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Science News for July 16, 2009


Knowing me, myself and I: What psychology can contribute to self-knowledge

The study of self-knowledge has expanded beyond determining internal states to include memory and predicting the future. Psychologist Timothy D. Wilson suggests that becoming an excellent observer of oneself and considering multiple perspectives can help individuals gain a better understanding of themselves.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateJul 16, 2009
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.

Doctors angry about BNP campaign tactics

A letter to The Lancet criticizes the British National Party's use of a white doctor in their election campaign, which could have influenced voters and damaged relationships with ethnic minority patients. The authors argue that doctors' neutrality should not be used to promote political parties.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 16, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Military model shows why defeating insurgent groups like Taliban is so difficult

A new study in Operations Research journal highlights the difficulty of defeating insurgent groups like the Taliban, citing the crucial role of timely and accurate military intelligence. The model shows that even good intelligence may only contain the insurgency, not defeat it, and that the government's best option is to achieve a cont...

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalOperations Research·DateJul 16, 2009

What are the characteristics of clarithromycin-resistant Helicobacter pylori?

Research on clarithromycin resistance in Helicobacter pylori isolates from Malaysian patients revealed low prevalence rates and specific mutations. The study found transitions of adenine to guanine at positions 2142 and 2143 of the 23S rRNA gene, detectable through restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 16, 2009

Nepean Dyspepsia Index applies to functional dyspepsia in China

The Nepean Dyspepsia Index has been successfully translated and validated in Chinese patients with functional dyspepsia. The study found that the Chinese version is a reliable scale for measuring health-related quality of life and disease severity, making it suitable for future clinical research.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 16, 2009

Preemies born in poverty 4 times less likely ready for school

A study by the University of Chicago Medical Center found that premature babies born in poverty are significantly less likely to be ready for school, despite advances in neonatal care. The researchers found that socioeconomic status was the most powerful factor determining school-readiness level.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 16, 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.

New science of learning offers preview of tomorrow's classroom

The new science of learning emphasizes computational, social, and brain-based approaches to understanding human learning. Key findings include the importance of machine learning, social interaction, and empathy in learning, which are now being applied to develop personalized teaching tools.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2009

Gene regulates immune cells' ability to harm the body

Researchers identified a gene that allows immune cells to start self-destructive processes underlying autoimmune diseases. The study found that the presence of the Batf gene enables T cells to produce inflammatory Th17 cells, which can lead to autoimmune conditions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateJul 16, 2009

NIH funds support UAB joint replacement research

Researchers at UAB will explore next-generation technology to improve the service life of total joint replacements, potentially reducing recurrent surgical procedures. The partnership with Smith and Nephew Inc. will provide access to state-of-the-art testing equipment and expertise.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateJul 16, 2009

Serum bile acid profiling for inflammatory bowel disease characterization

BA profiling in IBD patients showed decreased levels of certain BAs, while UC patients with liver and gallbladder diseases exhibited increased primary and secondary BAs. The study also found accelerated detoxification activity in IBD patients and a significant increase in primary and secondary BAs in UC patients with extraintestinal ma...

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 16, 2009

Children with FASD have more severe behavioral problems than children with ADHD

A study comparing children with FASD and ADHD reveals significant differences in social cognition and emotional processing. Children with FASD show a distinct profile of weaker social skills, including high distractibility and restlessness, which may underlie the severe conduct problems observed in these individuals.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateJul 16, 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.

Obesity raises risk of complications in pregnancy, study shows

Expectant mothers who are obese are nearly 10 times more likely to suffer from chest infections and more than twice as likely to experience headaches and heartburn compared to women of a healthy weight. Obese pregnant women also face increased risks of carpal tunnel syndrome, symphysis-pubis dysfunction, and higher treatment costs.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateJul 16, 2009

USC study finds links between obesity and adolescents' social networks

Overweight youth are twice as likely to have overweight friends, according to a USC study that found strong social connections contribute to obesity. Researchers also discovered that overweight girls tend to name more friends but be less popular among their peers.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 16, 2009

A potential targeting gene therapy for developing HCV

Researchers developed an ideal strategy for developing HCV-specific gene therapy by identifying the OAS promoter as a potential target. The study demonstrated that the HCV-core protein activates the OAS promoter specifically and effectively, paving the way for potential targeting of HCV using this approach.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 16, 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.

Solar cycle linked to global climate, drives events similar to El Nino, La Nina

New research by NCAR shows a key link between the solar cycle and global climate, with maximum solar activity impacting Earth similarly to La Nina and El Nino events. The study may pave the way toward better predictions of temperature and precipitation patterns.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJul 16, 2009

Less trouble at mill, thanks to earthworms

Using earthworms and animal manure, researchers have successfully converted textile mill sludge into a nutrient-rich compost. The composting process changes the physical and chemical properties of the material, making it suitable for plant growth.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environment and Pollution·DateJul 16, 2009

Edible coating makes fish filets longer-lasting, healthier

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed an edible coating that triples omega-3 fatty acids in fish, reducing lipid oxidation and preventing microorganism growth. The coating, enriched with fish oil, also maintains moisture levels and prevents color change.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFood Chemistry·DateJul 16, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Is a society with smokers profitable?

A recent study reviews economic arguments for tobacco control policies, finding that taxes can justify interventions due to market failures. However, the study concludes that a society with smokers is not necessarily economically ineffective, and that measures like taxes and restrictions on consumption may increase net welfare gains if...

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalRevista Española de Salud Pública·DateJul 16, 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.

Caltech, JPL scientists say that microbial mats built 3.4-billion-year-old stromatolites

Researchers from Caltech and JPL found evidence that ancient stromatolites were built with the help of equally ancient microorganisms, providing insight into the earliest record of life on Earth. The discovery may also provide a new avenue for exploration in the search for signs of life on Mars.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2009

Higher speed limits cost lives

A long-term study found that repealing the National Maximum Speed Law in 1995 resulted in approximately 12,500 deaths due to increased speed limits across the US. The study suggests that reduced speed limits and improved enforcement with speed camera networks could save lives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 16, 2009
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.

University of Guam scientist mite study

Dr. G. V. P. Reddy's research aims to eliminate toxic insecticides by introducing a predatory mite and applying biopesticides, improving eggplant farming in Guam. The study will inform growers of the risks associated with conventional methods and promote ecologically sound IPM practices.

SourceUniversity of Guam·DateJul 16, 2009

Genetic source of muscular dystrophy neutralized

Researchers found a synthetic molecule that breaks up deposits of toxic genetic material and re-establishes cellular activity disrupted by myotonic dystrophy. The treatment could restore muscle function in people with the disease.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2009

Baking soda: For cooking, cleaning and kidney health?

A daily dose of sodium bicarbonate slows the decline of kidney function in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease, reducing the rate of progression by about two-thirds. Patients taking baking soda also experience improvements in nutrition and are less likely to develop end-stage renal disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 16, 2009

Technology is key for biofuel success

A new study emphasizes the importance of technological advancements in the conversion of biomass to biofuels. By analyzing the US corn stover supply chain, researchers found that conventional technologies alone cannot achieve cost-performance goals, highlighting the need for improved equipment efficiency and new supply system designs.

SourceSpringer·JournalCellulose·DateJul 16, 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.

Quantum goes massive

Researchers have successfully cooled LIGO mirrors to near absolute zero, enabling the observation of quantum mechanical behavior at massive scales. This breakthrough suggests that interferometric gravitational wave detectors can also become sensitive probes of macroscopic quantum mechanics.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJul 16, 2009

New geothermal heat extraction process to deliver clean power generation

Scientists at PNNL have developed a new method for capturing more heat from low-temperature geothermal resources, enabling virtually pollution-free electrical energy generation. The approach uses biphasic fluid and nanostructured metal-organic heat carriers to boost power generation capacity.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJul 16, 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.

Our metallic reflection: Considering future human-android interactions

Psychologist Neal J. Roese and computer scientist Eyal Amir predict that by 2060, androids will be able to mimic human-like voices, facial expressions, and emotions, but still struggle with understanding natural language and forming conclusions from visual input.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateJul 16, 2009

Male sex chromosome losing genes by rapid evolution, study reveals

A study by Penn State scientists found that the Y chromosome has evolved rapidly, losing genes at a rate that could lead to its complete disappearance. The research revealed that this rapid evolution is due to the Y-specific DNA evolving independently from the non-sex chromosomes.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 16, 2009

11 leading national experts reach consensus on beneficial biofuels

Leading national experts have reached a consensus on beneficial biofuels produced from low-life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions and minimal competition with food production. The global biofuels industry must focus on five major sources of renewable biomass to balance biofuel production, food security, and emissions reduction.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2009

Data show ATryn effectively prevents serious blood clots

Data show ATryn safely prevents peri-operative and peri-partum acute deep vein thrombosis in patients with hereditary antithrombin deficiency. Dosing algorithms allow for normalization of antithrombin levels during high-risk situations, providing a safe treatment option.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·DateJul 16, 2009

LSUHSC post-doc awarded prestigious fellowship

Dr. Huijing Xia, a postdoc at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans, has been awarded the American Physiological Society's Postdoctoral Fellowship in Physiological Genomics for her research on ACE2, an enzyme that regulates blood pressure. The two-year fellowship will cover $37,000/year in stipend and trainee allowance.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateJul 16, 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.

Active video games a good alternative for kids

Researchers found that active video games can burn calories comparable to moderate-intensity walking, making them a safe and valuable means of promoting energy expenditure in children. The study, published in Pediatrics, suggests that substituting screen time with physically active games can help reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 16, 2009

Cost-effective strategy to screen second primary colorectal cancers in cancer survivors

A decision-analytic model suggests that more frequent and strict colonoscopy recommendations can be cost-effective strategies for screening second primary colorectal cancers in male cancer survivors. The most vulnerable population aged 40 years old may benefit from COL5, while the general population aged 50 years old may follow COL10.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 16, 2009

Solar cycle linked to global climate

Research by NSF-funded scientists reveals a scientifically feasible link between the 11-year solar cycle and ENSO, influencing climate variability globally. The study suggests that maximum solar activity can drive La Niña-like events with similar impacts on global temperature and precipitation patterns.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJul 16, 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 finds 'delinquent behavior among boys contagious'

A 20-year study found that impulsive boys with inadequate supervision and poor families are more likely to commit criminal acts. The study also revealed that the juvenile justice system's help increased the risk of early adulthood crime, especially among those with similar histories without judicial involvement.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJul 16, 2009

Multitasking ability can be improved through training

New research from Vanderbilt University found that training increases brain processing speed and enhances multitasking efficiency. Through daily practice, individuals showed improved performance on simple tasks when completed separately or together.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 16, 2009

New pheromone helps female flies tell suitors to 'buzz off'

Researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered a new pheromone in male fruit flies that repels females for at least a week. The compound, named CH503, was found to act as an anti-aphrodisiac, inhibiting courtship in males and explaining the long-lasting mating behaviors observed in fruit flies.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 16, 2009

Estrogen can reduce stroke damage by inactivating protein

Researchers found that estrogen suppresses p53 after stroke, preventing cell death and reducing damage. The study used female rats treated with estrogen versus placebo to induce global cerebral ischemia, a common type of ischemic stroke.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 16, 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.

'Motion picture' of past warming paves way for snapshots of future climate change

Researchers created a detailed 'motion picture' of Earth's last major warming event, allowing them to identify key drivers and potential consequences of abrupt climate changes. The study's results provide valuable insights into the complex interactions between ocean currents, atmospheric carbon dioxide, and subsurface heat.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2009

Research indicates ocean current shutdown may be gradual

Research suggests that major changes in ocean current systems can occur gradually, rather than suddenly, and may take place over centuries or even millennia. The study's findings confirm the accuracy of global climate models and provide valuable insights into how the Earth may respond to its current warming.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 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.

Targeting MMPs to halt advanced metastatic breast cancer

Two matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) proteins contribute to bone metastasis in advanced breast cancer by degrading extracellular matrix and stimulating osteoclast activity. This discovery supports therapeutic targeting of MMP1 and ADAMTS1, potentially mitigating bone complications in advanced metastatic breast cancers.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 16, 2009

1 disease, 2 effects: Stroke

Research highlights the gender disparities in stroke risks, with males outnumbering females by two to one, while women's outcomes worsen with age. Women also face disadvantages in stroke treatment, including lower response rates to tissue plasminogen activator.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateJul 16, 2009

Primate archaeology, proposal of a new research field

Researchers propose primate archaeology as a new field to study tool-use in humans and non-humans, integrating methods from both archaeology and primatology. This interdisciplinary approach aims to improve understanding of cognitive evolution and provide valuable data on human and non-human primate behavior.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature·DateJul 16, 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.

Enhancement of pancreatic cancer on dynamic CT: Does it correlate with angiogenesis and fibrosis?

The study found that tumors with strong angiogenesis showed high enhancement in the arterial dominant phase, while those with fibrosis had a negative correlation. Dynamic CT features related to angiogenesis can be modified by intratumoral fibrosis, which may impact treatment with anti-angiogenesis agents.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 16, 2009

Genes and the environment interact to influence adolescent alcohol use

A new study found that genetic predispositions can be expressed earlier in life through behavioral problems, while environmental influences can modify gene expression. Females may be more susceptible to certain environmental factors, which can encourage or inhibit the expression of genetic traits.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateJul 16, 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.