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Science News for December 1, 2005


In video games, not all mayhem is created equal

Research by Iowa State University researchers found that rewarded violence in video games significantly increases aggressive thoughts and behavior, as well as feelings of hostility. In contrast, punishment did not affect aggressive behavior but had a lesser impact on hostile feelings and aggressive thoughts.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 1, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

DOE JGI releases fourth version of IMG in 2005

The fourth version of IMG, a collaborative effort between DOE JGI and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, adds organism phenotype characterizations and enhances comparative analysis capabilities. The update features extended Analysis Carts and improved functional profiles across organisms.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·DateDec 1, 2005

MicroRNA may have fail-safe role in limb development

Researchers have identified a specific microRNA - miR 196 - playing a protective role in hindlimb development, but not forelimb development, suggesting a fail-safe mechanism to regulate gene expression. This finding may be useful in understanding birth defects and has implications for the regulation of protein expression in limbs.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature·DateDec 1, 2005

Study looks at factors influencing African-American women's decisions to join cancer screening trial

African-American women who joined a cancer screening trial had better understanding of cancer and early detection, motivated by loved one's experience with cancer. The study suggests targeted strategies to improve recruitment, including providing health benefits and informing physicians about clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 1, 2005

Atherosclerosis studied at the cellular level

A recent study found that nitric oxide, normally considered protective against atherosclerosis, can be converted into peroxynitrite, causing cell dysfunction and death. This reaction activates the ER stress response pathway, leading to devastating cytotoxic effects and accelerating atherosclerosis.

SourceMcMaster University·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

Coffee and tea can reduce the risk of chronic liver disease

A recent study published by the American Gastroenterological Association found that consuming more than two cups of coffee or tea per day can reduce the risk of chronic liver disease by half. Researchers discovered that caffeine played a significant role in this protective effect, suggesting potential applications for liver health.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateDec 1, 2005

Uncontrolled use of artemisinin leading to drug-resistant malaria

Research in three countries found that uncontrolled use of artemisinin led to resistance in Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Mutations in the gene SERCA-type Pftpase6 were associated with this loss of sensitivity. The study highlights the need for increased vigilance and rapid deployment of drug combinations.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

Scientists unlock solid tumor treatment genetic secrets

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that histone deacetylase enzymes cooperate with CBP/p300 histone acetylases to trigger expression of genes responding to hypoxia. The study suggests that developing new therapies targeting both mechanisms may enhance treatment efficacy for solid tumors.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateDec 1, 2005

'Long' distances measured with picometer accuracy

A new laser-based method for measuring millimeter distances has been developed and demonstrated by a physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The technique measures frequency rather than wavelength, achieving an uncertainty of 10 picometers.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of the Optical Society of America·DateDec 1, 2005

Picking particles faster than one at a time

A new algorithm, 'particle picking by segmentation,' enables fast and reliable selection of images for 'crystallization in silico' from millions of candidates. By focusing on background noise, the approach improves yields over existing methods.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Structural Biology·DateDec 1, 2005

Needle-free immunizations

Researchers are developing new methods for immunization, including transdermal and nasal delivery, which could prevent needle-caused infections and reduce economic burdens. Interdisciplinary efforts are underway to make needle-free immunizations a common practice.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Reviews Immunology·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

NIST assists with testing crash avoidance system

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has designed preliminary test procedures to measure the performance of the Integrated Vehicle-Based Safety System (IVBSS). The IVBSS aims to detect and warn drivers of potential crashes at different speeds and in various driving situations. NIST will observe contractor tests and...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateDec 1, 2005

Studying substitute animals will not save endangered species

The study highlights the limitations of using surrogate animals to predict endangered species decline, arguing that target species are more relevant. The authors advocate directly examining the target species before resorting to substitute animals.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalConservation Biology·DateDec 1, 2005

Light to moderate alcohol consumption not beneficial to health

Research published in The Lancet suggests that light to moderate alcohol consumption may have little to no health benefits, outweighing the potential harms. Professor Rod Jackson's findings emphasize that there is no 'safe' window for drinking, and individuals should avoid consuming alcohol altogether.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

Child poverty going down, due to more mothers working

A study by Cornell University researchers found that child poverty rates have decreased in recent years, particularly among children whose mothers work full-time. However, significant racial and ethnic disparities persist, with black and Hispanic children facing higher poverty rates than their white counterparts.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Science Quarterly·DateDec 1, 2005

Highlights from the December Journal of the American Dietetic Association

French fries prepared with non-hydrogenated cottonseed oil have significantly lower trans-fatty acids and saturated fat compared to those made with partially hydrogenated canola or soybean oil. Fruits and vegetables are ranked highest for nutrient density, providing key nutrients at a reasonable cost.

SourceAmerican Dietetic Association·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateDec 1, 2005

PCBs, furans may factor in risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Researchers have found a potential association between high blood levels of PCBs and furans with an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The study analyzed blood samples from 100 healthy volunteers and 100 non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients, revealing a link between three specific molecular forms of PCBs and cancer development.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

Moderate to severe sleep-disordered breathing can lead to stroke

A long-term study found that individuals with moderate to severe sleep-disordered breathing have a significantly increased odds of suffering a stroke over the next four years. The study analyzed data from 1,475 participants and revealed that 21 people suffered their first-ever stroke at an average age of 53.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 1, 2005

Iron-rich rice improves iron status of women

A nine-month study found that consuming biofortified, iron-rich rice improved the iron status of women, increasing it by 20% compared to traditional rice. Non-anemic women with low body iron reserves and those who consumed more rice showed the greatest improvements.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateDec 1, 2005

Institute for OneWorld Health receives multimillion dollar grant

The Institute for OneWorld Health has received a multimillion-dollar grant from the Gates Foundation to combat VL, a fatal disease transmitted by sand flies. The grant will support a long-term control program, including Phase 4 demonstration studies and clinical trials in children.

SourceInstitute for OneWorld Health·DateDec 1, 2005

Preventing bacterial biofilms could help fight TB

Researchers discovered that GroEL1 oversees production of fatty acids necessary for biofilm growth, which are absent in bacteria lacking the chaperone protein. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new ways to develop effective drugs to fight TB and other mycobacterial infections.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

'Go Fishing' no game for inland waters worldwide

Research highlights rapidly declining fish numbers in inland waters globally, with total catch quadrupling since 1950 and biodiversity at risk. Inland water fishing pressure shifts from species to species, leading to ecosystem collapse if left unmanaged.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalBioScience·DateDec 1, 2005

Nano-cages 'fill up' with hydrogen

NIST researchers discovered that metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can store up to 10% of their weight in hydrogen at low temperatures. The nano-cage structure offers a promising approach for storing and releasing hydrogen, which could potentially replace fossil fuels in future automobiles.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 1, 2005

Grant advances web portal for US/China standards

The US-China Standards Portal aims to facilitate US companies' entry into the Chinese market by providing translations of key national standards and information on standards systems. The portal's enhancements will support the development of timetables and actions to make the US more competitive in international standards.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateDec 1, 2005

Fat tissue surrounding thoracic arteries may be beneficial

A study found that fat surrounding internal thoracic arteries produces a factor that can relax the artery, alleviating contraction during CABG surgery. Retaining this fat tissue may help improve blood flow, providing an alternative to drugs that cause cellular damage.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

Men and women differ in brain use during same tasks

A study using fMRI technology found that men and women utilize distinct brain areas when performing similar tasks. This discovery has significant potential for improving psychiatric treatments, particularly for conditions such as major depression.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNeuroImage·DateDec 1, 2005

Jewelry-making program empowers participants, reduces HIV risk

A pilot study finds that a jewelry-making program significantly reduces HIV risk and increases self-esteem among Baltimore women involved in prostitution. The program also generates income through public sales, with participants earning over $7,000.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAIDS Care·DateDec 1, 2005

Endotoxins in house dust pose a significant risk for asthma

A study found significant relationships between household endotoxin levels and diagnosed asthma, recent symptoms, and wheezing. The strongest effects were observed in adults, with lower levels of endotoxins in bedding compared to kitchen floor dust.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 1, 2005

Crystal sponges excel at sopping up CO2

Researchers have invented a new class of materials called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that can store vast amounts of carbon dioxide. One MOF, dubbed MOF-177, sops up 140% of its weight in CO2 at room temperature and reasonable pressure.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 1, 2005

Chandra proves black hole influence is far reaching

Scientists have discovered energetic plumes extending 300,000 light years into a massive galaxy cluster. The plumes are caused by explosive venting from a supermassive black hole and demonstrate the far-reaching influence of a black hole on intergalactic distances.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 1, 2005
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Overfishing in inland waters reduces biodiversity and threatens health

Inland water overfishing leads to declines in catch per unit effort and size of individuals captured, as well as sequential species declines. This can have severe impacts on human health, particularly in developing countries where fish are a primary protein source.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

Specialized neurons allow the brain to focus on novel sounds

Neurons in the inferior colliculus of the brain can detect changes in pitch, loudness, and duration of sounds, as well as complex patterns. These 'novelty detector neurons' prevent unimportant sounds from reaching the cortex, enabling people to ignore background noises.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateDec 1, 2005

Childbirth not linked to urinary incontinence, study finds

A new study challenges conventional wisdom that vaginal delivery leads to urinary incontinence later in life. Instead, research suggests an underlying genetic predisposition plays a larger role. This finding has significant implications for basic research, treatment approaches and potential prophylactic interventions.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateDec 1, 2005

The heat is on: Why some cholesterol-lowering drugs cause hot flashes

Researchers discovered that nicotinic acid activates GPR109A on fat cells to lower lipid levels, but on immune cells in the skin, it triggers flushing responses. This study supports the hypothesis that immune cells are a primary source of arachidonic acid and prostaglandins causing hot flashes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2005

Battle of the bulge: Why losing weight is easier than keeping it off for good

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that low-dose leptin therapy can reverse skeletal muscle, autonomic, and neuroendocrine adaptations associated with maintaining reduced body weight. The researchers suggest this approach may assist in long-term weight management.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2005
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

'Jammed Networks' may clear the way for better materials

Researchers at NIST and UPenn found that jammed networks formed by carbon nanotubes or nanofibers can create a continuous, heat-shield layer on top of polymer matrices, suppressing vigorous bubbling and improving flammability resistance. Optimal gel concentrations for single- and multi-walled carbon nanotubes were 0.5% and 1%, respecti...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 1, 2005

Study demonstrates role of exercise in modifying melatonin levels

A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that regular physical activity can lower melatonin levels, which may contribute to a reduced risk of breast cancer. The research, conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto, involved 213 female volunteers and monitored their melatonin levels over time.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateDec 1, 2005
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.

JCI table of contents: December 1, 2005

In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, Columbia University researchers discovered that replacing leptin in lean individuals who lost weight restored fat mass and reversed metabolic changes. The findings suggest that therapeutics targeting the leptin signaling pathway may assist in maintaining reduced body weight...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2005

Study confirms that stents releasing medication help keep heart bypass vein grafts open

A new study published in Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions found that drug-eluting stents reduce the incidence of restenosis, heart attacks, and death by fourfold compared to conventional stents. Medicated stents were effective in keeping vein grafts open without affecting other parts of the bypass.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateDec 1, 2005

Disruption of gene interaction linked to schizophrenia

Studies using a laboratory model of PRODH deficiency demonstrate the role of COMT in compensating for overactive dopamine signaling, which contributes to schizophrenia symptoms. The findings show that disruptions in gene interaction, particularly between PRODH and COMT, play a crucial role in the development of schizophrenia.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 1, 2005

Study shows long-term benefits of psychotherapy for PTSD among youths after natural disaster

A recent study examined the impact of the 1988 Spitak earthquake on adolescents in Armenia and found that psychotherapy provided sustained benefits even 1.5 years post-disaster. Untreated adolescents had higher levels of PTSD and depressive symptoms, while treated adolescents saw significant improvements in their conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateDec 1, 2005

Give an ant a nice place to stay and it might stick around

A study of accidentally imported ants in the US reveals that finding suitable nesting sites is key to successful invasion. Researchers identified 232 species from 394 samples and found that opportunity alone is no guarantee of success.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2005
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

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

People in committed relationships are happier

A Cornell University study reveals that people in committed relationships experience higher levels of happiness and well-being compared to those in casual relationships. The stronger the relationship's commitment, the greater the happiness and sense of well-being among partners.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateDec 1, 2005

Hair follicle stem cells contribute to wound healing

Researchers found that hair follicle stem cells quickly mobilize to generate new cells that migrate into the wound area, contributing to wound healing. The study suggests a therapeutic target for developing drugs to enhance wound healing and treat patients with wounds.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 1, 2005
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.