Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 5, 2009


Newly revised guidelines for managing thyroid cancer published in Thyroid journal

The American Thyroid Association has released new guidelines for managing thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer, focusing on clinical evaluation, fine-needle biopsy, and surgical management. The revised guidelines aim to provide a framework for the care of patients with nodular thyroid disease and thyroid cancer.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThyroid·DateNov 5, 2009

Are the Alps growing or shrinking?

The Alps are constantly rising in height, despite being eroded at the same rate, due to climate-driven uplift. Researchers used rare isotopes to prove this phenomenon, showing that mountains erode concurrently with their growth.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalTectonophysics·DateNov 5, 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.

Parents just don't understand

A study by Eva Pomerantz and Qian Wang found that parental control in Western countries can have negative effects on children's psychological development, while in East Asia, it may be more accepted due to cultural differences. The researchers recommend limiting parents' intrusiveness in their children's lives for both regions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateNov 5, 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 suggests dentists can identify patients at risk for fatal cardiovascular event

A new study found that dentists using the computerized system HeartScore can identify patients at risk of fatal cardiovascular events and refer them to physicians. The study followed 200 patients in Sweden and found that dentists were able to accurately assess their risk for serious complications.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateNov 5, 2009

Genome sequence for the domestic horse to be unveiled

The domestic horse genome sequence has been completed, providing access to specific gene sequences for identifying traits. The findings have significant implications for improved breeding practices and studying human health, particularly in relation to shared genetic conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

Early scents really do get 'etched' in the brain

A brain imaging study found that first scents have a unique signature in the brain, regardless of whether they're pleasant or unpleasant. Early odor memories are more easily recalled, especially for bad smells, and can be predicted by brain activity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 5, 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.

Federal stimulus funds support studies geared to improving HIV care and prevention

Researchers will use web-based, patient-controlled personal health records to improve health and HIV prevention outcomes for HIV positive patients. The studies aim to assess the effectiveness of mobile phone text messages and a strategy called SBIRT in reducing drug and alcohol use and improving antiretroviral medication adherence.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateNov 5, 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.

Mom was right: Nice guys don't always finish last

Researchers at Binghamton University found that when water striders have the freedom to move between groups, females prefer to cluster around non-aggressive males. This suggests that a 'gentleman' approach to mating is beneficial for group productivity. In contrast, male psychopaths disrupt the group's dynamics and reduce fertility.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

All dressed-up and nowhere to go

A new study found that inadequate clothing can restrict children's outdoor physical activity, with three-quarters of children aged 3-6 years old spending time in childcare settings. The study suggests that parents may need education on the importance of active play for children's development.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateNov 5, 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.

Deciphering the regulatory code

Researchers at EMBL developed an integrated approach to forecast CRM activity, predicting gene expression patterns in fruit fly development. The study identifies flexibility in genetic regulation, enabling organism development without essential transcription factors.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateNov 5, 2009

Male sabertoothed cats were pussycats compared to macho lions

Researchers found that male sabertoothed cats were indistinguishable in size from females, suggesting a possible lack of aggression. This contrasts with the American lion, where males are significantly larger and more aggressive than females.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateNov 5, 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.

Crossing the line: how aggressive cells invade the brain

Scientists observe aggressive T-cells breaching blood-brain barrier, crawling along vascular walls and forming connections with phagocytes. This breakthrough understanding may aid in developing new treatments for multiple sclerosis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateNov 5, 2009

Why nice guys usually get the girls

A recent study found that female water striders prefer non-aggressive males over highly sexually aggressive ones when it comes to mating. In contrast, groups of low-key male water striders mated with more females than did groups of highly aggressive males.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

1930s drug slows tumor growth

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered a 1930s gonorrhea medication, acriflavine, that can halt the growth of new blood vessels in cancer cells. By inhibiting HIF-1, a protein essential for tumor growth, acriflavine may one day be incorporated into chemotherapy cocktails to fight cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 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.

Babies' language learning starts from the womb

A new study found that infants as young as three to five days old produce cry melodies consistent with their native language. Researchers analyzed the cries of 60 newborns and discovered differences in melody contour based on mother tongue, suggesting an early impact of native language on sound production.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 5, 2009

Approved lymphoma drug shows promise in early tests against bone cancer

Researchers found that Bortezomib shuts down cellular machines that destroy Runx2, a protein complex that blocks the growth of bone cancer cells. The study suggests that Bortezomib may represent a new treatment option for osteosarcoma, a devastating disease that responds poorly to current chemotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateNov 5, 2009

AGU journal highlights -- Nov. 5, 2009

Research papers published in Geophysical Research Letters highlight regional warming trends in Antarctica, improved models for shoreline loss, and the contribution of reservoirs to triggering devastating earthquakes. Scientists have developed new methods to analyze climate data, storm impacts on shorelines, and natural hazards.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 5, 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.

Does green tea prevent cancer? Evidence continues to brew, but questions remain

A new study suggests that green tea extract can reduce the risk of oral cancer, with patients who presented with mild to moderate dysplasia having a longer time to develop oral cancer if they took green tea extract. However, more research is needed to confirm its long-term prevention effects.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateNov 5, 2009

Perceived parent-pressure causes excessive antibiotic prescription

A study in Italy found that pediatricians over-prescribe antibiotics due to perceived parental expectations, particularly if parents expect a prescription for respiratory tract infections. The main factors associated with actual practices were discharge from the child's ear and parental expectation of a prescription.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Pediatrics·DateNov 5, 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.

How size matters for catalysts

Scientists at the University of Utah demonstrated a conclusive link between the size of catalyst particles on a solid surface and their ability to speed chemical reactions. The study focused on metal nanoparticles, finding that smaller sizes lead to increased electronic properties and catalytic activity.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

Does prostate-specific antigen velocity help in early detection prostate cancer?

A large study found that PSA velocity has little predictive value for determining the outcome of a first prostate biopsy. However, a rapid rise in PSA levels may still suggest prostatitis or prostate cancer, warranting further evaluation. The findings suggest that clinical judgment should be used to guide biopsy decisions.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·JournalEuropean Urology·DateNov 5, 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.

Coral reefs inspire rare consensus -- just save them

A recent study in Hawaii found that tourists and recreation enthusiasts strongly support protecting coral reef ecosystems due to their exceptional beauty. The research suggests that public attitudes toward management are largely driven by the perceived health of coral reefs, with environmental conditions being more important than human...

SourceOregon State University·DateNov 5, 2009

Near vision research study

A research study is being conducted to assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational corneal inlay in reducing the need for reading glasses. The inlay, called AcuFocus Corneal Inlay (ACI), is intended to improve near vision in patients with presbyopia, a natural loss of near vision that occurs after age 45.

SourceThe Cornea and Laser Eye Institute, P.A.·DateNov 5, 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.

Small increases in phosphorus mean higher risk of heart disease

A study found that small increases in phosphorus are associated with higher coronary artery calcification and an increased risk of heart disease. Participants with lower kidney function were also more likely to have progressive CAC.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 5, 2009

Atlanta's Fernbank Museum tracks infamous conquistador through Southeast

Archaeologists at Fernbank Museum of Natural History have discovered unprecedented evidence of De Soto's path in Georgia, including rare glass beads and metal artifacts. The findings suggest a probable stop near McRae, Ga., and provide a significant link to the infamous conquistador's journey through Native communities.

SourceFernbank Museum of Natural History·DateNov 5, 2009

Higher incidence of thyroid cancer in volcanic area of Sicily

Residents of the volcanic area of Mt. Etna in Catania had a more than two times higher incidence of papillary thyroid cancer compared to those elsewhere on the island. The tumors from patients in this region frequently carried the BRAF V600E gene mutation, associated with aggressive thyroid cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 5, 2009

Caught in the act: Butterfly mate preference shows how 1 species can become 2

Researchers found a population of tropical butterflies exhibiting diverging color patterns and reproductive preferences, suggesting the potential emergence of two distinct species. The study provides insights into the earliest stage of ecological speciation, where natural selection drives the divergence of populations into new species.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 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.

Study reveals how plants and bacteria 'talk' to thwart disease

Researchers at UC Davis identified a bacterial signaling molecule that matches up with a specific receptor in rice plants to ward off bacterial blight disease. The study's findings have implications for controlling diseases in plants and people, potentially leading to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

Rapid supernova could be new class of exploding star

Astronomers have discovered a possible new type of supernova that occurs when helium flows onto a white dwarf, causing a thermonuclear explosion. The object, dubbed SN 2002bj, is characterized by its rapid rise and fall and strong helium signature.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateNov 5, 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.

Physical education key to improving health in low-income adolescents

A study led by researchers at UCSF and UC Berkeley found that regular PE class participation is significantly associated with greater cardiovascular fitness and lower body mass index. Engagement in at least 20 minutes of exercise during PE class also improved weight status and decreased mile times.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateNov 5, 2009

A new system preserves the right to privacy in Internet searches

Researchers developed a protocol to distort internet search engine user profiles, preserving privacy from profiling and data exploitation. The new system offers an improvement in response time while delaying searches slightly.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalComputer Communications·DateNov 5, 2009

Carnegie Mellon researchers receive grant

Researchers aim to develop low-cost devices that can monitor building energy consumption and provide suggestions for optimization. The project will use data from various residential buildings, including those operated by non-profits, to inform energy-saving decisions.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateNov 5, 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.

Gene therapy technique slows brain disease

Researchers have successfully used a gene therapy technique to slow the onset of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, a severe brain disease, in two patients. The treatment involved introducing a therapeutic gene into blood cells using a lentiviral vector, which showed promise in slowing disease progression and improving neurological function.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

Horse genome sequence and analysis published in Science

The study of the domestic horse's genome reveals remarkable similarities to humans, shedding light on key aspects of mammalian evolution. The analysis also provides a starting point for mapping disease genes in horses, potentially deepening knowledge of diseases in both species.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

The first casualty of war

A study published in BioMed Central's Conflict and Health journal found that news reports on the Iraq conflict grossly underestimated civilian casualties. The researchers analyzed media coverage and found that US newspapers reported more Coalition fatalities than Iraqi civilians, while non-US newspapers showed a reversed pattern.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalConflict and Health·DateNov 5, 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.

The last European hadrosaurs lived in the Iberian Peninsula

Spanish researchers found the last European hadrosaurs in the Iberian Peninsula, coexisting with evolved species and primitive members. The fossils, including a newly discovered lambeosaurine, suggest a connection between Asia and Europe during the Late Cretaceous period.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateNov 5, 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.

Tackling new Arctic challenges from space

The ESA workshop explored the potential of space-based services to address Arctic challenges such as climate change, ocean traffic management, and environmental protection. Space assets can improve search and rescue operations, monitor sea ice and ocean changes, and facilitate sustainable development in the region.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·DateNov 5, 2009

Rice wins NIH funding for oral-cancer test

Researchers at Rice University are developing a rapid saliva test for oral cancer that can be performed by a dentist in under 30 minutes. The test uses a novel microchip, known as a lab-on-a-chip, to detect specific biomarkers in cells, allowing for early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.

SourceRice University·DateNov 5, 2009