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Science News for March 17, 2009


Big and small dents

The GOCE satellite will study global ocean currents, ocean topography, and the structure of the Earth's crust with unprecedented precision. The satellite's high-resolution gravity mapping will enhance our understanding of climate change.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateMar 17, 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.

Lior Shapira to receive IADR Basic Research in Periodontal Disease Award

Dr. Lior Shapira has received the IADR Basic Research in Periodontal Disease Award for his groundbreaking work on the mechanisms of inflammatory responses in periodontitis. He has published over 100 scientific articles and chapters, and continues to serve as a prominent figure in the field.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Frankincense oil -- a wise man's remedy for bladder cancer

Researchers found frankincense oil to discriminate between normal and cancerous bladder cells, kill cancer cells, and suppress growth by arresting cell cycle progression. The oil may represent an inexpensive alternative therapy for patients with bladder cancer.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateMar 17, 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.

Grand prizes might help induce sports 'hot streaks'

A forthcoming study by North Carolina State University economists found that players who perform well early in the season have an incentive to maintain their high level of performance into the middle part of the season. This is because they are competing for a top-30 finish and a spot in the Tour Championship, which guarantees them mon...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Sports Economics·DateMar 17, 2009

Early detection of second breast cancers halves women's risk of death

A recent study found that early detection of second breast cancers in women who have already had the disease can significantly improve their chances of survival. The research revealed that mammography was more sensitive than clinical examination for detecting second cancers, with a sensitivity of 86%. Early detection at an asymptomatic...

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateMar 17, 2009

Regulatory molecule for tumor formation or suppression identified by Singapore, US researchers

Researchers at Singapore's Genome Institute of Singapore and the US have identified microRNA-125b as a novel regulator of the p53 tumor suppressor gene. The study found that this microRNA keeps p53 levels low during embryonic development, but allows for an increase in p53 to prevent tumor formation if DNA is damaged. Elevated levels of...

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 17, 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.

Love at first aria

Researchers discover that opera fans learn to appreciate the art form by forming emotional connections and decoding its meaning. Through social interaction and personal experience, fans develop a deeper understanding of opera's nuances, ultimately becoming passionate advocates for the art.

SourceSpringer·JournalQualitative Sociology·DateMar 17, 2009

IADR Oral Medicine and Pathology Research Award presented to UCLA professor

Dr. Cun-Yu Wang is recognized for his groundbreaking research in cancer therapy and oral health, with a focus on molecular signaling, inflammation, and adult human stem cells. He joins an elite group of scientists honored by IADR for their contributions to advancing oral health knowledge worldwide.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Mighty diatoms: Global climate feedback from microscopic algae

Researchers found diatoms in freshwater and marine environments have distinct size patterns due to nutrient availability, with larger sizes thriving in oceans. Climate change could alter mixing depths and nutrient delivery, potentially reducing carbon sequestration efficiency.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.

UCSF professor to be presented with the IADR H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award

Dr. Jane Weintraub, a renowned oral epidemiologist, has been selected as the recipient of the International Association for Dental Research's H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award. She is being recognized for her groundbreaking research on children's oral health disparities and its impact on public health.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Study tracks increasing use of CT on pregnant women

A study found that imaging exams on pregnant women have more than doubled, with CT scans increasing by 25.3% annually due to growing radiation exposure concerns. The researchers evaluated 5,270 examinations and estimated fetal radiation exposure, highlighting the need for alternative imaging tests like MRI and ultrasound.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 17, 2009

London murders: Stats theory shows numbers are predictable

A recent report by Professor David Spiegelhalter suggests that London's murder numbers follow a predictable pattern, with certain aspects being statistically expected. The study found that the number of murders in London is not unusually high and has remained stable over the past five years.

SourceWiley·JournalSignificance·DateMar 17, 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.

Lung cancer: Molecular scissors determine therapy effectiveness

Researchers found that cetuximab's success in treating non-small cell lung cancer depends on the production of a specific protein called u-PAR. Higher levels of u-PAR indicate reduced responsiveness to the treatment, suggesting it could be used as a biomarker.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 17, 2009

NASA researchers find clues to a secret of life

Scientists have discovered more support for the idea that amino acids created in space contributed to the origin of left-handed based protein life on Earth. The research found a pattern of excess left-handed isovaline in meteorites, which suggests that water played a role in its creation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2009

Dr. Hunter receives IADR Biological Mineralization Award

Dr. Graeme Hunter, a renowned dental researcher, has received the 2009 Biological Mineralization Award from the International Association for Dental Research (IADR). His work focuses on the physical biochemistry of biomineralization, with significant contributions to understanding mineralized tissues and pathological calcifications.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Goodbye needle, hello smoothie

A researcher at Northwestern University has developed a new oral vaccine using probiotics that induces a powerful immune response, protecting against diseases such as anthrax and breast cancer. The vaccine harnesses the body's primary immune force in the small intestine, bypassing traditional injection methods.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

EAU launches new clinical guidelines for 2009 -- kidney cancer

The European Association of Urology has released new clinical guidelines for kidney cancer treatment, emphasizing the use of targeted agents and nephron-sparing surgery. The guidelines recommend first-line therapies for low- and intermediate-risk patients, as well as second-line options for high-risk patients.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 17, 2009

Alessandro Riva receives IADR Salivary Research Award

Professor Alessandro Riva, a leading expert in human exocrine glands, has made significant contributions to the understanding of salivary gland structure and function. He established benchmarks for the field through his published work, which includes numerous original observations and unique methods.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Superbug complicates treatment of infections in cystic fibrosis

The Burkholderia cepacia complex's ability to produce exopolysaccharide slime complicates cystic fibrosis treatment, as it can form biofilms that protect bacteria against antibiotics and natural defenses. This superbug's potential for causing serious infections may have been underestimated due to its lab-grown behavior.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobiology·DateMar 17, 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.

UCSF professor to receive IADR Pulp Biology and Regeneration Award

Dr. Pamela DenBesten, UCSF professor and chair of Pediatric Dentistry, is recognized for her significant contributions to pulp biology and regeneration research. Her studies on the role of matrix molecules in cellular signaling have highlighted key bio-active molecules in regenerative events.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Better by design: Engineering flu vaccines

Rice University scientists developed a computerized method to test flu vaccine efficacy against multiple strains, outperforming existing tests. The new approach may help create more effective vaccines for both seasonal and bird flu, improving global preparedness.

SourceRice University·DateMar 17, 2009

Strict labor market regulation increases global unemployment, study shows

A recent study by the University of Bath found that strict labor market regulation is associated with higher unemployment rates worldwide. The research analyzed data from 73 countries and discovered that relaxed regulations could have reduced unemployment in Italy by up to 5.6 percentage points among young people.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Comparative Economics·DateMar 17, 2009

Medication does not appear to reduce progression of atherosclerosis

A study published in JAMA found that pactimibe did not slow the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, but was associated with increased cardiovascular events. The treatment also led to significant increases in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 17, 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.

Stevens faculty release study on free-space optical communication in Optics Express

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have made significant breakthroughs in free-space optical communication by demonstrating a unique atmospheric effect called scavenging, which improves the system's performance in adverse weather conditions. The study shows that mid-infrared QCL systems can deliver up to 300% greater throug...

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 17, 2009

Lehigh researcher awarded $1.8 million NIH grant

The five-year grant will enable the researcher to further explore how inhibitory components influence sound localization circuitry in vertebrate systems. The study aims to develop a mechanistic understanding of sound localization circuitry that can contribute to clinical applications, such as improving cochlear implants.

SourceLehigh University·DateMar 17, 2009

New study shows that in horse play, adult-to-young ratio is key

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that the adult-to-young ratio plays a critical role in the social development of horses. The research revealed that groups with low adult-to-young ratios had younger horses exhibiting more aggression and forming tighter bonds with each other, potentially reducing their interaction with adults.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 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.

Brothers in arms

A joint study from Helmholtz-Centre and immunologists found that flu infection facilitates and intensifies pneumonia bacteria infections. Researchers discovered that lack of immune cells does not cause increased susceptibility to superinfections.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2009

Europe now has a scientific authority on CO2 storage

CO2 GeoNet, Europe's Network of Excellence, presents five years of research and development on geological carbon dioxide storage. The network aims to accelerate CCS deployment and build confidence in various CO2 storage technologies.

SourceBritish Geological Survey·DateMar 17, 2009

Engineer devises ways to improve gas mileage

A mechanical engineer at Washington University in St. Louis has developed techniques to reduce vehicle drag using active flow control technology, resulting in a 15-18% reduction in fuel consumption. The technology is being researched by airplane and automobile companies worldwide to play an important role in fuel conservation.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateMar 17, 2009

Carnegie Mellon researchers apply new statistical test

A new study by Carnegie Mellon researchers found that particulate matter in downtown Pittsburgh is more affected by major sources to the city's southeast than previously thought. The most polluted days often occur when winds are from the southeast, increasing PM levels above the National Air Quality Standard.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 17, 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.

Female mammals follow their noses to the right mates

Research suggests that female mammals use olfactory cues to select genetically dissimilar mates for healthier offspring. Mammals may prefer males with unique scents over those with parasites or dominant traits. This line of research reveals the importance of mammalian mate choice, challenging traditional assumptions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateMar 17, 2009

Researchers clone key sperm-binding proteins

Scientists at the University of Montreal and Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre have cloned human sperm-binding protein BSP, which may improve fertility treatments and male contraception. The researchers successfully purified the protein after decades of trying to isolate it from human sources.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalMolecular Human Reproduction·DateMar 17, 2009

Studies show that nice guys finish first in business world

A study by Dr. Jon Bohlmann at NC State University finds that project managers who treat team members with honesty, kindness, and respect see significant increases in commitment to the team's success. Another study shows that socializing with suppliers can lead to cost and quality benefits from informal social interactions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Product Innovation Management·DateMar 17, 2009

MicroRNA undermines tumor suppression

Researchers at Whitehead Institute and National University of Singapore have discovered a microRNA, miRNA-125b, that downregulates the tumor-suppressor gene p53. This finding provides new insights into cancer development and highlights the complex regulatory mechanisms controlling critical genes.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 17, 2009

Slimmer, stickier nanorods give boost to 3-D computer chips

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed slimmer copper nanorods that fuse together at 300 degrees Celsius, ideal for heat-sensitive nanoelectronics. This technique enables wafer bonding in 3-D computer chips with lower temperatures, resulting in less expensive and reliable devices.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNanotechnology·DateMar 17, 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.

Understanding mental illness through gene-environment interactions

Recent studies in epigenetics provide new understanding of how environmental factors influence brain function and behavior, potentially explaining the complex nature of mental illness. Epigenetic changes can be long-lived and influenced by life experiences, psychotropic drugs, and psychotherapy.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 17, 2009

Mo Kwan Kang receives the IADR Young Investigator Award

Dr. Mo Kwan Kang has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on the senescence process in human oral keratinocytes, aiming to understand health and disease of human oral mucosa. He has authored over 30 research articles and won several major research awards.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 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.

New tumor markers determine therapy intensity

Researchers have discovered new tumor markers that can accurately predict the course of disease and treatment response in childhood brain tumors. These markers, found in medulloblastoma DNA, can help adjust therapy intensity to reduce damage and secondary malignancies.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalClinical Oncology·DateMar 17, 2009

MRSA study suggests strategy shift needed to develop effective therapeutics

Researchers found that USA300 and its forefather USA500 are nearly identical in virulence and have similar levels of virulence gene production. They also discovered that alpha toxin and alpha-type phenol-soluble modulins play a crucial role in determining the severity of community-associated MRSA infection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2009

Elephant shark genome sequence leads to discovery of color perception in deep-sea fish

A research team from Singapore and London has discovered that the elephant shark, a primitive deep-sea fish, possesses three cone pigments for color vision similar to humans. The finding suggests that gene duplication played a crucial role in this process, which may provide valuable insights into human genome evolution.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Dr. King receives IADR Craniofacial Biology Research Award

Dr. Gregory King, a renowned researcher in craniofacial biology and orthodontics, has received the prestigious IADR Craniofacial Biology Research Award. The award recognizes his significant contributions to the field of bone biology and orthodontic tooth movement over a period of 30 years.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 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.

Researcher wins $2.6 million grant for depression care study

A Florida State University researcher is conducting a five-year study to change the approach companies take when purchasing mental health care benefits. The study aims to educate employers on how to choose effective mental health care products and promote long-term value over short-term cost savings.

SourceFlorida State University·DateMar 17, 2009

Study shows moderate intensity walking means 100 steps per minute

A study found that a rate of at least 100 steps per minute achieves moderate intensity activity, supporting a simple pedometer-based recommendation of 3000 steps in 30 minutes. The research suggests using a single and simple pedometer-based guideline for effective health communication.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 17, 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.

U of I study: When a violent marriage ends, is co-parenting possible?

A new University of Illinois study explores differences in co-parenting relationships between abusive ex-husbands and their children. Women who experienced intimate terrorism described fear and ongoing abuse after separation, while those with situational violence reported safe co-parenting relationships.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFamily Relations·DateMar 17, 2009

GEN reports on Madoff scandal's impact on the life sciences

The Madoff scandal has led to a shift away from risky investments, affecting endowment institutions and university research projects. Academic medical and bio-related research are tightening their belts as a result of the general economic situation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Engineering & Biotechnology News·DateMar 17, 2009

HPV vaccine may prevent preterm births

A new Norwegian study suggests that HPV vaccination can prevent up to 35-128 preterm births per 100,000 births by reducing the risk of surgical treatment after cervical cell changes. The vaccine may have an important impact on preventing extremely preterm births.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateMar 17, 2009

IADR Wilmer Souder Award presented to University of Colorado professor

Dr. Jeffrey Stansbury, a University of Colorado professor, has been awarded the IADR Wilmer Souder Award for his work on dental and biomedical polymeric materials. The award recognizes his research group's development of novel polymeric materials for various dental applications.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 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.

Brain abnormality found in boys with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Researchers discovered an abnormality in the brains of adolescent boys with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, particularly in the anterior cingulate cortex. This region normally activates when a reward stops, but in boys with ADHD, it fails to do so, leading to continued activation and impulsive behavior.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateMar 17, 2009

AADR is awarded $250,000 to fund Bloc Travel Grant

The American Association for Dental Research (AADR) has received a $250,000 award from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) to fund the Bloc Travel Grant program. The grant will support approximately 50 students and trainees attending IADR General Sessions & Exhibitions in various locations.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2009

Vitamin D may not be the answer to feeling SAD

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found no clear association between depressive symptoms and vitamin D levels in blood. The researchers tested over 3,000 participants and recruited community residents aged 50-70 from China, discovering low levels of vitamin D may not be connected to depression.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateMar 17, 2009

Geriatric Oral Research Award presented to Michael MacEntee

Dr. MacEntee's research has significantly impacted the field of geriatric oral research, focusing on topics such as biomaterials, clinical science, and epidemiology. His work has identified key concerns in oral health among elderly populations, including neglect of oral hygiene and the importance of psychosocial factors in determining ...

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 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.

Mechanism of Alzheimer's suggests combination therapy needed

Researchers have discovered a mode of action for mysterious protein snarls found in Alzheimer's patients, suggesting a combination therapy approach. The findings identify two proteins, amyloid beta and tau tangles, that wreak havoc on the nervous system, causing neural function loss and memory decline.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2009

New strategy to weaken traumatic memories

Researchers develop a novel approach to treating PTSD by selectively disrupting traumatic memories with a cortisol-blocking drug. The treatment's effectiveness is linked to the intensity of the initial trauma and can be administered shortly before recalling the memory.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 17, 2009