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Science News for March 8, 2011


3-D tracking of single molecules inside cells

Researchers developed a novel 3D cell imaging method using multifocal plane microscopy to track single molecules in live cells for extended periods. This technique overcomes previous limitations and enables the study of complex spatial-temporal dynamics of protein transport.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 8, 2011
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

IRBs could use pre-clinical data better

Researchers argue that IRBs often neglect reporting and methodological quality in preclinical experiments, leading to inadequate risk-benefit assessments. A proposed solution suggests considering evidence on risks and benefits of agents targeting related biological pathways.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 8, 2011

A more definitive test for a common sexually transmitted infection

A study from Rhode Island Hospital found a new test for Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) to be more accurate, detecting 100% true positives with no false positives. The test was found to be prevalent in women aged 36-45 and 51-60, indicating the need for routine screening for this common sexually transmitted infection.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateMar 8, 2011

Secrets of plague revealed

A new super-resolution microscopy technique reveals changes in protein concentration on human immune cells exposed to E.coli and Y.pestis toxins. This work provides insight into why some bacteria can evade the immune system.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 8, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A novel prognostic marker for biliary atresia

Researchers used DNA microarrays to analyze gene expression in livers from patients with biliary atresia and found a key regulator: RRAS. This gene plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of the disease, making it a potential prognostic biomarker.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 8, 2011

The foundations of empathy are found in the chicken

Researchers at the University of Bristol discovered that domestic hens exhibit a clear physiological and behavioral response to mild chick distress, suggesting an empathic capacity. The study used both behavioral and physiological methods to measure these traits in birds.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMar 8, 2011

The science behind the cape

Physiologist E. Paul Zehr uses Batman as a framework to discuss exercise and physical training, illustrating how the body responds to physical discipline. His approach connects science to popular culture, helping students understand physiology better.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalAJP Advances in Physiology Education·DateMar 8, 2011

How can robots get our attention?

A team of researchers has successfully programmed a robot to understand when it gains a human's attention and when it falls short. Using social cues, the robot achieves close to 80% accuracy in detecting whether someone is paying attention or ignoring it. The findings could pave the way for robots to engage with humans more effectively.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 8, 2011

Laughter really is the best medicine (for leg ulcers)

A five-year study found that traditional nursing care methods, such as compression bandages and support stockings, work just as well as ultrasound therapy in healing venous leg ulcers. Laughter may also play a role in improving blood flow and overall health for patients with these conditions.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateMar 8, 2011
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Malaria's weakest link

Researchers discover that malaria parasite relies on host cell signaling pathways to proliferate. A class of cancer-fighting drugs targeting these pathways can effectively kill the parasite.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 8, 2011

Cleansing the soul by hurting the flesh: The guilt-reducing effect of pain

Researchers found that those primed to think of their own unethical nature subjected themselves to more pain, but experienced reduced feelings of guilt after the painful experience. Pain has been imbued with meaning as punishment, leading to its psychological effect of resolving guilt.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 8, 2011
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Urinary metabolomic profile and gastric cancer

Researchers used gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) technology to study urinary metabolite changes in mice with gastric cancer. The study identified low molecular weight biomarkers that may play a significant role in early diagnosis and screening of metastasis or recurrence.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 8, 2011

Now, the story can be told – how scientists helped ID 'Amerithrax'

Researchers at University of Maryland developed a genetic 'fingerprinting' tool to track down microbial suspects. By analyzing DNA sequences and identifying unique mutations, they helped the FBI link anthrax-laden letters to a specific test tube at Fort Detrick.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2011

Viruses teach researchers how to protect corn from fungal infection

Researchers at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center developed a corn variety resistant to fungal infection using a naturally found killer protein made by a virus. The single gene approach offers hope for effective solutions to control other pathogenic fungi and reduce crop losses.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateMar 8, 2011

Study analyzes role of PARP enzyme in eukaryotes

Researchers analyzed evolutionary history of poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase (PARP) superfamily in eukaryotes, finding ancestral proteins with diverse functions. The study suggests that the PARP superfamily is larger than previously documented and will grow as more eukaryotic genomes become available.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 8, 2011
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New instrument for analyzing viruses

Scientists have developed an instrument called PING that can analyze thousands of potential interactions between viruses and human cells. This device detects molecular interactions at a sensitivity 100- to 1,000-time greater than current methods, making it a promising tool for finding new treatments for viral infections.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 8, 2011

UNC study finds oral tongue cancer increasing in young, white females

A UNC study found a significant increase in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma among young white females, with incidence rates rising by 111% between 1975 and 2007. The researchers suggest that the epidemiology of this cancer may be unique and not associated with human papillomavirus or tobacco/alcohol use.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 8, 2011
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Migrating moths and songbirds travel at similar rates

Researchers found that night-flying moths match the migration speeds of songbirds, traveling between 30-65 km/h. Moths use favorable tailwinds to aid their journeys, while birds take advantage of winds from various directions.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateMar 8, 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.

Improving risk/benefit estimates in new drug trials

Experts Jonathan Kimmelman and Alex John London argue that researchers predict success of interventions too optimistically in early stages of drug development. They suggest looking at past experiences and minimizing biases to improve estimates.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 8, 2011

The safety of daily magnesium oxide treatment for children with chronic constipation

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that daily magnesium oxide treatment significantly increases serum magnesium concentrations in children with functional constipation. However, the magnitude of the increase appears modest, and younger age may be a relative risk factor for hypermagnesemia.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 8, 2011

How long does a tuning fork ring?

A team from Vienna and Munich has developed a numerical solver to predict the design-limited damping of mechanical resonators, enabling the creation of more efficient devices. The solver uses quantum mechanics to calculate the radiation of phonons from the resonator, removing the need for trial and error prototype fabrication.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2011

ASGE initiative examines real-time endoscopic assessment of the histology of diminutive colorectal polyps

The ASGE has established guidelines for the use of real-time endoscopic assessment in managing diminutive colorectal polyps. The recommendations aim to minimize risk and delay while improving cost effectiveness of colonoscopy. Diminutive polyps are common, but pathological assessment can be costly and delay patient information.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateMar 8, 2011
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Real March Madness is relying on seedings to determine Final 4

A new model developed by Sheldon Jacobson predicts the most likely Final Four combinations based on seedings, rather than team performance. The model suggests that choosing a combination of two top-seeded teams, a No. 2 seed, and a No. 3 seed is the best bet for winning the office pool.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalOmega·DateMar 8, 2011

Roundworm could provide new treatment for sepsis

Researchers have identified a roundworm protein that can suppress systemic inflammation caused by sepsis, providing new potential treatment options. The protein, ES-62, triggers autophagy, a process that clears damage and promotes cell survival during stress situations.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 8, 2011

Making viruses pass for 'safe'

A team of scientists at the University of Pennsylvania has engineered a lentiviral vector that expresses CD47, a protein found on all cells, on its surface. This allows the virus to avoid being detected by the immune system, potentially making it safer for gene therapy and drug delivery.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 8, 2011

Team uncovers dengue fever virus' molecular secrets

A team of researchers has made significant strides in understanding the life cycle of flaviviruses, including the dengue fever virus, which causes viral hemorrhagic fever and affects millions worldwide. The study provides new insights into the molecular details of viral replication and interactions with host cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 8, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

No link between economic growth and child undernutrition rates in India

Despite economic growth, childhood undernutrition rates in India have remained relatively stable, with stunting prevalence decreasing and wasting rates showing minimal change. Direct investments in health interventions are necessary to address this issue, according to a new study published in PLOS Medicine.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 8, 2011
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

MU chemist discovers shortcut for processing drugs

A University of Missouri chemist has discovered a method for manufacturing certain pharmaceutical drugs using pressurized carbon dioxide at room temperature. This new approach could streamline production processes and reduce the need for expensive and time-consuming methods currently used in the industry.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 8, 2011

Internet catches updated butterfly and moth website

The U.S. Geological Survey has launched an updated version of its Butterflies and Moths of North America (BAMONA) website, featuring improved data collection and dissemination technologies. Verified sighting records are now immediately available on the site's home page, allowing for more efficient monitoring of pollinator populations.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateMar 8, 2011
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Vascular brain disorder misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis

Researchers found a delay in detecting CADASIL, a vascular brain disorder, and diagnosed it as multiple sclerosis in some patients. The study suggests that CADASIL often goes misdiagnosed due to similarities with MS in brain MRIs and symptoms.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurology·DateMar 8, 2011

Identifying 'anonymous' email authors

Researchers at Concordia University have developed a novel technique for identifying anonymous email authors with high accuracy. By analyzing unique patterns in a suspect's emails, they can create a 'write-print' that is like a fingerprint, allowing investigators to determine the author's gender, nationality, and education level.

SourceConcordia University·JournalDigital Investigation·DateMar 8, 2011

Brief video training dramatically boosts hands-only CPR attempts

A study by the American Heart Association found that brief video training significantly improves hands-only CPR performance, with over 90% of trained participants attempting CPR in an emergency. The training also showed improved compression rates and depths compared to untrained individuals.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 8, 2011
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Online nutrition courses: Fad or growing trend?

A new study in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that online nutrition education courses can be effective, with students able to gain knowledge and achieve learning outcomes similar to face-to-face learners. However, the study also identified areas for improvement, including the need for more engaging and interactiv...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 8, 2011
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Epilepsy-linked memory losss worries more patients than doctors

A survey of patients with epilepsy found that they ranked memory loss as their second-most important concern, while doctors ranked it 12th. Practitioners were more concerned about unexpected seizures, which was also the top concern for both groups.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEpilepsy & Behavior·DateMar 8, 2011

Curbing cholesterol could help combat infections, study shows

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have discovered a direct link between cholesterol levels and the immune system's response to viral infections. By lowering cholesterol, the body can starve viruses of the nutrients they need to grow, potentially enhancing the immune system's ability to fight off infections.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 8, 2011

Researchers find drug that stops progression of Parkinson's disease in mice

Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have discovered a drug that turns on a protective gene, protecting brain cells from degeneration. The drug, phenylbutyrate, has been shown to prevent the progression of Parkinson's disease in mice and is now being tested in humans.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 8, 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 of 90 animals' thigh bones reveals how they can efficiently carry loads

A study of 90 animal thigh bones reveals how trabeculae lattice structure supports loads in different species, leading to potential development of new, lightweight materials. The research found that trabecular struts vary in geometry depending on animal size, and could be used to create stronger, lighter bodywork for vehicles.

SourceImperial College London·DateMar 8, 2011

Oops -- graphene oxide's solubility disappears in the wash

Researchers found that graphene oxide's solubility is not as expected, with most oxygen content being loosely bound and easily removable by a wash with base. The study reveals that models for graphene oxide structure need revisiting, affecting synthesis and application of chemically modified graphene.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 8, 2011

It's all in a name: 'Global warming' vs. 'climate change'

A University of Michigan study found that more people believe in 'climate change' than 'global warming', with a difference driven by partisan orientation and question wording. Overall, 74% believed climate change was real when referred to as such, while 68% did so when called global warming.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPublic Opinion Quarterly·DateMar 8, 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.

Sleep-deprived people make risky decisions based on too much optimism

A study found that sleep deprivation leads to increased activity in brain regions assessing positive outcomes and decreased activity in those processing negative outcomes. As a result, sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to choose options with potential gains over those with potential losses.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateMar 8, 2011

Big games, close scores lead to more auto fatalities for winning fans

Research from North Carolina State University found that closely contested games result in a significant increase in traffic fatalities, with nail-biter games being the most dangerous. The study, published in Journal of Consumer Research, suggests that competition-induced testosterone may play a role in this increased risk.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 8, 2011
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Boy toddlers need extra help dealing with negative emotions

Research suggests that punishing boys for their negative emotions can lead to increased anxiety and behavior problems. Parents who punish toddlers for becoming angry or scared can hinder their child's ability to regulate and express emotions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSocial Development·DateMar 8, 2011

Study: Receiving work-related communication at home takes greater toll on women

A new study finds that frequent work-related contact at home takes a greater toll on women, who feel guilty about dealing with work issues even when they don't interfere with their family lives. This guilt is linked to the emotional consequences of blurred boundaries between work and family life.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateMar 8, 2011

As we sleep, speedy brain waves boost our ability to learn

Researchers found that bursts of brain waves known as 'sleep spindles' may network between key brain regions to clear a path to learning. This networking helps shift fact-based memories from the hippocampus to the prefrontal cortex, freeing up storage space for new data.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 8, 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.

Study shows no-till's benefits for Pacific Northwest wheat growers

A study by US Department of Agriculture scientists found that no-till production systems can significantly reduce soil erosion and enhance efforts to protect water quality. The research compared runoff, soil erosion, and crop yields in conventional and no-till winter wheat-fallow systems.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateMar 8, 2011

New bowel cancer evidence calls for routine DNA repair test

Researchers found that tumors with defects in DNA repair systems are less likely to recur post-surgery, reducing the need for chemotherapy. The study suggests testing for defective DNA mismatch repair and KRAS gene mutations to guide treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 8, 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.

Research finds open-source software is actually more secure for health care IT

Research by the University of Warwick's Institute for Digital Healthcare and UCL Medical School finds that open-source software can provide higher security and quality through public disclosure and community review. This contradicts the common misconception that open-source software is inherently riskier due to its transparency.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMar 8, 2011