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Science News for November 19, 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.

Causative gene of a rare disorder discovered by sequencing only protein-coding regions of genome

Researchers at the University of Washington successfully used exome sequencing to identify a previously unknown gene responsible for Miller syndrome, a mendelian disorder. This breakthrough study demonstrates the efficiency and potential of this strategy in discovering the genetic basis of rare diseases, which could lead to new therapies.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 19, 2009

Sweet -- sugared polymer a new weapon against allergies and asthma

Researchers developed sugar-coated polymer strands that selectively kill off cells involved in triggering aggressive allergy and asthma attacks. The treatment targets specific immune cells, showing promise as a new weapon against life-endangering conditions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateNov 19, 2009

Cigarettes harbor many pathogenic bacteria: Study

A new study found that cigarettes are contaminated with numerous human bacterial pathogens, including Acinetobacter, Bacillus, Burkholderia, Clostridium, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria may contribute to both infectious and chronic illnesses in smokers and secondhand smoke exposed individuals.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 19, 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.

Waking up memories while you sleep

Researchers found that sounds presented during naps could guide rehearsal of specific information, strengthening spatial memories. The study suggests that deep sleep is a key time for memory processing, challenging the idea that memories are only processed during REM sleep.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2009

Schizophrenia gene's role may be broader, more potent, than thought

A new study published in Science has found that a specific gene associated with schizophrenia plays a critical role in adaptive plasticity, the brain's ability to compensate for disruptions. The discovery suggests that impaired adaptive plasticity may contribute to the development or progression of schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2009

BoarCroc, RatCroc, DogCroc, DuckCroc and PancakeCroc

Five ancient crocs, including BoarCroc and DuckCroc, have been discovered in the Sahara with unique features such as armored snouts and broad forebrains. The discovery provides insight into a previously unknown world of crocodilians that inhabited Gondwana 100 million years ago.

SourceNational Geographic Society·JournalZooKeys·DateNov 19, 2009

Surgery not linked to memory problems in older patients

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine studied 575 patients who underwent surgery and found no evidence of long-term cognitive decline. The study suggests that if older adults physically recover from surgery, they will return to their previous level of cognitive ability within six months or a year.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAnesthesiology·DateNov 19, 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.

Search engines are source of learning

Researchers found search engines are used for fact-checking and supporting higher-level information needs, revealing a more complex role in learning. Their study suggests design improvements for search engines can better address users' cognitive and affective aspects.

SourcePenn State·JournalInformation Processing & Management·DateNov 19, 2009

Active hearing process in mosquitoes

A mathematical model explains how male mosquitoes can hear the faintest beats of a female's wings while resisting loud noises. The model reveals that scolopidia located toward the tip of Johnston's organ contribute to mechanical amplification.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 19, 2009

WPI researchers take aim at hard-to-treat fungal infections

A team of researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute has developed a new model system to study fungal infections. The system can be used to identify promising targets for anti-fungal drugs, potentially leading to effective treatments for conditions like thrush and athlete's foot.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalEukaryotic Cell·DateNov 19, 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.

After mastodons and mammoths, a transformed landscape

A study led by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers reveals that the decline of iconic ice age animals like mammoths and mastodons preceded a dramatic shift in North America's plant communities, fueled by wildfires. The research sheds light on the dynamics of extinction and its impact on landscapes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2009

PLoS Genetics 2009 maize genome collection

The PLoS Genetics special collection presents groundbreaking research on maize genome architecture, revealing new insights into centromeres, transposons, microRNAs, and more. The studies also explore the role of copy number variation and presence/absence variation in shaping maize phenotypes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 19, 2009

Scientists unlock clues for tailoring corn plant for food, energy needs

Researchers have discovered genetic clues that enable scientists to tailor corn plants for specific traits, such as high protein content for human consumption or high glucose content for biomass fuel. The findings could lead to higher yield or improved quality crops with reduced environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 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.

Braking news

Researchers found that car brake particles can cause cellular stress and inflammation in lung cells, particularly with heavy braking. Brake wear particles contain metals like iron and copper, which can damage cell junctions through oxidative stress.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalParticle and Fibre Toxicology·DateNov 19, 2009

Treating alcohol-use disorders and tuberculosis together

A new trial study in Tomsk, Russia aims to integrate alcohol screening, treatment and referral into routine tuberculosis care. The study assesses the feasibility of delivering pharmacotherapy and behavioral treatments for alcohol use disorders alongside TB treatment, with promising results.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateNov 19, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers find new piece of BSE puzzle

A new treatment route for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and its human form Creutzfeldt Jakob disease (CJD) may be closer based on new findings from the University of Leeds. Glypican-1 has been shown to cause abnormal prion proteins to rise, and reducing levels in infected cells can lower their levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 19, 2009

Sweet corn story begins in UW-Madison lab

The maize genome is a complex sequence of DNA that has been analyzed using a unique optical mapping facility at UW-Madison. The research advances knowledge of corn's ancestry and guides breeders in extracting increased productivity from the crop.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2009

USC study to evaluate robots as exercise trainers

Researchers at USC's CRES are evaluating robots as exercise coaches for adults of all ages, particularly the elderly. The study examines how physical presence affects robotic exercise motivation in older subjects.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateNov 19, 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.

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.

An atomic-level look at an HIV accomplice

Scientists at the University of Michigan have determined the atomic-level structure of a SEVI precursor and found it damages cell membranes to make them more vulnerable to HIV infection. The study provides insights into how SEVI interacts with cell membranes, which may help in developing new treatments for AIDS.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 19, 2009

Ancestry attracts, but love is blind

Research published in Genome Biology found that Mexicans prioritize partners with Native American and European ancestry, while Puerto Ricans prefer those with African and European heritage. Ancestry has a stronger influence on romance than previously thought, with non-random associations of genes across generations.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateNov 19, 2009

Should Ann Veneman serve a second term as head of UNICEF?

Ann Veneman's leadership at UNICEF has sparked a debate about her potential second term, with some praising her focus on child survival while others criticize her lack of field experience. The Lancet editor Dr. Richard Horton calls for a transparent, merit-based appointment process to select the next Executive Director.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 19, 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.

Rich ore deposits linked to ancient atmosphere

Geochemists discovered that ancient nickel ore deposits were formed by sulfur in the anoxic oxygen-poor atmosphere billions of years ago. Sulfur atoms traveled from volcanic eruptions, atmosphere, seawater, and hot springs to form the ores.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 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.

ICT fails to accelerate drug approvals

A statistical analysis found that FDA review intervals for new drugs remained unchanged from 1997 to 2006, despite increased investment in information technology. The study analyzed data on three main categories of new drugs and found no statistically significant reduction in review times.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Healthcare·DateNov 19, 2009

Amaizing: Corn genome decoded

The completed corn genome, published in Science, contains 32,000 genes and will aid in breeding high-yield crops. The sequence, a significant achievement after years of research, offers insights into plant genetics and opens new avenues for crop improvement.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2009

Women can quit smoking and control weight gain

A new meta-analysis shows that women who quit smoking and receive treatment for weight control are more successful at controlling their weight gain and quitting cigarettes. This finding disproves current clinical guidelines that recommend trying to diet while quitting smoking simultaneously.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAddiction·DateNov 19, 2009

New research into the mechanisms of gene regulation

A team of scientists led by Ross Hardison has made significant discoveries about the mechanisms of gene regulation in red blood cells. They found that transcription factor GATA-1 controls the expression of over 2,600 genes by binding to specific sites on DNA.

SourcePenn State·JournalGenome Research·DateNov 19, 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.

Laser therapy can aggravate skin cancer

Researchers discovered that high-dose laser therapy stimulates melanoma tumor growth and histological alterations in mouse models. This finding underscores the need for caution when using laser therapy for skin cancer treatment.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Cancer·DateNov 19, 2009

Mysteriously warm times in Antarctica

A new study of Antarctica's past climate suggests that temperatures during interglacial periods may have been up to 6°C warmer than the present day. This finding could help understand rapid Antarctic climate changes and their connection to greenhouse gases.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature·DateNov 19, 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.

Scientists at UA, collaborating institutions decode maize genome

Researchers from UA and collaborating institutions deciphered the complete genetic code of maize, providing a comprehensive foundation to systematically study maize biology. The achievement aims to breed higher yielding, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant cultivars.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2009

Unknowlingly consuming endangered tuna

A genetic tool used to identify species in seafood has found that nearly a quarter of what was labeled as tuna on sushi menus contained bluefin or escolar, two highly endangered species. The research highlights the need for clearer labeling and regulation to prevent economic fraud and protect endangered populations.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 19, 2009

On the crest of wave energy

Researchers apply aerospace principles to create a durable and efficient wave-energy system that can be placed anywhere in the ocean. The system effectively cancels incoming waves, capturing their energy while flattening them out.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateNov 19, 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.

Why can't some people give up cocaine?

A new study reveals that a high score on the 'scale of craving' and an antisocial personality type are major contributors to relapse in cocaine users. The researchers analyzed 38 patients seeking treatment for cocaine abuse, finding impulsiveness and desire for new sensations also linked to substance use.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBehavioral Psychology/Psicología Conductual·DateNov 19, 2009

First reconstitution of an epidermis from human embryonic stem cells

Researchers at I-STEM Institute have made significant breakthrough in stem cell research by recreating a whole epidermis from human embryonic stem cells. The goal is to provide an unlimited resource of cells as an alternative treatment for victims of third-degree burns and patients with genetic diseases affecting the skin.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 19, 2009

Shifting blame is socially contagious

A new study found that publicly blaming others increases the likelihood of spreading blame, as individuals try to protect their egos. Blame creates a culture of fear, leading to negative outcomes in organizations.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateNov 19, 2009

Engineer designs micro-endoscope to seek out early signs of cancer

A University of Florida researcher is developing a micro-endoscope that can inspect tissues beneath the surface, revealing abnormal cell groups or growth patterns before they form tumors. This technology has shown promising results in laboratory tests and could allow for earlier detection and more precise tumor removal.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateNov 19, 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.

Bone implant offers hope for skull deformities

A synthetic bone matrix offers hope for babies born with craniosynostosis by replacing fused bones and encouraging natural bone healing. The biodegradable implant could eliminate the need for multiple surgeries, resulting in improved developmental outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateNov 19, 2009

Sleep apnea may cause heart disease in kidney transplant patients

A new study reveals that sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke in kidney transplant patients. The condition was found to be present in one in four individuals and more than doubled the risk of cardiovascular complications.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 19, 2009

New maize map to aid plant breeding efforts

A new gene map has been developed to aid plant breeding efforts in maize, a major source of food and fuel worldwide. The map charts genetic diversity and recombination across the genome of 27 inbred lines, providing insights into complex traits.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 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.

Spanish biotechnology should focus on food and plant sectors to be more competitive

The Spanish biotechnology industry should focus on the food and plant sectors to remain competitive. However, a study found that these sectors have less clout than English-speaking countries due to limited research and development investment. The sector's growth is hindered by high costs of developing new medicines.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalTechnology Analysis and Strategic Management·DateNov 19, 2009

Many pregnant women avoid HIV screening in Africa

A recent study found that only 60% of pregnant women in Eastern and Southern Africa were tested for HIV in 2007. The authors suggest that women may be avoiding testing due to opt-out policies or concerns about the stigma associated with HIV. This highlights the need for increased awareness and access to HIV screening in these regions.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalAIDS·DateNov 19, 2009

Nanotube defects equal better energy and storage systems

Artificially introducing defects in nanotubes can enhance the development of supercapacitors, which combine the advantages of batteries and electrostatic capacitors. The researchers found that defects create additional charge sites, increasing stored charge capacity and power density.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 19, 2009

Milestone biodefense publication by Elsevier journal Vaccine

The Elsevier journal Vaccine has released a supplement dedicated to vaccines for biodefense, showcasing significant advancements in vaccine development against diverse human and veterinary pathogens. The publication acknowledges the shift from traditional military focus to protecting both civilian and military populations.

SourceElsevier·JournalVaccine·DateNov 19, 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.

Drug studied as possible treatment for spinal injuries

Researchers have discovered a compound that prevents short circuits caused by damaged nerves, restoring function and transmitting signals more efficiently. The experimental drug, 4-aminopyridine-3-methyl hydroxide, may also be used to treat multiple sclerosis.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateNov 19, 2009

UCSB physicists move 1 step closer to quantum computing

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have demonstrated electrically manipulating quantum states of electrons in diamond crystals, a step towards developing quantum computers. The achievement enables the creation of magnetic fields large enough to change an atomic-scale defect's quantum state in under one billionth of a second.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2009

A mobile phone or an MP3 player tells if you're sleeping soundly

A new home screening method for sleep disorders has been developed using a mobile phone or MP3 player, allowing people to record their sleep and analyze it at home. The method uses microphones to detect abnormal sleep structures and can provide significant medical breakthroughs, highlighting the importance of sleep quality and diagnosis.

SourceTampere University of Technology·DateNov 19, 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.

Building the smart home wirelessly

A proposed wireless smart home system integrates RFID technology with Open Service Gateway Initiative (OSGi) to enable video monitoring and media access throughout the household or remotely. This allows users to check on devices, security alarms, and children's activities while away from home.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Internet Protocol Technology·DateNov 19, 2009

Common plastics chemicals linked to ADHD symptoms

A study published in Biological Psychiatry found a significant positive association between phthalate exposure and ADHD symptoms in school-aged children. The researchers measured urine phthalate concentrations and evaluated symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using teacher-reported symptoms and computerized tests.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateNov 19, 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.

New findings suggest strategy to help generate HIV-neutralizing antibodies

Scientists discover that antibodies must precisely target the gp120 site of initial attachment on the viral spike to neutralize HIV. The new findings suggest a potential strategy for generating effective HIV-neutralizing antibodies, which could bring researchers closer to creating an HIV vaccine.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 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.