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Science News for September 29, 2011


Single dose of hallucinogen may create lasting personality change

A single high dose of psilocybin has been shown to induce significant and lasting changes in personality, particularly openness, in nearly 60% of participants. The study found that these changes were comparable in magnitude to those observed over decades of life experiences.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateSep 29, 2011

Study finds consumers may have more control over health costs than previously thought

A new study found that patients with consumer-directed health plans have more control over healthcare costs, with two-thirds of the reduction in total healthcare costs coming from reduced utilization of medical services. This is due to lower use of name-brand medications, less in-patient care, and lower use of specialists.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalForum for Health Economics & Policy·DateSep 29, 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.

Building better catalysts

University of Utah chemists created a new method to identify optimal catalysts using data analysis and principles of chemistry. The technique reveals the link between size and electronic properties of catalysts in determining their effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2011

New cinema chair studies 'narrative IEDs' -- rumors

A new study led by San Francisco State University's Daniel Bernardi aims to track rumors and identify those with the power to become weapons in counterinsurgency operations. The team will develop a database of rumors that could undermine efforts in Afghanistan.

SourceSan Francisco State University·DateSep 29, 2011

Humans and sharks share immune system feature

Researchers at National Jewish Health found that T-cell receptors from mice continue to function with shark, frog, and trout receptor pieces substituted in. This interaction between the T cell and MHC molecules is crucial for immune defense and organ transplants.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalImmunity·DateSep 29, 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.

Georgia Tech researchers receive 3 NSF Emerging Frontiers awards

Researchers will develop a 'therapeutic robot' to aid people with mobility problems and create wearable sensors that allow blind individuals to perceive their environment. They will also investigate the spatial and temporal regulation of cell differentiation in tissues.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateSep 29, 2011

Fatty acid test: Why some harm health, but others help

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have identified unsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from plants and cold-water fish as beneficial for health. These fats block JNK activation by saturated fatty acids, which are linked to adverse health effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 2011

Large meta-analysis finds new genes for type 1 diabetes

A large-scale genetic study has uncovered new genes associated with type 1 diabetes, a condition affecting 200 million people worldwide. The research adds to knowledge of gene networks involved in the origin of this complex disorder.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 29, 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.

Dr. Malgorzata Borowiak returns to the MDC from Harvard

Dr. Malgorzata Borowiak has been awarded a grant from the Helmholtz Association to return to the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) Berlin-Buch, Germany, as head of a Young Investigators Group. She aims to contribute to diabetes research by studying beta cell development.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateSep 29, 2011

Academic issues warning on schoolboy rugby

A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine highlights the risk of injury for schoolboys playing rugby. The researchers warn that parents, teachers, and coaches should be informed about the level of risk involved.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateSep 29, 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.

Mercury not like other planets MESSENGER finds

The MESSENGER spacecraft has shown that Mercury's surface material composition differs significantly from other terrestrial planets, with higher abundances of sulfur and potassium. The planet's surface also features a unique magnetic field and extensive volcanic plains covering over 6% of its surface.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2011

Cocaine users have 45 percent increased risk of glaucoma

A recent study found that cocaine use is predictive of open-angle glaucoma, with current and former users having a 45% increased risk. Patients with open-angle glaucoma and history of exposure to illegal drugs were nearly 20 years younger than those without drug exposure history.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Glaucoma·DateSep 29, 2011

Drunk behavior -- a question of immunity

A University of Adelaide study found that an immune response in the brain contributes to how people respond to alcohol, influencing behavioral changes such as difficulty walking or talking. Blocking toll-like receptors may help reduce these effects and potentially treat alcohol dependence.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateSep 29, 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.

Productivity of land plants may be greater than previously thought

Researchers found that the El Niño effect drives faster conversion of CO2 in the terrestrial biosphere, leading to a revised estimate of global primary productivity. The new value suggests that land plants are more productive than previously thought, with implications for climate models and future carbon cycle research.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateSep 29, 2011

When chefs move the fruit

A new study at the American Dietetic Association Conference shows that moving fruit into a colorful bowl increases fruit sales by 104% in schools. The Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs is working with the White House and food industry leaders to promote healthier school lunches.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·DateSep 29, 2011

Diabetes and cancer: A shared biological basis

Research reveals a link between diabetes and cancer, showing that cancer-promoting proteins like Lin28a can increase insulin sensitivity in mice, while others with high let-7 levels become more resistant to diabetes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 2011

Living with dementia and making decisions

A two-year study funded by ESRC explores how married couples make decisions, from daily routines to complex choices. The findings highlight the importance of supporting people with dementia in decision-making processes, considering their relationship dynamics and individual preferences.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateSep 29, 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.

Pressurized vascular systems for self-healing materials

Scientists at the University of Illinois' Beckman Institute have created an active pumping mechanism for microvascular systems, which greatly enhances the repair of damaged materials like cracks in coatings on buildings or bridges. The pressurized delivery system outperforms traditional capillary force methods by a significant margin.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalInterface·DateSep 29, 2011

Journalism fellows promise in-depth portrayal of aging in a diverse America

The MetLife Foundation Journalists in Aging Fellows Program will develop major aging-focused stories or series, covering concerns such as seniors drowning in debt and the struggles of Iraqi and Afghan refugees. The program aims to cultivate public awareness of these issues, which affect all generations and cultures.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateSep 29, 2011

Lift weights, eat mustard, build muscles?

A new study published in the FASEB Journal found that rats fed homobrassinolide produced an anabolic effect, increasing lean body mass, muscle mass, and physical performance. The research also suggests potential applications for brassinosteroids in treating muscle wasting conditions.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 29, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UH researchers explain hormonal role in glucose and fat metabolism

Researchers at the University of Houston have discovered that estradiol, a naturally occurring estrogen hormone, plays a prominent role in regulating body functions in both females and males. The study found that an imbalance of estradiol levels can result in metabolic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 29, 2011

Carnegie Mellon scientists track neuronal stem cells using MRI

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a patented MRI technology that allows them to non-invasively track neural stem cells in living brains. This breakthrough could inform the development of new treatments for brain injuries, stroke, Parkinson's disease, and other neurological disorders.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNeuroImage·DateSep 29, 2011

ACCF/AHA release updated guideline to promote better management of peripheral artery disease

The American College of Cardiology Foundation (ACCF) and the American Heart Association (AHA) have released an updated guideline for diagnosing and managing peripheral artery disease (PAD). The guidelines emphasize expanded criteria for using the ankle-brachial index (ABI) for earlier diagnosis and increased efforts to ensure patients ...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 29, 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.

World-first discovery 'can help save coral reefs'

A new study provides a predictive sequence of events leading to coral reef collapse and identifies key sustainability targets for managing coral reefs. Researchers found that well-protected areas typically have 1000-1500 kilos of reef fish per hectare, and regulations restricting gear or species can help maintain biomass.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2011

Knockout of protein prevents colon tumor formation in mice

Researchers discovered that PTK6 protein, which regulates cell growth in normal tissue, activates proliferation of damaged cells in cancerous breast tissue. Mice lacking PTK6 gene were highly resistant to carcinogen-induced colon tumors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 29, 2011

Scientists and engineers create the 'perfect plastic'

Researchers at the University of Leeds and Durham University have developed a high-tech 'recipe book' to create new plastics with specific properties. The breakthrough will increase recycling abilities and save industries time, energy, and money.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 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.

Oral steroids linked to severe vitamin D deficiency in nationwide study

A nationwide study found that people taking oral steroids are twice as likely as the general population to have severe vitamin D deficiency. This increased risk is particularly pronounced for steroid users under 18, who were 14 times more likely to have a severe vitamin D deficiency.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateSep 29, 2011

Alcohol impairs the body's ability to fight off viral infection

New research shows that prolonged alcohol consumption can reduce the body's ability to produce anti-viral cytokines, leading to increased inflammation and impaired immune response. This study highlights the negative impact of alcohol on the immune system, particularly in relation to viral infections.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Immunology·DateSep 29, 2011

Rebuilding the head of an armoured dinosaur

Researchers have uncovered details on the brain and nasal passages of a 72 million-year-old armoured dinosaur Euoplocephalus. The team found that it had good senses of smell and hearing, and may have generated sound through its looping nasal passages to communicate.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateSep 29, 2011

Rensselaer engineers 'cook' promising new heat-harvesting nanomaterials in microwave oven

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new way to decrease zinc oxide's thermal conductivity without reducing its electrical conductivity by adding aluminum. This innovation could lead to new technologies for harvesting waste heat and creating energy-efficient systems, such as cars, aircraft, and power plants.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 29, 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.

Vicious queen ants use mob tactics to reach the top

In polygynous colonies, worker ants reinforce dominant queens by feeding and grooming them, while eliminating weaker sisters. Researchers found that inter-queen fighting involves ritualistic behavior, while workers are more aggressive, suggesting a complex reproductive strategy to maintain queen dominance.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateSep 29, 2011

Review of stroke treatment could save lives

A new study of over 26,000 stroke patients found that those with Atrial Fibrillation have a mortality rate almost twice that of other stroke patients. The study highlights the need for better use of existing anticoagulant medication to prevent fatal and disabling strokes.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalCerebrovascular Diseases·DateSep 29, 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.

Autistic mice act a lot like human patients

Researchers created a mouse model that displays remarkably similar symptoms and behavior as children and adults on the autism spectrum. The animals responded well to an FDA-approved drug prescribed to treat repetitive behaviors often associated with the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 2011

Climate change will show which animals can take the heat

A new study examines the impact of climate change on amphibian species, finding that rapid temperature swings can trap species at different points in their travels. The research suggests that many species will become endangered due to their inability to tolerate unfavorable climate conditions for extended periods.

SourceBrown University·JournalEcology Letters·DateSep 29, 2011

Red wine ingredient resveratrol stops breast cancer growth

Researchers discovered that resveratrol blocks the growth of breast cancer cells by reducing estrogen receptor levels. This finding has significant implications for treating women with breast cancer whose tumors develop resistance to hormonal therapy. Resveratrol may serve as a potential tool to combat hormone-resistant breast cancer.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 29, 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.

Computational modeling can help plan vaccine introduction, Pitt study finds

A University of Pittsburgh study found that introducing new vaccines can decrease vaccine availability by up to two-thirds due to storage and transportation issues. Computational models can forecast the impact of new vaccine introduction and identify potential disruptions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 29, 2011

Not quite 'roid rage

A new study reveals that fruit fly aggression is correlated with smaller brain parts and involves complex interactions between networks of important genes. The findings also show that certain portions of the fly brain affected by hyper-aggressive flies, and that calming did not necessarily come through chemistry.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2011

Researchers: Apply public trust doctrine to 'rescue' wildlife from politics

Scientists argue that when a species recovers enough to be removed from the federal endangered species list, state management should follow the public trust doctrine, which guides conservation for the public good. The researchers apply this principle to the gray wolf case in the northern Rocky Mountains.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2011

Single ions -- extremely cool

Researchers from PTB and Hanover have created a novel laser cooling method using a single laser source to bring a magnesium ion to a standstill. This technique allows for more precise measurements of the fine-structure constant, potentially resolving contradictions in astronomical data comparisons.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalApplied Physics B·DateSep 29, 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.

Weeds are vital to the existence of farmland species, study finds

A University of Hull study found that weeds are vital to the existence of many farmland species, providing food for over 330 species of insects, birds, and animals. The research also showed that increasing farm management intensity can lead to a decline in seed biomass and energy, affecting farmland biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Hull·JournalBiological Conservation·DateSep 29, 2011

Koalas' bellows boast about size

Researchers found that male koalas produce lower resonances in their bellows, which may be related to the length of their vocal tracts. The team also discovered that koalas can make themselves sound larger than they are by using simultaneous resonance in their oral and nasal tracts.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateSep 29, 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.

Experts propose new unified genetic model for human disease

Researchers develop a comprehensive genetic model that integrates various types of genetic variation, including single gene changes, chromosomal alterations, and de novo mutations. This framework recognizes the importance of both inherited and new genetic variants in disease susceptibility.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 2011

New analysis confirms sharks are in trouble

A recent study confirms shark populations are in trouble worldwide, with significant declines observed on the Great Barrier Reef. The research used innovative methods to estimate population growth rates, finding that sharks are declining rapidly due to fishing.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 29, 2011

Roads pave the way for the spread of superbugs

A recent study found that villages along roads have higher rates of antibiotic-resistant E. coli than rural areas, suggesting roads facilitate the spread of superbugs. The researchers attribute this to increased antibiotic use and poor water quality, which allow resistant strains to thrive.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateSep 29, 2011

Lawson research shows Canadians don't believe their eyes

A recent study by Lawson Research Institute found that nearly half of newly diagnosed Canadian patients with glaucoma were at moderate to advanced stages by the time of diagnosis. The study suggests a lack of preventive screenings and inadequate awareness about risk factors are contributing factors to this issue.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalJournal of Ophthalmology·DateSep 29, 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.

Superfast muscles in mammals

Researchers found that bats control echolocation calls with the fastest-contracting muscle type, enabling them to produce calls at rates of up to 190 calls per second. This allowed bats to better track insects in flight and make them successful hunters.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2011

MESSENGER data paints new picture of Mercury's magnetic field: UBC research

The MESSENGER mission has provided unprecedented data on Mercury's magnetic field, revealing a host of firsts, including evidence of widespread flood volcanism and direct measurements of its surface composition. The study sheds light on the planet's global magnetic field geometry and its interaction with solar wind.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2011

Everyone's a little bit racist, but it may not be your fault, study suggests

A recent study published in the British Journal of Social Psychology suggests that racism and prejudices are often learned through cultural exposure. Participants responded faster to word pairs found together in literature, indicating a potential link between cultural stereotypes and individual gut reactions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·DateSep 29, 2011

Women in science? Universities don't make the grade

Despite efforts to improve representation, women in science and engineering are lagging behind due to a hostile classroom climate, lack of supportive peer relationships, and poor faculty attitudes. Universities need to focus on making structural changes, such as diversity training for faculty and mentoring programs, to create an inclus...

SourceSociologists for Women in Society·JournalGender & Society·DateSep 29, 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.

'Back-up system' reduces heart disease deaths

Researchers found that patients with well-developed coronary collaterals have a 36% reduced risk of mortality from heart disease. The study suggests promoting natural bypass vessels through lifestyle factors and potential treatments, such as external counterpulsation or injections with growth factor G-CSF.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateSep 29, 2011

'Alarm clock' gene explains wake-up function of biological clock

Scientists have discovered a new component of the biological clock, a gene responsible for starting the clock from its restful state every morning. This discovery may help explain the genetic underpinnings of sleeplessness, aging and chronic illnesses such as cancer and diabetes.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2011

New technique identifies first events in tumor development

Scientists have developed a novel technique to measure and document tumor-inducing changes in DNA, revealing the earliest stages of cancer formation. The study provides insight into chromosomal rearrangements known as translocations, which can lead to tumors in leukemias, lymphomas, and sarcomas.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 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.

Baseball's winning formula

A University of Delaware professor found hitting accounts for more than 45% of teams' winning records, fielding for 25%, and pitching also for 25%. The impact of stolen bases is greatly overestimated in baseball winning percentages.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports·DateSep 29, 2011

Cedars-Sinai opens new Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Production Facility

The Cedars-Sinai Regenerative Medicine Institute has opened a new facility to produce induced pluripotent stem cells, which can be used to study human diseases and develop new treatments. Cells produced by the core will be critical for innovative research aimed at increasing our understanding of human diseases and genetic disorders.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateSep 29, 2011

Scientists discover the proteins that control development of varicose veins

Scientists have identified a protein that controls the development of varicose veins, offering new hope for prevention and treatment. By inhibiting this protein, researchers were able to stall the progression of varicose veins and reduce the need for surgery, potentially improving quality of life for those affected.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 29, 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.

Physicists consider their own carbon footprint

Physicists are being called on to take action against climate change by reducing their own carbon footprints. By changing behavior at the individual level and carefully planning future experiments, physicists can contribute to a more sustainable energy supply.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateSep 29, 2011

Redefining the kilogram and the ampere

Scientists have made precise measurements of the quantum Hall effect in graphene, supporting the redefinition of the kilogram and ampere. This breakthrough aims to establish a universal and stable definition for these fundamental constants, linking them to natural quantities.

SourceNational Physical Laboratory·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateSep 29, 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.

Stardust discovered in far-off planetary systems

Astronomers have detected stardust in debris discs of extra-solar planetary systems, providing insights into the planet formation process. The Jena research team found two systems with transiting planets, using photometric analysis to identify irregularities in the infrared range.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 29, 2011