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Science News for February 9, 2006


Naps key to surviving the hospital night shift

A new guide for junior doctors suggests that napping as short as 20-45 minutes can provide positive benefits for shift workers. This guidance aims to improve the survival and recovery of medical professionals working night shifts, ensuring better patient care.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 9, 2006

Macrophage signaling may affect hormone resistance in prostate tumors

A new study from UCSD found that macrophage signaling can activate processes in both cancer cells and immune cells, altering the activity of androgen antagonists and allowing tumor growth. The research identifies a novel binding site on steroid receptors that makes them responsive to inflammatory signals.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateFeb 9, 2006

The Valentine's Day candy dish

A study by Cornell University researcher Brian Wansink found that women eat significantly more Hershey Kisses when they are in clear containers on their desks, but fewer when they are six feet away. This suggests that the temptation factor plays a role in overeating, and that making food less visible can lead to reduced consumption.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateFeb 9, 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.

One of the nation's first 7-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging devices for human studies planned at UT Southwestern Medical Center

The new Bill and Rita Clements Advanced Medical Imaging Building will house a 7-Tesla magnet, enabling high-resolution imaging of small anatomical structures in the living human brain. This technology is expected to accelerate research into new diagnostic tests and treatments for neurological and metabolic illnesses.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateFeb 9, 2006

Take meds as directed, reduce overall healthcare costs

A new study found that taking medication for overactive bladder syndrome as prescribed can significantly reduce annual healthcare costs. The research, published in the Journal of Urology, shows that participants who took their medication properly saved around $3,700 compared to those who didn't.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateFeb 9, 2006

Many new immigrants to US change diet -- and not for the better

A new study by Ilana Redstone Akresh found that 39% of US immigrants reported significant changes in their diets, resulting in increased junk food and meat consumption. This can lead to negative health outcomes, as those who consume more junk food have higher BMI and lower levels of education, English proficiency, and social integration.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalInternational Migration Review·DateFeb 9, 2006

Social stress in mice is controlled by genetic pathway, researchers find

Studies show that deleting a specific gene called BDNF improves behavior in stressed mice, while also providing insight into the underlying molecular events involved. The researchers' findings have implications for understanding human ailments like social phobia and post-traumatic stress disorder.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience·DateFeb 9, 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.

Climate change may affect length of respiratory infection season

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in infants and young children may be shortened by three weeks per degree Celsius rise in annual mean daily temperature. Rising temperatures may also increase the spread of other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 9, 2006

Volcanic signatures persist in oceans

Researchers found that volcanic aerosols can cool the ocean surface by up to .037 degrees Celsius, reducing sea level rise by several centimeters. The cooling effect can persist for decades, offsetting human-induced warming and showing a significant impact of volcanoes on climate.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2006

New position stand issued on the female athlete triad

The Female Athlete Triad combines disordered eating, absent menstrual periods, and bone loss, particularly affecting elite athletes struggling with eating disorders. The International Olympic Committee's new position statement prioritizes athlete health over performance.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateFeb 9, 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.

Kidney cancer patients may be overtreated, U-M study finds

A majority of patients with small kidney tumors have their entire kidney removed, despite the availability of organ-sparing surgery. Studies show that partial nephrectomy is just as effective in controlling cancer while preserving long-term kidney function. However, its infrequent use may be due to surgeon expertise and hospital policies.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateFeb 9, 2006

Radiologic signs more than double sensitivity of MRIs

The study revealed that radiologists can use four radiologic signs to prospectively identify radial meniscal tears, increasing detection sensitivity from 37% to 89%. Repairing damaged cartilage is preferred over removal when possible.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateFeb 9, 2006

Study shows media coverage on flu influences parents to vaccinate their children

A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found that media coverage had a significant impact on pediatric flu vaccination rates nationwide. The study surveyed 256 parents and found that 75% of children with confirmed influenza dates received the vaccine after mid-November 2003, influenced by media attention.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 9, 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.

The nanoworld of corrosion

Researchers from Max Planck Institute and European Synchrotron Radiation Facility study gold-copper alloy corrosion process, revealing protective surface layer and gold nano-islands. The discovery provides insights into preventing corrosion in alloys used in corrosive environments.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2006

The smoking gun: Elastin fragments drive emphysema

Research finds elastases cause emphysema through generation of pro-inflammatory elastin fragments. Blocking elastin fragment activity prevents emphysema in both mouse models. Elastin fragments are chemotactic, attracting inflammatory cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 9, 2006

Researchers assemble second non-human primate genome

The rhesus macaque genome shares about 92-95% of its sequence with humans and 98% with chimpanzees, making it an ideal reference point for comparisons among the three closely related primates. The available genome sequence will facilitate studies in human disease research, vaccine development, and comparative genomic analysis.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateFeb 9, 2006

Social first graders more likely to become good readers

A study by Miles and Stipek found that social behavior and literacy achievement are connected, with poor reading skills in first grade predicting subsequent aggressive behavior. The research highlights the importance of teaching reading well in early grades and suggests that one-on-one tutoring can help stem negative behavior.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 9, 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.

A clue to core problem of neurodegenerative disease and cell death

Researchers found that polyglutamine proteins can destabilize the cell's system by interfering with other proteins having difficulty folding, leading to massive consequences. The study suggests a common mechanism may underlie various neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington's and ALS.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateFeb 9, 2006

Sound nutrition for children is an unmet human right

The world's largest nutrition crises are in West Africa, Niger, Ethiopia, and Malawi, with undernutrition linked to half of premature child deaths. To address malnutrition, intervention programs must target processes, promote breastfeeding, and address micronutrient deficiencies.

SourceTufts University·DateFeb 9, 2006

UF engineer develops tiny, easily mass-produced motion sensor

A University of Florida engineer has designed a tiny, easy-to-manufacture motion sensor with potential applications in personal electronics, medical devices, and athletic monitoring. The sensor measures 3 square millimeters and is extremely sensitive, drawing minimal power.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateFeb 9, 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.

Parents who fight may harm children's future emotional development

Researchers found that destructive marital conflict can lead to emotional insecurity and maladjustment in children, including depression, anxiety, and behavior problems. Constructive conflict, however, may increase children's security when parents express affection, engage in problem-solving, or exhibit positive feelings.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 9, 2006

Survey links altruism and romantic love

A survey by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago found a positive correlation between altruistic love and happiness in marriages. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,300 people, also revealed that married individuals tend to score higher on altruistic love questions than unmarried individuals.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateFeb 9, 2006

Turkish scientist's discovery of how proteins work

Ahmet Yildiz developed a new technique for fluorescence imaging that allowed him to identify the 'walking mechanism' used by protein motors in living cells. He applied this technique to measure how Myosin V, a biomolecular motor involved in intracellular transport, moves.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 9, 2006

Metabolic acidosis associated with an increased mortality rate

A study of 851 patients found that metabolic acidosis was associated with a higher mortality rate compared to non-acidosis patients. Lactic acidosis and SIG acidosis were identified as independent predictors of hospital mortality in critically ill patients.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateFeb 9, 2006

The future of nutritional genomics is collaboration

Collaborative research in nutritional genomics aims to develop new diagnostic tests, identify nutrient needs, and create more nutritious foods. The international consortium seeks to address health disparities by involving diverse cultures and protecting individual biological information.

SourceTufts University·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateFeb 9, 2006
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.

Mice lacking social memory molecule take bullying in stride

Researchers discovered that mice without brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) exhibit increased BDNF and gene expression in response to social defeat, leading to improved social behavior. Antidepressants reverse this effect, suggesting a potential treatment for mood disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalScience·DateFeb 9, 2006

JCI table of contents, February 9, 2006

Researchers discovered that elastin fragments in mice lungs trigger emphysema. Additionally, a study found that pericyte dysfunction allows tumors to spread by forming leaky blood vessels. Another study identified female mice lacking IBP protein, which makes their T cells resistant to death and contributes to lupus-like disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 9, 2006

A new way of looking at molecular motors

Researchers have developed a new classification system for myosins, increasing the number of subclasses from 18 to 24. This allows for better understanding of each myosin's function and its evolutionary links with other proteins.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Children's distress over parental conflict continues over time

Researchers studied 223 six-year-old children and their parents for a year to explore the effects of parental conflict on child distress. They found that witnessing different forms of destructive conflict, such as hostility or disengagement, can have long-term negative impacts on children's functioning.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 9, 2006

Rutgers researchers 'rewrite the book' in quantum statistical physics

Physicists at Rutgers University have rewritten the classical understanding of quantum statistical physics by finding a simpler way to derive a mathematical formula. The discovery, published in Physical Review Letters, could lead to rewrites of tomorrow's physics textbooks.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 9, 2006

Reading and behavior problems intertwined in boys

Research reveals that reading and behavior problems are intertwined in boys, primarily due to shared environmental factors, not genetics. The study found that targeting either reading or behavior issues during early childhood can lead to changes in both behaviors.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 9, 2006

It's in the genes: Study opens door to new treatment of the blues

Researchers at Florida State University have identified a gene called BDNF as playing a key role in social aversion, leading to the development of a potential new treatment for depression. Long-term use of antidepressants was successful in reversing social withdrawal, but a gene therapy approach showed promise with fewer side effects.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalScience·DateFeb 9, 2006
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.

New Georgia Tech probe revolutionizes nano imaging

Researchers at Georgia Tech have created a highly sensitive atomic force microscopy (AFM) technology called FIRAT, capable of high-speed imaging 100 times faster than current AFM. FIRAT can capture material property imaging and parallel molecular assays for drug screening and discovery.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateFeb 9, 2006

Veggies contain chemicals that boost DNA repair and protect against cancer

Researchers from Georgetown University Medical Center have discovered that certain vegetables, such as broccoli and soy beans, can increase the levels of BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins in damaged DNA. This could explain how eating vegetables cuts a person's risk of developing cancer.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateFeb 9, 2006
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.

Culture shapes the winner

A study analyzing media coverage of Olympics found that Japanese and American views on winning differ significantly. In Japan, winning is attributed to a combination of athlete's attributes, background, and social experience. This difference reflects cultural products such as television, which influence how people perceive the world.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 9, 2006