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Science News for March 3, 2010


Students find 'lost' office gear with tiny sensors

Two university students work with CSIRO to bring tiny FLECK Nano sensors indoors, tracking temperature and power use of small objects. The goal is to create a pervasive computing system for everyday office items, monitoring environmental conditions and wireless data transmission.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateMar 3, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New technique to probe hidden dynamics of molecular biology

Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new method to study cellular dynamics by applying chemical pulses, allowing them to quantify cell behavior and function in detail. This technique, called chemical perturbation spectroscopy, may lead to breakthroughs in understanding insulin secretion and other biological processes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateMar 3, 2010

Scientists discover cause of destructive inflammations

A study published by the German Cancer Research Center found that CD95L promotes tissue-damaging inflammatory reactions in injured spinal cord tissue. Blocking this molecule may offer a new approach to treating severe inflammatory diseases.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalImmunity·DateMar 3, 2010

Vigilance needed in nanotechnology

Researchers have developed a methodology to measure nanoparticles in chicken embryos, shedding light on their potential effects on human health. The study's findings will inform regulatory approaches and help make nanotechnology more sustainable.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalChemical Physics Letters·DateMar 3, 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.

American Society for Microbiology honors Hans Wolf-Watz

Wolf-Watz recognized for seminal work on Yersinia host-pathogen interaction and international collaborations that advanced microbiological sciences. His proposal of type III protein secretion systems as unique injectors of proteins into host cells has been critical to understanding host-pathogen interactions.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMar 3, 2010

Patient age not a factor in use of second-line therapy for lung cancer

Research found no significant differences in tolerance and efficacy between elderly and non-elderly NSCLC patients receiving salvage targeted therapy or chemotherapy. Elderly patients showed comparable response rates, disease control, and survival times as younger patients.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMar 3, 2010

Researchers find weakness in common digital security system

University of Michigan researchers found a vulnerability in RSA authentication, a widely used encryption method. By manipulating voltage supply to the private key holder, hackers can extract the key and compromise security. The discovery has significant implications for media companies, mobile device manufacturers, and online retailers.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateMar 3, 2010

American Society for Microbiology honors Samuel L. Katz

The American Society for Microbiology honors Samuel L. Katz with the Maurice Hilleman/Merck Award for his decades-long work on vaccine development. Katz, a renowned expert in vaccine research, has made significant contributions to pathogenesis, vaccine discovery, and disease prevention.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMar 3, 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.

Flexing your marathon muscles at work

A new study suggests that people with high self-control tend to burn out quickly, while those who think like marathon runners can conserve energy and avoid burnout. Dr. Danit Ein-Gar's research offers tips for managing workload and achieving better performance by adopting a proactive approach.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateMar 3, 2010

Dr. Hunter Handsfield wins prestigious Thomas Parran Award

Dr. H. Hunter Handsfield is a leading researcher in STD prevention, recognized for his work on asymptomatic gonorrhea, chlamydia screening, and expedited partner therapy. He has made significant contributions to understanding the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, treatment, and prevention of various STDs.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·DateMar 3, 2010

Ocular shingles linked to increased risk of stroke

A recent study published in Neurology found that people with ocular shingles are four-and-a-half times more likely to experience a stroke compared to those without the infection. The research also discovered that individuals with ocular shingles were more likely to have ischemic strokes and less likely to have hemorrhagic strokes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 3, 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.

Early test for a killer of the sickest

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new gene-expression test that can detect Candida fungal infections in patients. The test measures how a patient's genes respond to the infection and has shown promising results in mice, indicating it could be an early detector of life-threatening candidemia.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 3, 2010

Old star is 'missing link' in galactic evolution

A newly discovered star in the Sculptor dwarf galaxy has a chemical makeup similar to the Milky Way's oldest stars, lending support to the 'bottom-up model' of galaxy formation. The star's unusually low metal abundance resembles those of old Milky Way stars, further validating the theory.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2010

Second dose of gene therapy for inherited blindness proves safe in animal studies

A second dose of gene therapy has proven safe and effective in animal studies, suggesting that patients who benefit from treatment in one eye may experience similar benefits in the other. The study found no signs of toxic side effects or interference from unwanted immune reactions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 3, 2010

Kids lose pounds, gain fitness in Houston study

A new Houston study shows that a kid-friendly weight management program can lead to significant weight loss and improved physical quality of life for children. The 6-month program involved instruction-led sessions on nutrition and behavior-change skills, resulting in better outcomes compared to a self-taught approach.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalObesity·DateMar 3, 2010

'Microrings' could nix wires for communications in homes, offices

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a miniature device capable of converting ultrafast laser pulses into bursts of radio-frequency signals. This technology has the potential to enable all communications to be transmitted from a single base station, making wires obsolete. The approach uses microring resonators to filter out ...

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 3, 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.

Supermarket lighting enhances nutrient level of fresh spinach

Fresh spinach leaves stored under continuous light exposure show significantly higher levels of vitamins C, K, E, and folate, as well as healthful carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. Continuous light exposure after nine days increases folate levels by up to 100% and vitamin K levels by 50-100%

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 3, 2010

Antifreeze proteins can stop ice melting, Queen's professors find

A new study by Queen's University researchers found that antifreeze proteins can superheat ice crystals, stabilizing them above the melting point for hours. This discovery has implications for understanding ice recrystallization in nature and food storage.

SourceQueen's University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2010

Gladstone scientists identify key protein in energy regulation

Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes discovered that SIRT3 plays a crucial role in regulating fatty acid oxidation and identified it as a potential therapeutic target. Mice lacking SIRT3 exhibited impaired fat burning and increased levels of fat and triglycerides, highlighting the enzyme's importance in energy metabolism.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2010

March 2010 Geology and GSA Today Highlights

A recent study examines sediments from the Chicxulub impact crater, finding evidence supporting K-T mass extinction theories. Another study investigates the formation of dikes in volcanic eruptions, shedding light on magmatic overpressure and eruption hazards.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 3, 2010
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.

25th anniversary of anti-AIDS drugs

The 25th anniversary of antiretroviral drug development is celebrated with a milestone Special Issue in Elsevier's Antiviral Research journal, featuring review articles from key players in the field. HIV-1 has gone from being an 'inherently untreatable' agent to one eminently susceptible to approved therapies.

SourceElsevier·JournalAntiviral Research·DateMar 3, 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.

Choosing a university degree is not linked to personality

Researchers found no strong connection between personality traits and university degree preferences among secondary school students. The study suggests that career guidance processes may need to be revised, taking personality questionnaires as less relevant information.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalPsychological Reports·DateMar 3, 2010

Dementia study launched within the deaf community

Researchers are developing new assessment tools in British Sign Language (BSL) to identify dementia among Deaf people, who often face unique challenges in accessing care and support. The study aims to improve early diagnosis and provide tailored services for this underserved population.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMar 3, 2010

Endangered Species Research publishes theme section on biologging science

Recent biologging studies reveal surprising behaviors, such as Atlantic bluefin tuna's 5,000-foot dives and elephant seals' annual 40,000-mile migrations. The research also provides insights into ocean animals' physiological parameters, environmental preferences and conservation status.

SourceStanford University - Hopkins Marine Station·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateMar 3, 2010

Tough new spuds take on double trouble

Researchers have developed five new potato breeding lines resistant to powdery scab and black dot diseases, caused by fungi <i>Spongospora subterranea</i> and <i>Colletotrichum coccodes</i>, respectively. The lines consistently showed fewer disease symptoms than other tested varieties in three years of field trials.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalPlant Disease·DateMar 3, 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.

Experts support new federal center for Medicare and Medicaid innovation

A new federal center for Medicare and Medicaid innovation could spur significant delivery system change by implementing alternative payment structures through voluntary pilot projects. Such pilots would be particularly beneficial for health care organizations looking to reduce excess clinical spending.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 3, 2010

First of missing primitive stars discovered

Scientists have discovered a relic star from the early universe, which has a remarkably similar chemical composition to the Milky Way's oldest stars. The discovery supports the theory that our galaxy underwent a 'cannibal' phase by swallowing smaller galaxies and other galactic building blocks.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2010

Transplant drug preserves kidneys, avoids toxicity

Belatacept, a new transplant drug, preserves kidney function while avoiding toxicity in patients, with similar graft survival rates to standard immunosuppressive drugs. The drug's side effect profile is more favorable, with lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateMar 3, 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.

Pharmacists can play key role in fight against osteoporosis: U of A study

A University of Alberta study found that pharmacist interventions led to a 200% increase in patients getting further assessment and diagnosis for osteoporosis. Pharmacists can help with education and screening, addressing the silent disease that often goes undiagnosed after age 50.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateMar 3, 2010

Adverse events rate is low when propofol is administered by trained professional

A new study in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that propofol administration by a trained professional results in a low rate of sedation-related complications. The study identified risk factors for complications and highlights the importance of proper training and patient selection.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateMar 3, 2010

Comparative effectiveness trial leads to evidence-based care for childhood epilepsy

A comprehensive clinical trial established an evidence-based approach for initial drug therapy of childhood absence epilepsy. Ethosuximide was found to provide the best combination of seizure control and fewest attentional side effects, making it a sensible choice for initial monotherapy.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 3, 2010

Community involvement important in fight against childhood obesity, according to UTHealth researchers

A study published in Obesity found that community involvement can significantly reduce childhood obesity rates, with a 8.3% decrease seen in low-income minority schools compared to 1.3% in traditional programs. Researchers emphasize the need for environmental and societal level changes to address this issue.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalObesity·DateMar 3, 2010

American Society for Microbiology honors Renato J. Aguilera

Renato J. Aguilera has been recognized by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) with the William A. Hinton Research Training Award for his efforts to train underrepresented minorities in microbiology. This award highlights his commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in scientific research.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMar 3, 2010
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Soccer reduces risk of falls and bone fractures

A study published in Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports found that soccer training increases bone density, muscle mass, and postural balance in both young and older adults. The results suggest that soccer is an effective method for reducing the risk of falls and fractures, particularly among women and elderly men.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateMar 3, 2010

A convincing mimic: Scientists report octopus imitating flounder in the Atlantic

Atlantic longarm octopuses have evolved expert camouflage capabilities, including mimicking the appearance and swimming speed of peacock flounders. Researchers observed uncanny similarities in coloration, form, and movement between the two species, demonstrating an unusual form of disruptive camouflage.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalBiological Bulletin·DateMar 3, 2010

Scientists locate apparent hydrothermal vents off Antarctica

Researchers at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory found evidence of hydrothermal vents near Antarctica, a discovery that could spur exploration of the distant mid-ocean ridge. The sites identified cover 340 miles of ridge line, offering a new area to study complex organisms and ocean chemistry.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 3, 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.

Cows like leaves their tongues can wrap around easily

Research by USDA scientists found that cows can efficiently graze pastures with easily accessible leaves, reducing the need for time and land. This approach enables ranchers to better estimate how long to leave cattle in a pasture and how large to make it.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMar 3, 2010

Hemoglobin A1c outperforms fasting glucose for risk prediction

Researchers found that HbA1c levels accurately predict future diabetes and stroke, heart disease, and all-cause mortality. The study identified people with HbA1c levels between 5.0 to 5.5 percent as within the normal range, while those at a level of 6.5 percent or greater are considered diabetic.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 3, 2010

Air Force eyes mini-thrusters for use in satellite propulsion

Researchers funded by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research are developing mini-thrusters that could enable small satellites to perform complex tasks like planetary searches. The technology also has potential applications in other areas, such as etching semiconductors and fabricating computer chips.

SourceAir Force Office of Scientific Research·DateMar 3, 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.

Mineral studies advance antibacterial alternatives

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered two factors controlling the antibacterial activity of clay minerals, which can kill bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. The study's findings suggest a role for acid-soluble metal species in mineral toxicity, but also present challenges for developing topical treatments.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2010

American Society for Microbiology honors Thomas M. Schmidt

Thomas M. Schmidt, a renowned microbiologist, has been honored with the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Graduate Microbiology Teaching Award. He is recognized for fostering an intellectually stimulating environment and inspiring rigorous thinkers through his clear explanations.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMar 3, 2010

Study: Climate change one factor in malaria spread

Researchers found that climate change is one factor contributing to the rise of malaria in highland areas, particularly in East Africa, Indonesia, and Afghanistan. However, they also identified other key factors, such as migration and land-use changes, that are likely driving the spread of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateMar 3, 2010
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.

Hormone replacement therapy linked to increased lung cancer risk

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that women taking estrogen plus progestin hormone replacement therapy for 10 or more years have a 50% increased risk of developing lung cancer compared to non-users. The study also suggests that duration of use is associated with an advanced stage of cancer at diagnosis.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 3, 2010

Battling a biceps injury

A new study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that surgical treatment soon after a biceps injury leads to faster and more complete recoveries. The study revealed that surgery offers significant improvements in elbow flexion and supination, with upper extremity endurance also enhanced.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 3, 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.

Dinosaurs might be older than previously thought

The discovery of Asilisaurus kongwe, a dinosaur-like animal, pushes back the age of known dinosaurs by 10 million years. Fossil evidence suggests that silesaurs, close relatives of dinosaurs, may have diverged from common ancestors by 240 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 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.

A rocking good lecture

Dr. Diggle's research focuses on the ability of pathogenic bacteria to coordinate cooperative behaviours to exploit their hosts. His work has been published in top journals Nature and Current Biology, and he will deliver a key lecture at the Society for General Microbiology Spring Meeting

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateMar 3, 2010

New biomarkers for predicting the spread of colon cancer

Researchers identified two biomarkers in the blood that may accurately predict the spread of colon cancer, allowing for earlier intervention and treatment. The study found these biomarkers were significantly higher in metastatic cells than primary tumor cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateMar 3, 2010

HIV vaccine strategy expands immune responses

A new HIV vaccine strategy, called 'mosaic vaccines,' has shown promise in expanding immune responses in rhesus monkeys. The approach uses computational methods to create small sets of highly variable artificial viral proteins that stimulate a strong immune response against the diverse forms of HIV.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 3, 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.

Safety data favor norepinephrine over dopamine for shock

An editorial in NEJM suggests that norepinephrine is a safer option than dopamine for stabilizing blood pressure in shock patients, citing a European clinical trial. The study found no overall difference in death rates between the two treatments, but higher mortality rates in patients with cardiogenic shock treated with dopamine.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 3, 2010