Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 26, 2010


Breakthrough in understanding life-threatening childhood liver disease

Researchers found that an infection late in pregnancy or after birth may trigger autoimmune process attacking the bile ducts, leading to scarring and blockage. This discovery points to new diagnostic tests and improved treatment options for biliary atresia.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateOct 26, 2010

Extinction threat growing for vertebrates, researchers report in Science

A study published in Science reports that one-fifth of vertebrate species are threatened, with declines accelerating over the past few decades. Conservation measures have mitigated this trend, with certain approaches proving more effective than others, such as controlling invasive species.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

School attendance, refusal skills combat smoking risk in youth

A University of Missouri researcher found that school attendance and refusal skills are key factors in combating smoking among youth, particularly Asian Americans. The study indicates a 300% increase in smoking among Asian Americans ages 12-17 compared to those age 18 years and older.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateOct 26, 2010

Scented consumer products shown to emit many unlisted chemicals

A study by the University of Washington found that 25 commonly used scented products release an average of 17 chemicals each, with nearly a quarter classified as toxic or hazardous. The majority of these chemicals were not listed on product labels or disclosed to consumers.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEnvironmental Impact Assessment Review·DateOct 26, 2010

New snub-nosed monkey discovered in Northern Myanmar

A new species of snub-nosed monkey, Rhinopithecus strykeri, has been discovered in Northern Myanmar with distinctive characteristics. The species is critically endangered due to increasing hunting pressure from logging road construction by Chinese companies, threatening its survival.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·DateOct 26, 2010

Breaching the breech protocol

Researchers at Tel Aviv University argue that traditional vaginal delivery for breech babies is not only safe but also safer than C-sections. The study's findings indicate reduced morbidity and mortality for mothers. The expert advocates for retraining obstetricians and midwives in traditional techniques to revive vaginal birth methods.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateOct 26, 2010

VCA fellowship funding to extend ovarian cancer research

Dr Clare Scott's VCA fellowship aims to uncover the origins of ovarian cancer and develop new laboratory models for studying human cancers. The funding will also support the use of a web portal, CART-WHEEL.org, to coordinate patient information and research studies.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

Targeted radiation therapy minimizes GI side effects for prostate cancer patients, Penn study shows

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) minimizes gastrointestinal complications in prostate cancer patients. The study compared IMRT to three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy and found that men treated with IMRT had fewer serious bowel complications.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateOct 26, 2010

Research proves 'gender-bending' chemicals affect reproduction

A four-year study found that endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect the ability of wild fish to breed, with intersex fish experiencing reduced reproductive performance. The research highlights the potential long-term impact of these chemicals on ecosystem health and human health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 26, 2010

Getting the big picture quickly

Researchers created a software that quickly edits massive images, called ViSUS, allowing users to interactively edit and analyze them in seconds. This technology has the potential to transform various fields such as medicine, where it can be used to edit medical images like MRI and CT scans.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateOct 26, 2010

Nature's backbone at risk

The study confirms an extinction crisis with one-fifth of species threatened, but highlights the positive impact of global conservation efforts. Conservation actions have prevented a decline in biodiversity by nearly 20%, with 64 species improving in status and three species being re-introduced back to nature.

SourceIUCN·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

Restaurant customers willing to pay more for local food

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that restaurant patrons are willing to pay more for meals made with local ingredients. When the price of local options was 18% higher than non-local options, a higher proportion of customers chose the local meal.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Revenue Management·DateOct 26, 2010

Better transparency needed on medical journals' competing interests

A study found that medical journals with higher levels of industry support had lower impact factors. The researchers suggest that journals should apply the same level of transparency to themselves as they do to authors. By disclosing sources and amounts of income, journals can improve trust and maintain their reputation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 26, 2010

New insight into links between obesity and activity in the brain

A study by University of Cambridge researchers has revealed that an anti-obesity drug changes the way the brain responds to high-calorie foods in obese individuals. The drug sibutramine reduced activity in two regions of the brain involved in appetite control and eating behaviour, leading to greater weight loss.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

Newfoundland researchers crack the genetic code of a sudden death cardiac killer

Newfoundland researchers have cracked the genetic code of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), a rare genetic condition causing sudden cardiac death. The team developed an implantable cardiodefibrillator program to prevent fatal arrhythmic events, significantly improving survival rates among high-risk individuals.

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada·DateOct 26, 2010

Emissions from consumption outstrip efficiency savings

Carbon dioxide emissions from UK consumption grew by 217 Million tonnes(Mt) of carbon dioxide from increased spending, while efficiency improvements led to reductions of 148 Mt, resulting in a net growth of 69 Mt. The study highlights the importance of taking a global perspective when analyzing CO2 emission patterns.

SourceUniversity of York·DateOct 26, 2010

World's vertebrates face increasing risk of extinction

A new assessment reveals that 20% of the world's vertebrates are currently threatened with extinction, with 52 species moving closer to extinction each year. The study highlights the alarming rate of decline among vertebrate species globally.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2010

WHO pesticide regulations should be based on toxicity in humans, not rats

A study published in PLoS Medicine found that agricultural pesticide poisoning is the single most common means of suicide worldwide, with significant variation in case fatality rates among different pesticides. The authors argue that basing regulation on human toxicity, rather than animal data, could help reduce suicides and improve pu...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 26, 2010

Consuming polyunsaturated fatty acids may lower the incidence of gum disease

A study found that consuming polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, is associated with a reduced prevalence of periodontitis. The research suggests that dietary therapy using n-3 fatty acids could be a less expensive and safer method for preventing and treating gum disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

A new player in the innate immunity game?

Scientists have discovered that long non-protein-coding RNA (lncRNA) are involved in the host response to viral infection. The study found that lncRNAs were triggered by virus infection and regulated in response, suggesting a new paradigm shift in understanding of innate immunity.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateOct 26, 2010

Follow-ups prove powerful tool for treating depression in primary care

A new study by University of Michigan researchers shows that providing small amounts of flexible, targeted follow-up care can help chronically depressed patients manage their symptoms. The approach includes self-monitoring tools and follow-up phone calls from a care manager, resulting in higher remission rates and reduced-function days.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateOct 26, 2010

Stephan Grill wins the 2011 Paul Ehrlich Prize for Young Researchers

Dr. Stephan Grill's innovative laser-assisted method enables non-invasive measurement of mechanical forces in living cells, opening new avenues for understanding interactions between mechanics and biochemistry in cell biology. The Paul Ehrlich Prize recognizes his outstanding contributions to the field.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

USDA scientists helping keep in-demand smoked salmon safe to eat

USDA scientists have developed a first-of-its-kind mathematical model to select optimal temperature and salt concentrations to reduce or eliminate microbial contamination in smoked salmon. The research aims to protect the pleasing flavor and texture of smoked salmon while ensuring food safety.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateOct 26, 2010

NSF awards new projects for plant genome research

The National Science Foundation has awarded $101.9 million in new grants to advance knowledge of genome structure and function, focusing on economically important crop plants such as corn, cotton, and soybean. The projects aim to improve the quality and yield of these crops and support the bio-based economy.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateOct 26, 2010

OU researchers receive $2.9M DOE EPSCoR grant

A University of Oklahoma research team has established a new Center for Interfacial Reaction Engineering, focusing on biofuel and fossil fuel upgrading using revolutionary nanocatalysts. The $2.9M grant will accelerate reactions at the interface of water and oil, creating emulsions for refining processes.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

November 2010 Geology and GSA Today highlights

Researchers propose new techniques for analyzing methane hydrate structures, finding signs of life in iron-oxide-rich spheres and pipes near Escalante, Utah. The study also explores the impact of the Three Gorges Dam on the middle Yangtze, as well as a ~300-million-year-old bivalve shell.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateOct 26, 2010

Cardiac wakeup call for Canadian kids

A study of Canadian adolescents found that poor sleep patterns, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diets are increasing cardiovascular risk factors. Experts recommend implementing healthy habits at schools to reduce the alarming trend in poor sleep among teens.

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

6 new isotopes of the superheavy elements discovered

A team of scientists has detected six new isotopes of superheavy elements, including copernicium and rutherfordium. The discovery contributes to a better understanding of the theory of nuclear shell structure and its potential for creating an 'Island of Stability'.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 26, 2010

New American Chemical Society podcast: 'Green exercise' for good mental health

A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that five minutes of green exercise can improve mental health. The research analyzed data from 1,252 people and showed a tangible impact on mood and self-esteem. ACS' Global Challenges podcast series explores this topic further.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 26, 2010

Mosquito monitoring saves lives and money, analysis finds

Researchers conclude that cutting mosquito surveillance would lead to exponential increases in human cases and health costs. A delayed response can result in drastically escalated costs, with some estimates suggesting a 10-fold increase. The study highlights the need for sustained funding of mosquito surveillance programs.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

Study identifies key molecules in multiple myeloma

Researchers have identified key molecules in multiple myeloma that can trigger expression of the P53 tumor suppressor gene, slowing cell growth and leading to death. The study suggests re-activating these microRNAs could provide a new treatment strategy for the disease.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 26, 2010

Haptoglobin as an early serum biomarker of virus-induced type 1 diabetes in rats

Researchers have discovered haptoglobin as a reliable serum biomarker for predicting the onset of virus-induced type 1 diabetes in rats. The findings suggest that sustained elevations of serum haptoglobin are predictive of ensuing diabetes, with early detection potentially allowing for timely intervention.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateOct 26, 2010

Current loss tracked down by magnetic fingerprint

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have developed a method to reveal how electricity is being lost in organic solar cells by manipulating the magnetic properties of charge-carrying particles. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in organic solar cell technology.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 26, 2010

Women still work double shifts

A Spanish study found that women disproportionately carry the burden of household chores, even as they participate more in the workforce. Only 12% of women share household tasks with their partner, while 55% take on all responsibilities, highlighting the need for greater gender equality.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalSex Roles·DateOct 26, 2010

Tendency to obesity starts with pre-schoolers

A two-year study found that children who approach food with emotional over-eating or boredom tend to be overweight, while those who avoid food due to fussiness or slow eating are more likely to be underweight. The researchers suggest that household environments and parental behaviors play a significant role in shaping these early food ...

SourceUniversity of Alberta - Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation·JournalInternational Journal of Pediatric Obesity·DateOct 26, 2010
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.

Tornado warnings are too often ignored

A recent study by Michigan State University found that only 63 percent of people understand the severity of tornado warnings. The research suggests that prior experience with severe weather plays a significant role in how people react to warnings.

SourceMichigan State University·DateOct 26, 2010

New software brings facial-recognition technology to mobile phones

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a new software that can track facial features on mobile phones with high accuracy. The technology, built on 20 years of research, has great potential to replace passwords and PIN numbers, enabling novel ways of interacting with phones.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateOct 26, 2010

Study suggests a third of shark and ray species are threatened

A global study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reveals that 33% of shark, skate, and ray species are threatened with extinction. Conservation actions have benefited a few vertebrate species worldwide, but insufficient efforts to slow the overall increase in threatened species.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

70 children died from H1N1 influenza in England over 9 month period; ethnic minorities and those with serious pre-existing disorders had highest mortality; these children should be vaccinated as a priority

A study found 70 pediatric deaths related to pandemic influenza A H1N1 in England over a 9-month period. Children from Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities had significantly higher mortality rates compared to white British children.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 26, 2010

Water could hold answer to graphene nanoelectronics

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new method to tune the band gap of graphene using water. By exposing graphene to humidity, they created a band gap in the nanomaterial, opening the door to new graphene-based transistors and nanoelectronics.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalSmall·DateOct 26, 2010

In a challenging infant heart defect, two-thirds may have high chance of survival

Researchers from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia report that two-thirds of fetuses with HLHS have a strong chance of survival after reconstructive surgery. The study, which analyzed 240 cases over five years, found that standard-risk fetuses had a higher survival rate compared to high-risk cases.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 26, 2010

Scrambling for climate change solutions

Researchers have discovered that eggshell membranes can absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, with one study showing absorption of up to seven times the membrane's own weight. This finding presents a promising approach for mitigating climate change by utilizing waste eggshells as a carbon capture material.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Global Warming·DateOct 26, 2010

Study raises concern about ability of tests to predict fertility

A recent study from the University of North Carolina Health Care found that current infertility tests may label many women as infertile who actually get pregnant naturally. The researchers suggest using another hormone, antimullerian hormone (AMH), as a more accurate predictor of fertility.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateOct 26, 2010
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.