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Science News for April 7, 2008


U. Iowa study finds biological link between pain and fatigue

A University of Iowa study reveals a biological link between pain and fatigue, with a protein called ASIC3 playing a crucial role in protecting against muscle fatigue in women. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome due to hormonal differences.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateApr 7, 2008

Physicists saved from drowning in complexities of wetting theory

Physicists have made significant breakthrough in understanding wetting theory with the development of a new simplified mathematical formula. The formula explains fluctuations in liquid droplets on surfaces, resolving long-standing problems and outstanding discrepancies between experiments and simulations.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Sleep problems common in children with ADHD

Sleep problems are extremely common in children with ADHD, associated with poorer child psychosocial quality of life and caregiver mental health. The prevalence of mild to moderate sleep problems was found to be significant, with difficulties falling asleep and resisting bedtime being common symptoms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 7, 2008

We're surrounded! House dust is a rich source of bacteria

Researchers discovered that house dust is home to hundreds of bacterial species, with those from the human gut being prevalent. The study found that indoor environments harbor diverse microbial populations, and seasonal dynamics play a role in their distribution.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Microbiology·DateApr 7, 2008

Geisinger study: Use of digital health records improve health of the elderly

A recent Geisinger study found that reviewing patient files in the Electronic Health Record reduces elderly patients' use of psychoactive medications linked to increased fall risk. This decrease in medication usage has the potential to significantly reduce falls among the elderly, a major cause of injury and death.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Cosmic engines surprise XMM-Newton

Researchers used XMM-Newton to observe four polar BAL quasars, finding two of them emitted more X-rays than anticipated, suggesting a lack of absorbing gas. This discovery may indicate that BAL quasars are more complex than initially thought, with both equatorial and polar outflows potentially occurring simultaneously.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 7, 2008

Yale University's Strobel recognized for work on RNA

Scott A. Strobel has made seminal contributions to the understanding of RNA structure and function, revealing its catalytic role through various disciplines. He will give the award lecture at the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology annual meeting.

SourceYale University·DateApr 7, 2008

Carnegie Mellon's Nadine Aubry, colleague Pushpendra Singh develop new model

Carnegie Mellon University researchers have developed a new manufacturing strategy that can improve the efficiency of drug delivery patches, solar cells, and high-performance computing by controlling particle distribution with electric fields. The method offers flexibility, precision, and simplicity, revolutionizing two-dimensional nan...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Depression increases risk of Alzheimer's disease

A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with a history of depression are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those without one. The risk was particularly high for individuals who experienced depression before age 60, with nearly four times greater likelihood of developing the condition.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 7, 2008

'Revolutionary' CO2 maps zoom in on greenhouse gas sources

Researchers at Purdue University have developed high-resolution CO2 maps that provide detailed and accurate information on greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels. The Vulcan system reveals unexpected large sources of emissions in the southeastern US, which were previously underestimated.

SourcePurdue University·DateApr 7, 2008

Researchers 'see' structure of open nicotinic acetylcholine ion channels

Researchers at the University of Illinois have mapped the interior of a key component of the relay system that allows acetylcholine to transmit its message. The muscle nicotinic receptor, a neurotransmitter-gated ion channel, responds to acetylcholine by opening its gate and allowing positively charged ions to flow into the cell.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 7, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Child sleep problems linked to later behavioral difficulties

Excessive daytime sleepiness in children is linked to increased symptoms of anxiety and depression later in life. Parents' reports of their child's sleep patterns also show a correlation with emotional and behavioral difficulties.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 7, 2008

Depression is a risk factor rather than early sign of Alzheimer's disease

A new study finds that depression is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, rather than an early sign of its underlying pathology. The research, published in Archives of General Psychiatry, found no increase in depressive symptoms before the clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 2008

Digestive process affects anti-cancer activity of tea in gastrointestinal cells

A study found that digestion alters the structure of tea catechins and their anticancer activity. Digestion significantly reduced anticancer activity in colon cancer cells but had little effect on black tea. The findings suggest that better understanding digestion's impact on tea can lead to changes in product formulation and preparation.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 7, 2008

Double trouble with insecticide-resistant mosquitoes

Research found that Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes harbouring both ace-1R and KdrR genes have lower survival costs than those carrying only one gene, suggesting a possible advantage for multiply resistant organisms in pest management strategies.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Blood pressure enzyme can have tumor-sensing role

Researchers found that increasing production of angiotensin-converting enzyme in macrophages enhances the immune system's ability to sense and respond to tumors. This discovery suggests a strategy for amplifying immune system function in humans, potentially enhancing cancer patients' ability to resist tumor growth.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 7, 2008

An unexpected way to cause leukemia

A new mouse model has granted insight into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying acute myeloid leukemia. The study reveals that a specific mutation triggers innate genetic programmes allowing white blood cells to proliferate uncontrollably.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 7, 2008

Early neglect predicts aggressive behavior in children

A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that early child neglect is associated with higher levels of aggressive behavior between ages 4 and 8. The study, which monitored over 1,300 children from birth to age 8, highlights the importance of addressing childhood neglect.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 7, 2008

Study suggests genetic factors associated with common fears

A recent study found that genetic risk factors for common fears, such as situational or blood-injury phobias, decline in importance during childhood and adolescence. However, new genetic influences emerge during early adolescence, late adolescence, and adulthood, suggesting a dynamic relationship between genetics and fear.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 2008

Father probably caught bird flu from son

A study published in The Lancet found that a father likely contracted bird flu from his infected son, highlighting the risk of person-to-person transmission. The investigation involved testing the father and son for H5N1, as well as close contacts, revealing limited but significant transmission.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Malfunctioning kidneys may raise risk of sudden death in women

Women with poor kidney filtering ability are at increased risk of sudden cardiac death, according to a new study published by the American Heart Association. The research found that those with advanced kidney dysfunction had a 3.16 times higher risk of SCD than women with normal kidney function.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 7, 2008

When poor communication pokes you in the eye

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have identified a novel Connexin-like gene mutation that affects early lens development in mice, causing microphthalmia and cataracts. The study suggests that faulty cell communication between developing lens fibers may lead to the cloudiness of the eye lens.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateApr 7, 2008

How fast can a rat smell?

Researchers found that rats use exploratory sniffing to discriminate odors quickly, with neural responses confirming minimal processing takes place in the olfactory bulb. The study suggests odorant identity may be encoded by sequence of responses rather than peak activation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 7, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Evolution on the table top

A team of scientists has developed a computer-controlled system that can drive the evolution of improved RNA enzymes without human input. The system, known as an 'evolution-machine,' uses selection pressure to guide the evolution process, resulting in an enzyme that is 90 times more efficient at using starting ingredients.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 7, 2008

Transmitting prion diseases in milk

A study published in BMC Veterinary Research found that lambs can contract scrapie, a fatal neurodegenerative disease, by consuming milk from infected ewes. The researchers detected the prion protein PrPd in intestinal tissues of both infected and control lambs, suggesting that the infectious agent can be shed and transmitted.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Veterinary Research·DateApr 7, 2008

The not-so-digital future of digital signal processing

Researchers explore alternative materials for digital signal processing, including fungi, bacteria, and DNA, which can enhance images and compress data without electrical currents. The field holds promise for improved algorithms and applications in disease detection and data storage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the IEEE·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Salt-tolerant gene found in simple plant nothing to sneeze at

Researchers discovered a previously thought non-essential gene linked to salt tolerance in arabidopsis, which may aid in developing plants resistant to high salt levels. The finding clarifies the role of complex-N-glycan and could lead to improved crop yields in salt-affected areas.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2008

A landmark law for open access to biomedical research

The new NIH policy requires all funded research articles to be made freely available in PubMedCentral within 12 months of publication. This move aims to increase public access to scientific literature and promote better use of the scientific literature through libraries like PMC.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Maltreatment during childhood associated with combination of inflammation and depression in adults

A study of 1,000 adults found that childhood maltreatment is associated with increased levels of inflammation and depression in adulthood. Individuals with both conditions were at highest risk for cardiovascular disease. The early recognition of maltreatment history may help address pressing needs for care of depressed individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 2008

Sleep, baby, sleep: parents' behavior has direct impact on children’s slumber

A Université de Montréal study found that parents' bedtime behavior has a direct impact on children's sleep patterns. Giving children food or drink after they wake can cause bad dreams, short sleep time, and delays in falling back asleep. Staying with children at the beginning of sleep appears protective against these issues.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 7, 2008

New data on 3M's Tegaderm CHG

New data on 3M's Tegaderm CHG shows it significantly suppresses skin flora regrowth, with superior prevention of flora regrowth on prepped skin compared to transparent dressings and BIOPATCH.

SourceWeissComm Partners·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Caffeine prevents multiple sclerosis-like disease in mice

Researchers found that caffeine protects mice from developing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model for human Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Caffeine's ability to block adenosine receptors may be key to preventing immune cell infiltration into the central nervous system.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

At ACS' national meeting, global initiative set to tackle water issues

The Global Innovation Imperatives (Gii) project aims to combat global health, environmental and societal issues through chemistry-based solutions. Key focus areas include advancing science breakthroughs and addressing pressing water concerns, such as cleanliness, availability and sustainability.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 7, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Asthma and smoker's lung: dry airways play a key role

A study finds that insufficient hydration of the airway surfaces leads to pathologies typical of chronic obstructive lung diseases in humans. This could lead to a new therapeutic strategy for treating asthma and COPD by improving mucus clearance through sodium channel blockers.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 7, 2008

NASA selects 3 research fellows for GLAST mission

Three postdoctoral researchers have been chosen to support innovative research on the Gamma-ray Large Area Telescope (GLAST) mission. The program aims to stimulate new ideas and approaches to enhance the scientific return of GLAST, surveying the high-energy sky with unprecedented sensitivity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 7, 2008
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 finds anticipating a laugh reduces our stress hormones

Researchers found that anticipating a positive humorous laughter experience reduces potentially detrimental stress hormones, while increasing beneficial chemicals like beta-endorphins and human growth hormone. The study suggests that seeking out positive experiences can help reduce stress and boost overall well-being.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 7, 2008

Reprogrammed cells reduce Parkinson's symptoms in rats

Researchers successfully transplanted dopamine-producing neurons from reprogrammed skin cells into adult rat brains, reducing behavioral symptoms related to low dopamine levels. The study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of reprogrammed cells in treating Parkinson's disease.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2008

Occupational therapists use Wii for Parkinson's study

A study by Medical College of Georgia found that occupational therapy using Nintendo Wii can slow disease progression, decrease medication needs, and increase function in Parkinson's patients. The therapy helps participants improve daily activities like dressing, walking, and fine motor skills.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateApr 7, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

For children with heart disease, a risk of attention and behavior problems

A recent study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that children with congenital heart disease are at a higher risk of inattention and hyperactivity. The research, which involved 109 children aged five to 10, showed that nearly half of them required remedial services in school.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 7, 2008

Regional nuclear conflict would create near-global ozone hole, says CU-Boulder study

A limited nuclear weapons exchange between Pakistan and India could create a near-global ozone hole, with mid-latitude ozone decreases reaching up to 40 percent. This would have huge effects on human health and ecosystems, with potential rises in cataracts, skin cancer, and damage to plants and animals.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2008

Stem cell research leads to potential new therapy for rare blood disorder

A new drug candidate, TG101348, has been developed to treat a rare class of blood diseases called myeloproliferative disorders (MPD). The drug, which targets the JAK2 protein that causes overproduction of red blood cells, shows promise in halting disease progression and reversing excessive production of red blood cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 7, 2008

Less sleep, more TV leads to overweight infants and toddlers

Infants and toddlers who sleep less than 12 hours a day are twice as likely to become overweight by age 3. High levels of television viewing combined with less sleep elevates the risk, especially when children watch TV for two or more hours a day.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Elsevier launches new journal: Aeolian Research

Aeolian Research is a new quarterly journal launching January 2009, covering fundamental studies of wind physics and deposition of sediment. The journal aims to provide a single platform for aeolian process research, bringing together experts from various fields.

SourceElsevier·JournalAeolian Research·DateApr 7, 2008

Your baby's brain on drugs (and alcohol and tobacco)

A study using MRI scans found that prenatal exposure to these substances can reduce cortical gray matter and total brain volumes. The effects were additive, with more substances leading to greater reductions in brain volume. Health care providers should offer comprehensive care to pregnant women to help reduce psychoactive substance use.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 7, 2008

Surgeons announce advance in atrial fibrillation surgery

The Cox-Maze procedure has been enhanced to include an additional ablation, known as the box lesion, which improves patient outcomes by reducing atrial flutter and fibrillation. This new technique also leads to shorter hospital stays and lower use of antiarrhythmic drugs.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateApr 7, 2008

Backpack straps can decrease blood flow in the shoulder and arm

A recent study found that even light loads of 26 pounds can decrease upper extremity blood flow, contributing to shoulder fatigue. Backpack straps typically compress the axillary vein, causing abnormally high blood pressure and subsequent decreased blood flow in the shoulders and arms.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 7, 2008
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.

Memory in artificial atoms

Scientists at University of Copenhagen develop carbon nanotube transistors that can function as magnetic memories. The discovery demonstrates direct electrical control over a single electron spin, opening doors to new data storage possibilities.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 7, 2008

Changing school environment curbs weight gain in children

A two-year study in Philadelphia schools found that a multi-faceted nutrition policy reduced the incidence of overweight by 50 percent. The intervention included healthy eating initiatives, social marketing, and family outreach, resulting in a significant reduction in childhood obesity rates.

SourceTemple University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 7, 2008