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Science News for May 14, 2007


Asexual worm quickly adapts to soil contamination

Researchers found that an asexual nematode adapted rapidly to soil contamination, living longer and laying more eggs in polluted conditions. The study highlights the importance of considering various research disciplines for understanding stress responses and developing protection strategies.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateMay 14, 2007
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

The 'driving' force behind electric vehicles

A comparative study of US and French policies on electric vehicles reveals the impact of cultural differences on technological innovation. The study shows that despite similar goals, different approaches led to varying outcomes, with the US adopting hybrid cars as an alternative solution.

SourceSpringer·JournalPolicy Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007

Rx for heart failure: patient-centered care from a pharmacist

A study of 314 low-income Indiana residents with heart failure found that pharmacist-led patient-centered care resulted in patients taking their medications 16% more consistently. This approach also reduced emergency room visits and hospitalizations by 19%, saving the healthcare system $14 in costs for every dollar spent.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007

Grain fiber and magnesium intake associated with lower risk for diabetes

A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that higher consumption of cereal fiber and magnesium may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Participants who consumed more cereal fiber had a 27% lower risk of developing diabetes compared to those who ate less, while those who consumed more magnesium had a 23% lower risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

NASA mission explores world's deepest sinkhole

The Deep Phreatic Thermal Explorer (DEPTHX) mission aims to study the physical dimensions, geothermal vents, and potential life in El Zacatón's depths. Using a 2.5-meter-diameter submarine, the team will collect water samples and core samples from the cenote walls.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateMay 14, 2007

Older patients with major depression live longer with appropriate treatment, Penn study shows

A Penn study found that older adults with major depression who receive coordinated care with primary physicians and depression care managers have a 45% lower risk of dying within five years compared to those receiving standard care. The study suggests that engaging primary care practices in mental health services is crucial for improvi...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007

Spreading viruses as we breathe

A study by Queensland University of Technology found that droplets carrying viruses can travel large distances in the air, posing a risk to people breathing nearby. The research dispels the myth that viruses only travel a short distance from a person, suggesting that one infected individual can spread the virus simply by exhaling.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateMay 14, 2007

UC San Diego electrical engineering grad student racks up awards

Dayeh's work resolves debate on III-V compound semiconducting nanowire growth mechanism, opens door to wider tuning range of temperature and precursor flow rates. His research also reveals unique electronic properties in InAs nanowires grown at different temperatures and orientations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

DOE JGI sets 'gold standard' for metagenomic data analysis

The DOE JGI has established a gold standard for metagenomic data analysis, enabling accurate classification of sequence fragments into species populations. The method involves simulating metagenomes with known sample genomes, allowing researchers to evaluate the predictive accuracy of existing tools and identify potential pitfalls.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 14, 2007

AGA Institute takes leadership role in exploring obesity and its complications

The AGA Institute's Obesity Task Force Report highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing obesity, considering its impact on healthcare budgets and societal practices. The report emphasizes the role of gastroenterology in treating obesity, with novel therapies and policies being developed.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 14, 2007

Tropical farmer still has a lot to learn

Researchers found that coordination of prices, clearer codes of conduct, and better understanding of markets can improve quality and competition. National institutes for quality control can also hinder improvement.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateMay 14, 2007

State spending keeps childless seniors out of nursing homes

Doubling state HCBS expenditures per person over age 65 reduces the risk of nursing home admission among childless seniors. States with lower HCBS funding, such as $35 per person annually, show no significant reduction in nursing home admissions.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Anxiety hikes risk of heart attack, death

Research shows that highly anxious patients with heart disease face nearly double the risk of heart attack or death compared to those with a more serene outlook on life. Patients who started out highly anxious but later found inner calm markedly reduced their risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 14, 2007

Researchers attach genes to minichromosomes in maize

Researchers have discovered a way to create engineered minichromosomes in maize and attach genes to those minichromosomes. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for developing crops with multiple resistance traits, as well as producing medically useful proteins and metabolites.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007

Subtle signs can help predict Huntington's disease early

Researchers found that individuals with minimal motor problems at the beginning of the study were nearly five times more likely to be diagnosed with Huntington's disease a year and a half later. Those who performed worse on cognitive tests, such as psychomotor speed, were also at increased risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 14, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Marine reserves could save coral reefs

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that marine reserves can double the number of young corals, leading to a healthier reef ecosystem. The Bahamas' Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park was used as a testing ground for this innovative approach.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007

NASA's close-up look at a hurricane's eye reveals a new 'fuel' source

Computer simulations of Hurricane Bonnie's movement show that pockets of warm humid air flowing from the hurricane's eye to its ring of thunderstorms boost energy, increasing storm strength. This 'turbocharger' effect helps hurricanes remain intense despite weakening influences like cooler ocean temperatures and wind shear.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalJournal of the Atmospheric Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007

Glucosamine-like supplement inhibits multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes

A glucosamine-like supplement called GlcNAc has been found to suppress the damaging autoimmune response seen in multiple sclerosis and type-1 diabetes mellitus. In studies on mice, GlcNAc inhibited the growth and function of abnormal T-cells that incorrectly direct the immune system.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Medical research scientists make ethical value judgments in research

Researchers found that value judgments in framing research questions, identifying problems, and designing studies can lead to better research outcomes. Medical researchers may unconsciously make these value-laden decisions, mistakenly believing they automatically introduce bias.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateMay 14, 2007

Annals of Internal Medicine Tip Sheet for May 15, 2007

Prescription data sale to marketing firms is linked to lower death rates among those with depression, a study of 1,226 older adults found. Fibromyalgia patients have a lower pain threshold than healthy individuals, according to a literature review.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007

Mid-life headaches may increase risk of vision problems

A study published in Neurology found that middle-aged individuals with a history of migraine and other headaches are more likely to develop retinopathy, which can lead to severe vision problems or blindness. The association was strongest among those with migraine headaches and aura.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 14, 2007

Log-on to shape-up

A study by The Miriam Hospital found that web-based intervention programs for inactive adults were just as effective as traditional programs in increasing physical activity. Participants reported approximately 120 minutes of physical activity per week, with a 5.2% improvement in fitness over six months.

SourceLifespan·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Female-led infanticide in wild chimpanzees

Researchers report instances of three female-led infanticidal attacks in wild chimpanzee community, challenging the notion that infanticide is a male-dominated behavior. The findings suggest that deadly aggression may be part of the female behavior repertoire, possibly driven by demographic shifts and increased competition for resources.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 14, 2007

Drugs users are increasingly more cautious with needles

A recent Dutch study found that drug users are becoming more cautious when using needles, mainly due to the effective HAART therapy introduced in 1996. This increased caution has led to a significant decrease in HIV and hepatitis C infections among drug users.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateMay 14, 2007

Fly and worm models to teach researchers about human biology and medicine

The modENCODE project will analyze the genomes of Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans to identify functional elements, such as regulatory sequences and non-coding genes. These findings will aid in understanding human biology and medicine by providing insights into the conservation of genetic mechanisms across species.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateMay 14, 2007

Pediatricians and pathologists see traumatic brain injury differently

A study by Indiana University School of Medicine found that pediatricians and pathologists cannot agree on half the time whether a child's death from traumatic brain injury should be investigated as potential child abuse. Researchers developed a framework to help compare cases, aiming to improve uniform definitions for future studies.

SourceIndiana University·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Testosterone may help men with multiple sclerosis

A pilot study at UCLA found that testosterone gel reduced MS symptoms, slowed brain degeneration, and increased muscle mass in men with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study suggests a possible neuroprotective effect of testosterone treatment in men with MS.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateMay 14, 2007

Cluster makes a shocking discovery

Scientists observed large fluctuations in magnetic and electric field readings around each spacecraft, revealing variations in solar wind protons reflected by the shock. This discovery provides valuable insights into bow shocks around distant celestial objects, which can accelerate particles to extreme energies.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 14, 2007

Smoking, growing private hospital care for poor and US flu vaccine policies

Research highlights the influence of private hospital care on Medicaid patients, flu vaccine shortages, and smoking bans on health outcomes. Smoking bans at home and work significantly improve health status among nonsmokers, while racial diversity in neighborhoods affects pregnant women's decision to smoke.

SourceNew York Academy of Medicine·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies to be published by SAGE

The Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies (JLOS) will be published by SAGE, focusing on the intersection of leadership and organizational studies. The journal aims to provide scholarly understanding of effective leadership application in organizational contexts.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Leadership & Organizational Studies·DateMay 14, 2007

£3M Manchester research center to develop vital new science

The University of Manchester is establishing a £3 million research centre to develop fundamental knowledge and techniques for complex systems with discrete and continuous interactions. Researchers aim to create new prediction methods that can be applied in areas like aircraft control and car safety systems.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMay 14, 2007

'Might have been' key in evaluating behavior

Researchers discovered a key role for fictive learning in evaluating behavior, influencing decisions and potential addiction. The study used investment games and fMRI to measure brain responses to 'what could have been' outcomes, revealing a distinct signal in the ventral caudate nucleus.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Psychosocial support for cancer survivors needs strengthening

A new study found that cancer survivors are more likely to attend support groups compared to people with other chronic conditions. However, few survivors receive referrals to such programs from their physicians. The study also revealed that predictors of use include female gender, Caucasian race, and symptoms of depression or anxiety.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMay 14, 2007

Mediterranean diet halves risk of progressive lung disease

A Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is associated with a 50% lower risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study tracked the health of over 43,000 US men, finding that those who followed a Western diet were more than four times as likely to develop COPD.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalThorax·DateMay 14, 2007

Treatment of kidney condition requires an individualized approach

Researchers found that while both treatments showed promise, treatment 2 was associated with a higher risk of disease recurrence and shingles. The study suggests that patients should be thoroughly informed about the pros and cons of each treatment to make an informed decision.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateMay 14, 2007

The yin and the yang of B-cell development

A new study reveals how protein Yin Yang 1 regulates early B cell development, a crucial step in the immune system. The research demonstrates that YY1 plays a key role in controlling variable segment recombination, a process essential for B cell differentiation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

DNA-damage test could aid drug development

Researchers developed a cell culture test for assessing genetic toxicity that may prove dramatically cheaper than existing animal tests. The assay allows genetic toxicity to be examined far earlier in the drug development process, making it much more efficient.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007

Brain, size and gender surprises in latest fossil tying humans, apes and monkeys

A recently discovered fossil skull of Aegyptopithecus zeuxis, an ancient primate relative of humans, apes, and monkeys, contradicts previous assumptions about its brain size. The study suggests that the species' brain was smaller than expected, with a visual cortex indicating sharp vision, and may have had a large social group.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007

Heart-failure patients benefit from pharmacist care

A study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that pharmacist care can significantly improve medication adherence among heart-failure patients. By providing customized educational materials and regular reminders, pharmacists can help patients take their medications consistently, leading to lower health-care costs and...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007

Students devise oral quick-dissolve strips for rotavirus vaccine

Johns Hopkins students develop a thin film drug-delivery system that dissolves in the mouth, coating with a material protecting it in the stomach and releasing the vaccine in the small intestine. The system could make rotavirus vaccine more accessible to children in developing nations.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

History of migraines associated with increased risk of retinopathy

A study published in Neurology found that people with migraines are 1.3-1.5 times more likely to develop retinopathy than those without headaches. The association was strongest among those with migraine headaches and other headaches with aura, even after controlling for diabetes, glucose levels, and blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNeurology·DateMay 14, 2007

Unfair treatment boosts heart attack risk

A study of over 8,000 British government workers found that unfair treatment increased the risk of a heart attack or angina, with those in the highest category being 55% more likely to have serious heart disease. Women and lower-income individuals were also disproportionately affected.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMay 14, 2007

Parasites' impact goes beyond host to affect ecosystem

Research reveals that parasites can significantly alter the abundance of edible algae, which is a crucial resource for various organisms. This finding suggests that non-lethal impacts of parasites can have far-reaching effects on entire ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2007

Testosterone may help men with multiple sclerosis

A small pilot study suggests that testosterone treatment is safe and well-tolerated and may reduce symptoms, slow brain degeneration, and increase muscle mass in men with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Testosterone treatment showed a possible neuroprotective effect on the brain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Mammography rates declining in the United States

A new study reveals that mammography rates have declined significantly in the US between 2000 and 2005, with a notable decrease among women aged 50-64 and higher socioeconomic levels. The decline in screening rates coincides with a reduction in reported breast cancer incidence, raising concerns about potential impact on mortality rates.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMay 14, 2007

Coenzyme Q10 does not improve Parkinson's disease symptoms

A randomized clinical trial found that a 300-milligram dose of CoQ10 did not improve Parkinson's disease symptoms in patients. However, the treatment was well-tolerated and increased blood levels of CoQ10, suggesting potential benefits at higher doses.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateMay 14, 2007

A self-fulfilling prophecy in bleeding stroke?

A new study from the University of Michigan Stroke Program finds that ICH patients who had a do-not-resuscitate order issued in the first 24 hours or had care withdrawn were twice as likely to die. Early limitations on care may be an overlooked factor in calculating ICH survival odds, according to researchers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNeurology·DateMay 14, 2007

Build parks to climate proof our cities

A 10% increase in urban green space could reduce surface temperatures by as much as 4°C, effectively 'climate proofing' cities. However, this may not significantly impact the amount of rainwater captured and retained by urban areas.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBuilt Environment·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Vertical work-stations could help obese shed 30 Kilos a year

A study found that using a 'walk-and-work' desk increases energy expenditure by 100 kilocalories per hour, equivalent to shedding 20-30 kg annually. The device allows workers to walk on a treadmill while working, reducing sedentary behavior.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007

US Naval Academy-built satellite to carry NASA experiments

The US Naval Academy is partnering with NASA to build a satellite called MidSTAR-2, which will carry four experiments into space in 2011. The satellite will study the Earth's thermosphere, gamma rays, and solar winds, providing valuable insights into these phenomena.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 14, 2007

Thale cress goes on the defensive

Researchers found that thale cress responds differently to various plant pests and microorganisms, with specific hormone compositions leading to unique gene expressions.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateMay 14, 2007
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.

Childhood environment influences reproductive function

A study finds that women who migrate from Bangladesh to the UK during infancy and early childhood reach puberty earlier, are taller, and have higher progesterone levels as adults. This suggests a critical window of time between 0-8 years influences reproductive hormone levels.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 14, 2007