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Science News for January 26, 2011


Fishy consequences of transplanting trout, salmon, whitefishes

A review of 93 wild and aquaculture fish populations found that regional variance affects reproduction, growth, and stress response in trout, salmon, charr, whitefishes, and graylings. The research highlights the importance of considering local adaptation when transplanting species to new habitats.

SourceConcordia University·JournalHeredity·DateJan 26, 2011

Sharing child caregiving may increase parental conflict, study finds

A new study found that couples with shared childcare experience more conflict than those with the mother as primary caregiver. Fathers' involvement in play activities with their children, rather than caregiving duties, is associated with more supportive co-parenting relationships.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJan 26, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Difficult' patients more likely to experience worse symptoms

A recent study found that nearly 18% of patients are perceived as 'difficult' by their physicians, leading to lower satisfaction and trust. These difficult encounters also result in worsening symptoms two weeks after the consultation.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 2011

Waterhemp rears its ugly head ... again

Researchers confirm waterhemp's first evolution of resistance to HPPD-inhibiting herbicides, requiring a more integrated approach to management. The development of new options and changing practices are needed to combat the increasing threat of multiple-herbicide resistant weed populations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 26, 2011

Little-known growth factor enhances memory, prevents forgetting in rats

A naturally occurring growth factor called IGF-II has been found to enhance retention and prevent forgetting of fear memories in rats. The study suggests that IGF-II could become a potential drug target for boosting memory, with the potential to address clinical problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 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.

February 2011 Lithosphere highlights

The article discusses recent movements and past deformation in Central America, California, Turkey, and Canada. Key findings include the present rates and directions of movement between El Salvador and Nicaragua, as well as the role of low-angle normal faulting in active tectonics in the northern Owens Valley.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateJan 26, 2011

Making a point

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new method for rapidly prototyping nanoscale devices and structures, combining the benefits of scanning-probe lithography and polymer pen lithography. The technique, called hard-tip, soft-spring lithography, produces patterns with sub-50-nanometer resolution and scalability.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2011

Microproteomics, immunoimaging featured in Cold Spring Harbor Protocols

The February issue of Cold Spring Harbor Protocols features a method for quantitative proteomic profiling using laser capture microdissection and nanoscale liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Immunoimaging is also explored, with methods for studying immune system dynamics using two-photon microscopy.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCold Spring Harbor Protocols·DateJan 26, 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.

Eating poorly can make us depressed

A six-year study of 12,059 volunteers found that high intake of trans-fats increased the risk of depression by up to 48%, while polyunsaturated fats and olive oil were associated with a lower risk. The researchers suggest that diet may play a key role in both depression and cardiovascular disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 26, 2011

Racial stereotyping found in US death certificates

A study found that US death certificates exhibit racial stereotyping, with discrepancies in racial classifications varying across the population. The researchers' review of 22,905 death certificates revealed patterns reflecting long-running stereotypes about violence and alcoholism.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 26, 2011

Shockable cardiac arrests are more common in public than home

A comprehensive NIH study found that cardiac arrests in public settings had a higher percentage of ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, the types of abnormal heart rhythms treatable by electric shock. More than one-third of public cardiac arrests treated with an AED survived, compared to 12 percent at home.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 26, 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.

Smart USC fences recognize bad airport neighbors

The smart sensor system recognizes spatio-temporal patterns of perimeter intrusion by foot, fence, or vehicle to protect remote perimeters against unauthorized access. It actively raises alerts for fence climbing and human footsteps while ignoring typical visitor activity.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateJan 26, 2011

The water temperature in the subtropical Atlantic falls due to wind action

Researchers have recorded a 0.15°C drop in subtropical Atlantic water temperature between 1998 and 2006, attributed to wind-induced circulation. This finding challenges climate change theories, highlighting the significance of ocean natural variability.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Physical Oceanography·DateJan 26, 2011

Hormones dictate breeding success in birds

Scientists found that birds' hormone levels, particularly corticosterone and prolactin, play a crucial role in determining their reproductive success. Birds with low corticosterone values before breeding raised the most offspring, while those with high prolactin levels started laying eggs earlier and produced more offspring.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·DateJan 26, 2011

Casualties of war: Wounded veterans more likely to die of coronary heart disease

A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that wounded veterans are more likely to die from coronary heart disease due to war-time stress. The research, conducted by Dr. Seppo Nikkari and his team, surveyed 55-year-old Finnish WW2 veterans and found a significant correlation between physical trauma and an increased risk of CHD.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJan 26, 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.

Chemists turn gold to purple -- on purpose

Researchers confirmed that citric acid reacts with sunlight to harvest energy and form purple-colored nanoparticles, a potential green energy source.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Nanoparticle Research·DateJan 26, 2011

2 rockets set to launch from Poker Flat Research Range

Scientists will launch two NASA sounding rockets to study the Whirlpool Galaxy and measure nitric oxide in the upper atmosphere. The launches are scheduled for January 26 and January 30, with researchers using ultraviolet instruments to capture images of distant galaxies and stars.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateJan 26, 2011

Growth-factor-containing nanoparticles accelerate healing of chronic wounds

Massachusetts General Hospital researchers developed nanoparticles containing keratinocyte growth factor that accelerate wound healing in diabetic mice. The fusion protein retained wound-healing properties and efficiently delivered growth factors to deeper tissues.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2011

Astronomers find most distant galaxy candidate yet seen

Astronomers have found the most distant galaxy candidate yet seen, about 13.2 billion light-years away, in ultra-deep imaging data from the Hubble Space Telescope. The study reveals a rapid build-up of early galaxies around 480 million years after the Big Bang, with a tenfold increase in star birth rate over 170 million years.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 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.

'Hidden plumbing' helps slow Greenland ice flow

New research suggests that hotter summers may slow down Greenland ice flow, contrary to previous fears. The internal drainage system of the ice sheet adapts to more melt-water, reducing ice speeds.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2011

New anti-HIV gene therapy makes T-cells resistant to HIV infection

Researchers develop an innovative genetic strategy that transfers a bacterial gene into CD4+ T-cells, making them resistant to HIV infection. The MazF protein destroys gene transcripts, preventing protein synthesis and effectively blocking HIV replication.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJan 26, 2011

Hardware, software advances help protect operating systems from attack

A new system developed by researchers at North Carolina State University utilizes hardware and software advances to restore an operating system if it is attacked. The system includes attack detection, security fault isolation, and recovery mechanisms to prevent attackers from gaining control of the OS.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJan 26, 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.

First study of dispersants in Gulf spill suggests a prolonged deepwater fate

A recent study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists found that a major component of the dispersant used in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill remained intact in an oil-gas-laden plume three months after application. The study's results raise questions about the potential toxic effects of deep-water residue on marine life and...

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 26, 2011

Highly interactive training helps workers in dangerous jobs avoid deadly mistakes

Researchers analyzed 40 years of safety training studies to find that highly interactive training is most effective for improving safe work behavior in hazardous jobs. Less engaging training can also be effective when the risk of death or injury is low, according to the American Psychological Association.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateJan 26, 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.

Gender and hygiene: Could cleanliness be hurting girls?

Researcher Sharyn Clough suggests that societal expectations of cleanliness may contribute to higher rates of allergies, asthma, and autoimmune disorders in adult women. By examining the impact of hygiene on health through a gender lens, Clough proposes new ways of understanding the 'hygiene hypothesis'.

SourceOregon State University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateJan 26, 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.

If you knew Susie -- the sequence of the orangutan genome

The orangutan genome sequence provides unique insights into human evolution, revealing genetic similarities with a putative ancestral great ape. The study also highlights the importance of conserving genetic diversity in orangutan populations, particularly for the critically endangered Sumatran species.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2011

Secondhand smoke laws may reduce childhood ear infections

Researchers found a significant reduction in middle ear infection cases among children aged 6 and younger, associated with increased smoke-free households. The study suggests that avoiding secondhand smoking at home can protect children from the most common cause of visits to physicians and hospitals.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalTobacco Control·DateJan 26, 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.

Small particles show big promise in beating unpleasant odors

Scientists have developed a new material consisting of copper-coated silica nanoparticles that can eliminate unpleasant odors. These nanoparticles are up to twice as effective as the current gold standard, activated carbon, in removing foul-smelling substances like ethyl mercaptan.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateJan 26, 2011

The undead may influence biodiversity, greenhouse gas emissions

A study published in Nature Reviews: Microbiology examines the cellular mechanisms of microbial dormancy and its implications for ecosystems. Dormant microbes can have a significant impact on biodiversity, carbon emissions, and nutrient cycling, making them a key component of ecosystem resilience.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateJan 26, 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.

Genetic archaeology finds parts of our genome more closely related to orangutans than chimps

A recent study published in Genome Research found that certain regions of the human genome are more similar to those of orangutans than chimpanzees, contrary to previous assumptions. This suggests that humans and orangutans shared a common ancestor with high genetic diversity, while chimpanzees may have experienced a genetic bottleneck.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateJan 26, 2011

First report on fate of underwater dispersants in Deepwater Horizon oil spill

Researchers found DOSS, a dispersant ingredient, concentrated in deepwater plumes at depths up to three-quarters of a mile after the spill; it was detected over 200 miles from the well two months later. The study's findings are inconclusive on the effectiveness of dispersants in breaking up oil coming out of the wellhead.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 26, 2011

Brain 'GPS' illuminated in migratory monarch butterflies

Researchers have identified a complex brain navigation system in migrating monarch butterflies that integrates internal compass, sun compass, and skylight cues to guide their long-distance migrations. The study reveals the integration of seemingly contradictory signals into a consistent neural representation of the environment.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJan 26, 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.

Course correction needed for Alzheimer's therapies, experts warn

Researchers are calling for a shift in focus towards prevention, but current therapies targeting brain plaques may be less effective in patients already experiencing symptoms. Developing biomarkers to identify pre-symptomatic volunteers could help test Alzheimer's drugs more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNeuron·DateJan 26, 2011

RIC study suggests researchers are entering a new era of advances in brain research

Advances in recording technology and data analysis are set to revolutionize brain research, enabling better understanding of the brain's functional principles. Researchers at RIC have found that the number of simultaneously recorded single neurons has grown exponentially since the 1950s, doubling approximately every seven years.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 26, 2011

Mount Sinai researchers identify potential therapeutic target for improving long-term memory

Mount Sinai researchers have identified insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) as a potential therapeutic target for enhancing long-term memory and preventing its loss. IGF-II, a gene expressed during brain development that declines with aging, was found to improve long-term memory in rats by promoting stable LTP.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 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.

Data point to role of cellular bioenergetics as a new mechanistic approach to treat immune disorders

Researchers demonstrate the role of cellular bioenergetics in selectively inhibiting pathogenic lymphocytes while preserving normal immune function. Lycera's prototype compound Bz-423 induces selective apoptosis of alloreactive donor T cells, reversing graft-versus-host disease and improving survival in mice.

SourcePure Communications Inc.·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 26, 2011

Megalomaniac CEOs: Good or bad for company performance?

A study published in the Journal of Management Studies found that dominant CEOs can drive companies to extremes of performance. However, a strong board of directors can mitigate this effect and improve company performance. Companies with powerful boards tend to have better outcomes than those without them.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Management Studies·DateJan 26, 2011

Getting more anti-cancer medicine into the blood

Scientists successfully applied home device technology to increase solubility of anticancer drugs like tamoxifen and paclitaxel. The process has potential for improving performance of dyes, paints, rust-proofing agents and other products.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateJan 26, 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.

Membrane molecule keeps nerve impulses hopping

Researchers have identified a key molecular mechanism in nerve fibers that ensures rapid conductance of nervous system impulses. The myelin sheath, which acts as an insulating membrane, allows electrical impulses to hop from one node to the next along the axon.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNeuron·DateJan 26, 2011

Infiltrating cancer's recruitment center

A Tel Aviv University researcher has found that fibroblasts, a type of connective tissue cell, can be coerced into supporting inflammation and tumor growth. This discovery opens new avenues for drug research and may help manage inflammation to reduce cancer growth.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 26, 2011

Food-borne bacteria causes potentially fatal heart infection

A study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that certain strains of Listeria monocytogenes can invade the heart, leading to serious and difficult-to-treat cardiac infections. The bacteria display modified proteins that enable easier entry into cardiac cells, making them a new target for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology·DateJan 26, 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.

Agave fuels global excitement as a bioenergy crop

Two Agave species have yielded significantly more than other biofuel crops in independent studies, making them a promising alternative for global energy needs. The crop's potential to thrive in semi-arid regions without significant land demands offers a sustainable and environmentally-friendly production method.

SourceWiley·JournalGCB Bioenergy·DateJan 26, 2011

LSU's Mark Batzer decodes orangutan genome

A groundbreaking study led by LSU's Mark Batzer has decoded the orangutan genome, revealing unexpected insights into its evolution and genetic diversity. The research found that two distinct orangutan species exist, with one species having limited genetic diversity due to a condensed habitat.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 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.

2011 Louis-Jeantet Prize for Medicine

Stefan Jentsch receives prize for discovery of ubiquitin's role in genome maintenance and DNA repair, while Edvard and May-Britt Moser win for grid cells discovery that enables spatial navigation and memory.

SourceEMBO·DateJan 26, 2011

The production of plant pollen is regulated by several signaling pathways

Researchers found that three signaling pathways work together to regulate plant pollen production, with two being sufficient for optimal fertility. The study sheds light on the complex interactions between genes and environmental conditions that influence flower formation and reproductive success.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJan 26, 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.

First pediatric surgical quality program shows potential to measure children's outcomes

A new quality improvement program for pediatric surgery has shown promise in identifying reasons for complications and implementing improvements to reduce mortality rates and post-operative complications. The program, based on the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, uses data to target specific p...

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJan 26, 2011

Non-alcoholic energy drinks may pose 'high' health risks

Researchers warn of potential health dangers from mixing energy drinks with alcohol, citing concerns over caffeine intake and increased risk of alcohol-related consequences. Experts advocate for regulatory changes, education, and manufacturer warnings to mitigate these risks.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJAMA·DateJan 26, 2011