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Science News for April 22, 2009


Self-healing concrete for safer, more durable infrastructure

A new material developed at the University of Michigan can heal itself when it cracks due to its designed narrow hairline cracks. The self-healing concrete recovered most of its original strength after being subjected to a 3% tensile strain, making it safer and more durable for infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateApr 22, 2009

A warm TV can drive away feelings of loneliness and rejection

Studies found that illusionary relationships with TV characters can give people real pleasure, reducing feelings of loneliness and rejection. The research suggests that technologies like TV shows and video games can fulfill human needs for belongingness.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateApr 22, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Americans ambivalent toward single-parent families

A new study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family reveals that Americans have an ambivalent attitude towards single-parent families. The research found that critical depictions of divorce decreased over time, reflecting an acceptance of divorce, but attitudes towards nonmarital childbearing remained largely negative.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateApr 22, 2009

Do good looks get high school students good grades?

A new study by University of Miami researchers found that physical attractiveness, personality, and grooming have a significant impact on high school grades. Grooming is the strongest predictor for boys, while personality is more important for girls.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalLabour Economics·DateApr 22, 2009

Plants absorb more carbon under hazy skies

Research finds that atmospheric pollution has enhanced global plant productivity by up to a quarter since 1960, leading to a 10% increase in carbon stored by the land. This unexpected effect occurs due to increased diffuse radiation reaching the Earth's surface under hazy conditions.

SourceNatural Environment Research Council·JournalNature·DateApr 22, 2009

Instead of fighting breast cancer, immune cell promotes its spread

Researchers found that lymphocytes, a type of immune system cell, produce the inflammatory protein RANKL when breast cancer cells are present. This leads to increased lung metastases. Blocking RANKL can halt cancer progression and may be a potential target for drug therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateApr 22, 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.

Why you may lose that loving feeling after tying the knot

A new Northwestern University study finds that relationship satisfaction after marriage depends on a partner's ability to fulfill responsibilities and commitments. The research reveals that dating couples prioritize partner support for personal growth, while married couples value it for maintaining their partnership. This insight could...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 22, 2009

Benefit of grapes may be more than skin deep

A University of Michigan study found that grapes lowered blood pressure and reduced signs of heart damage by altering cellular activity. The researchers suggest that the phytochemicals in grapes turned on protective genes that reduce damage to the heart muscle.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateApr 22, 2009

Early-bird commenters well-positioned to frame public policy

A new study finds that public commenters who participate early in the regulatory policymaking process can significantly influence the direction of regulatory proposals. These 'public' participants, often interest groups, can help shape the content of regulations and may thwart unwanted policies.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateApr 22, 2009

Alarming increase in drug-affected newborns

A new Australian study reveals a significant rise in neonatal withdrawal syndrome among newborns, with 906 cases diagnosed between 1980 and 2005. The research highlights the need for early identification and intervention to prevent abuse and neglect.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 22, 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.

LSUHSC public health researcher finds reason for weight gain

A study by LSUHSC public health researcher Liwei Chen found that reducing liquid calorie intake, especially from sugar-sweetened beverages, is significantly associated with weight loss. The study's findings suggest that policy recommendations and public health efforts to reduce liquid calorie intake can help combat obesity.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 22, 2009

Olympus advances technology for laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery

The Olympus platform enables surgeons to perform gallbladder removal, hernia repair, appendectomy, and urological or gynecological surgery through a single incision in the belly button. The TriPort access system and EndoEYE technology provide high-quality images and flexibility for minimal trauma.

SourceGolinHarris International·DateApr 22, 2009

Telescope upgrade turns data stream into a torrent

The Compact Array Broadband Backend (CABB) project has upgraded CSIRO's radio telescope near Narrabri in NSW, increasing its bandwidth from 128 MHz to 2 GHz. This upgrade enables astronomers to capture more data from the sky faster and detect cosmic objects more quickly.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateApr 22, 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.

Antibody gives cancer the recognition it deserves

Researchers have developed an engineered antibody called DTA-1 that helps the immune system overcome its natural reluctance to attack tumor cells. In a mouse model of melanoma, DTA-1 led to rejection of 50-60% of tumors by impairing regulatory T cells, providing new hope for improved cancer treatment options.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateApr 22, 2009

Genetics can mediate vulnerability to alcohol's effects during pregnancy

A mouse study found that genetics play a role in susceptibility and resistance to prenatal alcohol exposure, with some strains showing teratogenic effects while others resisted, suggesting genetic influence. The study also highlights the importance of considering genetic factors in human FASD research.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateApr 22, 2009

Diabetes, obesity and hypertension increase mortality in hepatitis C patients

A new study reveals that type 2 diabetes, obesity, and hypertension are associated with higher mortality rates in hepatitis C patients. The research found that metabolic syndrome components, such as diabetes and high BMI, were linked to increased overall and liver-related mortality in HCV-infected patients.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 22, 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.

California high school exit exam gets a failing grade in Stanford study

A Stanford study found that California's high school exit exam has failed to meet its primary goal of improving student achievement, particularly among low-achieving minority and girls students. The exam was not a fair assessment of their basic skill levels due to stereotype threat, which prevents them from performing well on the test.

SourceStanford University·DateApr 22, 2009

Eating fatty fish once a week reduces men's risk of heart failure

A study of 39,367 Swedish men found that eating fatty fish once a week reduced the risk of heart failure by 12%, while consuming more than three servings per week did not show a significant difference. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils were also linked to a 33% lower risk of heart failure.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 22, 2009

New hope for advances in treating malaria

Researchers at the University of Leeds have developed chemicals that kill the deadliest malaria-causing parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, and those resistant to existing drugs. These compounds work by preventing an enzyme essential to the parasite's growth, resulting in its death.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateApr 22, 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.

UBC research finds molecular 'key' to successful blood stem cell transplants

Researchers at UBC's Biomedical Research Centre have identified S1P as a molecule that can open the thymic gate for migrating stem cells. This discovery holds promise for increasing the success of blood stem cell transplants, which are currently used to treat diseases such as leukemia and aplastic anemia.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 22, 2009

New study shows chewing gum can lead to better academic performance in teenagers

A new study by Baylor College of Medicine found that students who chewed sugar-free gum showed an increase in standardized math test scores and final grades compared to those who didn't chew gum. Chewing gum was associated with a three percent increase in standardized math test scores, a small but statistically significant change.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·DateApr 22, 2009
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.

Prison punishes more people than just the inmates

A study by University of Michigan researchers found that people with a family member or friend in prison experience worse physical and mental health, stress, and depressive symptoms. This toll affects African Americans disproportionately due to higher rates of incarceration.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProgress in Community Health Partnerships Research Education and Action·DateApr 22, 2009

If it works in London's streets, it can work in our skies

Introducing congestion pricing at airports could reduce airport congestion and delays, saving airlines money. However, some airports with monopoly airlines may not benefit from this approach, and passengers may need to adjust their plans to arrive earlier.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateApr 22, 2009

Using combinatorial libraries to engineer genetic circuits advances synthetic biology

A team of Boston University researchers has developed a new method for engineering genetic circuits using combinatorial libraries and computer modeling. This approach enables the rapid construction of gene networks with predictable behaviors, accelerating synthetic biology research. The technique involves creating libraries of diverse ...

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 22, 2009

Plants could override climate change effects on wildfires

A new study led by Montana State University researcher Philip Higuera finds that changes in vegetation can either reduce or increase the risk of wildfires, even under climate change. The research suggests that considering vegetation's impact on fire regimes is crucial for predicting future wildfire patterns.

SourceMontana State University·JournalEcological Monographs·DateApr 22, 2009

Breaking the ties that bind: New hope for biomass fuels

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have discovered a potential weakness in the cell walls of certain plant materials, making them vulnerable to enzymatic attack. This insight could lead to an economical and viable process for producing biofuels from biomass.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateApr 22, 2009
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.

100 questions to conserve global biodiversity

A list of 100 key scientific questions has been published to aid conservation efforts. These questions, compiled by 761 conservationists and academics, aim to address gaps in knowledge on issues such as climate change and ecosystem function. Answering these questions could help stem massive biodiversity loss.

SourceNatural Environment Research Council·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 22, 2009

'Nature vs. nurture' study of deceased donor pairs in kidney transplantation

A new study found that donor-related risk factors, yet to be identified, contribute measurably to the success or failure of kidney transplants. The study examined pairs of recipients who received kidneys from the same deceased donor and found significant correlations between unmeasured risk factors and delayed graft function and kidney...

SourceRobert Wood Johnson Foundation Health & Society Scholars·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 22, 2009

Research team wins funds to unravel a DNA mystery

A research team led by Dr Keith Shearwin and Dr Ian Dodd from the University of Adelaide has been awarded a US$900,000 grant to investigate DNA looping. The study aims to understand how correct DNA loops are formed to control gene expression in cells.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateApr 22, 2009

Winners announced in the Elsevier Grand Challenge

The Elsevier Grand Challenge was won by two teams, Reflect and CORAAL, which developed innovative tools for managing online life sciences information. The winners were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges and received cash prizes of $35,000 and $15,000, respectively.

SourceElsevier·DateApr 22, 2009
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.

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.

Field Museum paleontologist leads study on two new dinosaurs from China

A new species of early T.rex relative, Xiongguanlong, and a giant ornithomimosaur, Beishanlong grandis, are described as part of a study on theropod dinosaurs from China. These discoveries provide insight into the evolution of tyrannosaurs, revealing that massive skulls evolved from animals with long, slender snouts.

SourceField Museum·DateApr 22, 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.

Olivier Voinnet awarded 2009 EMBO Gold Medal

Olivier Voinnet's groundbreaking research on gene silencing via RNA has opened new perspectives on controlling gene activity, with implications for medicine and genome integrity. His work has also shed light on the molecular arms race between hosts and parasites.

SourceEMBO·DateApr 22, 2009

Developmental drug helps protect against radiation damage

A developmental drug, JP4-039, has been shown to protect cells from radiation-induced cell death by assisting the mitochondria in combating irradiation. The study suggests a potential role for the drug as a mitigator of radiation damage.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 22, 2009

Majority of doctors skeptical of organ transplantation practices in China

A study by the University of California San Francisco found that US and foreign transplant physicians express serious concern about organ procurement in China, citing coercion of organ donors and substandard medical practices. The majority of doctors surveyed would not provide post-transplantation care to patients who underwent liver t...

SourceWiley·JournalClinical Transplantation·DateApr 22, 2009

The price of pain and the value of suffering

Researchers found that demand for pain relief is almost completely dependent on recent past pain experience and available cash. The study's results suggest that the value of pain relief is flexible and cannot be predicted by individual behavior, with significant economic implications.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 22, 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.

IUPUI study reports inherited impulsivity predicts alcoholism

A recent study by Indiana University researchers found that genetic predisposition to impulsivity is a trait predictive of alcoholism. The study used selective breeding to produce mice with high and low alcohol-preferred genes, which demonstrated that predisposition to impulsivity is predictive of alcoholism.

SourceIndiana University·DateApr 22, 2009

PDAs, more education help doctors follow cholesterol treatment guidelines

A new study suggests that patients with high cholesterol receive better care when physicians use a variety of tools, including PDAs, to learn and apply clinical practice guidelines for treating the condition. This multifaceted strategy improved guideline adherence by reducing over-treatment and increasing appropriate treatment decisions.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 22, 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.

Measuring snow with a bucket, a windmill and the sun?

The USGS has developed an energy-efficient system to measure snowfall in remote areas of Maine, using a bucket, small windmill, and solar panels. This innovative solution helps predict floods from spring snowmelt and saves lives by providing accurate information.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateApr 22, 2009

Researchers identify missing target for calcium signaling

A team of researchers has discovered a missing trigger for calcium signaling in cells, which controls muscle contraction, nerve-cell transmission, insulin release, and other essential functions. The study found that two-pore channels (TPCs) cause the release of calcium when stimulated by NAADP, and are located in lysosomes and endosomes.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNature·DateApr 22, 2009

Pain relievers ibuprofen and naproxen may delay -- not prevent -- Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that heavy NSAID use increased the risk of dementia by 66% among study participants. Despite initial findings suggesting a potential preventive effect, this new study indicates that NSAIDs only delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The study analyzed data from over 2,700 individuals and followed them for 12 years.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 22, 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.

Reef boom beats doom

Coral reefs in Australia's Great Barrier Reef Marine Park have recovered rapidly from a devastating bleaching event in 2006, thanks to an exceptional combination of ecological mechanisms. Asexual reproduction played a vital role in the recovery process.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 22, 2009

Science Chicago a world-class success

The Science Chicago program is raising awareness about the significance of science in everyday life, offering opportunities for people of all ages to learn and have fun with science. The initiative features various activities, including Science Works!, Science Saturdays, LabFests! and Jr. Science Cafes.

SourceScience Chicago·DateApr 22, 2009

Animals that seem identical may be completely different species

DNA analysis reveals two distinct species of worm that resemble each other in appearance, leading to a reevaluation of the Earth's biodiversity. The discovery could have significant consequences for laboratory testing and our understanding of environmental toxins.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateApr 22, 2009

Blood transfusions and outcomes

A comprehensive review of medical literature by experts found no evidence supporting beneficial effects from blood transfusions. Studies show associations with higher rates of complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure, highlighting the need for restricted practice and safer storage methods.

SourceHealthStar PR·DateApr 22, 2009

Scientists identify host factors critical to dengue virus infection

Researchers have identified 116 host factors essential for successful dengue infection in fruit flies, with at least one also necessary for mosquito infection. The study opens doors to new ways to prevent or treat the disease, which infects millions globally each year.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature·DateApr 22, 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.

Financial barriers to attending college affect academic goals in young students

Young students from low-income families who were told about need-based financial-aid opportunities performed better academically and planned more study time. However, this positive effect was limited for those with lower grades, highlighting the importance of early exposure to financial aid information.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 22, 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.

Continent-sized radio telescope takes close-ups of Fermi active galaxies

Astronomers have used the world's biggest radio telescope to study the brightest galaxies that NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope can see. The team found a correlation between active galaxies with the brightest gamma-ray emission and those with the fastest jets.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 22, 2009