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Science News for December 8, 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.

New paper calls for strong steps to tackle antibiotic resistance

A new paper by leading scientists emphasizes the need for a global response to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which pose a life-threatening threat. The researchers recommend establishing research priorities, improving international funding, and implementing public education campaigns to address this growing crisis.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateDec 8, 2011

New advance announced in reducing 'bad' cholesterol

Researchers from the University of Leicester and UCLA have made a major breakthrough in developing targeted drugs to lower 'bad' cholesterol levels. By targeting the enzyme IDOL, scientists aim to increase LDL receptor production, thereby lowering circulating cholesterol levels in humans.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Decisions, decisions: House-hunting honey bees work like complex brains

Honey bee swarms face a decision when finding multiple potential nest sites, using stop signals similar to those in primate brains to shorten dances and end the recruitment process. This cross inhibition helps ensure a single optimal site is chosen, avoiding deadlocks between equal-quality alternatives.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

Researchers link patterns seen in spider silk, melodies

Researchers at MIT have created an analogy between the physical structure of spider silk and the sonic structure of a melody, showing that the structure of each relates to its function in an equivalent way. The study reveals that structural patterns are directly related to functional properties such as lightweight strength and sonic te...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering·JournalBioNanoScience·DateDec 8, 2011

New target found for aggressive cancer gene

Researchers have discovered a new target for treating aggressive cancers driven by the Myc oncogene, which can be targeted by inhibiting enzymes that are unique to cancer cells. The study identified SAE2 as a potential candidate gene that slows growth rates of human breast cancer cells when depleted.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

The impact of quantum matter

Researchers at the Joint Quantum Institute create more complicated collisions between atoms using laser light, enabling the observation of high-angular-momentum scattering in long-lived atomic Bose-Einstein condensates. This innovation may facilitate the creation of exotic quantum states for practical applications like quantum computing.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

Chronic pain in children and adolescents becoming more common

A systematic review of chronic pain in children and adolescents found that most types of pain are more prevalent in girls than in boys, with headache being the most common studied pain type. The prevalence rates of childhood pain have increased over the last several decades, highlighting the need for early interventions.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalPain·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

Carving at the nanoscale

Scientists at ICN successfully refined methods to produce exotic materials by controlling reaction and diffusion processes at room temperatures. The new method enables high yields and consistency in form and structure, making it attractive for commercial applications.

SourceCatalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

MRI may be noninvasive method to measure breast cancer prognosis

Researchers found correlations between MRI measures and histopathological markers of breast cancer, suggesting the potential for MRI in predicting disease prognosis and guiding targeted therapies. The study's findings could lead to improved understanding of breast cancer biology and more accurate treatment planning.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 8, 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.

Personalized treatment for Crohn's Disease a step closer following gene mapping

Scientists at UCL have discovered three new gene regions on chromosome 16 associated with Crohn's Disease, which could lead to personalized treatment and improved understanding of its inheritance. The study used a novel gene mapping approach to analyze genetic information from 1698 patients, replicating results using independent US data.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateDec 8, 2011

Tart cherry juice drinkers gain sleep advantage

A study published in European Journal of Nutrition found that drinking two glasses of tart cherry juice per day significantly improved sleep behaviors in healthy adults. The researchers attribute the benefits to the melatonin content of tart cherries, a powerful antioxidant critical for regulating the sleep-wake cycle.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateDec 8, 2011

New study is first to test the actual impact of branded apps on consumers

A new study found that interactive branded mobile applications increase general interest in product categories and improve attitudes toward sponsoring brands. The research also showed that informational mobile apps are more effective at shifting purchase intention than experiential ones.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Interactive Marketing·DateDec 8, 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.

Uncovering how cerebral malaria damages the brain

Researchers will scan 25 children using a four-time stronger MRI machine to validate initial evidence about brain damage and disease progression. The findings could lead to significant new approaches to prevent or minimize cerebral malaria's destructive effects.

SourceMichigan State University·DateDec 8, 2011

New imaging agent has an appetite for dangerous prostate tumors

A new molecular imaging probe using ghrelin exploits the hunger hormone's unique consumption pattern by malignant prostate cancer cells. The test showed the signal was almost 5 times stronger in malignant cancer cells than in normal or benign cells.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalThe Prostate·DateDec 8, 2011

Backpacks, not the bombs inside, key to finding DNA

Researchers obtained full DNA profiles from eight backpacks containing pipe bombs and matched them with volunteers who handled the bags for a week. This method, called consensus profiling, can help rule out DNA traces from others.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

Football could contribute to strokes in adolescents

A new study found potential causes of strokes in young football athletes, including hyperventilation, obesity, and repeated neurological injury. The authors highlight the increased force of impacts among obese players, which also increases the likelihood for other stroke risk factors like hypertension.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Child Neurology·DateDec 8, 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.

Building a sustainable hydrogen economy

Researchers propose sustainable hydrogen economy as a solution to climate change and dwindling oil reserves, leveraging renewable energy sources for production and conversion. Complementary deployment of hydrogen fuel cells and battery electric vehicles can offer a versatile transportation option.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Design·DateDec 8, 2011

Pharmaceutical spam

Patients exposed to prescription drug spam are more likely to seek additional information online, potentially leading to unauthorized medication purchases. The study highlights the need for policymakers to address the impact of medical marketing on patients.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Business and Systems Research·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

Decision making in bee swarms mimic neurons in human brains

A new study reveals that bee swarms use inhibitory 'stop signals' to inhibit competing sites and choose the best option, similar to how neurons in human brains make decisions. This mechanism helps avoid costly dithering and ensures a single site is chosen.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

Scientists capture single cancer molecules at work

Researchers have visualized telomerase molecules in living cells using advanced microscopy techniques, revealing that they cluster on specific telomeres and elongate them during cell division. This breakthrough provides new insights into the regulation of telomerase activity, a key factor in cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 8, 2011

Study probes genetic link to sickle cell pain management

A researcher is conducting a study to determine if variations in genes that play a role in metabolizing opioids can help manage sickle cell pain. The goal is to identify patients who are most likely to experience severe pain and target them for aggressive personalized care.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateDec 8, 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.

Researchers describe how critical protein activates plant immune system

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding how the EDS1 protein, a central component of plant defense, interacts with other proteins to activate an immune response. The study reveals that EDS1 is attacked by virulence proteins from pathogens and triggers the activation of distinct immune responses to isolate the infection.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 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.

Climate change driving tropical birds to higher elevations

A new study by Duke University researchers has found that tropical birds are moving to higher elevations in response to climate change, but at a slower rate than predicted. The animals appear to be tracking changes in vegetation rather than migrating rapidly, suggesting a delay in their response to warming temperatures.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 8, 2011

Many women do not undergo breast reconstruction after mastectomy

Only about one-third of women undergo immediate reconstructive breast surgery after mastectomy, which improves psychological well-being and quality of life. Factors such as age, insurance status, and hospital location influence the likelihood of reconstruction, highlighting the need for increased access to this procedure.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 8, 2011

Premature babies harbor fewer, but more dangerous microbe types

A comprehensive study of premature infants found that they harbor fewer diverse microbes than full-term infants, with harder-to-treat Candida fungus and harmful bacteria prevalent. The research highlights the importance of balance in the infant's gut microbiome and suggests that probiotic substances may be beneficial.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 8, 2011

Few hospitals aggressively combat catheter-associated urinary tract infections

A nationwide survey found that few hospitals are aggressively combating catheter-associated urinary tract infections, a common healthcare-associated infection. The study suggests that hospitals may not be using enough prevention practices for UTIs, despite increased use of methods to prevent other hospital-acquired infections.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 8, 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.

Research study shows link between earthquakes and tropical cyclones

A groundbreaking study by University of Miami researcher Shimon Wdowinski reveals a strong temporal relationship between tropical cyclones and large earthquakes. The study found that very wet tropical cyclone events can induce landslides and severe erosion, releasing stress loads and encouraging movement along faults.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateDec 8, 2011

MU researchers identify key plant immune response in fight against bacteria

Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a protein called Enhanced Disease Susceptibility 1 (EDS1) that plays a crucial role in a plant's defense against bacterial pathogens. This finding could lead to improved disease resistance in food crops such as soybeans, ultimately enhancing global food security.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

Helping your fellow rat: Rodents show empathy-driven behavior

A new study by University of Chicago neuroscientists finds that rats exhibit empathy-driven helping behavior in a laboratory setting. The rats free their cagemates from restraint, even when given the option to eat chocolate instead. This observation suggests that empathy is not unique to humans and may be an evolutionary adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 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.

Toronto researchers obtain detailed molecular 'signature' for Tankyrase

Researchers at the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute have discovered a crucial component of Tankyrase, a protein linked to the bone development disorder cherubism. The study reveals how Tankyrase identifies its substrates, opening new avenues for inhibiting its function in cancer therapy.

SourceSamuel Lunenfeld Research Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 8, 2011

Sound and vision work hand in hand, UCLA psychologists report

A new UCLA psychology study finds that the senses of hearing and vision interact at a basic level before producing estimates, influencing the way we perceive the world. Even when sound is irrelevant to the task, it still affects our visual perception.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 8, 2011

Patients with persistent kidney injuries rarely see specialists

Patients with persistent kidney injuries often remain at increased risk of developing kidney disease in the future. Despite this, most patients do not receive specialized care from a kidney specialist within a year after their injury.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 8, 2011

Penn study unlocks origins of blood stem cells

A team led by Nancy Speck at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has discovered a molecular marker for hematopoietic stem cells, providing insights into their origin and development. This finding could help manipulate embryonic stem cells to generate new blood cells for therapy in leukemia patients

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

Kidney injury: A serious risk to the health and survival of today's soldiers

A study found that acute kidney injury (AKI) is common among military personnel with burns and wounds sustained during combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. The study also revealed a significant increase in mortality rates among patients with AKI, with death rates ranging from 0.2% to 65.1%. By preventing or modifying kidney injury, research...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 8, 2011

Taxi driver training changes brain structure

A study by Eleanor Maguire found that taxi driver training increases gray matter in the hippocampus, a brain area responsible for memory and spatial navigation. The brain's plasticity allows it to adapt to new tasks, even in adulthood.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 8, 2011

Study shows more shrubbery in a warming world

A NASA study using satellite data from Landsat missions has confirmed that warming temperatures in northern Quebec have resulted in an increase in shrubs and grasses over the past 20 years. The study provides a detailed view of how warmer temperatures are influencing plant distribution and density in northern areas of North America.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 8, 2011

Depressed? Crossed wires in the brain

Researchers found decreased connectivity between emotional behavior regions and an increase in connection between the caudate and prefrontal cortex in depressed brains. This disruption may lead to sustained negative thoughts and difficulty updating working memory.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBiology of Mood & Anxiety Disorders·DateDec 8, 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.

The heart of the plant

Researchers have identified a critical component of a molecular pump system that transports sugars throughout plants, which could lead to increased crop yields and improve food security. The discovery also provides new insights into plant pathology and offers potential solutions for protecting crops from pests.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

Breaking oncogene's hold on cancer cell provides new treatment direction

Researchers have developed ways to exploit the addictions of cancers to kill them without harming normal tissues. The study identified SUMOylation as a key biochemical process involved in coping with cancer cell stress, and inhibiting this enzyme may be a therapeutic strategy for myc-driven cancers.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

The world's biggest radar laboratory

The ARM Climate Research Facility has deployed 18 new scanning radars to study the lifecycle of clouds. These radars provide unprecedented data on cloud formation, structure, and evolution.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

How Salmonella forms evil twins to evade the body's defenses

Salmonella forms two genetically identical types, each with an advantage in infection and evasion. The bacteria's ability to produce flagellin triggers a self-destructive response in immune cells, but restricting production helps it colonize hosts.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2011

Research raises new questions about animal empathy

Neuroscientist Jaak Panksepp argues that animals, including rats and mice, have emotional experiences and share core emotional functions with humans. This research could lead to a better understanding of human emotions and develop more effective treatments for psychiatric disorders.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2011

Breakthrough in regulating fat metabolism

Researchers at University of Warwick have found that the CPT1 enzyme has a switch controlling its activity, which can lead to better understanding of individual metabolic rates. This discovery may lead to development of drugs targeting specific patients with conditions like diabetic keto acidosis.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 8, 2011

Humility key to effective leadership

A study by University at Buffalo researchers found that humble leaders model growth and learning, and legitimize followers' journeys. Humble leaders who admit mistakes, praise followers, and learn from errors tend to have higher-performing organizations.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateDec 8, 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.

For Midwesterners, more boxcars mean cleaner air

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that shifting truck-borne freight to trains could significantly improve air quality in the Midwest. The study estimates that reducing truck traffic by just 5% would lead to a 31% decrease in carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to taking about 4 million cars off the road.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateDec 8, 2011

Paleoclimate record points toward potential rapid climate changes

Research suggests the Earth's paleoclimate history indicates a more sensitive climate than thought, with temperatures far exceeding the Eemian period if global warming is not abated. A 2°C warming target could lead to drastic changes, including multiple meters of sea level rise and significant ice sheet loss in Greenland and Antarctica.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 8, 2011

Keeping our beaches safe

A new wireless sensor device can detect high concentrations of E. coli bacteria in under 1 hour and lower concentrations in less than 8 hours. This rapid detection system has the potential to serve as an early warning tool for beach safety, providing a more timely response to fecal contamination.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateDec 8, 2011

Study sheds light on cancer burden in Australia

Cancer incidence rates have increased while deaths have decreased in Australia over the past quarter century. The study found that Indigenous Australians face higher death rates due to disparities in cancer diagnoses, treatments, and other illnesses.

SourceWiley·JournalAsia-Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 8, 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.

Starch intake may influence risk for breast cancer recurrence

Researchers found that increased starch intake was associated with a greater risk of breast cancer recurrence in women. Women who increased their starch intake over one year were at a higher risk for recurring, with changes in starch intake accounting for 48% of the change in carbohydrate intake.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 8, 2011

Law enforcement vital for great ape survival

A recent study found that law enforcement guards and non-governmental organization support have a measurable impact on the survival of African great apes. In contrast, national development and high human population density had a negative impact on their existence.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalConservation Letters·DateDec 8, 2011
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.

Study challenges decades-old treatment guidelines for anorexia

A new study by UCSF researchers found that adolescents with anorexia nervosa who receive high-calorie diets during hospitalization experience significant weight gain and have a shorter stay. The current conservative approach, which starts with low calorie intake, is not effective in preventing refeeding syndrome.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 8, 2011

CAFE standards create profit incentive for larger vehicles

A new study by the University of Michigan finds that CAFE standards can create a financial incentive for automakers to produce larger vehicles, leading to increased carbon emissions. The study suggests that the policy can be adjusted to reduce these unintended incentives.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnergy Policy·DateDec 8, 2011

Freshman women's binge drinking tied to sexual assault risk

A study of 437 young women found that nearly half who never drank heavily in high school admitted to binge drinking by the end of their first college semester. Binge drinking was linked to an increased risk of sexual victimization, regardless of previous drinking habits. Parents are urged to talk with their children about drinking befo...

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateDec 8, 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.

To keep nurses, improve their work environments

A study of 100,000 nurses in nine countries found high burnout rates, particularly in South Korea and Japan. Better hospital work environments led to lower burnout and job dissatisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalInternational Journal for Quality in Health Care·DateDec 8, 2011