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Science News for June 28, 2011


Fidgeting your way to fitness

Researchers found that increasing incidental physical activity, such as fidgeting at desks or taking short walks, can significantly improve cardiorespiratory fitness. The study, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, highlights the importance of moderate physical activity throughout the day for overall health and wellness.

SourceQueen's University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJun 28, 2011

Analyzing agroforestry management

Scientists developed a conceptual framework to diagnose nutrient and non-nutrient interactions in agroecosystems, increasing yields and reducing environmental costs. The model considers both nutrient and non-nutrient resource effects on growth, such as light conditions and soil moisture content.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJun 28, 2011

Will new drugs block hepatitis C virus in its tracks?

Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a powerful way to suppress hepatitis C by targeting different parts of the virus. Two prototype small molecule drugs, p7 inhibitors, attack the virus in distinct ways, suggesting they could be used together with 'direct-acting' drugs for more effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalHepatology·DateJun 28, 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.

GSA Bulletin highlights: New research posted June 24, 2011

Two studies highlight the relationship between neotectonic activity and rockslide failures, with a third investigation into salinity control on parasequence development in ancient carbonate platforms. Researchers found that rock fracturing due to neotectonic activity is a major conditioning factor for failures, while changes in coastal...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateJun 28, 2011

Silver pen has the write stuff for flexible electronics

Researchers have created a silver pen capable of writing electrical circuits and interconnects on various surfaces, enabling low-cost and disposable electronics. The pen's ink maintains conductivity through multiple bends and folds, allowing for flexible devices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 28, 2011

New measurement important complement to GI

A new measurement called 'glycemic profile' (GP) was developed to complement the existing glycemic index (GI) method. GP takes into account the shape and duration of the blood sugar curve after consuming a meal, providing a more accurate picture of the glucose response.

SourceLund University·JournalNutrition Journal·DateJun 28, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

First joint ESC/EAS guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias

The new guidelines emphasize the importance of comprehensive lipid control, with a focus on lifestyle interventions as the first step. In high-risk patients, targeted treatments such as statins and combination therapies are recommended to achieve optimal LDL cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 28, 2011

Children's hay fever relieved by cellulose power without adverse effects

A new study at the University of Gothenburg found that cellulose powder reduces seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms in children, especially when pollen levels are low to moderate. The treatment has no adverse effects and is suitable for self-care and as a supplement to other treatments.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPediatric Allergy and Immunology·DateJun 28, 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.

Tropical birds return to harvested rainforest areas in Brazil

Researchers tracked bird populations over 25 years in isolated forest fragments and found that many species returned after being thought extinct. The study suggests that local extinction is accompanied by continual recolonization, dependent on habitat size.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 28, 2011

Study shows climate change makes some chemicals more toxic to aquatic life

A Baylor University study reveals that drought conditions make certain chemicals more toxic to fish and other aquatic life by altering the natural pH levels of the water. The researchers found extreme fluctuations in pH levels during record-breaking droughts, coinciding with increased toxicity to aquatic organisms.

SourceBaylor University·JournalIntegrated Environmental Assessment and Management·DateJun 28, 2011

Rockin' tortoises: A 150-year-old new species

A new species of desert tortoise, Gopherus morafkai, has been discovered after 150 years, revealing the existence of a previously unknown population in Arizona and northwestern Mexico. This discovery highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJun 28, 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.

Stepped-up vaccine series for hepatitis B is effective during pregnancy

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found an accelerated hepatitis B vaccination schedule to be effective and well-tolerated in high-risk pregnant women. The study's findings suggest that a shortened 12-week vaccine regimen can provide long-term immunity and is comparable to the standard 6-month adult schedule.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJun 28, 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.

A lack of structure facilitates protein synthesis

Researchers found that the lack of structure on messenger RNA facilitates protein synthesis, even without a Shine-Dalgarno sequence. The absence of secondary structures on these mRNAs makes it easier for ribosomes to access and identify the start codon.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 28, 2011

Hawaiian hotspot variability attributed to small-scale convection

A new study simulates small-scale convection at the base of the Pacific plate to explain the Hawaiian hotspot's complex observations, including secondary volcanism and chemical asymmetry. The findings provide insight into the composition and dynamics of the mantle.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 28, 2011

Landmark editorial denounces 'poor publication practices' in spine research

A landmark editorial in The Spine Journal denounces flawed clinical research in bone growth products and inadequate disclosure of industry relationships. Financial ties between physicians and medical device industries have led to biased and corrupted research, harming patients, according to the editors.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalThe Spine Journal·DateJun 28, 2011

How bumblebees tackle the traveling salesman problem

Research reveals bumblebees use a trade-off strategy to visit high-reward flowers while minimizing travel distance. As they gain experience, individual bees balance both factors to optimize their routes.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateJun 28, 2011

Gene flow may help plants adapt to climate change

A study on gene flow in Sierra Nevada cutleaved monkeyflower found that mixing genes from warmer and cooler elevations improves the plant's ability to thrive in a changing environment. This technique can be used to augment genetic resources for imperiled populations, enabling them to better adapt to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 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.

Does grilling kill E. coli O157:H7?

Researchers applied E. coli O157:H7 to subprimals and found that only 3-4% of the bacteria were transported to the center of the meat after being tenderized. Proper cooking on a commercial gas grill eliminated the microbe, with internal temperatures of 120F, 130F, or 140F killing all remaining cells.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Food Protection·DateJun 28, 2011

Tapping titanium's colorful potential

A cost-effective method for coloring titanium using an electrochemical solution has been developed, enabling over 80 shades of basic colors and crack-free stability. The technology has potential applications in various industries, including healthcare, aviation, and the military.

SourceQueen's University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 28, 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.

New data for linagliptin to be presented at the ADA

New data from the Phase III study confirm linagliptin's efficacy in lowering blood glucose and reducing hypoglycemia risk when added to metformin. The medication also demonstrates cardiovascular safety, with a 54% relative risk reduction for cardiovascular events.

SourceHill & Knowlton·DateJun 28, 2011

Model finds optimal fiber optic network connections 10,000 times more quickly

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a model that can find optimal fiber optic network connections significantly faster and more efficiently. The model breaks down the complex problem into smaller units, allowing for faster design and re-design cycles.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Optical Communications and Networking·DateJun 28, 2011

Innovative partnership advances novel drug candidate to combat sleeping sickness

A boron-based compound has shown safety and efficacy against stage 1 and 2 of the disease, with its oral formulation and short treatment duration promising for patient care. The collaboration between biotechs Anacor Pharmaceuticals and SCYNEXIS Inc., and not-for-profit DNDi, brings hope for a breakthrough in treating sleeping sickness.

SourceBurness·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 28, 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.

Coordinated system helps heart attack patients get treatment faster

Researchers found that a coordinated care system significantly reduced door-in-door-out times for STEMI patients, with median transfer times decreasing from 97 minutes to 58 minutes after implementation. The system improved outcomes and was supported by the American Heart Association's Mission: Lifeline initiative.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 28, 2011

Serum-free cultures help transplanted MSCs improve efficacy

Researchers developed a serum-free culture for mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), increasing cellular growth and enhancing specific differentiation capacities. This breakthrough enables the use of 'off-the-shelf' serum-free media, promoting greater control over cell fate regulation and tissue engineering applications.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Medicine·DateJun 28, 2011

Land use change influences continental water cycle

Research by Ruud van der Ent shows that evaporation from the Amazon forest is responsible for 50% of rainfall in Peru and other surrounding countries. Land use changes such as irrigation, dams, and deforestation can alter evaporation patterns, affecting water resources in distant regions.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJun 28, 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.

Scientists measure body temperature of dinosaurs for the first time

Researchers used a new technique to determine dinosaur body temperatures, finding that sauropod dinosaurs had temperatures similar to those of modern mammals. The study provides insights into dinosaur physiology and suggests alternative explanations for their metabolism and behavior.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJun 28, 2011

Fertility rates affected by global economic crisis

The global economic recession of 2008-09 led to a decline in fertility rates in Europe and the US, ending the first rise in fertility since the 1960s. The study found that specific groups of people, such as young individuals and highly educated women, are less likely to have children during recessions.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateJun 28, 2011

A happy life is a long one for orangutans

Researchers used keeper surveys to assess orangutan happiness, finding it linked to longer lifespan. The study suggests a complex relationship between happiness and health.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·JournalBiology Letters·DateJun 28, 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.

Study shows long-term benefits of breast screening

A recent study shows that regular breast screening with mammography significantly reduces the number of deaths from breast cancer. Over 130,000 women were monitored for nearly three decades, and results indicate that 30% fewer women in the screening group died of breast cancer.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalRadiology·DateJun 28, 2011

CT angiography improves detection of heart disease in African-Americans

Researchers discovered that CT angiography can detect heart disease in African Americans more effectively than calcium scoring, revealing higher levels of non-calcified plaque. The study suggests reevaluating the use of calcium scoring as a screening tool for African Americans.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 28, 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.

Who's happy? How long we look at happy faces is in our genes

A new study has found that variations in the CNR1 gene are associated with longer gaze durations when looking at happy faces. This discovery sheds light on the neural basis of social behavior and may have implications for understanding autism spectrum conditions.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Autism·DateJun 28, 2011

International team explores the stigma surrounding abortion

A team of international researchers is re-examining the concept of abortion stigma, shifting focus from women who've had abortions to a broader context. The study aims to identify constituents, causes, and consequences of abortion stigma, with potential implications for improving access to care and better health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJun 28, 2011

The smell of danger

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a single compound found in carnivore urine that triggers an instinctual avoidance response in mice and rats, providing crucial tools to study the neural circuitry associated with innate behavior. The discovery reveals a key role for volatile chemicals in predator-rodent interactions.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 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.

To walk or not to walk? That is the question

A study of nine cities worldwide reveals that people are less likely to walk when temperatures drop below zero, during heavy rain or excessive snow. In contrast, warmer temperatures and sunshine increase pedestrian traffic.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateJun 28, 2011

Sweating the small stuff: Early adversity, prior depression linked to high sensitivity to stress

A new study suggests that people with early life adversity or prior depressive episodes are more sensitive to later life stress. Individuals who experienced early parental loss or separation and those with a history of depression became depressed following lower levels of life stress than those without these predisposing factors.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateJun 28, 2011

Insight into plant behavior could aid quest for efficient biofuels

Researchers at University of Edinburgh discovered tiny seawater algae's survival strategies, which can aid in developing sustainable crops for biofuels and adapting to changing climates. The alga recycles nitrogen from its own body and absorbs alternative nutrients when food sources are scarce.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Proteomics·DateJun 28, 2011

Student team invents device to cut dialysis risk

A student team at Johns Hopkins University has developed a device to reduce the risk of infection, clotting and narrowing of blood vessels in patients undergoing dialysis. The Hemova Port is an implantable access port that can be easily opened and closed by a technician, reducing the need for frequent site changes.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 28, 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.

SHSU team to evaluate mental health court

A team of researchers at Sam Houston State University will study a new mental health court in Montgomery County, evaluating its effectiveness in reducing recidivism rates and improving life skills. The three-year project aims to assess the program's cost-effectiveness and jail diversion outcomes.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJun 28, 2011

Team approach reduces urinary tract infections in rehab patients

A team of healthcare professionals at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Nebraska implemented a collaborative approach to reduce urinary catheter-associated infections (CAUTIs) by 89%. The initiative, led by an infection preventionist, focused on educating staff and patients on proper care and removing medically unnecessary catheters.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·DateJun 28, 2011

HIV disrupts blood-brain barrier

A recent study found that HIV infection in astrocytes breaks down the blood-brain barrier, leading to cognitive impairment and other neurological complications. The researchers suggest that minute numbers of infected astrocytes can trigger a cascade of signals that open the brain to toxic influences.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJun 28, 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.

Improved stepladder design may decrease injuries

A recent study explores how improved design and user behavior can reduce stepladder accidents. Potential solutions include sturdier platforms, closed tubular sections, and warnings for users to avoid overreaching.

SourceHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society·DateJun 28, 2011

Biocides that attack only insects

Researchers have created biocides with micro-encapsulation that are less toxic to the environment while maintaining effectiveness against airborne insects. The product also shows improved solubility in water and reduced handling difficulties.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental & Analytical Chemistry·DateJun 28, 2011

Splitsville for boron nitride nanotubes

Scientists have developed a technique to mass-produce high-quality boron nitride nanoribbons with uniform lengths and thickness, opening doors for various electronic and magnetic properties. The ribbons display unique edge orientations, such as zigzag or armchair shapes, which are crucial determinants of their properties.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 28, 2011

Study finds mammography screening reduces breast cancer mortality

A large-scale Swedish trial shows that regular mammography screening reduces breast cancer mortality by 30% over seven years. The study's findings confirm the long-term benefits of mammography screening and provide new insights into its impact on breast cancer deaths.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 28, 2011

Mount Sinai researchers develop new gene therapy for heart failure

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine developed a gene therapy called SERCA2a that stabilized or improved cardiac function in people with severe heart failure. Patients receiving the high-dose therapy experienced substantial clinical benefit and significantly reduced cardiovascular hospitalizations.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCirculation·DateJun 28, 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.

Patients treated with sunitinib and sorafenib respond to flu vaccine

Patients treated with sunitinib and sorafenib showed an antibody response comparable to healthy participants, indicating the flu vaccine is safe and effective. This finding has broad implications for patient management beyond targeted therapy.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 28, 2011

Exercise produces positive effects on the intervertebral discs

A study from the University of Gothenburg found that physical exercise stimulates cell proliferation in intervertebral discs, suggesting a potential preventive effect against back pain and disc degeneration. The research team plans to investigate further with this animal model.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·DateJun 28, 2011

Neuroscientists find famous optical illusion surprisingly potent

Researchers found that humans experience the Motion Aftereffect, even with brief background motion, due to neural processes in the brain. The study reveals a rapid motion adaptation that occurs every time we see moving objects, but its purpose remains unknown.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2011

Gene variant increases fatty liver risk and fibrosis progression

A new study found that a specific gene variant, PNPLA3 rs738409, is linked to an increased risk of developing fatty liver and faster fibrosis progression in people with chronic hepatitis C. The study suggests this genetic predictor may also be used as a potential therapeutic target for treating the condition.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateJun 28, 2011

Jackson Pollock, artist and physicist?

A mathematical analysis of Pollock's work highlights his deliberate and calculated approach to natural phenomena. The study reveals that Pollock exploited fluid dynamics to create unique aesthetic effects, blurring the line between art and science.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPhysics Today·DateJun 28, 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.

Mood and experience: Life comes at you

A new study published in Psychological Science reveals that life experiences significantly influence the set points for anxiety and depression. Researchers used a large sample of over 12,000 twins to show that environmental factors have a lasting impact on mood stability.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 28, 2011

Inkjet printing could change the face of solar energy industry

Researchers at Oregon State University have successfully created CIGS solar devices using inkjet printing, reducing raw material waste by 90% and potentially lowering production costs. The new technology has the potential to produce high-performing, rapidly produced, and ultra-low-cost thin film solar electronics.

SourceOregon State University·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·DateJun 28, 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.

Chemical produced in pancreas prevented and reversed diabetes in mice

Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital discovered that GABA injections prevented and reversed Type 1 diabetes in mice by regenerating insulin-producing cells and decreasing the immune system's attack on them. This breakthrough finding offers new avenues for prevention and treatment of Type 1 diabetes.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2011

Alcohol blamed for high suicide rates in Northern Ireland

A new report by University of Manchester researchers highlights the link between alcohol misuse and high suicide rates in Northern Ireland, particularly among young people. The study found that alcohol dependence was a factor in 60% of patient suicides, with mental health patients also struggling with substance misuse.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateJun 28, 2011

Domed dinosaur king of the head butt

Researchers analyzed the heads of pachycephalosaur dinosaurs and compared them to modern animals that engage in head butting. They found that the bony anatomy of pachycephalosaur domes is better at protecting the brain than in any modern head-butting animal.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 28, 2011