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Science News for November 28, 2011


Daily wheezing treatment no different from intermittent in toddlers

A recent study by the CARE Network found that daily inhaled steroid treatment for young children with frequent bouts of wheezing was not more effective than treating symptoms at the first signs of a respiratory tract infection. The trial showed comparable results in reducing episodes, symptom days, and quality of life.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 28, 2011

LSUHSC research shows Rx with hyperbaric oxygen improved TBI and PTSD in vets

Research led by Dr. Paul Harch found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy significantly improved function and quality of life for veterans with traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. The treatment showed improvements in symptoms, cognitive testing, quality of life measurements, and PTSD symptoms.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateNov 28, 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.

How the brain strings words into sentences

A study published in Neuron reveals that upper and lower white matter fiber pathways play distinct roles in language processing. Patients with damage to the lower pathway struggle with lexical semantics but excel at constructing sentences, while those with damage to the upper pathway have difficulties with syntactic processing.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNeuron·DateNov 28, 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.

An unexpected player in a cancer defense system

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new player in the body's defense against cancer, VCP/p97 complex. This complex plays a crucial role in regulating the recruitment of tumor suppressor protein 53BP1 to damaged DNA.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 28, 2011

What wakes dormant tumor cells

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that protein BMP7 signals prostate tumor cells to enter a state of dormancy. Withdrawal of this protein restarts tumor growth, offering potential new therapies to prevent recurrence.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 28, 2011

States could see substantial savings with tobacco control programs

A new study suggests that states could save substantial amounts of money by fully funding tobacco control programs, which have a sustained impact on cigarette demand. The programs would reduce Medicaid payments, medical costs, and lost productivity, resulting in long-term savings for the states.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateNov 28, 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.

New insight into climate change in the Pacific

The report presents the most comprehensive scientific analysis of climate change in the Pacific region, indicating warmer temperatures, ocean acidification, and increased extreme weather events. Future projections suggest decreased droughts and tropical cyclone frequencies, but increased extreme rainfall and sea-level rise.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateNov 28, 2011

Researchers use CT to recreate Stradivarius violin

A team of experts used CT imaging and computer-aided machinery to create a reproduction of a 1704 Stradivarius violin. The process involved scanning the original instrument and converting images into stereolithographic files, which were then carved and assembled by hand.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 28, 2011

International initiative to address safety issues in stem cell therapy

A collaborative study from the International Stem Cell Initiative analyzed human pluripotent stem cells' genetic stability and found that 75% remained normal after prolonged culture. However, researchers detected genetic changes similar to those seen in human cancers, highlighting the need for detecting and eliminating abnormal cells.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 28, 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.

Marine biodiversity loss due to warming and predation: UBC researcher

A UBC study reveals that climate-driven warming and predation are causing significant losses in marine biodiversity, with mussels losing 51% of their habitat due to rising temperatures. Removing predators through exclusion cages allowed prey species to occupy hotter sites, resulting in a doubling of species richness.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 2011

Patients with balance disorders benefit from integrative therapy

A special issue of NeuroRehabilitation highlights the latest clinical advances in vestibular rehabilitation, a proven treatment for balance disorders associated with neurological disease or trauma. The integration of multiple disciplines and specialized training has improved patient outcomes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateNov 28, 2011

New database for vital model organism launched

The PomBase database provides a comprehensive resource for studying fission yeast and its relevance to human diseases. The database contains counterparts of over 300 human disease genes, enabling researchers to study mechanisms involved in cell growth and division.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateNov 28, 2011

Polarized filter may reduce unnecessary cervical biopsies and surgeries

A new study explores whether a polarized filter can enhance colposcopy, allowing doctors to detect early signs of cervical cancer more accurately. The approach has shown promise in reducing unnecessary biopsies and surgeries, particularly in young women where normal cell types can be difficult to distinguish.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateNov 28, 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.

Study debunks stereotype that men think about sex all day long

A new study from Ohio State University challenges the persistent stereotype that men spend more time thinking about sex. The research found that young men thought about sex almost 19 times a day, while women thought about it nearly 10 times a day. Men also considered eating and sleep needs more frequently than women.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·DateNov 28, 2011

Reality in the eye of the beholder

Dartmouth Computer Science Professor Hany Farid and Eric Kee propose a rating system to assess the extent of digital retouching in photos. This metric could incentivize publishers and models to reduce extreme forms of retouching, potentially mitigating adverse effects on body image and public health.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2011

No plain sailing for marine life as climate warms

Marine life may need to relocate faster than land species due to climate warming, posing a significant conservation challenge. The rate at which marine life relocates depends on the distance it needs to travel to reach its preferred temperature conditions, with many areas having relatively little temperature variation.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 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.

Antibiotics in swine feed encourage gene exchange

A study by Heather Allen and colleagues reveals that antibiotics in swine feed stimulate gene transfer among gut bacteria, increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance. The researchers found that prophages, segments of DNA encoding antibiotic resistance genes, underwent significant increases in induction when exposed to antibiotics.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateNov 28, 2011

Australian science joins global effort to transform food system

Experts from leading science organisations have released a blueprint for urgent action to address the global challenge of feeding the world in the face of climate change. The report recommends climate-resilient agricultural production, efficient resource use, and low-waste supply chains.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateNov 28, 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.

New compound defeats drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Brown University have discovered a new compound that can defeat drug-resistant bacteria by blocking their efflux pumps. The compound, called BU-005, was found to inhibit the activity of two different families of drug-efflux pumps, one associated with Gram-positive bacteria and the other with Gram-negative bacteria.

SourceBrown University·JournalBioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters·DateNov 28, 2011

Caregivers at risk for health problems

Research reveals that caregivers' daily lives are disrupted by their loved one's behaviors, leading to elevated stress levels and physical health risks. The study also found that caregiving can tax the caregiver's HPA system, contributing to cardiovascular and metabolic problems.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateNov 28, 2011

40 percent of youths attempting suicide make first attempt before high school

A study published in Journal of Adolescent Health found that nearly 40 percent of young adults who tried suicide made their first attempt in elementary or middle school. This suggests that early mental health programs may be necessary to address chronic mental health problems, which often begin during childhood and adolescence.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateNov 28, 2011

Princeton technique puts chemistry breakthroughs on the fast track

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a technique to accelerate chemical discoveries by performing over 1,000 reactions per day using robotics. This approach enables the rapid exploration of new chemical combinations, potentially leading to breakthroughs in pharmaceuticals and other fields.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 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.

The art of stabilizing entangled spaghetti-like materials

Researchers have found that electric charge ratio and polymer concentrations control complex properties, allowing stable delivery of DNA into targeted cell nuclei. Future work focuses on forming complexes with controlled size and electric charge for efficient gene therapy.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateNov 28, 2011

Report: Herbicide atrazine spurs reproductive problems in many creatures

The review found consistent patterns of reproductive dysfunction in animals exposed to atrazine, with effects observed in amphibians, fish, reptiles, and mammals. Atrazine has been shown to disrupt hormone function and sexual development, leading to feminization of male gonads in many species.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateNov 28, 2011

Graphene foam detects explosives, emissions better than today's gas sensors

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers developed a graphene foam sensor that detects ammonia and nitrogen dioxide at concentrations as low as 20 parts-per-million, outperforming commercial gas sensors. The new technology is flexible, rugged, and reusable, making it suitable for various industrial applications.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 28, 2011

Men's honest overconfidence may lead to male domination in the C-suite

A recent study by Columbia Business School reveals that men's natural overconfidence in their past performance contributes significantly to the lack of female representation in upper management positions. The researchers found that while both men and women exhibit similar tendencies to exaggerate their performance, men consistently rat...

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·DateNov 28, 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.

Paying physicians more to get more -- or to get less

Increasing physician pay to attract more doctors may lead to a shortage of services. Non-wage compensation like bonuses and relocation support can reduce the number of hours worked by physicians.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 28, 2011

New study to test unusual hypothesis on beta brainwaves

Jones and Moore's model suggests that neurons in the cortex experience beta oscillations when receiving a combination of two input signals at the right time and strength. The researchers aim to prove their hypothesis using optogenetics and expand their computational model to incorporate upstream brain regions.

SourceBrown University·DateNov 28, 2011

Fungi: Another tool in bacteria's belt?

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered that bacteria and fungi work together to aid movement and survival. Fungal spores can attach to bacteria, allowing them to travel further, while the bacteria use fungi as natural bridges to overcome obstacles.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2011

Drug may slow spread of deadly eye cancer

Researchers have discovered a drug that can alter the DNA of uveal melanoma cells, rendering them less aggressive. The treatment, known as histone deacetylase inhibitors, may slow or prevent tumor growth in patients with metastatic eye cancer.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 28, 2011

Hospital parking fees are health care user fees

Hospital parking fees should be abolished as they create barriers to health care and distract patients from their concerns. Abolishing parking fees would validate patients' experience and support patient-centred health care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 28, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cell molecule identified as central player in the formation of new blood vessels

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discovered that the protein Shc plays a vital role in forming new blood vessels through its ability to coordinate signals from growth factors and extracellular matrix. This finding highlights the importance of understanding molecular mechanisms in disease development and treatment.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalBlood·DateNov 28, 2011

In the heart of Cygnus, NASA's Fermi reveals a cosmic-ray cocoon

The study reveals that Cygnus X has formed a 'cocoon' of trapped cosmic rays, which were accelerated by the intense stellar winds and shockwaves. This finding provides a unique glimpse into the early life of cosmic rays, long before they diffuse into the galaxy.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 2011

UCLA researchers engineer blood stem cells to fight melanoma

Researchers from UCLA's cancer and stem cell centers have successfully engineered blood stem cells to create cancer-killing T-cells that seek out and attack human melanoma. The approach could lead to a sustained immune response, potentially protecting against cancer recurrence.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 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.

Mid-morning snacking may sabotage weight-loss efforts

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that women who skipped mid-morning snacking lost more weight compared to those who snacked. Healthy snacks can aid in weight loss, but timing is crucial.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateNov 28, 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.

Lightning-made waves in Earth's atmosphere leak into space

Researchers have detected Schumann resonance in space using the VEFI instrument aboard the C/NOFS satellite, finding waves of extremely low frequency that can be as low as 8 Hz. This discovery provides a new tool to study Earth's weather, electric environment, and atmospheric composition from above.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 28, 2011

A study looks at the nature of change in our aging, changing brains

Researchers found that the structure of cognitive change remains consistent across adulthood, with age-related declines varying in direction and magnitude. The study's findings advance understanding of the aging brain and may inform interventions to improve cognitive functioning.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 28, 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.

Functional brain pathways disrupted in children with ADHD

Researchers have identified abnormalities in brain function of children with ADHD using fMRI, revealing disruptions in visual attention processing and impaired communication among brain regions. This finding contributes to understanding the pathology of inattention in ADHD.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 28, 2011

Socioeconomic status may explain racial disparities in diet, exercise, and weight

A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association finds that racial disparities in diet, exercise, and weight are more closely related to differences in socioeconomic status than nutrition knowledge. People with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to be overweight, regardless of racial background.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateNov 28, 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.

Depression can lead to heart disease

A recent study conducted by Concordia University found that depressed individuals are twice as likely to have a heart attack compared to non-depressed individuals. The study also showed that depressed individuals take longer to recover their normal heart rate after exercise, indicating a dysfunctional stress response.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsychophysiology·DateNov 28, 2011

1 promising puzzle piece for confirming dark matter now seems unlikely fit

Researchers confirm detection of antimatter positron excess with assistance from Earth's magnetic field, casting doubt on dark matter explanation. The Fermi Gamma-ray Telescope's unique approach utilizes the Earth's magnetic field to separate charged particles, providing valuable insight into the universe.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 28, 2011

Pollen research not be sniffed at

The 'Pollen Under the Microscope' exhibition showcases stunning images of pollens from Australia and overseas, using cutting-edge technology to rapidly identify pollen grains. Pollen is vital for human life, agriculture, and biodiversity, and this technology aims to aid conservation and ecology by providing more accessible information.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateNov 28, 2011

Creative excuses: Original thinkers more likely to cheat

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that creative individuals are more prone to cheating, as their talent can lead them to justify unethical behavior. This contradicts the notion that intelligence and dishonesty are unrelated.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 28, 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.

Boys with regressive autism, but not early onset autism, have larger brains

A study by UC Davis MIND Institute researchers found that 3-year-old boys with regressive autism have larger brains than their healthy counterparts, while girls with autism do not show abnormal brain growth. Brain enlargement was consistently observed only in the subset of children diagnosed with regressive autism.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2011

First database-derived 'data paper' published in journal

A new 'Data Paper' workflow has been pioneered by GBIF and Pensoft publishers to provide incentives for data compilers. The first-ever peer-reviewed paper derived directly from a biodiversity metadata document is published in the ZooKeys journal.

SourceGlobal Biodiversity Information Facility·JournalZooKeys·DateNov 28, 2011

Babies embrace punishment earlier than previously thought, study suggests

A new study suggests that eight month-old infants support negative behavior towards those who act antisocially and dislike those who are nice to bad guys. This finding provides insights into the protective mechanisms humans use to choose social alliances, rooted in self-preservation.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2011

2 NASA Goddard engineers receive prestigious award

Two NASA engineers, Diane Elizabeth Pugel and Steven Scott, received achievement awards for their groundbreaking work on the Orion crew vehicle and thermal-protection system. Pugel's non-destructive testing approach for materials evaluation was recognized as a breakthrough in aerospace engineering.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 28, 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.

Addex scientists discover GLP-1 induced interaction between GLP-1 and GIP receptors

Researchers at Addex Pharmaceuticals have discovered a novel interaction between GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which has the potential to trigger new therapies for Type 2 diabetes. The discovery was made possible by the company's allosteric modulation platform and could lead to the development of orally available small molecule treatments.

SourceHalsin Partners·JournalMolecular Pharmacology·DateNov 28, 2011

Integrated 3-D imaging facilitates human face transplantation

Researchers integrated 3-D imaging techniques to better understand facial structure and contours, underlying bone, muscles, nerves, and vessels in face transplantation. This technology allows for customized procedures and real-time user interaction to assess eligibility and plan the surgery.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 28, 2011

School-in-a-bag reduces drop-out rates

A study led by London's Institute of Education found that using new teaching methods and community support can significantly reduce school drop-out rates. The project cut drop-out rates by 42% in just a year, particularly among vulnerable children.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateNov 28, 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.

Most hospitals miss critical window for heart attack transfer patients

Nationwide study reveals that fewer than 10% of heart attack patients transferred from initial hospital to one offering angioplasty are done within the recommended 30-minute timeframe. This delay increases the risk of death, particularly for STEMI patients who require immediate artery-opening procedure.

SourceYale University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 28, 2011

New study shows biopsy of recurrent breast cancer can alter treatment

A new study shows that comparing a new biopsy of recurrent breast cancer with the original biopsy can dictate a change in treatment. The results suggest that patients may benefit from asking their physician if a second biopsy is needed to confirm their treatment therapy.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateNov 28, 2011

Cleft lip corrected genetically in mouse model

Researchers have developed a mouse model that can correct cleft lips, opening up possibilities for prevention and treatment of the condition. The study identified key genes and signaling pathways involved in facial development, including Wnt activity.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 28, 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.