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Here is your customized Phys.org Newsletter for November 5, 2012:
Spotlight Stories Headlines
- Learning a new sense: Scientists observe as humans learn to sense like a rat, with 'whiskers'- AMD rolls out 6300 server chips for higher performance / watt
- Laser the size of a virus particle operates at room temperature, defies the diffraction limit of light
- New, high-resolution global ocean circulation models identify trigger for Earth's last big freeze
- Research discovers how brain activity changes when anesthesia induces unconsciousness
- 2001-2002 drought helped propel mountain pine beetle epidemic, study finds
- Researchers identify unexpected bottleneck in the spread of herpes simplex virus
- The knowing nose: Chemosignals communicate human emotions
- Computers 'taught' to ID regulating gene sequences
- Study reports faster, more economical method for detecting bioterror threats
- Study: Carbon buried in the soil rises again
- First gene therapy study in human salivary gland shows promise
- New DNA vaccine technology poised to deliver safe and cost-effective disease protection
- Warming temperatures cause aquatic animals to shrink the most
- Superbug MRSA identified in US wastewater treatment plants
Space & Earth news
Smallholder farmers need improved stake in Nile's development
A new book finds that the Nile river, together with its associated tributaries and rainfall, could provide 11 countries—including a new country, South Sudan, and the drought-plagued countries of the Horn of Africa—with enough water to support a vibrant agriculture sector, but that the poor in the region who rely on the river for their food and incomes risk missing out on these benefits without effective and inclusive water management policies.
Movement along fault lines in the Netherlands due to groundwater variation
TU Delft has carried out research into geological fault lines in the Netherlands, using new satellite techniques. The movement that has been identified in this way is not caused by shifting tectonic plates, however, but is primarily the result of groundwater level variations. Miguel Caro Cuenca has been awarded his PhD for research on this topic on 2 November.
Laos to start construction of mega dam 'this week'
Laos on Monday said it would start construction of a controversial multi-billion dollar dam this week, after adapting the design to calm environmental concerns from neighbouring nations.
Once in a lifetime experience for theSkyNet citizen scientist
Last week the top contributor to citizen science initiative theSkyNet travelled to the heart of the West Australian outback to visit the future site of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio telescope.
Field geologists (finally) going digital
Not very long ago a professional geologist's field kit consisted of a Brunton compass, rock hammer, magnifying glass, and field notebook. No longer. In the field and in the labs and classrooms, studying Earth has undergone an explosive change in recent years, fueled by technological leaps in handheld digital devices, especially tablet computers and cameras.
In 'Chasing Ice,' climate change gets its close up
(AP)—There is a scene in the documentary "Chasing Ice" that shows the edge of the massive Ilulissat glacier in Greenland collapsing—or "calving"—and violently crashing into the sea below. The piece of ice that breaks away is compared to the size of lower Manhattan, and appears taller than any building there.
From grasses to shrubs: How plants reinforce desertification
(Phys.org)—Research into how fragile dryland ecosystems degrade into deserts has revealed that the transition from grasslands to desert shrubs may be reinforced by the plants themselves. The study, conducted at the University of Bristol, demonstrates for the first time that grass and shrub areas lose very different amounts of nutrients during rainfall events, which may be significant in how desert shrubs persist in these landscapes.
Huge new ESA tracking station is ready for duty
To keep in contact with an ever growing armada of spacecraft ESA has developed a tracking station network called ESTRACK. This is a worldwide system of ground stations providing links between satellites in orbit and ESA's Operations Control Centre (ESOC) located in Darmstadt, Germany. The core ESTRACK network comprises 10 stations in seven countries. Major construction has now been completed on the final piece of this cosmic jigsaw, one of the world's most sophisticated satellite tracking stations at Malargüe, Argentina, 1000 km west of Buenos Aires.
NASA investigates the 'FaINT' side of sonic booms
(Phys.org)—Sonic booms created by aircraft flying faster than the speed of sound certainly aren't known for being faint, but rather for their loud, make-you-jump startle effect for those who experience them. However, sonic booms have a quieter, fainter side, too.
Superstorm animation: Researchers show Sandy's explosive development (w/ Video)
(Phys.org)—A computer animation produced by University of Delaware researchers shows the explosive development of Hurricane Sandy, the superstorm and its unusual track.
SpaceX's 10-story reuseable Grasshopper rocket takes a bigger hop
SpaceX is developing the "Grasshopper" reusable vertical takeoff, vertical landing rocket. Back in September, the 32-meter- (106-ft-) tall Grasshopper made a tiny hop – barely lifting off the pad just to test-fire its engines. But now the Grasshopper has made a second, bigger hop. Over the weekend, Elon Musk quietly tweeted a link to a video, saying, "First flight of 10 story tall Grasshopper rocket using closed loop thrust vector & throttle control."
The evolution of creationism
Throughout history, people have sought to understand how the world came to be and how it has changed over time. This curiosity has produced a rich legacy of science and philosophy and impacted and influenced religion and theology. In the November 2012 issue of GSA Today, David Montgomery of the University of Washington examines both the history of geology and of biblical views regarding Earth's origins.
NASA's SPoRT team tracks Hurricane Sandy
(Phys.org)—As Hurricane Sandy wreaked havoc on the east coast, weather experts at the Short-term Prediction Research and Transition, or SPoRT Center at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville were busy developing information to help forecasters better predict the massive storm.
Taking the 'pulse' of volcanoes using satellite images
A new study by scientists at the University of Miami (UM) Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science uses Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) data to investigate deformation prior to the eruption of active volcanoes in Indonesia's west Sunda arc. Led by geophysicist Estelle Chaussard and UM Professor Falk Amelung, the study uncovered evidence that several volcanoes did in fact 'inflate' prior to eruptions due to the rise of magma. The fact that such deformation could be detected by satellite is a major step forward in volcanology; it is the first unambiguous evidence that remotely detected ground deformation could help to forecast eruptions at volcanoes.
Hydro-fracking: Fact vs. fiction
In communities across the U.S., people are hearing more and more about a controversial oil and gas extraction technique called hydraulic fracturing – aka, hydro-fracking. Controversies pivot on some basic questions: Can hydro-fracking contaminate domestic wells? Does it cause earthquakes? How can we know? What can be done about these things if they are true? A wide range of researchers will address these and related critical questions at the GSA Annual Meeting this week.
Massive volcanic eruption puts past climate and people in perspective
The largest volcanic eruption on Earth in the past millions of years took place in Indonesia 74,000 years ago and researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute can now link the colossal eruption with the global climate and the effects on early humans. The results are published in the scientific journal Climate of the Past.
Hypergiant star turns out to be 'missing link' after 30 years
(Phys.org)—A team of scientists from six European countries reported today they have finalized a thirty years long investigation of a hypergiant star that crossed the Yellow Evolutionary Void. In that period the star's surface temperature quickly rose from five to eight thousand degrees. With this discovery a crucial 'missing link' in the evolution of hypergiant stars has been found.
After long-ago mass extinction, global warming hindered species' recovery
Researchers have discovered why plants and animals had a hard time recovering from the largest mass extinction in Earth's history 250 million years ago.
The nucleus of a comet undone: Scientists monitor Hergenrother's breakup
(Phys.org)—The Hergenrother comet is currently traversing the inner-solar system. Amateur and professional astronomers alike have been following the icy-dirt ball over the past several weeks as it has been generating a series of impressive outbursts of cometary-dust material. Now comes word that the comet's nucleus has taken the next step in its relationship with Mother Nature.
Scientists' role in swaying public opinion studied
(Phys.org)—Whatever their political persuasion, people are more likely to believe that global warming is caused by humans if they find out that most climate change scientists believe this is the case.
Study: Carbon buried in the soil rises again
A research team that includes a University of California, Davis, plant scientist has identified a source of carbon emissions that could play a role in understanding past and future global change.
New, high-resolution global ocean circulation models identify trigger for Earth's last big freeze
For more than 30 years, climate scientists have debated whether flood waters from melting of the enormous Laurentide Ice Sheet, which ushered in the last major cold episode on Earth about 12,900 years ago, flowed northwest into the Arctic first, or east via the Gulf of St. Lawrence, to weaken ocean thermohaline circulation and have a frigid effect on global climate.
Technology news
#WhyImNotVotingFor... Obama, Romney fans wage tweet war
As Barack Obama and Mitt Romney made a final dash Sunday for the coveted US presidency less than 48 hours ahead of election day, their supporters took to Twitter to wage a strident online war of words.
Nuclear power or shale gas? Poland may have to choose
Poland has set it sights on building its first nuclear power station and developing shale gas, but experts believe it may soon have to choose one or the other as investing in both could prove too costly.
Anonymous movement protests on Guy Fawkes night
(AP)—Several hundred protesters wearing masks have gathered outside the British Parliament to mark Guy Fawkes night.
Older CBS shows coming to pay service Hulu Plus
(AP)—Older CBS shows like "Medium" and "Numb3rs" are coming to the $8-per-month online video service Hulu Plus.
S.Korea predicts power cuts as nuke reactors shut
South Korea was forced to shut down two nuclear reactors on Monday to replace components that had not been properly vetted, a minister said, warning of "unprecedented" power shortages to follow.
Toyota quarterly profit triples, raises forecast
(AP)—Toyota's quarterly profit tripled, driven by a recovery from natural disasters, and the company raised its full-year earnings forecast Monday despite a sales slump in China.
From rocket fuel to hydrogen-powered clean cars
(Phys.org)—Austrian manufacturer MagnaSteyr has adapted technology developed for the Ariane rocket to build clean-burning cars that can use hydrogen instead of petrol for fuel.
New FJVPS capable of producing 3-D assembly procedure videos in fewer than 3 hours
Fujitsu and Digital Process Limited today announced the availability of FJVPS V15L13, a new Virtual Product Simulator from Fujitsu (FJVPS) digital production preparation tool for customers in the assembly manufacturing industry that assists in considering product assembly processes using 3D models.
Netflix moves to block a hostile takeover (Update)
(AP)—Netflix is moving to protect itself against hostile takeovers, less than a week after activist investor Carl Icahn disclosed that he has accumulated a stake of nearly 10 percent in the online video company.
Sensors for the real world
Over the last decade there has been an increased interest in developing resonators for gravitmetric sensing; however, the sensors' response to variations in temperature has prevented them from being used outside the laboratory. New sensors developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge negate the effects of temperature so that they may be used in industries including health care, telecommunications and environmental monitoring.
Build your own home theater for full-blast entertainment with 'Virtual Sound Ball'
Watching a 3 dimensional (3D) film at home can be just as real and fun as going to a movie theater. Professor Yang-Hann Kim and Research Professor Jung-Woo Choi from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, have succeeded in building an audio rendering system that will considerably improve the current 3D audio effects technology.
Connected vehicle, roadway test sites operating in Virginia
Someday, your auto and the roadway will be in constant communication and able to suggest route changes to avoid accidents, construction, and congestion; coordinate your vehicle with signal lights, other vehicles, and lane markers; and let you know where you can park. Right now, a fleet of instrumented vehicles are testing these systems on two instrumented test beds – one in Northern Virginia and one in Southwestern Virginia.
High-strength material advancements may lead to new, life-saving steel
There has been great advancements in the development of the high-strength steel and the need for additional enhancements continue to grow. Various industries have a need for structural components that are lighter and stronger, improve energy efficiencies, reduce emissions and pollution increase safety and cost less to produce, particularly in the automotive industry.
New Jersey email vote rule raises storm of protest
New Jersey's decision to allow voters displaced by superstorm Sandy to cast ballots by email has prompted a flood of warnings over security, secrecy and a potential for legal entanglements.
Germany, UK propose e-commerce tax effort
Germany and the United Kingdom on Monday urged the world's biggest economies to form a common front against tax evasion related to internet commerce and other revenue-shifting schemes, and said they received strong support at the meeting of officials from the G-20 nations.
Photo-sharing app Instagram expands to the Web
Instagram, the photo-sharing app that was created for mobile phones, is expanding to the Web.
Google chairman hopes for France tax deal soon
Google chairman Eric Schmidt said Monday he hopes his firm will reach a settlement "by the end of the year" with authorities in France in a billion-dollar dispute over taxes.
Researchers ID 'smishing' vulnerability in Android
(Phys.org)—Mobile security researchers have identified a new vulnerability in popular Android platforms, including Gingerbread, Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean. The vulnerability has been confirmed by Google, and will be addressed in a future Android release.
The flip side of salting winter roads
Swedish scientists have studied models to help road and bridge maintenance engineers work out how much damage salting the roads in winter might cause to steel-reinforced concrete structures.
Apple suit vs. Google over patent rates dismissed
A federal judge in Madison, Wisconsin, on Monday threw out a suit by Apple Inc. claiming that Google subsidiary Motorola Mobility is seeking unreasonably high license fees for the use of patents on wireless technology.
IDC: Apple 3Q share of tablets drops to 50 pct (Update)
Apple's share of the market for tablet computers fell to 50 percent in the third quarter as the iPad faced more competition from Android devices such as Samsung's Galaxy tablets and Google's Nexus 7.
Medicine & Health news
Past evidence of success of flagship parenting programme called into question
(Medical Xpress)—The Triple P positive parenting programme has been hailed as a success around the world and invested in heavily by public bodies in Scotland, the UK and beyond.
Non-emergency angioplasty costs higher in hospitals without back-up surgery
Angioplasty costs were higher in hospitals not equipped with emergency back-up heart surgery, compared to those hospitals that are, according to late-breaking clinical trial research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
Heart attack packs a wallop to wallet of survivors, their employers
The economic impact of a heart attack and other forms of acute coronary syndrome goes beyond the hospital to the home and workplace, according to research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
Overcrowding in prisons negatively affects health
an issue in most prisons in Canada and other parts of the world—negatively impacts the mental and physical health of prisoners, states an article in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).
New tool helps doctors predict heart attack patients at risk for repeat hospitalization
Some heart attack patients end up back in the hospital just weeks after going home. It can happen for a variety of reasons, but doctors haven't had a reliable way to predict which patients will return—until now.
Study: Less-experienced physicians more costly than more-experienced physicians
Physicians with the least experience spend significantly more money treating patients than physicians who have the most experience, according to a new RAND Corporation study.
Therapy for stroke patients improved
Painkilling drugs that make many therapies possible are a blessing for patients. Thanks to modern anesthetics, not only can surgical operations be conducted without causing pain, they are also used for various diagnostic procedures. Anesthetics can be very useful in therapies for stroke patients, as psychologists and physicians of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena and the University Hospital Jena are now able to prove.
Clinical trials for first-ever human hookworm vaccine advance
The Sabin Vaccine Institute (Sabin) today announced the start of Part II of its Phase I clinical trial of the Na-GST-1 vaccine candidate, marking another major milestone in the progress toward developing a human hookworm vaccine. Part II of the trial commenced in Americaninhas, Brazil, following successful vaccinations in Part I of the study, which began in Belo Horizonte, Brazil in late 2011.
Etiologic diagnosis of nonsyndromic genetic hearing loss in adult vs pediatric populations
Genetic testing for a certain mutation in pediatric patients is valuable in determining a cause for unexplained hearing loss, according to a study in the November 2012 issue of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.
ICDs can reduce sudden death in young patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
A multicenter registry has demonstrated that the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) to combat sudden cardiac death in high-risk pediatric patients suffering from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The study is being presented Nov. 5 at the 2012 Scientific Sessions of the American Heart Association (AHA) in Los Angeles.
Air exposure between blinks affects deposits on contact lenses
Modern contact lens materials are prone to drying when exposed to air, which contributes to the buildup of deposits on contact lenses, according to a study – "The Impact of Intermittent Air Exposure on Lipid Deposition", appearing in the November issue of Optometry and Vision Science, official journal of the American Academy of Optometry.
Assessing the risk of heart attack and stroke among Hispanics
A study published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) indicated that many Hispanic/Latino adults living in the United States are at high risk for heart attack or stroke. This risk is highest in men and in older people, born in the US or that have lived in the US more than 10 years, that prefer to speak English, are lower income, or never finished high school.
Imaging facility develops successful radiation dose reduction program
According to an article in the November issue of the Journal of the American College of Radiology, a medical imaging facility in San Diego, Imaging Healthcare Specialists, has implemented a successful radiation dose reduction program, reducing radiation exposure by up to 90 percent in some patients.
HIV and AIDS prevention—Progress and the challenges ahead
At least 2 million people worldwide will be infected with HIV this year, driving the need for better HIV prevention strategies to slow the global pandemic. A better understanding of how to prevent HIV transmission using antiviral drugs led to approval of the first oral pill for HIV prevention, and microbicides delivered as topical gels or via intravaginal rings are in clinical testing and have yielded both positive and negative results. The complex factors involved in the sexual transmission of HIV, the urgent need for new preventive approaches, and the most promising methods currently in development are examined in a special issue of AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses, a peer-reviewed journal published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc, publishers.
New mobile app helps migraine sufferers track and analyze pain
A new iPhone app developed at the University of Michigan lets migraine or facial pain patients easily track and record their pain, which in turn helps the treating clinician develop a pain management plan.
FDA chief will testify at first meningitis hearing
(AP)—House lawmakers investigating a nationwide outbreak of deadly meningitis are asking the head of the Food and Drug Administration to testify at the first congressional hearing on the issue next week.
Healthcare ethics consultants share lessons learned
Healthcare ethics consultants are called upon in the most difficult of times; where do they turn for advice? The American Society For Bioethics and Humanities' Clinical Ethics Consultation Affairs Committee (CECA) is taking a community approach, creating an online forum for feedback and shared experiences to accompany a paper published in the Fall 2012 issue of the Journal of Clinical Ethics.
US judge seeks go-ahead in abortion case
(AP)—A Nevada state judge says he's got authority to order an abortion for a pregnant 32-year-old mentally disabled woman, even against the will of her Catholic adoptive parents.
US suicide rates have increased since economic crisis began
Suicide rates in the US have risen sharply since the economic crisis took hold in 2007, warn the authors of Correspondence published Online First in The Lancet today.
Heart disease map of England highlights growing social inequality in older ages
A study estimating the death rate from heart and circulatory disease in each electoral ward in England has found that despite considerable improvements since the 1980s, the difference between the wealthiest and poorest communities has widened for people over 65.
Cardiac bypass surgery superior to non-surgical procedure for adults with diabetes and heart disease
Adults with diabetes and multi-vessel coronary heart disease who underwent cardiac bypass surgery had better overall heart-related outcomes than those who underwent an artery-opening procedure to improve blood flow to the heart muscle, according to the results from an international study. The research was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health.
New device could allow your heartbeat to power pacemaker
An experimental device converted energy from a beating heart to provide enough electricity to power a pacemaker, in a study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
Bypass surgery more cost effective than stents for diabetics long term
Bypass surgery may be more expensive than drug-coated stents, but in the long run it's more cost effective for patients with diabetes because of superior long-term clinical outcomes, according to late-breaking clinical trial research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012. In a sub-study of the FREEDOM trial, researchers analyzed economic data from 1,900 participants that compared bypass surgery to drug-coated stents to prop open clogged arteries in patients with diabetes who had more than one blocked artery. The study included patients from 16 countries, including 19 percent from the United States. Initially, bypass surgery cost $8,622 more because patients were hospitalized longer and had more complications soon after. But, in the five years after the procedures, follow-up costs were significantly higher in patients treated with drug-coated stents. Even after factoring those costs, bypass surgery still costs about $3,600 more. However, patients who received bypass surgery had a lower risk of dying or having a heart attack . Researchers reported their cost-effectiveness results in terms of cost per "quality-adjusted life-year (QALY)," gained, which considers both the difference in how long patients can be expected to live after bypass surgery or stenting, as well as their quality of life. Bypass surgery was found to have a lifetime cost-effectiveness of $8,132 per QALY gained. That's far below the commonly used benchmark of $50,000/QALY gained for considering a treatment to be cost effective. "Our results demonstrate that bypass surgery is not only beneficial from a clinical standpoint, but also economically attractive from the perspective of the U.S. healthcare system," said Elizabeth A. Magnuson, Sc.D., lead investigator of the study and director of health economics and technology assessment at Saint Luke's Mid-America Heart Institute in Kansas City, Mo. "The economic data are important because of the large number of people with diabetes who are in need of procedures to unblock clogged arteries." The results support the American Heart Association guidelines already in place since the mid-1990s that have recommended bypass surgery for patients with diabetes who have multiple blocked arteries in the heart, she said. "With great concerns about escalating healthcare costs, it's very important when setting policy to understand the benefits gained from additional expenditures over the long run," said Magnuson, who is also professor of medicine at the University of Missouri's Kansas City School of Medicine. "This is especially true in cardiovascular disease where many interventions tend to be very costly up front." Longer follow-up of the patients will be needed to see if the advantages of bypass continue in the years following the initial five years of the study.
Alternative therapy produces intriguing results in some heart patients but many questions remain
Heart attack patients given weekly infusions of chemicals used for chelation therapy had fewer cardiovascular events than those who received identical appearing placebo infusions, according to late-breaking clinical trial results presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012. In the multicenter, double-blind efficacy trial, Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy (TACT), 1,708 heart attack patients were randomized to receive 40 infusions of a 500 mL chelation solution or a placebo infusion, with a second randomization to an oral vitamin and mineral regimen or an oral placebo. The chelation solution contained three grams of the synthetic amino acid ethylene diamine tetra-acetic (EDTA), seven grams of vitamin C, B-vitamins, electrolytes, a local anesthetic and heparin, an anti-clotting drug. The placebo infusion was salt water and a small amount of sugar. Researchers found that patients receiving the chelation solution had fewer serious cardiovascular events than the control group (26 percent vs. 30 percent). Cardiovascular events were defined as death, heart attack, stroke, coronary revascularization and hospitalization for angina. Although participants with diabetes appeared to have a particular benefit from the infusions, the study team cautioned that subgroup analyses can be unreliable and need to be reproduced. Chelation therapy is used to remove metals from the bloodstream. The more common calcium EDTA is approved to treat lead poisoning and other chelation drugs are used to manage iron overload following repeated blood transfusions. The study used the less common disodium EDTA and the infusion regimen contained other components including vitamin C. There has been decades-long debate about whether chelation therapy could be effective as a treatment for patients with atherosclerosis, or fatty deposits in arteries that can cause heart attacks. Until now, there have been no large, long-term clinical trials to determine if these intravenous infusions might work for patients with coronary artery disease. "We have to look carefully at these unexpected results," said Gervasio A. (Tony) Lamas, M.D., lead author of the study and chief of Columbia University Division of Cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Fla. "Although not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating heart disease, chelation therapy has been used for over 50 years and has generally been believed by conventional medical practitioners and cardiologists to be without value. A definitive answer on chelation therapy will take much additional research. The most exciting part of this study is that there may be an unexpected signal of benefit. We need to understand whether the signal is true, or whether it occurred by chance." The patients in the trial were 82 percent male, 94 percent Caucasian and about half were obese. All had experienced a previous heart attack, 83 percent had already had bypass surgery, stent implantation or balloon angioplasty. Thirty-two percent had diabetes, 68 percent had high blood pressure and 73 percent had been prescribed cholesterol-lowering statins. Patients were followed for an average of 55 months. The trial was conducted in 134 sites in the United States and Canada from 2002-2011. "The chelation therapy was an arduous regimen," Lamas said. Each patient received 40 infusions, each lasting at least three hours. The first 30 infusions were one week apart. The last 10 were two weeks to two months apart depending on the patient's schedule. All told, researchers delivered 55,222 infusions. Lamas said there is still much work to do before the treatment would be considered standard. "This is a one-of-a-kind study, so we do not know if the effect will be reproducible," he said. "The level of statistical difference between groups was small." A stringent safety infrastructure made sure patients experienced no undue risk. In addition, the research team worked with a central pharmacy to ensure the safety and purity of the infused products and had in place a computerized system that calculated doses based on the patient's kidney function and the system sent an alert if an infusion was completed faster than usual. "Unless we can show a consistent effect across studies, understand why this treatment might work and establish a similar mechanism to deliver the treatment safely, it will be difficult for chelation to enter the mainstream of other cardiovascular therapies," Lamas said. "The American Heart Association applauds the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine for sponsoring this study and the investigators for performing a trial that was difficult to conduct," said Elliott Antman, M.D., chair of the AHA Scientific Sessions Program Committee, cardiologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Mass. "Intriguing as the results are, they are unexpected and should not be interpreted as an indication to adopt chelation therapy into clinical practice." "More information is needed about which elements of the complex infusion mixture might provide benefit, the marked differences between the observed treatment effect in diabetics versus non-diabetics needs to be understood and we need to be sure that the findings can be replicated. Like many trials, TACT raises more questions that must be answered before we're ready to act on the observations reported today," he said.
Combining exercise and economics in the study of childhood obesity
(Medical Xpress)—The medical costs of obesity for the current cohort of children and adolescents in Maine could reach an estimated $1.2 billion over the next 20 years, according to a new study by a University of Maine economist.
Aspirin a viable treatment for recurrent, serious blood clots, study shows
(Medical Xpress)—Low-dose aspirin is a cheap and effective way to prevent potentially deadly blood clots in the leg or the lungs in patients who have had a previous blood clot, a new study shows.
HPV test for oral cancers may improve patient outcomes, facilitate targeted therapy
(Medical Xpress)—A new test designed to classify tonsil and throat cancers into one of two groups should help deliver the right treatment to the right patients, according to research being presented at the NCRI Cancer Conference in Liverpool next week.
Bowel screening helps to detect early cancers before they become deadly, study finds
(Medical Xpress)—Bowel screening is detecting more cancers when they are less mature and have less aggressive biological characteristics according to new research presented at the NCRI Cancer Conference in Liverpool this week.
First figures help set the standard for gynaecological cancer surgery
(Medical Xpress)—The first UK multicentre figures showing that one in five women having major gynaecological cancer surgery have some sort of complication will help set standards in the NHS, according to research presented at the NCRI Cancer Conference today.
Personalised prostate cancer screening may save thousands from unnecessary treatment
Targeting prostate cancer screening based on a man's age and genes could potentially save thousands of men from unnecessary treatment and save the NHS millions of pounds. The research is presented at the NCRI Cancer Conference in Liverpool today (Monday).
Renal cancer cells target of new bark-derived drug
(Medical Xpress)—Associate Professor Joe W. Ramos, PhD, a cancer biologist at the University of Hawai'i Cancer Center in collaboration with Assistant Professor William Chain, PhD, from the UH Mānoa's Chemistry Department are the first to describe the biological effects that a compound known as englerin A has on renal cancer cells. Englerin A is a natural product found in the bark of phyllanthus engleri, a plant indigenous to east Africa. This compound was previously reported to be a potent and selective inhibitor that prevents the growth of six human renal cancer cell lines while not affecting other cancer cell types. Chain closely examined the chemical structure of englerin A and was able to effectively synthesize the compound in his lab.
Being bullied can cause PTSD in children, study finds
(Medical Xpress)—Problems caused by bullying do not necessarily cease when the abuse stops. Recent research at the Universitiy of Stavanger (UiS) and Bergen's Center for Crisis Psychology in Norway shows that victims may need long-term support.
Grandfathers play a more prominent role in grandchildren's lives, study finds
(Medical Xpress)—Europeans spend much time with their grandchildren. And past 70, the grandfather takes the lead.
Chelation therapy doesn't alter quality of life in heart attack patients
Chelation therapy didn't change the ability to perform daily tasks or impact the emotional wellbeing of patients who previously suffered a heart attack, according to late-breaking clinical trial research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
For some children with ADHD, music has similar positive effects to medication
(Medical Xpress)—The findings are part of a study on the effects of distractors on children with ADHD. A team of researchers, led by FIU Center for Children and Families Director William E. Pelham Jr., set out to examine how distractions – such as music and television – affect children with ADHD.
Mimicry not needed for the recognition of emotions
(Medical Xpress)—'Mimicry', the imitation of the facial expression of the other person, does not play a major role in the ability to recognise the emotion of another person. This is apparent from research conducted by Agneta Fischer, professor of Social Psychology at University of Amsterdam. Fischer's article is the first scientific publication to emerge from the Groot Nationaal Onderzoek.
Researchers investigate the amyloid-beta peptide behind Alzheimer's
Using solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, researchers at Luleå University of Technology in collaboration with Warwick University in the UK for the first time in the world managed to analyse hydrogen bonds in tiny fibrils of Amyloid-beta peptide , which probably causes Alzheimer's disease. Thanks to these new results, there is a successful method avaliable – for analysis of structure of Amyloid-beta peptides in their most toxic form, that is, when they are most dangerous for the brain neurons.
New type of molecular switch could turn up the volume on bowel cancer treatment
(Medical Xpress)—A new type of molecular switch can boost common chemotherapy drugs to destroy bowel cancer cells, according to research presented today (Monday) at the NCRI Cancer Conference in Liverpool.
Probing sleep's drowsy mystery: Researchers stay up nights trying to understand rhythms, effects
It is one of the ironies of sleep research that scientists stay up all night to do it.
Healthdirect study highlights lack of after-hours care
(Medical Xpress)—A study examining the appropriateness of referrals to the Royal Perth Hospital emergency department by the national telephone triage service healthdirect has spotlighted the lack of access to after-hours health care.
Insomnia may raise risk of heart attack, stroke
(HealthDay)—People with insomnia may have double the chances of a heart attack or stroke as opposed to those who sleep well, a study by Taiwanese researchers suggests.
Fainting spells often tied to too many meds at once, study says
(HealthDay)—Taking too many medications at the same time could lead to repeated fainting episodes, a new study reveals.
Saudi Arabia confirms 2nd case of SARS-like virus
(AP)—Saudi Arabia's Health Ministry has confirmed that a second person in the kingdom has contracted a new respiratory virus related to SARS, bringing to three the number of those sickened by it in the Gulf region in recent weeks.
New findings on gene regulation and bone development
The patients have single short fingers (metacarpals) and toes (metatarsals) and can be restricted in growth due to a shortened skeleton. This hereditary disease is called brachydactyly type E (Greek for short fingers). Three years ago Dr. Philipp G. Maass from the research group of Professor Friedrich C. Luft at the Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in Berlin-Buch, has discovered an epigenetic mechanism, which, when dysregulated, causes this condition. Now, together with Dr. Sylvia Bähring (ECRC) he was able to show how this epigenetic regulator functions and influences the development of the skeleton and the extremities. Also, he shed light on a new principle of gene regulation.
US Hispanics at high risk for cardiovascular disease
In a study that involved more than 16,000 Hispanic/Latino men and women living in the United States, the prevalence of major cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors was high and varied markedly across different background groups; and those born in the U.S. were more likely to report a history of coronary heart disease and stroke and to have multiple CVD risk factors, according to a study appearing in November 7 issue of JAMA, a theme issue on cardiovascular disease. The study is being released early online to coincide with the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions.
Lifetime risk of developing cardiovascular disease substantial
Even in men and women with an optimal cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor profile, the lifetime risk estimate for CVD is greater than 30 percent, and is more than 50 percent for men and women overall, according to a study appearing in November 7 issue of JAMA, a theme issue on cardiovascular disease. The study is being released early online to coincide with the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions.
Home blood pressure monitoring may not benefit patients with stroke and hypertension
Home blood pressure monitoring may help patients with hypertension and stroke but did not improve blood pressure control for patients who had normal blood pressure at the start or those with disabilities, according to a randomized controlled trial published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).
Low vitamin D levels associated with longevity
Low levels of vitamin D may be associated with longevity, according to a study involving middle-aged children of people in their 90s published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).
Kids consume more soda and calories when eating out
Children and adolescents consume more calories and soda and have poorer nutrient-intake on days they eat at either fast-food or full-service restaurants, as compared to days they eat meals at—or from—home.
Recreational cocaine use linked to conditions that cause heart attack
People who regularly use cocaine socially have stiffer arteries, higher blood pressure and thicker heart wall muscle than non-users, according to research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
Inhibition of enzyme NOX4 prevents liver fibrosis
Researchers at the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) have led a study published in PLoS One showing that the inhibition of a family member of NADPH oxidase enzyme, NOX4, plays an important role in liver fibrosis.
Risk of fatal coronary heart disease higher among black men
In an examination of the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD) in the U.S. by race and sex, black men and women had twice the rate of fatal CHD compared with white men and women, with this increased risk associated with a greater prevalence of CHD risk factors, according to a study appearing in November 7 issue of JAMA, a theme issue on cardiovascular disease. The study is being released early online to coincide with the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions.
Daily multivitamin use among men does not reduce risk of major cardiovascular events
In a randomized study that included nearly 15,000 male physicians who were middle-aged or older, daily multivitamin use for more than 10 years of treatment and follow-up did not result in a reduction of major cardiovascular events, heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular disease, according to a study appearing in November 7 issue of JAMA, a theme issue on cardiovascular disease. The study is being released early online to coincide with its presentation at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions.
PTSD linked to smaller brain area regulating fear response
Recent combat veterans who are diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder have significantly smaller volume in an area of the brain critical for regulating fear and anxiety responses, according to research led by scientists at Duke University and the Durham VA Medical Center.
Physical exercise improves gait speed, muscle strength, fitness in patients with Parkinson's disease
Physical exercise, including treadmill, stretching and resistance exercises, appears to improve gait speed, muscle strength and fitness for patients with Parkinson disease (PD), according to a report of a randomized clinical trial published Online First by Archives of Neurology, a JAMA Network publication.
Study examines smoking by inpatients during hospital stay
A study of smokers admitted to a large urban teaching hospital in Massachusetts found that 18.4 percent reported smoking during their hospitalization, according to a report published Online First by Archives of Internal Medicine, a JAMA Network publication.
Scientists find Achilles' heel of cancer cells
Several substances inhibiting so-called HDAC enzymes have been studied in trials searching for new anti-cancer drugs in recent years. "Trials have shown that HDAC inhibitors are very effective in arresting growth of cultured cancer cells. But apart from a very rare type of lymphoma, these drugs unfortunately do not clinically affect malignant tumors," says Prof. Dr. Olaf Witt, who heads a research department at DKFZ and is pediatrician at the Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine of Heidelberg University Hospital.
Infusing 'good' cholesterol protein may lower risk of subsequent heart attack
An intravenous infusion of good cholesterol could reduce the risk of a subsequent heart attack, researchers reported at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
Genetically engineered tomatoes decrease plaque build-up in mice
For the first time, genetically engineered tomato plants produced a peptide that mimics the actions of good cholesterol when eaten, researchers reported at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
Daily doses of a new probiotic reduces 'bad' and total cholesterol
Two daily doses of a probiotic lowered key cholesterol-bearing molecules in the blood as well as "bad" and total cholesterol, in a study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012.
Many patients who die while awaiting liver transplant have had donor organs declined
The majority of patients on the liver transplant waitlist who died received offers of high-quality donated livers that were declined prior to their death, according to a new study in Gastroenterology, the official journal of the American Gastroenterological Association. Therefore, efforts other than simply increasing the availability of donated livers or the number of offers are needed to substantially reduce the deaths among those waiting for a transplant.
Therapy with bone marrow-derived stem cells does not improve short-term recovery after heart attack
Administering to patients stem cells derived from their own bone marrow either three or seven days after a heart attack is safe but does not improve heart function six months later, according to a clinical trial supported by the National Institutes of Health.
Women's body talk: Perception stronger than reality?
How women think their friends feel about their bodies influences their own body concerns, according to a new study by Dr. Louise Wasylkiw and Molly Williamson from Mount Alison University in Canada. Their work, which examines the role of friends in young women's body concerns, is published online in Springer's journal Sex Roles.
High fever and evidence of a virus? Caution, it still may be Kawasaki disease
Clinicians should take caution when diagnosing a child who has a high fever and whose tests show evidence of adenovirus, and not assume the virus is responsible for Kawasaki-like symptoms. According to a new study from Nationwide Children's Hospital appearing in Clinical Infectious Diseases, adenovirus detection is not uncommon among children with Kawasaki disease.
Some heart patients may respond differently to anti-platelet drugs
The cause of heart attacks or strokes among some patients treated with anti-platelet drugs may be different than for patients who have undergone surgical procedures to restore blood flow, according to researchers at Duke Medicine.
New research suggests standardized booster seat laws could save lives of children
A new study by researchers in Boston Children's Hospital's Division of Emergency Medicine indicates that a nationwide standard on booster seat laws for children 4 feet 9 inches and shorter, or up to 8 years old, would save lives. The findings were published online Nov. 5, 2012, in the journal Pediatrics.
First gene therapy to go on sale in Europe in 2013
Dutch biotech company uniQure said Monday it would start selling the first human gene therapy to be approved in the West by mid-2013 and predicted an explosion of similar therapies to come.
Children's preexisting symptoms influence their reactions to disaster coverage on TV
After a natural disaster occurs, we often find ourselves glued to the TV, seeking out details about the extent of the damage and efforts at recovery. While research has shown that exposure to this kind of coverage is associated with symptoms of traumatic stress in youths, new research published in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science, suggests that the relationship isn't quite so simple. The new study finds that while the amount of exposure to disaster coverage matters, children's preexisting symptoms of posttraumatic stress also play an important role.
Higher anxiety associated with poorer functioning in children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
UC Davis researchers have found that for children with the genetic disorder known as chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome anxiety—but not intelligence—is linked to poorer adaptive behaviors, such as self-care and communication skills, that affect daily life. The developmental syndrome, which is associated with a constellation of physical, cognitive and psychiatric problems, usually is apparent at birth or early childhood, and leads to lifelong challenges.
Older adults who are frail much more likely to be food insufficient, according to national study
A national study of older Americans shows those who have limited mobility and low physical activity – scientifically categorized as "frail" – are five times more likely to report that they often don't have enough to eat, defined as "food insufficiency," than older adults who were not frail.
Overweight patients hospitalized with pneumonia more apt to survive
Medical researchers at the University of Alberta studied the records of nearly 1000 patients who were admitted to hospital with pneumonia and noted those who were obese were more apt to survive compared to those who were of normal weight.
Studies show community-based diabetes programs are key to lowered costs and improved care
New findings from a 15-year series of studies led by care providers at Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute reveal that culturally tailored community-created programs are effective at reducing health-related costs and delivering higher quality care.
Healthy living adds 14 years to your life
If you have optimal heart health in middle age, you may live up to 14 years longer, free of cardiovascular disease, than your peers who have two or more cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, according to a new Northwestern Medicine study.
Controlling vascular disease may be key to reducing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease
Over the last 15 years, researchers have found a significant association between vascular diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes type 2, hyperlipidemia, and heart disease and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. In a special issue of the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, leading experts provide a comprehensive overview of the pathological, biochemical, and physiological processes that contribute to Alzheimer's disease risk and ways that may delay or reverse these age-related abnormalities.
Actigraphy is poor measure of eczema activity
(HealthDay)—The use of actigraphy to record movement as an objective surrogate for eczema activity is of limited use, according to a study published in the November issue of the British Journal of Dermatology.
Third MMR vaccine dose can curtail mumps outbreak
(HealthDay)—Administering a third dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine reduced the village-wide attack rate by about 75 percent in a community experiencing a large mumps outbreak despite a high rate of previous MMR vaccination, according to research published online Nov. 5 in Pediatrics.
Xarelto's approval expanded
(HealthDay)—Approval of the anti-clotting drug Xarelto (rivaroxaban) has been expanded by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to include treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
New drug may help those who can't take statins
(HealthDay)—An experimental drug may help patients who can't tolerate statins lower their cholesterol, a new Australian study suggests.
Fewer meals eaten in front of television after intervention
(HealthDay)—A brief primary care intervention for preschool-aged children and their parents reduces the number of meals eaten in front of the television but does not reduce overall screen time or body mass index (BMI), according to research published online Nov. 5 in Pediatrics.
Fish oil won't prevent irregular heartbeat after cardiac surgery, study says
(HealthDay)—A hoped-for effect of fish oil supplements in preventing an irregular heartbeat that often follows heart surgery did not materialize in a major new trial.
US meningitis death toll rises to 30, officials say
The death toll from a meningitis outbreak linked to tainted drugs rose to 30 as the number of cases climbed to a whopping 419, US health officials said Monday.
Tumor-causing cells are squishier, study finds
(Medical Xpress)—A new tool developed by scientists at The Methodist Hospital separates tumor-causing cancer cells from more benign cells by subjecting the cells to a microscopic game of Plinko—except only the squishiest cells make it through.
First gene therapy study in human salivary gland shows promise
Gene therapy can be performed safely in the human salivary gland, according to scientists at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), part of the National Institutes of Health.
Prenatal testosterone levels influence later response to reward
New findings led by Dr. Michael Lombardo, Prof. Simon Baron-Cohen and colleagues at the University of Cambridge indicate that testosterone levels early in fetal development influence later sensitivity of brain regions related to reward processing and affect an individual's susceptibility to engage in behavior, that in extremes, are related to several neuropsychiatric conditions that asymmetrically affect one sex more than the other.
New DNA vaccine technology poised to deliver safe and cost-effective disease protection
New and increasingly sophisticated vaccines are taking aim at a broad range of disease-causing pathogens, targeting them with greater effectiveness at lower cost and with improved measures to ensure safety.
The knowing nose: Chemosignals communicate human emotions
(Medical Xpress)—Many animal species transmit information via chemical signals, but the extent to which these chemosignals play a role in human communication is unclear. In a new study published in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science, researcher Gün Semin and colleagues from Utrecht University in the Netherlands investigate whether we humans might actually be able to communicate our emotional states to each other through chemical signals.
Researchers identify unexpected bottleneck in the spread of herpes simplex virus
New research suggests that just one or two individual herpes virus particles attack a skin cell in the first stage of an outbreak, resulting in a bottleneck in which the infection may be vulnerable to medical treatment.
Superbug MRSA identified in US wastewater treatment plants
A team led by researchers at the University of Maryland School of Public Health has found that the "superbug" methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is prevalent at several U.S. wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). MRSA is well known for causing difficult-to-treat and potentially fatal bacterial infections in hospital patients, but since the late 1990s it has also been infecting otherwise healthy people in community settings.
Learning a new sense: Scientists observe as humans learn to sense like a rat, with 'whiskers'
A Weizmann Institute experiment in which volunteers learned to sense objects' locations using just "rat whiskers" may help improve aids for the blind.
Research discovers how brain activity changes when anesthesia induces unconsciousness
Investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have identified for the first time a pattern of brain activity that appears to signal exactly when patients lose consciousness under general anesthesia. Although their study only involved use of one anesthetic drug, propofol, the researchers believe that their findings will apply to other forms of general anesthesia and could lead to better ways of monitoring anesthetized patients.
Biology news
Scientists identify insect-repelling compounds in Jatropha
A tip about a folk remedy plant used in India and Africa to ward off bugs has led to the discovery of insect-repelling compounds.
Activists launch annual whale campaign in Australia
Anti-whaling activists began their annual campaign against Japanese whalers Monday with the Sea Shepherd's flagship, the Steve Irwin, leaving its Melbourne dock to pursue the harpoonists.
Genetically modified food debate muted in generally accepting science community
Food has been genetically modified on the farm for centuries. But now genes are swapped in labs, and the shift is fueling major changes in agriculture - and a political backlash.
Scientist investigates human links to endangered Chinese 'snub-nosed' monkeys
(Phys.org)—A Swiss primatologist who arrived at The University of Western Australia in April to work in the School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology probably won't mind too much if his students start 'monkeying around' occasionally in class.
Study reports faster, more economical method for detecting bioterror threats
Texas Biomedical Research Institute scientists in San Antonio have developed a faster, less expensive route to screen suitable tests for bioterror threats and accelerate the application of countermeasures.
Researchers find feral cat numbers not reduced when dingo numbers increase in outback
(Phys.org)—Researchers working to increase the number of bridled nailtail wallabies in Queensland Australia, have discovered that stopping the practice of culling dingoes in the area did not change the number of feral cats as hoped, the team reports in their paper published in Wildlife Research. Feral cats are known to kill and eat juvenile wallabies.
World's rarest whale seen for the first time
A whale that is almost unknown to science has been seen for the first time after two individuals—a mother and her male calf—were stranded and died on a New Zealand beach. A report in the November 6th issue of Current Biology, a Cell Press publication, offers the first complete description of the spade-toothed beaked whale (Mesoplodon traversii), a species previously known only from a few bones.
Warming temperatures cause aquatic animals to shrink the most
Warmer temperatures cause greater reduction in the adult sizes of aquatic animals than in land-dwellers in a new study by scientists from Queen Mary, University of London and the University of Liverpool.
Cockatoo 'can make its own tools' (w/ Video)
A cockatoo from a species not known to use tools in the wild has been observed spontaneously making and using tools for reaching food and other objects.
Computers 'taught' to ID regulating gene sequences
Johns Hopkins researchers have succeeded in teaching computers how to identify commonalities in DNA sequences known to regulate gene activity, and to then use those commonalities to predict other regulatory regions throughout the genome. The tool is expected to help scientists better understand disease risk and cell development.
2001-2002 drought helped propel mountain pine beetle epidemic, study finds
A new University of Colorado Boulder study shows for the first time that episodes of reduced precipitation in the southern Rocky Mountains, especially during the 2001-02 drought, greatly accelerated development of the mountain pine beetle epidemic.
Researchers discover how mole rat wards off cancer
Biologists at the University of Rochester have determined how blind mole rats fight off cancer—and the mechanism differs from what they discovered three years ago in another long-lived and cancer-resistant mole rat species, the naked mole rat.
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