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Science News for March 12, 2009


Cracking the spatial memory code

Scientists have discovered that the hippocampus works in a structured and predictable way, enabling them to predict where someone is standing within a virtual reality room based on brain activity. The findings offer compelling evidence for mindreading and could potentially decode individual episodic memory traces from human brain imaging.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 12, 2009

Work stress associated with adverse mental and physical health outcomes in police officers

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that work stress among urban police officers is significantly associated with adverse mental and physical health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and intimate partner abuse. The study identified five major categories of stressors, including exposure to criti...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateMar 12, 2009

Researchers progress toward AIDS vaccine

Researchers at Rutgers University have made significant progress in developing an HIV vaccine by identifying a crucial part of the virus that is common to most varieties. They created a method to immunize animals with this target, resulting in antibodies that can stop a diverse set of HIV isolates.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMar 12, 2009

Ralph J. Archuleta wins top honor in seismology

Archuleta's research challenged long-held beliefs and prompted new research, leading to a better understanding of earthquake physics and hazards. He has also made significant contributions as a leader in the seismological community, including serving as president of the Seismological Society of America.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateMar 12, 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.

Studying the female form

Researchers developed a technique to extract body shape components from 3D data, classifying trunk shapes into five types. The study aims to improve clothing fit, comfort, and safety, with potential implications for body image disorders and ergonomics.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computer Applications in Technology·DateMar 12, 2009

Treatment of European coronary patients fails to meet standards of international guidelines

The third EUROASPIRE survey found that European coronary patients are failing to meet lifestyle, risk factor, and therapeutic targets set out in international guidelines. Key findings include high rates of smoking and obesity, as well as inadequate management of blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation·DateMar 12, 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.

'Fridges and washing machines liberated women': researcher

A new study by Professor Emanuela Cardia found that modern appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and electric stoves significantly changed the lives of women, enabling them to enter the workforce. Between 1940 and 1950, the percentage of married women with jobs increased from 5% to 51%, demonstrating the impact of household ...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateMar 12, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A diet rich in calcium aids weight loss

A 15-week weight loss program found that obese women who consumed less than 600mg of calcium per day lost nearly 6kg, compared to 1kg for those in the control group. Sufficient calcium intake stiffs desire to eat more, aiding weight loss success.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateMar 12, 2009

Radio series on women in science wins Gracie Award

A two-part radio project funded by NSF explores groundbreaking research and pioneers in STEM fields, aiming to increase girls and women in science. The series features stories from middle school-age girls about their favorite women in STEM and is recognized for its impact on science education for girls and women

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 12, 2009

Genetic differences help protect against cervical cancer

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that genetic differences in a gene called TAP can provide protection against high-grade Cervical Neoplasia, which is a premalignant condition caused by HPV.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 12, 2009

'Mind-reading' experiment highlights how brain records memories

Scientists have found that memories are recorded in the hippocampus with a specific structure, allowing for the prediction of spatial memories. This breakthrough challenges current scientific thinking and opens up possibilities for understanding how information is processed in the brain.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 12, 2009

Stem cell infusion and hyperbaric oxygen treatment improve islet function in diabetes

Researchers found significant benefits in glycemic control and reduced insulin requirements in patients with type 2 diabetes who received stem cell infusion and hyperbaric oxygen treatment. The combination therapy showed promising results in decreasing type 2 diabetes morbidity and mortality.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateMar 12, 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.

Researchers take first look at the genetic dynamics of inbreeding depression

Researchers found that a significant amount of inbreeding depression is due to key genes affecting other genes, particularly those involved in metabolism and stress. The study also identified distinct gene expression changes across different chromosome regions, suggesting a complex interplay between genetic mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalConservation Biology·DateMar 12, 2009

Missing piece of plant clock found

Biologists have identified a critical protein that links the morning and evening components of plant daily clocks, solving a longstanding puzzle about biochemical mechanisms controlling plant clocks. The discovery provides a new way to increase agricultural crop growth and yield.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 2009

'Mind-reading' experiment highlights how brain records memories

Researchers at Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging discovered that brain activity can be used to predict spatial memories and locations. The study's findings challenge current scientific thinking and offer insights into how memories are encoded across neurons.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 12, 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.

Weighing the options after life-altering stroke

Patients who undergo aggressive brain surgery after a severe stroke generally improve their lives and live longer, according to research by neurologists at the University of Rochester Medical Center. The study found that patients who didn't have the surgery were about three times more likely to die within a year than those who did.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateMar 12, 2009

Options for a new Britain: A report card for Britain

The report card evaluates Britain's performance in various areas, including science and technology, health, and the environment. It also explores potential policy options, such as slowing population growth and privatising the road network.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 12, 2009

First-in-class compound proves safe, tolerable in preventing blood clots

Researchers found a new drug derived from magnolia trees to be effective in preventing blood clots without causing excessive bleeding. The Phase II study showed that the compound was generally well-tolerated and did not increase bleeding risk, even when taken with standard anti-clotting medications.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 12, 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.

Rabies deaths from dog bites could be eliminated

A team of scientists from McMaster University and around the world analyzed rabies transmission data and found evidence for low levels of transmission, suggesting that elimination of canine rabies is a realistic goal. Achieving vaccination coverage of 60% or more in dog populations in Africa would be feasible through annual campaigns.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 12, 2009

Well-known enzyme is unexpected contributor to brain growth

A team of researchers has discovered that the enzyme AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is crucial for the survival of neural stem cells that produce new brain cells. This finding opens up new avenues for improving brain function and health by modifying AMPK activity.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 12, 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.

Multiple route bone marrow stem cell injections show promise to treat spinal cord injury

Researchers reported on eight patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) who received multiple route bone marrow stem cell injections, showing functional improvements such as bladder control. The study demonstrated the safety and feasibility of multiple route administration of bone marrow-derived stem cells for SCI treatment.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateMar 12, 2009

A sustainable water supply for Brasilia

The IWAS Àgua DF project aims to develop a water management concept for Brasilia, addressing the city's growing population and climate change challenges. By integrating technical solutions with improved policy approaches, the project seeks to ensure a sustainable water supply for millions of inhabitants.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateMar 12, 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.

Researchers develop a structural approach to exploring DNA

Researchers developed a topographical approach to explore DNA's three-dimensional structure to uncover functional non-coding regions in the human genome. The study found that 12% of the human genome is constrained by evolution, correlating with functional non-coding elements better than sequence analysis alone.

SourceBoston University·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 2009

A walk through Gaelic history and culture

The article discusses a new book by Joseph Murphy that weaves together Gaelic history, culture, and language with sustainable development and walking. The book tells the story of a 1500 km walk along the Atlantic coast from Ireland to Scotland, combining local experiences with broader themes.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateMar 12, 2009

Researchers devise new way to explore DNA

Researchers have devised a novel method to identify functional elements in non-coding DNA by surveying the landscape of DNA structure. This topographical approach reveals that about 12% of non-coding DNA appears functionally important, twice as much as detected using sequence comparison.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 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.

AGU journal highlights -- March 12, 2009

Researchers investigated coral skeleton formation and found systematic compositional variations, complicating paleoenvironmental change proxies. Meanwhile, a study on Venus' vortices revealed similarities with terrestrial hurricanes, potentially aiding atmospheric superrotation understanding.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 12, 2009

Physicists offer new theory for iron compounds

Researchers propose a theoretical framework to explain the complex quantum behavior of iron pnictides, a class of high-temperature superconductors. The theory predicts specific changes in electron-electron interactions and phase transitions, opening up new avenues for studying quantum criticality.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 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.

Survey explores medical care for children with autism using complementary alternative medicine

A national survey found primary care physicians are more likely to inquire about complementary alternative medicine (CAM) use in children with autism. The study also revealed a desire for specific CAM education tailored to this population. CAM therapies have become increasingly common among children with autism, highlighting the need f...

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateMar 12, 2009

Not enough vitamin D in the diet could mean too much fat on adolescents

A study found that teens with lower vitamin D intakes had higher body fat and visceral fat percentages, while those with adequate intake had lower body fat and visceral fat. Researchers suggest that encouraging teens to consume enough vitamin D through diet or supplements may promote a healthy body as they grow and develop.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMar 12, 2009

Children living near green spaces are more active

Researchers found that children at high risk of obesity who live near parks are more likely to participate in walking activities. Parks within a half mile of their home showed the strongest association with girls walking to school and boys engaging in leisure walking, increasing by 60% for each additional park. The study suggests that ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 12, 2009
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

'Peking Man' older than thought; somehow adapted to cold

A new dating method has found Peking Man to be around 680,000-780,000 years old, pushing back its age by 200,000 years. The site's analysis revealed evidence that Homo erectus had adapted to the cold environment of a mild glacial period.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature·DateMar 12, 2009

Recipe for the perfect James Webb Space Telescope mirror

The James Webb Space Telescope's mirrors are made of beryllium, a light metal that withstands extreme temperatures and is highly reflective. The 18 hexagonal mirror segments will allow the telescope to see galaxies from 13 billion light-years away.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 12, 2009

Tracking tigers in 3-D

Researchers use new software to rapidly identify individual tigers and estimate populations by matching unique stripe patterns from camera trap photos. The software is up to 95% accurate in identifying tiger species from scanned photos, aiding tiger conservation efforts.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalBiology Letters·DateMar 12, 2009

Telehealth for diabetes promotes aging at home, not in the hospital

A study of 387 diabetics found that home telemonitoring significantly reduced deaths compared to a non-monitored group. Telehealth provided a safety net, allowing patients to age in place and live where they wanted, with educational resources also being offered.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Telemedicine and Telecare·DateMar 12, 2009

Major NSF grant boosts UNH research on hormonal genomics

A new four-year grant will support research on brain and pituitary hormones in sea lampreys to better understand their reproductive systems. The project aims to identify common functional features between these ancient vertebrates and later-evolved species.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateMar 12, 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.

Wind shifts may stir CO2 from Antarctic depths

A team of scientists suggests that shifting winds in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica may have triggered a rapid increase in carbon dioxide levels at the end of the last ice age. This mechanism could amplify manmade warming and has been supported by sediment core analysis, but other climate models disagree.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 2009

Biofilms: Even stickier than suspected

Bacteria in biofilms evolve to become more resilient with age, resisting antibiotics and outcompeting younger cells. This study provides evidence of natural selection in a single species bacterial biofilm, offering insights into the emergence of dominant microbial populations.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalFEMS Microbiology Letters·DateMar 12, 2009

New aerosol observing technique turns gray skies to blue

A new detection technique using polarized light helps accurately measure aerosol composition, size, and global distribution. The Aerosol Polarimetry Sensor instrument measures aerosols over land, providing greater accuracy compared to previous methods.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 12, 2009

Bioabsorbable stent safe and effective after 2 years

The study found that the bioabsorbable stent was safe with only one major adverse event recorded at 2 years, a heart attack, and no new events between 6 months and 2 years. The device had been fully absorbed by 2 years, reducing the chance of restenosis.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 12, 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.

First high-resolution images of bone, tooth and shell formation

Researchers used a special electron microscope to make three-dimensional images of nano-particles that form the basis of bone, tooth and shell growth. The results provide improved understanding of these processes and promise better materials for industrial applications.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 2009

Cells get two chances, not just one, to fix their mistakes

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that cells have a second chance to correct errors in protein production, which could lead to new insights into neurodegenerative disorders and the development of targeted antibiotics. This discovery gives scientists a better understanding of the mechanism behind protein synthesis mistakes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 12, 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.

Miaki Ishii honored with Richter Early Career Award

Miaki Ishii has made two groundbreaking discoveries in geophysics that have fostered intense debate and subsequent research on deep Earth seismology. Her work challenged the long-held theory of a homogenized mantle, revealing lateral variations in mantle density instead.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateMar 12, 2009

Body clock regulates metabolism, finds UCI study

Researchers at UCI have found that circadian rhythms regulate energy levels in cells, with implications for treating diseases like cancer, diabetes, and obesity. The discovery opens a new window into understanding how the body's day-night patterns and metabolism work together to maintain cellular function.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 2009

Unraveling the roots of dyslexia

A study published in Current Biology found that people with dyslexia have a different brain activation pattern when integrating letters with speech sounds. This neural deficit may distinguish poor from good readers and offer a promising link to phonology processing difficulties.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 12, 2009

A new measure for the malignancy of melanoma

Researchers discovered a correlation between Ang2 concentrations in blood samples and disease progression in metastatic malignant melanoma. Higher Ang2 levels were associated with larger tumors and more advanced disease stages.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 12, 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.

UF study: Preserved shark fossil adds evidence to great white's origins

A University of Florida study has resolved a long-standing debate in shark paleontology by concluding that modern great whites evolved from the broad-toothed mako shark. The preserved fossil, dating back 4-5 million years, features a complete jaw with intact teeth and vertebrae.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateMar 12, 2009