Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 18, 2012


NIST/UMass study finds evidence nanoparticles may increase plant DNA damage

Researchers have found evidence that engineered nanoparticles can accumulate in plants and cause DNA damage. The study tested cupric oxide nanoparticles on radish and ryegrass, finding increased DNA base lesions and cellular uptake of copper in plant root cells.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 18, 2012
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.

It's the network!

Researchers at Northwestern University develop a new theory of networks, establishing relationships between disparate topics such as friendship paradoxes and material properties. The study reveals that cascading processes can be controlled and collective behavior depends on network properties, opening new avenues for disease treatment ...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhysics Today·DateApr 18, 2012

Presentation of 1-year IVAN and 2-year CATT study results

The presentation presents one-year IVAN and two-year CATT trial results evaluating the efficacy of Lucentis and Avastin in treating age-related macular degeneration. The studies demonstrate Lucentis' effectiveness in reducing edema and improving vision.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·DateApr 18, 2012

Bioreactor redesign dramatically improves yield

Scientists at Ben-Gurion University have created bioreactors that increase microalgae biomass yields dramatically. The innovative design, which synchronizes photosynthesis with flow patterns and illumination, has the potential to make microalgae an economically viable source of renewable energy.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 18, 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.

New findings in breast cancer

A recent study published in PNAS contradicts the prevailing belief that basal-like cells are responsible for invasive tumors. Luminal-like cells, previously thought to lack stem cell properties, have been found to be highly tumorigenic and capable of generating larger tumors than their basal-like counterparts.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2012

Reminders of secular authority reduce believers' distrust of atheists

A recent study published in Psychological Science found that reminding people about secular authority decreases their distrust of atheists. The research suggests that when individuals are reminded of the role of government and law in maintaining social order, they become less negative towards atheists.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 18, 2012

Photoreceptor transplant restores vision in mice

Scientists at University College London have successfully transplanted photoreceptors into adult mice with degenerate retinas, restoring their vision. The study suggests that this approach could lead to effective treatments for thousands of people affected by degenerative eye disorders.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 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.

Kids get more active when given more toy choices, studies show

Two University at Buffalo studies found that giving children more toy choices increases their physical play time by nearly 200% for girls. The research also showed that providing autonomy and mastery in toy selection motivates children to be physically active, especially when combined with exergames.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateApr 18, 2012

Tasmanian tiger suffered low genomic diversity

Scientists sequenced the Tasmanian tiger genome, revealing extremely low genetic variability due to geographical isolation. This limited genetic makeup makes the species highly susceptible to diseases and extinction.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 18, 2012

Victims of online dating scams feel doubly traumatized

A study by University of Leicester scientist Professor Monica Whitty found that online dating scammers use basic marketing techniques to groom victims, leading to feelings of a genuine relationship. The research also reveals that people with strong romantic beliefs and idealized views of partners are most likely to fall prey to online ...

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateApr 18, 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.

Autologous bone marrow-derived mononuclear cell transplants can reduce diabetic amputations

Researchers found that autologous bone marrow-derived mononuclear cell transplants can significantly induce vascular growth, reducing the number of amputations in patients with diabetes suffering from critical limb ischemia. The study showed a significant increase in neovasculogenesis and a decrease in PAD mortality.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 18, 2012

Hormone levels higher for soccer fans watching a game, but not upon win

A study published in PLOS ONE found that soccer fans' testosterone and cortisol levels rise when watching a game, regardless of age, gender, or interest level. However, cortisol levels only increased for dedicated young male fans who perceived a strong threat to their social esteem if their team didn't win.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 18, 2012
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.

Saving forests? Take a leaf from insurance industry's book

A group of environmental scientists suggest applying insurance policies and premiums to strengthen the REDD scheme, addressing leakage, permanence, and additionality issues. This new scheme, iREDD, aims to protect forests and promote biodiversity by ensuring both buyers and sellers are protected.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalConservation Letters·DateApr 18, 2012

Genetic similarity promotes cooperation -- new study

Researchers from the University of Leicester discovered a new mechanism for cooperation in simple organisms, where individuals prefer those who resemble themselves. This 'similarity discrimination' effect can evolve quickly and powerfully in many social encounters, solving the long-standing puzzle of natural selection.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateApr 18, 2012

Jellyfish on the rise: UBC study

A global study by University of British Columbia researchers found increasing jellyfish populations in 62% of the world's coastal ecosystems, including East Asia and Antarctica. The study also notes decreases in jellyfish abundance in seven per cent of coastal regions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalHydrobiologia·DateApr 18, 2012

Daily physical activity may reduce Alzheimer's disease risk at any age

A new study by Rush University Medical Center found that daily physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. The study, which tracked the activities of 716 older individuals over 3.5 years, showed that those in the bottom 10% of daily physical activity were more than twice as likely t...

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateApr 18, 2012
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.

How selective hearing works in the brain

Scientists from UCSF used brain recordings to decode which speaker a subject was listening to, even when multiple voices were present. The study sheds light on the human brain's ability to focus on one voice in noisy environments, with implications for language learning disorders and neuroprosthetic devices.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2012

Researchers discover non-surgical test for brain cancer

A new non-surgical test has been developed to diagnose and monitor brain tumors without surgery, providing a significant breakthrough in treatment options for patients. The test uses microRNA profiling of cerebrospinal fluid to determine the presence of glioblastoma, the most common and lethal type of brain tumor.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateApr 18, 2012

Meat eating led to earlier weaning, helped humans spread across globe

A recent study found that carnivorous mammals, including humans, tend to have shorter breast-feeding periods than herbivorous or omnivorous species. This may be due to the higher-quality diet that allows for earlier brain development and weaning. The research suggests that meat-eating played a crucial role in human evolution and popula...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 18, 2012
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.

Green-glowing fish provides new insights into health impacts of pollution

Researchers have created a transgenic zebrafish that reacts to environmental estrogens by producing fluorescent signals, revealing new insights into the effects of pollution on human health. The study found responses in previously unknown tissues, including skeletal muscle and eyes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 18, 2012

Live fast, die young

A recent study found that plant species living in urban backyards are closer related to each other and live shorter than those in rural areas. The study, conducted by Jeannine Cavender-Bares and Sonja Knapp, analyzed the diversity of plant species in private yards in Minneapolis and compared it to nearby natural ecosystems.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalEcology·DateApr 18, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Lactating tsetse flies models for lactating mammals?

Researchers discovered that a key enzyme in the milk of lactating tsetse flies functions similarly to mammalian enzymes, making them a potential model for studying lipid metabolism during mammalian lactation. Reduced levels of this enzyme led to poor health in offspring, suggesting targeting it could aid population reduction efforts.

SourceSociety for the Study of Reproduction·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateApr 18, 2012

Scripps Research Institute scientists develop antidote for cocaine overdose

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have developed an injectable solution that protects mice from cocaine overdose, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of a human antibody against cocaine. The treatment shows promise in reducing mortality rates and signs of overdose in both preliminary tests.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateApr 18, 2012

Use less water, producing energy and fertilizer at the same time

Researchers developed a modern water treatment plant using rainwater and treated wash water for personal needs. Vacuum sewage systems significantly reduce water consumption and lower costs. The DEUS technology recovers biogas, produces fertilizer, and benefits regions with extreme water shortages

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateApr 18, 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.

Carrot but no stick for a healthy child

Norwegian researchers recommend parents provide healthy food options, involve kids in cooking and shopping, and avoid restrictive rules. The study found daily fruit and vegetable consumption among Norwegian children is below recommended levels, sparking concerns.

SourceUniversity of Stavanger·JournalBMC Medical Research Methodology·DateApr 18, 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.

Voice disorder productivity losses comparable to chronic diseases

Research from Duke University Medical Center finds that patients with voice problems experience nearly as many days of short-term disability claim and work productivity losses as those with chronic conditions. The study reveals that up to 40 lost workdays and $3,400 in short-term disability payments occur annually due to dysphonia.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateApr 18, 2012

Modular robots win NSF funding

A robotics company, Barobo, has received $500,000 in funding from the National Science Foundation to develop its modular robot technology into a commercial product. The grant aims to make Mobot a useful tool for teaching robotics in schools, potentially starting with third-grade classes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateApr 18, 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.

A new kind of quantum junction

Researchers at RIKEN Advanced Science Institute successfully demonstrate coherent quantum phase slip (CQPS) in a narrow superconducting wire, shedding light on an elusive phenomenon. This breakthrough enables the development of novel quantum devices that exploit CQPS functionality.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 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.

Planned dams in Amazon may have largely negative ecosystem impact

The study found that 60% of planned dams would disrupt the free-flowing nature of many Andean-Amazon rivers, threatening the region's biodiversity. Nearly half of the proposed dams were classified as high impact, highlighting the urgent need for strategic planning and evaluation of new dams.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 18, 2012

PRB at Wayne State/DMC discover window of opportunity to prevent cerebral palsy

A new study published in Science Translational Medicine suggests that an anti-inflammatory drug delivered via a nanodevice can improve CP symptoms in animal models. The findings indicate a window of opportunity for postnatal treatment to prevent the condition, with potential implications for future treatments of neurological disorders.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 18, 2012
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.

Get moving: Daily exercise may reduce Alzheimer's disease risk at any age

A study published in Neurology found that daily physical exercise and low-intensity activities like cooking and washing dishes can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. People in the bottom 10% of daily activity were more than twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's, highlighting the importance of regular movement.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 18, 2012

Scientists rewrite rulebook on breast cancer in landmark global study

Researchers have reclassified breast cancer into 10 subtypes based on genetic features, allowing doctors to predict tumor behavior and tailor treatment. The study also discovered several completely new genes linked to breast cancer, which could lead to the development of new drugs and treatments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2012

Scientists trace evolutionary history of what mammals eat

Researchers traced the evolution of mammalian diets across all species, including omnivores, and found that while some groups maintained steady diets, others changed their feeding strategies over time. Today's omnivores originated from ancestors primarily eating plants or animals but not both.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2012

Nature's billion-year-old battery key to storing energy

Concordia physicists have modified a battery-like enzyme to store energy for hours, not seconds. This breakthrough uses natural systems to develop sustainable, carbon-neutral energy converting systems that could lead to new medical applications.

SourceConcordia University·DateApr 18, 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.

Kidney stone mystery solved

New research reveals that a common genetic variation in claudin-14 increases the risk of kidney stones. The study found that alterations in the gene's activity influence stone development when calcium or salt intake is high, leading to an increase in urine calcium levels.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateApr 18, 2012

Raising the prospects for quantum levitation

Researchers have predicted that a thin plate can be levitated using the Casimir force in certain circumstances. The repulsive force increases as the plate gets thinner, making it easier to lift, but experimental testing is needed to confirm the models.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateApr 18, 2012

Advances in personalized medicine for lung cancer

Researchers have identified potential biomarkers for personalized medicine in lung cancer, such as a test that predicts patient response to certain treatments. The findings suggest that these innovative approaches could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients with lung cancer.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 18, 2012

UCSB researchers discover particularly dangerous Salmonella

Researchers at UCSB have discovered highly virulent Salmonella bacteria that can override vaccines and pose a significant risk to food safety. The discovery may help prevent outbreaks of food poisoning and mitigate the growing cost of foodborne illness in the US, estimated at up to $14.6 billion annually.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 18, 2012

IceCube Neutrino Observatory explores origin of cosmic rays

The IceCube Neutrino Observatory has found no neutrinos emitted from gamma ray bursts, contradicting 15 years of predictions and challenging one of the two leading theories for high-energy cosmic rays. The result opens a new window on cosmic ray production and the interior processes of GRBs.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 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.

Promising developments in early diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma

Researchers have identified a microRNA, miR-625-3p, that can accurately diagnose malignant pleural mesothelioma with an accuracy of 82.4%. Additionally, high-dose radiotherapy has shown promising response rates for patients with disease confined to one side of the chest.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 18, 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.

Researchers across North America team up to find genetic markers for autism

A two-year study is underway to identify genetic biomarkers that can predict autism risk in infant siblings. Researchers are examining DNA samples from children with autism and their older siblings to determine if there are any genetic markers that could provide a more accurate estimate of the sibling's risk.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateApr 18, 2012

Nanodot-based memory sets new world speed record

Researchers created a new electronic memory technology using nanodots, achieving faster data writing and erasing than mainstream charge-storage memory products. The system uses discrete silicon nanodots to store and remove charges, enabling quick and simple data operations.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 18, 2012

Rivers flowing into the sea offer vast potential as electricity source

A new analysis reveals that pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) power-generating stations could meet the energy needs of half a billion people by tapping into the global potential of rivers flowing into the sea. This sustainable process requires no fuel and releases no greenhouse gases.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 18, 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.

Marijuana use higher in young adult smokers than previously reported

A recent survey conducted by UCSF researchers found that half of young adult tobacco smokers also use marijuana, with usage highest among Caucasians and rural residents. The study suggests that smoking cessation programs should take into account the effect of marijuana use in their treatment plans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAddiction Science & Clinical Practice·DateApr 18, 2012

Distinct 'God spot' in the brain does not exist, MU researcher says

A recent study by MU researchers suggests that the brain features a complex network of areas responsible for spiritual experiences, rather than a single 'God spot'. The study found that aspects of spiritual functioning are related to increased activity in the frontal lobe and decreased activity in the right parietal lobe.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal for the Psychology of Religion·DateApr 18, 2012

Metal oxides hold the key to cheap, green energy

A new study by Binghamton University researcher Louis Piper reveals that metal oxides can be tailored to meet specific needs, enabling efficient energy generation and flat screen display technology. By adjusting the band gap of these materials, researchers can optimize their electronic properties for various applications.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateApr 18, 2012

Use of speed and ecstasy linked to teen depression

Research of almost 4000 teens in Quebec, Canada found that secondary school kids using speed and ecstasy are prone to subsequent depression. The findings were independent of previous bouts of depressive symptoms or other drug use, suggesting additive or synergistic adverse effects of concurrent use.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 18, 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.

New medication offers hope to patients with frequent, uncontrollable seizures

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new medication, perampanel, that selectively targets proteins in the brain to control excitability and significantly reduce seizure frequency. The study, involving over 700 participants, found that roughly one-third of patients experienced a more than 50% reduction in seizures.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateApr 18, 2012

Evidence for a geologic trigger of the Cambrian explosion

The formation of the Great Unconformity may have triggered the Cambrian explosion due to changes in seawater chemistry. Biomineralization evolved as a response to increased continental weathering products, leading to the appearance of shells and skeletons in complex life.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2012

Naturopathic care can improve blood sugar, mood in diabetes

A joint study by Group Health Research Institute and Bastyr University found that type 2 diabetes patients receiving naturopathic care had lower blood-sugar levels and improved moods. Naturopathic physicians provided counseling on diet, exercise, and stress management to add to conventional care.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalBMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateApr 18, 2012

Antidote for cocaine overdose shows promise in lab tests

Scientists developed a passive vaccine that reversed cocaine overdose symptoms in laboratory mice, showing promise as a potential antidote. The vaccine uses pre-formed human antibodies against cocaine, binding to circulating molecules and preventing brain damage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateApr 18, 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.

Graphene lenses: 2-D electron shepherds

Researchers created a graphene lens that focuses electrons by controlling the focal length through geometry changes. The graphene lens uses strained graphene to shepherd electrons to a fine point, allowing for high-speed data exchange without traditional cable restrictions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 18, 2012

India-UK ICT collaboration to get £10 million funding boost

The £10 million funding will support research into low-cost solutions for rural broadband access and applications for rural health monitoring, emergency communications, and social TV-Virtual Classrooms. The ultimate aim is to develop solutions that can scale to benefit millions of users in both the UK and India.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateApr 18, 2012

First description of a triple DNA helix in a vacuum

Scientists at IRB Barcelona and BSC successfully extracted structural information from a triple DNA helix in gas phase, preserving its biological environment. This breakthrough could lead to the development of antigen therapy based on these DNA structures.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 18, 2012

U MI Tauber Institute is first winner of INFORMS UPS George D. Smith Prize

The Tauber Institute at University of Michigan is the first winner of the INFORMS UPS George D. Smith Prize, recognizing its effective and innovative preparation of students in operations research. The institute provides interdisciplinary education uniting engineering and business, preparing students for top-level practice.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateApr 18, 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.

Speed and ecstasy associated with depression in teenagers

A five-year study involving Quebec secondary school students found that recreational MDMA and meth/amphetamine use places teenagers at greater risk of experiencing depressive symptoms. The study suggests long-term negative influences of synthetic drug use on mental health.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 18, 2012

Cod has a key role in the whole Baltic Sea

A study reveals that cod population increases in central Baltic lead to expansion into adjacent marginal systems, impacting local ecosystems through trophic cascades. This phenomenon underscores the importance of linking local and regional processes for ecosystem management.

SourceSwedish Research Council·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 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.