Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 21, 2009


Assuring quality in lightweight construction

Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute create testing systems using shearography and thermography to detect delaminations in composite materials. The combination of technologies improves quality control and eliminates processing steps.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateOct 21, 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.

Maternal smoking may increase newborns' discomfort

A new study suggests that maternal smoking during pregnancy may increase newborns' distress levels, potentially related to reduced monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) activity. This reduction in MAO-A activity can lead to dysregulation of brain neurotransmission, creating a potential vulnerability to behavioral disorders later in life.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 21, 2009

Why sex with a partner is better

A study by University of Oregon researchers found that nematode worms with partners were more resistant to genetic mutations and better adapted to changing environments. This suggests that having a mate provides an evolutionary advantage over self-fertilization, leading to longer lives for offspring.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2009

Light at night linked to symptoms of depression in mice

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that mice housed in a lighted room for 24 hours a day exhibited more depressive symptoms than those with normal light-dark cycles. However, mice that lived in constant light but could escape showed less evidence of depressive symptoms.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBehavioural Brain Research·DateOct 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.

Lower-dose dexamethasone can be used to treat newly diagnosed myeloma

A recent study found that lenalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone is associated with better short-term overall survival and lower toxicity than traditional high-dose therapy in newly diagnosed myeloma patients. The treatment regimen shows acceptable toxicity and low early mortality, making it a viable option for these patients.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 21, 2009

Tips from the American Journal of Pathology

Research from the American Journal of Pathology reveals that glycosaminoglycans contribute to skeletal abnormalities in patients with lysosomal storage diseases. Additionally, αvβ3-integrin expression improves ovarian cancer patient prognosis, while CpG DNA may be a therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease treatment.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 21, 2009

School children could lead the way on sustainability

Children can play a key role in driving sustainability initiatives by encouraging changes in behavior and taking on wider roles as active citizens. Schools need to adopt different learning approaches that activate creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to harness their potential.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateOct 21, 2009

Feelings of stigmatization may discourage HIV patients from proper care

A UCLA study found that HIV stigma is a strong predictor of poor access to medical care and suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Individuals experiencing high levels of internalized stigma were more likely to report poor access to care and lower medication adherence.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 21, 2009

Extremists more willing to share their opinions, study finds

A study found that people with extreme opinions are more likely to express themselves when they believe they represent the majority, but not all extremists exhibit this behavior. The research has implications for how Americans view political opinions in their communities and parties.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateOct 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.

Geologist analyzes earliest shell-covered fossil animals

Researchers have discovered a new species of shell-covered animal from the Early Cambrian epoch, dating back around 520 million years. The fossils indicate that these early animals were larger than previously thought and provide valuable information on their evolution and relationships to other species.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateOct 21, 2009

Classifying molar pregnancy

Classifying molar pregnancy is crucial for clinical treatment due to increased risk of persistent gestational trophoblastic disease. Researchers used STR genotyping and p57 immunohistochemistry to differentiate complete hydatidiform moles from partial moles and non-molar specimens.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 21, 2009

Hearing on the wing: New structure discovered in butterfly ears

Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered a unique structure in the ear of the Blue Morpho butterfly, which may allow it to distinguish between high and low pitch sounds. The membrane's properties suggest that butterflies can hear lower pitches more sensitively than other insects.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 21, 2009

Women outperform men when identifying emotions

Researchers at the University of Montreal found that women are better than men at distinguishing between emotions, particularly fear and disgust. Women processed facial and multisensory expressions faster than men.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateOct 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.

Phytochemicals in plant-based foods could help battle obesity, disease

A University of Florida study found that eating more plant-based foods can prevent oxidative stress associated with obesity and disease. By incorporating colorful, low-calorie foods like leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables into meals, individuals may be able to control caloric intake and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics·DateOct 21, 2009

Alcohol tolerance 'switch' found

Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered a genetic 'switch' in fruit flies that contributes to increased alcohol tolerance. This switch also has implications for the development of fatty liver syndrome and cirrhosis in humans, with certain gene variations linked to excessive drinking behavior.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGenetics·DateOct 21, 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.

Physicians have less respect for obese patients, study suggests

A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers suggests that physicians have less respect for obese patients, with higher BMI associated with lower levels of respect. The findings raise questions about whether physician attitudes towards obesity impact patient care and health outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 21, 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.

Important new rheumatology resource unveiled

A comprehensive collection of 38 articles written by international experts provides a detailed overview of current rheumatology research. The resource covers basic, translational, and clinical research in rheumatology, offering clinicians and researchers a valuable reference work.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateOct 21, 2009

Stimulus projects designed to heal, prevent and restore

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing new imaging agents to detect cancers earlier, exploiting enzyme overexpression in tumors to improve cancer surgery accuracy, and creating a system to control prosthetic arms with thought. The grants will support new researchers, equipment, and technology development.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateOct 21, 2009

Researchers to study hidden lakes beneath west Antarctic ice sheet

A new research project will drill through a half-mile of ice to penetrate subglacial Lake Whillans, studying hidden processes that govern the dynamics of the West Antarctic ice sheet. The team aims to develop predictive models of polar melting and understand how subglacial lakes influence ice motion.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateOct 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.

Harvard scientists bend nanowires into 2-D and 3-D structures

Scientists at Harvard University have introduced kinks into arrow-straight nanowires, creating zigzagging 2-D and 3-D structures with enhanced electrical properties. These new nanostructures enable the integration of active devices, fostering potential breakthroughs in biomedicine and electronics.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 21, 2009

High tech for bicycles

Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed a functionally-integrated bicycle seat post made from carbon fiber composite materials, offering noticeable ride comfort and reduced weight. The innovative seat post uses laminated springs to absorb shocks, providing a smoother ride for cyclists.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateOct 21, 2009

Designer molecule detects tiny amounts of cyanide, then glows

Researchers have developed a novel detector molecule that can sense cyanide in water at normal pH levels and emit light, offering a potential solution for protecting people from cyanide-laced drinking water. The molecule's modular structure allows it to be modified to enhance its sensitivity and detect different toxins.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 21, 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.

Trigger of deadly food toxin discovered

UCI scientists identify protein PT as the key to making aflatoxin, a toxin produced by mold on nuts and grains that can cause liver cancer. The discovery could lead to methods of limiting its production and developing new inhibitors to prevent liver cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2009

Study conclusively ties rare disease gene to Parkinson's

A new study found that carriers of Gaucher disease face a significantly higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease, with the risk being 5 times greater than the general public. The study also found that GBA alterations increase the likelihood of early disease onset.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 21, 2009

Costs of plug-in cars key to broad consumer acceptance

A University of Michigan survey found that the cost of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) is a significant predictor of purchase probabilities, even more so than environmental considerations. Economic factors, such as willingness to pay for fuel savings and price premiums, played a crucial role in consumer attitudes towards PHEVs.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateOct 21, 2009

Glacial melting may release pollutants in the environment

A new study finds that glacial melting is releasing persistent organic pollutants into lakes, despite decreased use of these compounds in products. The pollutants were deposited earlier and preserved over decades, with the flow increasing sharply since the late 1990s.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 21, 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.

Women veterans less likely to report pain than male counterparts

A recent study published in Pain Medicine found that women veterans are less likely to report pain compared to their male counterparts. The study, which analyzed data from over 153,000 veterans, revealed that female veterans were more likely to report moderate-severe pain but less likely to experience persistent pain.

SourceWiley·JournalPain Medicine·DateOct 21, 2009

Standards for a new genomic era

Geneticists propose six labels for genome sequence data to estimate quality, ranging from standard draft to finished sequence. This could aid in developing vaccines more efficiently and responding to emergencies.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateOct 21, 2009

The first men and women from the Canary Islands were Berbers

Researchers analyzed Y chromosome DNA from human remains on the Canary Islands to determine the origin and evolution of paternal lineages. They found a North African origin for these lineages, which declined due to European colonization and the African slave trade.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateOct 21, 2009

Tailoring physical therapy can restore more functions after neurological injury

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center found that a tailored approach to physical therapy can restore a wider variety of functions in rats with spinal cord injuries. After four weeks of training on a robotic device, trained animals had shorter stride lengths and improved walking performance compared to non-trained animals.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateOct 21, 2009
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Carnegie Mellon expands mobile learning project in India

The Carnegie Mellon Mobile & Immersive Learning for Literacy in Emerging Economies (MILLEE) project will conduct a controlled study involving 800 children in 40 villages in Andhra Pradesh, India. The goal is to gauge the effectiveness of mobile phone-based games for teaching English lessons.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateOct 21, 2009

Pushing through brain barriers

A Case Western Reserve University engineering professor is developing a miniaturized low-power device to detect how electrical signals and neurotransmitters in the brain work. The device will record 16 channels of chemical and electrical neural activity, measuring neurotransmitters and action potentials in real time.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateOct 21, 2009

Pitt/NIH team find way to protect healthy cells from radiation damage

A team of researchers has identified a biochemical signaling pathway that protects normal tissues from radiation damage. Blocking this pathway increases tumor death in mouse experiments, offering hope for new cancer therapies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 21, 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.

Damaging inflammatory response could hinder spinal cord repair

A new study suggests that a damaging inflammatory response following spinal cord injury can prevent healing and promote chronic pain. Anti-inflammatory macrophages, which are typically involved in later stages of injury repair, were found to promote effective growth of axons but disappear shortly after an injury.

SourceOhio State University·DateOct 21, 2009

Single-stranded DNA-binding protein is dynamic, critical to DNA repair

A new study reveals that a single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB) moves back and forth along single-stranded DNA, gradually allowing other proteins to repair, recombine or replicate the strands. SSB's dynamic movement is independent of the DNA sequence and modulates the activity of critical DNA repair proteins.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2009

Lifestyle changes remain important in fighting peripheral arterial disease

Researchers found that modifying risk factors through healthy lifestyle changes remains vital to combating peripheral arterial disease. While some patients with blocked leg arteries may not exhibit symptoms, early detection and treatment are still essential to prevent progression and potential complications.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateOct 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.

A scientific basis the 'golden rule' of pairing wines and foods

Researchers found that iron naturally occurring in red wine causes the unpleasant fishy aftertaste when paired with fish. Low-iron red wines might be a suitable match for seafood, contrary to the traditional rule of thumb.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateOct 21, 2009

Infant sucking habits may affect how baby talks

A recent study published in BMC Pediatrics found that persistent sucking habits in infants, such as pacifier or bottle use, may lead to difficulty producing certain word sounds and simplifying pronunciation in preschool children. Delaying introduction of baby bottles until at least 9 months old can reduce the risk of speech disorders.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBMC Pediatrics·DateOct 21, 2009

Childhood risk factors for developing substance dependence

Researchers have identified childhood risk factors for developing substance use disorders, including increased body sway and reduced P300 amplitude. These early markers can help predict an individual's likelihood of developing a substance use disorder by young adulthood.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 21, 2009

Sexual problems rarely addressed by internists caring for cancer survivors

Cancer survivors often struggle with sexual dysfunction due to side effects from treatment. Internists rarely discuss these issues with patients, leaving them without proper care and support. Training is needed to prepare primary care physicians to address these concerns effectively.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 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.

The bowels of infection

Researchers found that latent CMV infection exacerbated intestinal inflammation and increased immune responses to normally harmless bacteria, contributing to IBD severity. Latent CMV infection may modulate mucosal immunity and predispose individuals to developing severe acute colitis and subsequently IBD.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 21, 2009

Study shows how normal cells influence tumor growth

A new study published in Nature reveals that the loss of a gene called PTEN from surrounding cells can dramatically alter the tumor environment, fostering tumor growth. The findings suggest a new role for PTEN in suppressing cancer development and could lead to entirely new treatments targeting both cancer cells and their surroundings.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2009

Time-keeping brain neurons discovered

Researchers have identified groups of neurons that precisely keep time in the primate brain, allowing for fine-scale control over actions. The discovery opens doors to investigations into how the brain produces and uses its natural time code.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2009

US and Europe different in aldosterone antagonists use in heart failure

A study found that only one-third of US patients meeting guidelines criteria were treated with aldosterone antagonists, compared to 48% in the Euro Heart Failure survey. European clinicians have greater leeway and often push new indications in their practice, leading to a more liberal approach.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalJAMA·DateOct 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.

Spider web glue spins society toward new biobased adhesives

Researchers have identified two new glycoproteins in spider web glue, which can be produced through opposite strands of the same DNA sequence. This discovery paves the way for large-scale production of biobased glues for various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateOct 21, 2009

Fetal study highlights impact of stress on male fertility

A study suggests that exposure to a combination of stress hormones and chemicals during fetal development can increase the likelihood of reproductive birth defects, including cryptorchidism and hypospadias. The research found that simultaneous exposure to these factors significantly increased the risk of such disorders.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalEndocrinology·DateOct 21, 2009

Georgia Tech wins NSF award for next-gen supercomputing

Georgia Institute of Technology receives a five-year, $12 million Track 2 award to develop and deploy two heterogeneous HPC systems for various research projects. The project aims to demonstrate unprecedented performance on computational science applications while addressing energy efficiency challenges.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateOct 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.

The Per Brinck Oikos Award 2010

Professor Hanna Kokko has been awarded the Per Brinck Oikos Award 2010 for her groundbreaking research on ecological and evolutionary dynamics. Her work focuses on the interactions between individual behavior, life-history theory, and population dynamics, with applications to conservation and management problems.

SourceWiley·DateOct 21, 2009

Amphetamine use in adolescence may impair adult working memory

Researchers at the University of Illinois found that rats exposed to high doses of amphetamines during adolescence displayed significant memory deficits as adults. The declines in short-term memory were most pronounced when exposure occurred during adolescence rather than adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateOct 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.

Study surprise yields new target for assessing genes linked to autism

Researchers discovered a new genetic signature that correlates strongly with autism and involves the way genes are turned on and off. The finding may suggest new approaches to diagnosis and treatment of autism, potentially identifying individuals who will respond better to oxytocin treatment.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 21, 2009

Internet fuels virtual subculture for sex trade, study finds

A study by Michigan State University found that internet forums are used to share information about prostitution and provide warnings to other 'johns', making it harder for law enforcement. The researchers also discovered that these online communities help individuals justify their behavior and view prostitutes as commodities.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Contemporary Ethnography·DateOct 21, 2009

Museums increasingly turn to scientists to preserve treasures

Scientists are increasingly involved in preserving cultural heritage objects, using non-destructive analysis and innovative techniques. Conservation science research is funded by grants from the National Science Foundation, aiming to maximize the preservation of building materials and artworks.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 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.

Alzheimer's lesions found in the retina

Researchers have discovered that Alzheimer's disease can cause changes in the retina, which may predict how well treatments will work. The findings could lead to the development of retinal imaging technology for earlier diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's, a leading cause of elderly dementia.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 21, 2009