antibiotic had no significant impact on reducing the risk of preterm labour. The research suggests that infection may not be the primary cause of preterm birth and highlights the need for further investigation into other factors contributing to this issue.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 30, 2009

Stroke and heart disease trigger revealed in new research

Researchers at Imperial College London have identified TLR-2 as the trigger that leads to inflammation and damage in atherosclerosis, a condition causing heart attacks and strokes. Blocking this molecule could potentially treat atherosclerosis and reduce the risk of these diseases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalCirculation·DateNov 30, 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.

Sugary cola drinks linked for first time to higher risk of gestational diabetes

Research from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center found that drinking sugary cola drinks weekly before pregnancy significantly elevates the risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy. Consuming more than 5 servings per week was associated with a 22% greater risk of gestational diabetes mellitus.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateNov 30, 2009

First metallic nanoparticles resistant to extreme heat

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh developed metallic nanoparticles that can withstand temperatures of over 850 degrees Celsius. By sacrificing weaker components as temperatures rise, these particles maintain their structure and continue to catalyze reactions efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 30, 2009

Educational home visits can improve asthma in children, study suggests

A study published in Pediatrics found that educational home visits can significantly improve asthma control in children, leading to fewer hospitalizations and reduced symptoms. The research suggests that providing regular asthma education and support can go a long way in managing the condition.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 30, 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.

NRL's Ion Tiger sets 26-hour flight endurance record

The Naval Research Laboratory's Ion Tiger has achieved a 26-hour flight duration, exceeding its previous record of 23 hours and 17 minutes. The fuel cell system provides reliable, quiet operation and extremely high efficiency, paving the way for tactical flights and extended flight times.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateNov 30, 2009

New stem cell technology developed at Hebrew University

Researchers at Hebrew University have developed a novel stem cell technology, immuno-isolation, to treat complicated bone fractures. The technology has been successfully used to treat seven patients with a combination of their own MSCs and blood products, offering a promising alternative to standard treatment methods.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalStem Cells·DateNov 30, 2009

Research sheds new light on epilepsy

Scientists have recorded spontaneous epileptic activity in human brain tissue for the first time, revealing that electrical connections between nerve cells cause the disease. This discovery offers real hope for finding new treatments for epilepsy, which affects 45 million people worldwide.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2009

Too much physical activity may lead to arthritis

A study found that middle-aged men and women who engage in high levels of physical activity are at greater risk for developing knee abnormalities and osteoarthritis. High-impact activities like running and jumping carry a greater risk, while low-impact activities like swimming and cycling may protect against disease.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2009

Climate change in Kuwait Bay

Researchers found Kuwait Bay's sea surface temperature rose at an average rate of 0.62°C per decade, three times the global average. This increase is attributed to 50% due to local drivers such as wind and river flow, while 13% is caused by human activity.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalNatural Hazards·DateNov 30, 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.

Pancreatic tumors are marked for immunotherapy

A study at Washington University School of Medicine identified mesothelin as a marker for pancreatic tumors, suggesting its potential use in immune therapy against the disease. Mesothelin levels in the blood were found to be significantly higher in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma compared to healthy individuals.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 30, 2009

Scientists demonstrate multibeam, multi-functional lasers

Researchers from Harvard University and their international team have developed compact, multibeam lasers that can emit multiple wavelengths in the infrared spectrum. This adaptable technology has potential use in applications such as remote chemical sensing, optical wireless, and interferometry.

SourceHarvard University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 30, 2009

Chicken capsules good for aching joints

Researchers found that chicken type II collagen (CCII) capsules improved joint function in RA patients with fewer side effects compared to the established antirheumatic drug methotrexate. Oral tolerance induction via dietary exposure is believed to contribute to this finding.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateNov 30, 2009

Parent mentors can improve the asthmatic care of minority children, UT Southwestern researchers find

A new study by UT Southwestern researchers found that parent mentors can significantly reduce asthma-related complications in minority children. The intervention program, which provided specialized training to caregivers, resulted in fewer wheezing episodes, asthma attacks, and emergency room visits among participating families.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 30, 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.

Early intervention for toddlers with autism highly effective, study finds

A comprehensive new study has found that early intervention programs for very young children with autism are effective in improving IQ, language ability, and social interaction. The Early Start Denver Model, a novel approach combining ABA teaching methods with relationship-based approaches, was tested on 48 diverse toddlers with autism.

SourceAutism Speaks·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 30, 2009

Women researchers less likely to receive major career funding grants, U-M study shows

A University of Michigan study found that women researchers are less likely than men to secure major funding for their careers, with only 19% of women attaining an R01 grant within 10 years. The study suggests that family demands and pressures to contribute to clinical work may be hindering women's success in research careers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 30, 2009

UAB physician urges changes in diagnosis for sore throat in young adults

A UAB physician recommends re-thinking pharyngitis diagnoses in adolescents and young adults to consider Fusobacterium necrophorum, which may cause up to 10% of sore throats. The bacteria is associated with a rare but life-threatening complication called Lemierre syndrome, which can be fatal.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 30, 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.

Biology of emergent Salmonella exposed

Researchers have characterised a new multi-drug resistant strain of Salmonella Typhimurium causing life-threatening disease in Africa. The new strain, ST313, is resistant to several antibiotics and may spread from person to person, predominantly affecting individuals with weakened immune systems.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalGenome Research·DateNov 30, 2009

Seeing family for the holidays? Scientists discover how the stress might kill you

Researchers found that the nervous system controls regulatory T cells, which help end an immune response, and that breaking this link can lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases like lupus and arthritis. The study shows that stress from everyday events like seeing family around the holidays can negatively affect the immune system.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 30, 2009

Study: Believers' inferences about God's beliefs are uniquely egocentric

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that religious individuals tend to rely on their own beliefs when inferring what God might believe, but are less constrained when reasoning about others' beliefs. This suggests a unique egocentric bias in believers' thinking about God's views.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 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.