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Science News for February 9, 2011


The recycled port

The STABCON project developed a cost-effective solution for treating polluted sediments in ports, using the stabilisation and solidification method. The method involves mixing contaminated sediments with products that bind them to create a solid material containing hazardous substances, reducing environmental harm and costs.

SourceEUREKA·DateFeb 9, 2011

Poorer patients have more severe ischemic strokes, study indicates

A new study from the University of Cincinnati found that patients with lower socioeconomic status have worse stroke severity at presentation. Researchers analyzed 1,933 cases of ischemic stroke and discovered that poorer patients had significantly increased initial stroke severity.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateFeb 9, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cross-border conservation vital to protect birds in a climate-change world

A new conservation index helps policy-makers deal with the effects of climate change on birds in Africa, suggesting that international cooperation is essential to protect species. The study predicts that one-third of protected areas will undergo significant changes due to climate change.

SourceDurham University·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 9, 2011

A green way to cap an old landfill

The pilot project uses a vegetative cap made from topsoil, compost, and tree and shrub planting to seal the old landfill. This approach reduces methane emissions and prevents rainfall from penetrating into groundwater, ultimately improving the health of the Chesapeake Bay by sequestering carbon.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateFeb 9, 2011

Researchers find public sector research responsible for many new drug discoveries

Researchers found that public sector research played a significant role in discovering new drugs and vaccines, particularly those targeting cancer and infectious diseases. Over 30 years, 153 new FDA-approved drugs and vaccines were discovered through research conducted in public sector institutions.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 9, 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.

NSF funds study of landscape restoration effects on Pennsylvania stream

Scientists at Stroud Water Research Center are investigating how a stream's ecosystem changes as trees along the banks mature. The five-year NSF grant will provide funding for new data collection using cutting-edge technologies to study physical, chemical, and biological attributes of the stream.

SourceStroud Water Research Center·DateFeb 9, 2011

Personal well-being is linked to national satisfaction, especially when times are tough

A new study of people from 128 countries found that those who are satisfied with their country tend to have better lives, especially those with low incomes or living in poor countries. For people with high incomes and Western countries, well-being is linked to personal factors like health, standard of living, and job satisfaction.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 9, 2011

Firefly protein lights pathway to improved detection of blood clots

Scientists developed a new medical imaging agent using firefly luciferase that emits near-infrared light, successfully detecting factor Xa proteins in laboratory experiments. The discovery offers promise for improved monitoring of heparin therapy and treatment of blood clots.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBioconjugate Chemistry·DateFeb 9, 2011

Motorcycle helmets reduce spine injuries after collisions

New research from Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that motorcycle helmets are associated with a lower risk of cervical spine injury. The study found that helmeted riders were 22% less likely to suffer spinal injuries compared to those without helmets.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 9, 2011

UK companies respond to recession by 'training smarter,' study finds

Despite recession fears, UK companies have adapted by focusing on key business needs, organizing in-house courses, and using staff as trainers. Total expenditure on training has reduced only slightly, with an overwhelming majority of employers recognizing essential 'training floors' to support workforce multi-skills.

SourceCardiff University·DateFeb 9, 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.

The 'new' kilogram is approaching

The Avogadro project has achieved a milestone in measuring the Avogadro constant with unprecedented precision, using a highly enriched single crystal of silicon-28. The measurement uncertainty has been reduced to 3 × 10^(-22), enabling a more accurate definition of the kilogram based on fundamental constants.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 9, 2011

Scientists discover gene regulation mechanism unique to primates

Researchers have identified a new way genes are regulated that is unique to primates, involving Alu elements and long noncoding RNAs. This mechanism could prove to be a valuable treatment target as researchers seek to manipulate gene expression to improve human health.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2011

Ancient teeth raise new questions about the origins of modern man

Researchers uncover eight ancient teeth in Israel that are similar to those of modern humans, sparking new questions about the origins of Homo sapiens. The discovery, part of a larger excavation at the Qesem cave site, provides valuable insights into early human evolution and migration patterns.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateFeb 9, 2011

Sweeping view of prostate cancer genome yields deep insights

Whole genome sequencing reveals new genes tied to prostate cancer growth, including those disrupting tumor suppressors and heat shock proteins. The study identifies genomic rearrangements that may be driving cancer development and suggests a link between gene activity and DNA rearrangement.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 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.

Greener process for key ingredient for everything from paint to diapers

Researchers have developed a new catalyst that efficiently converts lactic acid into acrylic acid at lower temperatures, offering a sustainable alternative for producing essential industrial materials. This breakthrough could lead to reduced fuel consumption and decreased environmental impact.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Catalysis·DateFeb 9, 2011
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.

Human and mouse studies sharpen focus on cause of celiac disease

A new study has identified interleukin 15 as a key trigger for the development of celiac disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Blocking this molecule could potentially prevent the disease, and its effects on inflammatory intestinal diseases may also offer new insights into treating conditions like acne and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2011
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.

Behavioral problems linked to cortisol levels

Researchers found cortisol levels increase when behavior problems first appear, then decrease if issues persist. Interventions should start as soon as behavioral problems emerge to address mental and physical health concerns.

SourceConcordia University·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateFeb 9, 2011

Key to better health care may be a walk in the park

Investing in public parks and recreational services can lead to increased physical activity, better health outcomes, and a less strained healthcare system. The research suggests that the quality of these services has a direct impact on resident fitness levels and overall well-being.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 9, 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.

Soil science: Healing our planet's ills from the ground up

The article highlights the importance of soil in addressing societal and ecological pressures. Soil scientists recommend refocusing research on urgent issues, broadening their vision to entire ecosystems, and improving communication to protect the planet's fragile home.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateFeb 9, 2011

Drug-eluting stents are preferred therapy for revascularization of chronic total occlusions

A systematic review found drug-eluting stents (DES) reduce restenosis and target revascularization in chronic total occlusions, offering a safe approach with similar adverse events as bare metal stents. DES implantation is associated with significant reductions in angiographic and clinical restenosis compared to bare metal stents.

SourceWiley·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateFeb 9, 2011

Stardust NExT set to meet its second comet

The Stardust NExT spacecraft will visit comet Tempel 1, taking photos of the crater formed during the Deep Impact mission. It will also measure particle size and distribution, and analyze their composition.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateFeb 9, 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.

Young people now take longer to join adult life

Research by the Autonomous University of Barcelona reveals that young Spanish people are taking longer to transition into adult life. The study found that the average age at which young people gained full independence rose from 22-24 in 1981 to 28-30 in 2001, a six-year delay.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalRevista Española de Investigaciones Sociológicas·DateFeb 9, 2011

Searching for the soul of the genome

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, develop novel method to detect long-distance chromosomal interactions and find association with CAD risk from altered inflammatory signaling response. The study identifies 33 regulatory elements in the 9p21 interval involved in cellular signaling and response to inflammation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2011

Biogeochemistry at the core of global environmental solutions

A new framework for understanding biogeochemical cycles highlights the importance of balancing human needs with the health of the planet. This integrated view could help predict and manage climate change, improve sustainable forestry practices, and balance agricultural needs with estuary health.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 9, 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.

Researchers identify the genotype of disorders causing cardiac sudden death syndrome

Long QT syndrome affects approximately 1 in 2500 people and can cause torsade de pointes episodes leading to sudden death. Researchers identified KCNH2 as the most frequent mutation in patients with long QT syndrome, highlighting the potential for genetic testing to diagnose the condition in carriers without symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalRevista Española de Cardiología·DateFeb 9, 2011

Chicago Biomedical Consortium receives funding renewal

The Chicago Biomedical Consortium has secured a five-year funding extension of $25 million from the Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust. This support fuels innovative multi-institutional collaborations, resulting in over 200 published papers and $118 million in grants.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateFeb 9, 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.

Extra testosterone reduces your empathy

A new study from University of Cambridge found that testosterone administration negatively affects women's ability to mind read, an indication of empathy. The effects are predicted by a fetal marker of prenatal testosterone, the 2D:4D ratio.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2011

Fetal surgery takes a huge step forward in treating children with spina bifida

A landmark study by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia shows fetal surgery for spina bifida can improve outcomes for children with the condition. Fetal surgery significantly reduced the need to divert fluid from the brain, improved mobility, and increased the chances that a child will be able to walk independently.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2011

Drug may improve outcomes in mild stroke patients, save $200 million annually

Researchers analyzed hospital records from 437 patients diagnosed with mild ischemic stroke, finding that treating them with a proven clot-busting drug could reduce the number of disabled patients by 2,176-3,761 per year. This treatment approach has the potential to save an estimated $200 million annually in disability costs.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 9, 2011
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.

Microsponges from seaweed may save lives

Researchers create microsponges that capture biomarkers, enabling rapid disease diagnosis with high accuracy. The technology has the potential to replace traditional diagnostic methods at a lower cost.

SourceRice University·JournalSmall·DateFeb 9, 2011

Photodynamic therapy against cancer

Researchers found that photodynamic therapy can eliminate tumor-associated lymphatic vessels and in-transit tumor cells, reducing metastasis. This approach could be combined with existing surgical techniques to destroy lymphatic vessels draining from tumors.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2011

Memory problems may be sign of stroke risk

A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that individuals with memory problems are at a higher risk for stroke. The research used two simple tests to evaluate brain function and found that those who scored in the bottom 20% were 3-9 times more likely to experience a stroke, depending on age.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 9, 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.

Virtual laboratory predicts train vibrations

Researchers developed a virtual laboratory model to predict train vibrations, taking into account elasticity, density, and thickness of materials. The model was validated on the Madrid-Barcelona high speed line and will be applied to other rail facilities in future studies.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalMathematical and Computer Modelling·DateFeb 9, 2011

Sharp rise in street drug usage among stroke patients, study shows

Researchers found a significant increase in street drug use among stroke patients, from 0.5% to 4.6% between 1993 and 2005. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, suggests that street drug use may be contributing to rising stroke incidence among younger age groups.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateFeb 9, 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.

Neural mechanisms linked with vulnerability to anxiety

A study published in Neuron reveals that individual differences in amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex function are independently associated with anxiety vulnerability. High trait anxiety individuals show enhanced amygdala response and faster fear acquisition, while vmPFC recruitment is linked to reduced fear responses in fear-...

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 9, 2011

Delving into manganite conductivity

Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding manganite conductivity by linking it to the Jahn-Teller effect. At ambient pressure, manganites exhibit insulating properties, but applying intense pressure causes them to transition to a metallic state, which conducts electric charges.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 9, 2011

A race against time to find Apollo 14's lost voyagers

Hundreds of 'moon trees,' planted by Apollo 14 astronaut Stuart Roosa in 1971, are living out their lives across the US. As some die or succumb to disease, NASA's Dave Williams is racing against time to find and record the remaining trees' locations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 9, 2011

New research suggests tart cherries could speed muscle recovery

Researchers found daily tart cherry juice consumption reduced muscle damage and improved recovery time by 5% in athletes. The study suggests antioxidant-rich anthocyanins in cherry juice may decrease oxidative damage to muscles, allowing for faster recovery.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateFeb 9, 2011

AGU journal highlights -- Feb. 9, 2011

A new study suggests the Arctic Ocean ice may not reach a catastrophic tipping point due to climate change. Microearthquakes could help evaluate potential carbon sequestration sites by detecting fractures in rocks. This technique could pinpoint unknown fractures that could lead to long-term storage of carbon dioxide.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 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.

New study finds eyewitness memory susceptible to misinformation after testing

A new Iowa State University study found that subjects who witnessed a criminal event and were tested about it immediately afterward were more susceptible to having misinformation instilled in their later recall of the event. This effect, known as retrieval-enhanced suggestibility, may lead to false convictions in criminal cases.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateFeb 9, 2011

Advanced macular degeneration is associated with an increased risk

Research finds late-stage age-related macular degeneration associated with a 56% increased risk of any type of stroke. Specifically, late AMD was strongly linked to over six times the risk of brain hemorrhage but not with brain infarction, according to a study presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 9, 2011

Tobacco companies expand their epidemic of death

The tobacco industry is expanding its sales in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific, with Imperial Tobacco and Phillip Morris reporting increases in cigarette sales. The Lancet Editorial criticizes the companies' 'selling, addicting, and killing' business model, describing it as 'morally repugnant'.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 9, 2011

Sweeping view of prostate cancer genome yields deep insights

The study reveals several new prostate cancer genes, including those disrupting tumor suppressor proteins and rearrangements that create new genes. These findings may provide insights into the disease's development and suggest potential diagnostic markers and new treatments for aggressive forms of prostate cancer.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2011
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.

Simple marine worms distantly related to humans

Research published in Nature reveals that simple marine worms Xenoturbella and Acoelomorpha are distantly related to humans and other complex species. The findings suggest that these organisms have evolved backwards into simpler forms, shedding light on the early stages of animal evolution.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2011

Challenges for biofuels: New life cycle assessment report from Energy Biosciences Institute

A new life cycle assessment report from the Energy Biosciences Institute identifies seven grand challenges for biofuels, including understanding farmers, feedstock options, and land use, as well as characterizing tailpipe emissions and their health consequences. The report aims to provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the en...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateFeb 9, 2011

University of Cincinnati researcher honored with award at stroke conference

A University of Cincinnati researcher won a prestigious award for his study on familial intracranial aneurysms and their genetic connection. The research found that concordance in the location of aneurysms within families was higher than between families, suggesting a heritable component to anatomic vulnerability.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateFeb 9, 2011
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.

Everolimus improves progression-free survival for patients with rare pancreatic cancer

A Phase III trial found that everolimus significantly improved progression-free survival for patients with advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, reducing the risk by 65% and increasing median progression-free survival by over six months. Common side effects include stomatitis, rash, diarrhea, fatigue, and infections.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2011

Fetal surgery, pioneered at UCSF, is more effective than operating after birth

The eight-year trial shows prenatal surgery reduces fluid diversion needs, improves mental development and motor function, and increases the likelihood of a child walking unassisted. Fetal surgery is now considered a better option than waiting for corrective surgery after birth for patients with myelomeningocele.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2011

Understanding patterns of seafloor biomass

A comprehensive database analysis found a strong positive relationship between surface production and organic matter export, driving predicted patterns of seafloor biomass. Seafloor biomass is highest around the poles and equator due to nutrient-rich upwelling waters, while central abyssal plains exhibit consistently low values.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 9, 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.