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Science News for September 17, 2009


Memories of the way they used to be

Scientists create induced pluripotent stem cells from human neural stem cells using a footprint-free methodology, retaining some gene expression of the original donor cells. The study reveals that these cells maintain a 'transcriptional signature' similar to human embryonic stem cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 17, 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.

Secrets of insect flight revealed

Scientists have cracked the code of insect flight, revealing complex wing designs that defy conventional aerodynamics. By studying locusts and developing a computer model, researchers gained insights into wing deformation and its impact on flight efficiency.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScience·DateSep 17, 2009

Weight loss is good for the kidneys

A study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that weight loss through diet and exercise can reduce proteinuria and slow down kidney function decline in obese patients with kidney disease. Surgical interventions also show promise in normalizing kidney filtration rates.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 17, 2009

Nullarbor fireball cameras find rare meteorite

A team of scientists used cameras to capture fireballs streaking across the night sky, calculating its orbit and asteroid origin. The rare achondrite meteorite is from the inner asteroid belt, providing valuable insights into the solar system's evolution.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalScience·DateSep 17, 2009

Majority of unintended incidents in the ER are caused by human error

A recent study published in BMC Emergency Medicine found that 60% of unintended incidents in the emergency department are caused by human failures. The majority of these events were attributed to departments outside the emergency department, such as laboratories.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Emergency Medicine·DateSep 17, 2009

How vital are toilets and hand hygiene for child growth?

Improving toilets and hand hygiene can reduce tropical enteropathy and lead to substantial decreases in stunting among children. Dr Jean Humphrey hypothesises that preventing faecal-oral transmission by providing safe disposal of stools and promoting handwashing with soap can normalise child growth.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 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.

New observations solve longstanding mystery of tipped stars

Researchers used high-resolution spectrograph to reveal unexpected tilt of up to 70 degrees from vertical in binary star DI Herculis. The discovery resolves longstanding mystery and sheds light on formation and evolution of binary stars, with implications for Einstein's theory of relativity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 17, 2009

Chemobrain -- the flip side of surviving cancer

A study published in Journal of Cancer Survivorship reveals that chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment, known as chemobrain, significantly diminishes women's quality of life. Women experience memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and reduced independence, affecting their work and social lives.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateSep 17, 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.

Face off

Researchers found that male juvenile delinquents often misinterpret facial expressions of disgust as anger, leading to a more intense emotional response and aggressive behavior. This bias towards misrecognizing others' emotions could result in delinquents perceiving situations as hostile.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalChild and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health·DateSep 17, 2009

A tiny tyrannosaur

A new species of tyrannosauroid dinosaur, Raptorex kriegsteini, has been discovered in China that predates the Tyrannosaurus rex by tens of millions of years. The fossil, which is only three meters long, exhibits the same physical traits as T. rex, including an oversized skull and powerful jaws.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateSep 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.

It pays to be careful post-kidney transplant

A new study found that extending preventive treatment for CMV infection post-kidney transplant reduces the risk of disease by nearly two-thirds. This approach also proves cost-effective, offsetting increased costs with reduced cases of CMV disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 17, 2009

Lessons for Obama in study of Bush efforts to 'frame' Iraq war

A new study from North Carolina State University found that the Bush administration's 'investment frame' strategy increased support for the Iraq War among supporters, but decreased tolerance among opponents. The study used a nationally representative sample to gauge public opinion in September 2006.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Conflict Resolution·DateSep 17, 2009

Genes controlling insulin can alter timing of biological clock

A new study has found that genes regulating insulin also alter the timing of the circadian clock, suggesting novel therapies for metabolic disease. Hundreds of genes were identified as affecting the clock's timing, with seven genes involved in insulin control also influencing its rhythms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 17, 2009

The wonders of wine

A German company developed a method to turn red wine by-products into a powder preserving natural nutrients like protein, B vitamins and polyphenols. The powder has been successfully tested in various products, including yoghurt drinks, ice-cream and skin creams.

SourceEUREKA·DateSep 17, 2009

New vitamin K analysis supports the triage theory

Researchers analyzed data from hundreds of published articles to test the triage theory, which suggests optimal intake levels for individual vitamins and minerals. The study found modest vitamin/mineral deficiencies are common and may contribute to age-related conditions.

SourceChildren's Hospital & Research Center Oakland·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateSep 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.

Strain on nanocrystals could yield colossal results

By applying strain to single-crystal vanadium oxide micro- and nanowires, researchers created phase inhomogeneity, a phenomenon critical to collective electronic behavior of correlated electron materials. This breakthrough could lead to designing and controlling phase inhomogeneity for future devices.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 17, 2009

Pediatric strokes more than twice as common as previously reported

Researchers found that pediatric strokes are significantly under-counted using traditional methods based on diagnostic codes, with a rate of 2.4 cases per 100,000 person-years. The study suggests that more prospective studies are needed to accurately capture the incidence and cost of pediatric stroke.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 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.

More to solar cycle than sunspots; sun also bombards Earth with high-speed streams of wind

Scientists have found that the number of sunspots provides an incomplete measure of changes in the Sun's impact on Earth over the course of the 11-year solar cycle. High-speed streams of wind from the Sun intensify the energy of Earth's outer radiation belt, posing hazards to satellites and space travelers.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateSep 17, 2009

U of C alumnus finds high numbers of heat-loving bacteria in cold Arctic Ocean

A team of scientists led by U of C grad Casey Hubert detected high numbers of thermophilic bacteria in subzero sediments in the Arctic Ocean. The bacteria may provide a unique opportunity to trace seepages of fluids from hot sub-seafloor habitats and potentially point towards undiscovered offshore petroleum reservoirs.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalScience·DateSep 17, 2009

Impact of renewable energy on our oceans must be investigated, say scientists

Marine renewable energy devices can boost local biodiversity and benefit marine environments by attracting marine organisms to man-made structures, creating 'artificial reefs'. However, such devices also pose negative environmental impacts from habitat loss, collision risks, noise, and electromagnetic fields.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateSep 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.

NASA's TRMM satellite sees heavy rainfall in Choi-Wan

The TRMM satellite captured heavy rainfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour in the center of the storm. Rainfall images are false-colored with yellow, green and red areas indicating rainfall between .78 to 1.57 inches per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 17, 2009

Regulatory role of key molecule discovered at Hebrew U.

Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover Lysyl-tRNA synthetase's regulatory role in gene expression, potentially leading to new therapies for diseases like AIDS and breast cancer. The molecule is also involved in viral replication and high levels have been observed in certain cancers.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 17, 2009

Killing cancer like a vampire slayer

A new Tel Aviv University drug carrier delivers existing life-saving therapies directly to cancer tumors, reversing growth and inhibiting tumor growth by 50%. The innovative formulation targets tumors without affecting normal healthy cells, offering a potential solution for various forms of cancers and diseases.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 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.

First images from Planck space telescope

The Planck space telescope has returned its first images of the sky, mapping tiny differences in microwave radiation left over from the Big Bang. This improved data will allow scientists to better understand the structure of the universe when it was about 400,000 years old and test theories about cosmic inflation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateSep 17, 2009

Relieving pain affecting millions

Chronic pain affects 80% of those living with it, and up to 10% gain access to effective treatments; a national strategy is long overdue to address the issue's significant economic and personal burden.

SourceResearch Australia·DateSep 17, 2009

Building a complete metabolic model

Researchers created a comprehensive model of the bacterium's central metabolic network, including protein structures and interactions. The study reveals essential protein shapes and connections to unique metabolites.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalScience·DateSep 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.

Vaccine to prevent urinary tract infections shows early promise

Scientists at the University of Michigan have developed a potential vaccine to prevent urinary tract infections, which affect 53% of women and 14% of men. The vaccine targets iron receptors on bacteria that cause infection, inducing an immune response in mucosal tissue.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 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.

Scientists pinpoint protein link to fat storage

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh discovered that invadolysin, a protein present in all cells, is linked to lipid droplets used for fat storage. Lower levels of invadolysin were found to be associated with reduced fat deposits, suggesting its potential role in obesity and related complications.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateSep 17, 2009

Older Americans: How they are faring in the recession

A University of Michigan study found that older Americans are experiencing a rapid change in work expectations, with more expecting to work past age 65. The study also revealed significant financial losses, including a decline in home values and stock market exposure.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateSep 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.

Salmon migration mystery explored on Idaho's Clearwater River

Researchers studying Idaho's Clearwater River have found that temperature differences and slow-moving water can delay the migration of juvenile salmon, allowing them to grow larger before reaching the Pacific Ocean. This delayed migration could help the fish survive better when they finish their ocean-bound trek.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateSep 17, 2009

NASA's Aqua satellite catches 2 views of super Typhoon Choi-Wan

The NASA Aqua satellite captured two distinct views of Super Typhoon Choi-Wan, including a visible image with a clear eye and an infrared image showing cold high thunderstorm cloud temperatures. The typhoon has maximum sustained winds near 149 mph, generating extremely high waves.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 17, 2009

Study predicts effect of global warming on spring flowers

An international study predicts a 50-day shift in flowering times of certain plants in specific climates by 2080, driven by global warming. The research used climate records from the past century and plant responses to air temperatures, predicting changes in spring blooming dates across different regions.

SourceMonash University·JournalInternational Journal of Climatology·DateSep 17, 2009

Rare cases of restored vision reveal how the brain learns to see

Researchers found that dynamic information is critical to learning to segregate objects from backgrounds. After three patients regained sight, their performance improved over time, with success rates increasing to almost normal when objects were in motion.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal Of Psychological Science·DateSep 17, 2009

American-made SRF cavity makes the grade

The first US-built superconducting radiofrequency niobium cavity to meet the ILC's stringent performance goals has been successfully tested at Jefferson Lab. The cavity, manufactured by Advanced Energy Systems, exceeded the specification of 35 MV/m with an accelerating gradient of 41 megavolts per meter.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateSep 17, 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.

ISU researchers working to develop, market embryonic test for bovine genetics

Researchers at Iowa State University are working on an embryonic test that can determine a calf's genetic soundness before birth, allowing producers to select valuable embryos and reduce waste. The new technology has the potential to revolutionize cattle breeding and marketing, enabling producers to target specific traits and markets.

SourceIowa State University·DateSep 17, 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.

Binge drinkers let down guard against infection

New research shows that binge drinking inhibits production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, impairing immune system activation. The study found that alcohol suppresses TLR4's signaling, leading to a prolonged risk of infection

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Immunology·DateSep 17, 2009

Metabolic syndrome risk factors drive significantly higher health-care costs

A study found that individuals with metabolic syndrome risk factors experience nearly 1.6-fold higher healthcare costs due to conditions such as obesity and high blood pressure. The average annual cost increase for those with additional risk factors is 24%, reaching $5,732 versus $3,581 per year.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMetabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders·DateSep 17, 2009

T. rex body plan debuted in Raptorex, but 100th the size

Raptorex displays all the hallmarks of Tyrannosaurus rex, including a large head and tiny arms, at about 100th the size that would eventually become T. rex. This suggests that tyrannosaur design evolved at a small body size, with larger animals developing later.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·DateSep 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.

'Apples-to-apples' analysis of Arab development yields fresh view

The study divides Arab countries into three categories and compares their population-weighted averages in health, educational attainment, and income with those of non-Arab nations. While Arab countries have made significant progress in areas such as life expectancy and education, they lag behind in democracy and women's labor-force par...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Economic Perspectives·DateSep 17, 2009

Penn State College of Medicine research isolates liver cancer stem cells prior to tumor formation

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine have identified a population of cancer stem cells in the liver prior to tumor formation. These malignant stem cells have been found to be resistant to chemotherapy and are thought to play a key role in driving liver cancer formation. The study suggests that targeting these cells could poten...

SourcePenn State Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine·JournalStem Cells·DateSep 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.