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Science News for April 14, 2009


Tentacles of venom: New study reveals all octopuses are venomous

A new study by researchers from the University of Melbourne and others has found that all octopuses possess venomous capabilities, with a common ancient ancestor producing specialized proteins. The team's findings also highlight the importance of cephalopod venoms in drug development for conditions such as pain management and allergies.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJournal of Molecular Evolution·DateApr 14, 2009

Energy drinks work -- in mysterious ways!

Researchers found that sugary drinks and tasteless carbohydrates can significantly improve endurance event performance. Athletes given glucose or maltodextrin drinks outperformed those on 'disguised' water by 2-3%.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Scaling the wall of deafness

A new study by Prof. Karen Avraham at Tel Aviv University has discovered that microRNAs are involved in the development of deafness, opening up new avenues for treatment and potential cure. The researchers found that microRNAs help regulate cell functions in the ear, and their loss can lead to progressive hearing loss.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2009

Low glycemic breakfast may increase benefits of working out

Consuming a low-glycemic breakfast before exercise may boost fat oxidation during and after physical activity. A recent study found that this type of pre-exercise meal increased fat metabolism in sedentary individuals, potentially aiding in weight loss efforts.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition - 2017·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateApr 14, 2009

Minimizing the spread of deadly Hendra virus

A groundbreaking CSIRO study has defined the period when horses are most likely to shed Hendra virus, enabling early diagnosis and prevention of transmission. This breakthrough aims to reduce the risk of spread to both humans and susceptible horses.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Time record of marine species formation in the Baltic Sea

Researchers at University of Gothenburg discover Fucus radicans, a new seaweed species formed less than 2,500 years ago. The study highlights the rapid formation of new species in the young and species-poor Baltic Sea ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateApr 14, 2009

Plant gene mapping may lead to better biofuel production

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have created a 'family tree' of genes expressed in woody and herbaceous plants, uncovering clues for engineering plants more efficient for biofuel production. They identified 94 and 61 genes that may carry the genetic instructions for making enzymes controlling cell-wall modification.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPlant Molecular Biology·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Argonne's Leadership Computing Facility working to get more science per watt

Researchers at Argonne's Leadership Computing Facility are continually seeking ways to further reduce the power needed to operate supercomputers. By leveraging the Chicago area's cold climate to chill water used for cooling, they save up to $25,000 per month in electricity costs. The team is also experimenting with varying chilled wate...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateApr 14, 2009

Findings show insulin -- not genes -- linked to obesity

Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that insulin processing, rather than genetic factors, plays a crucial role in determining how cells store fat. The study used single-cell profiling techniques to examine the relationship between insulin signaling and fat storage in genetically identical cells.

SourcePurdue University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 2009

R U learning?

A pilot study is testing the effectiveness of text messaging as a medium for delivering HIV prevention education to at-risk teens. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, uses a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-approved curriculum and involves sending text, image, and video material to teen participants.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Statins reduce stroke risk by 1/5

The study found that statin use is associated with a significant reduction in stroke risk, with each 1 mmol/L decrease in LDL cholesterol resulting in a relative risk reduction of 21%. Statins also have additional benefits for cardiovascular health, including lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 14, 2009

Duke physicists see the cosmos in a coffee cup

Researchers found that the 'caustic curve' shape, seen in sunlight reflections on water or boat hulls, is connected to gravitational lensing effects in distant galaxies. The discovery could enable scientists to map dark matter clumps using caustic violations.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Physics·DateApr 14, 2009

Study confirms 3 Neanderthal sub-groups

Researchers confirm the existence of three separate Neanderthal sub-groups in Western Europe, southern Europe, and the Levant, with a fourth group found in western Asia. The study suggests that climate conditions played a significant role in shaping the population's geographical distribution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MSU researcher develops E. coli vaccine

A MSU researcher has developed a working vaccine for Enterotoxigenic E. coli, responsible for 60% of all E. coli diarrheal disease. The vaccine could save untold lives and also provide relief from post-operative complications such as paralytic ileus and urinary retention.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 14, 2009

Spit, anyone?

US Department of Homeland Security scientist Mark Nicas builds mathematical models of spittle dispersal to inform countermeasures against potential biological attacks and pandemics. His research aims to reduce the risk of infection transmission on airplanes and in other public spaces, advising people to sit at least three rows away fro...

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

OHSU School of Dentistry finds some orthodontic appliances are more prone to bacteria

A new study by OHSU School of Dentistry found that patients with self-ligating orthodontic brackets retained significantly fewer oral bacteria in plaque compared to those with elastomeric brackets. The researchers also developed a rapid and reliable method for quantifying oral bacteria using ATP-driven bioluminescence.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAmerican Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics·DateApr 14, 2009

Largemouth bass vulnerability to being caught by anglers a heritable trait

Researchers found that largemouth bass vulnerability to being caught by anglers is influenced by genetic factors. The study showed that repeated catches increase an individual fish's susceptibility to angling, making it more vulnerable to future catches.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalTransactions of the American Fisheries Society·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Fatty liver disease: The next big thing

Research connects poor fitness to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), highlighting a crucial link between obesity-related illnesses. Exercise may potentially treat or prevent NAFLD by protecting against metabolic diseases.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateApr 14, 2009

Using PET/CT imaging, UCLA researchers can tell after a single treatment if chemotherapy is working

Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed a non-invasive method to determine whether chemotherapy is working after a single treatment cycle, allowing oncologists to discontinue ineffective treatments sooner. This breakthrough enables faster decision-making and potentially improves patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Nebraska Mathematics Department receives AMS national award

The Nebraska Mathematics Department received the 2009 American Mathematical Society Award for an Exemplary Program or Achievement in a Mathematics Department. The department's innovative programs, such as mentoring women PhD students and promoting math education, have had a profound effect on the discipline.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·DateApr 14, 2009

A cure for honey bee colony collapse?

Researchers discovered Nosema ceranae, a Microsporidia parasite, is the primary cause of honey bee colony depopulation syndrome in professional apiaries. Treating infected colonies with flumagillin resulted in complete recovery.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology Reports·DateApr 14, 2009

Signals from stroking have direct route to brain

Researchers found a specialized nerve fiber in skin that transmits stroking signals directly to the brain, potentially explaining why touching can relieve pain. The study used microneurography to analyze nerve signals and found that increased frequency of these signals led to increased pleasantness.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 14, 2009

People's misperceptions cloud their understanding of rainy weather forecasts

A new study from the University of Washington found that people's understanding of rainy weather forecasts is hindered by misconceptions about probability and uncertainty. Researchers tested over 450 college students and found that many incorrectly assumed deterministic forecasts, leading to unnecessary precautions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateApr 14, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists discover way to jumpstart bone's healing process

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the treatment of bone injuries, using teriparatide to jumpstart the body's natural healing process. The study shows significant healing and pain control in patients with unhealed bone fractures, offering new hope for those with no effective treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateApr 14, 2009

Cuts in greenhouse gas emissions would save Arctic ice, reduce sea level rise

A new analysis suggests that drastic emission cuts could stabilize climate change, saving Arctic ice and reducing sea level rise. Global temperatures would still rise, but the most dangerous impacts could be partially avoided with a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 14, 2009

Researchers study signaling networks that set up genetic code

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified and visualized signaling pathways in protein-RNA complexes to understand how the genetic code is set in all organisms. The study uses molecular dynamics simulations and visualization software to analyze the optimal communication pathways, revealing modules and local communities ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Biofuels could hasten climate change

A new study reveals that biofuels could hasten climate change due to the destruction of tropical rainforests. The study found that it will take over 75 years for carbon emissions saved through biofuel use to compensate for the carbon lost when these forests are converted into plantations.

SourceWiley·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 14, 2009

Study reveals we seek new targets during visual search, not during other visual behaviors

A study by Michael D. Dodd and colleagues found that inhibition of return occurs during visual search tasks, but not during other visual behaviors. Volunteers were tracked while viewing scenes to identify eye movements, revealing a 'facilitation of return' effect where previously fixated locations are shifted faster than new ones.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Eat, drink and be merry?

Research finds that fast food and soft drinks contribute to childhood obesity, but paradoxically also reduce unhappiness. The study highlights the need for policies and programs that balance children's physical health with their emotional well-being.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateApr 14, 2009

'Natural' nitrogen-fixing bacteria protect soybeans from aphids

Researchers found that soybean plants colonized with naturally occurring rhizobia had lower aphid densities than those with commercial or artificially fertilized plants. The plants produced the same level of nitrogen regardless of the type of rhizobia used, suggesting a potential tool for protecting plants from insect herbivory.

SourcePenn State·JournalPlant and Soil·DateApr 14, 2009

Surgical gel used to stop bleeding could confuse mammograms

Researchers from Loyola University Health System warn that the surgical gel FloSeal may cause microcalcifications on mammograms after breast cancer surgery. The study highlights the need for caution when using FloSeal in lumpectomies to avoid misdiagnosis.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateApr 14, 2009

Farmers relying on roundup lose some of its benefit

A new study reveals that farmers' overreliance on Roundup Ready crops and glyphosate-based herbicides is leading to the development of resistant weeds. Rotating crops and using different herbicides can slow down this process, extending the life of the technology.

SourcePurdue University·JournalWeed Technology·DateApr 14, 2009

Where you live may affect your state of mind

A new study found that Frequent Mental Distress (FMD) prevalence varies significantly across the US, with high rates in Appalachian and Mississippi Valley regions and low rates in the upper Midwest. FMD prevalence increased by at least 1 percentage point in 27 states over two periods.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 14, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Home tooth bleaching slightly reduces enamel strength

A new study from Ohio State University found that home tooth bleaching products reduce enamel hardness by 1.2-2 nanometers, affecting its ability to bounce back after force. Researchers suggest reformulating products to minimize side effects.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Dentistry·DateApr 14, 2009

Climate change makes migrations longer for birds

A study published in the Journal of Biogeography found that climate change may lead to longer bird migrations, with some species facing journeys of up to 250 miles longer. This could have significant consequences for birds' survival and ability to adapt.

SourceDurham University·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateApr 14, 2009

Discovery of variations in resistance to sulfadoxine across Africa

Researchers have discovered different resistance mutations in east and west Africa, suggesting varying effectiveness of sulfadoxine as an antimalarial drug. Coordinating malaria control efforts across socioeconomically linked areas may be more effective in reducing the malaria burden across the continent.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 14, 2009

Treating HIV earlier to decrease the risk of death

A new North American study shows that starting antiretroviral treatment earlier significantly decreases the risk of death, with a reduction of up to 94% in patients who begin treatment before their CD4+ cell count falls below 500. This finding challenges traditional guidelines and may lead to changes in medical practice.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 14, 2009
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.

Toward rational, transparent K-12 funding

A new tool has been developed to quickly assess how a particular school finance reform proposal might impact individual California school districts. The tool can be used to evaluate any formula that consolidates categorical funds and will be discussed at the American Educational Research Association meeting in San Diego.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateApr 14, 2009

I feel like a different person

Researchers found that feeling good encourages individuals to explore values inconsistent with their cultural norms, while feeling bad reinforces traditional stereotypes. This suggests that emotions play a significant role in shaping our cultural identities.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 14, 2009