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Science News for September 29, 2009


How the 100th protein structure solved at Diamond impacts our understanding of how insects smell

Researchers at Rothamsted Research and Birkbeck University use Diamond Light Source's X-rays to unravel the mechanisms linked to pheromone detection in silkworm moths. This breakthrough has significant implications for developing new eco-friendly pest control methods, which could also benefit biosensors and detect explosives.

SourceDiamond Light Source·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateSep 29, 2009

Perfect image without metamaterials ... and a reprieve for silicon chips

Ulf Leonhardt's new research paper proposes a 'fish-eye' lens that can create perfect images with unlimited resolution in principle, eliminating the need for negative refraction. This breakthrough could enable silicon chip manufacturers to produce smaller and more compact structures of billions of tiny transistors.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateSep 29, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stem cell success points to way to regenerate parathyroid glands

University of Michigan researchers have successfully induced embryonic stem cells to differentiate into parathyroid cells producing a hormone essential for maintaining bone density. The goal is to prevent osteomalacia, a severe form of bone loss affecting tens of thousands in the US.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateSep 29, 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.

Living, meandering river constructed

Researchers successfully built a scale model of a living meandering river, demonstrating the critical role of vegetation in slowing erosion and reinforcing banks. Sand, typically avoided in stream restoration, was found to be essential for building point bars and blocking cut-off channels, leading to a more balanced ecosystem.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2009

Institute for Aging Research study links high-heels to heel and ankle pain

A new study by the Institute for Aging Research found a significant association between high-heel wear and hind-foot pain in older women. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,300 men and women and found that nearly 64% of women who reported hind-foot pain regularly wore high-heels or pumps at some point in their life. The study su...

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateSep 29, 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.

New perspectives on cancer surgery

Researchers have developed a new technique that combines electrosurgery with mass spectrometry to analyze tissue during surgery. This allows surgeons to distinguish between malignant tumor cells and healthy tissue in real-time, potentially sparing patients from unnecessary second surgeries.

SourceWiley·DateSep 29, 2009

U-M physicists create first atomic-scale map of quantum dots

Researchers created the first atomic-scale maps of quantum dots, providing detailed information about their structure and chemical makeup. This breakthrough enables controlled fabrication and manipulation of quantum dots for various applications in computing, energy and technology.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 29, 2009

Scientists find obesity alone does not cause arthritis in animals

A new Duke University study has found that leptin plays a crucial role in determining whether obese mice develop arthritis, regardless of their weight. The absence of leptin was shown to prevent osteoarthritis in obese mice, with healthier joint appearance compared to normal control mice.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 29, 2009

Security versus privacy: How do we get the balance right?

A new publication by ESRC explores how to strike a balance between security and privacy in the face of increasing technological advancements. The guide is designed to help organizations assess potential concerns and identify safeguards, emphasizing the need for early consideration and informed decision-making.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateSep 29, 2009

Mystery solved: Marine microbe is source of rare nutrient

A new study has solved a ten-year-old mystery about the source of an essential nutrient in the ocean. Researchers have discovered that Trichodesmium, a marine phytoplankton group, produces and consumes phosphonate, a rare form of organic phosphorus. This finding is important for understanding the global carbon and nitrogen cycles.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 29, 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.

Novel chemistry for ethylene and tin

Ethylene, a gas crucial for fruit ripening and industrial chemistry, can reversibly bind to tin atoms, according to a new UC Davis study. The discovery has implications for understanding catalytic processes, which are essential in both living cells and industrial settings.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2009

Was mighty T. rex 'Sue' felled by a lowly parasite?

Researchers suggest a lowly parasite, trichomonosis, caused holes in Sue's jaw and may have led to her demise. The parasite, common in modern birds, was transmitted through salivary contact or cannibalism, making feeding difficult for the dinosaur.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 29, 2009

Training clinicians helps reduce rates of early childhood cavities

A Boston University School of Medicine study found that training pediatricians and clinical nurses improves communication with parents to reduce children's risk of developing early childhood caries. The intervention resulted in a significant reduction of ECC rates among patients at the trained site.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateSep 29, 2009

Cosmic rays hit space age high

Researchers have detected a surge in galactic cosmic rays, reaching a Space Age high, attributed to the solar minimum. The increase poses a risk for astronauts and satellite systems, requiring re-evaluation of radiation shielding.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 29, 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.

Study outlines strategies to test new payment models for health care

A RAND Corporation study identifies key issues in designing episode-based payment approaches, including defining episodes of care and identifying accountable providers. The research highlights the need for more rapid testing of these strategies to address challenges such as multiple chronic conditions and varying provider settings.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 29, 2009

Scientists join forces to explain HIV spread in Central and East Africa

Researchers used genetic and geographic data to understand why HIV-1 subtypes held steady in west central Africa before erupting as an epidemic in east Africa. The study found that connectivity between population centers and better transportation networks contributed to the rapid spread of the virus.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalAIDS·DateSep 29, 2009

New blood-thinning drug safer than rat poison

Dabigatran, a new blood-thinner, has been shown to be as effective as warfarin in preventing strokes and major bleeding, but with significantly fewer side effects. This finding could lead to a change in standard anticoagulant therapy.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 29, 2009

Lack of social interaction affects health outcomes of breast cancer

A study published in Cancer Prevention Research found that isolated mice developed significantly larger mammary gland tumors compared to group-housed mice, suggesting a link between social environment and cancer growth. The researchers also identified potential molecular biomarkers for breast cancer prevention.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateSep 29, 2009

SDSC part of $15 million project to create 'FutureGrid' computer network

The San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC) is part of a four-year project called 'FutureGrid' that aims to develop and test new approaches to parallel, grid, and cloud computing. Researchers will collaborate to create an experimental high-performance grid test-bed, enabling the detection of bugs in software before production.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 29, 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.

Women who make poor shoe choices at risk for foot pain later in life

A recent study by Boston University School of Public Health and the Institute for Aging Research found that women who wear poor shoes are at risk of developing foot pain in later years. The Framingham Foot Study assessed over 3,300 participants and revealed a strong correlation between improper footwear and hindfoot pain.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateSep 29, 2009

Revolutionary statewide UC collaboration targets breast cancer

The University of California's ATHENA Breast Health Network is a groundbreaking statewide collaboration aimed at improving breast cancer care. The project will involve 150,000 women across California and generate rich data on breast cancer treatment, potentially leading to breakthroughs in personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateSep 29, 2009

Australian study sheds light on kidney repair and disease

A Monash University study has identified the role of microscopic antennas in the kidney's repair process, shedding light on a potentially fatal disease. The research, led by Dr. James Deane, showed how hair-like structures called cilia change their length in response to injury, amplifying signals that turn off the repair process.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 29, 2009

Rice's Tapia receives Hispanic Heritage Award

Rice University mathematician Richard Tapia is recognized for his contributions to the advancement of minorities, with a focus on education outreach and K-12 diversity initiatives. He joins an esteemed group of award winners, including artists, politicians, and entertainers.

SourceRice University·DateSep 29, 2009

Study highlights HIV/AIDS challenge in American prison system

A new study by Dr. Nitika Pant Pai found that only 15% of HIV-positive repeat offenders in San Francisco County jail continued their antiretroviral treatment between incarcerations or after release, increasing the risk of disease progression and public health transmission.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 29, 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.

Social isolation worsens cancer

Researchers found that social isolation caused increased tumor growth and altered gene expression in mouse mammary glands, suggesting potential molecular biomarkers and targets for preventive intervention in human breast cancer. The study also supports previous epidemiologic studies linking social isolation to chronic disease mortality.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateSep 29, 2009

Combining sun, sand and science in the Bahamas

Researchers from the University of Miami collaborated with developers to establish a sustainable development project in the Bahamas. The Baker's Bay Golf and Ocean Club project employed environmental scientists to guide construction, resulting in key findings on environmental impacts and mitigation measures.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalJournal of Sustainable Tourism·DateSep 29, 2009

Young adults may outgrow bipolar disorder

Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that nearly half of young adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder between ages 18-25 may recover by age 30. The study suggests a possible link to brain development and social changes during emerging adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateSep 29, 2009

Did Tyrannosaurus rex suffer from a common bird disease?

Researchers discovered that Tyrannosaurus rex and its relatives had a potentially deadly infectious disease similar to trichomonosis, which causes swollen jaws and holes. The study found evidence of face-biting marks on many specimens and suggests that cannibalism or head-biting may have spread the disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 29, 2009

A step toward better brain implants using conducting polymer nanotubes

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed brain implants coated with conducting polymer nanotubes, which can record neural signals better than conventional metal electrodes. The new implants may eventually lead to more effective treatment of neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease and paralysis.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 29, 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.

Sold-out products influence consumer choice

Research from the University of Alberta found that sold-out products create a sense of urgency, increasing consumer demand for similar items. Consumers infer that if a product is sold out, it must be good and therefore desirable.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateSep 29, 2009

Protein inhibitor helps rid brain of toxic tau protein

Researchers at USF Health found that inhibiting the chaperone protein Hsp70 can reduce brain levels of toxic tau protein associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that targeting Hsp70 could lead to more effective treatments for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·DateSep 29, 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.

LSUHSC researcher identifies new target to prevent fatal flu lung complication

Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have identified interleukin-17 (IL-17) as a potential therapeutic target to prevent acute lung injury from influenza infection. Blocking IL-17 signaling may reduce inflammation and lung damage, offering new hope for flu-related complications.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateSep 29, 2009

Calcium scans may be effective screening tool for heart disease

A non-invasive test can effectively screen for silent heart disease and identify high-risk patients, potentially preventing heart attacks and sudden deaths. Coronary artery calcium scans detected plaque in coronary arteries, which were more effective than standard measurements.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 29, 2009

UT Houston, Jamaica researchers launch autism study

Researchers from UT Houston and Jamaica are launching a two-year, $300,000 study to explore the potential connection between genes and toxic metals in causing autism spectrum disorders. The study aims to identify specific genes that may interact with exposure to toxins like mercury, lead, and arsenic.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateSep 29, 2009

Eat soybeans to prevent diseases

Researchers have found that soybeans contain high levels of tocopherols, which have antioxidant properties and may play a role in cardiovascular diseases and cancer prevention. The study suggests that selection for high α-tocopherol content in soybeans will be possible, making it easier to develop functional foods with specific health-...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 29, 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.

Metabolic syndrome linked to liver disease in obese teenaged boys

A large-scale study has found a strong association between metabolic syndrome and elevated liver enzymes in obese adolescent males. The researchers also discovered an ethnic difference between Hispanic and non-Hispanic male participants.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition·DateSep 29, 2009

Sugar + weed killer = potential clean energy source

Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a fuel cell that extracts electrons from glucose and other carbohydrates, utilizing a common weed killer as a catalyst. The technology has shown a 29% conversion rate, paving the way for more efficient and commercially viable applications.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateSep 29, 2009

Telltale moss

Researchers found that moss shares basic development processes with humans and discovered a key component in stem cell programming. This discovery has implications for cancer research and could lead to better reprogramming of implanted stem cells.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalDevelopment·DateSep 29, 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.

Rediscovering the dragon's paradise lost

A new study reveals that the Komodo dragon most likely evolved in Australia and dispersed westward to Indonesia. The research, published in PLOS ONE, also details fossil evidence of a new species of giant varanid found on the island of Timor.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 29, 2009

Most would refuse emergency use H1N1 vaccine or additive

A majority of Americans are unwilling to take an H1N1 flu vaccine or drug additive authorized for emergency use, citing concerns about safety and effectiveness. The survey found that nearly 30% of respondents remained undecided, while 70% of those who expressed worry would refuse the vaccine outright.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateSep 29, 2009

Oleocanthal may help prevent, treat Alzheimer's

Researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center discovered that oleocanthal alters the structure of neurotoxic beta-amyloid proteins, impairing their ability to damage brain nerve cells. This structural change makes oleocanthal a potential target for developing effective immunotherapy treatments.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalToxicology and Applied Pharmacology·DateSep 29, 2009

No major role for fish in the prevention of heart failure

A large prospective population study found no difference in heart failure risk between fish eaters and non-eaters. However, a beneficial effect was observed in diabetic subjects with high EPA + DHA intake.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·DateSep 29, 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.

Agronomy Society welcomes USDA Mississippi River Basin Initiative

The USDA's $320 million initiative aims to support programs in 12 states, enabling farmers to implement conservation practices that reduce nutrient runoff and improve wildlife habitat. The program underscores the agency's commitment to sustainable land stewardship and cleaner water.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateSep 29, 2009

Obesity in mid-life reduces the chance of healthy survival in women

A new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers found that overweight women in mid-life had more health problems and impaired cognitive function later in life. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout adulthood may increase the odds of enjoying a healthy life in later years, according to the study.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·DateSep 29, 2009