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Science News for March 17, 2011


Buying a new product: When is it better to ask a novice rather than an expert?

Experts have difficulty recalling product features, especially when explaining their logic, according to a study. Novices do not have prior knowledge that can confuse actual recall with other information stored in memory. As a result, novices may outperform experts in product comparisons.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2011

Versatile vitamin A plays multiple roles in the immune system

Research reveals vitamin A's dual role in immune response, producing regulatory T cells to dampen inflammation while stimulating pro-inflammatory responses to combat infection. The study highlights the importance of nutritional status in regulating the immune system.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateMar 17, 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.

Green sludge can protect groundwater from radioactive contamination

Green rust, a type of clay, has been found to effectively capture and contain neptunium, a radioactive waste product that poses a serious health risk. The discovery offers new insights into the disposal of radioactive waste and could lead to safer storage solutions.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateMar 17, 2011

How do consumers estimate a good time?

A new study found that consumers' predicted consumption time is influenced by their assessment of the experience and its representation. Breaking down pleasurable events into subactivities increases expected time spent, while unpacking unpleasant events decreases it.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2011

Production of mustard oils: On the origin of an enzyme

Researchers isolated an enzyme from Arabidopsis thaliana that catalyzes glucosinolate formation and found it resembles an enzyme involved in leucine synthesis. This structural similarity enabled the plant to produce toxic compounds as a defense mechanism, highlighting the importance of small genetic changes in evolutionary adaptations.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 17, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Getting healthy: When does prediction help people change their habits?

Researchers found that asking participants to predict their future behavior breaks their habits, but this only works for behaviors with strong personal goals. For behaviors without personal norms, predicting the past behavior reinforces existing habits.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2011

Mandibular changes produced by skeletal anchorage assisted orthopedic traction

This study evaluated three-dimensional changes in the mandible and glenoid fossa of skeletal Class III patients treated with bone-anchored maxillary protraction. The results showed posterior displacement of the mandible and remodeling of the glenoid fossa, suggesting a favorable control of mandibular growth.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2011

Johns Hopkins team creates stem cells from schizophrenia patients

Researchers create induced pluripotent stem cells from adult siblings with schizophrenia and DISC1 gene mutation, providing a potential tool for screening treatments and understanding the disease. The stem cells can be coaxed to become brain cells like neurons, offering new insights into the causes of major mental illnesses.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 17, 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.

Want more zest for life? Consider gardening!

Older adults who garden report enhanced optimism, increased physical activity, and higher energy levels compared to nongardeners. Gardening also promotes healthier lifestyles through increased consumption of fruit and vegetables.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

New plant species gives insights into evolution

Scientists discovered that the new plant species Tragopogon miscellus has relaxed gene expression control in its earliest generations, allowing it to rapidly adapt. After 80 years of evolution, different patterns of gene expression are now found in every plant, offering new ideas for agriculture.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 17, 2011

Self-administered light therapy may improve cognitive function after traumatic brain injury

A new study found that daily application of light therapy via LEDs on the forehead and scalp improved cognitive function in patients with traumatic brain injury. The treatment led to substantial improvements in memory, inhibition, and attention, enabling one patient to return to full-time work.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPhotomedicine and Laser Surgery·DateMar 17, 2011

Study provides new tool to monitor coral reef 'vital signs'

A new study provides a new tool to monitor coral reef vital signs, allowing scientists to assess the impacts of climate change and other threats on coral reef health. By measuring biological productivity, researchers can better understand the balance between coral production and consumption rates.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 17, 2011

Fuz is essential for craniofacial and tooth development

Researchers found that Fuz plays a crucial role in regulating craniofacial development, with defects leading to severe deformities. The study also highlights the importance of Fuz in negative feedback loops of canonical Wnt signaling.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 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.

Integrating instructional multimedia in nursery management, production courses

A survey found that most respondents supported using multimedia resources, such as instructional DVDs and web-based videos, to supplement instruction in nursery management and production courses. The study also revealed a willingness among faculty to incorporate these resources into classroom instruction.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

What does signing your name mean in the marketplace?

A new study finds that signing one's name can increase engagement among consumers who strongly identify with a product category, leading to more purchases. However, it has the opposite effect on those who don't identify strongly, reducing time spent in stores and fewer shoe tries.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2011

Corn gluten meal tested on squash survival, yields

Researchers tested corn gluten meal on direct-seeded squash and found that banded applications increased crop safety and yields. The study suggests that CGM can be a safe alternative to traditional herbicides for organic vegetable production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

Smart phones not replacing other media for news access -- at least yet

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that mobile media technologies like smart phones are not taking people away from relying on traditional media sources. Instead, mobile media fill the spaces in people's daily routine where other media sources are either unavailable or inconvenient to use.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNew Media & Society·DateMar 17, 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.

New research tool targets microRNA expression in zebrafish

Researchers have developed a novel method for measuring microRNA expression in specific tissues of developing zebrafish embryos. This technique uses digoxigenin-labeled riboprobes for in situ hybridization, enabling the study of miRNA's role in embryonic development and disease mechanisms.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalZebrafish·DateMar 17, 2011

Novel approaches to bacterial caries management: An efficacious solution in view?

A symposium at the International Association for Dental Research conference will present cutting-edge technologies to minimize caries damage and potentially eradicate caries disease. High-level evidence supporting new approaches will be discussed, including their potential effects on future healthcare costs.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 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.

Cranky? On a diet? How self-control leads to anger

Research suggests people who exert self-control are drawn to aggressive art and public policy appeals, leading to increased irritability and quickness to anger. This is contrary to messages that promote behavioral change, which can be perceived as controlling.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2011

Solar greenhouses: China's winning solution to global energy crisis

China's solar greenhouses use southern-facing designs to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. The study found that these greenhouses can produce a wide range of vegetables, even during winter months, providing a sustainable solution to the global energy crisis.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

Optimizing yield and fruit size of figs

Researchers found that varying shoot lengths can maximize fig fruit yield and quality, but some cultivars require differential application of horticultural practices to attain regular high yields. The study provides recommendations for optimal shoot lengths and pruning strategies for three fig cultivars.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 17, 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.

Human prejudice has ancient evolutionary roots

A new study led by Yale researchers found that monkeys treat individuals from outside their groups with suspicion, similar to human behavior. The findings suggest that the roots of human intergroup conflict may be evolutionarily quite ancient, dating back at least 25 million years.

SourceYale University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMar 17, 2011

New software calculates heating costs in greenhouse operations

A new software system called Virtual Grower helps calculate heating costs in greenhouse operations by analyzing temperature settings, heating systems, and construction decisions. The program uses a weather database to predict heating costs and allows users to define unique design characteristics and heating schedules.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

Experimental philosophy opens new avenues into old questions

Experimental philosophy offers a new perspective on the debate over free will and determinism, testing whether our decisions are influenced by causal chains or our own agency. Researchers have found that young children and adults exhibit conflicting responses to scenarios involving free will and moral responsibility.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 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.

Life expectancy rising in UK and Europe despite obesity epidemic

Life expectancy is increasing in the UK and Europe, driven by declines in cardiovascular disease deaths. However, the East-West gap remains entrenched, and many questions about the drivers of these trends remain unanswered.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateMar 17, 2011

Neuropsychological treatment reduces after-effects in patients with acquired brain injury

Researchers at the University of Granada have found that early neuropsychological rehabilitation significantly reduces cognitive, emotional, and behavioral after-effects in patients with acquired brain injury. The study proves that treating cognitive, emotional, and behavioral skills simultaneously improves patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalArchives of Clinical Neuropsychology·DateMar 17, 2011

Upgrading the vanadium redox battery

Researchers have improved the performance of vanadium redox batteries by modifying their electrolyte solution, increasing energy storage capacity by 70 percent. The upgraded battery can now operate in a wider temperature range and reduce cooling costs, making it more suitable for grid reliability and renewable power sources.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMar 17, 2011

Daily home dialysis makes 'restless legs' better

A study found that daily home hemodialysis significantly improved restless legs syndrome (RLS) symptoms and sleep disturbances in dialysis patients. The treatment reduced RLS-related symptoms by over 12 months, leading to lasting improvements.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 17, 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.

Horticulture students link problem-solving to employment

A study found that horticulture students prefer finding the right answer over developing a strategy, but still value problem-solving as an important skill. The researchers developed an online learning platform, PSLP, which improved student engagement and understanding of ill-structured problems.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

Are the wealthiest countries the smartest countries?

A study published in Psychological Science analyzed test scores from 90 countries, finding a significant correlation between intelligence and economic strength. The researchers discovered that even small increases in cognitive ability among the smartest 5 percent of the population can result in substantial gains in GDP.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 17, 2011

New targeted drug helps smokers stub it out

Researchers at the Academy of Finland have developed a new targeted drug that slows down nicotine metabolism, aiming to aid in smoking reduction therapy. The drug inhibits the CYP2A6 enzyme, which metabolizes nicotine, and is being explored as a potential alternative to traditional anti-smoking treatments.

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateMar 17, 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.

ATS issues joint statement on the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

The American Thoracic Society has released updated guidelines for diagnosing and managing idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic and progressive lung disease. The new guidelines emphasize evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis, pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies, and palliative care.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 17, 2011

Study indicates vitamin A plays key role in the human body

A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry suggests that vitamin A plays a more direct role than previously believed in various physiological functions. The study found that vitamin A itself is active in activating nuclear receptor TR4, which plays roles in sperm cell production, lipid regulation, and central nervo...

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 17, 2011

Liquid biomaterials take stem cell therapy to new level

Researchers at the University of Bristol are developing biologically-engineered synthetic liquid polymers to create a permanent solution for cartilage defects. The injectable gel can form three-dimensional scaffolds that encourage healthy cell growth and tissue repair.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMar 17, 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.

Sealing manifest occlusal caries in permanent teeth -- 2.5-year results

A study of 523 patients aged 6-17 years found that non-operative sealing of manifest occlusal caries lesions resulted in a significant reduction in caries progression and improvement in tooth health. The results indicate the possibility of extending the criteria for non-operative sealing, but further observation is needed.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2011

Dr. Daniel Von Hoff presented with top genomics award from Scripps

Dr. Von Hoff's research and clinical work advance personalized cancer treatment by analyzing patients' DNA sequences to determine the best course of treatment. His work has improved patient outcomes and paved the way for individualized healthcare based on genetic factors.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateMar 17, 2011

Tiny 'on-chip detectors' count individual photons

Researchers have successfully integrated tiny detectors called single-photon avalanche diodes (SPAD) onto computer chips, allowing for the detection of individual photons. These detectors have extremely low noise levels, making them ideal for measuring fluorescence in biological imaging applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 17, 2011

Chemical-free pest management cuts rice waste

A collaborative EUREKA project developed an integrated pest management system, reducing rice waste by over 95% through sustainable technologies. The system uses electronic insect traps, aeration, and modified atmosphere to protect rice during storage, improving quality and food security.

SourceEUREKA·DateMar 17, 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.

A new evolutionary history of primates

A new evolutionary history of primates reveals complex patterns of species divergence and gene sequence evolution. The analysis provides a validated framework for understanding human adaptation and disease, and sheds light on zoonoses and primate conservation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 17, 2011

Cassini spacecraft observes seasonal rains on Titan

The Cassini spacecraft has observed methane rain on Titan's equatorial deserts, revealing the first current evidence of rain soaking Titan's surface at low latitudes. This finding suggests that recent weather on Titan is similar to Earth's tropical regions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2011

Today's children do engage in active play

Research suggests that actively engaging children in leisure time can boost their physical activity levels. However, the study found that boys and girls have different preferences for active play due to societal pressures. The researchers also noted that boys tend to have more freedom to roam during active play.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMar 17, 2011

AGU journal highlights -- March 17, 2011

Researchers discover unique ocean current rings off Brazil's coast, with properties including size, speed, depth, and rotation velocity. Additionally, scientists capture detailed profiles of ice water content in the Martian near-surface atmosphere, revealing thickest concentrations at 50 meters above the surface.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 17, 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.

Enzyme can steer cells or possibly stop them in their tracks

A study by Albert Einstein College of Medicine researchers found that an enzyme family, katanin, regulates cell motility. Treating this enzyme can encourage cells to migrate in a particular direction to heal wounds. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic agents for conditions like diabetic ulcers and metastatic cancer.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 17, 2011

Product choice: Why do consumers misestimate their abilities?

A study found that people overestimate their abilities relative to others and underestimate for difficult tasks. This phenomenon affects product choices as consumers consider their relative position in the market.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 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.

Researchers discover possible biomarker and therapeutic target for melanoma

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified Neuropilin-2 as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for melanoma. The novel cell screening method clarifies the process behind tumor metastasis and may allow the identification of biomarkers for other aggressive cancers.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 17, 2011

$3.4 million grant awarded to help older people stay mobile

Researchers will recruit 450 people age 70 and older for a five-year study to identify cognitive factors that influence mobility. The study aims to reveal specific abilities and brain structures that correlate with mobility problems, with the goal of preventing mobility decline and disability.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2011

Studies on heart disease and stroke prevention overlook ethnic groups: Study

Researchers found that only 1 in 4 studies reported on participant ethnicity, with most being superficial in scope. The study highlights the importance of considering ethnicity when conducting research on heart disease and stroke prevention to target prevention strategies effectively.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalGlobal Journal on Quality and Safety in Healthcare·DateMar 17, 2011

Recycling perlite: New, improved method saves resources

A new method for recycling perlite developed by Louisiana State University researcher Hanna Y. Hanna can save tomato growers a significant amount of money without reducing crop yield. The method, which uses hot water treatment and minimal labor input, reduces recycling cost by up to 50%.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 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.

Gardening linked to increased vegetable consumption in older adults

A new study suggests that gardening programs can boost vegetable intake among older adults, with no correlation between time spent gardening and consumption. The research found that gardeners were more likely to consume vegetables than non-gardeners, regardless of age or ability.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

Max Planck researchers urge more prominent role for zoos

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research propose targeted captive breeding programmes to supplement wild animal protection. The study reveals that up to 25% of endangered mammal species and 20-25% of bird species are kept in zoos, with specialist zoos showing greater breeding success.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 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 finds more efficient means of creating, arranging carbon nanofibers

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new method for creating uniform carbon nanofibers, which could enable precise scientific measurement tools and medical imaging devices. The technique uses nickel nanoparticles coated with ligand shells to grow carbon nanofibers of specific sizes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 17, 2011