Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 22, 2010


Positive behavioral interventions programs found to improve student behavior and learning

Researchers found that adopting School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) significantly improved student behavior and academic achievement. The study, published in the Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, showed that SWPBIS was effective in reducing suspensions and office discipline referrals in element...

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Positive Behavior Interventions·DateSep 22, 2010

NYC public school students have high levels of access to convenience stores with unhealthy food

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that nearly all NYC public school students have access to convenient, energy-dense foods within a short walk. Small grocery stores and bodegas are common sources of unhealthy food, with higher concentrations near schools attended by low-income and minority students.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 22, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Funding for 'Waste the Waist' pilot study

A pilot study has been funded to evaluate a new approach to weight loss and physical activity in people at increased cardiovascular risk. The Waste the Waist programme aims to encourage behaviour change through lifestyle modifications, targeting individuals who are at risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·DateSep 22, 2010

Gum disease found to be significant public health concern

Research suggests that periodontal disease may affect more American adults than previously estimated, with a potential 50% increase in prevalence. The study highlights the importance of maintaining good oral health and regular dental check-ups to prevent gum disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateSep 22, 2010

Mercury found to have comet-like appearance by satellites looking at sun

Scientists have detected gas escaping from Mercury using NASA satellites designed to view the Sun's atmosphere. The STEREO mission has recorded evidence of a 'tail' of emission surrounding the planet, similar to comet-like features observed on Earth and in images taken by the MESSENGER satellite.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateSep 22, 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.

Clinical trial establishes catheter-based aortic valve replacement as new standard of care for patients

A multicenter study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that transcatheter aortic-valve implantation resulted in significantly lower rates of death among patients who cannot undergo surgery. The procedure demonstrated safety and effectiveness for this life-threatening illness in unsuitable candidates.

SourceNew York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 22, 2010

Losing your religion deemed unhealthy

A study by Penn State researcher Christopher Scheitle found that people who leave strict religious groups are more likely to report poorer health than those who remain in the group. The study analyzed data from over 30,000 cases and found that only about half of former members reported excellent health.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateSep 22, 2010

Smoking during pregnancy may harm the child's motor control and coordination

A new study from Örebro University suggests that smoking during pregnancy can harm a child's motor control and coordination, with boys potentially affected to a greater extent. The study, based on over 13,000 children, found that those whose mothers smoked at least nine cigarettes a day during pregnancy had difficulty completing physic...

SourceSwedish Research Council·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateSep 22, 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.

Taste genes predict tooth decay

A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research has identified genetic variations in taste pathway genes as predictors of tooth decay. The researchers found associations between TAS2R38 and TAS1R2 genes and caries risk or protection.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateSep 22, 2010

Largest genetic study of asthma points towards better treatments

A large-scale genetic study of 26,000 people has identified seven locations on the genome where differences in the genetic code are associated with asthma. The findings suggest that allergies may be a consequence of asthma rather than a cause, and that genetic testing is unlikely to predict who will develop the disease.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 22, 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.

Building language skills more critical for boys than girls

Developing language skills is crucial for boys to regulate their emotions and behavior, according to a Michigan State University study. Boys with strong vocabulary can exhibit dramatic improvements in self-regulation, comparable to girls with similar skills.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEarly Childhood Research Quarterly·DateSep 22, 2010

Amazing horned dinosaurs unearthed on 'lost continent'

Two new species of horned dinosaurs, Utahceratops and Kosmoceratops, have been discovered in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Utah. The dinosaurs possess unique horn structures, with short eye horns projecting strongly to the side, and one horn over the nose, making them the most ornate-headed dinosaurs known.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 22, 2010

$12 million grant to study young adult smoking behaviors

The University of Illinois Chicago has received a $12.4 million grant to study the predictors of smoking patterns from adolescence through young adulthood. Researchers will track approximately 1,200 youth to explore social and emotional contexts that influence smoking behavior.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 22, 2010

New computer-tomography method visualizes nano-structure of bones

A novel nano-CT imaging technique enables researchers to visualize the nano-structure of bone samples with high precision. This allows for better understanding of structural changes related to osteoporosis and development of new therapeutic approaches.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateSep 22, 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.

Could brain abnormalities cause antisocial behavior and drug abuse in boys?

A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that brain abnormalities may underlie the development of antisocial behavior and drug abuse in boys. The research found significant differences in brain activity between antisocial boys and their peers, including reduced activity in regions responsible for decision-making and reward process...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 22, 2010

Cocaine and ecstasy detected in waters of the L'Albufera in Valencia

Researchers found cocaine, ecstasy, and six other drugs in the canals of L'Albufera Natural Park. High levels were detected in north and areas with high population density, warning of potential consequences for humans and environment.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateSep 22, 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.

New luggage inspection methods identify liquid explosives

Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute have developed new detection equipment that can reliably identify liquid explosives. The method involves sensors detecting vapors from open containers or x-ray equipment scanning unopened bottles, paving the way for lifting of EU ban on carry-on liquids.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateSep 22, 2010

Fruit flies help Yale scientists sniff out new insect repellents

Researchers identify key genes that allow fruit flies to differentiate between smells, enabling the development of more effective insect repellents. By understanding how these genes are regulated, scientists can target similar genes in other insects to create substances that repel pests.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateSep 22, 2010

Microbiologists find source of fungus's damaging growth

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio identified Ume6 as a key transcriptional regulator involved in Candida albicans' hyphal filament-development mechanism. This finding may lead to targets for antifungal therapies, which could help combat hospital-acquired infections caused by this fungus.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalEukaryotic Cell·DateSep 22, 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.

Ocean cooling contributed to mid-20th century global warming hiatus

A new paper in Nature suggests that a sudden cooling event in Northern Hemisphere oceans between 1968 and 1972 played a key role in the observed hiatus of global warming during the mid-20th century. The research found that this cooling event was most pronounced in the northern North Atlantic.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature·DateSep 22, 2010

NC State research grant will help military combat infections

Researchers will test NC State-created molecules against different types of animal cells infected with bacteria, aiming to develop effective treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections. The project aims to identify leading candidates that both revive antibiotics' effectiveness and have a low toxicity profile.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateSep 22, 2010

China tops world in catch and consumption of fish

The study found that China's enormous population drives its high ranking, despite low per capita fish catch and consumption. The United States comes in third, while Peru ranks second in catch but not top 20 in consumption.

SourcePew Charitable Trusts, Ocean Science·DateSep 22, 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.

Talking while walking puts Parkinson's patients at risk for falls

Researchers at Florida State University found that people with Parkinson's disease alter their gait when asked to perform verbal tasks while walking, increasing the risk of falls. Even healthy adults without a neurological impairment demonstrated similar difficulties walking and talking, highlighting the need for healthcare professiona...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalInternational Journal of Speech-Language Pathology·DateSep 22, 2010

Toward the first nose drops to treat brain cancer

Scientists have developed a new form of methotrexate as nose drops to treat brain cancer, showing promise in bypassing the blood-brain barrier. In initial testing on laboratory rats with brain cancer, the nose drop drug reduced tumor weight by almost one-third compared to injectable treatment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateSep 22, 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.

Young teens who play sports feel healthier and happier about life

A new study by West Virginia University researchers found that middle-school teenagers who are physically active and play on sports teams are more satisfied with their life and feel healthier. Playing on a sports team was linked to higher life satisfaction in both boys and girls.

SourceSpringer·JournalApplied Research in Quality of Life·DateSep 22, 2010

IVF does not negatively affect academic achievement

A new study published in Human Reproduction found that children conceived by IVF perform at least as well as their peers on standardized tests from grade 3 to 12. The study also discovered factors such as older mother age, higher education levels of both parents, and lower divorce rates linked to better test scores.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateSep 22, 2010

Just 2 drinks slow reactions in older people

Researchers found that two single vodka and orange drinks significantly affected obstacle avoidance test results in senior volunteers. The study showed delayed response times and reduced amplitudes after just one drink, highlighting the negative impact of low-blood-alcohol concentrations on dexterity.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Research Notes·DateSep 22, 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.

The psychology of financial decision-making and economic crises

The report examines how individuals behave in stock and credit markets, noting that people tend to be more influenced by perceived risk than objective risk. It also discusses how financial crises impact people's well-being, including the role of cognitive biases and affective social influences.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateSep 22, 2010

Genetic factor in osteoporosis discovered

Spanish researchers have discovered a genetic link between the 677C>T variant and osteoporotic vertebral fractures in post-menopausal women. This finding highlights the importance of genetic analysis in identifying individuals at high risk for bone-related illnesses.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateSep 22, 2010

Salmonella creates environment in human intestines to foster its own growth

Researchers at UC Davis discovered that Salmonella bacteria create an environment in the human intestine to enhance its reproductive success. The bacteria use tetrathionate respiration, a sulfur compound produced by the immune system's response, to outgrow beneficial microbes and promote severe diarrhea.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature·DateSep 22, 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.

Physical limitations of breast cancer survivors

A study found that breast cancer survivors with functional limitations affecting motion, strength, and dexterity are at risk of dying from other causes, but not breast cancer recurrence. The study highlights the importance of addressing physical limitations in cancer survivorship plans.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 22, 2010

New from AAAS: A guide for parents on talking to kids about alcohol

The new book discusses research on the impact of alcohol on the growing body and offers practical tips for parents to talk to their children about drinking. Studies show that delaying the first drink can make a big difference in reducing later-life problems.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateSep 22, 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.

Video simulations of real earthquakes made available to worldwide network

A Princeton University-led team has developed a system to produce realistic movie simulations of earthquakes based on complex computer models. The movies will be made available worldwide within hours of an earthquake, providing researchers with enhanced understanding and tools to improve maps of the Earth's interior.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateSep 22, 2010

Study: Doctors overprescribe antibiotics for respiratory infections

A study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology found that doctors often prescribe antibiotics to patients with viral respiratory tract infections, despite the lack of clinical benefit. This overuse of antibiotics can contribute to the development of resistant bacterial strains.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 22, 2010

Experience, privacy guide how people choose online news

Researchers found that power users prefer customization to control their information universe, while nonpower users prefer personalized experiences with assured privacy. This study highlights the importance of considering user experience and privacy concerns when designing online news platforms.

SourcePenn State·JournalHuman Communication Research·DateSep 22, 2010

Huge post-tropical Hurricane Igor drenched Newfoundland, Canada

Hurricane Igor brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to Newfoundland, Canada, causing extensive flooding, power outages, and wind damage. The storm's circulation increased as it moved north, extending tropical-storm force winds up to 520 miles from its center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 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.

Northwestern first site open for spinal cord stem cell trial

The Northwestern University-led trial assesses the safety and tolerability of human embryonic stem cell-derived oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in paralyzed subjects with spinal cord injuries. The goal is to evaluate if these stem cells improve neuromuscular control or sensation in the trunk or lower extremities.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateSep 22, 2010

'Dry water' could make a big splash commercially

Researchers have found dry water to be an effective material for absorbing carbon dioxide, with the ability to store gases safely. It also accelerates catalyzed reactions used in producing consumer products such as drugs, food ingredients, and other goods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 22, 2010

UMCES Chesapeake Biological Laboratory to rebuild historic research pier

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science's Chesapeake Biological Laboratory is rebuilding its historic research pier after receiving a $1.7 million National Science Foundation grant. The pier, which has played a crucial role in climate change and fisheries management research since 1936, sustained major damage from r...

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateSep 22, 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.

Space-age device to deliver more efficient health care on Earth and above

A new system is being developed to provide accurate patient histories, assist in treatment, and optimize remote medical diagnosis. The integrated LTM/iRevive system will guide caregivers through the observational recording process and reduce errors, allowing for greater focus on providing care.

SourceNational Space Biomedical Research Institute·DateSep 22, 2010

UT researcher links maternal genes to selfish behavior

UT researcher Francisco Úbeda and Andy Gardner found that genomic imprinting affects children's behavior, with paternal genes promoting altruism and maternal genes encouraging self-interest. This discovery has implications for understanding neurological disorders like autism and psychosis.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalEvolution·DateSep 22, 2010

ASTRO announces 2010 Annual Meeting awards

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) honored outstanding researchers in radiation oncology, recognizing excellence in clinical and basic science research. The awards include Resident Clinical/Basic Science Research Awards, Resident Poster Viewing Awards, and Annual Meeting Scientific Abstract Awards.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 22, 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.

Searching in the microbial world for efficient ways to produce biofuel

Researchers from the USDA have identified a group of enzymes known as feruloyl esterases that can break down key links between plant cell wall polymers. These enzymes, produced by certain microbes, have been isolated and cloned for use in Escherichia coli to improve biofuel production efficiency.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateSep 22, 2010

Putting on the pounds after weight loss? Hit the gym to maintain health gains

Researchers at the University of Missouri found that resistance training during weight regain can maintain health gains, including reduced risks for diabetes and heart disease. Participants who performed supervised resistance training three times a week maintained improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and strength.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Clinical Hypertension·DateSep 22, 2010

Less pain for learning gain

Researchers discovered that combining practice with additional sensory stimulation can lead to significant learning gains. This approach may reduce the effort required for learning and improve therapies for children with language learning impairments or adults seeking to enhance perceptual abilities.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuroscience·DateSep 22, 2010