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Science News for April 16, 2012


Sticking to our goals: What's the best approach for success?

A shift in attention can make all the difference in reaching goals, according to a new study. Consumers often start towards a goal but struggle to finish it. Focusing on small areas of progress instead of large ones increases motivation and adherence to goals.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 16, 2012

2 repressor genes identified as essential for placental development

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered two essential repressor genes, E2f7 and E2f8, that control cell proliferation in the placenta. The absence of these genes leads to overcrowded and poorly organized cells, hindering embryonic development.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 16, 2012

Mechanical tissue resuscitation technology shows promise

Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have developed a new device called mechanical tissue resuscitation (MTR) that uses negative pressure to reduce cell death and improve brain function after traumatic brain injury. The technology showed significant promise in reducing brain swelling and preserving more than 50% of damaged...

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalNeurosurgery·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Expanded study will track adolescent behavior on Facebook

A large-scale study will analyze the content of Facebook posts from a sample of 200 adolescents to examine relationships, social adjustment, and psychological health. The research aims to better understand the potential benefits and risks of social media use among teens.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateApr 16, 2012

Aging of the brain: Genetic modifications now identified

Researchers have identified genetic mutations linked to hippocampal shrinkage, a recognized biological marker of Alzheimer's disease. The study found that these mutations affect genes involved in cell death, embryonic development, and neuronal migration.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 16, 2012

AGU journal highlights for April 16, 2012

Scientists have identified active faults in the Pacific Northwest region, which could produce earthquakes with magnitudes between 6 and 6.5. A volcano in Greece has also reawakened, causing significant swelling of the land near the caldera, suggesting an influx of magma into a chamber below the surface.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 16, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bristol researchers solve 70-year-old mystery

Researchers at the University of Bristol have solved the 70-year-old mystery of stipitatic acid synthesis by identifying genes responsible for its production. The discovery has far-reaching implications for understanding organic chemistry and potentially leads to new drugs with antibacterial and antimalarial properties.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Genetically engineered compound for back pain falls short

A Johns Hopkins-led study found that etanercept, a genetically engineered small-protein drug, does not provide better relief for sciatica back pain compared to steroid injections. In the study, patients who received epidural steroid injections reported more significant pain relief and improved overall symptoms after one month.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 16, 2012

More baby boomers facing old age alone

A study by Bowling Green State University's National Center for Family and Marriage Research found that one-third of adults aged 45-63 are unmarried, with a more than 50% increase since 1980. Single baby boomers face economic and health vulnerabilities, including poverty, disability, and lack of health insurance.

SourceBowling Green State University·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 16, 2012

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for April 17, 2012, issue

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has released a tip sheet on screening and treatment of chronic kidney disease, concluding that regular screening offers no clear benefits. In contrast, preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in preventing HIV infection among high-risk men who have sex with men (MSM). The ACP also notes that...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 16, 2012

Pill reduced number of MS lesions in Phase II trial

A Phase II clinical trial found that an oral drug called ONO-4641 reduced the number of lesions in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study showed significant decreases in Gd-enhancing brain lesions, with doses of 0.05mg, 0.10mg, and 0.15mg resulting in 82%, 92%, and 77% fewer lesions compared to placebo.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 16, 2012

Study identifies potential treatment for lethal childhood leukemia

A study has identified a promising treatment approach for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), a highly aggressive childhood cancer. The dual PI3K gamma/delta inhibitor CAL-130 significantly prolonged survival in mouse models and prevented proliferation of human T-ALL cells, setting the stage for clinical trials.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Replication of immunodeficiency virus in humans

Researchers found that HIV-1 replication in human tissues increases with a single amino acid change in the Gag protein. This adaptation is crucial for efficient viral replication and may have played a role in the emergence of HIV/AIDS.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 16, 2012

Pollen levels are rising across Europe

Research led by Prof. Annette Menzel found that airborne pollen concentrations have risen sharply in cities across Europe, particularly in urban areas, where the increase is three percent per year. Climate change and warmer temperatures are seen as key factors driving this trend, with rural areas also expected to be affected.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 16, 2012

Target set on cancer gene MCL1

Researchers have developed compounds that repress MCL1's activity and highlighted a companion gene that predicts tumor dependence on the gene. These tools suggest a path toward new therapeutics directed at MCL1, potentially effective in treating tumors where both genes are highly expressed.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 16, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Asteroid craters on Earth give clues in search for life on Mars

Scientists discovered tiny organisms thriving deep beneath a US asteroid impact site, supporting the idea that crater environments can harbor microbes. The researchers believe similar conditions exist on Mars, with drilling beneath craters potentially uncovering signs of life.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalAstrobiology·DateApr 16, 2012

Alcoholism's short-term effects on memory functioning are harmful

A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that alcoholism impairs associative memory, a component of episodic memory, which is essential for remembering face-name associations. Working memory, another short-term memory system, is also affected, leading to difficulties in holding information in mind.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Too much information: When does adding mildly favorable details dilute the big message?

A new study found that people tend to perceive bundles with both highly and mildly favorable components as less valuable than individual items. This 'presenter's paradox' affects product domains such as music and hotel advertisements, leading consumers to overvalue the bundle only when it has a high value component

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Study dusts sugar coating off little-known regulation in cells

Researchers have increased knowledge of the O-GlcNAc regulatory system, a little-known mechanism that regulates proteins in cells. The study found hundreds of proteins modified by O-GlcNAc, which suggests a larger coordination between the O-GlcNAc and phosphate-based regulatory systems.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2012

X-rays create a window on glass formation

Scientists have visualized the transformation of powder mixtures into molten glass using X-ray microtomography. The study revealed that contact between grains determines whether a mixture turns into liquid glass, and that sodium carbonate plays a key role in initiating chemical reactions.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Stress about wife's breast cancer can harm a man's health

A recent study found that men who reported the highest levels of stress in relation to their wives' breast cancer were at the highest risk for physical symptoms and weaker immune responses. The researchers suggest that clinicians caring for breast cancer patients could help their patients by considering the caregivers' health as well.

SourceOhio State University·DateApr 16, 2012

Countries that best prepare math teachers share similarities

The study found that countries like Taiwan and Singapore prepare math teachers better due to rigorous high school math instruction, highly selective university programs, and a more attractive teaching profession. This suggests that university-based teacher education programs are effective in preparing math teachers.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 16, 2012

Can social media detect the changes in public mood?

Researchers analyzed Twitter data to detect changes in public mood, finding a significant increase in negative emotions following government spending cuts and summer 2011 riots. The study suggests that social media can provide insights into public sentiment, but its accuracy is limited compared to human assessment.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateApr 16, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Mayo Clinic breast cancer study finds new type of mutation

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered a new class of molecular mutation in various forms of breast cancer, which may shed light on the development and growth of different types of breast tumors. Fusion transcripts, the mutated forms of RNA, could provide a way to identify tumor subtypes and offer new strategies for treatment.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 16, 2012

Why does simply trusting your feelings lead to much better predictions?

A study by Michel Tuan Pham, Leonard Lee, and Andrew T. Stephen found that individuals who trusted their feelings were better able to predict future events than those with less trust. The 'emotional oracle effect' was proven across various predictions, including weather, stock market movements, and movie success.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 16, 2012

When do consumers react to social exclusion with charitable behavior?

A new study found that consumers rejected by others are more likely to volunteer or donate to a worthy cause, while those ignored tend to engage in conspicuous consumption. The researchers propose that this is because people who feel rejected attempt to reconnect with society through prosocial behavior.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

UWM discovery advances graphene-based electronics

Researchers at UWM create a semiconducting material called graphene monoxide (GMO) from graphene oxide, which could revolutionize electronics. The discovery pushes carbon materials closer to replacing traditional wires in devices.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 16, 2012

Scientists find neural stem cell regulator

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found that a lack of a specific gene interrupts neural tube closure, a condition that can lead to serious birth defects. The study reveals new insights into neural tube development and opens up a new pathway for understanding how neural tube defects occur.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 16, 2012

IU, Regenstrief automated system aims to improve child health

Researchers at IU School of Medicine and Regenstrief Institute created an automated system called CHICA to streamline pediatric care. CHICA uses risk factor data to alert physicians to potential issues, allowing them to focus on individual children's needs.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Adolescents can benefit from 12-step involvement

Research found that adolescent attendance and involvement in 12-step meetings, such as AA and NA, promote greater abstinence among young people. Attending meetings at least once a week or more significantly improves substance use outcomes.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateApr 16, 2012

Therapy exploits 'addiction' of leukemia cells

Researchers identify non-classical oncogenes critical for leukemia cell survival and develop a strategy targeting these molecules, potentially reducing toxicity of current treatments. Dual inhibition of PI3K subtypes supports cancer cell death in mice and human tumor cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 16, 2012

Rose-colored glasses: Are optimistic consumers more likely to trust salespeople?

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research suggests that people who believe the world is a just place trust salespeople more after making a purchase. The authors examined how consumers balance trust and protecting themselves from bad decisions, finding that optimism plays a crucial role in this process.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 16, 2012

Fiber protects against cardiovascular disease -- especially in women

A study from Lund University found that women who eat high-fibre diets have a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease, with a 25% decrease compared to those on low-fibre diets. The researchers also discovered that men may not benefit from high fibre intake in the same way.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Research reveals 1 of the earliest farming sites in Europe

Researchers have found evidence of cereal-based agriculture and domesticated animals at Vashtëmi, a site in southeastern Albania that dates back to 6,500 BC. This discovery suggests that early farmers in the region preferred resource-rich settings, such as wetland edges, to establish pioneer farming villages.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 16, 2012

Salt levels in fast food vary significantly between countries

A study by an international team of researchers found significant variations in salt levels among fast foods sold by major companies across developed countries. The study analyzed data on over 2,100 food items from six companies and found that some countries had much higher sodium content than others.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Prenatal exposure to air pollution linked to childhood obesity

A Columbia University study finds pregnant women exposed to high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are more likely to have obese children. Children of mothers with high PAH exposure were nearly twice as likely to be obese at age 5 and 7, with an average weight gain of 2.4 lbs.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 16, 2012

Omega-3 fatty acids not associated with beneficial effects in multiple sclerosis

A randomized controlled trial found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation had no beneficial effects on disease activity in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study included 92 patients who received either omega-3 fatty acids or a placebo for six months, followed by interferon beta treatment for another 18 months.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

JCI early table of contents for April 16, 2012

Researchers study the origins of HIV/AIDS, revealing that SIV replication in human tissues is crucial to viral efficiency. In contrast, a new study finds that autoantibodies against citrullinated proteins contribute to bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 16, 2012

2012 Hannover Messe: Innovations by KIT

KIT showcases algae engineering platform, laser technologies for battery production, electronic drawbar for agricultural machines, and organic computing system for tractors. Algae can convert sunlight into chemical energy, reducing CO2 emissions.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateApr 16, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Diesel technologies drastically cut emissions under real-world conditions

Diesel technologies have drastically cut particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions in new tractor trailer trucks, with reductions of 98% for NOx and 95% for PM. The emission cuts are attributed to exhaust gas recirculation and selective catalytic reduction technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateApr 16, 2012

University of Toronto biologists predict extinction for organisms with poor quality genes

Biologists at the University of Toronto found that individuals with low-quality genes can produce offspring with even more inferior chromosomes, possibly leading to extinction. The study suggests that this could result in a 'mutational meltdown' that devastates endangered populations and increases health problems.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2012

Nanosponges soak up oil again and again

Researchers at Rice University and Penn State University discovered a material that can absorb oil spilled in water due to the addition of boron to carbon nanotubes. The nanosponges have a high surface area, conduct electricity, and can be manipulated with magnets.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 16, 2012

Study recommends ways to evaluate end-of-life care in nursing homes

A new study suggests creating quality measures for end-of-life care in nursing homes to inform consumers and incentivize improvements. The study proposes two quality measures: hospital transfer rates and hospice care usage, which can be calculated from existing data.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Palliative Medicine·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Promiscuous queen bees maintain genetic diversity

Promiscuous queen bees on Hainan Island and other locations keep their colonies healthy by maintaining a diverse gene pool. By mating with multiple males, they ensure the combination of complementary sex determination genes is kept diverse.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 16, 2012

New study traces the evolutionary history of what mammals eat

A new study has traced the evolutionary history of mammal diets, revealing that omnivores, including primates, bears, and dogs, came from ancestors that primarily ate plants. The study found that diet is linked to species diversification, with plant-eaters proliferating faster than meat-eaters.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2012

Some patients do not walk after surgery despite encouragement

A study by Loyola Medicine found that despite encouragement, some patients do not walk after surgery, with median steps recorded at 80. Early discontinuation of catheters and IV fluids, as well as improved pain management, have the potential to increase walking and overall outcomes for these patients.

SourceLoyola Medicine·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Researcher explores the 'word of mouth' paradox

Sarah Moore's research finds that analyzing emotional experiences reduces emotions, while analyzing practical experiences amplifies them. For positive experiences, it's best to relive the emotion without rationalizing, while cognitive experiences benefit from analysis and reflection.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 16, 2012

University of Miami grad student receives NSF GRF to study impact of ocean acidification

Rachael Heuer, a University of Miami graduate student, has received an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship to investigate how Gulf toadfish cope with ocean acidification. Her research findings indicate that toadfish exposed to elevated CO2 levels lose base from their bodies, affecting their pH balance and health.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateApr 16, 2012

That is why plants grow towards the light!

Researchers at VIB discovered a new transport mechanism for auxin, allowing plants to direct their growth towards the light and absorb sunlight efficiently. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient crop growth and higher yields by regulating auxin levels in specific areas.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateApr 16, 2012

How Parkinson's disease starts and spreads

A team studied mice with a mutated form of alpha-synuclein, finding that injected clumps accelerated disease onset and severity. The clumps seemed to hijack brain signals, spreading throughout the brain.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 16, 2012
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.

Ammonites found mini oases at ancient methane seeps

Research found that ammonites made homes in unique environments surrounding methane seeps, forming integral part of interwoven communities. Isotope analysis revealed that these ancient mollusks spent their whole lives in these ecosystems.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalGeology·DateApr 16, 2012