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Science News for December 15, 2008


The virtue of variety: More options can lead to healthier choices

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that people are more likely to choose healthy options when faced with a large variety of menu items. This is because choosing from larger assortments is often more difficult, leading people to select easier-to-justify options.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008

Filling in the gaps: Personality types lead people to choose certain brands

A new study found that individuals with anxious attachment styles prefer brands with sincere personalities, such as Gap, while those with avoidant styles opt for exciting brands like Abercrombie. This research highlights the moderating role of attachment styles on consumer-brand connections.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008
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.

Scientists find link between inflamed gums and heart disease

A new study published in The FASEB Journal suggests that infected gums may be a source of inflammation leading to heart disease. Proper dental hygiene can greatly reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart disease independently.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateDec 15, 2008

Hopkins-led team solves failed vaccine mystery

Researchers discovered that a 1966 RSV vaccine's defective antibodies failed to bind to the real virus, leading to severe disease. New findings could lead to the development of safer and more effective vaccines for RSV and other respiratory viruses.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 15, 2008

Turning over a new leaf for future energy supplies

German scientists suggest biomass as a major source of energy, meeting global demand sustainably and economically. Afforestation on degraded land can produce enough biomass to replace fossil fuels, reducing CO2 emissions.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateDec 15, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

You decide: Making a good decision or avoiding a bad one?

A new study examines how consumers evaluate brand features to make choices, finding that goal-oriented individuals prefer rapid progress in decision-making, while those focused on avoiding mistakes value detailed information. This understanding has important implications for designing persuasive marketing messages.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008

Tiny MIT ecosystem may shed light on climate change

Researchers created a mini-ecosystem to study marine microorganisms' behavior and found they exhibit sophisticated foraging strategies, influencing carbon flux in the oceans. This discovery may lead to better predictions of their global-scale impact on climate.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 15, 2008

Viewing cancer cells in 'real' time

Scientists use a special glass 'window' to visualize individually-labeled tumor cells as they move through the body's microenvironments. The technique allows researchers to identify critical interactions driving intravasation and develop microenvironment-specific drugs.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 15, 2008

Goose eggs may help polar bears weather climate change

New research shows that polar bears can adapt to a changing Arctic by consuming snow goose eggs, which are rich in nutrients. As the Arctic warms, the timing of sea-ice breakup and snow goose nesting is shifting, providing an alternative source of food for subadult males.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPolar Biology·DateDec 15, 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.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that colonoscopy significantly reduces deaths from colorectal cancer due to left-sided cancers. However, the risk reduction is negligible for right-sided cancer. The study suggests that physicians should advise patients of the limitations of colonoscopy.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 15, 2008

Reducing the damage of a heart attack

Researchers discovered a protein that accelerates scar tissue formation after a heart attack, leading to impaired heart function. The finding offers potential for the development of new treatments to prevent this damage.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateDec 15, 2008

Gene subnetworks predict cancer spread

Researchers identified gene subnetworks that distinguished patient groups and uncovered new genes associated with breast cancer. These findings may lead to more accurate diagnostics and prognosis for various types of cancer, including leukemia, prostate cancer, and lung cancer.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 15, 2008
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.

Newly discovered esophagus stem cells grow into transplantable tissue, Penn study finds

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified stem cells in the esophagus that can grow into functional tissue. The researchers found that these stem cells can repair damaged tissue and potentially treat conditions like GERD and Barrett's esophagus, a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 15, 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.

Data mining of inpatient records reveals the disease pattern of obstructive sleep apnea

A study found that OSA peaks between 0-4 years, then rises from 25-29 years to a peak at 55-59 years. Comorbid conditions most frequently appearing with OSA in adults are essential hypertension, obesity, and respiratory diseases. The data mining technique revealed the full clinical picture of comorbid conditions associated with OSA.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateDec 15, 2008

UAF researchers to present at AGU press briefing

Researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks have found a strong link between Arctic land-surface temperatures and increased tundra greenness. The study used satellite data and ground-based studies to examine trends in sea ice, land temperature, and vegetation using a Normalized Difference Vegetation Index.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateDec 15, 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.

Building better bones and tissue in the lab

The University of Western Ontario has received $45.5 million in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation to develop new methods for growing stronger lab-grown bones and tissue. This will help address conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and traumatic injuries, where current lab-grown materials lack sufficient strength.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·DateDec 15, 2008

No regrets: Avoiding bad feelings about missing a great sale

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research uncovers a strategy for releasing consumers from 'regret lock' after missing a sale. By offering alternative sales on similar products, retailers can increase purchase likelihood and market share.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008

New tool could unpick complex cancer causes and help sociologists mine Facebook

Researchers have developed a new tool using graphical models to analyze complex systems, which can help uncover the underlying causes of cancer and enable sociologists to extract valuable insights from social media data. The 'Informative Priors' method incorporates current knowledge into mathematical analysis, providing more accurate r...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 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.

Home-based pulmonary rehabilitation: More freedom for COPD patients

A study by Drs. François Maltais and Jean Bourbeau found that home-based pulmonary rehabilitation is as effective as hospital-based treatment in improving symptoms and quality of life for COPD patients. The program, which involves aerobic exercises, can be performed alone and has the potential to reduce healthcare costs.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 15, 2008

Black college students get better grades with white roommate

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that African American students who live with white roommates experience a 0.30-point increase in their GPA, compared to those living with same-race roommates. This suggests that interracial roommate relationships can have a positive impact on minority students' academic success.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGroup Processes & Intergroup Relations·DateDec 15, 2008

U of T scientists solve mystery of Giant's Causeway with kitchen materials

Researchers used a mixture of water and corn starch to reproduce the hexagonal columns found at popular tourist sites like Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway. They established a relationship between column size and speed of drying, finding that slower cooling processes produce larger columns.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 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.

Physical therapy offers evidence-based solution to musculoskeletal pain

A new study published in the Spine journal found that manual physical therapy and exercise significantly improves neck pain, reducing mechanical neck pain and disability. Physical therapists can provide a conservative solution to musculoskeletal pain without expensive surgery or medication side effects.

SourceAmerican Physical Therapy Association·JournalSpine·DateDec 15, 2008

Gibbon feet provide model for early human walking

Scientists studied gibbon foot movements to understand the mechanisms of a 'flexible' foot. They found that gibbons hit the ground with their toes first and raised their heel to generate propulsion for walking.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateDec 15, 2008

Computer system fails the children it was designed to protect

A new study claims that the Integrated Children's System (ICS) is creating 'latent conditions for error' in front-line children's services, leading to potential harm to vulnerable children. The researchers argue that the system's complexity and pressure to meet deadlines are undermining good social work practice.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateDec 15, 2008

Stopping ovarian cancer by blocking proteins coded by notorious gene

Researchers at University of California, Berkeley discovered that blocking proteins coded by notorious gene MYC can stop ovarian cancer cell proliferation. By using RNA interference and small interfering RNA to silence L-Myc and N-Myc proteins, the scientists were able to shut down growth in non-amplified MYC tumors.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 15, 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.

The language of emotion: Ad slogans in native tongues connect to consumers' emotions

A new study found that marketing messages in people's native languages are more effective at evoking emotions than those in foreign languages. The researchers believe this effect is due to personal memories and language context, which are more accessible when the message is written in the consumer's native tongue.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008

Researchers map new path to colon cancer therapy

University of Texas Medical Branch researchers have identified a promising new target for colon cancer therapy by mapping the biochemical pathway critical to the spread of tumors. High levels of the enzyme Akt2 are found in association with other cancers, and its inhibition shows promise in stopping colon cancer's spread.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2008

Alcohol and licensing policy could be changing the habits of young drinkers

A new report suggests that current licensing policies are contributing to a surge in 'pre-drinking' among young people. Pre-drinking involves planned heavy drinking before attending social events, often resulting in increased alcohol consumption and negative consequences. The authors propose a comprehensive strategy to reduce pre-drink...

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateDec 15, 2008

Pain hurts more if the person hurting you means it

A study by Kurt Gray and Daniel Wegner found that participants who believed they were getting an electrical shock from another person on purpose rated the shock as more painful. In contrast, those given shocks unintentionally habituated to the pain over time.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 15, 2008

For best results, ask a few thought-provoking questions

Researchers found that initial questions deplete self-control resources, making consumers more vulnerable to persuasion. This strategy increases donations and compliance with charitable requests.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 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.

Blocking proteins coded by notorious cancer-causing gene

Researchers discovered that blocking proteins produced by the MYC oncogene can halt ovarian cancer cell proliferation. Using RNA interference, they silenced c-Myc and L-Myc proteins in lab cultures with amplified MYC, preventing cancer cell growth.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 15, 2008

New method of scoring IQ tests benefits children with intellectual disabilities

Researchers have developed a new system of scoring IQ tests for children with fragile X syndrome, a genetic disorder causing intellectual disabilities. The new method provides a more accurate assessment of the long-term learning potential of these children, helping parents and physicians diagnose and treat them more effectively.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateDec 15, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: Dec. 15, 2008

Researchers have identified a new genetic cause of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as 'Boy in the bubble syndrome'. A mutation in the DNA-PKcs gene has been found to be associated with T-B SCID, where patients lack both T and B cells. Further analysis revealed that the mutant protein retained kinase activity but was...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 15, 2008

Awards to be presented at 47th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is presenting numerous awards to recognize excellence in various fields of aerospace science. These awards are given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the academic profession, literature, and innovation in propulsion and combustion.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateDec 15, 2008

Diet may cut second breast cancers in women without hot flashes

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber has been shown to reduce the risk of recurrence in early-stage breast cancer survivors who do not experience hot flashes. This subgroup of patients typically faces higher recurrence rates and lower survival rates compared to those with hot flashes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 15, 2008
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.

Does global warming lead to a change in upper atmospheric transport?

Long-term measurements of atmospheric gases suggest that air masses are moving more slowly than expected, potentially impacting ozone layer recovery. Researchers urge further study to understand the exact mechanisms behind this phenomenon and its implications for climate models.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 15, 2008

Solar flare surprise

Researchers detected a stream of perfectly intact hydrogen atoms shooting out of an X-class solar flare, surprising scientists. The discovery suggests that all strong flares might emit hydrogen bursts, which could be detected using the NASA's STEREO spacecraft.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 15, 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.

Breathing problems during sleep associated with calories burned at rest

A study published in Archives of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found that individuals with sleep-related breathing disorders tend to burn more calories when resting. The research, which assessed 212 adults, showed a significant association between the severity of breathing disorders and increased energy expenditure.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateDec 15, 2008

Breast cancer genome shows evolution, instability of cancer

A recent study published in Genome Research has mapped genomic translocations to base pair resolution, revealing a heavily rearranged genetic blueprint in breast cancer cells. The research highlights the importance of DNA repair machinery and identifies potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Research·DateDec 15, 2008

Single virus used to convert adult cells to embryonic stem cell-like cells

Scientists have developed a new method for converting adult cells into embryonic stem cell-like cells using a single virus, cutting the number of viruses used from four to one. This approach eliminates the risks associated with multiple viruses and could potentially be used to treat diseases such as Parkinson's and diabetes.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2008

Depression, anxiety spur poor health habits, damaging heart and blood vessels

Research finds that depression and anxiety are associated with increased cardiovascular risk, particularly smoking and physical inactivity. A study of over 6,500 participants found that these factors alone accounted for nearly two-thirds of the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular illnesses.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 15, 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.

Slippery slope: 1 tiny truffle can trigger desire for more treats

A new study found that consuming a single chocolate truffle can induce cravings for fatty foods and awaken desires for luxury items. Researchers discovered that people who were allowed to eat the truffle unconsciously activated a goal of indulgence, leading them to desire more treats.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008

New genetic cause of boy in the bubble syndrome

Researchers at Erasmus Medical Center have identified a new genetic cause of Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as 'Boy in the bubble syndrome'. A mutation in the DNA-PKcs gene is found to be responsible for the disease, leading to impaired T cell and B cell development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 15, 2008

Ancient magma 'superpiles' may have shaped the continents

Researchers have discovered two giant plumes of hot rock deep within the earth linked to plate motions that shape the continents. The superplumes, one beneath Hawaii and the other beneath Africa, are surrounded by a wall of plates from Earth's crust that have sunk into the mantle.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 15, 2008

Woodruff Foundation pledges $3 million toward MCG dental building

The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation has pledged $3 million to support the construction of a new Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry building. The gift will help alleviate the shortage of dentists in Georgia, with the school increasing its class size from 63 to 100 and residency positions from 44 to 72.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateDec 15, 2008
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.

Important new insights into the lives of young adult carers

The study shows that many young adults in their 16-24 age group face emotional turmoil while juggling caring responsibilities with education and personal life. Personal experiences highlight the need for support and awareness to enable these young individuals to succeed.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateDec 15, 2008

Church effort sharply increases first-time African-American blood donors

A church-based initiative in St. Louis increased first-time African-American blood donations by 60%, with nearly 700 participants donating blood over three years. The Sickle Cell Sabbath Program educated predominantly African-American churches about sickle cell disease and its benefits, leading to more donors.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalTransfusion·DateDec 15, 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.

Diet may cut risk of breast cancer recurrence in women without hot flashes

A secondary analysis of a large clinical trial found that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence by approximately 31 percent in women without hot flashes. Women with estrogen receptor-positive cancers often receive hormone therapy to combat circulating estrogen levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 15, 2008

New gene variants present opportunities in nutrigenomics

A new study uncovers 11 gene variants associated with three blood lipids measured to determine cardiovascular disease risk. Researchers believe that these variants could lead to precise dietary recommendations for individuals at risk, such as carriers of certain gene variants who may benefit from low-cholesterol or Mediterranean diets.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 15, 2008

State bicycle survey reveals danger concerns, cycling perceptions

A survey by the University of Texas at Austin found that bicyclists in Dallas, Houston and San Antonio are more concerned with vehicle crashes than others. The study also revealed that 70% of respondents consider biking to be very or somewhat dangerous due to traffic accidents, while only 21% fear crime-related incidents.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateDec 15, 2008

Drug tests will prevent repeat of Northwick Park trial

Scientists have developed new pre-clinical tests that successfully reproduced the devastating reaction suffered by six volunteers in the 2006 Northwick Park trial. The new tests use a mixed human cell culture and drying the drug onto a plastic surface, providing a more reliable indicator of how the drug will react in humans.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateDec 15, 2008

Nature, nanotechnology fuse in electric yarn that detects blood

Engineers at the University of Michigan have developed a carbon nanotube-coated smart yarn that can detect blood and monitor health. The yarn, made from a combination of natural cotton and nanotechnology, is flexible and durable, making it suitable for wearable applications.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 15, 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.

Multiple axons and actions with PSD-95

Researchers found PSD-95 stimulates the growth of large dendritic spines that are connected to multiple axons. Reducing PSD-95 levels impairs synapse development.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateDec 15, 2008

Breathing cycles in Earth's upper atmosphere tied to solar wind disturbances

A University of Colorado at Boulder study reveals that periodic 'breathing' of the Earth's upper atmosphere is triggered by cyclic solar wind disturbances, which can alter satellite drag and cause communication disruptions. The findings should improve models for tracking satellites and predicting electronic communication issues.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateDec 15, 2008

Tracking the molecular pathway to mixed-lineage leukemia

Researchers discovered the MLL-AF4 protein binds to over 169 genes in cancer cells, hijacking blood stem cell machinery and causing cancerous cell division. This understanding may lead to new drug targets for treating mixed-lineage leukemia.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 15, 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.

Culture: The new insanity defense?

A professor of political science argues for a national policy on culture in the legal system. She proposes three conditions to reduce false claims of cultural defense, including membership in the ethnic group, tradition adherence, and influence on actions.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateDec 15, 2008

Joslin research finds nearly three-quarters of youths with diabetes insufficient in vitamin D

A study by researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that nearly three-quarters of youths with type 1 diabetes have insufficient levels of vitamin D, which may lead to bone fragility and increased fracture risk. The study recommends vitamin D supplementation to children with diabetes, especially those with inadequate sun exposure and...

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateDec 15, 2008

Go for the gold (or silver): Status tiers promote loyalty

Researchers found that adding a subordinate elite tier to a top-tier program enhances perceptions of status, while diluting the perception of status occurs when too many elites are added. The study shows that customers value exclusive programs even if they don't qualify for the highest tiers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008
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.

Just look: When it comes to art, viewing may be as satisfying as buying

A new study by Yu Chen found that buying and viewing art share similar benefits, including the desire for aesthetics, sociality, and novelty. Collectors and visitors to galleries share common values but differ in their motivations, with collectors seeking a long-term intimate relationship with artworks.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008
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.

I'm a believer: Some product claims work better than others

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research identifies four product claim structures that can be more effective in different situations. Consumers employ different logical strategies to counteract pitches, with alternative causes and disabling conditions affecting believability.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 15, 2008

FHL1 helps build muscle mass

Research suggests FHL1 enhances transcription factor NFATc1 activity to promote muscle hypertrophy. Overexpressing FHL1 in mice and myoblasts resulted in increased strength and endurance.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateDec 15, 2008

God or science? A belief in one weakens positive feelings for the other

Researchers found that using science or God to explain ultimate questions can manipulate people's attitudes towards the other. Those who use God as an explanation display a more positive association with God and a negative association with science.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateDec 15, 2008
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.

People with blindness from cataract are poorer than those with normal sight

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine has found that individuals with visual impairment caused by cataracts are disproportionately represented among the poor. The research analyzed data from Kenya, the Philippines, and Bangladesh to determine the relationship between poverty and blindness, revealing a significant association.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 15, 2008

New technique allows simultaneous tracking of gene expression and movement

A new technique allows for the simultaneous tracking of gene expression and movement in Drosophila flies, enabling researchers to study correlations between behavior, gene expression, and aging. The method uses green fluorescent protein (GFP) and specially modified video cameras to track movement and quantify GFP expression in real-time.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biotechnology·DateDec 15, 2008

Proactive care saves lives of seniors, study finds

A three-year study involving over 3,400 chronically ill seniors found that deaths among patients in a proactive care management program were significantly lower than those in the control group. Hospitalizations were also slightly lower for patients in the intervention group, with a notable benefit for those with diabetes.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateDec 15, 2008

Higher levels of obesity-related hormone found in patients with psoriasis

Researchers discovered a significant association between psoriasis and high levels of leptin, an obesity-related hormone that contributes to metabolic abnormalities. The study also found that body weight loss can decrease leptin levels and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateDec 15, 2008

Prostaglandin receptor key to atherosclerosis development

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified prostaglandin-E2 receptors as crucial players in atherosclerosis development. Mice with impaired EP4 receptors showed reduced atherosclerosis and increased macrophage programmed cell death, highlighting the importance of these signaling pathways in disease progression.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 15, 2008
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.