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Science News for June 29, 2010


Study shows age doesn't necessarily affect decision-making

A North Carolina State University study reveals that older adults fare equally well as young adults in making intuitive decisions, but face challenges with complex decision-making. Older adults with higher education performed better at remembering specific criteria and utilizing them when making decisions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateJun 29, 2010

ESA to set tiny hair-like Webb Telescope microshutters

The European Space Agency has received tiny microshutters, as small as human hair, which will focus the infrared camera on specific targets to the exclusion of others. These microshutters are a key component in the James Webb Space Telescope's ability to observe distant stars and galaxies.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 2010

Zapping Titan-like atmosphere with UV rays creates life precursors

Researchers at University of Arizona successfully created nitrogenated organic molecules in a laboratory setting that mimics Titan's atmosphere. The findings suggest that complex organic molecules could be present on Titan, potentially creating conditions conducive to life.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2010

Deaths in the family cause bacteria to flee

Researchers found that bacteria release extracellular DNA (eDNA) when relatives die, which inhibits the sticky holdfasts of living cells from adhering to surfaces. This allows surviving cells to escape established colonies and outcompete each other for better conditions.

SourceIndiana University·JournalMolecular Microbiology·DateJun 29, 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.

Depressed mice could aid research on drug-resistant depression in humans

Researchers have discovered a strain of genetically defective mice that exhibit behavioral, hormonal, and neurochemical characteristics similar to those of human patients with drug-resistant depression. The mice respond to certain antidepressant drugs, offering a potential animal model for understanding human depression.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 29, 2010

Diamonds and the holy grail of quantum computing

Researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics have made a breakthrough in developing diamond nitrogen vacancy materials for room-temperature quantum computing. The team's discovery could lead to significant advances in condensed matter physics, quantum information science, and diamond making technology.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 29, 2010

Surprising find may yield new avenue of treatment for painful herniated discs

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that the cytokine interleukin-17 plays a significant role in disc disease and may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches. Targeting this immune response could reduce painful inflammation and halt the evolution of arthritis.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJun 29, 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.

Pay-for-performance for hospitals

A study found that US hospitals in disadvantaged areas lag behind in treating heart failure and heart attack, despite improvement over time. The pay-for-performance program may exacerbate existing inequalities in the healthcare system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 29, 2010

Desert bats reveal the secret of their survival

Researchers found desert-living bats have reduced cutaneous water loss compared to non-desert species, with a potential mechanism involving lipid composition adjustments. This adaptation could provide significant insight into how bats cope with future climate changes.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2010

Researchers suggest new paradigm for breast cancer screening

The authors propose a new paradigm for breast cancer screening, shifting focus from mammography to more effective early detection methods. Behavioral interventions appear to have limited impact on repeat screening rates, and media attention highlights the flaws of current technologies.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 29, 2010

Computer modeling to build better mud bricks

A researcher at the University of Illinois Chicago is using computer modeling to improve the durability of mud bricks and rammed earth structures. The project aims to provide insights into their structural behavior and design safer buildings.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateJun 29, 2010

Irish hares fall foul of modern farming trap

Research from Queen's University Belfast suggests that Irish hare populations are declining due to changes in farming practices. Hares require a specific patchwork of grassland and tall vegetation for feeding and hiding, but silage fields are mistakenly identified as suitable habitats, leading to traps and population declines.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJun 29, 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.

Beating doctor burnout and protecting patients

A five-year pan-European research project is investigating whether working conditions in hospitals contribute to doctor 'burnout' and affect patient care. The study aims to identify issues within the workplace that lead to burnout and develop strategies to improve organisational culture, reduce stress, and enhance patient safety.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateJun 29, 2010

Can you make a snail forget?

Researchers found that predator scent enhanced the ability of pond snails to form memory following training, while overcrowding and reduced calcium had a blocking effect. The scientists believe that the ability to remember unfamiliar environments, new predators and food sources is vital to the survival of the pond snail in the wild.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 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.

Experiencing different cultures enhances creativity

A study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that students who lived abroad showed more evidence of creativity than those who didn't. Multicultural learning is believed to be a critical component of the adaptation process, acting as a creativity catalyst.

SourceSAGE·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 29, 2010

Impulsive, weak willed or just too much dopamine?

A recent brain study published in the Journal of Neuroscience has found that increased levels of dopamine in the brain make individuals more likely to choose instant gratification over longer-term rewards. This is linked to conditions such as ADHD, where high dopamine levels contribute to impulsive behavior.

SourceWellcome Trust·DateJun 29, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UCLA engineer's telemedicine invention poised to begin trials in Africa

The UCLA engineer's telemedicine invention uses a lensless cellphone microscope to detect sub-cellular elements and has the potential to revolutionize healthcare in developing countries. With its ability to be miniaturized, inexpensive, and easy to use, this technology aims to bridge the gaps left by inadequate healthcare infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJun 29, 2010

Fast-tracking the manufacture of glasses

Researchers have developed a new method to manufacture highly stable glass films with properties equivalent to those of conventionally aged glasses. This breakthrough uses physical vapor deposition and alternating current nanocalorimetry, enabling the production of 'impossible materials' in a matter of minutes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJun 29, 2010

Arctic climate may be more sensitive to warming than thought, says new study

A recent study suggests the Arctic climate system may be more sensitive to greenhouse warming than previously thought. The researchers used three independent methods to measure Pliocene temperatures on Ellesmere Island, finding that CO2 levels of approximately 400 parts per million can produce mean annual temperatures in the High Arcti...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeology·DateJun 29, 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.

Despite countless changes, original HIV infection lurks within

A recent study found that the original HIV strain still exists in the body months after initial infection, with immune cells degrading it at an accelerated rate. The research analyzed over 100,000 genetic snippets and revealed that the virus mutates rapidly to evade the immune system, but certain portions remain persistent.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJun 29, 2010

Turning back the cellular clock

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have successfully tracked the progression of adult stem cells through live imaging, gaining insight into how they are reprogrammed and evolve over time. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and effective cell reprogramming techniques for treating diseases such as Parkinson's.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 29, 2010

A community approach to kicking the habit

Researchers are harnessing local community champions to challenge smoking norms and encourage quitting in Aspley ward, where 53% of residents smoke. The two-year project will profile positive messages to smokers and enlist the help of community champions to raise awareness.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateJun 29, 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.

Feast and famine: MRI reveals secrets of animal anatomy

Danish scientists used MRI and CT to study internal organs in animals like alligators, snakes, and tarantulas. They found that snakes adapt their organs for big meals and digestion, allowing them to survive 'feast and famine' lifestyles.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 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.

Dr. Jayne Fulkerson receives $3.2 million NIH grant

The study will test the effectiveness of an intervention called HOME Plus, which teaches families how to create nutritious meals and snacks together, reducing screen time for children. Participating families will learn nutrition education, cooking skills, and collaborate on meal preparation.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·DateJun 29, 2010

Public transit systems contribute to weight loss and improved health

A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that individuals who used light rail transit (LRT) for commuting experienced increased physical activity and subsequent weight loss. LRT users were also 81% less likely to become obese over time.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 29, 2010

New UGA temperature table may help reduce heat-related deaths of children in closed cars

Researchers developed a new easy-to-use table to quantify vehicle temperature changes, helping public officials and parents understand the deadly consequences of leaving children unattended in hot weather. The table provides clear warnings of the risks involved, shedding light on the dangers of hyperthermia in closed cars.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJun 29, 2010

NASA data see Alex's core aligned, growing toward hurricane strength

Tropical storm Alex is strengthening due to low wind shear and warm ocean surface temperatures, posing a threat of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and storm surge to northeastern Mexico and southeastern Texas. The National Hurricane Center predicts the storm will make landfall on Wednesday, bringing potentially life-threatening conditions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 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.

Key component indentified that helps plants go green

A team of researchers from Duke University and the Salk Institute for Biological Studies has identified a key intermediary between the light system for information and the light system that makes fuel in plants. The discovery, led by Meng Chen, could help increase agricultural yields or improve photosynthesis of biofuel crops.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·DateJun 29, 2010

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy may damage semen quality in sons

Research found that mothers who drank 4.5 or more drinks a week during pregnancy had sons with lower sperm concentrations, averaging around 25 million per milliliter. The study also discovered an association between prenatal alcohol exposure and semen volume and total sperm count.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJun 29, 2010

Sandia Labs reports first monolithic terahertz solid-state transceiver

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have successfully integrated a terahertz quantum-cascade laser and diode mixer into a compact, monolithic platform, reducing the need for precise optical alignment. This innovation could enable new applications in security, communications, and medical diagnostics.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 29, 2010

Ecological Society of America announces 2010 award recipients

The Ecological Society of America honors seven distinguished ecologists for their outstanding contributions to the field. The awards recognize achievements in ecological research, education, and sustainability, including Simon A. Levin's Eminent Ecologist Award and Martin Lindegren's Sustainability Science Award.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateJun 29, 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.

Interventions to promote repeat breast cancer screening with mammography

A recent meta-analysis found that there is no single best intervention for promoting repeat breast cancer screening with mammography. The studies were heterogeneous, differing in their conclusions about similar interventions due to a lack of standardization among interventions or different populations and settings.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 29, 2010

Use of less invasive, imaging-guided biopsies on the rise

A study found that imaging-guided percutaneous needle biopsies increased by 67% between 1997 and 2008, while open biopsies decreased. The technique offers greater precision and lower complication rates, resulting in a modest growth rate of 3% overall.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 29, 2010

Is your left hand more motivated than your right hand?

Researchers found that only one side of the brain can be motivated at a time, with subliminal cues influencing hand grip strength. This unilateral effect challenges traditional views on motivation and its relationship to conscious awareness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 29, 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.

UK geneticists shed light on flowering plants

Researchers from Warwick University isolated a gene responsible for regulating CONSTANS expression, a key inducer of flowering in Arabidopsis. The discovery could enable more predictable flowering and better scheduling of crops.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2010

Ovarian transplantation restores fertility to old mice and also lengthens their lives

Scientists have discovered that ovarian transplants from young mice can restore fertility and increase lifespan in aging female mice. The procedure, which has been performed with limited success in women so far, may also have a rejuvenating effect on their behavior. Researchers believe that similar procedures could be used to preserve ...

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 29, 2010

Subtle mutations in immune gene may increase risk for asthma

Researchers found a single SNP, rs36498, associated with higher asthma susceptibility in two populations. The mutation may increase eosinophils, leading to asthma attacks. Further study is needed to understand the role of Siglec-8 gene mutations in asthma.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 29, 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.

Olympic gold? A new effect of caffeine boosts performance

New research reveals that high doses of caffeine increase muscle power and endurance during sub-maximal activities, such as everyday tasks or running a marathon. The study's findings have implications for the use of caffeine in sports to enhance performance, although caffeine remains unlisted by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJun 29, 2010

Responsible science for do-it-yourself biologists

The DIYbio community, comprising over 2,000 amateur biologists, is partnering with the Woodrow Wilson Center on a biosafety initiative to ensure safe science. The project aims to develop a positive culture around citizen science and establish best practices for safety in the community.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·DateJun 29, 2010

Smoking-related colorectal cancer in older women is associated with molecularly defined DNA changes

A study found that smoking is associated with molecularly defined DNA changes and a subtype of colorectal cancer that emerges more frequently among older women. The researchers suggest that epigenetic modifications may play a role in the development of smoking-related colorectal carcinogenesis.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 29, 2010

The teeth of cadavers reveal their identity

A study published in Forensic Science International reveals that a person's dental patterns can be used as proof of their identity with the same degree of reliability as DNA testing. The researchers analyzed over 3,000 people and found variability values comparable to mitochondrial DNA.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalForensic Science International·DateJun 29, 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.

Putting muscle into birdsong

The study found that male zebra finches use their stronger vocal muscles to control the pitch of their songs, while females rely on lung pressure. This discovery sheds light on how birds learn to sing and the complex mechanisms behind birdsong.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 29, 2010

Study shows stability and utility of floating wind turbines

Researchers demonstrate the feasibility of floating wind turbines, supporting a 5-megawatt turbine in deep waters. The WindFloat platform, developed by Principle Power, is stable enough to harness high-speed winds at depths over 50 meters.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJun 29, 2010

Cheap, simple, noninvasive blood test may replace invasive diagnostic techniques in early pregnancy

Researchers have developed a simple, non-invasive blood test that can detect chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus using molecular genetic probes. The test has already shown promise in identifying DNA from the Y chromosome and is being investigated for detecting trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome) and other conditions.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 29, 2010

'Galactic archaeologists' find origin of Milky Way's ancient stars

Researchers at Durham University use huge computer simulations to recreate the beginnings of the Milky Way, finding that many ancient stars originated from smaller galaxies torn apart by galaxy collisions. The simulations provide a blueprint for galaxy formation and reveal clues to the early history of the Milky Way.

SourceDurham University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 29, 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.

Potential industrial and agricultural uses of echinacea trump health claims

Researchers at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis are exploring the potential of echinacea in petrochemicals and agriculture. The study aims to understand the plant's metabolic processes, which could lead to the creation of novel bio-derived compounds with diverse applications.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·DateJun 29, 2010

Huntington's disease greatly underestimated in the UK

A new estimate suggests that Huntington's disease affects at least 12.4 per 100,000 people in England and Wales, likely an underestimate due to stigma and lack of genetic testing. The true prevalence may be higher, with implications for healthcare services and research into treatments.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 29, 2010

Study shows how dietary supplement may block cancer cells

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered how dietary supplement indole-3-carbinol (I3C) blocks cancer cell growth by destroying the Cdc25A molecule. I3C reduced tumor size by up to 65% in breast cancer models, offering potential health benefits and a new strategy for cancer treatment.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJun 29, 2010

Key mechanism in the brain's computation of sound location identified

Researchers at NYU identified a key mechanism in the brain's computation of sound location, finding that neurons are sensitive to rise times and detect differences between input shapes on a microsecond scale. This contradicts previous theories, which held that biophysical properties were identical for both ears.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 29, 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.

Experts analyze benefits, opportunities and challenges of Medicare Part D

Researchers studied how Medicare Part D impacts prescription costs, generic drug use, coverage for previously uninsured beneficiaries, pharmacy reimbursement, and beneficiary experiences with MTM services. The analysis found significant effects on prescribing habits and out-of-pocket spending.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalResearch in Social and Administrative Pharmacy·DateJun 29, 2010

Intensively lowering glucose: Possible benefits must be weighed against risks

A study published in The Lancet found that intensive blood glucose control showed microvascular benefits, such as reduced albuminuria and cataract extractions, but no significant reduction in cardiovascular disease. Intensive therapy was also associated with increased weight gain and high risk of severe low blood sugar.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 29, 2010

WIC might prevent mothers from feeding cow's milk too early

Women who enrolled in WIC during their first or second trimester were less likely to introduce cow's milk too soon than those who enrolled later. This study highlights the importance of timely nutrition reinforcement for low-income mothers and their children's health.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateJun 29, 2010

Novel approaches to R&D in Africa needed

The African Network for Drugs and Diagnostics Innovation aims to stimulate health product research and development in Africa. Successful implementation requires sustainable capacity, infrastructure, funding, leadership, and understanding of health R&D in the African continent.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

Hebrew University added to Singapore research program

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem has been selected to participate in the CREATE program, focusing on cellular and molecular mechanisms of inflammation. The research aims to develop diagnostic/prognostic indicators and novel therapeutics for inflammatory diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·DateJun 29, 2010

Intensive therapy improves some outcomes for patients with established type 2 diabetes but also increases risk of death, weight gain, and hypoglycemia (from ACCORD study)

The ACCORD study found that intensive glucose treatment delayed albuminuria onset but didn't reduce microvascular complications like eye disease or kidney failure. However, it increased mortality, weight gain, and severe hypoglycemia risk, prompting a shift to standard therapy.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 29, 2010

Fish with chips

Researchers used Robofish to study the collective behavior of three-spined sticklebacks in groups. The findings show that individual fish are more influenced by neighboring fish than distance from the leader, providing insights into fish group dynamics and collective animal behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJun 29, 2010