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Science News for October 19, 2009


Going out on a limb

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a biologically active scaffold made from soluble fibers that can help replace lost or missing bone. The technology, which has shown promise in animal models, could also be used to regenerate other types of human tissues, including muscle, arteries, and skin.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateOct 19, 2009

Diabetic episodes affect kids' memory

Children with a history of diabetic ketoacidosis may experience persistent memory issues, according to a new study from UC Davis. The research highlights the importance of maintaining glucose control and prompt diagnosis of new cases.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateOct 19, 2009

RIT scientists use supercomputers to 'see' black holes

Researchers at RIT are using supercomputers to study the massive dark objects, simulating what cannot be seen directly. The grants and allocations will enhance their access to sophisticated computer power, staying at the forefront of scientific computation.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateOct 19, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Is my robot happy to see me?

A study at Georgia Tech found that older adults have difficulty recognizing emotions on robots, particularly happiness and disgust. Despite this, they excel at reading sadness. The researchers suggest that the robot's facial features may not be exaggerated enough to overcome age-related recognition challenges.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateOct 19, 2009

Carbon-offsetting and conservation can both be winners in rainforest

Research at the University of Leeds found that logged rainforests can recover biodiversity to pre-logging levels within 15 years through managed restoration. This approach can also support carbon offsetting, providing a stronger incentive for protecting vulnerable forests.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalConservation Biology·DateOct 19, 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.

Non-nuclear families function, too

A new study by the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology found that adolescents' perception of family functioning is no longer decisive. Family structure is no longer a determining factor in an adolescent's perception of proper family function.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAtención Primaria·DateOct 19, 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.

Bedrock of a holy city: the historical importance of Jerusalem's geology

A new analysis of historical documents and geological maps reveals Jerusalem's karst geology played a pivotal role in the city's selection as David's capital, allowing it to successfully fend off Assyrian sieges. The discovery highlights the significance of water security in the region, with implications for modern-day life and politics.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 19, 2009

Detecting the undetectable in prostate cancer screening

Researchers have developed a highly sensitive PSA assay using nanotechnology, enabling early detection of prostate cancer recurrence and improving treatment outcomes. The new technology has the potential to redefine the PSA 'zero' level, allowing for earlier diagnosis and targeted therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2009

Are humans still evolving? Absolutely, says a new analysis of a long-term survey of human health

A new analysis of a long-term survey of human health shows that humans are still evolving due to natural selection. The study found that the descendants of over 2000 women in the Framingham Heart Study will be slightly shorter and heavier, have lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and reach menopause later in life.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2009

Killer algae a key player in mass extinctions

A new theory proposes that toxic algae may have caused the world's great species annihilations during five of Earth's largest mass extinctions. Algae blooms can kill thousands of fish and poison shellfish, with some plants on land also picking up toxins through their roots.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 19, 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.

Power at work has payoffs, but not for health

People with job authority report higher levels of interpersonal conflict and stressors spilling over into non-work domains. Despite benefits like greater pay and problem-solving tasks, the health costs negate the advantages of having power at work.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateOct 19, 2009

APIC announces winner of first Healthcare Administrator Award

Deborah Friberg, COO and Executive Vice President at WakeMed Health and Hospitals, has been recognized by APIC with the first annual Healthcare Administrator Award. She supports infection prevention and control through various initiatives, including MRSA reduction and hand hygiene compliance.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·DateOct 19, 2009

The book of life can now literally be written on paper

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a method to grow cells in three dimensions using paper stacks, mimicking real tissues. This technique allows for uniform oxygen and nutrient delivery, making it easier to study cancer and other diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

International glass institute receives second 5-year grant from NSF

The International Materials Institute for New Functionalities in Glass at Lehigh University has received a second five-year contract from the National Science Foundation. The institute aims to increase the visibility of glass globally while encouraging more students to pursue careers in this historically low-number field. Glass plays a...

SourceLehigh University·DateOct 19, 2009

A master mechanism for regeneration?

Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that genes involved in fin regeneration and heart repair are also required for rebuilding damaged light receptors in the eye. The study suggests that a common molecular mechanism guides the process, no matter what body part is damaged.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2009

Study examines treatment for olfactory loss after viral infection

A study published in Archives of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found that glucocorticoid medication and Ginkgo biloba significantly improved the sense of smell in individuals with previous olfactory loss due to upper respiratory infections. The treatment was effective regardless of whether it was used alone or in combination.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateOct 19, 2009

Thyroid surgery safe for older patients, study finds

A multi-year study of 428 thyroidectomy patients found only slight differences in rates of complications and hospital readmissions between older and younger patients. Elderly patients had a slightly higher hospital readmission rate due to transient calcium levels issues, not age-related complications.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateOct 19, 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.

JCI table of contents: Oct. 19, 2009

Researchers found that administration of APC protein slowed disease progression and extended survival in mice with inherited ALS. The study suggests activating APC might benefit patients with inherited and possibly sporadic ALS, but warns of potential risks.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 19, 2009

Yale's scan of Turkish infant's genome yields a surprise diagnosis

A Yale team used whole exome sequencing to identify a mutation in a Turkish baby's genome, leading to a surprise diagnosis and treatment of congenital chloride diarrhea. The approach has potential for dramatic insights into human diseases and could become commonly used in clinical settings.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2009

Study: Added oxygen during stroke reduces brain tissue damage

Researchers at Ohio State University have found that giving supplemental oxygen to animals during a stroke can reduce damage to brain tissue surrounding the clot. The timing of delivery is critical to achieving this benefit, and using pure oxygen delivered by mask was also effective.

SourceOhio State University·DateOct 19, 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.

Popping the cork on biofuel agriculture

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory identified an enzyme responsible for suberin production, which can help control water and nutrient transportation in plants. This discovery may lead to easier agricultural production of crops used for biofuels, enabling them to thrive in specific or harsh environments.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2009

Global warming may spur increased growth in Pacific Northwest forests

A new study suggests that global warming may lead to increased productivity in high-elevation forests of the Pacific Northwest, with potential increases of up to 500% in Washington. However, lower-elevation forests are expected to decline in growth due to drought stress and limited moisture.

SourceOregon State University·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateOct 19, 2009

Researchers reveal mechanism for neuron self-preservation

A study published in the Journal of Cell Biology reveals that PIKfyve, a lipid kinase, protects neurons from calcium overload by degrading voltage-gated calcium channels. This mechanism may provide new insights into neurodegenerative disorders such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateOct 19, 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.

'Superobesity,' chronic disease burden associated with risk of death following bariatric surgery

A recent study found that bariatric surgery is associated with a higher risk of death in superobese patients. The research, published in Archives of Surgery, analyzed data from 856 veterans who underwent bariatric surgery between 2000 and 2006. Patients classified as superobese had a significantly increased risk of dying within one yea...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateOct 19, 2009

West Antarctic ice sheet may not be losing ice as fast as once thought

Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin and other institutions have made new ground measurements that suggest the West Antarctic ice sheet is losing ice slightly more slowly than estimated. The findings could improve estimates of ice mass loss and provide a clearer picture of Antarctica's contribution to rising sea levels.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateOct 19, 2009

MIT neuroscientists find neural stopwatch in the brain

Researchers identified populations of neurons coding time with extreme precision in the primate brain's prefrontal cortex and striatum. This fine-scale coverage enables precise timing of actions, such as speaking or driving a car.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Researcher honored for experimental work in nanotechnology

Dr. Óscar Custance has been awarded the 2009 Feynman Prize for Experimental Work in Nanotechnology for his pioneering research in atomic-scale precision. His work could lead to more effective catalysts for hydrogen fuel production. The prize recognizes advancements toward molecular manufacturing.

SourceAir Force Office of Scientific Research·DateOct 19, 2009

Compound shows potential for slowing progression of ALS

Scientists have discovered a compound that dramatically slows the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in mice by extending their lifespan by 25 percent and reducing muscle wasting. The enzyme APC has been shown to protect neurons from cell death caused by SOD1 mutations, which are linked to most sporadic cases of ALS.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 19, 2009

Children's blood lead levels linked to lower test scores

Researchers at Duke University found a clear dose-response pattern between lead exposure and test performance, with the effects becoming more pronounced as lead levels increase. Early childhood exposure to lead accounts for 7-16% of decline in test scores, while family poverty status accounts for 25-28%, and parental education for 58-65%.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuroToxicology·DateOct 19, 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.

Understanding the brain's natural foil for over-excited neurons

High concentrations of glutamate activate the metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGlu1 receptors), which become protective against toxic effects. This finding may lead to rational drug design for therapeutic approaches to protect against excitotoxic brain damage following injury and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateOct 19, 2009

Researchers optimizing progesterone for brain injury treatment

Researchers are optimizing progesterone for treating traumatic brain injuries by combining it with vitamin D and developing more water-soluble analogues. These compounds showed equivalent ability to reduce brain swelling in animal models, suggesting potential for improved treatment outcomes.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateOct 19, 2009

Research with wood ducks earns graduate student 2 national awards

Sarah DuRant, a Virginia Tech doctoral student, has received two national awards for her research with wood ducks. Her work explores the effects of slight changes in incubation temperature on early growth and stress endocrinology in wood ducklings. This novel approach reveals profound impacts on the health of baby birds after hatching.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateOct 19, 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 protein APC slows Lou Gehrig's disease in mice

Researchers found that administering APC and its analogs slowed disease progression and extended survival in mutant SOD1-expressing mice. These compounds worked by decreasing SOD1 expression in brain cells, indicating a potential neuroprotective effect of APC in mouse models of inherited ALS.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 19, 2009

3-day course of antibiotics may be sufficient following tonsillectomy

A new study suggests that a shorter course of antibiotics following tonsillectomy may be just as effective in reducing pain and promoting recovery. The research found no significant differences between children who received a 3-day versus 7-day course of postoperative antibiotics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateOct 19, 2009

Clemson researchers say algae key to mass extinctionss

Researchers at Clemson University found evidence that toxin-producing algae played a deadly role in mass extinctions. The scientists analyzed ancient algal deposits and found that these algae were present in sufficient quantities to kill off plants and animals.

SourceClemson University·DateOct 19, 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.

Latest diabetes figures paint grim global picture

The International Diabetes Federation reports a staggering 285 million people worldwide have diabetes, with the disease disproportionately affecting low and middle-income countries. The number is expected to reach 435 million by 2030, posing a significant threat to global health and economies.

SourceInternational Diabetes Federation·DateOct 19, 2009

Super typhoon Lupit heading west in the Philippine Sea

Super Typhoon Lupit is currently packing maximum sustained winds near 132 mph and moving westward toward northern Luzon. The storm has joined the ranks of super typhoons in the Western Pacific Ocean, with forecasters expecting a landfall in the region during the afternoon hours on October 22.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 19, 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.

Study finds mercury levels in children with autism and those developing typically are the same

Researchers at UC Davis MIND Institute report that after adjusting for factors, typically developing children and those with autism have similar blood-mercury levels. The study, conducted as part of the CHARGE Study, looked at various sources of mercury in participants' environments, including fish consumption and vaccinations.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 19, 2009

New technique paves way for medical discoveries

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a new technique that allows for precise analysis of protein sugar structures. This breakthrough may lead to a better understanding of disease mechanisms and potential new treatments, particularly for conditions such as Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 19, 2009

Teach your physicians well

A new Brandeis study found that faculty values at US academic medical centers align well with institutional missions, but in some cases, institutions fall short of practicing what they preach. Faculty prioritize caring for the underserved, teaching, intellectual rigor, and freedom of discovery.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 19, 2009

Clots traveling from lower veins may not be the cause of pulmonary embolism in trauma patients

A Massachusetts General Hospital study found no evidence of deep venous thrombosis in most trauma patients with pulmonary embolism, questioning the current understanding of the condition's origin. The researchers suggest that clots may form independently in the lungs, potentially revolutionizing the way PE is prevented and treated.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateOct 19, 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.

How Chinese firms benefit from the diversity of foreign direct investment

A new study by Rice University's Jones Graduate School of Business found that Chinese firms benefiting from the diversity of foreign direct investment (FDI) productivity and competitiveness. The more diverse the national origins of foreign investors in an industry, the higher the productivity of Chinese firms.

SourceRice University·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateOct 19, 2009

Ancient bison genetic treasure trove for farmers

Researchers analyzed ancient bison genetic mutations to identify important variations in domestic animals, potentially improving agricultural breeding programs and disease resistance. The study also revealed the evolutionary history of the ruminant family tree and provided insights into climate change adaptations.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2009

Intelligent system to help autistic children recognize emotions

A new facial expression recognition system is being developed to help autistic children recognize emotions of surrounding people. The portable device uses boosting classifier and derivative-based filtering to locate the face region and classify emotional expressions.

SourceIOS Press·JournalIntelligent Decision Technologies·DateOct 19, 2009

Protein may predict heart attack and early death, not stroke

A study of 2,240 people found that high CRP levels were associated with an increased risk of heart attack and death, while lower levels were linked to reduced risk. The protein was not linked to an increased risk of stroke in the study, suggesting it may be more useful for predicting heart health.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 19, 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.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued clinical practice guidelines for treating erectile dysfunction (ED), recommending the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors and individualizing decisions on hormonal tests. For patients with stable ischemic heart disease, adding ACE inhibitors to standard care improves ou...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 19, 2009

Caltech scientists create robot surrogate for blind persons in testing visual prostheses

Researchers at Caltech have developed a robot called CYCLOPS that simulates the visual experience of blind individuals with implanted visual prostheses, refining design and enhancing its effectiveness. The robot's camera system processes images, allowing scientists to test various enhancements without relying on actual blind users.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalComputer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine·DateOct 19, 2009

Mangosteen juice could protect health in the obese

A randomized, double-blind trial found that mangosteen juice lowered C-reactive protein levels by 1.33mg/L in obese participants. The natural treatment was safe at all dosages tested and showed promise as a potential therapeutic option for reducing inflammation and cardiovascular risk.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition Journal·DateOct 19, 2009

EPA fellow studies effect of mercury in toads

Christine Bergeron, a Virginia Tech doctoral student, receives an EPA fellowship to study the impact of mercury on American toads' reproductive success. The research reveals that female toads transfer mercury to their eggs, affecting offspring viability and potentially long-term population health.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateOct 19, 2009

MU research team establishes family tree for cattle, other ruminants

Researchers developed a genetic family tree for cows and ruminants, spanning 29 million years, using a new technique that also applies to humans. The study provides insights into cattle domestication, breed formation, and evolutionary connections to humans.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Herbal tonic for radiotherapy

A study published in International Journal of Low Radiation found that extracts of Ginkgo biloba leaves can protect human white blood cells from gamma radiation-induced apoptosis. The results suggest that the antioxidant compounds in Ginkgo biloba extract can neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Low Radiation·DateOct 19, 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.

Resident physicians seldom trained in skin cancer examination

A survey of resident physicians found that many are not trained in skin cancer examinations, with only a small percentage reporting skill levels in performing the procedure. The study highlights the need for comprehensive training programs to teach this essential skill.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateOct 19, 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.