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Science News for November 15, 2011


Go ahead, tell me what to buy: Happy consumers like it (most of the time?)

A new study found that people in a good mood tend to use more direct language when thinking of pleasurable goods. Meanwhile, utilitarian consumption like banking and insurance is met with polite language, leading to higher compliance rates for assertive messages. The research has implications for campaigners and public message composers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 15, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UCLA stem cell researchers uncover mechanism that regulates human pluripotent stem cell metabolism

Researchers found that pluripotent stem cells respire at the same level as differentiated body cells but produce very little energy. UCP2 protein blocks respiration substrates from entering mitochondria, allowing glycolysis to dominate. The study suggests that changes in metabolism drive cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 15, 2011

Students advance in science competition and publish theoretical physics study

Three Indiana high school students co-authored a paper on waveguide lattices with localized eigenstates published in Physical Review A. The students, mentored by IUPUI assistant professor Yogesh Joglekar, advanced to the national finals of the Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalPhysical Review A·DateNov 15, 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.

Niacin does not reduce heart attack, stroke risk in stable CV patients

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that high-dose niacin did not further reduce cardiovascular events in patients with stable cardiovascular disease and low HDL levels. The trial, AIM-HIGH, involved 1,718 patients who received extended-release niacin or a placebo for two years.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 15, 2011

Boppart presents at Congressional briefing

Professor Boppart discusses the importance of federal funds for research in medical imaging, enabling diagnosis and improving healthcare. He highlights the potential of optical coherence tomography to reduce re-operations and develop compact imaging devices for primary care physicians.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateNov 15, 2011

Prenatal quality initiative improves patient safety

A comprehensive training program for healthcare staff significantly reduced adverse events, including birth trauma, by more than half. The two-year study also showed improved staff perceptions of safety, patient satisfaction, and documentation rates.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal for Healthcare Quality·DateNov 15, 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.

A new molecular mechanism in breast cancer development

Researchers identified a key interaction between BRCA1 and RHAMM proteins regulating epithelial cell polarity, found altered in some breast cancer patients. The discovery provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms driving breast cancer development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 15, 2011

Moderate drinking and cardiovascular health: here comes the beer

A study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology found that moderate beer consumption can lower cardiovascular disease risk by up to 31% compared to non-drinkers. The research also revealed a dose-dependent effect for beer, with maximum protection observed at approximately one English pint per day.

SourceCatholic University - Campobasso·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 15, 2011

Why do events seem more important when consumers think about weight?

Researchers found that metaphorical associations with weight are just as influential as physical weight on consumer judgments. In experiments, participants who were primed to think about weight responded similarly to those who physically carried heavy loads.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 15, 2011

Molecular link between diabetes and cancer described

A study from Lund University has discovered a molecular link between type 2 diabetes and cancer, highlighting the role of the TCF7L2-p53-p53INP1 pathway in protecting pancreatic beta cells. The risk variant of TCF gene is common and linked to both diabetes and certain types of cancer.

SourceLund University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateNov 15, 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.

Perfect micro rings woven from muscle fibers

Researchers build a simple model system to study laws of 'absorbing states' in active systems, where energy is continuously consumed but movement stops. Complex structures form with perfectly shaped rings made up of millions of individual fibers.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2011

NIH TRND program announces next round of drug development projects

The National Institutes of Health's Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) program has announced its next round of drug development projects. Six new projects will focus on treatments for rare and neglected diseases, including musculoskeletal disorders, cognitive dysfunction disorders, and parasitic worm infections. The TR...

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateNov 15, 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.

Teaching skills key to selection of a successful model farmer

A new study by Steve Franzel and colleagues found that only 40% of expert farmers are effective disseminators, highlighting the importance of selecting farmer trainers based on their teaching skills. The study, conducted in Kenya with 225,000 smallholder farmers, suggests that extension programs should prioritize trainer selection over...

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·DateNov 15, 2011

Supervolcanoes: Not a threat for 2012

Despite fears, there's no evidence a supereruption is imminent; supervolcanoes are exceedingly rare and occur in clusters. Scientists closely monitor volcanically active areas, and there's no sign of a looming eruption.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 15, 2011

Cleaning cows from inside out

Researchers have discovered that citrus products can provide cows with good roughage and vitamins, reducing the risk of foodborne pathogens. The study found a tenfold reduction in Salmonella populations in sheep's intestinal contents after feeding them dried orange peel pellets.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalFoodborne Pathogens and Disease·DateNov 15, 2011

Milk thistle extract stops lung cancer in mice

Researchers found that silibinin from milk thistle prevents lung cancer growth by inhibiting COX2 and iNOS production. This natural compound may be as effective as current treatments for lung cancer, targeting promising therapeutic targets STAT1 and STAT3.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMolecular Carcinogenesis·DateNov 15, 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.

Igniting innovation and inspiration

The DOE's Office of Science has awarded almost 1.7 billion processor hours to 60 high-impact research projects addressing national and global challenges, with applications including earthquake hazard forecasts, wind turbine efficiency, and laser energy coupling for ignition targets. These awards accelerate development costs and speed d...

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·DateNov 15, 2011

Is a stranger trustworthy? You'll know in 20 seconds

A new study from the University of California, Berkeley, found that complete strangers can pick up on who is trustworthy and kind in just 20 seconds based on facial expressions and body language. People with a specific variation of the oxytocin receptor gene, known as the GG genotype, displayed more trustworthy behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2011

NC State team to develop energy efficient 3-D CPU

Researchers from North Carolina State University are working on a 3D CPU design to achieve up to 25% reduction in energy consumption and improve performance. The goal is to overcome challenges such as heat dissipation and incompatible chip designs, enabling the manufacture of more efficient and powerful computing devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateNov 15, 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.

Putting stroke patients in charge improves quality of life

A new study shows that giving stroke patients and their families control over their recovery process can significantly improve physical health scores and reduce disability. The 'Take Charge' session improved patients' quality of life by six points, while the inspirational DVD upped the result by one point.

SourceSAGE·JournalClinical Rehabilitation·DateNov 15, 2011

Policy reforms 'demoralizing' teaching profession, scholar argues

Doris Santoro argues that rigid curricula and high-stakes testing undermine a teacher's ability to respond to students' needs. The author emphasizes the distinction between burnout and demoralization, highlighting the need for policymakers to promote quality teaching.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·DateNov 15, 2011

Ancient stars shed light on the prehistory of the Milky Way

Researchers have discovered that ancient stars in the Milky Way's halo contain abnormally large amounts of heavy elements like gold and uranium. By analyzing the motions of these stars, they found evidence suggesting that exploding supernovae may have sent jets of enriched gas into space, creating the heavy-element rich stars.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 15, 2011

Ionized plasmas as cheap sterilizers for developing world

Researchers at UC Berkeley have discovered that ionized plasmas can kill bacteria in water for up to a week, making it a potential cheap and effective sterilizer for developing countries. The plasma-generated molecules create a cocktail of highly reactive chemicals that attack and destroy microbes.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateNov 15, 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.

EHJ paper underlines need for improved links between cardiologists and psychiatrists

A Finnish study published in the European Heart Journal found that combining antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs increases the risk of sudden cardiac death during an acute coronary event. The study suggests a need to improve screening for cardiovascular risk factors in psychiatric patients and avoid combining these medications.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 15, 2011

MSU researcher sent to Siberia to study global change

Elena Litchman leads a $2 million NSF grant to study Lake Baikal's adaptation to climate change. The research aims to understand how the lake's endemic species will respond to rising temperatures and human-induced stress, with potential implications for global ecosystems.

SourceMichigan State University·DateNov 15, 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.

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev researchers achieve male fertility breakthrough

Ben-Gurion University researchers have made a significant breakthrough in male fertility, producing normal sperm from mouse cells. The study, published in Asian Journal of Andrology, outlines the generation of spermatozoa from mouse testicular germ cells under in vitro culture using a three-dimensional Soft Agar Culture System.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateNov 15, 2011

Marines test new energy-efficient weapon in the war on trash

The Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS) can reduce a standard 50-gallon bag of waste to a half-pint jar of harmless ash. Developed by the Office of Naval Research, MAGS is environmentally friendly and fuel efficient, using thermally converted energy from biomass.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateNov 15, 2011

Adolescent sex linked to adult body, mood troubles, in animal study

Researchers found that adolescent male hamsters showed signs of depressive-like behaviors, lower body mass, and changes in brain cells after early-life sexual experience. This suggests that sex during adolescence may be interpreted by the body as a stressor, leading to lasting negative effects on adult body and mood.

SourceOhio State University·DateNov 15, 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.

Blood pressure and stroke risk gets more complicated

A new international study found that patients with very low systolic blood pressure levels may actually increase their chances of experiencing a recurrent stroke. The research, led by Bruce Ovbiagele, suggests that the relationship between blood pressure and stroke risk is more complicated than previously thought, with timing also play...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA·DateNov 15, 2011

Evidence supports ban on growth promotion use of antibiotics in farming

The widespread use of antibiotics in animal farming creates an environment for antibiotic-resistant bacteria to multiply and spread to humans. Studies show that up to 90% of antibiotics given to livestock are excreted into the environment, contributing to resistance genes and promoting infection risk.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalClinical Microbiology Reviews·DateNov 15, 2011

MIT: Uncovering a key player in metastasis

A study by MIT cancer biologists reveals that platelets release chemical signals inducing tumor cells to become more invasive and form new tumors. The findings suggest that direct physical contact between platelets and tumor cells is necessary for metastasis, highlighting potential targets for drug development.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 15, 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.

New biosensor benefits from melding of carbon nanotubes, DNA

Researchers have created a self-assembling platform for biosensors using synthetic DNA and carbon nanotubes. The technology allows for the creation of highly efficient sensors for detecting various compounds, including glucose, with potential applications in diabetes management and personalized medicine.

SourcePurdue University·JournalThe Analyst·DateNov 15, 2011

Only a third of US state police agencies equip cars with AEDs

A new study reveals that only 30% of US state police agencies have automated external defibrillators in their vehicles, despite the lifesaving devices being available for nearly $1,000 each. Training for officers in AED use is common, but equipment availability remains a significant issue.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateNov 15, 2011

Research provides clues to neurodevelopemental disorders

Recent studies shed light on how brain structure, genes, and chemicals interact to affect behavior in individuals with autism and fragile X syndrome. The research findings offer new tools for understanding these conditions, paving the way for effective education, early intervention, and potential treatments.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 15, 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.

Put yourself in someone else’s shoes: What type of perspective makes consumers self-conscious?

Researchers found that people who use an actor's perspective experience stronger joy and excitement but greater pride and guilt when recalling past events. In contrast, observers experience heightened sadness and embarrassment. The study highlights the importance of perspective in shaping emotional experiences.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 15, 2011

Gene impedes recovery from alcoholism

A specific gene variant is associated with a higher risk of premature death and relapse among alcohol-dependent individuals. Research found that carriers of this variant are 10 times more likely to die prematurely compared to the general population.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAlcohol and Alcoholism·DateNov 15, 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.

New hi-tech survey accelerates collection of vaccination data

Researchers used new technologies to collect near-real-time data on vaccination side effects in Scotland, revealing no significant safety issues with the 2009-10 swine flu vaccine. The study adds to evidence supporting the safety of vaccination campaigns and could inform future studies using web-based technology.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateNov 15, 2011

Erratic, extreme day-to-day weather puts climate change in new light

A new climate study found that daily weather variations have become more erratic and extreme, with significant fluctuations in sunshine and rainfall. This increase in variability could alter the distribution of heat and rainfall, affecting ecosystem stability and industries such as agriculture and solar-energy production.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalJournal of Climate·DateNov 15, 2011

Stanford engineers use nanophotonics to reshape on-chip computer data transmission

Researchers at Stanford University have created a single-mode light-emitting diode (LED) that is thousands of times more energy efficient than laser-based systems. The device can transmit data at 10 billion bits per second and operates at room temperature, making it a major step forward for on-chip computer data transmission.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 15, 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.

UC a strong presence at American Society of Criminology Meeting

Researchers at University of Cincinnati present findings on housing vouchers, prison victimization, public land use and fear of crime. A study also explores the impact of living with a custodial grandparent on juvenile delinquency. The effectiveness of Alcoholics Anonymous as a judicial sanction is evaluated in another study.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateNov 15, 2011

Pneumonia most common infection after heart surgery

The study found that pneumonia is the most common serious infection after heart surgery, occurring in 2.4 percent of patients, followed by C. difficile colitis and bloodstream infections. Risk factors for infection include congestive heart failure, hypertension, and length of stay.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 15, 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.

Why do experts seek negative feedback to get motivated?

A study found that experts are more motivated by negative feedback than novices, while novices respond better to positive feedback. This suggests that marketers should target experts with negative feedback to promote motivation and change attitudes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 15, 2011

Fossil moths show their true colors

Fossil moths from 47 million years ago had yellow-green wings that may have helped them blend in with leaves to avoid predators. Researchers reconstructed the original colors using mathematical analysis, providing insights into the evolution of color use among lepidopterans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 15, 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.

Early COPD detection could help lung cancer diagnosis

Researchers found that COPD patients are 5 times more likely to develop lung cancer than normal smokers. Early detection of COPD through lung function testing can help identify high-risk patients for lung cancer screening.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateNov 15, 2011

The brain acts fast to reappraise angry faces

Researchers found that reappraising emotions can quickly reduce negative responses to angry faces, with brain activity showing decreased signals for negative emotions after reappraisal. This process is faster and deeper than previously thought, allowing people to prepare themselves for potentially challenging situations.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 15, 2011

New project will study 'deep carbon'

A new project will study the behavior of carbon deep within the Earth, led by a UC Davis chemistry professor with a $1.5 million grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateNov 15, 2011

No extraordinary effects from microwave and mobile phone heating

Scientists quantify differences between microwave-induced and conventional heating in liquid glycerol samples, finding increased mobility and reactivity at low frequencies. The type of heating used has a limited impact on molecular mobility and reactivity at high temperatures.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateNov 15, 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.

Cleveland Clinic study: 2 statin drugs similarly effective in reversing coronary heart disease

A Cleveland Clinic study reveals that maximum doses of Crestor and Lipitor are equally effective in reversing atherosclerosis after 24 months of treatment. The trial showed no significant differences between the two drugs in reducing plaque burden, but rosuvastatin was found to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL levels.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 15, 2011

How far can they go? Traveling is key for survival and conservation

Researchers tracked Dusky Large Blue butterfly movements to discover that long-distance travel is crucial for landscape-level effects, informing more efficient conservation methods. The study, published in Journal of Animal Ecology, sheds light on butterfly mobility in fragmented landscapes and has implications for habitat design.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateNov 15, 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.

Panel of melanoma mutations opens door to new treatment possibilities

Researchers developed a new genetic screening tool to investigate possible treatments for patients with melanoma and unique genetic mutations. The study found that vemurafenib was most effective in melanomas with the V600E mutation, while vincristine only worked on those without BRAF gene mutations.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateNov 15, 2011

Stop signal discovered for skin cancer

Researchers at Monash University discovered a gene that helps protect against squamous cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. The absence of this gene is a profound driver of SCC tumours, leading to unchecked cell growth and cancer.

SourceMonash University·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 15, 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.

Vascular risk linked to long-term antiepileptic drug therapy

Researchers found that patients with epilepsy on long-term antiepileptic drugs, especially phenytoin, carbamazepine, and valproic acid, are at increased risk for developing atherosclerosis. The study suggests that newer AEDs like lamotrigine may minimize metabolic disturbances and reduce this risk.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateNov 15, 2011

Focus on testing hurts students in high school health classes

Students in health classes with a mastery focus reported better responses regarding sexual advances and safe sex habits, including lower intentions of having sex and improved navigation of sexual situations. In contrast, extrinsic-focused classrooms showed no improvement or even negative effects on these measures.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateNov 15, 2011

Minister announces UK-India collaboration on bioenergy

The UK and India will collaborate on bioenergy research to develop sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, with a focus on plant and algae processing. The joint call aims to tackle global challenges in this area, leveraging expertise from both nations.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateNov 15, 2011

Air pollution a culprit in worsening drought and flooding

A new study reveals that air pollution can exacerbate severe storms while suppressing gentle rains, according to the researchers. The findings have significant implications for water resource management in regions across the US and globally.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 15, 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.

Genetic screening in yeast reveals new candidate gene for Lou Gehrig's disease

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered a new human gene, TAF15, similar to TDP-43 and FUS, that may contribute to ALS pathology. The study used yeast as a model organism to identify potential disease genes associated with the neurodegenerative disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2011

MIT: Mimicking the brain, in silicon

The new chip can simulate the activity of a single brain synapse and capture intracellular processes that underlie many brain functions, including learning and memory. It represents a significant advance in modeling neural functions and could be used to build systems for neural prosthetic devices and artificial intelligence devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2011