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Science News for November 19, 2007


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIH grants enable energy studies

The NIH grants will support the study of cytochrome c biogenesis pathways in bacteria and humans. The long-term goal is to engineer electrical nanowires into E.coli to make an efficient biofuel cell. Researchers will also develop a screen to find inhibitors of the pathways, which could be potential antimicrobial agents.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateNov 19, 2007

President honors mentors of scientists and engineers

The US National Science Foundation has honored 11 mentors of scientists and engineers for their work in promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. These individuals have demonstrated outstanding mentoring and guidance to underrepresented students, helping to increase representation in the sciences.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateNov 19, 2007

Soldiers' facial fractures can be repaired in war zones

American soldiers with facial fractures can now undergo surgery to repair their injuries in the war zone, avoiding evacuation. The procedure has shown no complications or infections, leading to improved patient outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Facial Plastic Surgery·DateNov 19, 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.

Capacity and consent in Canada

The Canadian Medical Association Journal highlights divergent capacity and consent laws across provinces, impacting patient care and decision-making. The authors call for a national debate on the issues, advocating for explicit national standards that include family and caregiver involvement.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 19, 2007

New guideline for how to treat a person's first unprovoked seizure

The American Academy of Neurology recommends a routine electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain scans, such as CT or MRI, for adults experiencing their first unprovoked seizure. These diagnostic tools can help identify brain abnormalities that caused the seizure and predict seizure recurrence in approximately one in four patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 19, 2007

Doubled calorie intake from beverages likely contributes to adult obesity

A study found that beverage calorie intake nearly doubled from 1965 to 2002, providing an average of 21% of daily energy intake among US adults. This increase contributes significantly to the obesity crisis, with additional calories coming from sugary drinks, alcohol, and other high-calorie beverages.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalObesity Research·DateNov 19, 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.

'Biofortifying' one of the world's primary foods

A team led by Mary Lou Guerinot aims to create rice varieties with enhanced iron and zinc levels, addressing global nutritional deficiencies. The project will analyze over 1,800 rice varieties and identify genes responsible for nutrient uptake and storage.

SourceDartmouth College·DateNov 19, 2007

Researchers find memory can be manipulated by photos

A new study by UC Irvine psychologists reveals that viewing doctored photos can affect people's memories and attitudes toward public events. Participants recalled events as being bigger and more violent than they really were when presented with digitally altered images.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateNov 19, 2007

Annals of Internal Medicine Tip Sheet for Nov. 20, 2007, Issue

Physicians spend approximately 8 hours a week providing unreimbursed care outside of office visits, which can include talking with families or ordering medicines. Lumbar supports have been shown to reduce low back pain in healthcare workers with existing back pain, but not work absences.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 2007

Regulation of the retinoic acid gradient in zebrafish embryos

Researchers found that zebrafish embryos regulate levels of retinoic acid within a certain range, using an enzyme called Cyp26a1 to degrade excess acid and proteins like fibroblast growth factors (Fgfs) to slow down degradation when levels drop too low. This regulation helps maintain a robust gradient of retinoic acid.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 19, 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.

Brain differences found in people with migraine

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with migraines have a thicker somatosensory cortex area, which processes pain and sensory information. This could lead to increased sensitivity to stimulation and contribute to other pain disorders.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 19, 2007

Better detection accounts for increase in cases of thyroid cancer

A 12-year study found a significant increase in differentiated thyroid cancer cases, with small subclinical tumours accounting for the rise. Advances in medical imaging are thought to be responsible for the increased detection rate, rather than a change in disease patterns.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 19, 2007

Rogue bacteria involved in both heart disease and infertility

Anthony Azenabor's research reveals that Chlamydia bacteria can manipulate macrophage cell walls, causing atherosclerosis and disrupting hormone production in the placenta. This discovery could lead to new treatments for both heart disease and infertility by blocking cholesterol signaling.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Sciences·DateNov 19, 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.

Collaboration between medical specialties benefits patients

Papers published in this issue highlight the value of multidisciplinary collaboration, revealing treatments that spare patients' eyes during cancer treatment and develop new techniques to increase orbital volume. These advancements demonstrate enormous opportunities for knowledge advancement through specialty collaboration.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Facial Plastic Surgery·DateNov 19, 2007

Older workers stress less, U-M study suggests

The study found that older workers generally reported low levels of work-related stress, with 47% agreeing that time pressures are a source of job stress. Workers who experience less job stress are more satisfied with their life and are overall in better physical health compared to those who report higher levels of job stressors.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateNov 19, 2007

Mushrooms may aid rapid vaccine response

Researchers at Penn State are using genetically modified mushrooms to produce vaccines and other biological drugs in record time. They aim to demonstrate the ability to produce three million doses of a drug within 12 weeks.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 19, 2007

ESA honored at White House ceremony

The Ecological Society of America (ESA) received the 2006 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring. The award recognizes ESA's Strategies for Ecology Education, Development and Sustainability (SEEDS) program, which has increased diversity among its members and provided mentoring opportunities ...

SourceEcological Society of America·DateNov 19, 2007
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.

Like father, like son: Attractiveness is hereditary

A new study by the University of Exeter found that attractiveness is hereditary in fruitflies, passed on from father to son. Attractive males are more likely to mate quickly and produce successful offspring, benefiting females who can pass these traits to their sons.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 19, 2007

New evidence for female control in reproduction

Scientists report biochemical proof that female mammals can sense sperm presence and alter uterine environment to favor fertilization. This discovery has profound implications for in-vitro fertilization, cloning, and animal breeding.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateNov 19, 2007

Atmospheric measuring device for understanding smog formation

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have created a new tool to measure elusive atmospheric chemicals involved in smog formation. The device can predict the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies by quantitatively assessing hydroperoxyl radicals and their chemical pathways.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateNov 19, 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.

Eating disorders in adolescents

Research suggests that male adolescents are more likely to practice weight control behaviors and develop eating disorder symptoms due to societal pressures. In contrast, black female adolescents appear to resist these pressures, but may be at risk of becoming overweight in a culture that emphasizes super-sized portions.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateNov 19, 2007

Kaiser Permanente/Harvard Medical School study links lack of sleep to weight gain for new moms

A study by Kaiser Permanente and Harvard Medical School found that new mothers who slept five hours or less per day had a threefold higher risk for substantial weight retention (11 pounds or more) at their baby’s first birthday. Getting enough sleep, even just two hours more, may be as important as a healthy diet and exercise for new m...

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 19, 2007

Northwestern study looks at sensing, movement and behavior

A Northwestern University study quantifies the volumes of movement and sensation in animals, defining three modes - collision, reactive, and deliberative. The findings apply to understanding behavioral control strategies in animals and can aid in designing autonomous robots and improving cockpit information systems.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 19, 2007
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Gender roles and not gender bias hold back women scientists

A European Molecular Biology Organization study reveals that traditional gender roles and negative workplace cultures limit women's career advancement. Women publish less, have fewer mentoring opportunities, and are slower to advance due to family responsibilities.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Reports·DateNov 19, 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.

The earliest chocolate drink of the New World

Researchers have pushed back the known use of cacao by 500 years, tracing it to fermented beverages made from sweet pulp and seeds between 1400 and 1100 B.C.E. This discovery sheds light on the early development of chocolate culture in the Americas.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2007

Football game days tops for drinking among college students

Research from the University of Texas at Austin found college students drink larger amounts of alcohol on football game days. Women, particularly lighter drinkers, were more likely to engage in risky behaviors after consuming alcohol. The study suggests that social context plays a significant role in increased drinking rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateNov 19, 2007

MU study finds that sitting may increase risk of disease

A new model regarding physical activity recommendations is emerging, highlighting the importance of non-exercise activities in countering health risks. Researchers found that sitting for extended periods can have negative effects on fat and cholesterol metabolism, while standing can burn double the number of calories.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalDiabetes·DateNov 19, 2007

Student Facebook use predicted by race, ethnicity, education

A Northwestern University study found that college students' choice of social networking sites is influenced by their race, ethnicity, and parents' education level. The research challenges the common assumption that all college students use Facebook, revealing differences in usage among various groups.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateNov 19, 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.

Bacteria shed light on an important group of human proteins

The study revealed that Rhesus protein is made by a bacterium, Nitrosomonas europaea, and determined its first X-ray crystal structure at high resolution. This provides important insights into how these proteins facilitate ammonium movement across cell membranes in humans.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2007

Stevens Howe School professors receive Bright Ideas Awards

Four Stevens Institute of Technology professors received Bright Ideas Awards for their outstanding business research, including Sherwat Ibrahim and M. Hosein Fallah. The awards recognize their innovative work in technology management and information technology.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateNov 19, 2007

Primary care and emergency department use among elderly patients

A population-based study found that having a primary physician and high continuity of care lowered emergency department use among elderly patients. Additionally, rural residence, low socioeconomic status, and higher physician-to-population ratio were associated with increased emergency department use.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 19, 2007

Unstable housing status increases the risk of HIV transmission

Research highlights correlation between unstable housing and higher likelihood of HIV transmission; stable housing linked to reduced risk behaviors and improved healthcare outcomes. Findings challenge prevailing models and suggest housing as a key target for intervention to combat the AIDS epidemic.

SourceSpringer·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateNov 19, 2007

MIT sees acceleration in US greenhouse emissions

A new study by MIT economists suggests that US greenhouse gas emissions could accelerate in the next 50 years, with technological change possibly contributing to increased emissions. The researchers found that energy use and CO2 emissions may grow at rates higher than historical averages, despite increasing energy prices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy Policy·DateNov 19, 2007
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.

Carnegie Mellon algorithm identifies top 100 blogs for news

A versatile algorithm called Cascades, developed by Carnegie Mellon researchers, identifies the best 100 blogs to read for early access to news. The algorithm also helps design efficient sensor networks in water supply systems by balancing cost and information collection.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateNov 19, 2007

Telecommuting has mostly positive consequences for employees and employers

A meta-analysis of 46 studies on telecommuting involving 12,833 employees found that flexible work arrangements result in higher morale, lower employee stress, and improved performance ratings. The study also showed that women may derive greater benefits from telecommuting, with improved career prospects and better work-life balance.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateNov 19, 2007

Asian men who smoke may have increased risk for hair loss

A survey of 740 Taiwanese men found a statistically significant positive association between smoking and moderate to severe androgenetic alopecia, a common type of hair loss in men. The study suggests that smoking may destroy hair follicles or damage the papilla that circulates blood and hormones to stimulate hair growth.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateNov 19, 2007
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.

Pedometers motivate people with diabetes to walk more

A study by Michigan Medicine found that a pedometer program that counts every step, regardless of duration, is more satisfying for people with diabetes. This approach led to increased walking and better adherence compared to structured goals.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateNov 19, 2007

Gene therapy safety trial for childhood blindness under way

Researchers are conducting a phase 1 clinical trial using gene therapy to treat LCA2, aiming to restore vision in individuals with inherited blindness. The treatment involves injecting trillions of replacement genes into the retina, using an adeno-associated virus to deliver the therapeutic gene.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateNov 19, 2007

State Medicaid drug policies impeding access to effective drug for alcohol abuse

A study found that state Medicaid policies, such as restricting access to pharmacy networks and preferred drug lists, limit the use of naltrexone, an inexpensive therapy proven to reduce problem drinking. Changing these policies could increase naltrexone's availability and address the huge financial burden of alcohol abuse.

SourceBurness·JournalHealth Services Research·DateNov 19, 2007

Penn researchers use brain imaging to demonstrate how men and women cope differently under stress

A study using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) scans found that men and women's brains respond differently to stress, with women exhibiting stronger lasting responses in the limbic system involved in emotion. The findings suggest a fundamental difference in stress response between genders.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateNov 19, 2007

November/December Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The US is relying on medical graduates from low-income countries to fill primary care gaps, draining developing nations of needed physicians. Family physicians play a vital role in equity in healthcare, with disproportionately high rates of care for disadvantaged populations.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 19, 2007
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.

Sinus problems are treated well with safe, inexpensive treatment

A new study from Michigan Medicine found that nasal irrigations with saline are more effective than saline sprays in providing short-term relief of chronic nasal and sinus symptoms. The treatment resulted in a clinically significant improvement in quality of life, with participants experiencing 50% lower odds of frequent nasal symptoms.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateNov 19, 2007

Drug-eluting stents yield better outcomes than bare-metal ones

Researchers found that drug-eluting stents were not associated with excess risk of death or heart attack compared to bare-metal stents, with a cumulative mortality rate of 7.6% vs 8.7%. The study also showed reduced target vessel revascularization rates and enhanced durability of initial angioplasty with drug-eluting stents.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 19, 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.

How do we make sense of what we see?

A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that the brain uses a mechanism in the V2 region to identify figure and background regions of an image, providing a structure for conscious perception. This mechanism enables the brain to quickly generate a foreground-background map, allowing us to focus attention on one region at a time.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 19, 2007

MIT IDs proteins key to brain function

Researchers at MIT have identified a family of proteins essential for the formation of communication networks in the brain. The discovery could lead to therapies involving stimulation of neurite growth, repairing spinal column injuries or treating brain injuries or neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateNov 19, 2007

Study shows how embryos regulate vitamin A derivatives

A study by UC Irvine researchers has revealed how human embryos regulate levels of retinoic acid, a derivative of Vitamin A, to avoid birth defects. The study found that cells regulate retinoic acid within a certain range, using enzymes and proteins to maintain optimal levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 19, 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.

New research helps explain how tumors go undetected by the body

Scientists discovered that regulatory T cells can reverse macrophages' role in causing inflammation, allowing tumors to go undetected by the body's natural defenses. This knowledge may lead to new treatments for tumors and could also be applied to block chronic inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2007

Less is more when fighting crime

Researchers found that most crime is committed by a small fraction of criminals, and investing in rehabilitation for these individuals may have prevented some murders. By focusing on high-risk areas, governments can reduce crime and violence with more efficient resource allocation.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Experimental Criminology·DateNov 19, 2007

Cameras never lie -- but doctored photos can change history

Research published in Applied Cognitive Psychology found that doctored photos of past events can change people's memories and attitudes. The study showed significant differences in responses between those who viewed original and doctored images, highlighting the impact of manipulated media on our recall of history.

SourceWiley·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateNov 19, 2007
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.