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Science News for November 17, 2011


ASMBS and ASGE issue white paper on endoscopic bariatric therapies (EBTs)

The ASGE and ASMBS have issued a white paper exploring the role of EBTs in treating obesity. EBTs, such as laparoscopic gastric bypass, adjustable gastric banding, and sleeve gastrectomy, may offer patients an outpatient alternative to traditional bariatric procedures.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateNov 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.

In an enzyme critical for life, X-ray emission cracks mystery atom

Scientists used powerful synchrotron spectroscopy and computational modeling to reveal carbon as the mystery atom in nitrogenase, a complex enzyme crucial for life. The research was published online in Science and provides insight into the chemistry of how the cluster behaves, a step toward unraveling its mechanism.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2011

Antarctica's Gamburtsev Subglacial Mountains mystery solved

Researchers have found that the Gamburtsev Subglacial Mountains were formed by multiple tectonic events over a billion years, rather than a single event. The mountains' youthful appearance is thought to be due to the preservation of ancient crustal roots and uplift caused by rifting.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·DateNov 17, 2011

How the brain senses nutrient balance

Researchers discovered a cellular mechanism allowing brain cells to translate different diets into distinct activity patterns. The orexin/hypocretin neurons are stimulated by amino acids, but inhibited by glucose, revealing a complex 'push-pull' control by sugars and proteins.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateNov 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.

Biodegradable mulches successfully control weeds in container-grown arborvitae

A new study by Italian scientists shows that biodegradable mulches can effectively control weeds in container-grown arborvitae, with results comparable to chemical herbicides. The researchers found no impact on substrate temperature or water content, and noted that transpiration is the main component of water loss from these plants.

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

Increasing uterine expression of developmental genes may improve IVF success

A new study suggests that increasing the expression of certain developmental genes in the uterus at precise times may improve IVF success rates. The researchers found that these genes, Msx1 and Msx2, play a crucial role in ensuring uterine receptivity for successful embryo implantation.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 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.

New hope for young leukemia patients?

A study published in Blood has identified a potential marker, PD-1, that is more frequently found in young leukemia patients who experience relapses. This discovery could lead to the development of simple tests to predict relapse, reducing the risk for these vulnerable individuals.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalBlood·DateNov 17, 2011

Archeologists investigate Ice Age hominins' adaptability to climate change

A team of researchers used computational modeling to study the evolution of Neanderthals in response to climate change, revealing that they were as adaptable and resourceful as modern humans. The study suggests that Neanderthals' success led to their own extinction due to interbreeding with modern humans.

SourceArizona State University·JournalHuman Ecology·DateNov 17, 2011

Adolescents underserved at American Public Gardens

A recent study found that 65.8% of public gardens offer some form of adolescent programming, but only 28.9% provide long-term programs. The research identified seven institutional benefits and strategies for implementing successful youth programming.

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

Planting depth's effect on container-grown trees

Research on container-grown trees found that deep structural roots contribute to physiological stresses and abnormally deep roots. Remediation techniques reduced growth delays in pin oak, while littleleaf linden showed more persistent issues after three years.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 17, 2011

Public willing to pay more for greener urban spaces

Research from the University of Sheffield found that people are willing to pay extra for greener urban spaces, with greater tree coverage attracting higher payments. The study surveyed public opinions on various redevelopment scenarios and found a strong correlation between green space quality and willingness to pay.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateNov 17, 2011

The crisis of no new antibiotics: No action today, no cure tomorrow

The world is facing a dire shortage of new antibiotics, with increasing resistance making treatment increasingly difficult. Professor Laura Piddock calls for urgent action to turn this around, citing the need for increased public awareness and government support.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 17, 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.

Bleak future for Bay area tidal marshes?

A new study projects a bleak future for San Francisco Bay's tidal marshes under high-end sea-level rise scenarios, with up to 93% of the bay's tidal marshes potentially lost. However, the study also highlights the importance of restoration efforts and sediment management in preserving these vital ecosystems.

SourcePoint Blue Conservation Science·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 17, 2011

Could lemmings be involved in regulating our climate?

A new study found that lemmings can promote greening in the Arctic by increasing grass and sedge biomass, which could tip the climate either way. The researchers suggest that lemming populations play a key role in regulating tundra ecosystems, potentially maintaining them as carbon sinks.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateNov 17, 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.

Micro-cavity arrays: Lighting the way to the future

Micro-cavity arrays, pioneered by Air Force research, utilize micro-plasmas for efficient and environmentally friendly lighting. The technology boasts high utilization efficiency, is fully dimmable, and has a high Color Rendering Index, approaching sunlight quality.

SourceAir Force Office of Scientific Research·DateNov 17, 2011

MU scientist eyeing enzymes that could help fight flu

Researchers are studying two enzymes to combat the flu virus, which causes 36,000 US deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations annually. The goal is to identify targets for drug therapies that can block the spread of the influenza virus.

SourceUniversity of Missouri School of Medicine·DateNov 17, 2011

Study details links between climate, groundwater availability – will help states prepare for drought

A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that groundwater levels are influenced by precipitation three months earlier. The research provides unprecedented detail on how climate affects surface water and streamflow in the region, enabling better planning and policy decisions to mitigate water shortages.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Hydrologic Engineering·DateNov 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.

Princeton release: Massive volcanoes, meteorite impacts delivered one-two death punch to dinosaurs

Researchers from Princeton University reject the prevailing theory that a single large meteorite caused the mass extinction event at the end of the Cretaceous period. Instead, they link the extinction to massive volcanic eruptions in western India known as the Deccan Traps, which were 3 times larger than France.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalJournal of the Geological Society of India·DateNov 17, 2011

Soybean adoption came early by many cultures, archaeologists say

New archaeological evidence suggests that soybean domestication may have occurred as early as 5,500 years ago, with widespread adoption in northern China, Japan, and South Korea. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the origins of soybean domestication.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 17, 2011

Friends with benefits

Human relationships rely on endorphin rewards for motivation, unlike rodents which focus on oxytocin and vasopressin. The study suggests that endorphins enable complex relationship networks to endure and persist.

SourceBrill·JournalBehaviour·DateNov 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.

How the fly flies

Researchers at Max Planck Institute identified the genetic switch Spalt that regulates flight muscle formation in flies. Without Spalt, flies are flightless, but can still move their legs normally. This discovery has potential medical applications for understanding and regulating human muscle function.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateNov 17, 2011

One for you, one for me

Stowers researchers used baker's yeast to study chromosome separation and found that Mps3 ensures accurate spindle pole body duplication, which is crucial for cell division. They also discovered a novel mutant with defects in nuclear membrane structure and function.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 17, 2011

Researchers discover new way to form extracellular vesicles

Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center have discovered a protein called TAT-5 that inhibits the budding of extracellular vesicles from cells, affecting tumor spread, blood clotting, and inflammation. The study reveals new potential strategies to manipulate diseases like cancer.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 17, 2011

A mathematical model determines which nations are more stable and which are more likely to break up

A new mathematical model developed by an international research group can predict the stability of European nations and identify regions more likely to break up. The model considers demographic, economic, cultural, and genetic factors, showing a correlation between population genetics and cultural distance.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Economic Growth·DateNov 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.

University of Alaska science station nets $16 million award

The University of Alaska Fairbanks' Toolik Field Station will receive a $16.3 million award from the National Science Foundation to improve its infrastructure and services. The funding will support upgrades to housing, utilities, meals, communications, and lab space for hundreds of scientists and students working at the station.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateNov 17, 2011

Vermicompost beneficial for organically grown tomatoes

Researchers found vermicompost amendments in organic substrates significantly enhanced tomato growth and yield. The addition of vermicompost resulted in lower incidence of defective fruit, further increasing the benefits for organic production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 17, 2011

Multidisciplinary team of researchers develop world’s lightest material

A multidisciplinary team of researchers has developed the world's lightest material, boasting a density of 0.9 mg/cc and unparalleled mechanical behavior. The novel material's unique micro-lattice cellular architecture enables complete recovery from compression exceeding 50 percent strain and extraordinary high energy absorption.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2011

Brain study explores what makes colors and numbers collide

A recent study reveals that individuals with grapheme-color synesthesia exhibit increased activity in the brain's visual cortex, a finding that provides insight into the neural mechanisms underlying conscious awareness. The research also suggests that the brains of synesthetes may be more excitable than those without the condition.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 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.

The buzz around beer

Flies sense glycerol, a sweet-tasting compound made during fermentation, which signals high nutritive value. Researchers found that a receptor called Gr64e plays a crucial role in signaling a good taste for beer.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 17, 2011

Paving the way for better prevention and management of delirium

A systematic review of delirium biomarkers found that clinicians are not using these chemical indicators to diagnose or treat patients with delirium. Biomarkers linked to delirium provide a window into the disease process, enabling better recognition and management of the condition.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 17, 2011

The modeling of multiple relationships in social networks

Researchers develop an integrated statistical framework to model multiple relationships of different types on a common set of actors. The study found that common factors determined the likelihood of relationship formation, including geographical proximity and online popularity. The model accurately predicted relationships in networks, ...

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateNov 17, 2011

Marshall study shows nanoparticles used as additives in diesel fuels can travel from lungs to liver

A recent study by Marshall University researchers discovered that nanoparticles of cerium oxide, commonly used in diesel fuels, can travel from the lungs to the liver and cause damage. The study found a dose-dependent increase in cerium levels in the liver, associated with liver enzyme elevations and histological evidence of liver damage.

SourceMarshall University Research Corporation·JournalInternational Journal of Nanomedicine·DateNov 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.

Researchers discover Achilles' heel in lethal form of prostate cancer

Researchers have identified a genetic vulnerability in an aggressive type of prostate cancer, found in fewer than 2% of tumors but potentially treatable with targeted therapy. The study discovered that a specific drug, PHA-739358, showed dramatic responses in animal models and is now being tested in human trials.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalCancer Discovery·DateNov 17, 2011

Corals can sense what's coming

A team of Australian scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery about the mechanism behind coral bleaching, a devastating event caused by rising water temperatures. Corals are able to respond to stress by killing off some cells while strengthening others in an attempt to recover after the hot water has moved on.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·DateNov 17, 2011

Presenteeism: A new word for working when sick

A study by Concordia University found that employees with acute, chronic or episodic illness report higher rates of presenteeism, with caregivers in early education reporting the highest rates. Presenteeism can be influenced by job insecurity and social obligation, but research suggests it may not always be a productive option.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Occupational Health Psychology·DateNov 17, 2011

SLAC research cracks puzzle of enzyme critical to food supply

Researchers identified carbon as the key atom in nitrogenase, an enzyme that converts atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for living things. The discovery could lead to a more efficient and environmentally friendly method for manufacturing fertilizer.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 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.

Researchers watch a next-gen memory bit switch in real time

Engineering researchers have successfully watched a ferroelectric memory bit switch between 0 and 1 states in real time. The breakthrough discovery offers greater storage capacity, faster write speed, and longer lifetimes than current memory designs.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2011

UGA researchers develop 'super' yeast that turns pine into ethanol

Researchers at UGA developed a 'super strain' of yeast that can efficiently ferment ethanol from pretreated pine, increasing ethanol production by up to 17.5% compared to previous studies. The new process has the potential to utilize forestry residues and waste, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional biofuels.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·DateNov 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.

Nudity tunes up the brain

Researchers found that nude bodies are processed more efficiently by the brain than clothed bodies, even at an early stage of visual processing. This effect is strongest for pictures of nude female bodies, and may play a role in reproduction.

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateNov 17, 2011

Rivers may aid climate control in cities

Researchers have discovered that rivers in cities can produce a cooling microclimate, helping to reduce overheating temperatures. The University of Sheffield's URSULA project has found that rivers can absorb excess heat from the sun and help cities stay cool, making them a valuable tool for urban planning.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateNov 17, 2011

Worms reveal secrets of wound-healing response

Biologists discovered genes in roundworms that signal wound presence and trigger chemical reactions to close cuts. The study also identified a protein that inhibits wound closure, raising hopes for developing treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 17, 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.

Scripps Research scientists identify new class of antimalarial compounds

A team of scientists from Scripps Research Institute has identified a family of chemical compounds that could lead to the development of novel drugs capable of not only alleviating symptoms but also preventing the deadly disease. The new class of compounds is highly effective against malaria parasites in both the blood and liver stages.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2011

Dual-acting class of antimalarial compounds discovered by Novartis with potential to prevent and treat malaria

Researchers at Novartis have discovered a new class of dual-acting antimalarial compounds, the imidazolopiperazines (IZPs), which target both liver and blood infections. These compounds attack the Plasmodium parasite at both stages in its reproduction cycle, showing promise as a next-generation treatment for malaria.

SourceNovartis Institutes for BioMedical Research·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2011

Combo hormone therapy has increased breast cancer risk over estrogen alone

A recent study found that women taking combination estrogen and progestin menopausal hormone therapy are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer if they experience new onset breast tenderness. In contrast, women on estrogen alone without breast tenderness did not have an increased risk of breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateNov 17, 2011

Protecting our brains: Tackling delirium

A new national plan aims to improve care for patients with delirium, a poorly understood condition that affects millions of Americans. The plan outlines four goals: improving clinical care, educating healthcare providers, investing in research, and developing a network of delirium professionals.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 17, 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.

Assembly stand completed for NASA's Webb Telescope flight optics

The installation of a giant structural steel optical assembly stand marks the transition to the integration and testing phase for NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. The telescope will observe the most distant objects in the universe, provide images of the first galaxies ever formed, and study planets around distant stars.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 17, 2011

Study explains how heart attack can lead to heart rupture

A new study by University of Iowa researchers pinpoints CaM kinase as the key player in cardiac rupture. Blocking this protein may help prevent cardiac rupture and reduce death risk. The study also found that activated CaM kinase prompts heart muscle cells to produce an enzyme called MMP9, implicated in heart rupture.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 17, 2011

A new stent design may put patients at risk

A new stent design has been linked to shortening and deformity in some patients, leading to serious complications. Researchers and clinicians are investigating the issue and working on new recommendations for its use.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Interventional Cardiology·DateNov 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.

What bacteria don't know can hurt them

Bacteria become resistant to antibiotics when starved due to the ability of outer layer cells to sense nutrients, producing a protective mechanism against toxic oxygen radicals. Disrupting this function could improve treatment for infections.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2011

VLBA observations key to 'complete description' of black hole

For the first time, astronomers have produced a complete description of a black hole using precise measurements. The new information reveals that the black hole is nearly 15 times more massive than our Sun and spinning over 800 times per second.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 17, 2011

Satellite images help species conservation

Researchers used satellite imagery to assess the conservation status of endangered species in the Comoro archipelago, finding that only 9% of the island area is still covered by natural forest. This approach allows for precise estimation of remaining habitat extent and prioritization of future protected areas.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateNov 17, 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.

The brain's zoom button

Researchers discovered a key mechanism in the brain that controls spatial resolution, allowing for precise navigation and memory. By disabling ion channels in grid cells, they found that the brain's maps become coarser, affecting spatial memory and navigation.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCell·DateNov 17, 2011

'Trans-parency' in the workplace

A new study from Rice University and Pennsylvania State University reveals that transsexual employees who are open about their gender identity in the workplace experience greater job satisfaction and organizational commitment. The research also highlights the importance of a strong support system in fostering a positive work environment.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Vocational Behavior·DateNov 17, 2011

Fatigue linked to safety problems among EMS workers, Pitt study finds

A recent study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that fatigue and poor sleep quality among emergency medical services (EMS) workers are associated with higher rates of injuries, medical errors, and safety-compromising behaviors. The study suggests that improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue may be key targets for inte...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPrehospital Emergency Care·DateNov 17, 2011

Recent advance in detonation theory

Researchers Hu et al. developed a new detonation model named the least-action detonation model (LADM) that takes into account complex movement and transport effects, differing from the classical ZND model. The LADM model predicts detonation product particles to be in a stationary state, which has been observed in experiments.

SourceScience China Press·DateNov 17, 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.

Smart swarms of bacteria inspire robotics researchers

Researchers at Tel Aviv University developed a computational model that explains how bacteria move in a swarm, enabling the design of intelligent robots. Bacteria's superior survival skills come from their ability to adjust interactions with peers and utilize short-term memory.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 17, 2011

NIH-funded scientists identify potential malaria drug candidates

Researchers have identified a new class of compounds, known as the imidazolopiperazine (IP) cluster, that could target both liver and blood stages of malaria infection. The IP cluster, including compound GNF179, showed promise in treating malaria-infected mice, extending survival by an average of 19 days.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2011