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Science News for August 20, 2008


Creating unconventional metals

Researchers at University College London have combined silicon, iron, and manganese to create a new material with unique properties. The discovery demonstrates a simple recipe for reaching this 'quantum halfway house' and suggests new mechanisms for controlling electrical currents and magnetism in semiconductor devices.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

'Dream team' to tackle profound questions in computer science

Researchers at Princeton University will study 'intractability' with a $10 million NSF grant, aiming to understand the limits of computer power. The center will address problems in cryptography and quantum computing, potentially leading to breakthroughs in computer security.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·DateAug 20, 2008

Duke chemists synthesize promising anti-cancer product

Researchers at Duke University have synthesized largazole, a marine algae extract with potential as an anti-cancer agent. The team's efficient synthetic route enables the production of gram-sized quantities, paving the way for further study and potential treatment of various cancers.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2008

Polymer electric storage, flexible and adaptable

Researchers developed ferroelectric polymer-based capacitors that deliver power more rapidly and are much lighter than conventional batteries. By tuning the dielectric property and energy density, they created materials with high performance and flexibility.

SourcePenn State·DateAug 20, 2008
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.

That tastes -- sweet? Sour? No, it's definitely calcium!

Researchers have identified two receptors on the tongue that detect the taste of calcium, which is crucial for building strong bones. This discovery could lead to the development of foods and drinks that are more palatable and easier to consume.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2008

China sees spike in rabies cases

A new study published in BMC Infectious Diseases reveals a significant increase in human rabies cases in China since the new millennium. The researchers found that the number of cases jumped dramatically from 159 to 3,279 between 1990 and 2006, with most patients contracting the disease after being bitten by dogs.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Infectious Diseases·DateAug 20, 2008

PTC124 shows activity in cystic fibrosis; Phase 2 proof-of-concept data published in Lancet

A Phase 2 trial of PTC124 demonstrated statistically significant improvements in CFTR-mediated chloride transport and lung function in patients with nonsense-mutation CF. The study showed that PTC124 induced chloride transport responses across various patient genotypes, offering a potential new treatment paradigm for this genetic disease.

SourcePure Communications Inc.·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 20, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New insights into the regulation of PTEN tumor suppression function

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered that PTEN tumor suppression is maintained through a nuclear localization pathway. The study found that the loss of PML and HAUSP can force PTEN out of the nucleus, preventing its ability to act as a tumor suppressor.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008

Synthetic moleculues could add spice to fight against cancer

A new study suggests that processing red tomatoes with heat and fat can increase the absorption of lycopene, a naturally occurring pigment linked to cancer prevention. The researchers found that the bent molecular form of lycopene is more easily absorbed into the bloodstream than its linear form.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 20, 2008

September 2008 Biology of Reproduction highlights

Researchers used proteomics to compare the nuclear proteome of immature and mature gonadotrophic cells, revealing novel proteins that regulate gonadotropin gene transcription and RNA splicing. Urban air pollution was found to affect placental development, leading to reduced fetal growth and pregnancy complications.

SourceSociety for the Study of Reproduction·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateAug 20, 2008
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.

Brain surgery is getting easier on patients

Dr. Edward Duckworth is using less-invasive techniques to remove tumors, repair life-threatening aneurysms, and reduce seizures in epilepsy patients. The procedure involves reaching the brain through smaller openings, resulting in decreased pain and shorter hospital stays.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNeurosurgery·DateAug 20, 2008

New research suggests diabetes transmitted from parents to children

A new study found that exposing fetal mice to high saturated fats can cause them and their offspring to develop type 2 diabetes. This unusual form of inheritance, known as metabolic programming, has implications for human health, particularly for children born to malnourished mothers.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateAug 20, 2008

Joslin study identifies protein that produces 'good' fat

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center identified a protein called BMP-7 that induces the formation and function of brown fat cells. This discovery may lead to new treatments or prevention strategies for obesity and its associated diseases.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008

New test to diagnose osteoarthritis early

A new medical imaging technology could provide a long-awaited test for early diagnosis of osteoarthritis, allowing doctors to prevent or reduce permanent damage. The method uses modified MRI to determine the concentration of glycosaminoglycan, a biomarker for OA and cartilage disorders.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New 'nano-positioners' may have atomic-scale precision

Researchers at Purdue University developed a new monolithic comb drive device that can precisely move or sense movement at an atomic scale. The device has twice the dexterity of similar devices and could improve probe-based sensors for detecting viruses and biological molecules.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 20, 2008

A better way to make hydrogen from biofuels

Researchers at Ohio State University have created a catalyst that converts ethanol into hydrogen with a 90% yield, using inexpensive ingredients. The new catalyst is less expensive than others being developed worldwide, making it more practical for widespread use in hydrogen-powered cars.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 20, 2008

Addiction treatment proves successful in animal weight loss study

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory found that vigabatrin induced satiety in obese animals, leading to significant weight loss and reduced food consumption. The study suggests that vigabatrin could potentially treat severe obesity, including binge eating patterns similar to those seen in cocaine dependency.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalSynapse·DateAug 20, 2008
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.

Oetzi the Iceman dressed like a herdsman

A new study analyzing Oetzi's hair samples reveals his clothes were made from sheep and cattle fur, supporting the idea that he was a herdsman. The technique used could be faster and more reliable for checking animal hair products and aiding manufacturers in adhering to EU laws.

SourceWiley·JournalRapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry·DateAug 20, 2008

Severe, acute maternal stress linked to the development of schizophrenia

A study published in BMC Psychiatry found that pregnant women experiencing severe stress during the second month of pregnancy are more likely to have children who develop schizophrenia. Women born in Jerusalem during the Arab-Israeli war had a higher risk of schizophrenia, particularly females.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateAug 20, 2008

UNC researcher aims to 'unmask' cancer cells to trigger body's immune system

Researchers at UNC are developing a unique way to deliver a nucleic acid derived from bacteria to tumors, allowing the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancerous cells. The goal is to create a reliable delivery method for immunotherapy, which has shown promise but faces challenges in consistency.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·DateAug 20, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study suggests sports stadiums serve alcohol to minors and intoxicated fans

Researchers found that sales rates to pseudo-underage buyers were 18% and to pseudo-intoxicated buyers were 74%. The study suggests sports stadiums serve alcohol to minors and intoxicated fans, highlighting the need for responsible service and law enforcement monitoring. Sales were more likely in stadium stands than concession booths.

SourceBurness·DateAug 20, 2008

Biochemists manipulate fruit flavor enzymes

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center have successfully manipulated flavor enzymes in plants, opening up possibilities for fine-tuning fruit flavors. The breakthrough could also lead to novel pest control methods using green leaf volatiles and jasmonates.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008

Researchers discover how rheumatoid arthritis causes bone loss

Researchers have identified Smurf1 as a signaling partner that damages bone in rheumatoid arthritis, guiding the development of new drugs to reverse bone loss. The study also suggests potential applications against osteoporosis by targeting Smurf1 with specific drugs.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 20, 2008
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.

Dartmouth workshop sets research agenda for environmental mercury

A group of experts has developed a roadmap for improving our understanding of how mercury moves through the marine ecosystem and into the fish we eat. The report prioritizes integrated monitoring across habitats, considering links between marine sources, biotransfer processes, and bioaccumulation mechanisms.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateAug 20, 2008

Numerical simulations of nutrient transport changes in Honghu Lake Basin

Numerical simulations of nutrient transport changes in Honghu Lake Basin revealed that human activities increased rapidly and became a dominant factor in changes of the nutrient transportation. The study found variations in nutrient production and concentration, with increasing rates of eutrophication over time.

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateAug 20, 2008

Fast quantum computer building block created

Scientists at University of Michigan and U.S. Naval Research Laboratory demonstrate a solid-state qubit that can be both 0 and 1 at the same time, enabling faster quantum computing and improved computer security. The breakthrough enables the creation of a code that would be impossible to crack with conventional computers.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 20, 2008

Codeine not safe for all breastfeeding moms and their babies

Research suggests that codeine may be unsuitable for all breastfed infants due to rapid metabolism into morphine, which can cause central nervous system depression. Fortunately, removal of exposure leads to dramatic improvement and no long-term adverse effects.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·DateAug 20, 2008
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Biologists find diatom to reduce red tide's toxicity

Scientists have discovered a diatom that can reduce the toxicity of red tide algae to both animals and other algae, potentially mitigating economic damage to the seafood and tourism industries. The research suggests that the diatom may degrade or neutralize the toxins produced by the red tide, offering new hope for reducing its impact.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateAug 20, 2008

Acute maternal stress during pregnancy linked to development of schizophrenia

Research found pregnant women experiencing high psychological stress are more likely to give birth to a child with schizophrenia. The study, which analyzed data from 88,829 people born in Jerusalem between 1964 and 1976, discovered a significantly higher incidence of schizophrenia among females.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateAug 20, 2008

Guideline: Surgery may be considered for extreme face pain

A new guideline developed by the American Academy of Neurology recommends surgery as a treatment option for people with extreme face pain due to trigeminal neuralgia. The guideline suggests that patients who don't respond well to drugs should consider surgical interventions to target the root of the trigeminal nerve.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 20, 2008
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.

Cervical cancer prevention should focus on vaccinating adolescent girls

The study suggests that universal vaccine coverage in young adolescent girls, initial catch-up efforts for women under 21, and revised screening policies can significantly reduce cervical cancer rates. Vaccination is predicted to be economically attractive if achieved in 12-year-old girls with long-lasting protection.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 20, 2008

Researchers discover scent of skin cancer

Researchers at Monell Chemical Senses Center have discovered a unique scent associated with basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. By analyzing volatile organic compounds in the air above skin lesions, they found distinct profiles that could potentially be used to screen for and diagnose skin cancers at early stages.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateAug 20, 2008
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Hubble sees magnetic monster in erupting galaxy

The Hubble Space Telescope has resolved individual threads of gas in the filaments of galaxy NGC 1275, revealing a magnetic structure that sustains them for over 100 million years. The discovery provides crucial clues about how giant black holes affect their surroundings.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008

Making 'good' fat from muscle and vice versa

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered a molecular switch that can convert muscle precursor cells into brown fat cells, which burn calories and release energy. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for obesity by activating the calorie-burning process in the body.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008