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Science News for July 20, 2010


Faster tracking of lung tumors may help treatment

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new technique that triples the speed of MRI imaging, allowing for real-time tracking of moving lung tumors. This could lead to more effective radiation therapy and improved patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateJul 20, 2010

Natural substance NT-020 aids aging brains in rats, USF study finds

Researchers at USF found that combining nutrients called NT-020 increased adult neural stem cell proliferation and boosted learning and memory performance in aged rats. The study suggests aging may be linked to reduced neurogenesis due to inflammation.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalRejuvenation Research·DateJul 20, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Less than 10 percent of injecting drug users covered by existing HIV prevention interventions; huge scale-up of combined approaches needed

Less than 1 in 10 injecting drug users globally are covered by effective HIV prevention interventions, with most relying on a combination of needle and syringe programs, opioid substitution therapy, and antiretroviral therapy. Scaling up these combined approaches is crucial to reduce HIV transmission among IDUs.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 20, 2010

Probiotics use in mothers limits eczema in their babies

A randomized, double-blind study found that mothers who consumed probiotic milk during and after pregnancy had a 40% lower incidence of eczema in their children. The study suggests that the probiotic bacteria may have prevented the development of eczema, with less severe cases in children who did develop eczema.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateJul 20, 2010

Inadequate provision of treatments, plus laws prohibiting opioid substitution, all driving drug-related HIV epidemics

Experts conclude that inadequate provision of opioid substitution therapy, needle exchange programs, and antiretroviral treatment, along with laws prohibiting OST, are all contributing to the spread of HIV among people who use drugs. Scaling up combination HIV prevention interventions is shown to be effective in curbing the epidemic.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 20, 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.

Feeling insecure in relationships may predispose people to later health problems, says research

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that people with insecure attachments in relationships may be at higher risk for cardiovascular problems. Those with anxious attachments were particularly associated with a range of health conditions, including chronic pain and cardiovascular diseases. The researchers al...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJul 20, 2010

Genetic mismatch keeps yeast species distinct

Researchers identify genes causing sterility in yeast hybrids, shedding light on reproductive isolation mechanisms. A genetic mismatch between nucleus and mitochondria is found to be a common cause of sterility in yeasts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 20, 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.

Antibiotics for the prevention of malaria

Researchers found that administering antibiotics during the liver stage of malaria infection generates strong protective immunity in mice. The treatment prevents malaria parasites from infecting red blood cells and builds long-term immunity against subsequent infections.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 20, 2010

Taking music seriously

A review of research linking musical training to learning highlights the neural connections made during musical training also prime the brain for other aspects of human communication. Music training enhances neuroplasticity and enables the nervous system to provide stable patterns for meaningful learning.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateJul 20, 2010

'Benford beacons' mark new approach for finding frugal aliens

Astronomers propose a new method for detecting extraterrestrial life by analyzing signals from advanced civilizations. The Benford beacons concept suggests that alien signals would not be continuously broadcast but rather pulsed and narrowly directed, potentially making them more detectable.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAstrobiology·DateJul 20, 2010

BUSPH researchers link widely used chemicals to ADHD in children

A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found a link between polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFCs) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found increased odds of ADHD in children with higher serum PFC levels.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJul 20, 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.

Next generation surgical robots: Where's the doctor?

Researchers at Duke University have demonstrated a robot's ability to locate and sample lesions in simulated human organs without human assistance. The robot uses artificial intelligence to process real-time data from ultrasound scans and perform tasks such as biopsies.

SourceDuke University·JournalUltrasonic Imaging·DateJul 20, 2010

Image-processing algorithm reduces CT radiation dose by as much as 95 percent

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have developed an image-processing algorithm that can reduce the amount of radiation used in perfusion CT scanning, a technology used for diagnosing stroke, cancer, and possibly heart disease. The new adaptive algorithm compares multiple scans and effectively reduces image noise while preserving iodine si...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateJul 20, 2010

Consumers love underdogs

A recent study found that consumers strongly relate to underdog brands, identifying with their stories of struggle and perseverance. The authors' experiments showed that brand biographies highlighting external disadvantage and passion for overcoming adversity drive purchase interest.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 20, 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.

New methodology improves winter climate forecasting

Researchers at NC State University developed a new methodology that combines multiple general climate forecast models to improve the accuracy of winter precipitation and temperature forecasts. The tool is valuable for government officials, providing key information for predicting energy consumption and water availability.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMonthly Weather Review·DateJul 20, 2010

New hypothesis for human evolution and human nature

Paleoanthropologist Pat Shipman suggests that humans' ability to nurture other animal species contributed to the development of language and tool-making, ultimately leading to domestication. This 'animal connection' allowed early humans to develop a system of communication and observation, which became increasingly advantageous over time.

SourcePenn State·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateJul 20, 2010

Women in their 50s more prone to PTSD than men

Research found that women are more prone to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than men, with the highest risk peaking at age 51-55. The study suggests that increased lifespan may contribute to this difference, as individuals have more years to experience traumatic events and their consequences.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAnnals of General Psychiatry·DateJul 20, 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.

Beach umbrellas do not block out all solar radiation

Researchers found that beach umbrellas intercept direct sunlight but allow diffused ultraviolet radiation to pass through, with canvas having high absorption capacity. The study aims to improve understanding of skin cancer epidemiology and provide guidelines for UV protection.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalPhotochemistry and Photobiology·DateJul 20, 2010

12 myths about HIV/AIDS and people who use drugs

Myths about HIV/AIDS in people who use drugs are addressed by Dr. Steffanie Strathdee and Professor Chris Beyrer, who present evidence countering common misconceptions, such as non-compliance with treatment and increased risk of infection from needle sharing.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 20, 2010

New method developed for synchronizing clocks

Researchers have developed a new method to accurately synchronize clocks by leveraging both GPS and the Internet. This technique uses a common-view disciplined oscillator (CVDO) to set clocks within 10 nanoseconds of a reference clock, providing unparalleled accuracy in complex systems such as computers, telecommunications, and more.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJul 20, 2010

Yale scientists discover new genetic marker of ovarian cancer risk

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a genetic marker that can help predict ovarian cancer risk. The KRAS-variant was found in 25% of all ovarian cancer patients and 61% of those with a family history of breast and ovarian cancer, suggesting it may be a new marker for high-risk families.

SourceYale University·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 20, 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.

Overweight and obese moms face more risk of early births

A study by McMaster University researchers found that overweight and obese women have a 30% greater risk of induced preterm birth before 37 weeks, increasing to 70% for very obese women. This higher risk is associated with serious health problems for the baby, especially when born earlier than 32 weeks.

SourceMcMaster University·DateJul 20, 2010

Bone cells' branches sense stimulation, when to make new bone

Researchers have discovered that bone cells' spindly extensions can sense mechanical stimulation, signaling the release of bone-growth factors. This breakthrough could lead to therapies for osteoporosis and bone loss associated with aging.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2010

Women, minorities more likely to see doctor of choice in emergency room

A study by the University of Michigan Health System found that female physicians are more supportive than male physicians when it comes to honoring patient requests for a doctor of the same gender or background. The study also showed that racial and ethnic minorities, particularly Muslim patients, are more likely to have their requests...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Emergency Medicine·DateJul 20, 2010

Disease genes that followed the Silk Road identified

Researchers have identified key genetic mutations causing Behçet's disease, a vascular condition leading to severe ulcers and skin lesions. The study found three genes associated with the disease, paving the way for new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 20, 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.

Temperature constancy appears key to tropical biodiversity

A new study reveals that consistent year-round temperatures in the tropics, rather than higher temperatures or more sunlight, are key to its stunning biodiversity. The research suggests that the world is likely less diverse today than it was tens of millions of years ago, when the entire Earth had consistent year-round temperatures.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPaleobiology·DateJul 20, 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.

Are all meditation techniques the same?

Research categorizes meditation into three types: focused attention (beta/gamma activity), open monitoring (theta activity), and automatic self-transcending (alpha1 activity). Different techniques produce distinct results, and lumping them together can lead to inaccurate interpretations.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalConsciousness and Cognition·DateJul 20, 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.

Drug users must be decriminalized along with scale-up of combination treatment and changes to drug control and law enforcement

Experts call for decriminalization of drug users, alongside a massive scale-up of opioid substitution, needle and syringe programs, and antiretroviral treatment. Current treatment programmes only reach around 10% of people who use drugs worldwide, highlighting the need for reform in justice systems and policy decision making.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 20, 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.

Why does everything look gray when you feel blue?

Researchers found that people with depression have difficulty detecting black-and-white contrast differences in their retina. The study used a pattern electroretinogram to measure retinal responses in patients with depression and healthy individuals, revealing dramatically lower contrast gain in depressed patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 20, 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.

6 new research units established

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft is setting up six new Research Units to facilitate transregional and interdisciplinary cooperation among researchers. The new networks focus on topics such as neurophysiological processes, correlated solids, the Mamluk era, combustion processes and climate change.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateJul 20, 2010

No pain, no gain? Concrete thinking increases consumer confidence

A new study found that concrete thinking increases consumer confidence, especially when making choices based on clear information, whereas abstract thinking leads to decreased confidence. The researchers tested this hypothesis in various product categories, including electronics and charitable giving.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 20, 2010

By 'putting a ring on it,' microparticles can be captured

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a method to trap and hold tiny microparticles using a silicon-based circular resonator. This technique uses optical forces to confine particles stably for up to several minutes, enabling the potential for all-optical chip manipulation.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 20, 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.

Developmental disabilities center established at Washington University

The new WUIDDRC aims to prevent and treat developmental disabilities in children through clinical and translational research, while also providing resources and services to families and the community. The center will focus on cerebral connectivity, genetics, and environmental influences, and collaborate with other IDDRCs in the Midwest.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateJul 20, 2010

Data presentation and consumer confidence

A recent study found that data presented in frequency format elicits higher confidence and more accurate conclusions in consumers. In contrast, percentages appear easier for consumers to understand, but may lead to averaging errors. The results have practical implications for regulators trying to discourage smoking behavior.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 20, 2010

Guided Care improves physician satisfaction with patient/family communications

Physicians who provided Guided Care reported higher levels of satisfaction with patient/family communications and knowledge of their patients' clinical characteristics. The study found significant benefits to physicians in improving chronic care, including reduced costs and improved health outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 20, 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.

Expedition to Mid-Cayman Rise identifies unusual variety of deep sea vents

A recent expedition to the Mid-Cayman Rise identified three unique types of hydrothermal vents, expanding our knowledge of extreme environments. The discovery provides insight into the origins and evolution of life on Earth and has implications for searching for life elsewhere in the universe.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2010

Researchers seeking the 4th property of electrons

Scientists aim to measure electron's electric dipole moment using sensitive ceramic and SQUID magnetometer. A possible imbalance in matter and antimatter could be explained by this tiny electric dipole moment.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 20, 2010

NSF funds infection-resistant orthopedic research

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology are developing novel methods to prevent bacterial infections in orthopedic implants, such as inkjet printing of drug-eluting micropatterns. This technology aims to overcome the challenge of biofilm formation and promote rapid bone healing.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateJul 20, 2010

Cellulose: Hard to digest, but full of energy

Researchers at Max Planck Institute identify CSI1 protein involved in cellulose synthesis, linked to improved cell wall digestibility and energy generation. The discovery aims to increase animal feed efficiency and tap into plant cell walls as a renewable energy source.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 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.

Astrophysicists discover a quasar that acts as a cosmic lens

Astronomers have discovered a quasar that acts as a gravitational lens, allowing them to weigh and measure a distant galaxy containing a black hole. This groundbreaking observation was made possible by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey database and will provide new insights into the distribution of matter in the universe.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateJul 20, 2010

In-store displays: How do consumers perceive pricing?

A study found that consumers perceive products as more expensive when grouped with expensive items and less expensive when grouped with inexpensive ones. Marketers can help consumers form accurate perceptions of prices by encouraging a 'discriminating' mindset.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 20, 2010

First-of-its-kind map details the height of the globe's forests

Scientists have created a first-of-its-kind map detailing the height of the world's forests using satellite data. The map provides insights into how much carbon the world's forests store and how it cycles through ecosystems, helping to explain the 'missing' 2 billion tons of carbon annually.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 20, 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.

Alcohol: The forgotten drug in HIV/AIDS

A new study finds that hazardous alcohol consumption is linked to increased HIV infection rates in Southern and Eastern Africa. Venue-based interventions have been shown to be effective in changing individual behavior and social norms, but more research is needed to address the gender gap in these programs.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 20, 2010

A baby, Skype and water research partnership with Israel

Sharon Walker, a US engineer, partnered with Ben-Gurion University in Israel to develop innovative approaches to water management. The collaboration aims to enhance global competency of graduate students and faculty through research and education.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJul 20, 2010

Schools safer, discipline worse

Research by Professor Aaron Kupchik finds that schools are safer than ever, yet disciplinary practices continue to be overly aggressive and ineffective. He recommends alternatives such as removing police from schools and involving students in the rule-making process to promote safety and well-being.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJul 20, 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.

Where the wild veggies are

Researchers have found that the wild populations giving rise to melons and cucumbers originated in Asia, contrary to previous assumptions. The study analyzed genetic material from over 100 species of Cucumis, revealing a close living relative of the cultivated melon is native to Australia.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2010

Liverpool scientists construct molecular 'knots'

Researchers at the University of Liverpool construct molecular 'knots' with dimensions of around two nanometers, using a process called self-assembly to mechanically bond interpenetrating loops. The discovery has potential applications in building molecular machines to trap harmful gases and pollutants.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 20, 2010

HIV testing for children must be improved

Children account for 18% of HIV-related deaths and 15% of infections annually, highlighting the need for improved testing. New approaches, such as routine newborn testing, could help detect more children with HIV in resource-limited settings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 20, 2010

Dairy farmers can fight growing disease threat with chlorine and stainless steel

USDA researchers found that using stainless steel water troughs with chlorinated water significantly reduces the survival of Johne's disease-causing bacteria. Chlorine is particularly effective in killing the bacteria on stainless and galvanized steel surfaces, but has limited impact on concrete and plastic.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalVeterinary Microbiology·DateJul 20, 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.

UCLA scientists isolate the first stages of tissue production in human embryonic stem cells

Researchers have isolated the first stage of tissue production in human embryonic stem cells, marking a significant breakthrough in regenerative medicine. The discovery may lead to the development of safer tissues for use in treating various medical conditions, including leukemia and sickle cell anemia.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2010

HIV in women who use drugs: Double neglect, double risk

Women who use drugs face double neglect and risk of HIV infection via unprotected sex and unsafe injections. A new proposal outlines trauma-informed approaches to prevent HIV infection, including couple-based interventions and empowerment strategies.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 20, 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.

What causes hybrid vigor?

Researchers found that genetic variation, known as gene expression noise, can lead to increased vigour in species hybrids. This study provides a new explanation for hybrid vigor, covering both natural and domesticated varieties.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 20, 2010