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Science News for January 21, 2010


Moving through time

A study by University of Aberdeen researchers found that mentally traveling through time can physically move us. Engaging in chronesthesia, or mental time travel, resulted in movements corresponding to the metaphorical direction of time.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 21, 2010

Notre Dame study focuses on protein dynamics

A Notre Dame study highlights the role of dynamic motion by proteins involved in the body's immune response. The research found that different antigens produce distinct motions, complicating but also simplifying recognition by T-cell receptors.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalImmunity·DateJan 21, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists discover cells critical to childhood leukemia

Researchers at the University of Melbourne discovered a type of cell that causes T cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in children. Targeting these cells could reduce treatment length and toxicity, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2010

Genomic surveillance of pandemic H1N1

The BC Centre for Disease Control has launched a genomic surveillance project to study the evolution of the pandemic H1N1 flu virus in British Columbia. Researchers will compare the genetic sequences of BC's influenza viruses with those from other regions to understand how mass gatherings like the Olympics impact the virus' evolution.

SourceGenome BC·DateJan 21, 2010

NYSCF Fellow lead author on study that creates blood vessel cells from stem cells

A study led by NYSCF Fellow Daylon James has generated a human embryonic stem cell line to measure and boost endothelial cell production, establishing a standard methodology for producing functional endothelial cells from hESCs. The cells can now be used for pre-clinical assessment of vascular disease in large animal models.

SourceNew York Stem Cell Foundation·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 21, 2010

Tropical Storm Magda puts North Western Australian on alert

Tropical Storm Magda is expected to bring gusty winds of up to 93 mph and heavy rainfall to coastal areas in North Western Australia. The storm's center is predicted to make landfall on January 22, with the potential for flooding in low-lying areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 21, 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.

Genetics helps to crack down on chimpanzee smuggling

A study published in BMC Ecology found that rescued chimpanzees in Cameroon are from the same region, suggesting local trade is a significant issue. The research also revealed that protected areas are being targeted for poaching, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered subspecies.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateJan 21, 2010

Large medical center reduces CT scans and patient radiation exposure through a simple, educational intervention

A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that a simple educational intervention and routing patients to V/Q scanning or CTPA based on chest X-ray results significantly reduced CT scan usage and radiation exposure. The medical center saw a 20% reduction in radiation dose from 8.0 mSv to 6.4 mSv.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJan 21, 2010

New concoction reprograms differentiated cells into pluripotent stem cells

Researchers from Singapore's A*STAR report a novel transcription factor, Nr5a2, can replace classical reprogramming factors to increase iPS cell efficiency. This breakthrough has significant implications for cell-therapy-based medicine and the creation of organs for replacement or transplantation.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJan 21, 2010
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.

Tracking MRSA evolution and transmission

Researchers developed a new method to precisely track MRSA transmission in hospitals, enabling understanding of strain spread and leading to novel infection control strategies. The team used DNA sequencing technologies to compare individual isolates and identify genetic relatedness.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2010

Changing flowering times protect tobacco plants against insect herbivory

Scientists discovered that tobacco plants alter their flower opening time in response to insect herbivory, reducing scent emission and attracting hummingbirds as an alternative pollinator. This adaptation helps protect the plant from harm while still allowing for fertilization and reproduction.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 21, 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.

Potential of dairy-based package wraps outlined

Agricultural Research Service scientist Peggy Tomasula has written a chapter on using dairy ingredients to produce edible films and biodegradable packaging materials. The research focuses on improving the water-vapor barrier properties of dairy proteins, such as casein and whey.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJan 21, 2010

HIV infection prematurely ages the brain

Researchers found HIV reduces brain blood flow even among young patients, accelerating the aging process. Blood flow in HIV brains is comparable to that of uninfected individuals 15-20 years older.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 21, 2010

Mussel-inspired 'glue' for fetal membrane repair

A mussel-inspired sealant has been developed for repairing defects in human fetal membranes, showing promise as a biocompatible and effective solution. The sealant, inspired by the sticky properties of mussels, can seal tiny holes in the membrane without causing cell death.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 21, 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.

Managing Pacific Northwest dams for a changing climate

Researchers developed a new technique to manage dams in the Columbia River basin for a warmer future climate. The approach reduced summer losses in hydropower due to climate change by about a quarter, while bolstering flows for fish and minimizing flooding.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Water Resources Planning and Management·DateJan 21, 2010

Lack of cellular enzyme triggers switch in glucose processing

A study reveals that the absence of SIRT6 triggers a switch from cellular respiration to glycolysis, leading to increased glucose uptake and reduced mitochondrial energy production. This switch may contribute to tumor growth and provide new insights into treating type 2 diabetes.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateJan 21, 2010
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Engineers: New sensor could help treat, combat diabetes, other diseases

Researchers at University of Florida have developed a tiny new sensor that can detect glucose levels in the breath and pH levels, offering a potential solution for non-invasive diagnosis and treatment. The sensor is made from widely used technology already in cell phones and other devices, making it inexpensive to produce.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateJan 21, 2010

Providing good customer service is key to surviving down economy

A new report from the Center for Services Leadership provides valuable insights on how top companies deliver exceptional customer service. Key findings include the importance of services in driving economies and the need for businesses to focus on creating and delivering customer-centric service solutions.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateJan 21, 2010

Saying goodbye at airports the green way

A groundbreaking study aims to quantify the carbon footprint of airport journeys and identify innovative ways to reduce emissions. The research, funded by EPSRC, will explore measures such as audio/video facilities, public transport hubs, and car-sharing services.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateJan 21, 2010

'Cooling' forests can heat too

Researchers found that semi-arid forests can counteract global warming by absorbing and retaining heat, but this effect may be cancelled out by other processes. The 'air cooling' system in these forests efficiently reduces infrared radiation, leading to a net warming effect.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2010

Study finds face masks and hand hygiene can help limit influenza's spread

A study of college students found that wearing face masks and practicing hand hygiene reduced influenza-like symptoms by 35-51%. The use of hand sanitizer did not add significant benefit, suggesting that mask-wearing alone is enough to limit the spread of flu.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 21, 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.

Zebrafish swim into drug development

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center used zebrafish to identify novel compounds that selectively target bone-related diseases and cancer. By leveraging the zebrafish model, they discovered potent BMP inhibitors with improved selectivity, bypassing off-target effects.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJan 21, 2010

Link between obesity and enhanced cancer risk elucidated

Research at the University of California, San Diego, reveals that obesity is a tumor-promoting factor for liver cancer, primarily through chronic inflammation caused by cytokines like IL-6 and TNF. This effect may be preventable with anti-TNF drugs, which also reduce liver fat accumulation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateJan 21, 2010

Stain repellent chemical linked to thyroid disease in adults

Researchers found a solid statistical link between higher concentrations of PFOA in blood and thyroid disease in adults. Individuals with the highest PFOA concentrations were more than twice as likely to report current thyroid disease.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJan 21, 2010

New evidence links humans to megafauna demise

A new scientific paper provides strong evidence that humans caused the extinction of Australia's megafauna, rather than climate change. Direct dating methods show that humans and megafauna co-existed for a short time, supporting the argument that hunting led to their demise.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2010
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.

LSUHSC research yields promising stroke treatment

Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have identified a novel mechanism that triggers brain damage during stroke, which they believe can be blocked using a high-potency reagent. This breakthrough may provide a new therapeutic target for stroke therapy, offering hope for patients affected by this devastating disease.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCell·DateJan 21, 2010

CWRU research finds first oral bacteria linking a mother and her stillborn baby

Researchers found Fusobacterium nucleatum in the lungs and stomach of a stillborn baby, linked to its mother's pregnancy-associated gum disease. The study suggests that oral bacteria can be transmitted from mother to fetus through the blood, emphasizing the importance of good oral health care during pregnancy.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 21, 2010

Adverse reactions from gadolinium-based contrast agents used during MRI rarely occur, study suggests

A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that acute adverse reactions from gadolinium-based contrast agents used during MRI are rare, occurring in only 0.16 percent of all administrations. The majority of reactions were mild, while six moderate and two severe reactions were reported.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJan 21, 2010

Stroke's 'death signal' discovered; may aid drug development

Biomedical scientists identify a way to block the 'cell death signal' that triggers brain damage during strokes. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic targets for stroke therapy and potentially improve treatments for other neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalCell·DateJan 21, 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.

Do children need both a mother and a father?

A new study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family examines the importance of fathers in child development, challenging the long-held assumption that children need both a mother and a father. The research found that children raised by same-sex parents do as well on average as those raised by opposite-sex parents.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateJan 21, 2010

Identification of the gene responsible for a new form of adult muscular dystrophy

Researchers have identified a new form of adult-onset muscular dystrophy caused by recessive ANO5 mutations, which lead to abnormal membrane repair of muscle fibers. This discovery may lead to better treatments for all muscular dystrophies where such abnormalities play a role.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 21, 2010

How does an outfielder know where to run for a fly ball?

Outfielders may not predict a ball's landing point based on its flight path, but instead track the ball's motion to catch it. The study found that outfielders adjust their movements depending on the ball's elevation angle and bearing.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalJournal of Vision·DateJan 21, 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.

Inflammation 'on switch' also serves as 'off switch'

A study by NC State researchers found that a protein called TAB2 activates inflammation but also brings together molecules to turn it off. This finding challenges previous understanding of the protein's role in immune-system responses.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 21, 2010

Team finds childhood clues to adult schizophrenia

A long-term study of over 1,000 New Zealanders found that children who later developed schizophrenia showed early cognitive deficits in verbal and visual learning, reasoning, and processing speed. These deficits persisted as they grew, with the children losing mental age at a rate comparable to those without schizophrenia.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 21, 2010

Teaching computer games

Researchers from Oklahoma State University outline a teaching method that uses rapid computer game creation to bridge the digital divide. This approach circumvents traditional barriers to computing, such as prior knowledge of programming, and fosters critical and creative thinking skills.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Social and Humanistic Computing·DateJan 21, 2010

Mountain plants unable to withstand invasion

A recent study found that mountain plant communities are susceptible to invasion by exotic species, contrary to previous beliefs. The research highlights the ease of propagule movement, low biological resistance, and increased transport between high-altitude areas as key factors contributing to these invasions.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJan 21, 2010
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.

New study: Human running speeds of 35 to 40 mph may be biologically possible

A new study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology suggests that human running speeds can exceed 28 mph due to limitations imposed by muscle fiber contractile speed. Researchers found that elite sprinters' foot-ground contact times are brief, implying a biological limit on how quickly muscles can generate forces.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateJan 21, 2010

Simple steps prevent life-threatening bloodstream infections in children

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that proper daily maintenance of central lines was key in preventing infections in children. The study showed a 43% drop in bloodstream infections from catheters by following simple rules for catheter care, including regular cleaning and hand washing.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 21, 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.

RFID tags to boost transit worker safety

A $1.4 million research collaboration aims to develop RFID technology to notify subway vehicles of track inspectors' exact location, enhancing worker safety. The project, involving McMaster University and industry partners, is expected to create up to 100 jobs upon successful completion.

SourceMcMaster University·DateJan 21, 2010

Stress peptide and receptor may have role in diabetes

Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered that corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) plays a part in the pancreas, increasing insulin secretion and promoting beta cell division. This finding may provide new insights into diabetes, particularly type 1, and suggest novel targets for drug intervention.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2010

Disease severity in H1N1 patients

A Canadian Medical Association Journal study found that longer intervals between symptom onset and antiviral treatment were associated with more severe H1N1 disease necessitating ICU admission. People of First Nations ethnicity were also at a higher risk of severe H1N1 infection compared to other ethnic groups.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 21, 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.

Degree of obesity raises risk of stroke, regardless of gender, race

A new study published in Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association found that a higher degree of obesity increases the risk of stroke, regardless of race, gender, or how obesity is measured. The study analyzed data from 13,549 middle-aged men and women and found significant disparities in stroke rates between whites and blacks.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJan 21, 2010

Discovery of algae's toxic hunting habits could help curb fish kills

Researchers discovered that algae, specifically Karlodinium veneficum, emits toxins to stun and immobilize its prey, which could lead to new ways to slow bloom growth. By reducing nutrient load and promoting filter feeders like the Eastern oyster, blooms may be reduced.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2010
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Watching crystals grow may lead to faster electronic devices

Researchers at Cornell University developed a method to control crystal growth, enabling the creation of smooth crystalline films. These films are crucial for producing defect-free semiconductors, a key component in modern computers and cell phones.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2010

Lighter sedation for elderly during surgery may reduce risk of confusion, disorientation after

A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers suggests that limiting the depth of sedation during procedures could safely cut the risk of postoperative delirium by 50 percent. Lighter sedation was associated with a one-day reduction in the duration of delirium in those patients who still emerged from surgery confused and disoriented.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJan 21, 2010

Slime design mimics Tokyo's rail system

Researchers found that slime mold can self-organize into a nearly identical network to Tokyo's rail system, suggesting improved technological systems. The model captures the basic dynamics of network adaptability through interaction of local rules.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2010
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.

US birth weights on the decline

Researchers at Harvard Medical School found a significant decline in US birth weights over the past 15 years, with full-term births averaging 79 grams less than expected. This trend is concerning, as low birth weight has been linked to increased risk of death and chronic diseases in adulthood.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 21, 2010

Study shows value of sexual reproduction versus asexual reproduction

A recent study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution found that sexually reproducing organisms accumulate fewer harmful DNA mutations than asexually reproducing ones. This suggests that sexual reproduction provides a protective advantage against genetic damage.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 21, 2010

Proportion of non-battle-related disorders causing medical evaucation from front line is increasing and must be addressed

A study published in The Lancet found that non-battle-related disorders, such as musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders, are the leading cause of medical evacuation from the front line. The study also identified factors associated with return to duty, including senior officer status and non-battle related injuries.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 21, 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.

San Andreas Fault study unearths new quake information

Researchers at Arizona State University and UC Irvine found varying fault movement in Carrizo Plain stream channels, contradicting previous assumptions of constant slip. This new information affects earthquake forecasting and understanding the potential for damaging earthquakes along the San Andreas Fault.

SourceArizona State University·DateJan 21, 2010

AGU journal highlights -- Jan. 21, 2010

Researchers detected ocean internal tides using seismic imaging, revealing a new tool for studying ocean mixing. Meanwhile, Arctic ice was found to be 'rotten' due to uniform temperature, threatening marine ecosystems and climate science.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 21, 2010