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Science News for August 24, 2010


How to count the messenger out

Researchers have described the effects of messengers on infrared spectroscopy of protonated water clusters, allowing for better interpretation of spectroscopic data. The study reveals unexpected interactions between messenger molecules and cluster structures, enabling more accurate analysis of molecular vibrations.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 24, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pulverized planet dust might lie around double stars

A new study using Spitzer data reveals a large amount of dust around three mature double-star systems, possibly resulting from planetary collisions. The research suggests that tight double-star systems might not be suitable for life to thrive due to the increased likelihood of chaotic events.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 24, 2010

Researchers find gene responsible for neurodegenerative disease in dogs, possibly in humans

A team of researchers discovered a gene responsible for a rare and fatal disease in American Staffordshire terriers. The same gene is believed to cause a similar disease in humans. Genetic analysis led to the identification of an entirely new mutation, which can be tested in human samples to determine its connection to Kufs' disease.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2010

Geo-engineering and sea-level rise over the 21st century

International research suggests that sea levels will be 30-70 centimeters higher by 2100 even with geo-engineering efforts. However, large-scale actions like sulfur dioxide injections or mirror orbits pose significant challenges. Bioenergy with carbon storage (BECS) appears to be a more desirable option.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2010

Can the world be powered mainly by solar and wind energy?

Walter Kohn predicts a new era in human history where solar and wind power dominate global energy, driven by growing alternative energy production and declining oil and gas reserves. International cooperation is crucial to addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing energy landscape.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Lipid peroxides -- more sophisticated than their reputation

A joint study by Helmholtz Zentrum München and Karolinska Institutet reveals that lipid peroxides temporarily inactivate protein tyrosine phosphatases, regulating cellular communication. This finding is crucial as aberrant activation of receptor tyrosine kinases contributes to various diseases, including cancer.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2010

2 UH chemists receive national recognition

University of Houston chemists Rigoberto Advincula and Mamie Moy received ACS Fellowships, recognizing their outstanding contributions to science and the chemistry profession. Their research focuses on polymer and nanomaterials, with potential applications in chemical sensors, energy transfer, and more.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 24, 2010

Antiviral gene helps suppress jumping of AIDS viruses between host species

A new study has found that the antiviral gene TRIM5 plays a crucial role in suppressing the transmission of primate immunodeficiency viruses, including HIV-1 and HIV-2. The researchers used rhesus macaques with different versions of the TRIM5 gene to demonstrate its ability to block cross-species transmission of SIVs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2010

Researchers zero in on protein that destroys HIV

Scientists have identified six critical amino acids in the TRIM5α protein that enable it to destroy HIV. Altering these amino acids in human cells renders TRIM5α ineffective against HIV-1 infection, highlighting a potential target for therapy development.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalVirology·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Double-therapy approach effectively inhibited brain cancer recurrence

A novel combination therapy of temozolomide and a Notch inhibitor has been shown to be highly effective in reducing tumor growth and recurrence in glioblastoma multiforme. This approach aims to target cancer stem cells, which are resistant to traditional therapies.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Mumps vaccine coverage should be improved, study finds

Although immunity to mumps is high in the US, maintaining and improving vaccine coverage is crucial to prevent future outbreaks. The study found that only about 90% of the population has sufficient antibodies, which may not be enough to stop transmission.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

IT can help CVD management

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that IT-based programs can support clinicians to close gaps in CVD care delivery, including risk assessment and patient self-management. The authors emphasize the need for a supportive social and political environment to fully realize the potential of these programs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 24, 2010

Atrazine causes prostate inflammation in male rats and delays puberty

A new study found that prenatal exposure to low doses of atrazine causes prostate inflammation and delays puberty in male rats. The incidence of prostate inflammation increased significantly with the strength of the doses, while puberty was also delayed in animals exposed to atrazine.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalReproductive Toxicology·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

NASA satellites see Tropical Storm Frank powering back up near Mexico

Tropical Storm Frank has strengthened with increasing convection and tightening thunderstorm bands. NASA's TRMM satellite revealed a deep eye wall and microwave data confirmed the storm's west-northwest trajectory. Heavy rainfall is expected over south-central Mexico, with potential flash floods and landslides.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 24, 2010

A moment on the lips, a year on the hips

A four-week episode of increased energy intake and decreased exercise caused significant weight gain, which was mostly lost within six months. However, the intervention group showed an increased fat mass compared to baseline after two and a half years, highlighting the long-term effects of short-term behavioral changes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateAug 24, 2010

Survey of American women finds STD vaccine viewed positively

The survey found that interest in receiving the HPV vaccine increased if it was available free of charge, but decreased as out-of-pocket costs rose. Convenience also played a role, with many women preferring to receive the vaccine at a doctor's office rather than a local pharmacy.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalSexual Health·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Salmon baby food? Babies need omega-3s and a taste for fish, scientist says

A University of Illinois professor has developed a nutritious salmon baby food for toddlers, citing the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for brain development and preventing coronary artery disease. The product's taste was found to be mild and appealing to parents, with an encouraging sensory panel response.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 24, 2010

New study shows how giant tortoises, alligators thrived in High Arctic 50 million years ago

A new study reveals that ancient alligators and giant tortoises lived on Ellesmere Island above the Arctic Circle despite six months of darkness, with average temperatures ranging from 66-68°F (19-20°C). The research provides insights into past and future biodiversity in the High Arctic as climate change impacts the region.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateAug 24, 2010

Why do consumer loyalty rewards programs need careful crafting?

A new study found that the magnitude of loyalty reward programs affects consumers' perceptions of their progress. Smaller step-sizes elicit strikingly different reactions, with those closer to the reward feeling they have made more progress.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Study shows deepwater oil plume in Gulf degraded by microbes

Researchers discovered a new species of bacteria degrading oil at an unprecedented rate without oxygen depletion. The study found that psychrophilic bacteria played a significant role in controlling deep-sea oil plumes, suggesting a potential for natural bioremediation.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 24, 2010

Cognitive behavior therapy improves symptom control in adult ADHD

A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improved symptom control in adult ADHD patients taking medication. The skills-based approach taught patients how to cope with attention problems and manage symptoms more effectively.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateAug 24, 2010

Whale sharks may produce many litters from 1 mating, paternity test shows

A study by University of Illinois Chicago biologist Jennifer Schmidt found that a female whale shark produced 304 embryos with the same father, suggesting she stores sperm after a single mating event. This finding could indicate that mating occurs as an isolated event rather than in breeding grounds.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Study suggests oxytocin makes people trusting, but not gullible

Researchers found that oxytocin increases trust in reliable partners but not in potentially unreliable ones. Volunteers who received oxytocin nasal spray were more generous with computer and reliable partners than those who received a placebo.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 24, 2010

Why making our own choices is more satisfying when pleasure is the goal

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that people are more satisfied with their experiences when they make personal choices, especially when the goal is pleasure. In contrast, when the goal is to achieve a higher-end consequence, there is no difference in satisfaction between those who choose and those who do not.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Engineering shorter wait times in the ER

Researchers used Six Sigma design strategy to improve ER triage process, reducing patient waiting time and length of stay. The approach sorted patients into treatment areas based on condition severity, not arrival time, resulting in significant reductions in wait times and stays.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage·DateAug 24, 2010

'Spintronics' breakthrough holds promise for next-generation computers

Researchers at the University of Kansas have discovered a new way to recognize currents of spinning electrons within a semiconductor, paving the way for superior computers and electronics. The innovation uses powerful lasers to detect spin-current in real-time, overcoming a major hurdle in spintronics research.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Scientists map origin of large, underwater hydrocarbon plume in Gulf

Researchers use advanced technologies to map the origin of a massive underwater hydrocarbon plume in the Gulf of Mexico, confirming it came from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The plume is 22 miles long and 3,000 feet deep, and its composition suggests it has been persisting for longer than expected.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateAug 24, 2010

Darwin's family tree rediscovered

A Galton-Darwin-Wedgwood pedigree has been found in the archives of Truman State University, revealing new insights into Charles Darwin's family life. The discovery, made by Professor Tim Berra, provides a unique window into the personal life of the famous scientist.

SourceWiley·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Clinical trial findings challenge clinical practice

A randomized controlled trial of 301 patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction found no difference in major cardiovascular complications between those with and without planned balloon pump support. However, the study highlighted the importance of having a balloon pump on standby for high-risk cases.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA·DateAug 24, 2010

UF study shows carnivore species shrank during global warming event

Researchers discovered a nearly complete jaw from the hyena-like animal, Palaeonictis wingi, which evolved to half its ancestors' size during a 200,000-year period of global warming. The study suggests other factors may have played a critical role in its evolution.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Mammalian Evolution·DateAug 24, 2010

Half-a-loaf method can improve magnetic memories

Chinese scientists have developed a new cell design that uses an electric field to flip magnetization, resulting in faster and more energy-efficient magnetic memories. The design offers great potential for data storage and logic gates with ultra-low power consumption.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Cognitive behavioral therapy appears beneficial for adults with ADHD

A study published in JAMA found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) improved ADHD symptoms in adults who received medication, with greater improvement and higher responder rates compared to relaxation support. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed positive and sustained effects on ADHD symptoms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 24, 2010

Smallest U-M logo demonstrates advanced display technology

A University of Michigan professor has developed a new type of color filter made of nano-thin sheets with precisely spaced gratings, trapping and transmitting light of specific colors. The filter acts as a polarizer simultaneously, eliminating the need for additional polarizer layers, making it simpler to manufacture.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2010

See amazing new sun images from NJIT's Big Bear Solar Observatory

The Big Bear Solar Observatory has achieved 'first light' using a deformable mirror, resulting in the most detailed visible light image of a sunspot ever captured. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the observatory's adaptive optics system, which will enable better studies of solar complex phenomena and space weather.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateAug 24, 2010

Secrets of scents: Designing the smells that sell household products

Fragrance designers like Michael Papas aim to create scents that evoke emotions and nostalgia, using complex blends of synthetic and natural substances. By tailoring their creations to specific products, they strive to connect with consumers on a deeper level, making fragrances an integral part of our daily experiences.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

L'Oreal Fellowship winner seeks to understand breast cancer

Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researcher Dr Marie-Liesse Asselin-Labat is unraveling the mysteries of breast stem cells, their development, and influence by oestrogen and steroids. Her groundbreaking studies aim to uncover how breast cancer progresses and why it sometimes returns.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateAug 24, 2010

Chronic drinking can disrupt circadian rhythms

A human study found an association between dysregulation of circadian clock genes and chronic drinking. Lower levels of mRNA in these genes were observed in alcohol-dependent patients, indicating disrupted circadian rhythm.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Atmospheric pressure plasma jet from a grounded electrode

Scientists have developed a novel method for creating atmospheric pressure plasma jets using grounded electrodes, which differ from conventional applications. This breakthrough increases operator safety and enables the creation of jets at lower voltages, opening up new possibilities for biomedical applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateAug 24, 2010

A case for exercising

Researchers found that exercising obese rodents showed restored signals of satiety in hypothalamic neurons, leading to decreased food intake. The study's findings suggest a new paradigm for physical activity and weight loss, reinforcing the importance of regular exercise.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

New study sheds light on painkilling system in brain

Researchers have found that boosting brain levels of 2-AG, a natural painkiller, soon leads to loss of its therapeutic effect due to receptor downregulation. This discovery has implications for drug development and basic science, suggesting that more modest elevations in 2-AG may produce sustained pain relief.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 24, 2010

Mama wears Prada: Ovulating women buy sexier clothing

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that ovulating women choose sexier fashion products when thinking about other attractive local women. This unconscious behavior is driven by a desire to outdo rivals and entice desirable mates.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Fat distribution plays a role in weight loss success in patients at risk of diabetes

A study using MRI and MR spectroscopy found that abdominal and liver fat are key predictors of successful weight loss in individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. After a lifestyle intervention, participants with lower baseline levels of these fats experienced greater reductions in body weight and improved insulin sensitivity.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Who are you calling 'hipster'? Consumers defy labels and stereotypes

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers can demythologize their consumption practices to distance themselves from unfavorable labels. Consumers who identify with products like indie goods find ways to retain their tastes without being labeled as hipsters.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Researchers study cinnamon extracts

A study by USDA researchers suggests that a water-soluble cinnamon extract can improve antioxidant variables and decrease fasting glucose levels in people with prediabetes. The extract showed significant improvements, with a correlation between antioxidant status and blood glucose reductions.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateAug 24, 2010

Alcohol dependence damages both episodic memory and awareness of memory

A new study found that individuals with alcohol dependence not only experience impaired episodic memory but also a distorted perception of their own cognitive abilities. This distortion leads to an overestimation of memory capacities and a failure to recognize actual memory deficits.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateAug 24, 2010

True causes for extinction of cave bear revealed

An international team of scientists has found that the decline of the cave bear started 50,000 years ago due to human expansion and competition for land. The study analyzed mitochondrial DNA sequences from 17 new fossil samples and compared them with modern brown bears.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 24, 2010
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

No laughing matter: Laughter can play key role in group dynamics

A study from North Carolina State University found that laughter can be used strategically to control communication and affect group dynamics in serious settings. Laughter was used by jurors to release tension and acknowledge errors, facilitating the decision-making process.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSmall Group Research·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Did ancient coffee houses lay the groundwork for modern consumerism?

Early modern Ottoman coffeehouses offered patrons a space for transgressive pleasures, challenging state and religious authority. The establishments fostered the formation of a new consumer subject, resisting state prescriptions and constructing self-ethics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Moderate drinking: Health benefits or not?

A new study confirms an association between moderate drinking and reduced mortality among older adults, but notes that the health benefits are complicated by underlying risks such as prior problem drinking and socioeconomic status. The study followed 1,824 older adults for 20 years and found that controlling for confounding factors sub...

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateAug 24, 2010

New nuclear breast imaging technologies associated with higher cancer risks

Two newer breast imaging technologies, BSGI and PEM, have been approved for clinical use despite higher cancer risks. The lifetime risk of radiation-induced cancer from BSGI and PEM exams are significantly higher than digital mammography, with estimated risks ranging from 20 to 30 times higher.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Will cardiovascular disease prevention widen health inequalities?

A review of population strategies for preventing cardiovascular disease concludes that screening and treating high-risk individuals may be ineffective in reducing health disparities. Instead, policy interventions to limit risk-factor exposure across populations appear cheaper and more effective.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 24, 2010

Swimming upstream: Molecular approaches to better understand male infertility

Using yeast as a model organism, researchers at Penn identified novel histone modifications key to gamete formation and potential biomarkers of human male infertility. The study reveals the importance of epigenetic processes in sperm formation, which may lead to fertility problems.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Study compares risk with 2 diabetes drugs

A new study published by the American Heart Association compares the risks of diabetes drugs rosiglitazone and pioglitazone, finding that patients taking either medication have a similar risk of heart attack, heart failure, or death. The study included over 36,000 patients and followed them for 33 months.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 24, 2010