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Science News for June 25, 2008


Nanotubes could help study retrovirus transmission between human cells

Researchers have discovered that naturally occurring nanotubes can form tunnels to protect retroviruses and bacteria from diseased to healthy cells. The nanotubes, which are recognized as tiny but important bodily channels, also aid in transporting bacteria to their doom and facilitating information exchange between cells.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalLangmuir·DateJun 25, 2008

NCI grant launches clinical trials for colon cancer screening

A Northwestern University biomedical engineer has developed optical technology that can detect colon cancer early and is now being tested in large-scale clinical trials. The tests aim to predict the presence of colon cancer with adequate sensitivity, potentially leading to a routine screening test.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJun 25, 2008

Preshaw receives Young Investigator Award

Dr. Philip Preshaw is being recognized for his groundbreaking research on the effects of quitting smoking on periodontal treatment outcomes. He has co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and holds multiple prestigious awards, including the UK National Clinician Scientist award.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Childers receives research in Oral Biology Award

Dr. Childers' research on mucosal immune responses and dental caries vaccine development has contributed to a better understanding of oral health. He currently supervises projects funded by NIDCR, investigating host/parasite relationships in dental caries high-caries-risk populations.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Oral Medicine & Pathology Research Award presented to Speight

The International Association for Dental Research presents the 2008 Oral Medicine & Pathology Research Award to Dr. Paul Speight for his contributions to understanding oral cancer, screening, and early detection of lymphoma in Sjögren's syndrome patients. His research focuses on photodynamic therapy and has been widely published.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Marketers are creating an imaginary, cross-cultural, Asian world

Researchers found that Asian brands use a 'global, urban, and multicultural' image in their advertising campaigns. The study demonstrates how Asian corporations are redefining globalization with a more contemporary vision of Asia.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Neuroscientists discover a sense of adventure

Researchers identified a brain region associated with novel experiences, which may drive humans to take risks for rewards. This discovery could have implications for understanding addiction and decision-making.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNeuron·DateJun 25, 2008

Wilmer Souder Award presented to Marek

The International Association for Dental Research presents Dr. Miroslav Marek with the Wilmer Souder Award for his exceptional contributions to corrosion science and standardization, particularly in restoratives, implants, and dental amalgam. He is being recognized for his influential work on mercury release from dental amalgam.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UGA research may lead to safer, more effective gene therapy

Scientists at UGA create novel synthetic gene vectors that package DNA into nanostructures for efficient gene delivery without triggering immune responses. The study has implications for cancer treatment and vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalMolecular BioSystems·DateJun 25, 2008

Mars air once had moisture, new soil analysis says

A new study by University of California, Berkeley researchers suggests that Mars had liquid water in its atmosphere during the Hesperian epoch, contrary to the dominant view. The analysis of Martian soil data reveals chemical signs of water moving downward through the dirt, indicating a climate with enough moisture for dew or rain.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateJun 25, 2008

New and improved? Novelty drives choice behavior

Researchers found that humans prefer novel stimuli over familiar ones and associate novelty with activation of the ventral striatum, a region linked to reward anticipation. This suggests humans use novelty as a substitute for true choice uncertainty.

SourceCell Press·DateJun 25, 2008

IADR Research in Dental Caries Award presented to Lussi

Dr. Adrian Lussi is recognized as a pioneer in dental erosion and caries research, with over 160 publications and executive positions. He received the Research in Dental Caries Award for innovative achievements in caries diagnosis.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 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.

Salutary pizza spice

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered that oregano's active ingredient beta-caryophyllin inhibits inflammation and may help treat osteoporosis, arteriosclerosis, and chronic disorders like Crohn's disease. The substance targets cannabinoid-CB2 receptors, providing a non-intoxicating alternative to existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2008

Disclosure of organ transplant risks: A question of when, not if

The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine team proposes a new policy requiring transplant programs to disclose all foreseeable risks of the surgery to potential recipients at the waiting list. This change aims to promote greater equity in organ allocation and restrict 'cherry-picking' of organs from suitable but suboptimal donors.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 25, 2008

Killer whales, blind bats, discriminating dolphins, mating birds

Researchers discuss how noise affects marine mammals, including beaked whales and killer whales, as well as the impact of urbanization on bird communication. The study highlights various mechanisms animals use to compensate for elevated noise and explores the effects of sonar and other human sounds on marine and land animals.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateJun 25, 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.

NIAID creates HIV vaccine discovery branch

The NIAID Vaccine Discovery Branch aims to remove fundamental obstacles to achieving a safe and effective HIV vaccine by focusing on the development and sharing of new knowledge. The branch will monitor scientific developments, identify gaps in knowledge, and promote research collaborations.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJun 25, 2008

Implicit political attitudes can predict future voting behavior

A new study in Political Psychology reveals that people's future voting decisions are influenced by their unconscious automatic mental associations. Researchers found a clear relation between implicit attitudes and subsequent voting behavior, with undecided voters' automatic preferences predicting their vote four weeks later.

SourceWiley·JournalPolitical Psychology·DateJun 25, 2008

Fire under the ice

An international team of researchers has discovered extensive layers of volcanic ash on the seafloor of the Gakkel Ridge in the Arctic Ocean, indicating a gigantic volcanic eruption. The find challenges previous assumptions that explosive volcanism cannot occur at great water depths.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateJun 25, 2008

Report -- adapting farming to climate change

The CSIRO report highlights the importance of building adaptive capacity among farm managers and agri-businesses. It suggests that incremental changes may be sufficient for some regions, while others will need more transformative adaptations.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateJun 25, 2008

Nakayama to receive Basic Research in Periodontal Disease Award

Dr. Koji Nakayama is recognized for his groundbreaking research on Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key player in periodontal disease and potential systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease. He has published over 75 papers on this topic and received the 2000 Rokuzo Kobayashi Memorial Award.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 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.

Morbid thoughts whet the appetite

Research found that thinking about one's own death can trigger overeating, especially among individuals with low self-esteem. The study used mortality salience to explain the effect of death-related thoughts on consumption behavior.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 25, 2008

LLNL researchers peer into water in carbon nanotubes

Researchers used NMR to study water in single-walled carbon nanotubes, revealing distinct properties. The findings could lead to more efficient desalination and demineralization using carbon nanotube membranes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 25, 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.

Mixed feelings not remembered as well as happy or sad ones

Researchers found that people tend to underestimate the intensity of their mixed feelings when recalling them. This effect is more pronounced over time and affects individuals from different ethnic backgrounds differently.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Was it good for you too?

A new study by Professor Anne Campbell found that women are more likely to experience regret and decreased satisfaction after a one-night stand compared to men. Despite taking part in casual sex, women do not view it as a precursor to long-term relationships.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Nature·DateJun 25, 2008

Looming tropical disaster needs urgent action

Researchers warn of a 'biodiversity tragedy in progress' due to tropical habitat loss, with up to 15 million hectares lost annually. The review calls for an immediate, multi-pronged approach to conserve ecosystems and mitigate human impacts.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 25, 2008

1 step closer to green chemistry and improved pharmaceuticals

A team of researchers at the University of Copenhagen has developed a new mathematical model to describe the three-dimensional shape of proteins. This breakthrough tool will aid in the development of more efficient pharmaceuticals for diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and AIDS by enhancing understanding of protein structures.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 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.

Atchison receives Behavioral, Epidemiological and Health Services Research Award

Dr. Kathryn Atchison is being recognized for her outstanding achievements in dental public health and behavioral sciences, with over 70 peer-reviewed articles and a well-funded research program. She serves as Vice- Provost of Intellectual Property & Industrial Relations at UCLA and has held various leadership positions in the Ameri...

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Purple extremist thrives under inhospitable conditions

Researchers at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research identify enzyme that requires acids and dissolved metals to function, repairing genetic damage under extreme conditions. This discovery opens up new possibilities for biotechnological applications and potential treatments for diseases characterized by over-acidification.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2008

High levels of urinary albumin in the normal range predict hypertension

A study found that higher levels of urinary albumin in healthy individuals, even within the considered normal range, increase the risk of developing hypertension. This suggests that kidney damage or endothelial dysfunction may be precursors to high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 25, 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.

Independent thinkers judge distances differently than holistic types

A new study reveals that individuals with an independent self-construal are more likely to misjudge distances, while those with an interdependent self-construal perform better when considering multiple factors. This difference affects spatial judgments and highlights the importance of cultural background in shaping our perceptions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Low childhood IQ linked to type of dementia

A study published in Neurology found that children with lower IQs are more likely to develop vascular dementia later in life. The research compared the cognitive abilities of 173 people who developed dementia to those who did not, and found a significant link between low childhood IQ and an increased risk of vascular dementia.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 25, 2008

The high cost of low status: Feeling powerless leads to expensive purchases

A new study found that individuals who feel powerless are more willing to pay higher prices for status-symbol items. Researchers Derek D. Rucker and Adam D. Galinsky discovered this phenomenon through three experiments, showing that powerlessness leads to increased willingness to pay for luxury goods.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Giant impact explains Mars dichotomy

Scientists at Caltech used computer modeling to demonstrate that the Mars dichotomy can be explained by one giant impact early in the planet's history. The study found that an impact energy of around 10^29 joules, equivalent to 100 billion gigatons of TNT, would have created the lowlands and highlands on Mars.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 25, 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.

Are you a different person when you speak a different language?

Researchers found significant levels of frame-shifting among biculturals, who switch cultural frames more quickly and easily than bilingual monoculturals. Biculturals perceive themselves as more assertive in one language and have different perceptions of women in ads.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 25, 2008

ASTRO announces recipients of 2008 awards, grants

ASTRO awarded several scholarships to young researchers in radiation oncology, including the Junior Faculty Career Research Training Award to Christopher D. Willey and Erik P. Sulman. The Residents/Fellows in Radiation Oncology Research Seed Grant Award also supported projects by Randall Joel Kimple and Shig-Hsin Eddy Yang.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateJun 25, 2008

State policies influence drug treatment programs

A study found that state policies requiring comprehensive diagnostic criteria and specific services are associated with positive treatment outcomes. Most programs performed diagnostic assessment, group and individual therapy, but had lower rates of family counseling.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Substance Abuse Treatment·DateJun 25, 2008

Too many choices can spoil the research

A recent study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that more complex and statistically efficient choice experiments result in less consistent participant responses. The researchers suggest that optimal design choices may impose a higher cognitive load on participants, leading to decreased consistency in their decisions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 25, 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.

George to receive Pulp Biology and Regeneration Award

Dr. Anne George has been recognized with the IADR Pulp Biology and Regeneration Award for her pioneering research on dentin matrix biology. Her work has significantly advanced our understanding of biomineralization in bones and teeth.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Fischman receives Pharmacology/Therapeutics/Toxicology Research Award

Dr. Fischman has made significant contributions to the evaluation of drugs used to prevent and treat dental caries and periodontal diseases through his design and analysis of clinical trials and publication of guidelines for colleagues. His research studies have evaluated over 100 chemical agents, providing benchmarks for clinical trials.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Destruction of greenhouse gases over tropical Atlantic

Researchers find large amounts of ozone being destroyed over the tropical Atlantic Ocean, potentially leading to increased greenhouse gas methane. The discovery was made using data from the Cape Verde Atmospheric Observatory and has significant implications for future climate predictions.

SourceThe National Centre for Atmospheric Science·JournalNature·DateJun 25, 2008

Migrating songbirds learn survival tips on the fly

Research at Queen's University reveals that migrating songbirds observe and learn from local birds' 'mob' behavior to avoid predators. By recognizing social cues, they can gain valuable information about predator location and identity.

SourceQueen's University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJun 25, 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.

Geriatric Oral Research Award presented to Steele

Dr. James Steele has received the prestigious Geriatric Oral Research Award for his pioneering research on the relationships between oral health and nutrition in older adults. His work, which spans over three decades, has significantly advanced our understanding of the impacts of oral health on disease and well-being in the elderly.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

International Association for Dental Research presents awards and fellowships

The International Association for Dental Research presented several prestigious awards and fellowships to recognize significant contributions to dental research, including the IADR Honorary Membership, IADR Distinguished Service Award, and IADR/AADR William J. Gies Awards. The awards are designed to stimulate research in oral health pr...

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Home-based cognitive behavioral therapy relieves IBS symptoms

A new pilot study has shown that a self-administered, at-home cognitive behavioral program can relieve IBS symptoms comparable to office-based therapy. The findings are significant because there are no reliable medicines available to treat the full range of IBS symptoms.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJun 25, 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 fight for the best quantum bit (qubit)

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery by studying the interaction between two electrons in a carbon nanotube, paving the way for a quantum mechanical bit. The breakthrough could lead to the creation of a revolutionary quantum computer capable of solving complex calculations much faster than current computers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 25, 2008

IADR to present Biological Mineralization Award to Franceschi

Dr. Franceschi is being recognized for his scientific contributions to mineralized tissue research, including the discovery of vitamin D regulation targets and the development of gene therapy approaches for bone regeneration. He will receive the award at the IADR 86th General Session & Exhibition in Toronto on July 2, 2008.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 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.

Closing the gap between fish and land animals

Fossils of Ventastega, a primitive tetrapod, provide insights into the transition from fish to land animals. The new discoveries show that different parts of the body evolved at different speeds during this process.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateJun 25, 2008

Craniofacial Biology Research Award presented to Baumrind

Dr. Sheldon Baumrind is honored for his extensive work in craniofacial biology, including clinical investigation and application of devices and engineering concepts. His research includes articles on randomized clinical trials, radiographic assessment, and orthodontics.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Thesleff to receive Isaac Schour Memorial Award

Dr. Thesleff is being honored for her early research work on the associations between oral clefts and drugs taken during pregnancy, as well as her studies on the development of tooth germs and teeth. She has published over 250 papers and made significant contributions to the public understanding of science in her domain.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 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.

Hurried doctor visits may leave patients feeling forgetful

A University of Rochester Medical Center study found that doctors rarely use effective methods to help patients remember medical instructions, such as summarizing treatment recommendations or asking patients to repeat back what they've been told. The results suggest a need for new approaches to improve patient recall in busy practices.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 25, 2008

Study: Media bias can net mistakes at the ballot box

A new study by University of Illinois economists finds that media bias can influence voters' decisions, with conservative and liberal outlets favoring their respective candidates. Selective reporting can lead to incomplete information, causing mistakes at the polls.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Public Economics·DateJun 25, 2008

Slade to be presented with H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award

Dr. Gary Slade has been recognized with the H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award for his distinguished contributions to research in behavioral science, epidemiology, and public health. His work has focused on population oral health surveillance and the impact of oral conditions on quality of life.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 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.

Melvin receives Salivary Research Award

Dr. James Melvin, Director of the Center for Oral Biology, University of Rochester, received the 2008 Salivary Research Award for his studies on ion transport mechanisms underlying fluid secretion. The award recognizes his contributions to advancing research and increasing knowledge to improve oral health.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Sound medicine

Scientists are exploring the use of sound waves to assess atherosclerotic plaques, monitor chronic liver disease, and deliver drugs to specific locations in the body. Researchers have also developed new techniques for treating cancer, including minimally invasive thermal ablation methods and microbubbles-based therapies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateJun 25, 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.

Avalanche photodiodes target bioterrorism agents

Researchers developed ultraviolet avalanche photodiodes to detect anthrax and other bioterrorism agents in the air. The devices offer high gain, reliability, and robustness, making them ideal for rapid containment of incidents like the 2001 anthrax attacks.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalElectronics Letters·DateJun 25, 2008

Research in Prosthodontics and Implants Award presented to Garrett

Dr. Neal Garrett has been recognized for his research focus on restoring oral function and quality of life following tooth loss or other oral impairment in the elderly. He established the functional efficacy of various denture parameters and types utilizing dental implants, improving mastication and patient perceptions.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 25, 2008

Silicon photonic crystals key to optical cloaking, researchers say

Researchers at the University of Illinois have demonstrated an approximate cloaking effect using concentric rings of silicon photonic crystals. The technique could potentially create a practical solution for optical cloaking by bending light around objects, making them invisible.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 25, 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.

Bedsharing and bassinets: 2 new studies assess the risks

Two new studies evaluate bassinet use and bedsharing, finding that lack of oxygen is a common cause of death in bassinets. The researchers also identify risk factors for bassinet use, including blankets, pillows, and plastic bags.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 25, 2008