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Science News for January 19, 2011


Girls who are bullied are at risk for substance use through depression

A new study has identified a link between bullying and substance use in adolescent girls, primarily through the mechanism of depression. The research, based on data from a nationally representative sample of 1,495 tenth graders, found that bullying can have serious consequences for young girls.

SourceSociety for Prevention Research·JournalPrevention Science·DateJan 19, 2011

U of Alberta researcher working towards pharmacological targets for cholera

A U of Alberta researcher is working towards developing a pharmacological target for cholera by understanding the bacteria's mechanism of infection and survival. He has discovered how Vibrio cholerae uses molecular nano-syringes to infect host cells, providing a potential vaccine target.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2011

Malaria parasite caught red-handed invading blood cells

Researchers use OMX 3D SIM super resolution microscopy to visualize malaria parasite invasion, revealing key molecular and cellular events. This technology may pave the way for developing new treatments for malaria.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJan 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.

A mathematical model for moving bottlenecks in road traffic

A mathematical model for moving bottlenecks in road traffic is proposed, taking into account the influence of a slow-moving vehicle on entire traffic flow. The model improves transportation designs and reduces congestion, accidents, and risk management.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Mathematical Analysis·DateJan 19, 2011

Scientists reveal complete structure of HIV's outer shell

Researchers at Scripps Research and UVa determine the structure of HIV's protein package, also known as the capsid. The detailed description provides a roadmap for developing drugs that can disrupt its formation and prevent infection. The study uses X-ray crystallography to reveal the flexibility and mobility of the capsid's components.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 19, 2011

Bedbug genetic study finds possible pesticide-resistance genes

A recent study on bedbugs has identified potential genes associated with pesticide resistance, shedding light on the mechanisms behind their increasing resilience to insecticides. The research may lead to the development of novel control methods that are more effective against these troublesome insects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 19, 2011

Couples sometimes communicate no better than strangers

A recent study found that married couples and close friends may not communicate as well as they think. The researchers used an experiment to test this idea, finding that accuracy rates for spouses and strangers were statistically identical. Closeness can create the illusion of insight, leading to communication problems.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJan 19, 2011

Killer paper for next-generation food packaging

Scientists have developed a new food packaging material that uses silver nanoparticles to fight bacteria and extend shelf life. The material has been shown to be effective against E. coli and S. aureus, two common causes of bacterial food poisoning.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateJan 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.

Research provides new kidney cancer clues

Researchers have identified a frequently mutated gene, PBRM1, in one in three patients with the most common form of renal cancer. The gene is tied to two previously identified genes on chromosome 3 and plays a role in controlling cell growth and repairing DNA damage.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 19, 2011

Speeding up Mother Nature's very own CO2 mitigation process

Researchers have developed a seawater/mineral carbonate gas scrubber that removes up to 97% of CO2, converting it to dissolved calcium bicarbonate. This can help mitigate ocean acidification and its effects on marine life, such as coral reefs.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 19, 2011

Pitt study: End-of-life decisions take longer if patient hasn't shared wishes with family

A study conducted at four US intensive care units found that caregivers who hadn't discussed life support measures with critically ill patients took nearly two weeks longer to make decisions. Patients' loved ones were also more confident as surrogate decision-makers when they perceived high-quality communication with physicians.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateJan 19, 2011

40-year-old test procedure finds modern niche in developing new medicines

Researchers are leveraging a 40-year-old blood test procedure to develop new lifesaving medications, utilizing modern lab instruments for greater sensitivity. The approach reduces sample requirements, storage, and shipping costs, potentially saving millions of dollars in drug development.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 19, 2011

Parental divorce linked to suicidal thoughts

A new study found that adult children of divorce are at higher risk of suicidal thoughts, especially men who experienced parental divorce before age 18. Men from divorced families had more than three times the odds of suicidal ideation compared to men from intact families.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateJan 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.

Spike reported in number of people with HIV having a stroke

Research suggests that people with HIV are up to three times more likely to experience a stroke than those without the condition. The study found a 67% increase in stroke hospitalizations among people with HIV, despite a decline in overall stroke rates.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 19, 2011

Health-care systems not using best evidence in decision-making

A study by Dr. Sharon Straus found that 55% of adult patients do not receive recommended care, highlighting the need for improved knowledge translation in healthcare. Evidence-based approaches, such as delirium prevention strategies, can lower hospitalization rates and improve patient outcomes.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Epidemiology·DateJan 19, 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.

Students are more likely to retake the SAT if their score ends with '90'

A study published in Psychological Science found that students are more likely to retake the SAT if their score ends with a round number, such as 1290. This phenomenon suggests that people are driven by self-motivation and arbitrary goals, leading them to take major actions like retaking a test.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 19, 2011

Strong scientific peer review leads to better science and policy formation

A special issue of Technology & Innovation explores the history, process, and practice of scientific peer review. Key findings include a need for qualified, independent reviewers, transparent processes, and avoiding conflicts of interest to ensure integrity in federal policy formation.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateJan 19, 2011

Triblock spheres provide a simple path to complex structures

University of Illinois researchers developed a simple method to create intricate lattice structures using triblock Janus spheres. The innovative material exhibits self-assembly capabilities, enabling the creation of porous sheets with tailored properties for specialized filtering applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateJan 19, 2011

VIMS team glides into polar research

Researchers from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science deployed an underwater glider in the Ross Sea near Antarctica, collecting data on water temperature, salinity, and chlorophyll concentrations. The glider's continuous sampling allows for a better understanding of short-term physical changes and their impact on ocean biology.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·DateJan 19, 2011

PNNL recognized for technology transfer

PNNL has developed power-delivery devices to improve trace gas analysis and create propylene glycol from renewable sources. The lab's IncubATRTM technology enables real-time monitoring of live cells, accelerating scientific discovery and reducing animal testing.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJan 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.

New mortgage design would minimize home foreclosures

Researchers propose a new adjustable balance mortgage contract that resets the loan balance and monthly payment based on the mortgaged home's market value. This design reduces the economic incentive to default, costing about the same as a typical fixed-rate mortgage.

SourcePenn State·JournalReal Estate Economics·DateJan 19, 2011

How does anesthesia disturb self-perception?

Researchers found that anaesthetizing an arm impairs the ability to distinguish between right and left hands, leading to false sensations and altered body perception. The study aimed to understand how neuronal circuits are reorganized during anesthesia, which could lead to new therapeutic tools for treating phantom limb pain.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalAnesthesiology·DateJan 19, 2011

UCSF team views genome as it turns on and off inside cells

UCSF researchers developed a new approach to examine how cells convert DNA into RNA, bridging a gap in understanding gene expression. The technique enables direct observation of the transcription process at unprecedented resolution, providing insights into gene regulation and function.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateJan 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.

Study suggests possible new treatment for severe 2009 H1N1 infection

A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases suggests that convalescent plasma therapy may reduce the death rate in patients severely ill with 2009 H1N1 influenza. The treatment showed a 20% mortality rate compared to 55% in non-treated patients, and reduced viral load at a higher rate.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJan 19, 2011

University of Illinois study confirms glycerin as a feasible feedstuff for swine

The University of Illinois study found that swine diets can include up to 15% glycerin and achieve comparable performance to a conventional corn:soybean diet. However, the study revealed no effect of feeding glycerin on meat quality. The availability and cost of glycerin may impact its use as a feed ingredient.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJan 19, 2011

Putting the dead to work for conservation biology

A new review highlights the importance of geohistorical data in conservation biology, providing insights into species responses to climate change. Fossil records show that some species persisted in suitable habitats despite range contractions, while others went extinct due to human activities.

SourcePaleontological Research Institution·DateJan 19, 2011

Sea-level researchers win major funding

A major grant award of £3.3 million has been secured by a Southampton-led consortium project to study past and possible future sea-level rise. The researchers aim to obtain a better picture of how much and how quickly sea level may rise as a result of global warming.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·DateJan 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.

Hotspots tamed by BEAST

Researchers have developed a single molecule imaging technology called BEAST to map the electromagnetic field inside nano-sized metal hotspots. The results show highly localized fields with exponential shapes that rise steeply to peaks and decay quickly.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJan 19, 2011

MIT scientists discover cancer-fighting role for cells

Researchers found that endothelial cells lining blood vessels secrete molecules suppressing tumor growth and invasion. The discovery could lead to a new way to treat cancer by implanting these cells adjacent to the tumor.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 19, 2011
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Like humans, amoebae pack a lunch before they travel

Researchers found that about a third of wild-collected Dictyamoeba are 'farmers' who store bacteria as food and thrive in environments where others struggle to find sustenance. The study's findings suggest potential insights into the development of new treatments for diseases like tuberculosis.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·DateJan 19, 2011

Data matrix codes used to catalogue archaeological heritage

Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have implemented a digital cataloguing system that uses data matrix codes to reduce manual registration errors in archaeological heritage. The system, tested on Spanish and African sites, demonstrates substantial advantages over manual coding in terms of speed and reliability.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalJournal of Cultural Heritage·DateJan 19, 2011

Research provides new kidney cancer clues

Researchers have identified a gene, PBRM1, that is mutated in one in three patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common form of kidney cancer. This discovery provides new insights into the biology of renal cancer and may lead to new therapeutic directions for treatment.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 19, 2011

Survey reveals potential innovation gap in the US

A new survey by the Lemelson-MIT Invention Index reveals that American women and men ages 16-25 possess characteristics necessary to become inventors, yet do not see themselves as inventive. Young adults cite access to funding, education, and mentorship as key factors to encourage inventive pursuits.

SourceLemelson-MIT Program·DateJan 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.

Researchers discover giant crayfish species right under their noses

Researchers have discovered a new species of giant crayfish, Barbicambarus simmonsi, in Tennessee and Alabama, which is at least twice the size of its closest relative. The species was found under rocks in a creek and has distinctive 'bearded' antennae with setae that enhance sensory function.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the Biological Society of Washington·DateJan 19, 2011

Biological clock ticks slower for female birds who choose good mates

A recent study published in Oikos found that female birds' fertility declines less quickly when they mate with healthier, more experienced males who became first-time fathers at a younger age. This suggests that male partners play a role in how fast females pass their prime.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalOikos·DateJan 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.

Stroke rate rises for patients with HIV infection

Researchers found a significant rise in stroke diagnoses among HIV-infected patients between 1997 and 2006, with ischemic strokes being the primary cause. The study suggests that HAART therapy may be linked to an increased risk of stroke due to metabolic complications, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeurology·DateJan 19, 2011

Internet-based rehab is a viable treatment option following knee surgery

A new study published in JBJS shows that internet-based postoperative rehabilitation (telerehabilitation) is a viable treatment option for patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. Telerehabilitation allows patients to receive rehab services from the comfort of their own homes, achieving outcomes comparable to traditional rehab.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJan 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.

MU research on teacher retirement systems timely for reform efforts

Researchers at the University of Missouri are calling for reform of teacher retirement benefit systems due to huge unfunded pension liabilities. The systems have important effects on school staffing and finance, with some estimates suggesting unfunded liabilities of one trillion dollars or more.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEducation Finance and Policy·DateJan 19, 2011

Molecular battle in cancer cells offers clues for treatment

Researchers discovered that IDH mutation leads to a metabolic battle between molecules ?-KG and 2-HG, contributing to cancer development. Bolstering ?-KG production could offer a new treatment option for patients with the mutation, which affects 75% of people with low-grade brain tumors and 20% of those with acute myeloid leukemia.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 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.

Man, volcanoes and the sun have influenced Europe's climate over recent centuries

A recent study suggests that European seasonal temperatures have been affected by volcanic eruptions, solar activity, and greenhouse gas emissions since the 17th century. The research team used climate models and historical data to reconstruct past climate scenarios, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of climate change.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 19, 2011

New European collaboration on cancer research

The EurocanPlatform project aims to find more effective ways to prevent, detect and treat cancer. By combining resources and expertise, researchers hope to identify patients at risk for cancer and adapt therapies to individual circumstances.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateJan 19, 2011

Creating simplicity: How music fools the ear

Researchers used music compression algorithms to study brain response to complex and simple sounds. They found that enduring musical masterpieces tend to have high compressibility, suggesting our brains respond to simple patterns. This theory may lead composers to create music with simpler data structures for greater appeal.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Research Notes·DateJan 19, 2011

Roundworm unlocks pancreatic cancer pathway

A team of researchers has made a discovery about how the Ras oncogene chooses a signaling pathway and its consequences in cellular development, a key issue in cancer. The study used a common roundworm, C. elegans, to identify the critical events leading to pancreatic cancer.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 19, 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.

Toward controlling fungus that caused Irish potato famine

Researchers have isolated a key hormone that allows the Phytophthora fungi to reproduce and developed a synthetic version of this hormone. This breakthrough could lead to an effective method to combat this ancient scourge, which has caused devastating potato crop failures and food shortages globally.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalOrganic Letters·DateJan 19, 2011

Study finds celiac patients can eat hydrolyzed wheat flour

Researchers found that hydrolyzed wheat flour baked goods are not toxic to celiac disease patients, with some even developing subtotal atrophy without clinical complaints. The study suggests further research on therapies to reduce gluten toxicity beyond the standard gluten-free diet.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 19, 2011

A second language gives toddlers an edge

Bilingual toddlers as young as 24 months exhibit comparable vocabulary in both languages and show cognitive advantages over unilingual peers. This early bilingual advantage is likely due to infants' experience with two languages, providing a competitive edge in executive functioning.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJan 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.

Mathematical model explains how complex societies emerge, collapse

A new mathematical model explores the emergence and collapse of complex societies via warfare, revealing that stability is strongly promoted by wealth, power, and well-defined succession mechanisms. The model also predicts 'chiefly cycles' of rapid growth and collapse due to warfare, which can occur without environmental disturbances.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·DateJan 19, 2011

Small molecules may prevent ebola infection

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a family of small molecules that bind to the Ebola virus's outer protein coat and inhibit its entry into human cells. The findings demonstrate a potential breakthrough in preventing Ebola infection, with further studies planned to confirm efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJan 19, 2011

How much sex is enough?

Research published in BMC Evolutionary Biology shows that polygamous mice produce more fertile offspring due to increased sperm competitiveness. After 12 generations of competitive selection, polygamous males outperformed monogamous males in both paternity and fertility rates.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJan 19, 2011

Coronary imaging enhances ability to identify plaques likely to cause future heart disease

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals that most untreated plaques causing unexpected heart attacks have large plaque burdens or small lumen areas, making them detectable by grayscale IVUS. The use of combination imaging modalities improves the ability to predict future adverse events.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 19, 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.

Unfolding pathogenesis in Parkinson's

A recent study suggests that damaged alpha-synuclein proteins can spread between cells in a 'prion-like' manner, contributing to Parkinson's disease pathogenesis. This cell-to-cell transfer mechanism may play a significant role in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 19, 2011