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Science News for October 20, 2009


Cancer survivors may not be getting the help they need to stop smoking

A recent study published by Fox Chase Cancer Center researchers reveals that nearly a quarter of cancer survivors who still smoke have not been advised to quit by their health care providers in the last year. Health care providers are missing an opportunity to make a significant difference in the quality of life of their patients by no...

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 20, 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.

Melanoma treatment options 1 step closer

A team of University of Alberta researchers successfully synthesized a natural substance called Palmerolide A, which shows exceptional potential to specifically treat melanoma. The potency of palmerolide is exceptional and may prove to be more effective with less toxicity than current chemotherapy approaches.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 20, 2009

US coal peak production: Point and counterpoint

Experts Dr. David B. Rutledge and Robert C. Milici present opposing views on US coal peak production, with Rutledge estimating ultimate production at 665 billion metric tons and predicting mitigation of CO2 emissions from climate change. Milici's model predicts a range of 2062-2105 for peak production, citing uncertainty in reserve est...

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 20, 2009

Older workers spend less on necessities and health care

Research reveals that older workers in Missouri are spending more on transportation, education, and insurance but less on health care and out-of-pocket expenses. The study suggests that older Americans may be working due to financial needs rather than necessity, with lower healthcare costs indicating they might be healthier.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 20, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Better blood screening process needed to prevent babesiosis transmission

A recent study published in the journal Transfusion found a significant increase in transfusion-transmitted babesiosis cases in Rhode Island, highlighting the need for better screening tests. The research suggests that blood donors from areas with high prevalence rates should be subject to more rigorous screening protocols.

SourceLifespan·JournalTransfusion·DateOct 20, 2009

NASA technology key component of new diagnostic aid from DynaDx

DynaDx has released the Multimodal Pressure-Flow technique, which incorporates NASA's Hilbert-Huang Transform technology to analyze cerebral autoregulation. This allows for fast and reliable results in diagnosing conditions such as traumatic brain injury and hypertension.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 20, 2009

Scheduling key to green, efficient airports

A new computerized approach to airport operations aims to reduce delays by analyzing billions of possible scheduling combinations. The system will provide the best advice to controllers on where to send planes, ultimately decreasing pollution and saving thousands of liters of aviation fuel annually.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateOct 20, 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.

Media source impacts ag biotech communication

A study examines how public officials obtain information about debatable scientific issues, including agricultural biotechnology. Results show that Texas legislators relied more on the Cooperative Extension Service, while state FFA officers preferred online sources.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education·DateOct 20, 2009

Radiologists develop scale to help clinicians predict disease severity in infants with NEC

A new scale, the Duke Abdominal Assessment Scale (DAAS), helps clinicians determine disease severity and need for surgery in infants with NEC. The DAAS provides a standardized 10-point radiographic scale that increases with disease severity, enabling earlier detection of patients at risk for developing severe NEC.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateOct 20, 2009

Prolonged thumb sucking in infants may lead to speech impediments

Research suggests prolonged thumb sucking and pacifier use beyond 9 months may lead to speech disorders in young children. Delaying bottle use until 9 months old can reduce the risk of speech impediments. The study found that extended sucking behaviors outside breast-feeding tripled the likelihood of developing speech issues.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Pediatrics·DateOct 20, 2009

It takes 2 to tutor a sparrow

In a field study, University of Washington researchers found that juvenile song sparrows learn their repertoire by eavesdropping on singing conversations between two adult birds. This process involves tracking the birds' movements and responses to recorded bird songs played over two speakers.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateOct 20, 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.

News brief: Using relative utility curves for risk prediction

A relative utility curve is a simple method to evaluate risk prediction in medical decision-making frameworks. The author illustrates its application in analyzing previously published data involving breast density and risk prediction models for invasive breast cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 20, 2009

Luzon expecting a Lupit landfall

Typhoon Lupit is expected to make a brief landfall in northern Luzon, the Philippines on October 22. The storm's eye is forecast to hit around 8 p.m. local time, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 20, 2009

0.2 second test for explosive liquids

Researchers have developed a new spectroscopy method that can detect explosive liquids in plastic bottles instantly, improving airport security. The method uses electromagnetic radiation to identify materials and a nanoelectronic device to detect signals, creating a detailed 'thumbprint' of the liquid's molecular signature.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalSuperconductor Science and Technology·DateOct 20, 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.

EMBO welcomes 66 leading life scientists as members

EMBO has elected 66 top-life scientists with expertise in various molecular biology fields, including evolutionary and computational biology. The new members come from 16 countries and include 15 female researchers recognized for their contributions to life science research.

SourceEMBO·DateOct 20, 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.

Looking for the origins of music in the brain

Using electrophysiological recording techniques, researchers found neurons tuned to fundamental frequencies and harmonic sounds in awake monkeys. This discovery sheds light on the neural mechanisms of music processing and its potential therapeutic benefits for patients with severe neurological disorders.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateOct 20, 2009

Cuts to Mississippi levees could build new land in sinking delta

Researchers propose diverting sediment-rich water from Mississippi River to create new land, compensating for projected losses and protecting upriver areas. The model predicts creating up to 45% of the anticipated new land area, with enough flow remaining in the main channel for navigation.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalEos·DateOct 20, 2009

Recommended treatment for heart failure often underused

Recent data suggests that less than one-third of hospitalized heart failure patients received guideline-recommended aldosterone antagonist therapy. The study analyzed hospital-based quality improvement registry data and found modest increases in treatment use over time, but significant variation among hospitals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 20, 2009

New material could boost data storage, save energy

Engineers at North Carolina State University created a new material that can store equivalent of 20 high-definition DVDs or 250 million pages of text, far exceeding current computer memory systems. This breakthrough process also shows promise for boosting fuel economy and reducing heat in semiconductors.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJOM·DateOct 20, 2009

Texas A&M researchers find new mechanism for circadian rhythm

Researchers at Texas A&M University have found a new mechanism for regulating the circadian rhythm in chickens' eyes, which could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating diseases such as cancer and heart disease. The discovery involves microRNA-26a, a small RNA molecule that plays a crucial role in controlling the activity ...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 20, 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.

Fear of discrimination saw Paddys and Biddys decline

A study by Durham and Northumbria Universities found that second-generation Irish immigrants preferred English Protestant names over traditional Irish Catholic names, indicating a desire to minimize prejudice. The research suggests that this trend was also observed in other immigrant communities worldwide.

SourceDurham University·JournalAnnals of Human Biology·DateOct 20, 2009

Malaria vaccine bid attracts Gates Foundation support

The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute has received a US$100,000 Grand Challenges Explorations grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop a genetically attenuated live malaria vaccine. The project aims to provide strong and lasting immunity against Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes deadly human malaria.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateOct 20, 2009

Researchers can predict hurricane-related power outages

Researchers have developed a way to accurately predict power outages in advance of a hurricane, allowing utilities to plan crew requests and locations more effectively. The study's findings could help save utilities money and restore power faster after the storm.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalRisk Analysis·DateOct 20, 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.

Could some forms of mental retardation be treated with drugs?

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center found that a growth factor implicated in mental retardation disorders regulates dendritic spine development and spatial learning. Increasing the transport of this growth factor may be a way to treat these conditions.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateOct 20, 2009

Widespread use of teleradiology services could be declining

The use of external teleradiology services (EOTSs) has slowed in recent years, contradicting predictions of market expansion. Many radiology practices that initially adopted EOTSs have since stopped using them, suggesting a possible decline in their widespread adoption.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateOct 20, 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.

Scientists discover largest orb-weaving spider

Researchers have discovered a new giant golden orb weaver spider species, Nephila komaci, in South Africa and Madagascar, which is the largest web-spinning spider known to science. The female spiders of this species can reach up to 1.5 inches in body length, while males are significantly smaller.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 20, 2009

Presidential election outcome changed voters' testosterone

A study by researchers at Duke University and the University of Michigan found that men who voted for McCain or Barr experienced a significant drop in testosterone levels after the election results were announced. In contrast, Obama voters showed stable testosterone levels. The study suggests that vicarious participation in elections c...

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 20, 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.

Genomes of 2 popular research strains of E. coli sequenced

The genomes of two popular E. coli laboratory strains, K-12 and B, have been sequenced for the first time, revealing their genetic similarities and differences. The study provides valuable information on the evolutionary mechanisms that produced these differences and will guide future research in basic molecular biology and genetics.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateOct 20, 2009

Americans who believe in equality are more likely to buy on impulse

A study by Rice University's Jones Graduate School of Business found that Americans with low power-distance belief (PDB) scores tend to exhibit more self-control and be less impulsive when shopping. This results in spending one-and-a-half times more on daily items compared to those with high PDB scores.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateOct 20, 2009

Flu focus: NIH project aims for better drugs

Rice University scientists win grant to investigate flu virus's complex replication process and develop more effective antiviral drugs. The research will focus on understanding the assembly of viral RNA segments into a viable package, which is crucial for the virus to reproduce.

SourceRice University·DateOct 20, 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.

ConocoPhillips, Penn State award energy prize

Scott Anderson of Palm Beach, Fla., and his team won the 2009 ConocoPhillips Energy Prize with their ECO-Auger, a hydrokinetic machine harnessing tidal currents for renewable electric energy. The prize recognizes innovative ideas to create a more secure energy future.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 20, 2009

Experimental treatments restore partial vision to blind people

Researchers have developed two experimental treatments that restored some vision to people with blinding eye diseases. A retinal prosthesis and fetal tissue transplant showed promise in human studies, improving visual acuity in several individuals with retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 20, 2009

MIT: Muscle 'synergies' may be key to stroke treatment

Researchers at MIT and San Camillo Hospital have shown that motor impairments in stroke patients can be understood as impairments in specific combinations of muscle activity. The findings support the concept of synergies, which are thought to represent fundamental building blocks for complex movements.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 20, 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: Teachers' unions don't provide more pay

A recent study by Cornell economist Michael Lovenheim found that teachers' unions have little impact on school districts' allocation of money, including teacher pay and spending per student. Unionization was linked to an increase in the number of teachers employed, but this effect was offset by increases in student enrollment, resultin...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateOct 20, 2009

Stereotypes can fuel teen misbehavior

A study by Christy Buchanan found that adolescents whose mothers expected them to take more risks and be more rebellious reported higher levels of risk-taking behavior. Parents who expect their kids to become rebellious at a certain age may inadvertently contribute to negative behaviors.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateOct 20, 2009

Major swine flu outbreak at US Air Force Academy, unique opportunity to study virus behavior

A recent large-scale swine flu outbreak at the US Air Force Academy provided valuable insights into the natural behavior of the nH1N1 virus, including shedding patterns. The study found that viable virus shedding occurred in about one quarter of confirmed patients and persisted even after symptom-free periods.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 20, 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.

Exon-skipping drug prevents muscle wasting, maintains muscle function in dystrophin deficient mice

A new publication in Molecular Therapy outlines the dramatic effects of an exon skipping PPMO in preventing severe deterioration of dystrophin-deficient mice. The treatment restores dystrophin protein expression and maintains near-normal muscle function, suggesting great potential for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients.

SourceRathbun Communications, INC.·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateOct 20, 2009

Ernesto Illy Trieste Science Prize winners 2009

Pramod Kumar Aggarwal and Carlos Clemente Cerri are the winners of the 2009 TWAS Ernesto Illy Trieste Science Prize, recognized for their groundbreaking research on climate change's impact on agriculture. Their work aims to enhance understanding of climate change's effects on food supplies and develop innovative strategies to mitigate ...

SourceTWAS·DateOct 20, 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.

Health information exchange conquers new frontier: Emergency medical services

Emergency medical services providers can now securely access patients' pre-existing health information, enabling informed treatment decisions and efficient care delivery. The Indiana Network for Patient Care (INPC) link allows paramedics and EMTs to access patient records in real-time, improving care quality and safety.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·DateOct 20, 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.

Seismic noise unearths lost hurricanes

Scientists are using seismic noise to reconstruct the history of hurricanes in the North Atlantic, analyzing patterns produced during hurricanes and regular storms. Preliminary results suggest that hurricanes produce recognizable patterns, allowing researchers to potentially establish a link between global warming and hurricane frequen...

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 20, 2009

Teens aim to make a difference through invention

The Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam initiative awards $10,000 grants to 15 teams of high school students to create technological solutions for global challenges. These projects include a human-powered UV water filtration device and a physical therapy chair designed to reduce muscular atrophy.

SourceLemelson-MIT Program·DateOct 20, 2009

Illness often undiscovered and undertreated among the uninsured: Harvard study

A new Harvard study reveals that uninsured adults with diabetes or high cholesterol are more likely to be misdiagnosed and undertreated. The researchers found significant gaps in care for these conditions, with the uninsured being more likely to experience poor blood pressure control and inadequate treatment.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 20, 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.

Tropical Storm Rick's center expected to pass south of the Baja

Tropical Storm Rick is expected to pass south of the Baja, bringing heavy rainfall to extreme southern Baja California and northwestern Mexico. The storm's center is currently located 200 miles south-southwest of Cabo San Lucas, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 20, 2009

Smallest nanoantennas for high-speed data networks

Researchers at KIT have successfully manufactured the world's smallest optical nanoantennas from gold using electron beam lithography. These nanoantennas enable rapid information transmission and are considered a major basis for new optical high-speed data networks.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNanotechnology·DateOct 20, 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.

UF receives $12.2 million to establish national network of scientists

The University of Florida and collaborators will implement a new networking system across seven schools, linking researchers nationally and internationally to facilitate collaborations and improve ongoing studies. The program aims to create a verifiable database of researchers using Cornell's VIVO software.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateOct 20, 2009