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Science News for September 6, 2007


Parenting help for bipolar mums and dads

A new study is providing highly successful parenting skills to parents with bipolar disorder, using the Triple P Positive Parenting Programme. The program has been shown to improve behavior in children and increase parental confidence, particularly for those experiencing instability of mood and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateSep 6, 2007

Higher social skills are distinctly human, toddler and ape study reveals

A study published in Science found that toddlers outperform apes in understanding nonverbal communications, imitating solutions to problems, and understanding intentions of others. The research suggests that humans have distinctive social cognitive skills that allow them to excel in cultural groups.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2007

Don't just save her life, save her fertility

The Oncofertility Consortium seeks to alter the medical world's approach to female cancer patients, promoting a new consciousness to protect their reproductive health. Researchers will investigate fertility threats posed by cancer treatment and develop strategies to improve communication with newly diagnosed patients.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateSep 6, 2007

Preventing variceal bleeding

Researchers found beta blockers to be more effective and safer than banding in reducing the risk of variceal bleeding in cirrhotic patients. The study, published in Liver Transplantation, compared the two treatments and found that beta blockers lowered the risk of bleeding by over 90%, while banding reduced the risk by less than 70%.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateSep 6, 2007
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Biko to Guantanamo: 30 years of medical involvement in torture

The Lancet highlights the lack of accountability for medical professionals involved in torture at Guantanamo Bay, despite the Royal College of Physicians' condemnation of force-feeding as a criminal act. Doctors accused of negligence and unethical behavior have yet to face charges or convictions.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 6, 2007

Pregnancy may increase the risk of developing binge eating disorder

A study of 100,000 pregnant Norwegian women found an unexpected increase in new cases of binge eating disorder during pregnancy. The research suggests that adequate prenatal care and nutritional support are crucial to prevent the development of disordered eating behaviors.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateSep 6, 2007

Bee researchers close in on Colony Collapse Disorder

A team of researchers has found a strong correlation between Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (IAPV) genetic material and Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) in bees. The prevalence of IAPV, the timing of outbreaks, and geographical circumstances suggest that IAPV is a significant marker for CCD.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2007

New insight into how antibiotics kill might make them deadlier

Researchers have found that three major classes of antibiotics work by ramping up harmful free radicals in bacteria, making existing antibiotics less effective. This discovery could lead to new classes of antibiotics and improved methods for treating resistant infections.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 2007
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.

A balanced memory network

A study published in PLoS Computational Biology found that the number of memories stored in the brain is limited by the number of connections between neurons, not the number of neurons. This means that a typical human brain can store at most about 500 memories, regardless of its size.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 6, 2007

NIH launches interdisciplinary research consortia

The NIH Roadmap for Medical Research is launching nine interdisciplinary research consortia to foster collaboration across multiple disciplines, addressing resistant health challenges. The program aims to transform academic research culture and provide a stimulus for academic research change.

SourceNIH/Office of the Director·DateSep 6, 2007

Old developmental pathways spawn revolutionary evolutionary changes

A team of researchers, including Arizona State University's Gro Amdam, has discovered that the Polistes wasp's larval environment determines its future royal stature through environmental cues. The study sheds light on how developmental diapause and reproduction can be adopted in primitively social settings to result in complex social ...

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2007

'Beyond Einstein' research should begin with mission to study dark energy

The National Research Council recommends pursuing the Joint Dark Energy Mission as the first mission in the 'Beyond Einstein' program, which aims to study dark energy. The report also suggests investing additional funds in technology development of the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) program.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateSep 6, 2007
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 heart failure is rare among leukemia patients on imatinib

Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that congestive heart failure is rare among leukemia patients taking imatinib. Only 22 out of 1,276 patients developed symptoms that could be caused by heart failure, and most had underlying medical conditions that also contributed to their condition.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalBlood·DateSep 6, 2007

Connection between virus and Colony Collapse Disorder in bees

Researchers discover Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (IAPV) significantly associated with colony collapse disorder (CCD) in honey bee colonies. IAPV was found in all four affected operations and correctly distinguished CCD from non-CCD status 96.1% of the time.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 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.

Heat stress influences low conception of dairy herds

Researchers found that heat stress, measured by temperature-humidity index (THI), was a significant factor in low conception rates of dairy herds. High THI values before insemination, particularly on Day 3, led to ovulation failure and reduced fertility. Conversely, cooling measures implemented when temperatures exceeded 20°C improved ...

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalTheriogenology·DateSep 6, 2007

Height or flight?

New evidence from a tiny Mongolian dinosaur suggests that small size evolved before flight in dinosaurs, forcing paleontologists to re-examine their assumptions about the evolution of birds. The study found that some dinosaur lineages actually increased in size over time, contradicting previous theories.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2007

Boston University biomedical engineers find chink in bacteria's armor

Researchers at Boston University have found a previously unknown chain of events in bacteria that opens the door to new avenues of research. The team discovered a common process triggered by all three types of antibiotics, resulting in excessive free radical production that can be amplified or weakened to enhance lethality.

SourceBoston University·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 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.

The American Society of Plant Biologists announces 2007 awards

The American Society of Plant Biologists awarded Fellow of ASPB, Adolph E. Gude, Jr., Award, Charles Albert Shull Award, Charles Reid Barnes Life Membership Award, Corresponding Membership Award, Excellence in Teaching Award, and Martin Gibbs Medal to distinguished researchers and educators in plant biology.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·DateSep 6, 2007

New system helps aircraft avoid turbulence

A new turbulence detection system using NEXRAD Doppler radars provides real-time snapshots of turbulence to pilots, helping them avoid hazardous areas. The system's accuracy is reported to be high, with pilots praising its ability to provide accurate information about turbulence location and intensity.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateSep 6, 2007

Skin as a living coloring book

Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital found that the Foxn1 gene determines where pigment is deposited in the epidermis and hair. The study reveals that melanocytes deliver melanin to specific cells indicated by the Foxn1 gene, which acts as a map for pigment distribution.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 2007
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.

UGA researchers discover how human body fights off African parasite

Researchers found that the human immune system uses hemoglobin to bind to HDL and create a toxin that clears trypanosomes from the body. This discovery could lead to better treatment options for cattle infections and provide insights into understanding why some parasites don't infect humans.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 6, 2007

Progress made in research on mysteriously disappearing honeybees

Researchers identified a virus, Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (IAPV), as a leading candidate in the deaths of tens of billions of bees. The study found that IAPV was only present in collapsed colonies, suggesting a possible causal relationship between infection and Colony Collapse Disorder.

SourceRusso Partners, LLC·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2007

Elsevier launches new journal: Stem Cell Research

The new journal Stem Cell Research will cover all aspects of stem cell research, including embryonic stem cells, cancer stem cells, and developmental studies. It aims to disseminate the results of ongoing research in this rapidly expanding field, with a focus on high-quality peer-reviewed studies.

SourceElsevier·JournalStem Cell Research·DateSep 6, 2007

Improved e-jet printing provides higher resolution and more versatility

The team's new e-jet printing process can produce lines as narrow as 700 nanometers and dots as small as 250 nanometers using electrically induced fluid flow and nanoscale nozzles. This technology has potential applications in large-area circuits, displays, photovoltaic modules, security, biotechnology, and photonics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 6, 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.

Soy isoflavone may inhibit common gastrointestinal illness in infants

Researchers discovered that soy isoflavone genistin significantly reduced rotavirus infectivity by 33-74%, with the active component being genistin alone. The study found an effective range of concentrations, and the results held up even in high levels of rotavirus exposure.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateSep 6, 2007

Primates expect others to act rationally

A new study by Harvard researchers found that non-human primates infer intentions based on rational action, not just surface-level appearances. The primates chose the most accessible food container in each scenario, demonstrating a human-like understanding of others' goals and actions.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2007

AAAS to develop science-based teaching tools on underage alcohol use

The AAAS project aims to provide a science-based understanding of alcohol's effects on the body, focusing on key scientific concepts and recent advances in neuroscience. The initiative will offer students and teachers a comprehensive resource for teaching and learning about underage drinking.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateSep 6, 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.

Study identifies genetic risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus

Researchers have identified a genetic risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus, with the STAT4 gene variant linked to increased disease risk in both conditions. The study suggests a shared disease pathway between RA and lupus, paving the way for potential new therapies targeting this pathway.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 6, 2007

Pain patients at risk for sleep apnea

A recent study found that chronic pain patients taking opioid therapy are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea. The research, published in Pain Medicine, suggests a direct dose-response relationship between central sleep apnea and methadone and benzodiazepines.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pain Medicine·JournalPain Medicine·DateSep 6, 2007

Virus named as possible factor in honey bee disorder

A study published by AAAS suggests that Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (IAPV) is a potential cause of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), a phenomenon where adult bees disappear from hives. Researchers found molecular signs of IAPV associated with CCD, but stressors like poor nutrition and pesticide exposure are also likely involved.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 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.

Temple Emergency Medicine receives $1.8M to find best MRSA treatment

Temple University's Department of Emergency Medicine is participating in a nationwide study to identify the best outpatient therapy for community-acquired MRSA, a growing concern with antibiotic-resistant properties. The research aims to determine effective treatments and gain FDA approval for generic antibiotics.

SourceTemple University·DateSep 6, 2007

Innovation Voucher winners announced

Forty SMEs in the West Midlands region have won innovation vouchers to collaborate with 13 UK universities, receiving £3000 each. The INDEX project aims to create a positive link between SMEs and universities, generating real innovation.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateSep 6, 2007

Scientists harvest answers from genome of grain fungus

Researchers have sequenced the genome of Fusarium graminearum, a fungal plant pathogen that causes devastating blight in wheat and barley crops. The study reveals unstable regions of the genome where disease-causing genes reside, providing insights into the fungus's ability to evolve and adapt.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 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.

Drug's potential adverse side effect explained

A new study suggests that PPAR-gamma agonists, used to treat diabetes, may cause heart failure due to fat accumulation and cell dysfunction. Increased activity of the receptor leads to glucolipotoxicity, a condition characterized by deterioration in heart function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 6, 2007

Researcher developing new method for hearing loss assessment

A new technique to diagnose hearing loss is being developed at Purdue University, reflecting more natural listening situations with visual cues. The research aims to improve therapy and interventions, such as cochlear implants, for individuals with hearing loss.

SourcePurdue University·DateSep 6, 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.

Hunger hormone fights aging in the thymus

Research suggests that ghrelin improves thymic mass and T cell output with increased diversity of the TCR repertoire in mice, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic approach to boost immune function in elderly or immunocompromised individuals.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 6, 2007

Researchers develop mouse model of autism spectrum disorders

Scientists engineered mice with a single mutation in the neuroligin-3 gene to study autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), finding improved spatial learning and memory while impairing social interactions. The mouse model may help understand how specific defects in neural development lead to ASDs.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2007

Newer antidepressants led to less, not more, teen suicides

A new study suggests that newer antidepressants are likely to reduce suicide risk in teens, contrary to earlier warnings. The researchers found a significant protective benefit from these medications, with only a small group of people being adversely affected.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 6, 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.

Embryonic stem cells used to grow cartilage

Researchers have successfully grown cartilage-like cells from human embryonic stem cells using the Rice method. The study's results mimic different types of cartilage found in the human body, such as hyaline articular cartilage and fibrocartilage.

SourceRice University·JournalStem Cells·DateSep 6, 2007

New faraway sensors warn of emerging hurricane's strength

Researchers can now investigate the relationship between eyewall lightning outbreaks and hurricane strength using highly-sensitive sensors thousands of miles from the storm. The study, supported by NASA and the U.S. Office of Naval Research, uses data from a network of new sensors to improve hurricane forecasts and potentially save lives.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalMonthly Weather Review·DateSep 6, 2007

The genes involved in rheumatoid arthritis identified

An international team of researchers has identified three new genes associated with rheumatoid arthritis, including TRAF-C5 and STAT4. The study analyzed the genomes of over 1,500 patients and 1,850 controls, revealing a broader understanding of the disease's genetic mechanisms.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 6, 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.

JCI table of contents: Sept. 6, 2007

Researchers discover ghrelin promotes thymopoiesis during aging, boosting T cell output, while also finding PPAR-gamma agonists exacerbate cardiac dysfunction due to glucolipotoxicity. Additionally, a study finds osteopontin deficiency in mice leads to improved insulin sensitivity despite obesity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 6, 2007

Evolution of genomic imprinting

Genomic imprinting evolved in a stepwise, adaptive way, with genes becoming imprinted as needed. The study provides important clues about the evolution of imprinting, despite its complex nature.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateSep 6, 2007