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Science News for September 13, 2007


Leaderless movement proves illusive

A new study by University of Alberta researcher Paul Joosse cautions against the ideological motivations behind 'ecoterrorism' in North America. The study suggests that individuals committing arson attacks may be acting for personal reasons, rather than environmental concerns, due to the lack of leaders in the Earth Liberation Front.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalTerrorism and Political Violence·DateSep 13, 2007

American Society for Microbiology honors Michael Bruce Zwick

Dr. Michael Bruce Zwick is honored by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) for his groundbreaking work in developing an HIV vaccine. He has published numerous papers and received several prestigious awards, including the ICAAC Young Investigator Awards.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2007
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.

Zebrafish to shed light on human mitochondrial diseases

Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered zebrafish as an ideal model for studying COX deficiencies, which can lead to fatal metabolic disorders. The use of zebrafish allows scientists to visualize early stages of mitochondrial impairments and identify specific targets for potential drug therapies.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 13, 2007

MIT IDs binocular vision gene

Researchers from the Picower Institute at MIT have identified the gene Ten_m3 as crucial for creating matched projections from both eyes in the brain. In mice with this gene knocked out, visual deficits persisted even when one eye was covered, but blocking the output of one eye restored vision.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 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.

Very young children can step into the minds of storybook characters

Researchers found that preschoolers can perform impressive perspective-taking feats by tracking a character's mental perspective in narrative. Five-year-olds successfully pointed to the cow in the thought-about location, while three-year-olds only looked at the physical location.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateSep 13, 2007

Federal research plan to determine nanotech risks fails to deliver

The federal government's new report on prioritizing environmental, health, and safety (EHS) research needs for engineered nanoscale materials lacks important details like budget allocations and implementation timelines. The lack of a coordinated risk research strategy threatens the safe development and use of nanotechnology products.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·DateSep 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.

Chronic fatigue syndrome linked to stomach virus

Chronic fatigue syndrome is linked to a stomach virus, with over 80% of infected patients testing positive for enteroviral particles. Research suggests that initial infections can occur years earlier, highlighting the long-term impact of viral infections on the condition.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Pathology·DateSep 13, 2007

American Society for Microbiology honors Lucas R. Hoffman

Lucas R. Hoffman receives the ICAAC Young Investigator Award from the American Society for Microbiology for his groundbreaking research on biofilm formation and antibiotic interactions. His work has led to significant advancements in the care of patients with cystic fibrosis.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2007

Marrying natural and social sciences for Mother Earth's sake

Researchers synthesized natural and social sciences to understand coupled human and natural systems, revealing complexities in environmental and socioeconomic patterns. The study emphasizes the need for specialization easing up to develop feasible policies for effective solutions to complex problems.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2007
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Computer models help raise the bar for sporting achievement

Researchers at Loughborough University are developing advanced computer models to simulate sports equipment behavior, enabling more accurate designs and better performance. The models will aid in reducing prototype manufacturing costs and increasing participation in sports, leading to improved health benefits.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateSep 13, 2007

Potential new way of treating inflammatory diseases identified

Researchers found that platelets' GPIIb/IIIa receptors stimulate neutrophils to produce TNF, a key inflammatory compound. This discovery may lead to the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs targeting these receptors.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 13, 2007

What makes a fungus virulent? It's lipase

Gene deletion study shows Candida parapsilosis growth and virulence reduced without lipase activity, suggesting enzyme's key role in pathogenicity for immunocompromised individuals and premature infants

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

American Society for Microbiology honors Thomas E. Wellems

Dr. Thomas E. Wellems is being honored by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) for his groundbreaking research on malaria treatment and resistance to chloroquine. His work has significantly impacted malaria treatment, leading to a decrease in death rates in Africa and Asia.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2007

JCI table of contents: September 13, 2007

Researchers have identified potential targets for ALS treatment by studying SOD1 gene mutations. Additionally, a new study on Candida parapsilosis has revealed that lipase is an essential virulence factor. Further research suggests that the timing of treatment with immune-modifying drugs can significantly impact viral infection outcomes.

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

A new kind of rat model

Researchers at UWM are collaborating with PhysioGenix Inc. to investigate a novel animal model for diseases like depression and ADHD. The consomic rats, developed by MCW, have already shown promise in studying cardiovascular disease and hypertension.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·DateSep 13, 2007

Leading-edge body sensor could help produce sporting champions

A revolutionary unobtrusive sensor is being developed to collect wide-ranging data on human posture, stride length, acceleration, and response to shock waves. The sensor can transmit this data in real-time for instant coaching advice, potentially delivering better sporting performance.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateSep 13, 2007
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Speedier skis on course for World Cup glory

A new self-waxing device has been developed to improve ski performance, allowing skiers to travel 1-2% quicker than conventional skis. The system, which includes a biodegradable lubricant, is being tested with major manufacturers and could play a key role in deciding World Cup outcomes.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateSep 13, 2007

American Society for Microbiology honors Joanna Kubler-Kielb

Joanna Kubler-Kielb is honored with the American Society for Microbiology ICAAC Young Investigator Award for her research excellence in microbiology and infectious diseases, including work on anthrax and Lyme disease. Her research has led to significant contributions toward developing new vaccines against these diseases.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2007

Metabolic syndrome heightens risk for development of uric-acid kidney stones

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that patients with metabolic syndrome have highly acidic urine, which increases the risk of developing uric-acid kidney stones. This association was independent of age and renal function, suggesting a link between metabolic syndrome components and increased acidity in urine.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 13, 2007

Understanding the Noxious cause of Lou Gehrig's disease

Scientists found that inhibiting Nox1 and Nox2 genes can slow down ALS progression in mice, leading to improved survival rates. The study suggests developing drugs targeting the Nox pathway could be beneficial for individuals with ALS.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 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.

Most comprehensive study of mercury in dental fillings begins

A comprehensive study is underway to examine the impact of prenatal exposure to mercury from dental fillings on neurological development. The researchers will collect hair samples from children in the Seychelles who were exposed to methyl mercury through their mothers' seafood consumption and dental work.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateSep 13, 2007

Quebec Government funds study of Dawson shooting impact

A $460,000 grant will be used to research the impact of the Dawson College shooting on mental health services and school safety. The study aims to identify effective treatment gaps and develop a standard response protocol for similar situations.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·DateSep 13, 2007

Bright tumors, dim prospects

Researchers found that cervical tumors with high glucose uptake (SUV) on PET scans had higher recurrence rates, persistent disease, and lower survival rates. The study suggests that SUV is a more sensitive indicator of tumor aggressiveness than standard staging protocols.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCancer·DateSep 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.

Good fences make good neighbors

Researchers develop mathematical model to predict ethnic conflict based on global pattern formation, finding poorly defined boundaries and heterogeneous areas prone to violence. The study suggests that clear borders can prevent ethnic tension, echoing Robert Frost's poem 'good fences make good neighbors',

SourceBrandeis University·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2007

The dating game

The discovery of geologic time revolutionized our understanding of the world, allowing scientists to date rocks and calculate the age of the Earth. This breakthrough, achieved by Arthur Holmes in the early 20th century, had a profound impact on fields like plate tectonics and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateSep 13, 2007

NASA keeps eye on ozone layer amid Montreal Protocol's success

The Montreal Protocol has been a resounding success, with chlorine compound levels leveling off and beginning to decline. Researchers study climate change and the timing of ozone recovery through space-based instruments and computer models, aiming to ensure CFC emissions fall below levels that produce an ozone hole.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 13, 2007

How dirty is your money?

Researchers from the University of Bristol and Mass Spec Analytical Ltd found that geographical location has no influence on the distribution of drug contamination on bank notes. The study analyzed £10 and £20 notes from areas across the UK, including urban and rural regions, and found that contamination levels were unrelated to location.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalForensic Science International·DateSep 13, 2007

Ancient whale fall from California's Año Nuevo Island one of youngest, most complete known

A fossilized whale skeleton found on California's Año Nuevo Island is the youngest and most complete known example of a whale fall in North America. The 11- to 15-million-year-old skeleton was home to multiple mollusks, challenging previous theories that large whales were necessary for these deep-sea communities to thrive.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 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.

Climate -- no smoking gun for Neanderthals

A new study by an international team of researchers provides a breakthrough approach to understanding the role of climate in the Neanderthal extinction. The findings suggest that there was no single climatic event that caused the extinction, but rather indirect effects on competition with other human groups.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateSep 13, 2007

Oldest stars may shed light on dark matter, researchers report in Science

The universe's earliest stars, formed in warm dark matter strings, could help clarify whether the universe is made of warm or cold dark matter. These ancient stars would have formed in long filaments and could provide new insights into dark matter's energy and its impact on galaxy formation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2007
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Smaller breast reduction surgeries provide health benefits and should be reimbursed

A new study from NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center found that breast reductions of less than 500 grams per breast greatly eased women's back, neck, and shoulder pain. The procedures also improved their quality of life by allowing them to exercise more and engage in a wider variety of activities.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateSep 13, 2007

Fat mum hastens path to childhood obesity

Children who had acquired high percentage body fat by age 3–1/2 were more likely to be obese at age 7. Rapid growth spurts, TV viewing time, and physical inactivity also contributed to obesity risk.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateSep 13, 2007

Salmon garnish points the way to green electronics

Professor Andrew Steckl's innovative approach incorporates DNA from salmon sperm into light-emitting diodes, enhancing performance while reducing environmental impact. The technique involves trapping electrons longer, resulting in brighter colors and improved light efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 13, 2007
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Mother's milk a gift that keeps on giving

A new review of medical literature reveals that breastfeeding provides numerous benefits, including lower risk of diabetes, lymphoma, and leukemia. However, the authors note that risks associated with formula feeding include growth failure and vitamin deficiencies, but these can be prevented or minimized with preventive measures.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalAdvances in Pediatrics·DateSep 13, 2007

UK's future in space -- a new beginning?

The UK Space Exploration Working Group recommends involvement in both human and robotic elements of space exploration to play a full role in the century's unique opportunities. The report stresses the need for a new vision, suggesting preparatory human space flight activities and maintaining UK's significant role in planetary science.

SourceScience and Technology Facilities Council·DateSep 13, 2007

Peat and forests save permafrost from melting

Research by McMaster University suggests peat and vegetation can slow permafrost melting, preserving northern regions. However, local disturbances like fires can accelerate thaw.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 13, 2007

Progress in understanding the malarial parasite

Researchers constructed a chaperone interaction network for the malarial parasite, highlighting new proteins that can potentially be used in the fight against malaria. The study provides insights into the functions of molecular chaperones and their role in chromatin remodeling, protein trafficking, and cytoadherence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 13, 2007

U. Iowa team identifies genes that improve survival in mice with ALS

A U. Iowa team discovered two cell-signaling proteins, Nox1 and Nox2, play a significant role in disease progression of inherited ALS, significantly increasing lifespan when deleted from mice. Nox2 deletion nearly doubles lifespan and survival index, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for ALS treatment.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 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.

Study suggests brain tumors need treatment with multiple 'targeted' drugs

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have found that many brain tumors and solid tumors require simultaneous inhibition of multiple cell-growth switches to be effective. Combining three or more targeted drugs may provide a cure for these cancers, as individual drugs often yield disappointing results.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2007

American Society for Microbiology honors Hung Ton-That

Dr. Hung Ton-That has been recognized for his research excellence in microbiology and infectious disease, with a focus on cell wall sorting structure and gram-positive bacteria surface structures. He is being honored for his contributions to the study of bacterial pathogenesis.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2007

Nonstick chewing gum to become a reality

Revolymer's Clean Gum boasts great taste, easy removal, and potential for environmental degradation. The technology uses an amphiphilic polymer to alter interfacial properties, making it less adhesive to common surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateSep 13, 2007

Less than 3 percent of UK 11-year-olds take enough exercise

Research reveals that UK 11-year-olds are not physically active enough, with less than 3% meeting recommended daily exercise levels. The study, which monitored over 5,500 children in the South West of England, found that boys were more active than girls and that sustained activity was crucial for promoting cardiorespiratory fitness.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateSep 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.

Nuclear physicists examine oxygen's limits

Researchers at Michigan State University have made a unique measurement of an exotic oxygen nucleus, confirming a theoretical model predicting dramatic changes in structure as oxygen nuclei approach their limits. The experiment used new detection tools, making it possible to explore isotopes near the extreme edges of existence.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 13, 2007

Advanced technologies aim to transform the coaching of top athletes

The SESAME project is developing a unique, integrated computer system that substantially increases data available to coaches during training sessions. This will enable coaches to provide near-instantaneous feedback on athlete technique, improving performance and reducing injury risk.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateSep 13, 2007