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Science News for October 13, 2010


Love takes up where pain leaves off, Stanford brain study shows

A new Stanford University School of Medicine study reveals that intense, passionate feelings of love can significantly alter mood and impact pain perception. The research found that love-induced analgesia involves primitive aspects of the brain, activating deep structures to block pain at a spinal level.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 13, 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.

Alternative fish feeds use less fishmeal and fish oils

USDA researchers are developing new fish feeds with lower levels of fishmeal and fish oil, replacing traditional sources with concentrated plant proteins. The alternative diets show promise in supporting the growing demand for fish as a lean protein source, while promoting sustainability in aquaculture production.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateOct 13, 2010

Pitt team finds protein that sets the stage for exchanges of DNA code in eggs and sperm

A team led by Judith Yanowitz has discovered a protein that plays a key role in choosing where genetic material gets swapped between maternal and paternal chromosomes during egg and sperm formation. This discovery sheds light on the roots of chromosomal errors and gene diversity, with potential implications for understanding infertility.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2010

UC Riverside physicists pave the way for graphene-based spin computer

Researchers successfully achieved 'tunneling spin injection' into graphene, increasing efficiency and enabling longer spin lifetimes. This breakthrough enables the development of a 'spin computer' with potential for faster and more energy-efficient computing.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 13, 2010

A crucial link in immune development and regulation unearthed

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a protein called pre-T alpha that guides the correct expression of T cell receptors, enabling the immune system to effectively destroy harmful viruses and bacteria. The finding has significant implications for understanding immune development and potential treatments for childhood leukemia.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2010

Ghosts of the future

Scientists have found the largest known galaxy cluster at a staggering 7 billion light-years away, holding hundreds of galaxies. This discovery provides crucial insights into dark energy's influence on cosmic structure growth.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateOct 13, 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.

Taming wild grapes for better wine

Researchers at the University of Illinois St. Charles Horticulture Research Center are developing new wine grape varieties that can grow in cooler climates with reduced disease resistance. The goal is to create a good wine grape that requires less use of pesticides, improving profits for the Illinois wine industry.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateOct 13, 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.

Unexplained childhood disorders

A study explores the experiences of parents whose children have undiagnosed learning disorders, developmental deficits, and congenital abnormalities. The researchers identify frustration as a common theme, adding complexity to the parenting journey. The findings highlight the need for support and understanding for these families.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateOct 13, 2010

Growing galaxies gently

A team of astronomers has discovered that young galaxies can grow by sucking in cool streams of hydrogen and helium gas, forming new stars. This process, known as accretion, provides a gentler alternative to galaxy mergers, which are thought to be the primary mechanism for galaxy growth.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 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.

2 new 'innovation and knowledge centers' receive $32 million funding

Two new 'Innovation and Knowledge Centres' in the UK will combine research with business expertise to accelerate development of cutting-edge technologies. The centres, funded by EPSRC and Technology Strategy Board, aim to generate economic growth through sustainable products and infrastructure.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateOct 13, 2010

Triple-mode transistors show potential

Triple-mode transistors based on graphene can switch between positive and negative carriers, providing opportunities not possible with traditional single-transistor architectures. This property enables the transistor to be used in various applications such as wireless and audio signaling schemes.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 13, 2010

Questions fuel 'Ask A Biologist' website success

The 'Ask A Biologist' website provides educational content that grew from user requests, featuring expert answers from Arizona State University scholars. The site's popularity has expanded multimedia content, including a podcast competition and real-time interactions between users and experts.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 13, 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.

Web-based questionnaire can be cost-effective tool for survey responses

A recent study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that using web-based questionnaires can significantly reduce costs compared to traditional paper surveys. The study, which analyzed data from the Black Women's Health Study, showed that the cost of developing and processing a returned web questionnaire was approxima...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateOct 13, 2010

Psychological first aid for survivors of disaster

Research suggests that while some survivors of disasters experience severe psychological trauma, others may recover within a few months or years. Effective psychological first aid and community-centered interventions have been shown to be beneficial in supporting survivors' recovery.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateOct 13, 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.

New discoveries in North America's Great Plains bring ammonites to life

The discovery of well-preserved ammonites at cold methane seeps in the ancient seaway that covered North America during the Cretaceous Period has provided new insights into their paleobiology. These organisms thrived in these environments, consumed small prey, and often survived predation attempts.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalBulletin of the American Museum of Natural History·DateOct 13, 2010

Silicon strategy shows promise for batteries

Rice University scientists have created a new type of silicon anode that can store more than 10 times the amount of lithium as current graphite-based anodes. The breakthrough could lead to significant increases in battery performance and lifespan, making electric cars more efficient and cost-effective.

SourceRice University·DateOct 13, 2010

Oil boom possible but time is running out

A new study by Durham University suggests that enhanced oil recovery using carbon dioxide could unlock a North Sea oil bonanza worth £150 billion. This technology could secure UK energy supplies for the next 20 years, while being just about carbon neutral.

SourceDurham University·DateOct 13, 2010

Enzyme in saliva shapes how we sense food texture

A study from the Monell Center reveals that salivary amylase activity shapes how people perceive starchy food textures. Variability in enzyme levels influences starch digestion and metabolism, potentially impacting insulin resistance and diabetes risk.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 13, 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.

Eyetracker warns against momentary driver drowsiness

Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology developed an Eyetracker system to track drivers' eye movements and issue warnings before nodding off. The system can be installed in any car model and is roughly half the size of a matchbox, making it undetectable when mounted behind the sun visor.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateOct 13, 2010

Breaking ball too good to be true

A recent study published in PLoS ONE explains that no pitcher can make a curveball break or a fastball rise, as it appears to be an illusion. The researchers argue that batters perceive the ball as breaking due to their eyes' natural tendency to follow motion and shift between central and peripheral vision.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 13, 2010

NIH studies influence revision of WHO guidelines for treating HIV-infected women, infants

Two NIH-funded studies influenced the WHO's revision of its guidelines for treating HIV-infected women and infants. The studies found that a single dose of nevirapine to prevent mother-to-child transmission can hamper the drug's effectiveness if used later as part of a treatment regimen. As a result, the new guidelines advise against u...

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 13, 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.

Hospital readmission studies: Influencing factors identified

Two studies found that African-American patients and those with Medicaid are at higher risk of first hospital readmission. Additionally, poor nutrition and depression increase the likelihood of further rehospitalizations. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted interventions to reduce preventable readmissions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateOct 13, 2010

Florida State study finds watermelon lowers blood pressure

Researchers from Florida State University found that consuming watermelon daily can improve arterial function and lower aortic blood pressure in prehypertensive individuals. The study suggests that watermelon's natural source of L-citrulline may prevent the progression from prehypertension to hypertension.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateOct 13, 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.

Grant to fund 'pioneering' brain-computer interface technology

Researchers at Arizona State University and Phoenix Children's Hospital are developing a brain-computer interface technology that allows people to communicate and interact using their own brain signals. The three-year, $469,000 grant will help refine the interface system for use by children and adults with severe brain disorders.

SourceArizona State University·DateOct 13, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

National study shows 1 in 5 children meet criteria for a mental disorder across their lifetime

A national study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that approximately one in five children in the US will experience severe mental disorders, which disrupt daily life. Anxiety disorders were the most common condition, followed by behavior disorders and mood disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateOct 13, 2010

ASTRO, Mama's Kitchen join to promote cancer survivorship

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) partners with Mama's Kitchen to promote cancer survivorship and raise awareness on nutritional support for cancer patients. The partnership aims to provide essential nutrients to those affected by cancer, highlighting the importance of community care and volunteerism.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateOct 13, 2010

I win, you lose: Brain imaging reveals how we learn from our competitors

A new study using brain imaging revealed how people learn from their competitors' successes and failures. The research found that players experienced neural activity in response to their competitor's unexpected failures, suggesting they learned to inhibit the actions leading to those failures.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNeuroImage·DateOct 13, 2010

Noices to receive 2010 Gene D. Cohen Award

The Noices were recognized for their groundbreaking work on the connections between art, science, and human cognition in older adults. Their research has produced numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateOct 13, 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.

Can Hungary's red sludge be made less toxic with carbon?

Researchers propose using oil-field brine and carbon dioxide to reduce the pH of bauxite residue, making it less toxic. The process involves dissolving carbon dioxide in water-based brine, which counteracts alkalinity and forms a less-toxic compound.

SourceIndiana University·DateOct 13, 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.

Electrified nano filter promises to cut costs for clean drinking water

A new filtering technology has been developed that kills up to 98% of disease-causing bacteria in water in seconds without clogging or consuming much energy. The technology uses silver nanowires and carbon nanotubes to destroy bacteria, making it a promising solution for providing clean drinking water to those in need.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 13, 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.

Improving medical education in Africa

Northwestern University is part of a US-led initiative to modernize medical school curricula in Nigeria, enhancing knowledge and skills among medical students. The project aims to retain 140,000 new healthcare workers and improve primary health care capacity across Africa.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 13, 2010

Douglas A. Jabs, M.D., honored with Jackson Memorial Lecture by the American Academy of Ophthalmology

Dr. Douglas A. Jabs has been recognized by the American Academy of Ophthalmology with the Jackson Memorial Lecture for his decades-long study on cytomegalovirus retinitis and its interaction with HIV. His research aims to improve clinical outcomes in patients with AIDS and CMV retinitis.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology·DateOct 13, 2010

Walk much? It may protect your memory down the road

A study published in Neurology found that walking at least 72 blocks per week can increase gray matter volume and reduce cognitive impairment. Regular exercise in midlife may improve brain health and thinking abilities in later life.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 13, 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.

Scientists solve mystery of arsenic compound

Researchers from Hopkins, Baylor, and Stanford discovered that arsenite affects the TCP protein folding machine in yeast cells, which is also present in humans. This knowledge could lead to developing safer therapeutic alternatives to arsenite-based medicines.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateOct 13, 2010