Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 21, 2009


Remembrance of things past influences how female field crickets select mates

Research by UC Riverside biologists reveals that female field crickets learn to recognize attractive male characteristics through song, influencing their mate selection. This finding underscores the importance of social effects in models of evolution, suggesting that insects possess complex cognitive capacities.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalBiology Letters·DateApr 21, 2009

UT Southwestern researchers probe kidney damage, protection in lupus

UT Southwestern researchers have discovered a link between immune cell malfunction and kidney damage in lupus patients. They also found that certain genes, such as kallikreins, appear to protect the kidneys from immune attack, suggesting potential new treatments for the disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateApr 21, 2009

Our penchant for rarity could threaten conservation efforts

A study published in PLOS ONE found that people are more attracted to rare species, leading to longer download times and increased attempts to access them. This perceived value of rarity poses a threat to conservation efforts, particularly in the context of ecotourism and exotic pet trade.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 21, 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.

Plants could override climate change effects on wildfires

A new study found that changes in vegetation can override climate change effects on wildfire frequency. Plant types and abundance play a significant role in determining an ecosystem's flammability. In some cases, vegetation changes were more influential than climate shifts, leading to fewer fires.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Monographs·DateApr 21, 2009

What's protected, what's not?

The Protected Areas Database – United States (PAD-US) is a national inventory of protected lands in the US. The database contains information on over 22,000 highly protected areas, covering 15% of the country's land area.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateApr 21, 2009
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.

Study suggests transfer of poor health from mother to child in India

A Harvard study found an association between a mother's height and her child's risk of death, being underweight, and having anemia. Children born to mothers shorter than 4 foot 9 inches were 70% more likely to die than those whose mothers were at least 5 foot 3 inches tall.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·DateApr 21, 2009

Ability grouping in elementary school hampers minority students' literacy

A new study by University of Illinois professor Christy Lleras found that ability grouping in elementary school impairs the literacy of lower-grouped minority students, while having little effect on higher-grouped minority students. The practice creates larger achievement gaps among minority students and exacerbates inequality.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·DateApr 21, 2009

Increasing Antarctic sea ice extent linked to the ozone hole

Researchers from British Antarctic Survey and NASA found that the ozone hole has strengthened surface winds around Antarctica, leading to greater flow of cold air over the Ross Sea. This resulted in a small increase in sea ice extent in West Antarctica, contrary to the expected effects of greenhouse gas increases.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 21, 2009

Emotional health affects exercise patterns in breast cancer patients

A study of 227 breast cancer patients found that those with greater depressive symptoms and lower emotional quality of life were less likely to exercise as part of their recovery. Despite initial increases, physical activity declined over time, suggesting the need for future interventions to support long-term engagement.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateApr 21, 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.

ACP releases new resource to help patients managing high blood pressure

The American College of Physicians has released a guidebook and DVD to assist patients in managing high blood pressure, a condition that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. The resource provides information on causes, risk factors, and lifestyle changes to control hypertension.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·DateApr 21, 2009

Natural protein may halt colorectal cancer's spread

Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin discovered that CXCL12 can prevent colorectal cancer cells from adhering to underlying proteins, leading to programmed cell death. The study suggests a potential mechanism for slowing cancer spread and improving patient prognosis.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·DateApr 21, 2009

New 167-processor chip is super-fast, ultra energy-efficient

The AsAP chip, designed by the University of California - Davis team, offers breakthrough speeds with low power consumption. It can perform half a trillion operations per second at slower speeds than common digital signal processing chips.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalIEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits·DateApr 21, 2009

EPA's P3 award winners celebrate a green future

The EPA P3 award winners are recognized for their sustainable designs, including integrated aquaculture systems and solar thermal combined cycles. These projects demonstrate the potential for economic growth and environmental sustainability to coexist.

SourceU.S. Environmental Protection Agency·DateApr 21, 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.

Lip-reading computers can detect different languages

Scientists at the University of East Anglia have created lip-reading computers that can accurately identify different languages spoken by individuals. The technology uses statistical modelling of lip motions and was tested on a group of bilingual and trilingual speakers, achieving high accuracy rates across multiple languages.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·DateApr 21, 2009

Ultrasound imaging now possible with a smartphone

Researchers have successfully coupled USB-based ultrasound probe technology with smartphones, enabling compact, mobile medical imaging devices. This innovation has far-reaching implications for global healthcare, particularly in developing countries where access to medical imaging is limited.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateApr 21, 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.

New treatment shows promise against recurrent gynecologic cancers

A new combination of chemotherapy drugs, topotecan and docetaxel, has produced clinical benefit for patients with recurrent gynecologic cancers. The treatment showed an unusually high proportion of women experiencing clinical benefit, with a median survival time of 18.5 months.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalGynecologic Oncology·DateApr 21, 2009

Dark hair? Don't burn? Your genes may still put you at risk for melanoma

Research identifies genetic variants in MC1R as associated with increased melanoma risk in people with dark hair. The study found that these variants were more common in those who did not typically burn easily from the sun, suggesting a complex relationship between genetics and melanoma risk.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 21, 2009

Translating the conversation between the brain and blood vessels

Researchers Francois Abboud and Ann M. Schreihofer have unraveled how the brain regulates blood pressure and flow through communication with blood vessels. Their work has led to clinical advances, including a pacemaker-like device to lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 21, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

World's brightest X-ray machine comes online at SLAC

The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) produces the world's brightest X-ray laser, allowing researchers to capture molecular details with unprecedented resolution. This technology has far-reaching implications for medicine, energy research, and other fields.

SourceStanford University·DateApr 21, 2009

Louse infestation calibrates immune system regulation

Researchers studied louse infestation's effect on immune activity in wild wood mice, finding reduced readiness to mount an immune response. This suggests a potential immunosuppressive effect of the parasite, supporting the idea that modern human populations have heightened immune responsiveness due to reduced exposure to parasites.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateApr 21, 2009

Mouse model provides a new tool for investigators of human developmental disorder

Scientists have created a mouse model of Wolf-Hirschorn Syndrome, a genetic disorder characterized by physical abnormalities and developmental delays. The model, which mimics the disease's effects on cardiac valves and facial structures, offers a valuable tool for researchers studying human development and disease.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateApr 21, 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.

LSUHSC student awarded top national honor for diabetes research

A LSUHSC student has developed a groundbreaking treatment for diabetes using ACE2 gene therapy, which improves pancreatic beta cell function and restores glucose stability in diabetic mice. The award recognizes the student's outstanding research contributions to the field of endocrinology and metabolism.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateApr 21, 2009

Too much or too little sleep increases risk of diabetes

Researchers at Université Laval found that people who sleep too much or not enough are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. Approximately 20% of those with long and short sleep duration developed type 2 diabetes, compared to only 7% among average sleepers.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalSleep Medicine·DateApr 21, 2009
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.

Walnuts may prevent breast cancer

A study by Elaine Hardman found that walnut consumption can reduce breast tumor incidence in laboratory mice. Walnut consumption delayed tumors by at least three weeks, with molecular analysis showing increased omega-3 fatty acid intake contributing to the decline.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 21, 2009

Exercise protects against damage causing leakage in the blood-brain barrier

A study published at Experimental Biology 2009 found that regular exercise prevents the disruption of the blood-brain barrier caused by methamphetamine use. The study showed that exercising mice were protected from increased oxidative stress and permeability in the brain, while sedentary mice experienced damage.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 21, 2009

Witnessing violence affects kids' health

Exposure to community violence in school-aged children disrupts their normal cortisol production pattern, leading to physiological symptoms and potential long-term negative health effects. The study found a link between stress symptoms and cortisol levels, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to monitor these children's health.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Medicine·DateApr 21, 2009

New light on bipolar treatment drugs

Researchers at Cardiff University have identified a key molecule involved in Lithium's action on the brain. Increasing IMPase levels can lead to higher PIP3 production, which is reduced by Lithium treatment.

SourceCardiff University·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateApr 21, 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.

Predicting patient response to gleevec in gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center identified a genetic pattern that may predict how patients respond to imatinib mesylate, and found genes that could be suppressed to enhance therapy effectiveness. The study's findings suggest potential new strategies for improving treatment outcomes in gastrointestinal stromal tumor patients.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateApr 21, 2009

Premier issue of Ecopsychology launched by Mary Ann Liebert Inc. publishers

The inaugural issue of Ecopsychology, a new peer-reviewed online journal, chronicles the transdisciplinary endeavor of ecopsychology and its role in advancing psychological practice in an ecological context. The journal examines the link between human health, culture, and environmental issues.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEcopsychology·DateApr 21, 2009

Water levels dropping in some major rivers as global climate changes

A study by NCAR scientists found significant changes in about one-third of the world's largest rivers, with many experiencing decreased flow due to climate change. The reduced flows threaten future supplies of food and water, particularly for large populations relying on these rivers.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalJournal of Climate·DateApr 21, 2009
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.

Learning how the pieces responsible for interpreting the human genome work

Researchers are decoding the network of biological complexes that regulate development, focusing on key proteins involved in gene expression. The study aims to understand how these proteins cooperate to perform functions in healthy cells and compare this with disease states, particularly cancer.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·DateApr 21, 2009

Medicare recipients see declines in continuity of care

According to a UTMB study, Medicare patients experienced significant lapses in continuity of care between 1996 and 2006. The decline was attributed partly to the increased use of hospitalists, who specialize in hospitalized patient care. The researchers recommended further study on the impact of reduced continuity on patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJAMA·DateApr 21, 2009

Biofuel crops pose invasive pest risk

Researchers warn that unregulated biofuel crop planting poses a significant threat to Hawaii's environment due to their high invasiveness. The study identifies high-risk biofuel crops that could be grown with implemented measures to reduce their risk of spreading out of control.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 21, 2009

Saving the economy and saving the planet

Research highlights potential for green economy to stimulate employment and reduce carbon emissions during recession. Experts propose tax reform and low-carbon investment incentives to support sustainable growth.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateApr 21, 2009
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.

Representative Hinchey receives award for support of science

Representative Hinchey recognized for his strong support of a national research portfolio that invests in all sciences. He has been a long-time champion for the agricultural and biological sciences, recognizing their key role in addressing society's challenges.

SourceCrop Science Society of America·DateApr 21, 2009

Increasing levels of rare element found worldwide

Dartmouth researchers found a significant increase in rare element osmium worldwide, tracing it to platinum refinement and catalytic converters. The team measured osmium in precipitation, surface water, and deep water globally, with most of the findings linked to industrial processes.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 2009
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.

New study shows widespread and substantial declines in wildlife in Kenya's Masai Mara

A new study reveals widespread and substantial declines in wildlife populations in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve. The researchers found that a growing concentration of human settlements near the reserve is linked to large losses of wildlife, including giraffes, hartebeest, impala, and warthogs.

SourceBiosciences eastern and central Africa Hub (BecA-ILRI Hub)·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateApr 21, 2009

Polar pioneers of Earth and Mars receive American Geographical Society awards

The American Geographical Society (AGS) awarded national medals to polar explorers, including Matthew Henson, who accompanied Robert Peary on the 1909 expedition to the North Pole. Peter Smith, principal investigator of NASA's Phoenix Mars Mission, received an award for his work exploring Mars. Researchers also recognized for saving th...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 21, 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.

See salad, eat fries: When healthy menus backfire

Research at Duke University found that adding healthy options to menus can have the opposite effect, causing consumers with high self-control to make drastically worse choices. The study suggests that significant effort is needed from both food service providers and customers to promote healthy behaviors.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 21, 2009

Charred meat may increase risk of pancreatic cancer

Research suggests that well-done meats cooked at high temperatures using frying, grilling, or barbecuing methods can form carcinogens linked to pancreatic cancer. Studies found that those who preferred very well done steak had a 60% increased risk of developing the disease.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 21, 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.

Rifampin kinetics poor in children

A study published in BMC Medicine found that standard doses of Rifampin, a first-line antituberculosis drug, result in low serum concentrations in children. The researchers suggest increasing the dose to 10-20mg/kg may be more effective. This could lead to increased treatment duration and risk of relapse in severe forms of tuberculosis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateApr 21, 2009

Peregrine's PS-targeting antibodies highlighted in AACR Annual Meeting studies

Preclinical studies highlight PS-targeting antibodies' ability to reverse immune suppressing effects of tumors, change tumor microenvironment, and mobilize immune cells. These findings suggest that PS-targeting antibodies facilitate a cytokine shift in the tumor environment, encouraging multiple types of immune system cells to mount an...

SourceBioCom Partners·DateApr 21, 2009

Moms who breastfeed less likely to develop heart attacks or strokes

Postmenopausal women who breastfed for at least a month had lower rates of diabetes and high cholesterol. Longer durations of breastfeeding resulted in significant reductions in heart attack risk, with those nursing for over a year being 10% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 21, 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.

Sexual harassment from males prevents female bonding, says study

A recent study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that sexual harassment from males prevents female fish from forming social bonds with each other. The researchers discovered that male harassment not only breaks down female social structures but also affects females' ability to recognize one another.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateApr 21, 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.

Power steering for your hearing

A new study by University of Utah researchers reveals that tiny hair-like tubes atop hair cells in the ear act as flexoelectric motors to amplify sound mechanically. This discovery sheds light on how humans can hear very quiet sounds, and may also have implications for our sense of balance.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 21, 2009

Think memory worsens with age? Then yours probably will

A recent study by North Carolina State University researchers found that senior citizens' ability to remember suffers when negative stereotypes about aging and memory loss are activated. However, those who do not feel stigmatized exhibit significantly higher levels of memory performance.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalExperimental Aging Research·DateApr 21, 2009