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Science News for December 4, 2006


Controlling confusion -- Researchers make insight into memory, forgetting

A study by UW-Madison researchers found that the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) is essential for blocking interference in memory, which can lead to confusion. The technique of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) allowed them to temporarily disrupt the IFG and demonstrate its crucial role in controlling memory operations.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006

High-resolution imaging with contrast agent shows promise in osteoarthritis research

Researchers have developed a noninvasive imaging technique that uses a contrast agent and microcomputed tomography to image cartilage in osteoarthritis research. The technique, dubbed EPIC-microCT, reveals information about cartilage thickness and composition, allowing for the monitoring of osteoarthritis progression and treatment.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ray Charles really did have that swing

Musical acousticians analyze Ray Charles' classic hits to identify precise timing and rhythm, shedding light on the physics of swing music. The research reveals the importance of micro-timing pulses and meter in creating the distinctive sound of swing.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateDec 4, 2006

Restrictive provincial drug policies may have benefits

A more restrictive drug coverage policy in British Columbia resulted in lower upper gastrointestinal bleeding rates compared to Ontario. The study suggests that limiting access to NSAIDs like coxibs can protect the population from adverse effects.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 4, 2006

Early HIV treatment fails to restore memory T cells

A study published in PLoS Medicine found that HIV treatment does not restore memory T cells in most people, despite years of antiviral therapy. The researchers discovered that intestinal immune cells remained low and elevated immune activation persisted, suggesting potential clinical problems over time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

Enhanced depression care may be cost-effective for employers

A cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that enhanced depression screening and care can reduce costs for employers. The program, which includes telephone counseling and depression management strategies, is estimated to save $2,895 per 1,000 workers over five years due to reduced absenteeism and employee turnover costs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2006

Peering into the shadow world of RNA

Research suggests that non-coding RNA forms interact with each other and genes to manage the genome, influencing processes like embryonic development and cancer formation. The discovery of RNA editing mechanisms, such as ADAR and microRNAs, reveals a subtle level of genome control.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalNature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology·DateDec 4, 2006

Can hockey playoffs harm your hearing?

Researchers found that fans without ear protection in Edmonton Oilers games received a daily allowable noise dose of over 8,100%, posing a significant risk to their hearing. The study highlights the importance of wearing protective gear during loud events like hockey playoffs.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

IDIBAPS validates the first prognostic DNA chip

The IDIBAPS project has validated the first prognostic DNA chip, called the IBDchip, which predicts inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) prognosis and treatment response. The chip is a simple device requiring only a small blood sample and can detect 61 genetic mutations.

SourceIDIBAPS - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer·DateDec 4, 2006

CGIAR climate change research

The CGIAR research program aims to develop climate-resilient crops like maize, sorghum, and millet that can withstand drought and heat. Researchers are using molecular biology tools to identify genetic hot spots in these crops, enabling them to capture solar energy more efficiently and produce greater yields.

SourceBurness·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

New highways carry pathogens and social change in Ecuador

A new study by the University of Michigan found that the construction of new highways in rural Ecuador is linked to higher rates of diarrheal diseases and a breakdown of traditional social structures. The roads, which connect previously isolated villages, bring new people and bacteria, leading to increased infection rates.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006

Gendered division of labor gave modern humans advantage over Neanderthals

A recent study suggests that the emergence of diversified social roles for men, women, and children in Homo sapiens provided a competitive advantage over Neanderthals. This division of economic labor enabled modern humans to thrive in ecologically diverse tropical and sub-tropical regions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateDec 4, 2006

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for December 5, 2006

A study of 119 physician groups found that integrated medical groups delivered higher quality care on four of six measures than individual practice associations. Routine, voluntary rapid HIV testing for all adults, except those with low prevalence, is cost-effective and supported by the CDC recommendation.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 4, 2006

Reducing air pollution could increase rice harvests in India

Historical data analysis reveals that combined effects of atmospheric brown clouds and greenhouse gases negatively impacted Indian rice harvests. The study estimates that harvests would have been 20-25% higher in the 1990s if pollution-related climate impacts hadn't occurred.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006

Invention could solve 'bottleneck' in developing pollution-free cars

Researchers at the University of Bath have invented a new material that stores and releases hydrogen at room temperature, promising to solve the main problem holding back hydrogen-powered cars. The material could be used in combination with metal hydride sources to store and release energy instantaneously.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

Fishy cooperation

Researchers discovered that groupers and giant moray eels work together to hunt prey, sharing roles and coordinating behavior. This mutually beneficial arrangement highlights the complexity of fish social interaction and challenges our understanding of animal intelligence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 4, 2006

Exposures to the insecticide chlorpyrifos in pregnancy adversely affect child development

A study published in Pediatrics found that prenatal exposure to chlorpyrifos, a common agricultural insecticide, was associated with poorer mental and motor development in children by age three. The study also revealed an increased risk of behavior problems among children exposed to higher levels of the insecticide.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 4, 2006

Scientists develop a new way to target Alzheimer's disease

Researchers developed a synthetic protein fragment that blocks the interaction between Apo E and amyloid beta, reducing its aggregation by around 50% in mouse brains. The treatment showed no apparent inflammation or memory decline in animal tests.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006

Global malaria map key weapon in fight against malaria, scientists say

A new global malaria map is being developed to address the lack of accurate information on malaria endemicity, which will enable targeted treatment and resource allocation. The Malaria Atlas Project uses statistical approaches to fill in gaps in data and create a comprehensive map of malaria risk worldwide.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 4, 2006

City kids with asthma lose out on preventive treatment

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that only 20% of inner-city children with chronic asthma receive the recommended daily controller medication to control flare-ups. This leads to over-reliance on fast-acting rescue drugs, increasing complications and risk of death.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

Efforts for whites to appear colorblind may backfire

Researchers found that whites who avoid using race in social interactions tend to exhibit less friendly nonverbal behaviors, such as reduced eye contact. This study suggests that attempting to appear colorblind may have unintended results and actually lead to perceived distance and unfriendliness.

SourceTufts University·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 4, 2006

Study shows value of HIV screening in virtually all health settings

A recent study by researchers at Yale University found that routine HIV screening in virtually all health settings is cost-effective and saves lives. The study provides strong support for the US CDC guidelines recommending HIV screening of all persons aged 13-64 in all healthcare settings.

SourceYale University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

New hope for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia

A phase II study found that lenalidomide significantly improves clinical outcomes in patients with relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), achieving a major response in 47% of patients. The medication's predictable safety profile and manageable side effects make it an attractive alternative for treatment.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 4, 2006

Teens who take multivitamins have healthier lifestyles

A study found that teenagers who take daily multivitamin supplements have healthier diets and lifestyles compared to non-users. Vitamin users were more likely to engage in physical activity, eat a balanced diet, and watch less TV.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateDec 4, 2006

Ongoing collapse of coral reef shark populations

Researchers found that reef shark abundance on reefs open to fishing is about ten times lower than on unfished reefs. High reef shark abundance was only apparent on the most strictly enforced no-take zones, suggesting moderate poaching can derail conservation efforts.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 4, 2006
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 power of one: A simpler, cheaper method for cell fusion

A simpler, cheaper method for cell fusion has been developed by Chang Lu at Purdue University, enabling researchers to fuse cells with greater control and precision. The new technology uses constant DC voltage and could lead to breakthroughs in stem cell research, disease antibody production, and cloning.

SourcePurdue University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 4, 2006

Who's afraid of the big bad boss? Plenty of us, new FSU study shows

A Florida State University study found that 31% of workers experienced supervisor abuse, leading to increased exhaustion, job tension, and mistrust. Employees who stay visible at work and maintain an optimistic outlook are better equipped to minimize the harm caused by abusive supervisors.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalThe Leadership Quarterly·DateDec 4, 2006

Genetic archaeology offers clues to backstory of male pregnancy

Researchers discovered a new gene in the gulf pipefish that codes for an astacin protein, previously associated with kidney and liver function. This protein may have evolved to support male pregnancy in this species, a mystery in evolutionary biology.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

Research grant funds studies of climate change and reef ecosystems

A researcher at Florida Institute of Technology has received a $62,000 World Wildlife Fund grant to investigate the relationships between water quality and coral resilience in South Florida's reef ecosystems. The goal is to develop a tool that can inform decision-making and enhance adaptive management options.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·DateDec 4, 2006

Vanishing beetle horns have surprise function

Researchers discovered that Onthophagus horned beetles use their young horns to bust out of thick larval shells, a function previously unknown. The finding suggests that the evolution of adult horn shape may have occurred secondarily, with the initial function being for larval molting.

SourceIndiana University·JournalEvolution·DateDec 4, 2006

Gene-bender proteins may sway to DNA

Gene-bending proteins recognize and bind tightly to bent DNA conformation, suggesting DNA plays a role in guiding correct bending protein to site on DNA. This finding challenges the conventional dogma that it is the protein that bends the DNA.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006

How to herd atoms

Physicists at the Max Planck Institute have discovered a way to arrange randomly deposited atoms in regular patterns, mimicking the behavior of sheep in a pen. By adjusting substrate temperature and parameters, they created circular fencing that guides adatoms into ordered structures.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 4, 2006

New clues to how sex evolves

Researchers identify key genes and proteins involved in bringing chromosomes together during meiosis, shedding light on the evolution of sex. The study provides new insights into the role of zinc-finger proteins in stabilizing chromosome interactions during pairing.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

Study uncovers mutation responsible for Noonan Syndrome

Noonan syndrome is a common childhood genetic disorder caused by mutations in the SOS1 gene. Researchers identified this mutation in approximately 20% of cases, promoting excessive activation of RAS and its downstream target, MAP kinase.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 4, 2006

Ocean sampling yields environmental sources of coral symbionts

A group of researchers has successfully identified algae of the genus known to represent coral symbionts and demonstrated that isolated algae can establish symbioses with new corals. This finding potentially bolsters future efforts to protect and rehabilitate coral reefs.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 4, 2006

Brain's fear center likely shrinks in autism's most severely socially impaired

In the most severely socially impaired males with autism spectrum disorders, researchers found a smaller-than-normal amygdala, an almond-shaped danger-detector deep in the brain. The study suggests that social fear triggers hyperactivity in the amygdala, which eventually leads to toxic adaptation and cell death.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2006

Regulatory pathway in brain development possible basis for malformations

A team of researchers at UCSD School of Medicine has identified a genetic regulatory pathway that controls the choice between proliferation and differentiation in neural cells. Defects in this pathway result in brain malformations, such as Dandy-Walker malformation, which affects motor development and causes progressive skull enlargement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

New research predicts US entry of H5N1 avian influenza

H5N1 avian influenza is most likely to be introduced to the US through infected poultry trade, not migratory birds. The virus spread rapidly through Asia, Europe, and Africa, causing millions of chicken deaths and 153 human fatalities.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006

Tearing down the fungal cell wall

Scientists identify AbNPS2 gene crucial to fungal spore cell wall integrity, impacting viability and host plant damage. Disruption of the gene leads to structural changes, decreased germination rates, and reduced survival under adverse conditions.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMolecular Plant Pathology·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

Molecular 'marker' on stem cells aids research, perhaps therapies

A sugar molecule called SSEA-4 has been found on the surface of adult stem cells in bone marrow, which give rise to fat, cartilage, and bone. This discovery may help isolate and purify these cells for use in therapies aimed at bone healing, tendon repair, and cartilage regeneration.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalBlood·DateDec 4, 2006

HIV-1 kills immune cells in the gut that may never bounce back

Researchers found that HIV-1 infection leads to the loss of immune cells in the gut, which may never return to normal levels. A subset of patients showed only half the normal number of CD4+ effector memory T cells in their GI tracts despite effective antiretroviral therapy.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 4, 2006

Technology can't replace doctors' judgment in reading mammograms

A recent study by Group Health Research Institute shows that computer-assisted detection (CAD) technology improves mammographic specificity by 3%, allowing 30 women to avoid further evaluation. However, CAD does not affect overall sensitivity and may lead to deferral of radiologists' own judgment.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

Cities change the songs of birds

Research on great tit birds in urban environments found that city songs are shorter, sung faster, and have a higher frequency to overcome noise, while forest songs remain intact. This study supports the acoustic-adaptation hypothesis, suggesting that environmental pressures shape animal communication sounds.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 4, 2006

Hospital emergency departments vary greatly across country

A new database reveals a wide range of patient visits per year, with higher volume facilities concentrated in metropolitan areas. The study suggests different approaches may be needed to ensure access to emergency care for all Americans, particularly in rural settings.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateDec 4, 2006

Benefits to employers outweigh enhanced depression-care costs

A simulation of dozens of studies suggests providing minimal enhanced care for employees' depression would result in cumulative savings to employers. This approach reduces absenteeism and employee turnover costs, yielding a net savings of $4,633 per 1,000 workers.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2006
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.

New anti-psychotic drugs no better than older, cheaper ones

A study found that schizophrenia patients respond equally well to older psychiatric drugs as newer, costlier alternatives. The NHS-funded trial revealed little benefit from switching to second-generation anti-psychotics despite their higher market share.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2006

Case Western Reserve University physicists

Researchers Katherine Jones-Smith and Harsh Mathur critique the work of physicist Richard Taylor, who claimed fractal analysis could authenticate Pollock's paintings. They found that fractal analysis leads to mathematical contradictions and inconsistencies in Pollock's works.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature·DateDec 4, 2006

UCF researcher's 3-D Digital Storage System could hold a library on 1 disc

A new technology allows users to record and store massive amounts of data onto a single disc, such as the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's entire collection or 500 movies, maintaining excellent quality without damage. The UCF team's Two-Photon 3-D Optical Data Storage system uses lasers to compact information onto a DVD.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 4, 2006

Can the Stanley Cup playoffs harm your hearing?

Research reveals that even short exposure to loud noise during Stanley Cup games can be harmful, with fans receiving up to 81% of their daily noise dose without ear protection. Earplugs can mitigate this risk and help prevent hearing loss and tinnitus.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 4, 2006

Weighty viruses

Researchers in Taiwan create a new method to accurately analyze the masses of individual, intact viruses using a miniaturized ion trap. They achieve a margin of error of ±1% by employing a gentle ionization technique and a specially designed cylindrical ion trap.

SourceWiley·DateDec 4, 2006
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Timely treatment of heart attacks: Results from the AMI-QUEBEC Study

The AMI-QUEBEC Study found that almost half of patients received fibrinolytic therapy within 30 minutes, a significant improvement from previous times. Door-to-balloon times remained a concern, exceeding recommended times in most cases.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 4, 2006

Mapping the wake of a pending quake

Researchers have modeled past tsunamis to determine the likelihood of future waves and potential impacts on cities along the Sumatran coast. The study reveals that coastal communities face substantial exposure to tsunami surges, particularly in cities like Bengkalu and Padang.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2006

Transplanted brain cells hold promise for Parkinson's disease

Researchers have discovered that transplanted neural stem cells can survive, differentiate into neurons, and form synapses with host tissue, potentially offering a new treatment for Parkinson's disease. The study shows promise in reducing the destruction of dopaminergic cells and replacing those lost to the disease.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateDec 4, 2006
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.