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Science News for August 11, 2009


IU research at the American Sociological Association meeting

Researchers at Indiana University found that stigma surrounding mental illnesses like depression and bipolar disorder remains despite increased pharmaceutical advertising. The study suggests that medicalization of these conditions has not reduced stigma, contrary to current thinking.

SourceIndiana University·DateAug 11, 2009

Magnetic microbe genome attracting attention for biotech research

Scientists have sequenced the genome of magnetotactic bacteria, revealing common gene clusters and a key to unlocking new technologies. The study could accelerate biotechnology and nanotechnology research with applications in electromagnetic tapes, drug delivery, magnetic resonance imaging, and cell separation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateAug 11, 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.

Particles as tracers for the most massive explosions in the Milky Way

Scientists from the University of Gothenburg found that a mysterious flux of electrons and positrons originates from supernova remnants, not dark matter. The study shows that a star 15 times more massive than the sun exploded in the Milky Way, creating a shock-wave that accelerated particles.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 11, 2009

New no-needle approach to prevent blood clots

Researchers have developed a new oral anti-clotting drug called Apixaban that is effective in preventing blood clots and reducing bleeding risk by half. The treatment was tested in a double-blind study of over 3,000 patients and proved to be a major step forward in preventing deadly blood clots after joint replacement surgery.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 11, 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.

Reshaping the UK through innovation

The UK Innovation Research Centre has announced phase two of its initiative, focusing on substantive and exploratory research projects in areas such as financial innovations, public procurement, and environmental regulation. The £1.5 million funding will support high-quality research and knowledge hub activity.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateAug 11, 2009

Oxygen treatment hastens memory loss in Alzheimer's mice

A recent animal model study found that exposure to high concentrations of oxygen hastens memory loss in Alzheimer's mice. The study suggests that the combination of brain beta amyloid and hyperoxia may trigger Alzheimer's symptoms, particularly in those at increased risk. Researchers propose reducing oxygen exposure as a potential prev...

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNeuroreport·DateAug 11, 2009

Anti-psychotic drugs could help fight cancer

Researchers have discovered that pimozide and olazapine, anti-psychotic drugs, can kill cancer cells in laboratory experiments. These findings suggest that these medications may be effective in treating certain types of cancer, such as lung and brain cancer.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateAug 11, 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.

Round Goby invade Great Lakes

A team of scientists from the University of Toronto identified a drastic invasion of round goby into many Great Lakes tributaries, including areas known as 'species-at-risk' hot spots. The impact on native fish and mussel species is likely to be serious, with up to 89% of fish species and 17% of mussel species affected.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalBiological Invasions·DateAug 11, 2009

VA renews funding for limb-loss research in Providence

The Center for Restorative and Regenerative Medicine at Brown University has secured a new $7-million funding round from the VA to continue its work on restoring arm and leg function to amputees. Researchers will focus on developing biohybrid limbs, improving prosthetics, and rehabilitating veterans with limb trauma.

SourceBrown University·DateAug 11, 2009

Finding may explain anti-cancer activity of thiazole antibiotics

University of Illinois researchers found that thiazole antibiotics stabilize other cancer-causing proteins and inhibit the proteasome, a molecular complex degrading old proteins. This inhibition may lead to effective anti-cancer treatment through combination therapy with well-known proteasome inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 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.

Antibodies to strep throat bacteria linked to obsessive compulsive disorder in mice

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health have found a link between antibodies to strep throat bacteria and the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder in mice. The study suggests that an inappropriate immune response to the bacteria may trigger psychiatric symptoms, providing new insights into identifyi...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 11, 2009

Research examines organization of militaries and its effects on society

A new study by Steve Carlton-Ford at the University of Cincinnati found that major armed conflicts have little consistent effect on child mortality rates, while social militarization significantly increases child mortality. The research also reveals that praetorian militaries have a detrimental impact on civilian populations.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 11, 2009
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Anthrax bacteria conspire with viruses to stay alive

Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered that Bacillus anthracis forms a symbiotic relationship with viruses to survive and thrive. The viruses alter the lifestyle of the bacteria, influencing its ability to produce spores and form communities.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 2009

New groundbreaking treatment for oxygen-deprived newborns

A two-week course of erythropoietin injections has shown promising results in preventing brain damage in oxygen-deprived newborns. The treatment, which can be started up to two days after birth, improves the prognosis and reduces side effects compared to cooling.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 11, 2009

SLAC researchers reveal the dance of water

Recent work at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory reveals two distinct structures in liquid water: tetrahedral and disordered regions. The researchers discovered that these structures exist in 'clumps' made up to 100 molecules, with the temperature affecting their distribution and density.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 11, 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.

Discovery of genetic mutation in Leigh syndrome

A genetic mutation in the TACO1 gene has been identified as underlying late-onset Leigh syndrome, a rare inherited metabolic disorder characterized by central nervous system degeneration. The study provides insights into cell biology and will lead to diagnostic and predictive tests for family and genetic counseling.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 11, 2009

Denosumab increases bone density, cuts fracture risk in prostate cancer survivors

A new study found that denosumab significantly increased bone density at all monitored sites and reduced new vertebral fractures by 62% in men receiving androgen-deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. The treatment also showed improvements in bone density at the radius, one of the bones in the forearm.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 11, 2009

Computer system improves pain therapy for cancer patients

A new computer system has been successfully tested at Heidelberg University Hospital to improve pain therapy for cancer patients. The system, AiDPainCare, was found to have little variance from international guidelines and reduced patient pain.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalPain·DateAug 11, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NSF awards UCLA Engineering $10M to create customized computing technology

Researchers at UCLA Engineering will create customized computing technology for health care and medical imaging, promising more energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions. The project aims to transform the role of medical imaging and hemodynamic simulation, improving health care quality, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateAug 11, 2009

High school teacher's algebra book aces California test

A North Carolina high school teacher's algebra II textbook has scored a 96 on California's state textbook standards, meeting 26 of the 27 standards tested. The book was created by Kenny Felder and is one of the first open-source texts submitted for California's K-12 initiative.

SourceRice University·DateAug 11, 2009

Discovery may lead to powerful new therapy for asthma

Researchers have found that blocking a key enzyme, aldose reductase, can significantly reduce asthma symptoms. The discovery opens the way for human trials of a new treatment, which could provide a badly needed alternative to existing therapies.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 2009

New laser technique may help find supernova

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have created a laser technique that can help identify a rare isotope called 182Hf, which would prove that a supernova once exploded near our solar system. The technique uses negative ions and laser light to detach an extra electron from some elements while leaving others intact.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPhysical Review A·DateAug 11, 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.

The ugly truth about one night stands

A recent study by Dr. Achim Schützwohl found that men are more likely to engage in casual sex than women, and that they have lower standards for attractiveness. In contrast, women place a greater emphasis on their partner's physical appearance, preferring to engage in casual sex with exceptionally attractive individuals.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Nature·DateAug 11, 2009

What is alternative treatment for irritable bowel syndrome when conventional therapy has failed?

A randomized controlled trial found that low-dose imipramine improved global symptoms and quality of life in patients with IBS who had failed conventional therapy. The study, published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, is the largest ever conducted on the use of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) in IBS patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateAug 11, 2009

What's the semantic organization of human language?

Research reveals that dynamic semantic network of human language is small-world and scale-free but differs from syntactic network in hierarchical structure and node degree correlation. This discovery sheds light on the organization of human semantic knowledge and cognition.

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateAug 11, 2009

Multi-laboratory study sizes up nanoparticle sizing

A multi-laboratory study has updated ASTM guidelines for measuring nanoparticle size, incorporating statistically evaluated data from 26 laboratories. The results provide a valuable benchmark for labs measuring nanoparticles, which is crucial in biotech applications where nanoparticle size affects cell response.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateAug 11, 2009
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.

Older drivers unaware of risks from medications and driving

A new study reveals that 95% of older drivers (ages 55+) have medical conditions and take medications, yet only 28% are aware of the potential impact on their driving ability. The researchers emphasize the need for increased education and awareness among health professionals and patients to address this critical issue.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateAug 11, 2009

Launch of the first standard graphical notation for biology

The Systems Biology Graphical Notation (SBGN) is a new visual language for graphically representing biological information, aiming to make complex models accurate, efficient, and easy to understand. Developed by researchers worldwide, SBGN will benefit systems biologists working on various biochemical processes.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 11, 2009

Researchers unravel mystery behind long-lasting memories

A new study reveals that strong memories, such as those of a first love or a traumatic event, are formed through the activation of Protein Kinase C (PKC) by norepinephrine in the brain. This process creates stronger connections between nerve cells, leading to long-lasting memories.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalNeuroscience·DateAug 11, 2009
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.

Excessive drinking can damage brain regions used for processing facial emotions

A recent study found that excessive drinking can lead to reduced activity in the amygdala and hippocampus, two brain regions responsible for processing facial emotions. This can result in emotional difficulties, such as misperceiving facial cues, emotional flatness, and apathy, which can negatively impact interpersonal relationships.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateAug 11, 2009

Ytterbium gains ground in quest for next-generation atomic clocks

A new experimental atomic clock using ytterbium atoms has achieved accuracy comparable to the nation's civilian time standard, while ongoing comparisons with other clocks will help determine the most accurate option for future time and frequency standards. This development supports advancements in technologies such as high data rate te...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 11, 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.

Caltech scientists help launch the first standard graphical notation for biology

The Systems Biology Graphical Notation (SBGN) provides a standardized visual language for representing biological information, making it easier to exchange complex information. The new standard will benefit systems biologists working on various biochemical processes, including gene regulation, metabolism, and cellular signaling.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 11, 2009

Capping a two-faced particle gives duke engineers complete control

Researchers at Duke University have developed a novel class of Janus particles that can be controlled in six degrees of freedom. This breakthrough allows for precise manipulation of the particles' positions and orientations, opening up possibilities for various applications, including electronic paper and self-propelling micromachines.

SourceDuke University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 11, 2009

Mysterious charge transport in self-assembled monolayer transistors unraveled

A recent study reveals that monolayer coverage and channel length set the mobility in self-assembled monolayer field-effect transistors, leading to the development of cost-effective chemical sensors. The research team's findings were published in Nature Nanotechnology and provide a widely applicable two-dimensional percolation model.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 11, 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.

Discovery to aid study of biological structures, molecules

Researchers discovered that an atomic force microscope's behavior changes when used in water, enabling the study of biological molecules' mechanical properties. The findings reveal details about a bacterial membrane and a virus called Phi29, shedding light on their intrinsic variations in local stiffness.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 11, 2009

The public overestimates benefits of cancer screening, survey finds

A public survey in Europe found that most people overestimate the life-saving benefits of breast and prostate cancer screening. The study's findings highlight the need for accurate screening messages to include risks associated with overdiagnosis and overtreatment.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 11, 2009

Taking dex can improve high altitude exercise capacity in certain climbers

Researchers found that taking dexamethasone prophylactically improves exercise capacity, oxygen uptake kinetics and decreases anaerobic threshold in HAPE-susceptible climbers. Dexamethasone reduces pulmonary artery pressure and has anti-inflammatory properties, but also carries significant side effects.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 11, 2009

UT Southwestern physicians bust myths about insulin

A recent study at UT Southwestern Medical Center suggests that taking insulin as the initial treatment for type 2 diabetes can be just as effective as other options, reducing low-blood-sugar events and weight gain. Insulin-based therapy has been shown to improve patient satisfaction and overall quality of life.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateAug 11, 2009
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.

Binge drinking affects attention and working memory in young university students

A recent study found that binge drinkers expend more attentional effort to complete tasks and have difficulties differentiating between relevant and irrelevant information. Young Spanish university students who engaged in binge drinking showed anomalies during a visual working memory task, requiring greater attentional processing.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateAug 11, 2009

Cardiac arrest resuscitation: Passive oxygen flow better than assisted ventilation

A new study from Arizona suggests passive oxygen flow is more effective than assisted ventilation in treating patients experiencing cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting. The modified protocol, called Cardiocerebral Resuscitation, resulted in higher survival rates compared to conventional bag-valve-mask ventilation.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 11, 2009

Perform non-radiation ERCP during pregnancy: Is it safe?

Researchers from Turkey performed a non-radiation ERCP procedure on six pregnant patients with choledocholithiasis and one patient with biliary fistula, showing no complications. Laboratory and ultrasonographic follow-up confirmed successful treatment and stone extraction without radiation exposure.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateAug 11, 2009

Where science feeds action, leopards win

A six-year study led by Panthera demonstrates that conservation strategies can significantly increase leopard populations and reduce human-cat conflict. The study, published in Biological Conservation, found that implementing regulations to disperse hunting pressure across a province helped stabilize the population, leading to increase...

SourcePanthera·JournalBiological Conservation·DateAug 11, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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