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Science News for December 13, 2007


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.

Fish farms drive wild salmon populations toward extinction

A study reveals that fish farms are causing a severe decline in wild salmon populations by infecting them with sea lice, which can lead to a 99% collapse of the population within four years. This has serious implications for the entire ecosystem, as salmon play a crucial role in supporting various industries and wildlife.

SourceSeaWeb·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

Evolution with a restricted number of genes

Researchers have shed new light on the role of RNA polymerase II in gene expression, revealing a complex mechanism that allows for efficient use of existing genes. The study found that phosphorylation of serine 7 at the carboxyterminal domain is essential for processing and maturation of specific gene products.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

Losses of long-established genes contribute to human evolution

Researchers found 26 losses of long-established genes in the human lineage, including 16 previously unknown cases. The study identified a gene for acyltransferase-3 that was lost in humans but still functional in chimpanzees and possibly gorillas.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 13, 2007

Reversible data transfers from light to sound

A team of researchers at Duke University has successfully transferred encoded information from a laser beam to sound waves and back again, opening the door for ultra-fast optical communications networks. The new method uses stimulated Brillouin scattering to create acoustic vibrations that can retain data for brief intervals.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MicroRNA regulates cancer stem cells

Researchers discovered a genetic switch that regulates critical properties of cancer stem cells using microRNAs. Activating this switch, let-7, can push cancer stem cells to differentiate and lose their tumorigenic abilities, offering a novel approach to targeting these cells with therapeutic RNAs.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateDec 13, 2007

Predicting post-traumatic stress disorders in deployed veterans

A Canadian study found that one-third of veterans who were deployed more than once experienced probable clinical depression, while 30% of those deployed only once were affected. The research also revealed that younger, single soldiers and those with multiple deployments were more likely to have PTSD and severe symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·DateDec 13, 2007

New research alters concept of how circadian clock functions

Scientists at University of Cambridge identified a signalling molecule governing plant circadian clock response to environmental changes. This discovery alters the current understanding of the circadian clock and may have significant implications for agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

Penn researchers shine the light of venus to learn how the herpes virus invades cells

University of Pennsylvania researchers have uncovered the key step in how herpes simplex virus, HSV-1, invades healthy cells using cooperating proteins on its outer coat. The study used biomolecular complementation with a fluorescent protein called Venus to demonstrate the effectiveness of monitoring protein interactions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2007
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Treatment with SN reduces injury to the brain following stroke

Researchers found that Secretoneurin (SN) increases production in brain cells following ischemia, improving survival of primary brain cell cultures. In animal models, SN treatment reduced cerebral tissue death, improved motor performance, and enhanced brain function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 13, 2007

Experiments reveal unexpected activity of fuel cell catalysts

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory discovered that gold-cerium oxide and gold-titanium oxide nanocatalysts exhibit high activity in the water-gas shift reaction. The catalysts' oxides break apart water molecules, enabling the elimination of carbon monoxide and improving fuel cell efficiency.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

Early treatment stops epilepsy in its tracks

Researchers at Yale University have shown that early treatment of epilepsy-prone rats with ethosuximide can suppress seizures and reduce their frequency even after treatment is stopped. This breakthrough could lead to preventing epilepsy in genetically susceptible people.

SourceYale University·JournalEpilepsia·DateDec 13, 2007

Green tea may protect brain cells against Parkinson's disease

Researchers found that green tea polyphenols protect dopamine neurons and inhibit the ROS-NO pathway, which contributes to cell death in Parkinson's disease. The study suggests green tea polyphenols may be developed into a safe and easily administrable drug for Parkinson's disease treatment.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 13, 2007

Semen ingredient 'drastically' enhances HIV infection

A study published in Cell Press reveals that a component of human semen can enhance the ability of HIV to cause infection. The ingredient, called Semen-derived Enhancer of Virus Infection (SEVI), forms amyloid fibrils that capture and facilitate the entry of HIV into target cells.

SourceCell Press·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

Molecular 'trip switch' shuts down inflammatory response

Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a molecular pathway that regulates immune inflammation, known as the TAM receptor tyrosine kinase. The study found that activating this pathway can help control chronic autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting an out-of-control inflammatory response.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 13, 2007

Luftman's research published in MIS Quarterly Executive

Dr. Jerry Luftman's research published in MIS Quarterly Executive explores the persistent problem of aligning IT and business, proposing a five-level maturity model to measure six key components. The study found that federated IT structures and CIO reporting directly to top executives are associated with higher alignment maturity.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalMIS Quarterly Executive·DateDec 13, 2007

Adapting to pregnancy played key role in human evolution, study shows

A study at the University of Texas at Austin found that human spines evolved differently in males and females due to back pressure from pregnancy. The adaptation, which first appeared at least two million years ago, includes larger joints and a more angled vertebrae curve in females.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2007
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Biocapture surfaces produced for study of brain chemistry

The team created a method for attaching small molecules to surfaces, capturing large biomolecules and identifying specific interactions. The technique is suitable for studying neurotransmission in the living brain and has potential applications in understanding neurological diseases.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 13, 2007

WUSTL researchers spearhead key genome initiative

The complete genome of Physcomitrella patens has been sequenced, providing insights into the conquest of land by plants. The research reveals unique gene products and metabolic pathways that enable mosses to protect themselves against stresses associated with living on land.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

Wild chimpanzees appear not to regularly experience menopause

A study of wild chimpanzees found they do not experience menopause, unlike humans and most other primates. In contrast to human females with several decades of post-reproductive life, chimpanzee reproductive declines occur in tandem with overall mortality.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

Moss is a super model for feeding the hungry

Scientists have sequenced the genome of moss Physcomitrella patens, which can survive severe dehydration and regrow when watered. The study aims to identify genes controlling these survival tactics and adapt crops for drought-stricken areas.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

DOE JGI Community Sequencing Program delivers first moss genome

The DOE JGI Community Sequencing Program has successfully sequenced the genome of Physcomitrella patens, a nonvascular land plant. The genome will facilitate studies of plant cell wall synthesis, photosynthesis, and drought tolerance, with potential applications in biofuels and biomass production.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

Immune system may target some brain synapses, Stanford researchers find

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered that the immune system plays a role in sculpting away unwanted synapses in the developing brain. The finding could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCell·DateDec 13, 2007
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New UIC center to study end-of-life transition

The UIC Center for End-of-Life Transition Research will conduct four studies on topics such as advanced heart failure, oral health in terminally ill cancer patients, and suicide prevention among Asian American college students. The center aims to advance the science of end-of-life care for people of all ages.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateDec 13, 2007

Putting risk in perspective: Do people make better decisions when they understand average risk?

A new survey from Michigan Medicine suggests that when women are told their risk of breast cancer is above average, they're more likely to take a hypothetical pill and overestimate its benefits. The study highlights the importance of considering individual risk information when making medical decisions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateDec 13, 2007

NASA awards $9.3M to Dartmouth researcher for radiation study using balloons

Dartmouth College researcher Robyn Millan will lead a NASA project launching over 40 high-altitude balloons from Antarctica to study the Earth's Van Allen Belts. The balloons will carry instrumentation to better understand how the belts release radiation into near-Earth space, which can be hazardous to astronauts and satellites.

SourceDartmouth College·DateDec 13, 2007

Effective new treatment for schizophrenia

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that paliperidone extended-release tablets were effective in treating schizophrenia symptoms, with improvements seen in social functioning. The treatment's long half life and extended release formulation offer practical advantages over existing treatments.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

Drug study for brain cancer shows promising results

A clinical study at Henry Ford Hospital found that Avastin significantly extended the survival of patients with glioblastoma multiforme, with over half living without disease progression for six months. The use of Avastin also showed no new adverse effects.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateDec 13, 2007

Air quality forecasts see future in space

Researchers are working on operational global forecasts of air pollution, which could aid in improving air quality and addressing climate change. NASA satellites are providing crucial data to support these efforts, helping to evaluate the effectiveness of environmental regulations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 13, 2007

JCI table of contents: Dec. 13, 2007

A new study reveals secretoneurin's neuroprotective role in a rat model of stroke. SN treatment improved survival of primary brain cell cultures and reduced cerebral tissue death in rats with ischemia-induced stroke.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

Rong Li Lab reports protein interactions of MAP kinase signaling pathway

The Rong Li Lab has achieved a quantitative measurement of protein-protein interactions in the MAP kinase cascade, a critical pathway for growth and differentiation decisions in eukaryotic cells. This discovery was made possible by advanced biophysical techniques applied to live yeast cells.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2007

Promising results for pilot trial of wearable hemodialysis device

A wearable haemodialysis device has delivered promising results in a pilot trial, with patients reporting improved quality of life and no adverse cardiovascular changes. The device has the potential to become a practical means of delivering extended and more frequent dialysis to patients with end-stage kidney failure.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 13, 2007

Message to the elderly: It's never too late to prevent illness

A NewYork-Presbyterian study found that adults over 65 can improve their health through simple lifestyle changes, reducing risk for diseases such as obesity and osteoporosis. Adhering to a low-calorie diet and regular exercise can help stave off the diseases of aging.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

New study suggests why vaccines directed against cancer, HIV don't work

Researchers from University of Missouri and Imperial College London found that chemical markers on cancer and HIV-infected cells can fool the immune system, making it ineffective against vaccines. The study suggests that vaccines may be unlikely to work due to these shared sequences.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 13, 2007

As waters clear, scientists seek to end a muddy debate

Researchers have found that muds can accumulate even when currents move swiftly, contradicting long-held assumptions. This discovery has significant implications for harbor and canal engineering, oil reservoir management, and fossil fuel prospecting.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

Tiny dust particles from Asian deserts common over western United States

A UW researcher found that dust from the Gobi and Taklimakan deserts in China and Mongolia is routinely present in the air over the western United States during spring months. Particles of 2.5 microns or less, which can be inhaled deeply into the lungs, increase in concentration in years with large Asian dust storms.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateDec 13, 2007
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.

Return to Europa: A closer look is possible

New research brings scientists closer to exploring Jupiter's moon Europa, discovering potential for life in its ice-covered ocean. Refined methods and data analysis reveal a habitable environment, with improved measurements potentially detecting compounds indicative of life.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateDec 13, 2007

Immediate action needed to save corals from climate change

Coral reefs are facing extinction due to rising ocean temperatures and acidification, threatening marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions. Scientists call for urgent action to reduce carbon emissions and local pressures such as overfishing and pollution to save these vital ecosystems.

SourceSeaWeb·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007

It's official: The carbon crisis is lethal for coral reefs

Coral reefs, crucial for millions of livelihoods worldwide, are at risk due to rapid climate change and ocean acidification. The International Coral Reef Targeted Research Program warns that most coral reefs will not survive the forecasted increases in global temperatures and CO2 emissions unless drastic action is taken.

SourceCoral Reef Targeted Research Program·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2007