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Science News for June 5, 2006


Is being overweight all in the brain?

Researchers found a link between increased serotonin receptors and body weight in overweight individuals. The discovery suggests that serotonin receptor manipulation could be a potential target for treating obesity.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 5, 2006

Illinois researchers produce two most important scientific papers

Nick Holonyak Jr.'s seminal research on transistors and lasers has been recognized as one of the most significant papers in Applied Physics Letters. His work on room-temperature operation of a transistor laser facilitated faster signal processing, seamless communications, and higher performance electrical and optical integrated circuits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 5, 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.

Plant diseases threaten chocolate production worldwide

The three most important and damaging cacao diseases, black pod, frosty pod, and witches' broom, are threatening global chocolate production. According to plant pathology professor Randy Ploetz, black pod could reduce yields by an additional one million metric tons per year in West Africa.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·DateJun 5, 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.

Penn researchers question change in 'gold standard' for assessing heart failure treatment

A study of nearly 600 female heart failure patients revealed that women had better outcomes with lower VO2 levels and less need for a heart transplant. The results challenge the current 'gold standard' for assessing treatment options, highlighting the importance of considering gender differences in heart failure management.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 5, 2006

Zebra finch males prefer females with exaggerated maternal traits

Researchers found that zebra finch males prefer females with beaks more extremely colored than their mothers', demonstrating a 'peak shift' effect. This suggests that sexual imprinting drives the evolution of skewed mating preferences and exaggerated traits in birds.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 5, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Do 'planemos' have progeny?

Researchers have discovered six 'planemos,' planetary mass objects with masses similar to extra-solar planets, surrounded by dusty discs that may evolve into miniature planetary systems. These findings suggest similar infancies for our Sun and smaller objects, blurring the definition of a planet.

SourceESO·DateJun 5, 2006

Health risks continue well after the surgery is over

Research highlights continued health risks following surgery, particularly for patients with serious underlying diseases. By understanding the mechanisms of inflammation and adopting strategies such as minimizing surgical incisions and pre-surgery medication, healthcare teams can reduce these risks.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalAnesthesiology Clinics of North America·DateJun 5, 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.

When it counts: Shortening imaging time for individuals with suspected heart problems

Researchers have developed a technology that can reduce imaging time for cardiac stress/rest tests by 50% without compromising image quality. This innovation allows for increased patient comfort and improved throughput in nuclear medicine departments, enabling more patients to be scanned without additional floor space or equipment.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 5, 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.

Study shows that genetic quality of sperm deteriorates as men age

A study led by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory found a steady increase in sperm DNA fragmentation with increasing age of participants. Sperm motility showed a high correlation with DNA fragmentation, associated with increased risk of infertility.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2006

Natural born killers

Natural killer cells rely on receptor tyrosine kinases, such as Tyro3, to acquire their reconnaissance tool kit, allowing them to distinguish friend from foe. The study reveals that environmental signals, transmitted through Gas6 and protein S, trigger the maturation of natural killer cells.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateJun 5, 2006

Dartmouth heart researchers discover new defect in artery growth

Researchers found that an intracellular protein called synectin is a key regulator of arterial growth, impairing development when disrupted. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches for coronary artery disease and vascular biology research.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 5, 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.

Surprising symbiosis: Glassy-winged sharpshooter eats with friends

Researchers discovered that the glassy-winged sharpshooter insect has a surprising symbiosis with two bacteria, Baumannia cicadellinicola and Sulcia muelleri. The bacteria receive essential amino acids, while the insect receives vitamins and cofactors from them.

SourceThe Institute for Genomic Research·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 5, 2006

A fundamentally new approach to improving cancer chemotherapy

A new approach to improving cancer chemotherapy involves giving anticancer drugs basic properties, allowing them to accumulate in both normal and malignant cells. This approach may lead to more effective treatment with fewer side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJun 5, 2006

Scientists resolve 60-year-old plutonium questions

Researchers have determined that gallium evens out the uneven bonds between plutonium atoms, leading to a stable high-symmetry cubic structure. The findings shed light on the nature of plutonium and improve confidence in its safety and reliability.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 5, 2006

Rising health care premiums lead to lower wages and more part-time employment

A recent study by Baicker and Chandra found that a 20% increase in health insurance premiums would reduce the probability of employment by 2.4 percentage points, equivalent to approximately 3.5 million workers. As healthcare costs rise, workers may accept lower wages for costlier health insurance.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateJun 5, 2006

Small naps a big help for young docs on long shifts

Researchers found that a short nap can significantly boost physician concentration and alleviate chronic sleep deprivation. Interns who took naps reported lower levels of fatigue and improved ability to care for their patients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 5, 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.

Astronomers find hundreds of young, distant galaxy clusters

A team of astronomers has found nearly 300 new galaxy clusters and groups, including 100 at extreme distances of eight to 10 billion light years. This discovery will allow scientists to study very young galaxies two-thirds of the way back to the Big Bang.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateJun 5, 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.

Physical activity linked to improved glucose control in children with type 1 diabetes

A large study found that regular physical activity is associated with better glucose control and lower body mass index in children with type 1 diabetes. The research analyzed data from over 19,000 patients and found that increased physical activity was linked to lower HbA1c levels and improved glycemic control.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 5, 2006

New combination treatment induces regression of prostate cancer

Researchers have developed a new treatment protocol combining radionuclide therapy and chemotherapy that induces regression of prostate cancer in patients with metastatic disease. The combination regimen has been shown to alleviate bone pain and produce clinical benefit, including prolonged survival and reduced PSA levels.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 5, 2006

Newborn screening can cause unnecessary parental stress

A study found that false-positive newborn screening results can lead to increased worry, parenting stress, and strained parent-child relationships. Parents who received incorrect information about the diagnosis had higher stress levels, whereas those with accurate information reported reduced anxiety.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 5, 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.

Beaver dams create healthy downstream ecosystems

Researchers found that beaver dams enhance hydrologic processes during peak flow and low flow periods, creating environments suitable for wetland formation and persistence. The study suggests that beavers play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem diversity by altering river systems worldwide.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJun 5, 2006

Number of children and teens treated with antipsychotics increases sharply

The number of outpatient health care visits for antipsychotic medications among children and adolescents in the US increased six-fold between 1993 and 2002. Diagnoses included disruptive behavior disorder, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders. Further research is needed to confirm safety and efficacy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJun 5, 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.

Unwanted sex appears common in some teen relationships

A study found that 40.9% of teenage girls reported unwanted sex at least once, with 37.6% fearing their partner's anger if denied sex. The data highlights the need for sexual health counseling to reduce risk and promote healthy relationships.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 5, 2006

Patient's generosity after death leads to possible clues for lung disease

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh's Simmons Center have developed a warm autopsy program for studying pulmonary fibrosis, allowing them to compare tissue samples from biopsies and organs retrieved soon after death. This approach may help understand IPF mechanisms and lead to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 5, 2006

'Cosmic telescopes' may have found infant galaxies

Astronomers using gravitational lensing to study distant galaxies behind massive clusters, which act as giant cosmic telescopes. The ACS team has found three candidate galaxies that could provide the clearest view yet of the youngest galaxies ever seen.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 5, 2006

Do angry men get noticed?

A recent study found that men and women both prioritize detecting angry male faces, suggesting a bias towards threat detection. Angry male faces were also found more rapidly by both sexes than angry female faces or socially relevant expressions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 5, 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.

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.

Exercise in childhood and adolescence may stave off osteoporosis

Researchers found that leisure activity levels significantly impact bone mass increase in children and adolescents, with more intense physical activity leading to greater increases in bone density. Exercise during childhood is crucial for optimal bone accrual and reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateJun 5, 2006

The appearance of your hands can reveal your age, study finds

A study found that prominent hand veins are the physical characteristic most commonly giving away age, while fullness and lack of wrinkles make hands appear younger. Skincare regimens and non-surgical procedures like laser treatments and chemical peels can reduce age spots and improve hand appearance.

SourceAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJun 5, 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.

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.

Chaco Canyon: A place of kings and palaces?

Researchers have long wondered how Chaco rulers controlled outlying communities, but a new book suggests that the Southwestern skies played a crucial role in establishing a 'line-of-site' system. The book explores Chaco's economy, politics, and history, shedding light on the culture's architecture and settlement patterns.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateJun 5, 2006

Blacks hit hardest by HIV infection among nation's young adults

A new study found that HIV infection rates among young non-Hispanic blacks are significantly higher than other racial groups, with a rate of 4.9 per 1,000 compared to 0.22 for all other races. The study suggests that segregation and differences in sexual networks contribute to the disparity.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 5, 2006

Hispanic 3-year-olds more likely to be obese than black or white children

A new study by Mathematica Policy Research found that Hispanic 3-year-olds are more likely to be obese than their black and white counterparts. The research surveyed over 2,500 children born in US hospitals between 1998 and 2000, and adjusted for socioeconomic factors such as education level and access to food.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 5, 2006

Ethnic disparities in teen exercise: Do schools play a role?

Research finds that adolescent girls are less physically active than boys, with black and Hispanic girls reporting lower activity levels. School factors, such as racial segregation and median income, also play a role in shaping physical activity patterns among teens.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 5, 2006

Clearing the air – links between smoking and osteoporosis strengthened

Studies in Sweden, China, and the US find strong links between smoking and osteoporosis, with smoking hastening bone erosion and increasing fracture risk. Second-hand smoke also significantly increases risk for osteoporosis and fractures in both men and women.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateJun 5, 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.

Self-injury is prevalent among college students, survey shows

A recent study conducted at Cornell University found that self-injury is a widespread phenomenon among adolescents and young adults, with most perpetrators being female and questioning their sexual orientation. The study highlights the need for solid research to detect, treat, and prevent self-injurious behavior in young adults.

SourceCornell University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 5, 2006

Telephone counseling improves lung transplant quality of life

A study by Duke University Medical Center found that telephone counseling can improve the quality of life for patients waiting for a lung transplant, reducing emotional distress and anxiety. The researchers believe this approach could be useful for patients with chronic diseases who cannot access face-to-face counseling due to distance...

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateJun 5, 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.

Beta-blockers for high blood pressure – ongoing debate

A re-examination of beta-blocker efficacy for hypertension treatment found that the risk of stroke is more significant for patients over 60 years old. In contrast, younger patients under 60 show no increased stroke risk. The meta-analysis suggests a potential shift in beta-blocker usage guidelines.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 5, 2006

Under-diagnosed rage disorder more prevalent than previously thought

A new study reveals that intermittent explosive disorder (IED), a condition characterized by uncontrollable rage, is more prevalent than previously thought. The study found that IED attacks are often out of proportion to social stressors and can be linked to cases of road rage and spousal abuse.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJun 5, 2006

A new way to build bone

Researchers found that slightly increasing NFATc1 activity leads to massive bone accumulation in mice, suggesting potential new targets for treating osteoporosis. The study's findings may enable the development of drugs that promote bone formation without causing undesirable side effects.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 5, 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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 6, 2006

A meta-analysis of 33,826 asthma patients found that long-acting beta-agonists increase hospitalization rates by 2.5 times and life-threatening asthma attacks by two times compared to placebo. Naps and caffeine can combat fatigue in medical interns and night drivers.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 5, 2006

Homeless young people warn researchers about the dangers of cash incentives

The study found that most homeless young people prefer small, non-monetary incentives to take part in research. Researchers should involve them in design and provide feedback to encourage greater participation. The findings highlight the need for ethical guidelines in research with homeless young people.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·DateJun 5, 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.