Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 23, 2009


Study reveals 2/3 of prostate cancer patients do not need treatment

A study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that 60% of prostate cancer cases lack aggressive protein Hsp-27, allowing for careful monitoring instead of treatment. The research could lead to a blood test to distinguish between aggressive and non-aggressive forms of prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateSep 23, 2009

UK's £30M center for cyber security opens at Queen's

The £30 million Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) will create 80 new positions and become the UK's principal centre for counteracting malicious cyber-attacks. Leading edge research will help keep crime off the internet, combat anti-social behaviour, and safeguard electronic information.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·DateSep 23, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New cancer drug test promises safer and more effective clinical trials

A new preclinical drug test platform developed by researchers in Hamburg enables analysis of tumour tissue for individual patient drug responses on the molecular level. This allows for more accurate extrapolation of response from preclinical cell models to patients, reducing the risk of toxicity and improving clinical trial efficiency.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateSep 23, 2009

Depression and anxiety disorders of adolescents are not the same thing

A recent study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry suggests that adolescent depression and anxiety disorders are not the same thing. The research, led by Dr. William W. Hale III, found that these two conditions have different symptoms and characteristics, contrary to current classification in the DSM-V.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateSep 23, 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.

Increased risk of birth defects after PCE exposure

Research published in Environmental Health found an increased risk of oral clefts and neural tube defects among children born to mothers exposed to tetrachloroethylene (PCE) during pregnancy. The study, conducted in Cape Cod towns between 1969-1983, suggests a link between PCE exposure and birth defects.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateSep 23, 2009

MIT retinal implant could help restore some vision

Researchers at MIT have designed a retinal implant that can help restore some vision in individuals who have lost their sight due to these conditions. The chip stimulates nerve cells in the retina to bypass damaged layers and transmit signals to the brain.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 23, 2009

News brief: Merkel cell polyomavirus associated with Merkel cell carcinoma

A new study has associated Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) with Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive skin cancer. The study found that nearly all patients with Merkel cell carcinoma carried antibodies against MCPyV, suggesting a strong link between the virus and the disease.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 23, 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.

Ratchet-like genetic mutations make evolution irreversible

Researchers at the University of Oregon have found that evolution can only go forward, as genetic mutations block paths to ancestral genes. The team resurrected ancient proteins and manipulated them to study reverse evolution, discovering that restrictive mutations act like an evolutionary ratchet, preventing reversal.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 2009

New study finds way to stop excessive bone growth following trauma or surgery

A recent US Army study found that up to 70% of severely wounded soldiers develop excessive bone growth, causing severe pain and mobility issues. Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered a way to prevent this condition by disrupting cellular changes needed to produce bone tissue.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateSep 23, 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.

SPIRIT IV trial shows everolimus stent sets new standard for event-free survival

The SPIRIT IV trial demonstrates enhanced safety and efficacy of everolimus-eluting stents compared to paclitaxel-eluting stents, resulting in a 38% reduction in target lesion failure (TLF) rate at one year. The study also found significant reductions in ischemia-driven TLR and stent thrombosis rates with the everolimus stent.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 23, 2009

Rice awarded $5M for light-based crystal simulator

A Rice University-led team will build a simulator capable of tackling high-temperature superconductivity using ultracold atoms and lasers. The goal is to study complex materials like cuprate superconductors, which are still not fully understood.

SourceRice University·DateSep 23, 2009

ALMA telescope reaches new heights

The ALMA telescope has successfully transported its first antenna to a high-altitude site in Chile, marking the start of the next phase of the project. The move allows for improved astronomical observations using millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths, key to exploring cosmic origins.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateSep 23, 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.

Smart memory foam made smarter

Researchers at Northwestern University and Boise State University have developed a less expensive shape-shifting memory foam using a nickel-manganese-gallium alloy. The new material exhibits 'magnetic shape-memory' properties, allowing it to retain its new shape when exposed to a magnetic field.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 23, 2009

Rising above the din

Studies at the Salk Institute found that attention reduces background activity, increasing neural signal fidelity by a factor of up to four times. This reduction in noise accounts for approximately 80% of the improvement in perceptual discrimination when focusing on sensory stimuli.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateSep 23, 2009

Multiple strokes rather than underlying vascular risk factors increase risk of post-stroke dementia

A systematic review found that post-stroke dementia rates varied greatly, but were closely related to stroke characteristics and complications. The authors suggest that optimum acute stroke care and secondary prevention measures could reduce the burden of dementia. Further studies are needed to identify independent predictive factors.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateSep 23, 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.

UA awarded $4.35 million to study Earth's critical zone

The University of Arizona has been awarded a $4.35 million grant from the National Science Foundation to establish a Critical Zone Observatory in the Southwest. The observatory will study the ecological, geological and hydrological components of the critical zone, which is the area between the treetops and the groundwater table. By com...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateSep 23, 2009

Brown scientists announce finding of water on the moon

Scientists at Brown University have found evidence of water molecules on the moon's surface, with up to 1,000 parts-per-million in lunar soil. This discovery could provide a mechanism for water to reach permanently shadowed craters, opening new avenues for lunar research.

SourceBrown University·DateSep 23, 2009

SAGE partners with ICRS to launch Cartilage

The new journal will publish full-length original manuscripts on all types of cartilage, including articular, tracheal/bronchial, and intervertebral disc fibrocartilage. It aims to bridge a gap in the literature by focusing on both clinical and basic science perspectives of cartilage research and repair.

SourceSAGE·JournalCartilage·DateSep 23, 2009

Study looks at using the immune system to reduce prostate cancer risk

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center suggests that genetic risk of prostate cancer can be reduced by rescuing critical immune system cells. In mice with a gene called lymphotoxin alpha, these cells come back and delay tumor formation, potentially slowing cancer growth and spread.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 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.

Novel 'on-off switch' mechanism stops cancer in its tracks

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a novel mechanism that stops cancer cells from growing and dividing. The 'on-off switch' mechanism involves a tiny bit of genetic material that regulates the function of tumor-suppressor proteins, preventing cancer cells from proliferating.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 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.

'Green' roofs may help put lid on global warming

Green roofs can capture more than 55,000 tons of carbon per urban area of one million people, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fighting climate change. The study found that green roofs not only absorb CO2 but also reduce heating costs and retain stormwater.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 23, 2009

Research team finds first evolutionary branching for bilateral animals

A research team has found the first evolutionary branching for bilateral animals, resolving a long-standing debate about a group of ancient flatworms called Acoelomorpha. The study reveals that Acoelomorpha is a sister clade to other bilateral animals, providing key insights into the most recent common ancestor.

SourceBrown University·DateSep 23, 2009

Lotus-plant-inspired dust-busting shield to protect space gear

NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center is developing a transparent coating that mimics the self-cleaning properties of the lotus plant to prevent dirt from sticking to space gear and bacteria from growing inside astronaut living quarters. The coating, made primarily from silica, zinc oxide, and other oxides, offers great potential for use ...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 23, 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.

International scientists set boundaries for survival

Researchers propose nine planetary boundaries, including climate change and biodiversity loss, which have already been crossed or are at risk of being transgressed. The study aims to provide an important element for sustainable development by identifying critical thresholds that humanity must respect.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 2009

Discovery could improve hepatitis C treatment

Researchers discovered a genetic variation near the interferon gene IL28B associated with people's response to treatment. This finding could lead to the development of a diagnostic test and more effective treatments for hepatitis C, reducing adverse effects and improving outcomes.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 23, 2009

New test quickly ID's active TB in smear-negative patients

A new ELISpot test can rapidly identify active tuberculosis in smear-negative patients, distinguishing it from latent TB infection. The test's accuracy is confirmed with a high positive rate of 91.5% in patients with active TB.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 23, 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.

New stove dramatically improves lung health in Mexican women

A recent study found that using a vented stove instead of traditional indoor open fires significantly improves respiratory health in Mexican women. The study showed that women who used the Patsari stove had improved lung function and reduced symptoms compared to those who used open wood fires.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 23, 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.

'Back-breaking' work beliefs contribute to health workers' pain

A Danish study found that healthcare workers' fear-avoidance beliefs about physical activity and work are predictive of developing lower back pain. The study suggests that changing these beliefs may be beneficial for treatment and prevention.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Musculoskeletal Disorders·DateSep 23, 2009

Canada's G8 leadership must address catastrophic failure in progress towards Millennium Development Goals

Canada faces a pressing challenge to address the deteriorating progress towards Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The Lancet urges Canada to make significant contributions in five key areas: health system strengthening, climate change, peace through health, Indigenous Health, and establishing a Canadian Health Action Network for Glo...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 23, 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.

Mount Sinai leads large multicenter study finding evidence that a drug might slow Parkinson's

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine report a promising result from the ADAGIO trial, finding that rasagiline may slow Parkinson's disease progression. The study used a novel design to examine the effect of early treatment on disease progression, and found benefits for patients starting therapy with rasagiline.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 23, 2009

Scientists call for humanity to 'set safe boundaries to the damage'

Researchers propose setting upper limits on CO2 levels, species extinction rates, freshwater use, and other environmental factors to avoid irreversible changes. The proposed thresholds aim to ensure a stable future for humanity, with exceeding these boundaries potentially leading to catastrophic consequences.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 2009

Paper battery may power electronics in clothing and packaging material

A new battery made of cellulose shows promise for powering flexible electronics, such as clothing and packaging. The battery's performance is improved by coating a conductive polymer on individual cellulose fibers, creating a nano-thin coating that enables efficient electricity storage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 23, 2009

Lasers from space show thinning of Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets

Satellite lasers have created a comprehensive picture of rapidly thinning glaciers along the coastline of both Antarctica and Greenland. The most profound ice loss is attributed to glaciers accelerating as they flow into the sea, with this phenomenon now reaching all latitudes in Greenland and intensifying on key Antarctic coastlines.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 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.

Denver to Barcelona: Global cities and greenhouse gas emissions

A new study documents how climate, population density and factors affect GHG emissions in global cities, with Denver releasing the largest amount of gases and Barcelona the smallest. The study identifies strategies for reducing emissions, including carbon reduction and efficient transportation systems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 23, 2009