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Science News for December 8, 2010


New report: Don't blame the pill for estrogen in drinking water

Scientists analyzed studies on estrogen in drinking water and found most estrogens come from natural sources such as soy, dairy, and animal waste, not birth control pills. Researchers concluded that the pill accounts for less than 1% of estrogens in drinking water supplies.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 8, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Lost civilization under Persian Gulf?

Archaeologists propose that the Persian Gulf Oasis may have been home to humans for over 100,000 years, challenging current migration models. The region's fertile landscape and abundant resources would have supported early human settlements.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateDec 8, 2010

Reproductive scientists create mice from 2 fathers

Reproductive scientists have successfully created male and female mice from two fathers using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. This breakthrough could pave the way for preserving endangered species and improving livestock breeds, as well as advancing human assisted reproductive technology (ART).

SourceSociety for the Study of Reproduction·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateDec 8, 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.

Older survivors of mechanical ventilation can expect significant disability

Patients over 65 who survive hospitalization with mechanical ventilation are more likely to suffer from long-term disabilities compared to those without ventilation. Researchers found that these patients experience greater mobility difficulties and activities of daily living (ADL) disability, even when their pre-hospitalization disabil...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 8, 2010

Youth report favorable impressions of community street outreach workers

A study by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that youth generally perceive community street outreach workers positively, regardless of personal experience. The majority of respondents reported successfully resolving conflicts and needing help with employment, education, and healthcare needs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Community Health·DateDec 8, 2010

Yale scientists find molecular glue needed to wire the brain

Researchers identified SynCAM 1, a molecule that promotes synaptic connections and controls plasticity in the brain. The study found that too much of this molecule can be damaging, while mice with normal amounts of it have impaired learning ability.

SourceYale University·JournalNeuron·DateDec 8, 2010

Toddlers with autism show improved social skills following targeted intervention

A new study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health found that toddlers with autism who received a targeted intervention showed significant improvements in social and communication skills. The intervention, which focused on core social deficits, yielded sustained gains even in very young children.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateDec 8, 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.

The double-edged sword of dominance

Research finds that dominant animals in primate societies have higher parasite loads due to suppressed immune systems. Frequent aggression and contact with other animals may contribute to the risk of infection.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBioPsychoSocial Medicine·DateDec 8, 2010

fMRI special section of Perspectives on Psychological Science

This special section of Perspectives on Psychological Science explores the promises and issues facing neuroimaging, including its potential to reveal the anatomy of mental functions. Researchers discuss the need for more emphasis on cognitive processes and the importance of clear communication with the public.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateDec 8, 2010

Redrawing the map of Great Britain based on human interaction

A team of researchers has used a large database to create a new map of Great Britain, dividing the country into smaller regions based on human interactions. The analysis reveals unexpected patterns, such as a 'western crescent' centered on high-tech activities and Wales being well-integrated with its English neighbors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 8, 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.

Parents' influence on children's eating habits is limited

A new study found that parents have a limited impact on their children's eating habits, with complex factors like schools and peer influence playing a significant role. Researchers analyzed worldwide studies to conclude that correlations between parent-child dietary intakes have become weaker over time.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateDec 8, 2010

Unlocking the secrets of our compulsions

Researchers have shed light on dopamine's role in the brain's reward system, finding that individual differences in response to environmental cues can fundamentally influence chemical reward patterns. The study provides new insights into compulsive behavior and may lead to preventive tools or treatments for addiction.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2010
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.

Scientists map what factors influence the news agenda

A large-scale content-analysis of cross-linguistic text reveals national biases, cultural, economic and geographic links between countries influence the news agenda. Outlets from similar countries tend to cover similar stories, such as those related to trade or Eurovision.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 8, 2010

New mechanism links cellular stress and brain damage

A new study reveals that ER stress can lead to the destruction of a protein that regulates calcium signaling in neurons, causing brain damage similar to neurodegenerative diseases. The researchers found that a protective chaperone protein helps maintain the interaction between this protein and calcium signaling.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 8, 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.

Sinking organic materials produce carbon dioxide

Researchers found that porous marine particles settle in stratified layers, releasing carbon dioxide through diffusion, affecting global carbon fluxes. This discovery could improve estimates of ocean carbon exports.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2010

Theoretical breakthrough: Generating matter and antimatter from the vacuum

University of Michigan researchers have made a theoretical breakthrough in generating matter and antimatter from the vacuum under specific conditions. The new equations show how high-energy electron beams combined with intense laser pulses can create pairs of particles and antiparticles, generating additional particles and antiparticles.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 8, 2010

Planetary family portrait reveals another exoplanet

The discovery of the fourth giant planet in the HR 8799 system strengthens the resemblance between this exoplanetary system and our own, with all four planets being similar in size. Detailed study of HR 8799e will be challenging due to its relative faintness and proximity to its star.

SourceNational Research Council of Canada·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2010

What Zen meditators don't think about won't hurt them

A new study from the University of Montreal reveals that Zen meditators experience pain but don't dwell on it as much. The research suggests that meditators have a training-related ability to disengage certain brain processes, leading to lower pain sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPain·DateDec 8, 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.

Different origins discovered for medulloblastoma tumor subtypes

Researchers have identified distinct subtypes of medulloblastoma brain tumors originating from unique cells, leading to different treatment approaches. The study's findings support the development of targeted therapies and aid in searching for combinations of cells and mutations that may lead to other cancers.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2010

Shoo, fly! Catnip oil repels bloodsucking flies

Catnip oil has proven 99% effective in repelling stable flies that cause $2 billion in annual losses. The repellent action lasts for about three hours and is being improved upon.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 8, 2010

Rice physicists discover ultrasensitive microwave detector

Researchers at Rice University have developed a highly sensitive microwave detector using ultrapure gallium arsenide semiconductors. The discovery could enable the creation of next-generation computers with higher clock speeds, potentially reaching 100 GHz.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 8, 2010
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.

Lower levels of education are associated with increased risks of heart failure

A large European study found that better-educated men and women had nearly half the risk of hospital admission for heart failure than the least well educated. The study, led by Dr. Eva Prescott, also found a socioeconomic gradient in echocardiographic indicators of both systolic and diastolic dysfunction.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateDec 8, 2010

Changes in solar activity affect local climate

Researchers at Lund University found that high solar activity cools surface water temperatures in tropical Pacific regions during the early Holocene. This phenomenon may influence current climate patterns, such as low solar activity coinciding with cold winters.

SourceLund University·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2010

EULAR welcomes Council action to tackle chronic diseases

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) welcomes the EU Council's Conclusions on chronic diseases, which call for coordinated measures to address these conditions. EULAR highlights the importance of innovative approaches, patient-centred policies, and integrated healthcare systems to manage musculoskeletal diseases.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateDec 8, 2010

New pictures show fourth planet in giant version of our solar system

Astronomers have discovered a fourth giant planet in the HR8799 system, which is approximately seven times the mass of Jupiter. The system, consisting of four giant planets and two asteroid belts, is young compared to our solar system and may be on the verge of falling apart due to gravitational interactions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 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.

Whey supplements lower blood pressure

A Washington State University study found that whey-based protein supplements can significantly reduce elevated blood pressure, resulting in a more than six-point reduction in average blood pressure. The study's findings have practical implications for personal health and the dairy industry.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Dairy Journal·DateDec 8, 2010

ASU astronomer opens new window into early universe

Researchers detect signal from the Epoch of Reionization, a period 13 billion years ago when the universe was dark and hydrogen gas dominated. The discovery provides insights into how the first galaxies formed and evolved, shedding light on the early universe's history.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2010

Soaring is better than flapping

Researchers tracked the movement of European bee-eaters using tiny radio transmitters and found they both soar and flap their wings, saving energy. The birds use as little energy when soaring as when resting, contrary to previous studies with larger species.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 8, 2010

Carbon-rich planet: A girl's best friend?

A gas-giant planet orbiting a sun-like star has been found to be rich in carbon, with rocks potentially made of pure diamond or graphite. The discovery challenges conventional planetary chemistry and raises questions about the possibility of life on this extreme world.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2010

See off Alzheimer's with the color purple

A groundbreaking study by Professor Douglas Kell found that poorly-bound iron causes the production of hydroxyl radicals, leading to degenerative diseases. Purple fruits and green tea are identified as excellent sources of iron chelators, which can bind iron tightly.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalArchives of Toxicology·DateDec 8, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Study suggests cranberry juice not effective against urinary tract infections

A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that cranberry juice had no significant effect on reducing the recurrence of urinary tract infections. Among participants who suffered a second infection, those who drank cranberry juice showed a higher recurrence rate compared to those who received a placebo.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateDec 8, 2010

Astronomers detect first carbon-rich exoplanet

Researchers discovered a carbon-rich atmosphere in WASP-12b, suggesting rocky exoplanets could be composed of pure carbon rocks like diamond or graphite. This finding introduces an entirely new class of exotic exoplanets to explore, with implications for the possibility of life on these planets.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2010

UCSF team develops 'logic gates' to program bacteria as computers

A team of UCSF researchers has engineered E. coli with the key molecular circuitry that enables genetic engineers to program cells to communicate and perform computations. This system can be harnessed to turn cells into miniature computers, enabling intricate functions for various purposes such as agriculture and pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2010

Weightlifting slashes lymphedema risk after breast cancer treatment

A slowly progressive weightlifting regimen cut risk of developing lymphedema by 35 percent among breast cancer survivors. Women who had five or more lymph nodes removed during surgery saw a nearly 70 percent risk reduction, according to the study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateDec 8, 2010

Not-so-confidential confidantes

Researchers found that as few as three co-located images at different times and places can predict high probability of two people being socially connected. This study uses Flickr data to demonstrate the power of online data in revealing social ties, with implications for online privacy.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 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.

Scientists discover brain's inherent ability to focus learning

Researchers found that acetylcholine facilitates NMDA receptors by inhibiting SK channels, allowing for enhanced learning and memory. The discovery provides new insight into the mechanisms underlying learning and memory, with potential therapeutic applications for Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNeuron·DateDec 8, 2010

Widening our perceptions of reading and writing difficulties

Two new studies reveal distinct types of reading and writing disorders, including attentional dyslexia, which causes letter migrations between words. Italian dyslexic children's spelling impairments suggest knowledge of vocabulary is crucial in spelling, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceElsevier·JournalCortex·DateDec 8, 2010

Feeling included -- kids with disabilities have their say in landmark study

A landmark study explores how children with disabilities perceive inclusion in physical activities, revealing three key themes: gaining entry to play, feeling like a legitimate participant, and having friends. The research emphasizes the importance of valuing children's experiences and choices in creating inclusive environments.

SourceUniversity of Alberta - Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation·JournalAdapted Physical Activity Quarterly·DateDec 8, 2010

World's first microlaser emitting in 3-D

Researchers develop a microdroplet 3D laser system using cholesteric liquid crystals, producing the world's first practical three-dimensional laser. The design is small, tunable, cheap, and can be made by millions in seconds.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateDec 8, 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.

New test shows promise for accurate early diagnosis of Turner syndrome

A novel test has been developed to accurately diagnose Turner syndrome in girls, allowing for timely management of co-morbid conditions. The new test can be performed on cheek swabs or newborn screening blood spots and has shown a high accuracy rate in detecting the disorder.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 8, 2010

Scientists forecast new atom smashers to keep Europe leading in nuclear physics

The European Science Foundation forecasts the need for powerful new accelerator facilities to tackle fundamental questions in nuclear physics, focusing on energy, health, and environmental problems. This will enhance skills in advanced techniques transferred to industries, ensuring access to expertise in low-carbon energy, medical diag...

SourceEuropean Science Foundation·DateDec 8, 2010

School-based program effective in helping adolescents

A school-based program helped New York City high school students with moderate to severe asthma better manage their symptoms, dramatically reducing the need for urgent care. The program participants experienced significant reductions in acute medical visits, emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and night awakenings.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 8, 2010
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.

A new take on computer security

The MEDEA+ Trusted Secure Computing project has developed a family of components and software to efficiently secure computers, communications, and multimedia devices. These innovations include integrity management, user identification/authentication, and privacy management.

SourceEUREKA·DateDec 8, 2010

Therapy for incurable childhood diseases is in sight

A European research team has developed a form of therapy to treat Alpha-mannosidosis, a rare childhood disease causing mental retardation and hearing loss. The therapy, called Lamazym, aims to replace the missing enzyme in cells, increasing life expectancy and quality of life.

SourceKiel University·DateDec 8, 2010

Water well tests show more towns with elevated arsenic in Maine

A USGS study has found large differences in arsenic concentrations from well to well, even at the town level, highlighting the need for private well owners to test their water. Elevated arsenic levels have been detected in multiple towns across Maine, posing a risk to residents' health and requiring prompt action.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateDec 8, 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.

University of Hawaii at Manoa research focuses on congenital abnormality

Researchers at the University of Hawaii have developed a new mouse model that reveals how patterning and developmental proteins influence cervical vertebrae formation. The study, led by Dr. Jinzeng Yang, aims to improve understanding of congenital cervical vertebrae malformation in humans.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalMolecular Reproduction and Development·DateDec 8, 2010

For some, laparoscopic technique not always better

A new study published in the Annals of Surgery found that laparoscopic appendectomies may carry a higher risk of deep abdominal infections in certain patients, including those with diabetes, smoking history, and older age. The study suggests that open surgery may be a better option for these high-risk patients.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateDec 8, 2010

Elusive spintronics success could lead to single chip for processing and memory

Researchers have successfully manipulated a magnetically polarized current using electric fields, opening up the prospect of combining computer memory and processing power on the same chip. The discovery, made with flexible organic semiconductors, has significant implications for power efficiency and device weight.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 8, 2010

Surgery complications linked to chemotherapy delay, U-M study finds

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that chemotherapy delays are common among patients with surgical complications after colorectal cancer surgery. The study, which analyzed data from 17,108 patients, suggests that surgical complications can have long-term impacts on quality of care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDiseases of the Colon & Rectum·DateDec 8, 2010

Engaging pediatricians and primary care physicians in childhood obesity prevention and intervention

A panel of experts identified key barriers to physician engagement in childhood obesity prevention and discussed strategies to overcome them, including the creation of 'community hubs' and incorporating nutrition education into medical student training. The panel emphasized the need for government reimbursement and financial resources ...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateDec 8, 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.

Mutation linked to protein degradation underlies inherited ALS

A new study identifies a previously unrecognized mutation in the valosin-containing protein (VCP) gene, which causes an inherited form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The research provides new insight into the disease's underlying pathology and validates the exome sequencing technique for identifying genetic causes.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 8, 2010

Home health care could help sustain health care systems, study finds

A RAND Corporation study finds that home health care technology can empower patients to self-manage their conditions, improve health outcomes, and reduce costs. Despite its promise, adoption faces obstacles such as restrictive insurance coverage, limited patient readiness, and concerns about product design.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateDec 8, 2010

Frequent sex protects marital happiness for neurotic newlyweds

A study found that frequent sexual activity improves marital satisfaction among neurotic spouses, erasing their 'happiness deficit.' The effect occurred regardless of the marriage's initial happiness level. High levels of neuroticism are more strongly associated with bad marital outcomes than any other personality factor.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateDec 8, 2010

Discovery of the secrets that enable plants near Chernobyl to shrug off radiation

A study found that plants growing in contaminated soil near the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant adapt by altering certain proteins involved in cell signaling, allowing them to thrive in highly radioactive environments. Only about five percent of proteins were altered, suggesting a surprising resilience.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 8, 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.