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Science News for April 19, 2011


New booklet about modern Antarctic science

The new booklet, Antarctica: A Journey of Discovery, provides an introduction to cutting-edge Antarctic research in various subjects. It covers topics such as the food web, ice cores, particle physics, and geology, offering insights into the continent's past and its development.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateApr 19, 2011

Physical activity improves walking capacity in Chilean elderly

A recent study published in PLoS Medicine found that a nutritional supplement and physical activity program improved walking capacity in Chilean older adults. The program, known as CENEX, was evaluated for its cost-effectiveness in preventing pneumonia and functional decline in older people.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 19, 2011

Why are we fascinated by death, horror and violence?

Veteran psychologist Jeffrey A. Kottler examines what draws a wide audience to violent entertainment, focusing on normal people who enjoy the forbidden side of destruction and evil. The book explores psychological impact and future trends in society's attitudes toward violence.

SourcePrometheus Books·DateApr 19, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Routine rotavirus vaccination in Brazil has reduced diarrhea deaths in children

A Brazilian study shows that widespread rotavirus vaccination in all areas of the country led to significant reductions in diarrhea-related deaths and hospital admissions among young children. The authors conclude that this real-world data supports the use of rotavirus vaccination as an effective measure for controlling severe childhoo...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 19, 2011

Study confirms link between breast implants and rare form of cancer

A recent study by the RAND Corporation has confirmed a link between breast implants and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a rare type of immune system cancer. The disease takes a slow course and can be controlled by surgical removal of the implant and surrounding tissue.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateApr 19, 2011

A user's guide to the encyclopedia of DNA elements

The ENCODE project has released a comprehensive guide to its DNA elements database, providing a framework for understanding the human genome's function. The dataset enables scientists to associate single nucleotides with diseases and identify new paths for studying noncoding variants.

SourceHudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 19, 2011

How do consumers judge quality? It depends on who's making the purchase

A new study found that consumers predict product quality based on attributes when buying for themselves, but rely on price when someone else makes the purchase. The researchers suggest retailers and salespeople should increase psychological distance to influence quality perceptions through high prices.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 19, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers discover precisely how thalidomide causes birth defects

New research reveals that thalidomide's toxic effects on embryos result from its breakdown products producing reactive oxygen species, causing DNA damage and birth defects. The study uses a rabbit embryo culture model to demonstrate the link between thalidomide and its hydrolysis products.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 19, 2011

Can biochar help suppress greenhouse gases?

A New Zealand study found that adding biochar to soil can decrease nitrous oxide emissions from grazing animals' urine by up to 70%. The incorporation of biochar also alters nitrogen transformations and reduces ammonia formation, leading to lower nitrate concentrations.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateApr 19, 2011

LA BioMed study finds 'thirdhand smoke' poses danger to unborn babies' lungs

A recent study published in the American Journal of Physiology found that prenatal exposure to thirdhand smoke can have as serious or even more negative impacts on an infant's lung development than postnatal or childhood exposure. Pregnant women should take precautions to avoid homes and places where thirdhand smoke is likely to be found.

SourceLA BioMed·DateApr 19, 2011

Sugar helping map new ground against deadly bug

A team of researchers at the University of Guelph has developed a potential vaccine against Helicobacter pylori, a common bacterium linked to stomach cancer. The sugar-based antigen caused mice to develop antibodies against the bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalVaccine·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

High rates of substance abuse exist among veterans with mental illness

A new study published in The American Journal on Addictions reveals that Veterans who suffer from mental health disorders also have high rates of substance use disorders. Rates of substance use disorders among those with mental illness range from 21-35%, with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia showing the highest rates.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal on Addictions·DateApr 19, 2011

ACE inhibitors may increase risk of recurrence in breast cancer survivors

A study by UCLA researchers found that ACE inhibitors may increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence in women who have had early-stage breast cancer. In contrast, beta blockers appeared to have a protective effect, and when used together with ACE inhibitors, may help mitigate this risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateApr 19, 2011

Hundreds of barrier islands newly identified in global survey

A global survey by Duke University researchers has identified 2,149 barrier islands worldwide, significantly increasing the known total from 1,492 previously surveyed without satellite imagery. The new islands measure 20,783 kilometers in length and are found along all continents except Antarctica.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Coastal Research·DateApr 19, 2011

Landmark study reveals breed-specific causes of death in dogs

A University of Georgia study analyzed nearly 75,000 dog deaths over 20 years, identifying breed-specific risks and patterns. The research highlights the importance of anticipating potential health issues to manage wellness, particularly for rare breeds like the Bouvier des Flandres.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Veterinary Internal Medicine·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Political wins celebrated with porn, says Rutgers-Camden Researcher

A Rutgers-Camden psychologist studied how internet users celebrated political wins with visits to porn sites, finding a significant link between male testosterone levels and vicarious winning. The research used Google trends data and estimated that 90% of porn use is attributed to men.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateApr 19, 2011

Taking aim at tumors

Binghamton University researchers are studying the role of tubulin tyrosine ligase (TTL) in cancer cells, which may lead to more effective treatments. The team has developed a new labeling technique to observe TTL's behavior in live cells, potentially allowing clinicians to personalize cancer therapies.

SourceBinghamton University·DateApr 19, 2011

Early product launches: How will consumers respond?

A new study by Torsten Bornemann and Christian Homburg found that consumers who evaluate a product from a distance tend to interpret high prices as reflecting high quality. Consumers who face an immediate purchase focus on the role of price as an indicator of monetary sacrifice.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

A cancer marker and treatment in 1?

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine have discovered a potential cancer biomarker in non-human sialic acid antibodies, which can also be used as a treatment to suppress tumor growth. The study found that patients with carcinomas have elevated levels of antibodies to one specific Neu5Gc-containing sugar chain.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 19, 2011

Treatment-resistant epilepsy common in idiopathic autism

A new study found that treatment-resistant epilepsy (TRE) is common in idiopathic autism, with early age at seizure onset and delayed global development associated with TRE. Researchers also discovered that patients with TRE had more developmental regression, motor and language delays than those who were seizure-free.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateApr 19, 2011

'3-D towers' of information double data storage areal density

A team of French researchers has discovered a method to double the areal density of information by stacking magnetic media in a three-dimensional tower structure. This innovative approach enables greater data storage capacity, overcoming physical limits imposed by current technology.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Improved recovery of motor function after stroke

A two-pronged molecular therapy combining inosine and NEP1-40 restores skilled motor function in a rat model of stroke. The study demonstrates significant nerve growth and functional improvements after treating strokes with this combination therapy.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·DateApr 19, 2011

Decoding cancer patients' genomes is powerful diagnostic tool

Two studies highlight the power of sequencing cancer patients' genomes, identifying novel genetic mutations that guide treatment. Researchers used genome sequencing to diagnose a patient with acute myeloid leukemia and breast cancer, changing her course from stem cell transplant to targeted chemotherapy.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateApr 19, 2011

VIMS study: Propeller turbulence may affect marine food webs

A new VIMS study finds that propeller-induced turbulence kills large numbers of copepods, tiny crustaceans crucial to marine food webs. The researchers warn that this could have significant impacts on local ecosystems and water quality.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology·DateApr 19, 2011

Democrats and Republicans increasingly divided over global warming

A study by Michigan State University researcher Aaron M. McCright found that Democrats generally believe in global warming more now than they did 10 years ago, while Republicans increasingly deny its existence. The gap between these groups has increased over the past decade, hindering meaningful national energy policies.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalSociological Quarterly·DateApr 19, 2011

Gold prices spur six-fold spike in Amazon deforestation

A recent study by Duke University reveals a six-fold increase in Amazon deforestation in Peru, largely driven by artisanal gold mining fueled by record gold prices. The mining activities have led to widespread mercury pollution, contaminating water and soil, and posing risks to human health and the environment.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

MU researchers find missing link in plant defense against fungal disease

Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a crucial component in the signaling pathway that regulates phytoalexin production, allowing plants to defend against fungal diseases. The discovery highlights the importance of phytoalexins as natural defense mechanisms for plants.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateApr 19, 2011

Collecting the sun's energy

Researchers have developed a novel transparent flexible woven electrode for thin-film solar cells, which is more stable and cost-effective than traditional indium tin oxide (ITO)-based electrodes. The new electrode uses a woven polymer material with embedded metal wires to ensure electrical conductivity.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 19, 2011

How children learn to say 'no'

A new study shows that the IPSY program, a life skills program for children, reduces alcohol and nicotine abuse among school children. The program boosts self-confidence in girls and improves communication skills in boys, making them less susceptible to peer pressure.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateApr 19, 2011

Keeping oysters, clams and mussels safe to eat

Researchers at USDA's Agricultural Research Service are investigating the use of high-pressure processing (HPP) to inactivate viruses and bacteria in oysters, clams, and mussels. The technique, already used in pasteurizing juices and meats, has shown promise in inactivating 99.9% of hepatitis A virus in mollusks.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalFood and Environmental Virology·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Alzheimer's diagnostic guidelines updated for first time in decades

The National Institute on Aging/Alzheimer's Association Diagnostic Guidelines for Alzheimer's Disease outline new approaches for clinicians and researchers. The guidelines cover the full spectrum of the disease, including preclinical stages, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia due to Alzheimer's pathology.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·DateApr 19, 2011

Hope for children with rare genetic defect

Researchers at Goethe University and Harvard Medical School develop screening method for active ingredients to treat Batten disease, a devastating disorder affecting vision and motor abilities. The breakthrough uses innovative microscopy technology and identifies biomarkers for potential drug intervention.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateApr 19, 2011

Encore of corporate tax holiday unlikely to stimulate economy

A repeat corporate tax holiday is unlikely to boost the stagnant US economy, according to a University of Illinois expert. The previous 2005 tax holiday resulted in repurchases of shares rather than increased domestic investment and employment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Public Economics·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Does seeing overweight people make us eat more?

Consumers tend to eat more indulgent food after seeing someone who is overweight, according to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research. Thinking about personal health goals and reminding oneself of the link between eating and weight problems can help people avoid overindulging.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 19, 2011

Why do hopeful consumers make healthier choices than happy ones?

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that hopeful consumers are more likely to choose healthy snacks like fruit over unhealthy options like candy bars. The authors suggest that this is because hopeful individuals focus on the future, rather than dwelling on past experiences or present emotions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 19, 2011

Gulf oil spill similar to Exxon Valdez in initial social and mental impacts, study finds

A new study reveals that the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill caused significant social disruption and psychological stress among Gulf residents, similar to the aftermath of the Exxon Valdez spill. The study found that family health concerns, economic loss, and exposure to oil were key factors contributing to higher levels of stress.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAmerican Behavioral Scientist·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Study of European HIV-positive children shows that 1 in 8 experience triple-class virological failure by 5 years after starting antiretroviral treatment

A study of European HIV-positive children reveals that 12% develop triple-class virological failure by 5 years after starting antiretroviral treatment, compared to adults. The high failure rate underlines the need for strategies to promote optimum drug adherence in children and young people.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 19, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study suggests another look at testosterone-prostate cancer link

A new study published in The Journal of Urology found that testosterone therapy does not cause rapid growth of prostate cancer in men with untreated or low-risk prostate cancer. Testosterone treatment was associated with improved symptoms and quality of life, without increasing the risk of cancer progression.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalUrology·DateApr 19, 2011

How American consumers view debt: a case study

Researchers found that Americans struggle with financial literacy, often relying on personal experience rather than education. The study also highlights the cultural normalization of credit card use and heavy debt, which contributes to risky financial behavior.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 19, 2011

Changes in land use favor the expansion of wild ungulates

A study by Spanish researchers finds that changes in land use have led to the expansion of wild ungulates such as roe deer and red deer. The expansion is also linked to official protection measures and human mobility.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalLandscape Ecology·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

New biosensor microchip could speed up drug development, Stanford researchers say

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new biosensor microchip that can analyze thousands of protein-binding events simultaneously and continuously, potentially speeding up the process of drug development. The technology uses magnetic nanotags to detect interactions with greater sensitivity, enabling researchers to predict...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 19, 2011

Distribution of British soil bacteria mapped for the first time

A comprehensive study of British soil biodiversity has been conducted, mapping bacterial distributions for the first time. The research found that acidic soils are dominated by few taxa, while bacterial diversity is strongly related to soil pH.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateApr 19, 2011

UCLA researchers now 1 step closer to controlled engineering of nanocatalysts

Researchers at UCLA have made a breakthrough in controlled engineering of nanocatalysts by using surfactants and biomolecules to produce predictable shapes. This innovation has the potential to improve catalytic properties and lead to more efficient energy production and reduced pollution.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 19, 2011

CD image import reduces unnecessary imaging exams in emergency rooms

A new study found that implementing a system to upload CD images of emergency transfer patients into the receiving institution's picture archiving and communication system (PACS) decreased subsequent imaging rates by 17%. This reduces unnecessary medical imaging tests, some of which expose patients to radiation.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Bringing new ideas to fruition

In 'The Art of Invention', Paley explores the essential aspects of creative thinking, from identifying a problem or need to finding an inspired solution. He offers detailed guidance for aspiring inventors and experienced designers alike on conceptualizing ideas and turning them into reality.

SourcePrometheus Books·DateApr 19, 2011

LSUHSC research discovery may block ALS disease process

A study by Dr. Udai Pandey's lab at LSU Health Sciences Center found that blocking the abnormal movement of a mutated FUS protein in fruit flies can block the ALS disease process. The research provides a valuable resource for performing drug screens to identify potential therapeutic interventions.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateApr 19, 2011

Different views of God may influence academic cheating

Researchers found that students who believe in a harsh, punishing God are less likely to cheat on tests, whereas those who believe in a loving, forgiving God are more likely to cheat. This suggests that the type of God one believes in plays a significant role in shaping moral behavior.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalInternational Journal for the Psychology of Religion·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Peppermint earns respect in mainstream medicine

Researchers discovered peppermint's effectiveness in relieving Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) pain by activating the TRPM8 anti-pain channel. IBS affects 20% of Australians, causing abdominal pain, bloating, and digestive issues.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPain·DateApr 19, 2011

Spring-cleaning the mind?

A Concordia University study reveals that a cluttered brain can hinder memory, with older individuals struggling to recall and process information. The research suggests that reducing mental clutter and engaging in mentally stimulating activities may help improve memory and cognitive function.

SourceConcordia University·JournalQuarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology·DateApr 19, 2011
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Future of personalized cancer care is promising and near

Two studies published in JAMA describe the first clinical applications of whole-genome sequencing in patients with cancer, enabling targeted therapies based on genetic mutations. The technology is becoming increasingly affordable, with costs expected to drop below $10,000 within five years.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJAMA·DateApr 19, 2011

Exploiting the stress response to detonate mitochondria in cancer cells

Researchers discovered a new way to combine anti-cancer drugs, using Gamitrinib to sensitize tumor cells to TRAIL. This combination approach kills glioblastoma cells in both mouse models and human glioblastoma cells, offering a potential treatment for aggressive brain cancer.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 19, 2011

Rational, emotional reasons guide genetic-testing choices

A study by UC Riverside psychologists found that potential users of direct-to-consumer genetic tests are influenced by perceived benefits and barriers to testing, as well as anticipated regret over testing versus not testing. Participants who received only positive information expressed greater intentions to pursue testing.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPsychology and Health·DateApr 19, 2011
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Leburton named associate member of Royal Academy of Belgium

Jean-Pierre Leburton has been elected to the Royal Academy of Belgium's newest class, Technology and Society, due to his expertise in nanotechnology. He was also a collaborator with Belgian colleagues on research projects, which contributed to his selection.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateApr 19, 2011

Advice vs. experience: Genes predict learning style

Researchers found that genetic variations can predict how persistently people will believe advice, even when it contradicts their experience. The study highlights the role of confirmation bias in decision-making, where people tend to distort experiences to align with pre-existing beliefs.

SourceBrown University·DateApr 19, 2011

LED efficiency puzzle solved by UC Santa Barbara theorists

UC Santa Barbara researchers identify Auger recombination as the mechanism behind LED droop, a drop in efficiency when operating at high powers. They propose using thicker quantum wells or growing devices along non-polar directions to minimize this loss mechanism.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 19, 2011
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.

Decoding human genes is the goal of a new open-source encyclopedia

The ENCODE Project, a massive database cataloging the human genome's functional elements, is being made available as an open resource. The project provides a guide for using the vast amounts of data and resources produced so far, facilitating scientific discovery and public understanding of science.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 19, 2011

Houston grandmother is nation's first 'Super Wi-Fi' user

Rice University and nonprofit Technology For All launch free community broadband Wi-Fi network in East Houston neighborhood, providing underserved residents with reliable internet access. The network uses dynamic spectrum access technology to automatically shift between traditional Wi-Fi and unused TV channels for optimal coverage.

SourceRice University·DateApr 19, 2011