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Science News for February 8, 2009


A Zen discovery: Unrusted iron in ocean

A team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery that challenges the long-held assumption about oceanic iron cycles. They found that organic compounds can capture some iron spewed by hydrothermal vents, enabling it to be carried away in seawater and reaching the surface, where it can nourish marine life more efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 8, 2009

Growth factor protects key brain cells in Alzheimer's models

Researchers found that BDNF treatment can prevent or reverse memory loss, cognitive impairment, and brain cell degeneration in animal models of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests a potential novel approach to treating the disease by slowing its progression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 8, 2009

Scientists discover key factor in controlling the breakdown of bone

A new study reveals that the chemical mediator sphingosine-1-phosphate plays a crucial role in maintaining bone balance. Researchers found that mice with functional S1P receptors had denser bones than those without, suggesting a potential target for treating bone-resorptive disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateFeb 8, 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.

Revolutionary microchip uses 30 times less power

Scientists have created a microchip that uses 30 times less electricity while running seven times faster than today's technology, thanks to probabilistic logic. This technology has significant implications for the IT industry's carbon footprint, potentially reducing energy consumption in devices such as cell phones and medical implants.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 8, 2009

Scientists deconstruct cell division

Researchers have identified two proteins, dynein and Nudel, as crucial for regulating the assembly of the spindle matrix during mitosis. This finding broadens our understanding of how cells control critical events during division. Understanding spindle assembly is essential to comprehend cell fate choices and development.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 8, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

That gut feeling may actually reflect a reliable memory

A new Northwestern University study uses brain-reading technology to show that people can be more accurate in recognizing familiar images when distracted or guessing than when paying full attention. The research suggests that implicit recognition may play a significant role in everyday decision-making and problem-solving.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 8, 2009

Mama whales teach babies where to eat

Young southern right whales learn from their mothers where to feed in the ocean, but researchers worry they may not be able to adapt if food sources become scarce due to global warming.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 8, 2009