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Science News for April 29, 2009


Finding will improve accuracy of cancer diagnosis

Researchers found that adult cystic nephroma and mixed epithelial and stromal tumors are genetically similar and should be considered the same disease entity. This discovery will help doctors accurately diagnose the disease in patients, leading to improved patient care.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalThe American Journal of Surgical Pathology·DateApr 29, 2009

Scripps studies offer new picture of Lake Tahoe's earthquake potential

New studies by Scripps Institution of Oceanography suggest a magnitude-7 earthquake occurs every 2,000 to 3,000 years in Lake Tahoe's basin. The largest fault in the basin, West Tahoe, appears to have last ruptured between 4,100 and 4,500 years ago, capable of producing nearly 500m of overlying water tsunami waves.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Avian flu research sheds light on swine flu outbreak

Researchers found that after reassortment with a human influenza virus, an avian flu virus requires relatively few mutations to spread rapidly between mammals by respiratory droplets. This process is similar to the formation of the current swine flu outbreak, suggesting a potential link between avian and human influenza viruses.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2009

A glimpse at vision: First impressions count

Researchers at Children's Hospital Boston demonstrate that the brain can recognize objects quickly and consistently, even under different lighting conditions, size, and rotation. This finding could lead to advancements in teaching computers to see and improving brain-computer interfaces for individuals with visual impairment.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNeuron·DateApr 29, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Resolving a galactic mystery

A deep Chandra X-ray image has resolved a long-standing mystery about an X-ray glow along the plane of the Galaxy. The image reveals hundreds of point-like X-ray sources causing the glow, implying millions of such sources are responsible.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2009

Genetic risk for anxiety does not have to be destiny

A new study challenges the idea that individuals with certain genotypes are predestined to negative life outcomes. Infants raised in small social groups were more likely to be aggressive and anxious, particularly those with a low activity MAOA genotype. However, no genotype effects were evident in monkeys reared in larger social cages.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 29, 2009

Star Trek-like technology offers noninvasive monitor for patients and athletes

The Venus prototype uses near-infrared light to measure metabolic rate, tissue oxygen, and pH without needle pricks. This technology has numerous applications, including emergency medical care, sports performance, and patient monitoring, and may improve survival rates for trauma victims and astronauts in space.

SourceNational Space Biomedical Research Institute·DateApr 29, 2009

Quantum link to memory

Researchers are investigating whether mathematical similarities between word associations and quantum theory could lead to new models of how humans process words and meaning. The study aims to gain an understanding of the intriguing connections between cognitive science and quantum theory.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateApr 29, 2009

Older men more likely than women to die after pneumonia

A recent study published in Critical Care Medicine found that older men are at a higher risk of death from community-acquired pneumonia compared to women. The researchers discovered that men's bodies respond differently to infection, leading to a stronger inflammatory and coagulation response, which may break up blood clots more quickly.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateApr 29, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Iron-arsenic superconductors in class of their own

Physicists at Ames Laboratory have demonstrated that the superconductivity mechanism in iron-arsenide superconductors is unique compared to all other known classes of superconductors. The team found a power-law variation of London penetration depth, suggesting electron pairing different from any other known superconductor.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 29, 2009

Why are some young victims of domestic violence resilient?

Children exposed to domestic violence are almost four times more likely to develop emotional problems, but over half adapt well due to easy-going natures and their mothers' mental health. Easy-going children and mothers with good mental health can cope better with the stresses of exposure.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateApr 29, 2009

DOE funds bio-inspired solar fuel center at Arizona State

The Arizona State University EFRC will pursue advanced research on solar energy conversion based on photosynthesis principles. The goal is to design a synthetic system that uses sunlight to convert water into hydrogen fuel and oxygen, providing a renewable source of clean energy.

SourceArizona State University·DateApr 29, 2009

U of Minnesota researcher helps develop new technique for modifying plant genes

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new genome engineering tool to make model crop plants herbicide-resistant without significant DNA changes. This approach has the potential to provide sustainable solutions for producing food, fuel and fiber while minimizing concerns about genetically modified organisms.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2009

Nanophysicists find unexpected magnetic effect

Researchers found that the last atom in a line of single-atom contacts behaves differently than expected, altering the defining properties of ferromagnetic metals. The Kondo effect is observed in these tiny contacts, contradicting conventional wisdom about metal behavior at the nanoscale.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Adolescents hold differing views on civic and political activity

A new study reveals that most young people consider civic activity obligatory, but their judgments vary by factors like gender and involvement levels. Teen boys prioritize politics over community service, while girls emphasize community service as more important.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateApr 29, 2009

New pill to treat MS

A new study shows that taking cladribine tablets just a few times a year can dramatically reduce the chances of a relapse or deterioration of multiple sclerosis. Patients who took part in the trial suffered very few side effects, making it an effective oral therapy without constant injections.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateApr 29, 2009

Potentially harmful chemicals found in forest fire smoke

A study by PNNL researchers found that smoldering fires produce more toxins than wildfires, which can affect aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The discovery also suggests that smoke may play a role in transporting biologically useful nitrogen through the environment.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 29, 2009

New treatment discovered for restless legs syndrome improves sleep

A new treatment has been discovered for restless legs syndrome (RLS) that improves sleep. Pregabalin, a commonly used epilepsy and anxiety medication, was found to be effective in reducing RLS symptoms by nearly two-thirds of participants. The study showed significant improvements in deep sleep stages compared to those taking a placebo.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Teen drug education also helps curb risky sexual behavior, study finds

A new RAND Corporation study found that school-based drug education programs can have a long-term positive impact on sexual behavior in addition to curbing substance abuse. Young adults who received the training were less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior five to seven years later.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateApr 29, 2009

Half a glass of wine a day may boost life expectancy by 5 years

A study of 1,373 men found that light long-term alcohol consumption, especially wine, was associated with a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and death from all causes. Moderate wine consumption was linked to an extended life expectancy of around five years in men.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 29, 2009
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Oxytocin: Love potion #1?

Researchers found that oxytocin increased positive communication behavior in relation to negative behavior, reducing salivary cortisol levels. The study evaluated real-time natural couple behavior in the laboratory, providing new insights into the effects of social interaction on mental health.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 29, 2009

ONR lecturer offers 5 tips for interagency collaboration

Dr. Kathie Olsen, a neuroscience expert, offers 5 tips for program officers to advance their ideas: exposure, management support, persistence, relationships matter, and program value. ONR's efforts to host distinguished lecturers aim to promote collaboration and innovation.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateApr 29, 2009

Migraine prevention by targeting glutamate receptors?

A Phase IIa clinical trial shows that ADX10059, a negative mGluR5 allosteric modulator, significantly improves pain-free status and pain improvement in patients with acute migraine attacks. The study's findings support the potential of targeting mGluR5 signaling for migraine prevention.

SourceHalsin Partners·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Study of breast cancer risk factors in young women

A study of breast cancer risk factors in young women suggests that risk assessment and prevention should start much earlier in life. The study found a link between breast tissue composition in young women and the risk of breast cancer in middle age and older.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateApr 29, 2009

Make brighter, full-color electronic readers? -- Brilliant!

A new technology developed at the University of Cincinnati enables full-color electronic paper with excellent brightness, color saturation, and video speed. The Electrofluidic Display Technology (EFD) has the potential to transform e-readers into mainstream products, such as Amazon Kindle, and create high-tech jobs in southwest Ohio.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 29, 2009

World's fastest camera relies on an entirely new type of imaging

Researchers at UCLA developed a novel camera that captures images at 6 million frames per second, overcoming conventional camera limitations. The camera's optical image amplification enables continuous real-time imaging of rapid phenomena in physics, chemistry, and biology.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Simulated gene therapy

Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley and Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a comprehensive numerical study of gene therapy. The research sheds light on the key factors that determine the success of dendrimers as gene delivery vehicles, including the charges of the dendrimers and their target cell membranes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateApr 29, 2009

Limping rat provides sciatica insights

Researchers developed an animal model for sciatica, a painful nerve condition characterized by numbness, pain, and leg difficulties. The study found that immune system activation contributes to symptoms, with elevated IL-17 levels linked to physical symptoms.

SourceDuke University·JournalSpine·DateApr 29, 2009

Origins of wolverine in California genetically verified

A study published in Northwest Science has verified the origins of a California wolverine through genetic analysis. The animal, photographed in 2008, is most closely related to Rocky Mountain populations and shares unique genetic characteristics with other North American wolverines.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalNorthwest Science·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Tufted bacteria cause infection in premature babies

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered tufted bacteria can attach to premature babies' skin, causing infection. The bacteria's unique hair-like structures facilitate adhesion, while LL37 antimicrobial peptide helps inhibit growth.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPediatric Research·DateApr 29, 2009

Repeatedly working when ill boosts risk of long term sick leave

Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that repeatedly going to work when ill increases the chances of taking long-term sick leave. Workers who did this at least half a dozen times were more likely to take extended absences, even after accounting for other risk factors.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

DOE to establish Energy Frontier Research Center at PNNL

The Department of Energy has established a new Energy Frontier Research Center at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to study catalysis for solar energy and fuel cells. The center will be led by chemist Morris Bullock and will focus on grand challenges in converting electrical energy into chemical bonds and back again.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateApr 29, 2009

Migraine prevention by targeting glutamate receptors?

A Phase IIa clinical trial suggests that targeting glutamate receptor mGluR5 with ADX10059 may prevent migraine attacks before they start. The study found that patients taking ADX10059 were more likely to be pain-free two hours after treatment than those receiving a placebo.

SourceHalsin Partners·DateApr 29, 2009

Ka-Boom! The sequel

The US Department of Homeland Security has successfully tested new camera prototypes in a simulated bomb attack, with 14 out of 16 surviving without image degradation. The cameras were designed to be rugged and affordable for use in mass transit venues, where full surveillance systems are not feasible.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Young children think gender-related behavior is inborn

A study found that young children think about gender in a way similar to how they think about species differences. They tend to believe that certain behaviors are innate and not influenced by environment. As children grow older, they begin to understand the role of environment in shaping gender-related behaviors.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateApr 29, 2009

Rogue black holes may roam the Milky Way

New calculations suggest hundreds of massive rogue black holes are left over from the early universe, potentially wandering the Milky Way's outer reaches. These relics could provide clues about galaxy formation history and the formation of black holes in the early universe.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 29, 2009

Urine screening test may one day predict coronary artery disease

A new urine screening test has shown promise in predicting coronary artery disease by identifying specific protein patterns associated with the condition. The test uses proteome analysis to detect collagen fragments found on the surface of atherosclerotic plaques, achieving an accuracy rate of 84%.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Vanderbilt engineers play key role in new DOE energy frontier research center

A new multi-million-dollar Energy Frontier Research Center announced by the White House will focus on understanding gas-liquid interactions at solid surfaces. This research has potential applications in developing more efficient batteries, solar and electrical energy conversion into fuel, improved fuel cells, and enhanced corrosion res...

SourceVanderbilt University·DateApr 29, 2009

Risk factors identified for pneumonia after heart surgery

A study of 971 patients found VAP accounted for almost half of nosocomial infections, with a crude mortality rate of 35%. Anticipative antimicrobial therapy may be a potential intervention to avoid VAP in mechanically ventilated patients.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateApr 29, 2009

Drugs needed to preserve eggs for reproduction need to be given in stages

Researchers developed a mathematical model predicting optimal time for loading and unloading cryoprotectants, which reduces egg size shifts and improves fertilization chances. Using sugars like trehalose, these staged drugs can help preserve eggs at subzero temperatures, enabling easier transportation and potential transplantation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Reproduction and Development·DateApr 29, 2009

Majority of Americans support voting reforms

A recent survey conducted by a University of Missouri professor reveals that the U.S. public supports several voting reforms, including early voting and photo identification requirements. Americans expressed strong approval for these measures, with less support for vote by mail and election day registration.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Intel named winner of 2009 INFORMS prize in analytics

Intel was awarded the 2009 INFORMS Prize for its extensive use of operations research to drive significant value and competitive advantage throughout its business. The prize recognized Intel's ability to apply O.R. techniques across various functions, resulting in over $2 billion in improved decision-making.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateApr 29, 2009

Added anti-viral improves response, halves duration of hepatitis C treatment

A study coordinated by Duke University Medical Center found that adding the anti-viral drug telaprevir to standard therapy can shorten treatment duration by 50% and improve cure rates by 50%. The new combination therapy showed a sustained viral response rate of 67% in patients with genotype 1 hepatitis C.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 29, 2009

HP wins INFORMS 2009 Edelman prize

HP's innovative use of operations research tools, including Complexity ROI Calculator and Revenue Coverage Optimization, led to significant bottom line savings and improved customer satisfaction. The company's approach has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in cost savings and a more streamlined product offering.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateApr 29, 2009

Parkinson's: Neurons destroyed by 3 simultaneous strikes

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center found that dopamine, a calcium channel, and alpha-synuclein act together to kill brain cells in Parkinson's disease. The discovery gives hope for saving neurons and stopping the progression of the disease by targeting just one of the three factors.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Human brain contains neurons with a preference for whole real words

A new study found that neurons in the visual word form area of the left visual cortex prefer individual real words over pronounceable nonsense words. This discovery supports experience-driven tuning of neurons to real words and provides evidence for neural plasticity beyond lower-level representations.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateApr 29, 2009

African-American teens' perceptions of racial discrimination

A three-year study of over 200 African American teens aged 14-18 found that older teens who experienced more racial bias felt less positive about being Black. The study suggests bolstering youth's feelings about their racial group membership, especially positive views on being African American.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateApr 29, 2009

Tiny differences in our genes help shed light on the big picture of human history

Scientists have developed a new tool to identify big events in human history by examining tiny genetic differences. This research, published in the journal Genetics, confirms a major decline in European populations 32,500-47,500 years ago and helps pinpoint gene mutations linked to diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalGenetics·DateApr 29, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Zebrafish offer clues to treatments for motor neurone disease

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have discovered that zebrafish can produce motor neurones after spinal cord damage, offering a potential stem cell treatment for humans. Researchers are now screening small molecules to find drugs that could kick-start motor neurone regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateApr 29, 2009

Potential preventative therapy for type 1 diabetes

Researchers found that blocking a hormone called BAFF can prevent the development of Type 1 diabetes in mice. By depleting B cells, regulators of the immune system rise, allowing T regulatory cells to function properly and making killer T cells tolerant of insulin-producing cells.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 29, 2009

Darwin in a test tube

Researchers at Scripps Research develop molecules that can evolve and compete for resources, demonstrating niche partitioning in coevolution. The study shows how different species adapt to specific food sources over time, a classic concept in Darwinian evolution.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2009
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Potential lung disease biomarkers yield clues to COX-2 inhibitor side effects

Scientists have discovered two biomarkers that may indicate the presence of smoking-related lung injury and cardiovascular side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. Elevated levels of PGE-M and LTE4 in urine could lead to earlier detection and treatment, reducing the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart problems.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateApr 29, 2009