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Science News Archive November 2009 - Page 3


Page 3 of 24

'Safety valve' protects photosynthesis from too much light

Researchers have discovered a specific protein in algae that acts as a safety valve to dissipate excess absorbed light energy. This finding could lead to the development of more robust, commercially viable strains for biofuel production and help plants survive extreme environmental conditions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateNov 25, 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.

Oceanic crust formation is dynamic after all

Researchers have observed dynamic upwelling in the underlying mantle beneath a spreading center, leading to new crust formation. This finding resolves a long-standing debate regarding the relative importance of passive and dynamic upwelling in oceanic crust creation.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature·DateNov 25, 2009

Improving household energy efficiency would reduce emissions and improve public health in both richer and poorer nations

In low-income settings, household energy interventions have greater potential to improve public health than those in high-income countries. In the UK, combined insulation and behavioral changes can avert 5,500 premature deaths and save 41 megatonnes of CO2. In India, introducing efficient cooking stoves can benefit up to 87% of househo...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 25, 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.

Implant-based cancer vaccine is first to eliminate tumors in mice

A new cancer vaccine has successfully eliminated tumors in mice by reprogramming the mammalian immune system. The implant-based vaccine targets tumor-specific antigens and directs T cells to hunt down and kill cancerous cells, providing durable protection against relapse.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 25, 2009

1 of LA BioMed's founders to be honored

The American College of Physicians has awarded the Ralph O. Claypoole Sr. Memorial Award to Dr. Melvin R. Kaplan, one of LA BioMed's founders and a renowned internist. Dr. Kaplan has dedicated his career to patient care for over 60 years.

SourceLA BioMed·DateNov 25, 2009

Cosmic 'dig' reveals vestiges of the Milky Way's building blocks

Astronomers have unveiled an extraordinary cosmic relic, Terzan 5, which formed in at least two different epochs, providing insights into the origin of the galactic bulge. The discovery suggests that Terzan 5 might be the surviving remnant of a disrupted dwarf galaxy contributing to the Milky Way's formation.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateNov 25, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

On-call radiology residents accurately interpret off-hours neuro CT exams

A study published in JACR found that on-call radiology residents can accurately interpret emergency neuroradiology CT scans after hours. The accuracy of image interpretation is crucial for diagnostic radiology, with clinicians relying solely on preliminary interpretations to make treatment decisions.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateNov 25, 2009

Free e-samples of prescription drugs: At what cost?

Researchers analyzed internet offers for free or discounted prescription medications and found that their value is low compared to retail costs. The studies also revealed that efficacy and safety information were often de-emphasized in favor of promotional messaging.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 25, 2009

Other short-lived greenhouse pollutants need to be controlled too

New research highlights the importance of controlling short-lived greenhouse pollutants like sulphates, methane, and black carbon to reduce global warming and improve health. The study finds that sulphates can have negative health effects while ozone pollution has a significant impact on cardiovascular mortality.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 25, 2009

Houses of the rising sun

Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified over 90% of Sicilian temples facing east, sparking new insights into Ancient Greek practices. The study suggests an 'astronomical fingerprint' may distinguish between Greek and native settlements.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 25, 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.

Startled flies may provide insight into ADHD

Researchers discovered two independent forms of arousal in fruit flies, with one mutation linked to increased startle response and decreased endogenous arousal. The findings suggest that environmentally stimulated arousal and sleep-wake transitions reflect distinct neural circuits, potentially shedding light on the neurobiology of ADHD.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateNov 25, 2009

It's not just dirt!

Interactive e-lessons developed by soil science educators engage learners with active learning strategies, interactive Flash animations, and experiential activities. These lessons aim to help students and the public recognize the critical importance of soil in addressing various issues.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education·DateNov 25, 2009

Tips from the American Journal of Pathology

Researchers discovered a link between Wnt signaling pathway activation and diabetic retinopathy. Pro-NGF may play a pathogenic role in Alzheimer disease through oxidative stress-induced modifications. Abnormal endothelial cells contribute to tumor progression and metastasis in cancer.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateNov 25, 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.

Computerized order entry/decision support systems: Effective solution to managing imaging utilization

Computerized provider order entry/decision support systems offer an education-focused method of utilization management, tracking physician performance and comparing scores to peers. This approach has been shown to reduce imaging utilization by 2.75%, 1.2%, and 1.3% for CT, MRI, and ultrasound respectively.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateNov 25, 2009

Early relationships influence teen pain and depression

Insecure adolescents experience more intense pain in forms like headaches, abdominal pain, and joint pain. They are also more likely to be depressed compared to peers with secure attachments. The study highlights the importance of considering interpersonal factors in treating adolescent pain and depression.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Pain·DateNov 25, 2009

Workplace literacy schemes are too short to improve skills

A study by King's College London found that workplace basic skills courses had little impact on productivity and employability. Short course durations were identified as a major reason for the failure of the initiative. Conversely, participants reported increased confidence and a greater interest in education.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateNov 25, 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.

The contagion of our mistakes shows no mercy

Climate change poses a fundamental threat to global health, particularly for vulnerable populations. Strengthening health systems and investing in cheap and proven public health interventions can accelerate progress towards the MDGs and help mitigate climate change.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 25, 2009

Tailor-made HIV/AIDS treatment closer to reality

McGill University Health Centre researchers have developed an innovative immunotherapy customized for each patient, showing immense promise in combating HIV/AIDS. The therapy uses dendritic cells to target specific viral strains, resulting in increased levels of CD8-lymphocytes and few reported side effects.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalClinical Immunology·DateNov 25, 2009

Study sheds light on brain's fear processing center

A new study by University of Iowa researchers shows that breathing carbon dioxide can trigger panic attacks by increasing brain acidity, which activates a brain protein involved in fear and anxiety behavior. The study suggests new approaches for treating panic and anxiety disorders by targeting the brain protein ASIC1a.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalCell·DateNov 25, 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.

ASH announces 2009 Merit Award winners

The American Society of Hematology recognizes outstanding abstract presenters with the 2009 Merit Award, offering $500 honorariums to the best trainees in hemostasis and thrombosis. The winners include Kimberly Fan, Kyle Eash, Hélène Moniz, An De Weer, Suparna Nanua, MD, PhD, Jian Xu, PhD, and Rudy Fuentes.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·DateNov 25, 2009

Small faults in southeast Spain reduce earthquake risk of larger ones

Scientists discover that smaller tectonic structures near larger faults in southeast Spain partially offset the risk of earthquakes, reducing seismic activity. By studying fossils and geological data, researchers found that these small faults help relax energy associated with plate convergence.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Quaternary Science·DateNov 25, 2009

New data emerges on liver transplant survival rates

Researchers found no statistically significant differences in post-transplant survival rates between cirrhotic patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and alcoholic liver disease. However, NASH patients were at increased risk for metabolic syndrome complications, including cardiovascular mortality.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateNov 25, 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.

Cutting greenhouse pollutants could directly save millions of lives worldwide

A series of studies published in The Lancet show that cutting greenhouse gases can directly reduce premature deaths and improve global health, particularly in low-income countries. The research highlights the co-benefits of tackling climate change by reducing air pollution and improving public health.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 25, 2009

Dentists can help to identify patients at risk of a heart attack

A new study reveals that dentists can identify patients at risk of a fatal cardiovascular disease using software called HeartScore. Six men who thought they were healthy received preventive treatment in time thanks to the dental care team's efforts.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateNov 25, 2009

New stress-related gene modulates high blood pressure in mice and men

Researchers have identified a novel gene, phosducin, that modulates high blood pressure in response to stress. The studies found that mice lacking the gene developed high blood pressure under stress, while certain DNA variants serve as markers for increased blood pressure risk in humans.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 25, 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.

When camouflage is a plant's best protection

A rare woodland plant, Monotropsis odorata, has evolved 'cryptic coloration' as a defense mechanism to avoid herbivores. The plant's bracts function as camouflage, making it blend in with its surroundings, which increases its fitness and survival rate.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateNov 25, 2009

A RANK insider resolving the enigma of the fever chart

Researchers find that the RANK protein and its ligand regulate the body's fever response, helping to fight infection. Female mice lacking RANK in the brain have increased body temperatures compared to males, with a link to sex hormones and reproductive biology.

SourceResearch Institute of Molecular Pathology·JournalNature·DateNov 25, 2009

Doctors must discuss climate change and health with patients

The medical profession is urged to accelerate its role in the climate change debate. A low carbon development fund of at least $150 billion is proposed to support global health. The authors emphasize the need for clear communication with patients, politicians, and the public about the risks of inaction.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 25, 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.

New genetic cause of cardiac failure discovered

Researchers have identified a new genetic cause of cardiac failure, specifically mutations in the nexilin protein that destabilize the Z-disk. This discovery has significant implications for clinical therapy, suggesting that early treatment with stress-reducing medications may prevent progressive damage to the heart.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 25, 2009

Involving family in medical rounds benefits both family and medical team

A new Indiana University School of Medicine study found that involving family members in medical rounds improves care and communication. Families reported increased feelings of inclusion, respect, and a better understanding of their child's care. Participation is voluntary, and family members can ask questions and offer input.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateNov 24, 2009

Opposites attract: Monkeys choose mating partners with different genes

A new study found that female mandrills reproduce with males whose genes complement theirs, increasing the chances of their offspring resisting disease. The researchers believe this may be due to smell or selective fertilization, and the discovery supports the idea humans may also choose genetically compatible mates.

SourceDurham University·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateNov 24, 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.

Atomic-level snapshot catches protein motor in action

Researchers have uncovered the critical action shapshot of an enzyme known as the Rho transcription termination factor, a remarkable class of ring-shaped protein motors. The study reveals a rotary engine-like mechanism that enables the motor to selectively terminate transcription at discrete points along the genome.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalCell·DateNov 24, 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.

Strategic management theory offers fresh take on the economic crisis

Research published in Strategic Organization highlights micro-level underpinnings of macroeconomic events, arguing that traditional theories are inadequate. The authors propose a new approach based on heterogeneous resources and capabilities, which can help resolve the current crisis.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalStrategic Organization·DateNov 24, 2009

Chronic pain found to increase risk of falls in older adults

A new study reveals that chronic musculoskeletal pain in older adults significantly increases their risk of falls. The research found that participants with chronic pain in two or more joints had a 50% greater risk of falling compared to those with no pain.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateNov 24, 2009

Unacculturated Hispanics in US at higher risk for HIV

Researchers found that unacculturated Hispanics had fewer HIV tests and were more likely to test positive. Interventions must address cultural differences to reduce the growing rate of HIV/AIDS among Hispanics.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateNov 24, 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.

New study finds MRSA on the rise in hospital outpatients

A new study reveals a seven-fold increase in community-associated MRSA strains in hospital outpatients between 1999 and 2006. This poses a significant threat to patient safety as these strains can spread rapidly into hospitals.

SourceBurness·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateNov 24, 2009

Reduced skin infections in Northern Australian Aboriginal children

A three-year study in remote communities found a significant reduction in skin sores among Aboriginal children, with over 6000 assessments conducted on nearly 2500 children. The program's success highlights the importance of local education and treatment, but ongoing efforts are needed to address underlying causes such as poor housing ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 24, 2009

Rocket science leads to new whale discovery

Researchers use X-ray scanners and advanced computing to create detailed replicas of a whale's hearing anatomy. The study suggests mid-frequency sonar sounds are largely filtered, while higher frequencies used by whales for hunting are amplified.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateNov 24, 2009

Carnegie Mellon's Jay Whitacre receives funding from energy department

Carnegie Mellon University's Jay Whitacre has received a $5 million award from the US Department of Energy to develop a new room-temperature sodium-ion battery technology. The goal is to improve grid reliability and efficiency, enabling the expansion of renewable energy sources. This project aims to reduce electricity use by 4% in 2030...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateNov 24, 2009

New tool for helping pediatric heart surgery

Researchers at UCSD and Stanford University developed a computational tool to simulate blood flow on computers, optimizing surgical designs for the Fontan surgery. This tool allows doctors to test plans and evaluate blood flow patterns before operating, potentially reducing risks associated with the procedure.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 24, 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.