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Science News for June 2, 2009


Memory with a twist: NIST develops a flexible memristor

Researchers at NIST have created a flexible memristor that operates on less than 10 volts, maintains its memory when power is lost, and functions after being flexed over 4,000 times. The device bears similarities to a memristor, a component theorized in 1971 as a fourth fundamental circuit element.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Electron Device Letters·DateJun 2, 2009

Study further expands understanding of leptin's role in brain neurocircuitry

Scientists discover that restoring leptin sensitivity to a specific area of POMC neurons in the brain's hypothalamus can cure severe diabetes and increase activity levels in mice. The findings suggest a new therapeutic pathway for treating insulin-resistant diabetes, potentially stimulating exercise willpower.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 2, 2009

Improved techniques will help control heat in large data centers

To combat increasing cooling demands, researchers are exploring advanced cooling strategies and developing new heat transfer models. By optimizing airflow patterns and using liquid cooling, they aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce waste heat conversion into other forms of energy.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·DateJun 2, 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.

Enzyme involved in inflammatory bowel disease discovered at Penn State College of Medicine

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine have discovered an enzyme called meprin that plays a key role in the severity of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The study found that mice lacking meprin had more severe intestinal damage, indicating that meprin reduces inflammation.

SourcePenn State Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateJun 2, 2009

Bleeding disorders going undiagnosed; new guidelines to help

Women with heavy menstrual cycles may be at risk for undiagnosed bleeding disorders. The new guidelines emphasize recognizing symptoms beyond just heavy bleeding, such as family history and laboratory tests. Early diagnosis can prevent complications like bleeding to death during menstruation, childbirth, or surgical procedures.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJun 2, 2009

Weight management techniques reflect advances in the field

Researchers found that private insurance patients had better weight loss outcomes and lower complication rates compared to Medicare patients. Duodenal switch surgery may be more effective than gastric bypass surgery for certain obesity-related medical problems, such as diabetes and high cholesterol.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateJun 2, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Insomniac flies resemble sleep-deprived humans

Fruit flies resembling insomniac humans have been created to study the causes of insomnia. The flies exhibit similar behavioral patterns to humans with insomnia, including increased sensitivity to stimuli and difficulty falling asleep. Researchers believe this model can help develop new treatments for insomnia.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateJun 2, 2009

The first goal is the deepest

Researchers Jack Brimberg and Bill Hurley develop a mathematical model to assess the importance of scoring the first goal in soccer and hockey. Their Poisson distribution-based formula takes into account factors like league position and time remaining, providing a probability of winning for each team.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Operational Research·DateJun 2, 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.

Study: Lack of capital not a 'death sentence' for start-ups

A new study from North Carolina State University shows that undercapitalized start-ups can still be successful by minimizing cash outflows and adapting management strategies. A great technology product, not a top-notch management team, is often more important in securing investment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJun 2, 2009

Weill Cornell receives $100,000 Grand Challenges Explorations grant

Weill Cornell Medical College has received a $100,000 Grand Challenges Explorations grant to study the dormant state of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. The project aims to understand how it protects itself from the body's natural defenses and develop a drug target to break through its protective shield.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·DateJun 2, 2009

Texas A&M researchers examine 'invading' bacteria in DNA

Researchers at Texas A&M University have found that certain types of bacteria integrate invading DNA into their genetic makeup to increase their chances of survival. This process allows the bacteria to produce diverse progeny, which is essential for dispersal and adaptation to new environments.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalMicrobial Ecology·DateJun 2, 2009

Study: Indirect transmission can trigger influenza outbreaks in birds

Researchers created a first-ever model that takes into account both direct and indirect transmission of avian influenza viruses among birds. The model reveals that environmental transmission can trigger outbreaks, even when no infected birds are present.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 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.

Study: Benefit to women not enough to sway men to get HPV vaccine

A recent Florida State University study found that informing men about the HPV vaccine's benefit for their female partners did not increase their interest in getting the vaccine. The researchers suggest that men may need more direct information on the vaccine's benefits for their own health to consider vaccination.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateJun 2, 2009

UF study finds ancient mammals shifted diets as climate changed

Researchers found that interglacial warming resulted in dramatic changes to the diets of animal groups, with some becoming mixed feeders that grazed on grasses. The study highlights the importance of the fossil record in understanding long-term ecological responses to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2009

Cruel and inhuman treatment causes more mental damage than physical torture

New research published by King's College London reveals that experiencing 'cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment' (CIDT) is associated with higher rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than physical torture. Survivors reported an average of 21 stressor events during detention or captivity, highlighting the severity of CIDT.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Orthopsychiatry·DateJun 2, 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.

UF study finds that ancient mammals shifted diets as climate changed

Researchers analyzed fossil teeth from two sites in Florida representing different climates and found dramatic changes in mammalian diets during interglacial periods. The study suggests that climate-driven environmental changes can lead to shifts in animal groups' dietary niches, complicating future modeling of mammal distributions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 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.

Out-of-pocket health-care costs rise for workers with employer coverage

A study by NORC and Watson Wyatt Worldwide finds rising rates of underinsurance and unaffordability among workers with employer-sponsored health insurance, particularly those with chronic conditions. The average OOP cost for medical services increased from $545 in 2004 to $729 in 2007.

SourceCommonwealth Fund·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 2, 2009

Tulane receives grant to study limb regeneration

Researchers aim to identify genetic signals for regeneration in salamanders, a model for human limb growth, with the goal of developing therapies to enhance regenerative response. The team hopes to create a comprehensive database of genes involved in regeneration to inform how to coordinate complex structures in humans.

SourceTulane University·DateJun 2, 2009

Surgery in patients with RA is often 'too little, too late'

A new study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reveals that surgical intervention is beneficial for RA patients with severe hand deformities. Researchers found positive self-reported outcomes and statistically significant improvement in both early and late-stage patients after reconstruction.

SourceAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJun 2, 2009

The Aerospace Corp. nanosatellite tests the latest generation of solar cells

The Aerospace Corporation successfully tested the latest generation of high-efficiency solar cells on a 6.4kg nanosatellite, transmitting 17MB of data during its 110-day mission. The satellite's performance was characterized as successful, with improved communication links and valuable insights into solar cell degradation.

SourceThe Aerospace Corporation·DateJun 2, 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.

Magnetic tornadoes could liberate Mercury's tenuous atmosphere

Scientists have discovered magnetic tornadoes on Mercury that could be replenishing its extremely thin atmosphere. These 'tornadoes' form when magnetic fields carried by the solar wind connect to Mercury's magnetic field, twisting into vortex-like structures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2009

Researchers engineer metabolic pathway in mice to prevent diet-induced obesity

Scientists successfully constructed a non-native pathway in mice that increased fatty acid metabolism and resulted in resistance to diet-induced obesity. The glyoxylate shunt, unique to plants and bacteria, was introduced into the mitochondria of liver cells to create an additional pathway for converting fatty acid into carbon dioxide.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 2, 2009

Advances being made in the treatment of hepatitis

Two new studies present promising findings for hepatitis treatments, including a switch to Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) for patients with persistent viral replication. The study also explores the long-term effects of Interferon Based Therapy on Hepatic Histology in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus, showing improved histol...

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateJun 2, 2009

Exercise more, not less, to ease aching back

A University of Alberta study found that exercising four days a week provides the greatest amount of pain relief and quality of life for individuals with chronic lower-back pain. Regular exercise reduces pain by 28% and disability by 36%, while less frequent exercise has minimal impact.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateJun 2, 2009

Skin lesion leads to more cancer types than once believed

Researchers found actinic keratoses can lead to squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma, with two-thirds of patients tracing their cancers back to the lesions. The study also showed that actinic keratoses come and go, making prevention crucial.

SourceBrown University·JournalCancer·DateJun 2, 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.

NOTES advances suggest promising future for scarless surgery

Researchers present latest advances in Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES), eliminating incisions and reducing recovery time. Studies show promising results for procedures like cholecystectomy, appendectomy, and gastrectomy with fewer complications.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateJun 2, 2009

While you were sleeping

Research from University of New South Wales found that snoring associated with sleep apnoea can impair brain function similar to a severe stroke or death. The study analyzed brain biochemistry in real-time, revealing significant effects on the brain's bioenergetic status during oxygen desaturation.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateJun 2, 2009

Women may not be so picky after all about choosing a mate

New research finds that women are not more choosy than men when it comes to selecting a romantic partner. In fact, the study suggests that physical actions like approaching a potential date can increase desire and interest in that person. The researchers believe that confidence plays a role in this effect.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 2, 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.

Could standard treatment for traumatic brain injury be wrong?

Researchers at UCLA's Brain Injury Research Center are re-examining the standard treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI), suggesting that fueling the brain with glucose may not be the best approach. Instead, they propose using alternative compounds like pyruvate and beta-hydroxybutyrate to optimize recovery.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateJun 2, 2009

First heart patients implanted with next-generation mechanical heart pump

The DuraHeart system is designed for severe left-ventricular heart failure, helping patients sustain life while awaiting a heart transplant. The device, developed by Terumo Heart Inc., has been successfully implanted in three US patients.

SourceNew York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2009
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.

Ethanol production could jeopardize soil productivity

Crop residues are crucial for sustaining soil organic matter, but extensive removal for ethanol production can impact soil productivity. Research suggests that straw removal rates should be limited to less than 66% and no more than 40% of aboveground residues removed.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJun 2, 2009

Vision impairment costs billions lost in productivity

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health estimates that nearly 158 million people globally suffer from vision impairment due to uncorrected refractive error. This results in approximately $269 billion in productivity loss each year, with the Western Pacific region being the most affected.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateJun 2, 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.

Scientists map penguins from space

Scientists have successfully mapped emperor penguin breeding colonies in Antarctica using satellite images, providing a reliable indication of their location through visible guano stains. The study identified 38 colonies, with 10 new discoveries, and will enable researchers to monitor population changes over time.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJun 2, 2009

Semen quality depends upon antioxidants

A new study by researchers at the University of Murcia found that men who consume more fruits and vegetables have better semen quality. The study, which analyzed data from 61 men, showed that higher antioxidant intake is associated with improved sperm concentration parameters.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJun 2, 2009

Calculating preventative medicine's return on investment

A new calculator tool has been developed by Harvard Medical School researchers to measure the value of preventative medicine services. The Family Van program, a mobile health clinic in Boston, was used as a test case, and found that long-term investments will return $36 for every dollar spent.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJun 2, 2009

Scientists use bed bugs' own chemistry against them

Researchers found that combining bed bugs' alarm pheromones with desiccant dusts made treatment more effective at killing the bugs. The blend of two pheromones applied in concert with a silica gel desiccant dust proved to be the most lethal combination.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJun 2, 2009
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.

More costly private model of foster care could save $6.3 billion in long term

A new study suggests that a more intensive private foster care model, like the Casey Family Programs, can lead to significant cost savings of up to $6.3 billion over the long term. The program's focus on education, mentorship, and support leads to improved outcomes, including higher future earnings and lower medical care costs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateJun 2, 2009

Revolutionizing the diagnosis of serious disease

Researchers at the University of Nottingham are developing revolutionary ultrasonic nanotechnology that can image individual cells. This technique could help diagnose serious illnesses such as some cancers by providing detailed insights into cell structure and function.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateJun 2, 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.

Why dishing does you good: U-M study

A University of Michigan study identified a likely reason why dishing with a girlfriend does wonders for a woman's mood: increased levels of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone, linked to social bonding, boosted well-being and reduced anxiety in women who engaged in emotionally close tasks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateJun 2, 2009

Scientists create metal that pumps liquid uphill

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a metal slab that can lift liquids using capillary action, moving them at speeds faster than nature. The metal's surface structure can be controlled to direct liquid flow or even create hydrophobic surfaces that prevent germ growth.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 2, 2009

Aluminum-oxide nanopore beats other materials for DNA analysis

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a new solid-state nanopore sensor made from aluminum oxide, exhibiting superior mechanical properties and noise performance. The sensor can detect single molecules with signal-to-noise comparable to other technologies, opening doors for personalized medicine and advanced diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 2, 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.

Cell phone ringtones can pose major distraction, impair recall

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis found that cell phone ringtones can be distracting in classrooms, impairing recall and learning. Students who experienced ringing phones performed 25% worse on course content tests, even after the ringtone had stopped.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateJun 2, 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.

World first: Chinese scientists create pig stem cells

Researchers have successfully created pig stem cells using somatic cells from pigs with hooves, opening doors to creating models for human genetic diseases and developing resistant pigs. The discovery has far-reaching implications for animal and human health.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalJournal of Molecular Cell Biology·DateJun 2, 2009

GEN reports on efforts to quickly develop swine flu vaccine

Several companies, including Replikins and Novavax, are working on H1N1 vaccines with varying approaches. The need for a vaccine was prompted by the World Health Organization's Phase 5 pandemic alert.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Engineering & Biotechnology News·DateJun 2, 2009

Researchers call for new space headache category following astronauts' survey

A recent study of 17 astronauts found that more than three-quarters had no connection between space motion sickness and their headaches, leading researchers to call for a new secondary disorder classification. The study discovered that space headache is a common and often isolated disabling complaint during space flight.

SourceWiley·JournalCephalalgia·DateJun 2, 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.

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.