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Science News for November 1, 2011


Researchers roll out a new form of lighting

Researchers have created thin, flexible sheets of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) using a low-cost 'roll-to-roll' printing process. This technology could revolutionize lighting by being used for everything from home and office tiles to windows that simulate sunrise and sunset.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateNov 1, 2011

Roads are detrimental to Europe's protected bats, new study finds

A new study by the University of Leeds reveals that major roads have a detrimental impact on bat populations, reducing activity and diversity. The research shows a strong correlation between distance from the road and bat activity, highlighting the need for effective mitigation measures to protect these protected species.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateNov 1, 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.

Vitamin D study suggests no mortality benefit for older women

A new study led by Brown University found that vitamin D does not confer benefits against mortality in postmenopausal women, contrary to previous beliefs. The study controlled for key health factors like abdominal obesity and found no association between high or low levels of vitamin D and reduced risk of death.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 1, 2011

'Protein microarrays' may reveal new weapons against malaria

A new research technology is screening human blood serum samples for immunity to malaria-causing Plasmodium falciparum parasite proteins. Researchers found that young children are more vulnerable to malaria due to limited immunity to various protein variants.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateNov 1, 2011

Digital media a factor in ferocity of political campaigns

A University of Missouri study finds that digital media is segmenting people into polarized interest groups, leading to nastier politics. Researcher Ben Warner recommends a balanced approach to information seeking to restore civility to political discourse.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAtlantic Journal of Communication·DateNov 1, 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.

Team discovers how a cancer-causing bacterium spurs cell death

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals how Helicobacter pylori bacteria disrupts mitochondrial function to induce cell death. The researchers found that the bacterial toxin VacA recruits a host protein to activate apoptosis, a process linked to cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2011

Starving prostate cancer

Researchers at Centenary Institute found prostate cancer cells have more pumps than normal, allowing them to take in leucine and outgrow normal cells. Disrupting these pumps slowed cancer growth by as much as 50%, offering hope for a treatment that slows tumor growth without surgical removal.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 1, 2011

Physical activity reduces the effect of the 'obesity gene'

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that physical activity can substantially reduce the effect of the FTO gene on obesity risk. The research, which analyzed data from over 218,000 adults, showed that individuals who were physically active had a nearly 30% weaker association with the FTO gene compared to those who were inactive.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 1, 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.

JCI online early table of contents: November 1, 2011

Scientists discover a possible therapy for hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 1, reversing toxic molecule accumulation in mice. Additionally, researchers design minihepcidins to reduce iron overload by mimicking the natural protein's ability to lower blood iron levels.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2011

Growing without cell division

Researchers at the University of North Carolina Health Care have identified the regulatory mechanism behind cell polyploidy, a phenomenon observed in plants and insects. The discovery may lead to new insights into liver regeneration and disease treatment.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2011

Radiologists: Going green with small, simple step

Researchers found that shutting down radiology workstations and monitors after an 8-hour shift can save substantial energy and costs. By doing so, they reduced their energy consumption by 76.3% and saved $9,225.33, mainly due to the shutdown of standby equipment.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateNov 1, 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.

Radiologists, primary users of non-cardiac ultrasound

A nationwide study found that radiologists performed 55% of non-cardiac ultrasound studies in 2009, while non-radiologists accounted for 41%. The role of radiologists in non-cardiac ultrasound is strong but may be impacted by miniaturization of ultrasound equipment

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateNov 1, 2011

Preterm birth rate shows three year improvement in most states

The US preterm birth rate has improved by nearly 5% between 2006 and 2009, with 40,000 more babies receiving a healthy start in life. This improvement is attributed to various health interventions and treatments, including progesterone, which have reduced medically unnecessary c-sections and inductions.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·DateNov 1, 2011

Lessons to learn from community land ownership in Scotland

Community land ownership in Scotland has been found to stimulate businesses, affordable housing, and infrastructure projects, bringing new people and increasing employment. Local decision-making is crucial for building resilience, with communities able to overcome challenges through their own resources or external connections.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateNov 1, 2011

Age no longer a barrier to stem cell transplantation for older patients

Patients aged 60-75 who received the mini-transplant experienced comparable survival rates across three age groups, with increased comorbidities and cancer aggressiveness affecting outcomes. The five-year survival rate was 35% for overall and 32% for disease-progression free

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateNov 1, 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.

Cellular repair could reduce premature aging

A study led by Durham University has identified a potential drug therapy for premature ageing diseases, including Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome. The treatment, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), controlled oxidative stress and DNA damage in cells, suggesting a possible model for understanding processes that cause us to age.

SourceDurham University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateNov 1, 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.

Switching senses

Researchers at Caltech found that leeches rely on two distinct methods to detect prey: hairs detecting water disturbances and simple eyes picking up passing shadows. In adulthood, the preference shifts to using water disturbances alone.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateNov 1, 2011

Crowdsourcing nutrition in a snap

PlateMate's calorie estimates have proved accurate like those of trained nutritionists and more so than users' logs. The research was presented at the 24th ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology, a leading conference on human-computer interaction.

SourceHarvard University·DateNov 1, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

4 projects target cystic fibrosis with Hunt for a Cure funds

Four Michigan State University researchers are working on new projects to combat cystic fibrosis, using funds from the $110,000 grant from Hunt for a Cure. The studies aim to develop new treatments and prevent bacterial infections, with a focus on understanding the role of molecules, genes, and biofilms in the disease.

SourceMichigan State University·DateNov 1, 2011

Digging up clues: Research on buried blow flies to help crime scene investigators

New research from NC State University sheds light on how blow flies survive when buried underground during their development. The study found that blow flies can survive burial and provides additional information for murder investigations, helping forensic entomologists determine body burial times and potential relocations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalForensic Science International·DateNov 1, 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.

Drying intensifying wildfires, carbon release ninefold, study finds

A new study by University of Guelph professor Merritt Turetsky and colleagues found that draining northern wetlands leads to severe peatland wildfires, releasing nine times as much carbon into the atmosphere. This discovery highlights the importance of cumulative impacts on peatland ecosystems and their role in the global carbon cycle.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2011

Crop sensors outdo farmers at choosing nitrogen rates

Crop sensors outperformed farmers in choosing nitrogen rates for corn fields, resulting in average yield increases of almost 2 bushels per acre. The technology reduced excess N applied by 25% without harming yields, offering a potential solution to environmental concerns about fertilizer pollution.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateNov 1, 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.

Catch the fever: It'll help you fight off infection

A recent study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology found that mild fever-range hyperthermia enhances the generation and differentiation of CD8+ cytotoxic T-cells, which can destroy virus-infected cells and tumor cells.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 1, 2011

Lessons from the Christchurch, New Zealand earthquake

The Christchurch earthquake ruptured a previously unmapped fault, causing widespread liquefaction-induced damage. Eight papers focus on structural and geotechnical damages associated with strong ground motion shaking.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateNov 1, 2011

Many radiologists disagree on management of incidental findings, study finds

A recent study by the American College of Radiology found that many radiologists disagree on managing incidental findings on body computed tomography (CT) scans. Despite advances in CT resolution and increasing utilization, published guidelines are still emerging, leading to a lack of agreement among radiologists.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateNov 1, 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.

Toronto-based genomics center gets $5 million injection

The Ontario Genomics Institute's Toronto Centre of Genomic Services (TCAG) has received a $5 million injection to continue providing cutting-edge genomic services. Led by Dr. Stephen Scherer, TCAG supports over 1,600 labs worldwide in various disciplines.

SourceOntario Genomics Institute·DateNov 1, 2011

Acinetobacter baumannii found growing in nearly half of infected patient rooms

A study found that environmental growth of Acinetobacter baumannii was detected in 48% of patient rooms, with surfaces like supply cart handles and floors being most commonly contaminated. Patients with recent or remote MDR-AB colonization or infection showed similar levels of environmental contamination.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateNov 1, 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.

Structure, not scientists to blame for Los Alamos failings

The article reveals how Los Alamos' decline is linked to misguided policies and mismanagement, rather than a culture of arrogance. The lab's scientists faced harsh conditions, including polygraph tests and shutdowns, after media scrutiny of one individual's actions was misconstrued as institutional failure.

SourceSAGE·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateNov 1, 2011

Shorter hospital stay with person-centered healthcare

A person-centered approach to healthcare significantly shortens hospital stays by up to one-third while enhancing daily functional capacity. However, the study highlights difficulties in adopting this model due to rigid healthcare structures.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 1, 2011

Plant researchers locate transporter used for nicotine metabolism

Scientists at Virginia Tech and Purdue University have identified a distinct transporter, NUP1, used by tobacco plant cells for nicotine metabolism. This discovery provides new insight into the production of medicinal alkaloid compounds and could enable bioengineering of medicinal plants to produce optimal amounts.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2011

Potential treatment for iron overload disorders

Researchers at UCLA have developed a promising new treatment for iron overload disorders using minihepcidin peptides, which mimic the natural protein hepcidin to lower iron levels in the blood. The study provides hope for individuals affected by hereditary hemochromatosis and beta-thalassemia.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2011

New iPhone app keeps eyesight from deteriorating

A new iPhone application called GlassesOff uses brain training to delay the need for reading glasses by translating blurry images into clear ones. Users can read two lines lower on an eye-test chart after just 40 uses of the app, according to trials with average age users.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateNov 1, 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.

Possible therapy for one form of inherited nerve dysfunction

Researchers have identified a potential oral therapy for HSAN1, an inherited nerve dysfunction characterized by progressive muscle control loss. Oral administration of L-serine reversed deoxysphingolipid accumulation and reduced neuropathy severity in mice and humans with the disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2011

National Academy of Sciences awards Gamedesk $225,000 grant to develop science-based interactive game for classrooms

The National Academy of Sciences has awarded a $225,000 grant to GameDesk to develop an interactive game that engages students physically and mentally in difficult science topics. The Science in Motion project aims to create educational geoscience games that support students' comprehension of cause-and-effect relationships.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateNov 1, 2011

Acute kidney injury in hospitalized diabetic patients linked to chronic kidney disease

A study published in Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that hospitalized diabetic patients who experience acute kidney injury are at a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease. The research followed 4,082 patients with diabetes over 10 years, revealing that multiple episodes of acute kidney injury inc...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 1, 2011

Poor sleep quality in first, third trimesters linked to preterm births

Research shows poor sleep quality during pregnancy increases risk of preterm birth. Early intervention through improved sleep habits may help reduce this risk. The study's findings highlight the importance of addressing sleep disruptions during critical pregnancy periods.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateNov 1, 2011

New drug shows promise against multiple sclerosis

The study found that Ocrelizumab led to a 89% reduction in brain lesions and reduced the number of new multiple sclerosis attacks over 24 weeks. This suggests targeting B cells could help treat MS.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 1, 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.

Hippocampus plays bigger memory role than previously thought

Researchers at UC San Diego used functional magnetic resonance imaging to assess how memories are formed and compared recollected and familiar items. The data showed that the hippocampus is actively involved in both strong recollections and familiarities, challenging earlier assumptions about their separate functions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateNov 1, 2011

Health risk from eating well-done meat may be underestimated

Researchers used genetically modified mice with human-like enzymes to assess the health risks of food mutagens from well-done meat and fish. The results showed a significant increase in intestinal tumors after consuming substances from meat crust, highlighting the need for better models to predict human health effects.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalMolecular Carcinogenesis·DateNov 1, 2011

Could social media be used to detect disease outbreaks?

Researchers used Twitter data to track flu-like illness rates in UK regions and detected emerging epidemics. The study gathered over 50 million geo-located tweets and applied machine learning algorithms to identify keywords associated with elevated flu severity.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalACM Transactions on Intelligent Systems and Technology·DateNov 1, 2011

Bisexual men: When sexual health requires stealth

A recent study by Indiana University researchers found that bisexual men often feel uncomfortable accessing sexual health services due to fear of disclosure and stigma. A more general approach, framed as 'men's health' or 'men's sexual health,' is likely to be more effective in reaching these individuals.

SourceIndiana University·DateNov 1, 2011

MIT: New algorithm could substantially speed up MRI scans

A new algorithm developed at MIT's Research Laboratory of Electronics can dramatically speed up MRI scans, cutting the time patients spend in the machine from 45 to 15 minutes. The algorithm uses information gained from the first contrast scan to produce subsequent images, significantly shortening the acquisition time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMagnetic Resonance in Medicine·DateNov 1, 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.

DIY screening could save lives of women who cannot access smear test

A new DIY screen for cervical cancer has been shown to be highly effective at detecting the disease in women who cannot access a traditional smear test. The test picked up over four times as many cases of cervical cancer and three times as many pre-cancerous conditions, with higher uptake among women compared to traditional screening.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 1, 2011

More radionuclide therapy is better for prostate cancer patients

Research shows that repeated administrations of radionuclide therapy with 188Re-HEDP improve overall survival rates, reducing pain in prostate cancer patients with hormone-refractory bone metastases. The study found significant increases in post-treatment survival for patients receiving two or three therapies.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateNov 1, 2011

Novel technique switches triple-negative breast cancer cells to hormone-receptor positive cells

Researchers found that inhibiting Notch signalling converts triple-negative breast cancer cells into hormone-receptor positive cells, making them dependent on estrogen. This technique has potential for combination therapy, where a Notch inhibitor is used to make all cancer cells hormone-sensitive.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 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.

Pairing up: How chromosomes find each other

Chromosomes use centromeres to initiate synapsis, a process that ensures proper matching of chromosomes during meiosis. This discovery sheds light on a critical step in the complex process of meiosis, which is essential for genetic diversity and reproduction.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 1, 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.

Abnormal oscillation in the brain causes motor deficits in Parkinson's disease

Research at National Institute for Physiological Sciences found abnormal 'oscillatory' electrical signals in subcortical nuclei cause severe motor deficits in Parkinson's disease. Chemical inhibition of the subthalamic nucleus improved motor impairments by reducing oscillations, providing clues for new treatments.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateNov 1, 2011

Conflicting views of a child's behavior problems from parents, teachers, and the child may be helpful to clinician

A new study explores the challenges of making sense of conflicting reports from parents, teachers, and children about a child's behavioral problems. The research reveals that clinicians can benefit from considering these discrepancies as valuable information to improve treatment outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateNov 1, 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.

MIT: Bacteria may readily swap beneficial genes

Researchers found a vast network of recent gene exchange connecting bacteria from around the world, exchanging 10,000 unique genes via horizontal gene transfer. This exchange is linked to human disease and antibiotic resistance, with 60% of transfers including antibiotic-resistance genes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 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.

Hormone in birth control shot linked to memory loss

A study from Arizona State University found that the hormone medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in Depo Provera shots impairs memory in rodents. The researchers also measured GABA's impact on brain function, which may contribute to memory loss.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateNov 1, 2011

Online interactions can lead to risky financial decision-making

A recent study by researchers at Rice University finds that people participating in online communities tend to make riskier financial decisions. This is attributed to the false assumption that fellow community members will come to their aid when needed.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateNov 1, 2011

Researchers pinpoint possible new cause for unexplained miscarriages

Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital have identified a potential new cause for unexplained miscarriages in mice, finding that massive clotting in the placenta can destroy the placenta and block blood flow to the fetus. The study suggests two possible treatments to prevent these miscarriages and has broader implications for heart attac...

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2011

Attacks on federal air pollution regulations dangerous to Americans' health

Efforts to dismantle clean air laws threaten public health, and experts urge physicians to educate Congress on the critical role of regulation in preventing air pollution's negative effects. The Clean Air Act authorizes the EPA to reduce airborne contaminants, and its amendments have been passed with bipartisan support.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateNov 1, 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.

Ready for their close-up

Scientists have developed a technique using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to view proteins tagged with gold nanoparticles in whole, intact cells. This method offers ten times better resolution than optical microscopes and could help study cancer processes and understand how viruses hijack healthy cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 1, 2011

The tangled web in Alzheimer's protein deposits is more complex than once thought

Scientists have discovered that Alzheimer's protein tangles involve at least three different proteins, including neurofilaments and vimentin, in addition to the previously identified tau protein. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of the disease's progression and potential new drug targets.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 1, 2011

Swimming jellyfish may influence global climate

Researchers demonstrate a new technique to study the impact of swimming jellyfish on ocean climate, using Self-Contained Underwater Velocimetry Apparatus (SCUVA) to track water movement. The study suggests that combined ocean life movements could have a significant impact on global climate.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateNov 1, 2011