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Science News for September 13, 2011


The American Society for Microbiology honors Andrea Endimiani

Andrea Endimiani has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on the impact of drug resistance traits on infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. He has also made significant contributions to understanding the prevalence of KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in multiple US cities.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 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.

Healthy lifestyle habits lower heart failure risk

Research found that engaging in one healthy lifestyle behavior can decrease heart failure risk, while each additional behavior further reduces the risk. Key findings include: regular physical activity and a diet rich in vegetables lowering risk by 21-33% and 26-27%, respectively.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 13, 2011

Separating a cancer prevention drug from heart disease risk

Researchers at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University have identified a way to keep the cancer-preventive properties of celecoxib while avoiding its risks. The study shows that celecoxib inhibits an enzyme called GSK3 in lung cancer cells, causing apoptosis and disappearance of a protein called c-FLIP.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 13, 2011

Patent awarded for 'method and system of controlling airfoil actuators'

Researchers developed intelligent airfoil design that can sense changes in airflow and adjust surface conditions using synthetic jets to reduce fatigue and enhance lift. The technology has potential applications in aerospace vehicles and renewable energy sector, with the goal of improving turbine performance and reducing unsteady loads.

SourceSyracuse University·DateSep 13, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Motor memory: The long and short of it

Researchers found that short-term and long-term motor memory compete against each other, with switching between tasks improving retention. USC scientists' discovery could lead to optimized computer programs for stroke patient rehabilitation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateSep 13, 2011

Researchers crack genetic codes for medicinal plant species

Researchers from across Canada have identified the genetic makeup of 75 medicinal plant species, making them available to scientists and the public online. The discovery has the potential to develop new technologies to re-create plant pathways in microbes, creating effective medicines and chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·DateSep 13, 2011

Shaping up: Controlling a stem cell's form can determine its fate

New research at NIST finds that controlling stem cell shape can induce specific types of cells, offering a simpler and cheaper alternative to biochemical supplements. The study compared five scaffold designs and found that only one, nanofiber scaffolds, successfully directed stem cells into bone-like structures.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalBiomaterials·DateSep 13, 2011

In immune cells, 'super-res' imaging reveals natural killers' M.O.

Researchers used a 'super-res' microscope to study the immune system and found that granules from natural killer cells pass through openings in dynamic cell structures to destroy tumor cells and infected cells. This discovery may lead to more effective treatments for inherited diseases that impair the immune system.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 13, 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.

Using lasers to vaporize tissue at multiple points simultaneously

Using a single UV laser pulse, researchers can now zap away biological tissue at multiple points simultaneously. This technique allows scientists to isolate specific cells and observe their shape dictated solely by internal forces. The method has potential applications in developmental biology and bioengineering.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateSep 13, 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.

Plant compound reduces breast cancer mortality

Researchers at Helmholtz Association find that phytoestrogens, particularly lignans and their metabolite enterolactone, may help reduce breast cancer mortality. Enterolactone levels are linked to clinical disease progression and mortality risk, with higher levels associated with lower risk.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 13, 2011

Henry Ford study links 23 microRNAs to laryngeal cancer

A Henry Ford Hospital study has identified 23 microRNAs specific to laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, a form of head and neck cancer. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of what causes certain cells to grow and become cancerous tumors.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateSep 13, 2011

Does race dictate quality of care?

A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that African American patients are less likely to be admitted to high-volume hospitals for total knee replacement surgery, receiving instead lower-quality care. This racial disparity affects access to high-quality arthroplasty care.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateSep 13, 2011

Science finding is music to the ears

A study of 74 musicians and 89 non-musicians found that being a musician can delay age-related decline in central auditory processing, allowing older musicians to understand speech in noisy environments as well as younger non-musicians. This advantage was particularly pronounced for older musicians.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateSep 13, 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.

Protein found in heart may be target for colon cancer therapies

Researchers have identified a protein that plays a critical role in heart development and may also be a therapeutic target for halting colon cancer metastasis. BVES expression was found to be low in all stages of colon cancer and decreased levels were observed in many other types of epithelial cancers.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 13, 2011

Outsmarting algae -- RIT scientist finds the turn-off switch

Researchers have deciphered the structure of an essential enzyme in photosynthetic organisms, a target for algaecide development. This discovery could lead to the creation of compounds that block the enzyme's function, inhibiting algae growth without harming other plant life.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalActa Crystallographica·DateSep 13, 2011

Diabetes public health: UCSF study highlights need for better guidelines

A survey of federally funded programs in 57 US states and territories found a need for specific, adapted diabetes treatment guidelines. Current national guidelines may not be optimal within each state's resources, and officials lack scientific evidence to adapt them.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 13, 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.

Study finds chronic abnormal brain blood flow in Gulf War veterans

A new study has confirmed that abnormal brain blood flow continues or worsens over time in veterans with Gulf War illness. The research used a novel technique to assess hippocampal regional cerebral blood flow and identified a special MRI procedure to diagnose the condition more accurately.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 13, 2011

TheSkyNet launched

TheSkyNet project allows public to contribute spare computing power to radio astronomy data processing. The initiative aims to complement primary data processing work of supercomputing facilities, generating real outcomes for scientific research.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·DateSep 13, 2011

Relation of alcohol consumption to colorectal cancer

A meta-analysis of 22 studies from around the world found a strong association between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The study suggests that even moderate drinking can increase the risk, particularly at higher levels of consumption.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 13, 2011

NASA awards $100,000 for space exploration power systems

NASA has awarded a $100,000 grant to Penn State researcher Michael V. Paul for developing non-radioisotope power systems. The project aims to explore sunless solar system missions using metal-combustion engines, which could enable low-cost planetary exploration without relying on radioisotope power sources.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 13, 2011
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.

NASA'S Webb telescope completes mirror-coating milestone

The mirrors of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope have completed the coating process with a microscopically thin layer of gold, enabling the telescope to observe extremely faint objects in infrared light. This achievement marks another major success story for the Webb telescope mirrors, ensuring even more scientific discovery potential.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 13, 2011

Smithsonian conservation team develops new technique for dating silk

The Smithsonian Museum Conservation Institute has developed a fast and reliable method to date silk using capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry. This technique measures the natural deterioration of silk's amino acids to determine its age, providing a scientific clock for estimating silk's age.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 13, 2011

IUD reduces the risk of cervical cancer

A large-scale study has found that intrauterine devices (IUDs) may protect against cervical cancer. The research involved over 20,000 women from different countries and revealed a significant reduction in cervical cancer risk among IUD users.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateSep 13, 2011

Primary schoolchildren that sleep less than 9 hours do not perform

A study by the Autonomous University of Barcelona found that children who sleep less than nine hours per night have worse academic skills and cognitive development. Parents are advised to establish a bedtime routine and ensure their children go to bed on time to maintain healthy sleep patterns.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalCultura y Educación·DateSep 13, 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.

Study predicts sea level rise may take economic toll on California coast

A new study predicts that California beach towns will experience significant economic losses due to sea level rise, with visitor hotspots like Venice Beach facing up to $440 million in tourism revenue losses. The study also found that accelerated erosion could cause up to $540 million worth of damage at San Francisco's Ocean Beach.

SourceSan Francisco State University·DateSep 13, 2011

Bats adjust their 'field-of-view'

Egyptian fruit bats exhibit sophisticated spatial orientation using echolocation, adjusting their 'field-of-view' by altering sonar beam width and intensity in response to environmental complexity. This adaptability enables them to track targets and avoid collisions in dense environments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 13, 2011

Breakthrough opens new avenues for hep C vaccine

Researchers have identified two weak points in the hepatitis C virus that could be targeted by a new vaccine. The discovery uses next-generation deep sequencing and computer analytics to track changes in the virus after infection, revealing opportunities for effective vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 13, 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.

The American Society for Microbiology honors Alison Criss

Alison K. Criss, a young investigator at the University of Virginia, receives the ICAAC Young Investigator Award for her outstanding research on bacterial pathogenesis. Her work focuses on the interactions between Neisseria gonorrhoeae and host cells, with implications for understanding bacterial evasion mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2011

Primary schoolchildren can be great tutors

A trial of peer tutoring in Scotland's primary schools found that children as young as seven to eight years old can benefit from a twenty-minute weekly session. The boost to school pupils' attainment provided by peer tutoring was equivalent to about three months progress in both maths and reading.

SourceDurham University·JournalSchool Effectiveness and School Improvement·DateSep 13, 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.

The American Society for Microbiology honors Benjamin P. Howden

Benjamin P. Howden, a leading expert in S. aureus and E. faecium research, receives the award for his groundbreaking work on antimicrobial resistance mechanisms and virulence. His research has led to new insights into vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus and reduced linezolid susceptibility.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2011

A 3-D reconstructed image of neural dendritic trees using the advanced electron microscope technology

The study reveals that neurons normalize receiving signals by adjusting their morphological characteristics, making it easier to receive farther signals. The research team's 3D image reconstruction of minute dendritic tree morphology demonstrates the size and distance of dendritic trees determine signal clarity and strength.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 13, 2011

Double jeopardy: Building codes may underestimate risks due to multiple hazards

Researchers warn that building codes may overestimate safety in regions prone to both seismic and wind hazards, increasing the risk of structural damage. A new method assesses combined risks using a common metric, showing that dual-hazard conditions can double the risk of failure.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Structural Engineering·DateSep 13, 2011

Breaching the blood-brain barrier

Researchers found that adenosine can modulate the entry of large molecules into the brain, establishing a gateway into the blood-brain barrier. They successfully transported large dextrans and antibodies into the brain using an FDA-approved drug, Lexiscan.

SourceCornell University·DateSep 13, 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.

More evidence that spicing up broccoli boosts its cancer-fighting power

A new study from the University of Illinois found that pairing broccoli with spicy foods containing myrosinase significantly enhances its individual cancer-fighting power. This is achieved by ensuring absorption takes place in the upper digestive system, where sulforaphane can be quickly and effectively released.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateSep 13, 2011

Gene flux can foretell survival for trauma patients, Princeton study finds

Researchers at Princeton University found that changes in gene activity consistently coincided with the worsening of a patient's condition. The study used blood samples from 168 blunt-force trauma patients and identified two sets of genes that showed massive fluctuations in expression as patients developed complications and neared death.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 13, 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.

Alley to receive Heinz award

Richard Alley, a leading climate researcher, is recognized for his groundbreaking work on abrupt climate change. His discovery that the last Ice Age ended in just three years has debunked the myth of slow climate change and highlights the need for urgent action.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 13, 2011

Informed consent processes need local adaptation

Researchers from KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Programme in Kenya modified informed consent processes to consider local social, cultural, and economic contexts. Locally adapted communication processes strengthened informed consent, particularly in international research.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 13, 2011

UCLA psychologists discover a gene's link to optimism, self-esteem

Researchers identified the oxytocin receptor gene OXTR as linked to psychological resources, finding that people with specific variants have lower levels of optimism and higher depressive symptoms. The study suggests training oneself in optimism, self-esteem, and mastery can improve coping skills.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 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.

Pituitary hormone TSH found to directly influence bone growth

A new study from Mount Sinai School of Medicine reveals that thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) directly influences bone growth, contrary to its usual thyroid functions. The findings suggest TSH may be a novel method for addressing bone production and could lead to innovative treatments for osteoporosis.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2011

New technique elucidates dynamics of plant cell metabolites

Researchers developed a novel technique to analyze metabolite concentrations at high spatial resolution in plant cells. The study found that metabolites are regulated and fluctuate under stress conditions, highlighting the role of the vacuole in cellular processes.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateSep 13, 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.

Small molecule receptor detects lipid's telltale sign of cell death

Researchers developed a small molecule receptor that can detect a lipid molecule revealing cellular death, particularly in cancer cells targeted by anti-cancer drugs. The discovery could enable oncologists to determine the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs in days rather than weeks.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 13, 2011

New UNH data tests the exercise 'talk test'

A study by UNH exercise scientists confirms the Talk Test's effectiveness in gauging exercise intensity, but reveals it relates best to lactate threshold and not ventilatory threshold. The test involves rating comfort while speaking during exercise.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalJournal of Sports Sciences·DateSep 13, 2011

SDSC-developed software used in first global camera trap mammal study

A novel software system developed by SDSC researchers was used in the first global camera trap study of mammals, documenting 105 species across seven protected areas. The study confirms that habitat loss and smaller reserves have a direct impact on mammal diversity and survival.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London·DateSep 13, 2011

Rebooting psychotherapy

Several prominent scientists respond to a call for rethinking the current approach to mental health care, highlighting innovative programs like those developed by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. The authors emphasize the need to reduce the burden of mental illness in the United States through improved treatment and accessibility.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateSep 13, 2011

Observations of climate change from indigenous Alaskans

Alaska Natives have reported warming temperatures, changes in vegetation patterns, and unpredictable weather conditions, affecting their traditional way of life. Thinning ice shortens winter travel seasons and hampers subsistence activities, while lower snowmelt flows strain local economies.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalHuman Organization·DateSep 13, 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.

New imaging technique evaluates nerve damage

A new imaging technique allows researchers to assess nerve damage and healing in live patients, providing a non-invasive method for diagnosing nerve injuries. The technique uses lasers to create images of individual neurons' insulating sheaths, revealing the extent of myelin loss and recovery.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateSep 13, 2011

Evaluating doctoral programs in African universities

A new evidence-based tool has been developed to evaluate doctoral programs in African universities, incorporating perspectives from students, staff, and policy makers. The tool aims to strengthen capacity and justify external funding inputs, benefiting universities across different countries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 13, 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 American Society for Microbiology honors Zachary A. Klase

Zachary A. Klase has been awarded the ICAAC Young Investigator Award for his groundbreaking research on HIV-1 pathogenesis and RNA interference mechanisms in mammalian cells. His work focuses on understanding HIV transcription regulation, microRNA processing, and innate immune signaling.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2011

The American Society for Microbiology honors Jörn Coers

Jörn Coers is honored by the American Society for Microbiology for his work on immune responses against intracellular pathogens. His research focuses on host-pathogen interactions and has revealed key insights into diseases caused by Chlamydia.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 13, 2011