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Science News for February 2, 2011


First evidence for a spherical magnesium-32 nucleus

Researchers confirm existence of spherical magnesium-32 nucleus, contrary to predicted shell structure. The finding has implications for understanding element synthesis in stellar explosions and requires further experiments to refine predictions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateFeb 2, 2011

Cell reprogramming leaves a 'footprint' behind

Scientists found reprogramming errors in iPS cells, including a common defect near telomeres and centromeres. These hotspots resist non-CG methylation, but CG islands are affected, potentially limiting the fate of iPS cells.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011

Generic drug may improve the effectiveness of cancer nanotherapies

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that low doses of losartan improved the effectiveness of two nanotherapeutic approaches against several types of cancer. Losartan normalized the abnormal extracellular matrix of tumors, allowing for better delivery and efficacy of therapies.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Drugs warning -- check the label

A study found that 15 out of 20 drug classes had inconsistent black box warnings, with some warnings missing from all drugs in the same class. The researchers argue for a more transparent and systematic approach to label design.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

Rain in Spain is on the decline

A study by the University of Zaragoza found that Spain's precipitation has declined overall between March and June, reducing the length of the rainy season. The rains are heavier in October in the north west of the country.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalClimate Research·DateFeb 2, 2011

Why folic acid may prevent a first heart attack, but not a second

Research found that folic acid lowers homocysteine in the blood, which should reduce heart attack risk. However, clinical trials showed no extra benefit due to high aspirin use by participants. The study suggests folic acid may still be beneficial for those not taking aspirin.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Experiment reaches biology milestone with hard X-ray laser

Researchers at Arizona State University developed a new method to determine biomolecule structures, achieving over 3 million clear diffraction patterns with the Linac Coherent Light Source. This milestone has significant potential for discoveries in biology, medicine, clean energy, and the development of targeted cancer drugs.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011

Bioengineered veins offer new hope on horizon for patients lacking healthy veins for coronary bypass surgery or dialysis

Researchers have developed bioengineered veins that can be used in life-saving vascular surgeries, offering a promising solution for patients lacking suitable veins. The technology has shown promise in reducing complications and costs associated with traditional grafts used in coronary artery bypass grafting and hemodialysis.

SourceWest Mill Consulting·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

Could the humble sea cucumber save our seas?

At Newcastle University, a team led by Professor Selina Stead is investigating the potential of sea cucumbers as natural cleaners on fish farms, reducing waste's impact on ocean floors. The project aims to develop organic farming methods for both sea cucumber food and eco-friendly aquaculture.

SourceNewcastle University·DateFeb 2, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Shoo fly: Catnip oil repels bloodsucking flies

A report published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that catnip oil is 99% effective in repelling bloodsucking stable flies. The repellent action lasts for about three hours and has the potential to reduce cattle industry loses by $2 billion annually.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateFeb 2, 2011

An extra 5 years of life an unexpected benefit of osteoporosis treatment

Researchers found that people taking bisphosphonates lived longer than those without osteoporosis and even gained an extra five years of life. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, suggests a possible link between bone health and toxic metal release.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 2, 2011

UC San Diego engineers play role in warehouse fire safety

Researchers at UC San Diego have made a breakthrough discovery that can help predict where and how quickly initial fires spread in warehouses. The study focuses on corrugated cardboard, finding that it slows the rate of fire spread due to peeling layers, making it essential for designing warehouse protection systems.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCombustion and Flame·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

First new C. difficile drug in a generation superior to existing treatments: Researchers

Researchers at the Jewish General Hospital and University of Calgary conducted a large-scale phase 3 trial showing Fidaxomicin significantly reduces CDI recurrence rates. The new antibiotic demonstrates improved cure rates compared to existing licensed treatment vancomycin, offering hope for patients struggling with recurrences.

SourceJewish General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

Giant virus, tiny protein crystals show X-ray laser's power and potential

Researchers use X-ray laser to determine 3D structures of proteins and capture single-shot images of viruses, paving the way for snapshots and movies of molecules and microbes in action. The technique has the potential to decipher tens of thousands of protein structures and study infectious diseases.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Schizophrenia gene mutation found; target for new drugs

A gene mutation linked to schizophrenia has been identified and shows potential for treating the brain disorder with existing compounds. The mutation impacts a neuropeptide receptor VIPR2, which plays a crucial role in brain development and behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011

Synthetic materials that behave like mollusk shells

Scientists at Northwestern University have developed new artificial composites inspired by nature's toughest material, nacre. The study reveals the secret to its remarkable properties and demonstrates how to replicate them in man-made materials.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

The 'death switch' in sepsis also promotes survival

A recent study by researchers at Rhode Island Hospital has found that the protein RIP1 plays a dual role in sepsis, promoting both cell death and survival. The study suggests that RIP1 is necessary for survival during septic injury, and its pro-survival trigger may hold key to developing new treatments for sepsis.

SourceLifespan·JournalShock·DateFeb 2, 2011

Children's genes influence how well they take advantage of education

New research suggests that measures of school effectiveness are partly influenced by genetic factors in students. The study found that changes in student performance over time must be explained not only by the quality of the school environment but also by genetic factors that children bring to the classroom.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2011

Painful hip fractures strike breast cancer survivors

Researchers found that breast cancer treatment contributes to weakened bones in middle-aged women, leading to hip fractures. Six breast cancer survivors were studied over a year, showing difficulty with daily activities despite not having osteoporosis.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Nitrate improves mitochondrial function

New research from Karolinska Institutet shows that nitrate improves mitochondrial function in humans, consuming less oxygen and producing more ATP per molecule. This finding has significant implications for sports physiology and may also have positive effects on diseases involving mitochondrial dysfunction.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 2, 2011

Having a strong community protects adolescents from risky health behaviors

A new study published in Psychological Science found that poor adolescents living in communities with high social cohesiveness are less likely to smoke and have lower body mass indexes. This suggests that social capital may help mitigate the negative effects of childhood poverty on health outcomes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Prehabilitation better prepares patients for knee replacement surgery

Researchers at the University of Louisville developed an exercise program that improved leg strength and functional ability in patients with severe knee arthritis before knee replacement surgery. The study found significant gains in strength, but not in walking speed or other functional tasks.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalThe Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research·DateFeb 2, 2011

Earth's life support systems discussed in an open-access special issue

A new special issue explores the interconnectedness of life on Earth through biogeochemical cycles. Key findings highlight the crucial role of microbes like chemolithotrophic microbes in transforming raw materials into biomass, supporting complex food webs.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 2, 2011

An extra 5 years of life an unexpected benefit of osteoporosis treatment

A recent study found that people taking bisphosphonates for osteoporosis treatment live an extra five years compared to those not receiving the medication. This significant benefit is attributed to bisphosphonates' ability to reduce toxic metal release, which may contribute to improved health outcomes.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 2, 2011

Extreme X-ray pulses create unique image of intact virus

Scientists have successfully imaged an intact virus using extremely intensive and ultra-short x-ray pulses from the world's first X-ray free electron laser. This breakthrough technology enhances the possibilities of imaging individual biological molecules too small to study with conventional microscopes.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Accountable care at Academic Medical Centers: Lessons learned

Academic Medical Centers must adjust to new healthcare reform laws and adopt accountable care models. They need integrated systems, financial risk assessment, robust health IT platforms, and a culture shift towards quality care contributions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

Screening for cervical cancer low for immigrant women

A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that only one in five South Asian immigrants over 50 had a recent Pap test, compared to 79% of Canadian-born women with high-income neighborhoods and primary care doctors. The low screening rates may be due to cultural factors and lack of awareness about the importance of the test.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

GSA Bulletin highlights: New research posted Jan. 21-28

Scientists evaluated steady fault slip rate over 25 thousand years along the Altyn Tagh fault, providing constraints for Quaternary slip history. Chironomids were used to record terrestrial temperature changes in Arctic interglacials of the past 200,000 years.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Older adults often excluded from clinical trials

A recent study found that more than half of clinical trials exclude people based on their age or age-related conditions. This exclusion leaves healthcare providers in the dark when determining which treatment will best serve their patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

Field study of smoggy inversions to end

A field study has been conducted to investigate the causes of winter inversions in urban areas like Salt Lake City, which can trap pollutants and lead to poor air quality. The researchers used a range of methods, including weather balloons, cars, and gliders, to collect data on temperature, wind, and moisture.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateFeb 2, 2011

NIH researchers identify genetic cause of new vascular disease

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health's Undiagnosed Diseases Program have identified a novel disorder characterized by progressive and painful arterial calcification affecting the lower extremities. The condition, associated with mutations in the NT5E gene, has been observed in nine individuals from three unrelated families.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

UMD advance lights possible path to creating next-gen computer chips

University of Maryland researchers introduce a technique called RAPID lithography that uses visible light to create tiny integrated circuits comparable to shorter wavelength radiation. This breakthrough could lead to substantial savings in cost and ease of production for companies like Intel.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 2, 2011
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Vegans' elevated heart risk requires omega-3s and B12

A review of vegetarianism's biochemistry finds vegans at elevated risk for blood clots and atherosclerosis. Key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12 can mitigate this risk with dietary supplements or fortified foods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateFeb 2, 2011

Mayo researchers pinpoint how 1 cancer gene functions

A Mayo Clinic research team has pinpointed the function of the MMSET gene, revealing how it enables disease-causing mutations to occur. Normally-functioning MMSET plays a restorative role within the genome, but when impaired, cells lose the correct response to DNA damage.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011

The human genome's breaking points

A comprehensive analysis of human genomes identified 28,000 structural variants, including over 1,000 gene-altering mutations linked to diseases. The findings shed light on why some parts of the genome mutate more frequently than others.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Uterine health more important than egg quality

A new study published in Fertility and Sterility reveals that the health of a woman's uterus is more relevant than egg quality for a successful pregnancy outcome. The research found that babies born from frozen embryo transfer cycles had markedly greater birth weights compared to those born through standard IVF.

SourceTexas Children's Hospital·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateFeb 2, 2011

Rare meteorites reveal Mars collision caused water flow

Scientists have used rare Martian meteorite samples to reveal that a collision on Mars caused water to flow near the planet's surface. The research found veins created during an impact, which suggests that buried ice melted and deposited minerals such as clay and serpentine.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateFeb 2, 2011

ESA members take part in National Bed Bug Summit

Entomologists presented various methods of bed bug control, emphasizing prevention and non-chemical approaches. The summit highlighted the need for continued research into bed bugs, with a focus on improving public awareness and community involvement in control efforts.

SourceEntomological Society of America·DateFeb 2, 2011

Losing body fat before pregnancy can be beneficial for the baby

Researchers found that obese mothers who lost weight before pregnancy had healthier male offspring with reduced triglycerides and insulin resistance. The study suggests pre-pregnancy dietary intervention can reverse adverse metabolic effects of maternal obesity on offspring.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateFeb 2, 2011

All in the family: Lower back disease may be in your genes

A large-scale study found a significant genetic component in the development of symptomatic lumbar disc disease, with individuals with the condition more likely to have family members with disc disease. The study's findings support a genetic basis for the disease, although shared environmental risks cannot be ruled out.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 2, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

'Red mud' disaster's main threat to crops is not toxic metals

Scientists report that red mud's high alkalinity and salt content are the main threats to crop growth, not toxic metals or radioactivity. Adding gypsum can reduce alkalinity and accelerate salt removal, recommending long-term monitoring of metal levels in crops.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 2, 2011

New nanoparticles make blood clots visible

New nanoparticles designed to target fibrin in blood clots can be seen with a new type of CT scanner, providing early detection and potential treatment options for heart attacks. This technology has the potential to save lives by quickly identifying unstable plaque and guiding targeted treatments.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 2, 2011

A protein reinforces memory and prevents forgetfulness

A research study published in Nature found that IGF-II protein increases in the brain of rats after a learning session, reinforcing memory and preventing forgetfulness. The protein is essential for memory formation and consolidation, making it a potential target for therapies enhancing cognitive function.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Migraine surgery offers good long-term outcomes

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that nearly 90% of patients experienced at least partial relief from migraine headaches after five years. The surgery targets 'trigger sites' in the muscles or nerves producing pain, with significant improvements in quality of life.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 2, 2011

MicroRNA cocktail helps turn skin cells into stem cells

A team at Sanford-Burnham identified specific microRNAs that enhance the reprogramming process from skin cells to induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Adding these miRNAs increases cell survival and improves iPS cell generation.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Flash of fresh insight by electrical brain stimulation

Researchers have discovered that electrical stimulation of the anterior temporal lobes can increase an individual's ability to reach fresh insights and solve complex problems. This breakthrough could potentially revolutionize the way we approach creative problem-solving.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2011

Biologists discover 'control center' for sperm production

A new study has identified DUO1, a genetic hierarchy that governs sperm cell production and fertility in flowering plants. The research found that DUO1 acts as a master switch to ensure twin fertile sperm cells are made in each pollen grain.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateFeb 2, 2011

GOES-13 Satellite sees Groundhog's Day on ice

A massive winter storm hit the US, with some areas receiving record-breaking snowfall. The GOES-13 satellite data suggests that Punxsutawney Phil may not have seen his shadow, potentially altering the traditional Groundhog Day prediction.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2011
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.

Metabolic syndrome linked to memory loss in older people

A study published in Neurology found that older people with metabolic syndrome are 20% more likely to experience cognitive decline on memory tests. Higher triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol were linked to poorer memory scores.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 2, 2011

Six small planets orbiting a sun-like star amaze astronomers

The Kepler-11 system features five inner planets with masses between 2.3 and 13.5 times that of Earth, orbiting within 50 days, and a sixth planet with an orbital period of 118 days. The planets' densities suggest they may be mostly water or hydrogen-helium gases, defying expectations for small hot planets.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011

New age researchers highlight how man is changing the world

Researchers at University of Leicester introduce the Anthropocene, a geological epoch marked by significant human impact on the environment. The studies highlight effects of population growth, megacities, and fossil fuel use on global warming, sea level rise, and biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateFeb 2, 2011

Lampreys give clues to evolution of immune system

Primitive lampreys have structures within their gills that play a role similar to the thymus, where T cells develop in mammals and birds. The finding suggests two separate organs for immune cell development preceded the appearance of key features like antibodies and T cell receptors.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2011
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 cool way to make glass

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a new way to melt glass by cooling it to near Absolute Zero, using quantum mechanics to defy classical physics. This breakthrough could pave the way for future materials science discoveries.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 2, 2011