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Science News for January 30, 2006


Sediment could be a major factor in biggest subduction zone earthquakes

Researchers found that sediment-filled basins in subduction zones can strengthen the edge of the plate above, increasing the likelihood of large earthquakes. The Cascadia subduction zone is particularly prone to severe shaking due to its forearc basins, which can be up to 3 miles deep.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeology·DateJan 30, 2006
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

New study reveals that ads comparing two brands are frequently ineffective

A new study reveals that ads comparing two brands are effective when people use analytical processing, but not as effective when they use imagery processing. The authors found that comparative ads provide explicit comparisons among brands and encourage consumers to compare product characteristics across brands.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

How we view ourselves affects perception of products and brands

Researchers found consistent differences between Singaporeans and Americans regarding brand associations, with implications for consumer behavior across diverse cultures. The study highlights the need for more research on the impact of self-view on brand evaluation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

Improved diagnostic technology for Crohn's disease

A recent study published in American Journal of Roentgenology found that CT enteroclysis can detect complications like fistulas, abscesses, and tumors superior to conventional enteroclysis. This imaging method also detects minimal mucosal changes, a sign of early stage Crohn's disease, with no disadvantages.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJan 30, 2006

Not all eating habits are made alike. Some routines may even be beneficial, new study says

A new study has found that people's eating habits are influenced by their previous meals, with breakfast having the strongest effect. The study suggests that instead of setting daily nutritional goals, focusing on multi-day goals can help individuals approach dinner with a different set of habits and improve overall clarity.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds mass behavioral health plan is a good value

A recent study compares the Primary Care Clinician Plan carve-out organization with MassHealth-contracted managed care organizations, finding identical cost per person after adjusting for population differences. The report concludes that the behavioral health carve-out provides good value to Commonwealth and MassHealth members.

SourceBrandeis University·DateJan 30, 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.

Rice student earns top Texas nano honors

A Rice University student has developed a simple and eco-friendly method to create tiny hollow spheres called microcapsules. This breakthrough is expected to have significant applications in various industries, including medicine and pharmaceuticals.

SourceRice University·DateJan 30, 2006

Research shows brain's ability to overcome pain and thirst

Research shows that a unique brain region acts as an integrative centre, modifying pain sensations when people are thirsty. Elite athletes can push through normal thresholds of pain and thirst due to their ability to balance this 'priority switch',

SourceResearch Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2006

Even a mile of forest can make a difference in water quality

Researchers found that a one-mile stretch of National Forest significantly reduced chemical pollutants and improved bacterial populations in a stream. The study suggests that undeveloped forest sections can mitigate the effects of urbanization on water quality.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·DateJan 30, 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.

Ray of hope for vultures facing extinction

A new report finds that the drug meloxicam is safe for vultures and effective in treating livestock, providing a potential solution to combat diclofenac's devastating effects on vulture populations. The three endangered species of Asian vultures are critically close to extinction due to diclofenac use.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 30, 2006

U of M researchers unlock mystery of layer encircling the Earth's core

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered post-perovskite in the D'' layer surrounding Earth's core, explaining its unusual seismic properties. This finding sheds new light on the Earth's evolution and aging processes, offering insights into the planet's history.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2006

Identifying the source of negative emotions greatly reduces their influence on unrelated decisions

Researchers found that different types of negative emotions trigger distinct preferences in decision-making. Anxiety prefers safer options with control, while sadness favors more rewarding and comforting choices. Even when the cause of negative emotions is known, decisions related to that cause can still be affected by the emotions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 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.

Researchers take aim at the causes of heart valve disease

Grande-Allen's team aims to identify specific drug therapies for patients with valve disease by recreating conditions such as neurohormone buildup and serotonin levels. The bioreactor will simulate mechanical stimulation and fluid movements found inside a living heart.

SourceRice University·DateJan 30, 2006

NASA satellite catches a hurricane transforming itself

Researchers used NASA's TRMM satellite data to analyze temperature changes inside hurricanes, providing clues about storm transformations. The study sheds light on the stages of extra-tropical storms and helps forecasters better understand hurricane development.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 30, 2006

Dog owners hide the truth from shelters about their pets' behavioral problems

Researchers found that shelter dogs with behavioral issues were more likely to be reported as aggressive or fearful when owners believed their responses would be shared with staff. Honest owner assessments can help shelters identify troubled dogs and provide better care for both animals and potential adopters.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateJan 30, 2006

Argonne researchers contribute 1000th structure

Researchers at Argonne's Structural Biology Center have contributed their 1,000th protein structure to the Protein Data Bank, providing insight into cellular behavior, disease origins, and biomolecular interactions. The achievement highlights advances in technology and data analysis.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateJan 30, 2006
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.

Common molecular 'signature' identified in solid tumors

A common molecular signature of miRNA expression has been identified in solid tumors, providing insight into gene regulation and potential new approaches for diagnosis and treatment. This finding confirms the importance of microRNAs in growth and survival across species.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2006

Love of the unknown: Revealing live television's appeal

Indeterminacy, or the unplanned part of a show, makes live television more appealing. Researchers found that this characteristic alters people's experienced utility in various consumption domains like TV, performing arts, vacations, and gaming.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

Marsupial genome reveals insights into mammalian evolution

The genetic code of marsupials has been documented for the first time, revealing insights into mammalian immune system evolution. The analysis of the gray, short-tailed opossum's genome found that an important cluster of immune genes, known as MHC, was likely present in ancestral mammals and has since fragmented into multiple chromosomes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 30, 2006

Mad-cow culprit maintains stem cells

Researchers discovered that PrP protein plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy human stem cells, particularly in the brain. The findings suggest that PrP's positive function is essential for preventing prion-related neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2006

Giving déjà vu a second look

Researchers at the University of Leeds have developed a new framework to study chronic deja vu, a condition where people experience a strong sense of familiarity for new experiences. The Cognitive Feelings Framework (CFF) uses subjective reports and neuro-imaging to better understand everyday sensations like deja vu.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateJan 30, 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.

Pollution puts fat rats at heart attack risk

A study by University of Alberta researchers found that fine particulate matter from pollution causes cardiovascular problems in rats with obesity and insulin resistance. The findings suggest a significant public health risk for vulnerable populations, particularly those living near areas burning coal or diesel exhaust.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalToxicological Sciences·DateJan 30, 2006

Think your friends know you pretty well? Think again

A study by Andrew D. Gershoff and Gita Johar found that people overestimate their closest friends' knowledge of their tastes and preferences, leading to less accurate recommendations. The researchers suggest that this overestimation is driven by a desire to maintain self-image and protect relationships.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

Using statins to potentially treat rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers found that statins, such as fluvastatin, can induce apoptosis in RA synovial cells through the inhibition of protein geranygeranylation. This suggests that statins may be ideal therapeutic agents for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Further clinical trials are proposed to confirm these findings.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 30, 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.

New study shows that variety is overrated, especially in our choices for others

A study found that people tend to choose more varied snacks for their partners than for themselves, even when justifying choices. The authors attribute this tendency to a desire for conformity and a focus on consumptions rather than activities, but a 'de-focusing' task reduced variety in snack selection.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 30, 2006

Yale findings hold promise for stopping progression of bipolar disorder

Researchers at Yale discovered that brain changes associated with bipolar disorder are diminished in patients taking mood-stabilizing medications, holding promise for halting the progression of the disorder. The study's findings highlight the importance of research on bipolar disorder in youths, who are at high risk for suicide.

SourceYale University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 30, 2006

Stem cells from muscles can repair cartilage

Researchers found that genetically engineered muscle-derived stem cells (MDSC-B4) improved cartilage repair in rats, with well-integrated repaired tissue at 8, 12, and 24 weeks after surgery. The study also showed that MDSC-B4 could differentiate into chondrogenic cells depending on the type of medium they grew in.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 30, 2006
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Converging satellites unlock Hurricane Lili's sudden demise

Researchers analyzed data from multiple satellites, including NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites, to understand the rapid weakening of Hurricane Lili in 2002. The study found that dry air moving into the storm's low levels created an 'open eyewall' that led to a significant decrease in strength.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 30, 2006

Birth defects: 8 million annually worldwide

The March of Dimes Global Report reveals that at least 3.3 million children under 5 years old die annually due to serious birth defects, with an estimated 3.2 million surviving with lifelong disabilities. The report highlights the global toll of birth defects on mortality and disability rates in middle- and low-income countries.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·DateJan 30, 2006

Poor control of diabetes in a large sample of patients

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that over 63,000 Ontario patients with diabetes had inadequate blood sugar control, with testing rates decreasing among younger adults. The research highlights concerns about unequal access to care and its impact on health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 30, 2006
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Maternal death rates in Canada are too high

Maternal mortality rates in Canada are significantly higher than those in many developed countries, according to a Canadian Medical Association Journal study. The findings highlight the need for improved maternal healthcare and increased awareness of pregnancy-related complications.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 30, 2006

You don't say: Patient-doctor nonverbal communication says a lot

A study by Dr. Richard Frankel found that nonverbal cues in medical interactions can influence patient satisfaction and compliance with doctor's instructions. Effective nonverbal behavior can convey empathy and improve communication, whereas inappropriate gestures can lead to feelings of humiliation or anxiety.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 30, 2006

Amputation among patients with diabetes mellitus: Is height a factor?

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found a strong correlation between height and the risk of amputation among patients with diabetes mellitus. The research showed that every 10-cm increase in height was associated with a 16% higher risk of amputation, even among those with well-controlled diabetes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 30, 2006

Hot-spring bacteria flip a metabolic switch

Researchers discovered that single-celled cyanobacterium Synechococcus fixes nitrogen gas at night, converting it into biologically useful compounds. This finding sheds light on how hot-spring microbial communities obtain essential nutrients, and highlights the complex metabolic strategies of these microorganisms.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2006

Flap over fishes: Who's the smallest of them all?

The newly discovered Photocorynus spiniceps is not only the smallest fish and vertebrate, but also one of the most unique reproductive strategies in nature. The tiny male anglerfish, measuring just 6.2 mm, attaches to a much larger female and provides her body with everything she needs to reproduce, essentially turning her into a herma...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalIchthyological Research·DateJan 30, 2006
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 Alzheimer patient who sang 'Oh, what a beautiful morning!'

A study suggests that Alzheimer's patients can recognize and appreciate music, with one patient singing old songs from her youth. The researchers believe a more musical environment could improve the lives of demented individuals, sparking interest from caregivers to share their experiences.

SourceElsevier·JournalMedical Hypotheses·DateJan 30, 2006

Sediment layer may forecast greatest earthquakes

Researchers at Yale University discovered a key to identifying areas within subduction zones prone to severe damage during earthquakes. Sediment layers deposited on top of the overriding plate cause it to 'stick,' increasing the likelihood of earthquake events in these regions.

SourceYale University·JournalGeology·DateJan 30, 2006

Scientists spot solitary stem cells in living bone marrow

Researchers have identified individual, isolated hematopoietic stem cells at the edge of bone marrow using a novel gene expression technique. This breakthrough allows for the study of these rare cells in their natural environment, shedding light on how they maintain their pluripotency and function.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2006

UCSD study finds anthrax toxins also harmful to fruit flies

A UCSD study reveals that anthrax toxins, known as lethal factor and edema factor, can cause cellular damage and death in fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. The findings suggest that fruit flies can be used to test the effects of anthrax toxins on signaling pathways shared by flies and humans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 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.