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Science News for June 26, 2008


A simple therapy for brain injury

Researchers found that administering a simple polymer, Polyethylene glycol, within four hours of a head injury can limit damage and improve behavioral tests in rats. The treatment is potentially feasible for victims of traumatic brain injury, especially when delivered at the scene of an accident.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biological Engineering·DateJun 26, 2008

MySpace looks to USC to help servers keep up with users

To keep up with the potential half-billion users, MySpace is working with a University of Southern California specialist to improve server performance. Researchers are exploring a new heuristic algorithm to maintain and replace data in DRAM, aiming to increase capacity and speed.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateJun 26, 2008

How to build a plant

Scientists have unraveled plant architecture at the molecular level using genomic data, shedding light on flower and grain development in maize. They characterized key gene networks and biochemical pathways, providing insights into plant construction and evolutionary conservation.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·DateJun 26, 2008

Device blocking stomach nerve signals shows promise in obesity

A new implantable device blocks stomach nerve signals, resulting in significant weight loss in obese participants. The study found that a quarter of patients lost over 25% of their excess weight and three patients lost more than 30%. A follow-up double-blinded study will be conducted to assess the device's true effectiveness.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalSurgery·DateJun 26, 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.

July-August Geological Society of America Bulletin media highlights

Research highlights eruptive processes in Colorado's San Juan Mountains and unique features of West Antarctica's ice record. In Colombia, climate-driven erosion rates reveal interactions between faults and mountain asymmetry. Magela Creek in northern Australia shows branching and growth patterns.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateJun 26, 2008

Scientists find how neural activity spurs blood flow in the brain

Researchers at Harvard University have identified a key mechanism by which neural activity increases blood flow to the brain. Astrocytes play a crucial role in this process, releasing neurotransmitters that bind to and elevate intracellular calcium levels, leading to blood vessel dilation.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateJun 26, 2008

In 'novel playground,' metals are formed into porous nanostructures

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new method to self-assemble metals into complex nanostructures. This allows for the creation of more efficient catalysts for fuel cells and industrial processes. Additionally, it enables the development of microstructured surfaces to enhance conductor performance.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2008

Ancient Mexican maize varieties

Scientists are sequencing ancient maize landraces to recapture the full genetic diversity of this complex crop. The Palomero genome is about 22% smaller than B73, revealing a large pool of unexplored genetic diversity.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·DateJun 26, 2008

What price for a more effective health care system?

Gary Banks argues that a more cost-effective health system is necessary to address increasing demand and costs. The Productivity Commission Chairman suggests potential solutions include policy initiatives in various areas of healthcare.

SourceResearch Australia·DateJun 26, 2008
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.

Researchers study hidden homicide trend

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers found significant increases in firearm homicide among young male populations between 1999 and 2005. The overall US homicide rate remained flat during this period, but firearm deaths rose sharply, with black males experiencing higher rates than whites.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateJun 26, 2008

Higher temperatures helped new strain of West Nile virus spread

A new study reveals that warmer temperatures significantly accelerated the spread of a new strain of West Nile virus across North America. The virus displaced the older strain and led to two of the largest epidemics on record, with over 270 deaths in both 2002 and 2003.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 26, 2008

Quantum computing breakthrough arises from unknown molecule

Researchers at Purdue University have created a hybrid molecule that can be intentionally manipulated, opening the door to quantum computing in semiconductors. This discovery enables control over the quantum state, a required step for building quantum computers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 26, 2008
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.

Treatment for cigarette, alcohol and drug use in pregnancy improves outcomes for mom and baby

A Kaiser Permanente study published online in the Journal of Perinatology found that integrating substance abuse screening and treatment into routine prenatal care improved health outcomes for pregnant women. The study, which examined nearly 50,000 women, found that treating pregnant women with substance abuse early in their pregnancy ...

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of Perinatology·DateJun 26, 2008

'No men allowed' in women's secret world

A University of Missouri professor found that men conducting field research on women are limited to specific subjects due to restrictions on access. The Diola people's culture and rituals, such as their fertility shrine Ehugna, were difficult for male researchers to study due to social norms and expectations.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMen and Masculinities·DateJun 26, 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.

'Early bird' project really gets the worm

The Early Bird Project, a five-year study funded by the National Science Foundation, has collected DNA sequence data from 169 bird species. The research revealed that birds adapted to diverse environments multiple times and that distinctive lifestyles evolved independently. The study's findings will be published in Science on June 27.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2008

Exposing the sensitivity of extreme ultraviolet photoresists

Scientists at NIST have confirmed that EUV photoresist sensitivity is twice the previously believed value. The finding raises concerns about optical system effectiveness in current demonstration tools. This discovery has significant implications for high-volume manufacturing processes in development.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 26, 2008

Study links gastric bypass surgery to increased risk of kidney stones

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that morbidly obese patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery are at an increased risk of developing kidney stones as early as three months post-operation. The study suggests a possible link between the surgical procedure and changes in urinary electr...

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 26, 2008

Lack of fragile X and related gene fractures sleep

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that mice deficient in fragile X and related genes have disrupted sleep-wake cycles, leading to a lack of rhythm. This finding provides new insights into the causes of fragile X syndrome and its impact on patients.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 26, 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.

Beyond chess: Deep green models rapid change for combat commanders

The Deep Green program aims to create a system that can help future combat commanders anticipate enemy moves and adjust plans. The system uses anticipatory planning with adaptive execution, generating options for all sides in an operation and predicting the likelihood of multiple futures.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateJun 26, 2008

Pregnancy may help protect against bladder cancer

Researchers found that female mice who became pregnant had significantly fewer bladder cancers than their counterparts, with an average tumor volume about 15 times greater in non-pregnant females. The study suggests a possible role for hormones in bladder cancer protection.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalUrology·DateJun 26, 2008

$1.8M awarded for metastatic colon cancer research

The American Association for Cancer Research has awarded $1.8 million to three researchers to study genetic signatures, epigenetic staging, and individualized therapy for metastatic colon cancer. The grants aim to accelerate the discovery of new treatments and improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateJun 26, 2008

Ovarian cancer's specific scent detected by dogs

Researchers found that ovarian cancer has a distinct scent different from other cancers, which can be detected by trained dogs. Early-stage and low-grade ovarian cancers emit the same scent as advanced tumors.

SourceSAGE·JournalIntegrative Cancer Therapies·DateJun 26, 2008

Hard work while fatigued affects blood pressure

Research found that exhausted individuals experience larger blood pressure increases when attempting tasks, even if they perceive success as achievable. Chronic fatigue can amplify effort and lead to elevated blood pressure, increasing the risk of hypertension and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateJun 26, 2008
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.

New study examines the validity of epo testing

A recent study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology examines the validity of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEpo) testing. The research found that the detection power of the test is poor, with high rates of false negative results. This has significant implications for anti-doping efforts and fair competition.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateJun 26, 2008

New process creates 3-D nanostructures with magnetic materials

Researchers at NIST created a method to build complex 3D nanoscale structures of magnetic materials like nickel using standard semiconductor manufacturing techniques. The technique enables the creation of sensors and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) with magnetic alloys.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateJun 26, 2008

Portable device effective in zapping away migraine pain

A portable transcranial magnetic stimulator (TMS) device has been found to be safe and effective in eliminating headaches during the onset of migraines. The device's pulses interrupt the electrical storms in the brain that lead to throbbing head pain, offering a promising new treatment option for those suffering from chronic migraines.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·DateJun 26, 2008

Improving university recruitment process may increase female surgical faculty, study finds

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that optimizing university recruitment strategies and processes can lead to a significant increase in female surgical faculty. The research also identified cultural stereotypes, insufficient mentoring, and family responsibilities as barriers to women's career ad...

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 26, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Understanding the desire for 'freshness' -- a first step towards saving water

The new strategy focuses on reducing per capita consumption from 150 litres to 130 litres per day, emphasizing the need for a sociological perspective to understand water usage habits. The report explores the role of metering and price signals in encouraging water efficiency, as well as the development of rising block tariffs.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJun 26, 2008

Chronic kidney disease -- unnoticed, common, increasing and deadly

A cohort of half a million patients in Taiwan found that chronic kidney disease has a high prevalence and associated all-cause mortality, especially in low socioeconomic status groups. CKD is treatable and preventable at earlier stages, but awareness and treatment are often lacking globally.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 26, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Elevated biomarkers predict risk for prostate cancer recurrence

A panel of seven biomarkers can predict prostate cancer risk with high accuracy, offering a major step forward in patient care. Elevated levels of these biomarkers were associated with increased risk of relapse, and the combination of all seven variables accurately predicted risk 86.6 percent of the time.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 26, 2008

Oxygen ions for fuel cells get loose at low(er) temperatures

Researchers discovered a novel structure that enables oxygen ions to move through fuel cells at lower temperatures than previously thought possible. This breakthrough may lead to reduced operating costs and improved efficiency in stationary fuel cells.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 26, 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.

Study suggests a little milk could go a long way for your heart

Researchers found that adults who consumed at least one serving of lowfat milk or milk products daily had 37% lower odds of poor kidney function linked to heart disease. A diet rich in lowfat milk and whole grains, fruits, and vegetables was also associated with a reduced risk.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 26, 2008

'Electron trapping' may impact future microelectronics measurements

Researchers at NIST have uncovered an unusual phenomenon that may impact how manufacturers estimate the lifetime of future nanoscale electronics. The 'electron trapping' effect causes a temporary negative charge and heightened conductivity during recovery from stress, complicating threshold voltage shift measurements.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 26, 2008

SEX4, starch and phosphorylation

Researchers have identified a new molecular mechanism of starch breakdown in plants, involving the action of enzymes that place and remove phosphate groups on starch molecules. This process is finely tuned to diurnal changes in photosynthesis and circadian rhythms.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·DateJun 26, 2008
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.

Ronin an alternate control for embryonic stem cells

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered a novel cellular regulator called Ronin, which maintains embryonic stem cells in their undifferentiated state. This finding suggests an alternative control mechanism to the previously identified proteins Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJun 26, 2008

Researchers identify promising cancer drug target in prostate tumors

Scientists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered that blocking p110beta molecule inhibits prostate tumor growth, suggesting it as a potential target for novel cancer therapies. The study, published in Nature, reveals p110beta's role in driving runaway cell growth when PTEN function is impaired.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature·DateJun 26, 2008

On the boil: New nano technique significantly boosts boiling efficiency

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new nano technique that significantly enhances boiling efficiency by up to 30 times. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize cooling methods for computer chips, improve heat transfer systems, and reduce energy costs in industrial applications.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalSmall·DateJun 26, 2008

Starvation hormone makes for small mice, study finds

A new study finds that high levels of FGF21 hormone cause mice to become resistant to growth hormone, stunting their growth. This discovery provides insights into the physiological role of FGF21 in energy conservation during food deprivation.

SourceCell Press·DateJun 26, 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.

Standards set for energy-conserving LED lighting

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed the first two standards for solid-state lighting in the US, detailing color specifications and test methods for LED lamps and light fixtures. These standards aim to significantly reduce energy consumption and improve color rendering.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 26, 2008

Algae from the ocean a sustainable energy source of the future

Researchers at Kansas State University are exploring the potential of ocean-grown algae as a sustainable energy source. The project aims to identify suitable materials and attributes that enable algae growth on solid carriers, with the goal of developing a cost-effective process for biofuel manufacturing.

SourceKansas State University·DateJun 26, 2008