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Science News for April 13, 2010


Brain cancer: Study focuses on forgotten cells

Scientists have discovered that residual glioblastoma cells have different properties than those found in the tumor mass, making them more mobile and resistant to treatment. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic approaches against this aggressive brain cancer.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateApr 13, 2010

Stanford researchers find electrical current stemming from plants

Researchers at Stanford University have successfully harnessed a tiny electric current from algae cells using a unique nanoelectrode. This discovery could lead to the development of high-efficiency bioelectricity with zero carbon emissions. However, further improvements are needed to scale up the process and make it economically feasible.

SourceStanford University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Sequence is scaffold to study sleeping sickness

Researchers have generated a high-quality draft genome sequence for the strain of T. brucei responsible for human African trypanomiasis, a chronic disease affecting the central nervous system. The study found that the parasite's ability to infect humans is linked to subtle genetic differences, including changes in VSG genes.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 13, 2010

Turning planetary theory upside down

Astronomers discover six exoplanets orbiting their stars in the opposite direction to the star's rotation, contradicting conventional wisdom. This finding sparks alternative migration theories, suggesting that hot Jupiters may form far from their stars and migrate inward due to gravitational interactions with distant companions.

SourceESO·DateApr 13, 2010

'Vicious circle' offers new acute leukemia treatment target

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new molecular network that contributes to abnormal KIT protein abundance in acute leukemia cells. Targeting this network with therapeutic drugs may prove more effective than current standard of care.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 13, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Creepy crawly cockroach ancestor revealed in new 3-D model

Scientists at Imperial College London have created a comprehensive 3D model of a fossilized cockroach ancestor, Archimylacris eggintoni, which lived around 300 million years ago. The study reveals the physical traits that helped it thrive on the forest floor, including sticky structures on its legs and claws for climbing.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBiology Letters·DateApr 13, 2010

Give dirty mouths a brush

A study by the Academy of General Dentistry found that triclosan/copolymer toothpaste is more effective at killing harmful germs in the mouth than regular fluoride toothpastes. This can help minimize cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateApr 13, 2010

Wild ferrets are spreading throughout the island of La Palma

Ferrets, introduced for rabbit hunting, are spreading across La Palma, with a growing population affecting the island's native fauna. The researchers found that the ferret population is directly related to prey availability and shelter in rural areas, highlighting concerns over their impact on bird species and endemic lizards.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalOryx·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Birds of a feather don't always respond together to infection

A Princeton University-led team tracked fever and sickness behaviors in song sparrows using radio transmitters, discovering that different populations respond differently to infection. The study's findings may aid in forecasting where diseases will take hold, including West Nile virus.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateApr 13, 2010

Study: Guillain-Barré Syndrome cases low after 2009 H1N1 vaccine

Researchers analyzed vaccination data and found only 35 reports of GBS following 2009 H1N1 vaccination, a rate of 3.5 per 10 million people vaccinated. In contrast, the seasonal flu vaccination in 2009 reported 57 cases, an estimated rate of 7.3 per 10 million vaccinations.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping comes to Houston

The University of Houston welcomes the NSF-supported National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping, bringing cutting-edge laser mapping technology to its campus. The center aims to advance research in geosensing systems engineering, improving disaster recovery, oil and gas exploration, and environmental studies.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateApr 13, 2010

UI researchers analyze implications of 'intelligent design' for human behavior

The article highlights that even grand achievements like suspension bridges and Olympic high jumping originated through trial-and-error learning. By shifting focus from perceived foresight to actual origins of behavior, researchers can better understand the forces uniting evolutionary and developmental processes.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalAmerican Scientist·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

New adult malnutrition strategies could improve diagnosis and treatment

A new approach to diagnosing adult malnutrition, proposed by an international committee of nutrition researchers, could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment. The strategy classifies patients into three categories: starvation related, chronic disease related, or acute disease/injury related.

SourcePenn State·JournalClinical Nutrition·DateApr 13, 2010

New patented technology for improving cardiac CTs receives NIH support

Researchers from Virginia Tech and GE Global Research Center are developing novel cardiac computed tomography (CT) architectures and methods to improve image quality with low radiation. Their patented approach, interior tomography, can produce accurate images of a region of interest, reducing radiation exposure and accommodating larger...

SourceVirginia Tech·DateApr 13, 2010

High-performance computing reveals missing genes

Researchers used high-performance computing to locate small genes missed by scientists, uncovering 380 families of undetected gene families. The study used an ephemeral supercomputer to perform an all-to-all sequence search, reducing the search time from nearly 90 years to just 12 hours.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBMC Bioinformatics·DateApr 13, 2010

New nano-tool synthesized at Scripps Research Institute

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute synthesized a new molecular switch that can turn itself on and off in response to metallic ions. The 'Ouroborand' molecule, named after the mythical lizard, has potential applications in detecting metals, toxins, and pollutants.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Health care reform 'important' even to those who want new law repealed

According to a new national survey by Indiana University's Center for Health Policy and Professionalism Research, 58% of Americans support health care reform, despite some wanting the law repealed. Younger individuals were most supportive of repeal, but many also want Congress to continue working on health care system reforms.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·DateApr 13, 2010

New drug design technique could dramatically speed discovery process

Researchers use powerful computers to identify molecular structures that have high potential as new medications by simultaneously targeting multiple hot spots on protein surfaces. This method has the potential to complement and increase efficiency of existing time-consuming methods.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Computational Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2010

Blinded by jealousy?

A new study by University of Delaware psychologists found that jealousy impairs a woman's ability to detect targets among distracting images. The researchers suggest social emotions can affect perception, revealing a profound impact on mental and physical health.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEmotion·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Migraine: Aspirin and an antiemetic is a reasonable option

A single dose of aspirin (900-1000mg) significantly reduces migraine headache pain in over half of people, with added metoclopramide improving nausea and vomiting symptoms. Aspirin plus metoclopramide is a reasonable option for acute migraine attacks, but may not be effective enough for some.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateApr 13, 2010

Tapeworm brain infection 'serious health concern'

Neurocysticercosis, a tapeworm brain infection, is increasing in Mexico and bordering southwestern US states, affecting up to 10% of the population. The infection can cause severe symptoms like seizures, headaches, and encephalitis, highlighting the need for proper evaluation and management.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNeurological Research·DateApr 13, 2010

Scientists find new genes for cancer, other diseases in plants, yeast and worms

Researchers found genes in yeast that help form veins and arteries in humans, while also fixing cell walls in response to stress. They identified eight genes that contribute to blood vessel formation in animals and several of these genes are also linked to human breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Improving data collection and estimation methods for child and adult mortality

Researchers propose new methods to accurately estimate child and adult mortality rates, improving data collection and analysis. These methods, such as using summary birth history and sibling survival data, aim to address limitations of traditional demographic methods and provide a more reliable understanding of population health trends.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 13, 2010

Endangered quolls taught to turn their noses up at toxic toad

Researchers successfully trained northern quolls to associate the taste of toxic cane toads with nausea, allowing them to survive up to five times longer in areas infested with these invasives. This approach could provide a vital new weapon in the fight against invasive species.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

What causes seizure in focal epilepsy?

A study reveals that early activation of astroglia in focal epilepsy drives neurons to generate epileptic discharges. This neuron-astrocyte interaction may represent a novel target for controlling epilepsy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Carnegie Mellon's Jessica Zhang wins Investigator Award

Jessica Zhang, an assistant professor at Carnegie Mellon University, has received a Young Investigator Award for her research on developing novel algorithms to improve ship design and analysis. The award provides $510,000 in funding over three years to support her research goals.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 13, 2010

Study finds wide variation in those infected by H1N1

A study analyzing blood samples from Singapore found significant variation in H1N1 infection risks among different age groups and military personnel. Younger individuals and those with household members who seroconverted had higher infection rates, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Community research guidelines set stage for 'real world' scholarship

A new paper from NC State University outlines guidelines for developing partnerships between academics and local communities to address social issues. The study found that incorporating students into community-based research projects requires flexibility, student motivation, and faculty coordination.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Baccalaureate Social Work·DateApr 13, 2010

Drinking tap water may help you avoid dentist's drill

A recent study published in the Academy of General Dentistry's peer-reviewed journal found that drinking fluoridated tap water can significantly reduce cavities and promote remineralization. The controlled addition of fluoride to public water supplies is considered a cost-effective way to prevent tooth decay.

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateApr 13, 2010

Dual approach gives a more accurate picture of the autistic brain

A new study combines two analytical techniques to provide a more accurate picture of the autistic brain, revealing regional differences in grey matter and potential markers for early therapy. The research provides critical insight into autism, shedding light on structural brain differences that may be related to enhanced perception abi...

SourceMcGill University·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateApr 13, 2010

Cultural identity of indigenous society of Patagonia restored

Researchers reveal that Patagonia's indigenous societies were dynamic, with complex social organization, linguistic diversity and high mobilization capacity. They also adjusted their internal characteristics to cope with change.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalArctic Anthropology·DateApr 13, 2010
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.

Fear of getting fat seen in healthy women's brain scans

A new study using MRI technology found that healthy women's brains activate an area processing identity and self-reflection when viewing images of overweight strangers. Even those with no history of eating disorders exhibit sub-clinical body image issues.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateApr 13, 2010

STI, HIV counseling inadequate in male teens

A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that most sexually active male teens receive inadequate HIV and STI counseling during doctor visits, even among those with high-risk behaviors. The study highlights the need for better counseling to minimize risky behaviors.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateApr 13, 2010

SNM receives grant from AHRQ for comparative effectiveness research

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNM) has received a $48,000 grant from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to develop research on comparative effectiveness of PET and other molecular imaging techniques. The primary emphasis will be on cancer diagnosis and management, with cardiology and neurolog...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateApr 13, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Democracy not vital for Internet to flourish in some countries

A study by Ohio State University found that social factors like population growth and violent conflict are more important than democracy in expanding Internet use. Strong capitalism can help a country join the online community even if it lacks democratic freedoms.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSociological Inquiry·DateApr 13, 2010

A lab rat -- created in the lab

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have created lab-grown tissues from fat, skin, bone, and muscle cells, reducing the need for animal trials in pharmaceutical and medical research. This breakthrough technology has the potential to spare hundreds of animal lives and improve scientific efficiency.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalTissue Engineering·DateApr 13, 2010

Argonne's CARIBU charge breeder breaks world record for efficiency

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have achieved a significant breakthrough in charge breeding, reaching an unprecedented 11.9% ionization efficiency with metallic particles of rubidium. This achievement surpasses the previous metal record of 6.5% and paves the way for further improvements in efficiency.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateApr 13, 2010