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Science News for July 19, 2010


Foreign accents make speakers seem less truthful to listeners

Researchers found that foreign accents undermine a person's credibility by making them harder to understand, leading listeners to judge statements as less truthful. The severity of the accent increases the impact on credibility, with heavy accents being rated as less truthful than native speakers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJul 19, 2010

LSU researchers secure NSF rapid response grants to study impact of oil spill

Researchers at Louisiana State University are conducting vital studies to understand the effects of the ongoing oil spill on marine ecosystems, including oyster beds and the health of naturally-occurring bacteria. Additionally, LSU faculty are exploring how people cope with major disasters through social networks, shedding light on a c...

SourceLouisiana State University·DateJul 19, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New test to predict success of IVF treatment developed at Stanford

A new test developed at Stanford University School of Medicine predicts the outcomes of a subsequent round of IVF for women who have already gone through a cycle. The test is 1,000 times more accurate than current age-based guidelines and provides personalized predictions based on clinical data from prior failed treatments.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

CSIRO grants global license for new polymer technology

The CSIRO has granted a global license to Monomer-Polymer for its patented RAFT technology, a powerful polymerization process that enables the creation of complex molecules. This agreement will allow Monomer-Polymer to market the technology worldwide and strengthen their position in material development.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateJul 19, 2010

'The friend of my enemy is my enemy'

A new study analyzing interactions between players in a virtual universe game has provided large-scale evidence to prove an 80-year-old psychological theory called Structural Balance Theory. The research shows that individuals tend to avoid stress-causing relationships when they develop a society, resulting in more stable social networks.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 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.

Nanoparticles plus adult stem cells demolish plaque

Researchers used nanoparticles to destroy atherosclerotic plaque in pigs, reducing plaque volume by 56.8% after six months. Combining nanoparticles with adult stem cells showed the greatest reductions in plaque volume and signs of new blood vessel growth.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 19, 2010

Can blocking a frown keep bad feelings at bay?

Researchers found that treating people with botulinum toxin to block facial expressions caused them to take longer to read angry and sad sentences compared to happy ones. The study supports the embodied cognition hypothesis, suggesting that emotions are rooted in basic bodily processes of perception and action.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 19, 2010

Autism has unique vocal signature, new technology reveals

A new study finds that pre-verbal vocalizations of children with autism are distinctly different from those of typically developing children. The LENA system automatically analyzed 1,486 recordings and achieved 86% accuracy in distinguishing between the two groups.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 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.

Frog killer caught in the act

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that a fungal disease has decimated amphibian abundance and species diversity in Central America's highlands. The researchers used DNA barcoding to estimate the impact of the epidemic, discovering five new species were also lost.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: July 19, 2010

A study found that drugs inhibiting the protein MTOR can impair heart function in patients with ongoing heart dysfunction. Additionally, researchers discovered that deleting the protein 4E-BP1 improved heart function and survival in mice. These findings suggest a potential new therapeutic strategy for improving heart health.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2010

HIV/AIDS treatment curbs spread of disease: UBC-BC CfE study

A UBC-BC CfE study found that increased HAART coverage significantly prevents HIV transmission and reduces new diagnoses in British Columbia. The expansion of HAART treatment plays a crucial role in maximizing public health resources.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 19, 2010

LSU receives $2 million grant for campus network advancing discovery

The National Science Foundation grants LSU a nearly $2 million BIPAS grant to enhance the university's high-speed data communication network, enabling researchers to handle large amounts of data and collaborate globally. The grant will also provide on-demand increases in connectivity for future research needs.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateJul 19, 2010
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.

Battlefield psychologists investigate stress in combat and after

Researchers monitored Israeli soldiers' neural mechanisms during daily rocket attacks, revealing a dissociative state rather than hypervigilance. This study has significant implications for PTSD therapy, suggesting a neuromarker that can predict chronic PTSD risk.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 19, 2010

Stormwater model to inform regulators on future development projects

Researchers at NC State University have developed a stormwater model that accurately predicts pollution impacts from proposed developments. The model uses regional data and can be easily modified for use elsewhere, allowing regulators to make informed decisions about project approvals.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJul 19, 2010

Research project analyzes cerebral bioelectricity in order to detect epilepsy

A research project at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid has successfully analyzed cerebral bioelectricity to detect epilepsy. The team developed an algorithm that extracts relevant characteristics from electroencephalograms, allowing for quick detection and classification of epileptic seizures.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalMedical & Biological Engineering & Computing·DateJul 19, 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.

HIV prevention science scores a victory -- the gel works!

A vaginal gel containing 1% tenofovir has been shown to significantly reduce a woman's risk of HIV infection and genital herpes. The study found that the gel was 39% effective in reducing HIV risk during vaginal intercourse, increasing to 54% for women using the gel in over 80% of their sex acts.

SourceInternational Rectal Microbicide Advocates·DateJul 19, 2010

New study challenges stereotypes of adolescent sex offenders

A new study by Michael C. Seto and Martin Lalumiere found that adolescent sex offenders are more likely to have atypical sexual interests, such as desire for prepubescent children, than social skills deficits. The researchers also identified social isolation as a key factor in adolescent sexual offending.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateJul 19, 2010

Socioeconomic status not associated with access to cochlear implants

Poor children with hearing loss have equal access to cochlear implants, but experience more complications and poor follow-up compliance compared to their higher-income peers. The study found a five-fold greater risk of complications in Medicaid-insured children, highlighting the need for improved access to these life-changing devices.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 19, 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.

$10M project to store CO2 underground in China

The project focuses on advancing ECBM recovery and providing a pathway to near zero emissions technology from coal-fired power. ECBM involves injecting CO2 into coal seams to displace methane, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by storing CO2 underground.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateJul 19, 2010

Microbial world's use of metals mostly unmapped

A new survey method reveals a broader and more diverse array of metal-driven chemical processes in microbes than previously recognized. The research could lead to innovative biofuels and bioremediation technologies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study examines sepsis and septic shock after surgery

Sepsis and septic shock are common complications in general surgery patients, with a death rate of approximately 34% within 30 days. The study identified risk factors for sepsis and septic shock, including age, emergency surgery, and co-occurring illness.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJul 19, 2010

Research develops simple 'recipe' for fungus-free horseradish

Researchers found that subjecting horseradish root stocks to hot water at 47 degrees Centigrade for 20 minutes effectively controls Verticillium and Fusarium pathogens. This simple, safe, and cost-effective method is expected to boost crop yields and improve the quality of commercial horseradish.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalHortScience·DateJul 19, 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.

Brain training reverses age-related cognitive decline

Researchers found that intensive auditory training improved sound perception and processing in aging rats, reversing aspects of normal cognitive decline. The study suggests that specially designed mental exercises may benefit people experiencing age-related cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

Wood's 'noble rot' fungus genetically decoded

The complete genome of the split gill mushroom has been published, revealing a unique enzyme-based digestive apparatus that enables it to decompose wood. This knowledge can be used to genetically modify the fungus to optimize decomposition processes and improve the properties of wood.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 19, 2010

Report examines relationship between nasal zinc gels and loss of sense of smell

A report examines the relationship between nasal zinc gels and loss of sense of smell in patients. The study found that intranasal zinc gluconate therapy may be associated with a permanent reduction in sense of smell due to chemical injury. Experts recommend increased FDA oversight for homeopathic medications to monitor their safety.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 19, 2010

When climate change becomes a health issue, are people more likely to listen?

A new study by George Mason University's Center for Climate Change Communication found that framing climate change as a public health problem resonates with people, even those who don't believe in climate change. The research suggests re-framing the issue helps people better understand and relate to the climate problem.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 19, 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.

Bridging the gender gap

Researchers have developed a new technique combining flexible sigmoidoscopy with optical technologies to detect colon cancer more accurately in women. The test identified subtle changes in tissue that indicate the presence of cancer, providing hope for improving discrepancies in screening accuracy between men and women.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJul 19, 2010

Tuning cocaine addiction

Reducing Ago2-dependent microRNA expression reduces cocaine consumption in mice, suggesting a link between genetic regulation and addiction. Further research is needed to determine which microRNAs control cocaine addiction and whether similar pathways operate in humans.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

Computer program predicts MRSA's next move

Duke University researchers have developed a computer program that can predict the next moves of a dangerous bacteria, such as MRSA. The algorithm identifies potential resistance mutations before testing begins, allowing for more effective drug design and potentially saving lives.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

Advance made toward communication, computing at 'terahertz' speeds

Physicists at Oregon State University have discovered a way to use gallium arsenide nanodevices as signal processors at 'terahertz' speeds, enabling faster optical communication and computing. This breakthrough could lead to applications in secure codes and communications, video and audio processing, and even quantum computing.

SourceOregon State University·JournalSolid-State Electronics·DateJul 19, 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.

The essential ingredients of supportive sibling relationships

Research suggests that reducing conflict is not enough to create a positive sibling relationship. Parents should focus on encouraging positive interactions, such as scheduling family activities and teaching problem-solving skills. By doing so, they can help their children develop skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalChild Development Perspectives·DateJul 19, 2010

A dead Sirt(3) to protect preimplantation embryos

A recent study by Hiroki Kurihara's team at the University of Tokyo discovered that Sirt3 helps safeguard mouse embryos against oxidative stress induced by in vitro fertilization and culture. The findings suggest that the negative effects of Sirt3 inactivation can be mitigated by using antioxidants or low-oxygen conditions during IVF.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2010

Uncovering behavior of long-dead insects

Researchers from Natural History Museum of Bern reveal courtship behaviors of male parasitoid wasps through antennal structures and coiling behavior. The study, published in BMC Evolutionary Biology, emphasizes the importance of natural history museum collections.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 19, 2010

MSU sea lamprey research sheds light on how stress hormones evolved

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified a stress hormone in the sea lamprey, which is believed to be one of the earliest forms of cortisol. This discovery provides insights into the evolution of the endocrine system in vertebrates and has implications for understanding human physiology.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 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.

Painters at significantly increased risk of bladder cancer

A meta-analysis of published evidence reveals painters are at significantly increased risk of developing bladder cancer. The risk increases with length of employment as a painter, and persists even after accounting for smoking and other risk factors.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

Stem cells made by reprogramming hold onto their past

Researchers found that induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) retain a 'memory' of their tissue of origin, making it harder to differentiate into other cell types. However, additional steps or drugs can erase this memory, making iPS cells comparable to nuclear transfer stem cells.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2010

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A pilot program gives patients access to their doctors' notes to improve communication and care outcomes. Meanwhile, a study finds that physicians often neglect contextual information leading to medical errors.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

Prolonged mobile phone use may be linked to tinnitus

A small study published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that regular mobile phone use for at least four years may double the risk of developing chronic tinnitus. The prevalence of chronic tinnitus is increasing, with around 10-15% of people in developed countries affected.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJul 19, 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.

Transparency through open notes

A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center investigated the effects of transparency through open notes, revealing mixed views among doctors and patients regarding the benefits and drawbacks. The trial involved over 100 primary care doctors and 25,000 patients, who reviewed their medical records online.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

'Runaway' development implicated in loss of function of the aging brain

Researchers identified a gene regulatory link between early brain development and aging, suggesting 'runaway' development may be detrimental. This process is observed in both humans and macaques, with the latter experiencing accelerated rates, potentially limiting their lifespan to one-third that of humans.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateJul 19, 2010

Of bugs and brains: Caltech researchers discover that gut bacteria affect multiple sclerosis

A study by Caltech researchers found that specific intestinal bacteria can induce MS-like symptoms in animals, suggesting a link between gut microbes and the disease. The bacteria, from the segmented filamentous bacteria group, were able to replicate and cause inflammation in both the gut and central nervous system.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010
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.

Drilling down to the nanometer depths of leaves for biofuels

Scientists use four imaging techniques to visualize single cells in detail, cellular substructures, and chemical composition of zinnia cells, indicating an abundance of lignocellulose. This research aims to enhance understanding of cell wall molecular architecture for efficient conversion of biomass to liquid fuels.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateJul 19, 2010

Mapping out pathways to better soybeans

Scientists have narrowed down where genes that determine protein and oil content are likely to be found in the soybean genome. Breeders can use these 'signposts' to develop new soybean lines with higher protein and oil levels, enhancing U.S. competitiveness in international markets.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalBMC Plant Biology·DateJul 19, 2010

NIH awards Rice $1.7M for cartilage-regeneration research

Researchers at Rice University aim to develop an injectable mix of polymers and adult stem cells to regenerate articular cartilage in injured knees and joints. The team hopes to find the optimal formulation of MSCs and growth factors for regenerating new cartilage.

SourceRice University·DateJul 19, 2010

Pitt team designs artificial cells that communicate and cooperate like biological cells, ants

A team of University of Pittsburgh engineers has designed artificial cells capable of self-organizing, performing tasks, and transporting cargo. The cells interact through nanoparticles and can be controlled to perform specific functions, offering a significant step towards synthetic cells that behave like natural organisms.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 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.

Scientists devise strategy in bid to beat viruses

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have developed a method to alter viral conditions, reducing mutation and building resistance. This approach can target multiple viruses simultaneously and is being explored for use in treating influenza.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

Springer to publish Journal of NeuroVirology

The Journal of NeuroVirology will cover new areas in neurovirology, including non-viral infections affecting the central nervous system. Springer's acquisition will support the International Society for NeuroVirology and advance knowledge in the field.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of NeuroVirology·DateJul 19, 2010

Adaptation in mole blood aids tunnelling

Researchers discovered an adaptation in Eastern mole blood that allows for more efficient carbon dioxide transport, facilitating burrowing. The 'super hemoglobin' enables moles to thrive underground, overcoming oxygen and carbon dioxide challenges.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 19, 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.

Seasonal influenza immunization rates among health-care workers

Healthcare worker seasonal influenza vaccination rates remain low, with a study suggesting combined education and improved vaccine access boost coverage. Long-term care home workers showed significant increases in immunization rates following targeted campaigns.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 19, 2010

Impaired activity of the protein MTOR a strain on the heart

Researchers found that mice lacking MTOR in their heart muscle cells developed a fatal heart condition, highlighting the potential adverse effects of MTOR inhibitors on heart health. Deletion of 4E-BP1 improved heart function and survival, suggesting a new therapeutic strategy for improving heart function in patients with heart failure.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 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.

Do cleaning products cause breast cancer?

Researchers found that women who used more air fresheners and products for mold and mildew control had a higher incidence of breast cancer. The study suggests that cleaning products may contribute to breast cancer risk, highlighting the need for further investigation into this potential link.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJul 19, 2010

Global model confirms: Cool roofs can offset carbon dioxide emissions and mitigate global warming

A new study using a global model confirms that implementing cool roofs and pavements in cities can cancel the heating effect of up to two years of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to taking 300 million cars off the road. This can help delay warming and mitigate global climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 19, 2010

Soldiers with brain injuries at higher risk of epilepsy decades later

Researchers found that 44% of veterans with a traumatic brain injury developed post-traumatic epilepsy, and in some cases, seizures didn't appear until over 14 years after the injury. The study strongly suggests that veterans with brain injuries will require long-term neurology care.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 19, 2010

Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery theme issue highlights work from Asia

A recent theme issue of Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery highlights groundbreaking research from Asia that can improve facial plastic surgery outcomes globally. The issue focuses on innovative techniques and materials in double-eyelid procedures, nasal augmentation, and complications of nose lengthening.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Facial Plastic Surgery·DateJul 19, 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.

MDMA (Ecstasy)-assisted psychotherapy relieves treatment-resistant PTSD

A completed clinical trial found that MDMA-assisted psychotherapy significantly improved symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients who had failed traditional treatments. Eighty percent of trial participants no longer met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD, with notable improvements in workability and emotional regulation.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateJul 19, 2010

Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., on results from the CAPRISA 004 microbicide study

The CAPRISA 004 microbicide study has shown that an antiretroviral drug can be formulated into a vaginal gel protecting women against HIV infection. This finding is crucial for empowering at-risk populations with a safe and effective prevention tool, marking a significant milestone in HIV prevention.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 19, 2010

Physicians perform poorly when patients need special care

A new study reveals that physicians often fail to take into account individual patients' circumstances when providing care. The research used actors to simulate real patients in clinic visits, finding that only 22% of physicians provided error-free care during contextually complicated encounters. The study suggests that physician train...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 19, 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.

July/August 2010 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The American Academy of Family Physicians accepted a large donation from Coca-Cola to fund obesity prevention materials, raising concerns about conflict of interest and loyalty to public health. In contrast, the organization's actions were seen as an effort to serve physicians and patients by addressing unmet public health needs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010