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Science News for April 9, 2012


Head and body lice appear to be the same species, genetic study finds

A new genetic study reveals that head and body lice are the same species, despite their distinct characteristics. The research compared protein-coding genes expressed during both life cycles, finding only minor differences in sequences.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalInsect Molecular Biology·DateApr 9, 2012

Researcher finds faster, cheaper way to cool electronic devices

A North Carolina State University researcher has created a more efficient cooling method for electronic devices using a copper-graphene composite. The new material cools devices up to 25% faster than current materials and reduces costs by replacing expensive copper with graphene.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMetallurgical and Materials Transactions B·DateApr 9, 2012

Loss of predators in Northern Hemisphere affecting ecosystem health

Research conducted by Oregon State University reveals that the loss of predators in the Northern Hemisphere has led to an increase in populations of moose, deer, and other large herbivores. This surge in population density is crippling young tree growth and reducing biodiversity, contributing to deforestation and reduced carbon sequest...

SourceOregon State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·DateApr 9, 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.

Penn study cautions use of drugs to block 'niacin flush'

Researchers at Penn Medicine caution against blocking the effects of PGD2 on DP1 in patients prone to cardiovascular disease, particularly those taking niacin. This is due to concerns that it may enhance platelet activation and lead to increased risk of heart attacks.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 9, 2012

JCI early table of contents for April 9, 2012

Researchers have made significant advancements in treating autoimmune diabetes by harnessing the power of gut bacteria. Additionally, studies on cancer treatment and tumor growth have revealed that vascular normalization can prevent dangerous side effects while enhancing anti-tumor effects. Furthermore, scientists have discovered a coo...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 9, 2012

Consumerism and its antisocial effects can be turned on -- or off

Research reveals that materialism activates problematic patterns in wellbeing, including negative affect and social disengagement, regardless of personality. By framing consumerism, people show decreased pro-social activities and increased competitiveness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 9, 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.

SDO and STEREO spot something new on the sun

Researchers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center discovered a unique solar pattern, dubbed 'coronal cells,' in the sun's corona. These cells are characterized by bright centers and dark boundaries, occurring in areas between coronal holes and filament channels, with implications for magnetic fields and solar wind emission.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 9, 2012

'uok?' Text messages can soothe the disconnected soul

A UC Berkeley psychologist has found that even automated text messages can provide emotional support and comfort to depressed patients. The study's results show that patients who received regular text messages felt more connected and cared for, with improved moods and reduced stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateApr 9, 2012

Cancer patients prefer risky treatments with larger rewards to 'safe bets'

A study reveals that cancer patients overwhelmingly prefer risky treatments with a chance of longer survival to safer options. This approach is driven by patients' desire for hope and limited remaining life expectancy, indicating a shift in how value should be defined from the patient's perspective.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 9, 2012

Offering lung cancer screening as an insurance benefit would save lives at a relatively low cost

A new study by Rush University Medical Center found that lung cancer screening with low-dose spiral CT scans can detect early-stage disease and reduce cancer-related deaths. The study estimates that commercial insurers should consider providing this benefit to high-risk individuals, which could lead to significant cost savings.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 9, 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.

Social stress changes immune system gene expression in primates

A new study found that social stress changes the expression of nearly 1,000 genes in rhesus macaques, affecting their immune response and other functions. The researchers discovered significant differences in gene expression between high-ranking and low-ranking females, suggesting a strong link between social environment and biology.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2012

Black flies may have a purpose after all

Researchers at the University of Georgia discovered a protein in black fly saliva that inhibits clotting and reduces inflammation. This finding has potential applications for treating patients recovering from heart attacks and developing a vaccine against river blindness.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 9, 2012

Study examines adherence to colorectal cancer screening recommendations

A randomized clinical trial found that patients given a choice between fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and colonoscopy completed CRC screening more often than those assigned to colonoscopy alone. Racial/ethnic differences in screening completion rates were observed, with African-Americans having the lowest rate.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 9, 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.

A bit touchy: Plants' insect defenses activated by touch

A new study at Rice University reveals that plant defenses are enhanced when plants are touched, triggering an insect defense response. This response is mediated by the plant hormone jasmonate, which plays a critical role in initiating plant defenses against insect-eating insects and some fungal infections.

SourceRice University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 9, 2012

MU researchers find identical DNA codes in different plant species

A team of University of Missouri researchers used a groundbreaking computer algorithm to compare the genomes of six plants and six animals, finding identical DNA sequences for the first time. The discovery could help solve mysteries of plant evolution and improve techniques for creating medicines and crops.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2012

Maternal obesity, diabetes associated with autism, other developmental disorders

A major study found strong links between maternal diabetes, obesity, and the likelihood of having a child with autism or another developmental disorder. Mothers with diabetes were nearly twice as likely to have a child with developmental delays, while obese mothers were 1-2/3 times more likely to have an autistic child.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 9, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Digestibility and nutritional value of whey co-products for weanling pigs

Researchers found that whey permeate contains less metabolizable energy than whey powder but still provides a high concentration of lactose. The inclusion of whey products in weanling pig diets can provide more options for swine producers, according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateApr 9, 2012

Job injuries among youth prompt calls for better safety standards

A recent report highlights the dangers faced by US youth in the workplace, with dozens dying and thousands injured annually due to poorly regulated environments. The Colorado School of Public Health is advocating for stronger federal oversight and research into preventing workplace injuries among young people.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPublic Health Reports·DateApr 9, 2012

Study reports 2-year outcomes of diabetic macular edema treatment

A randomized controlled trial found that bevacizumab treatment improved visual acuity and reduced symptoms of diabetic macular edema compared to traditional macular laser therapy. The study suggests a potential long-term benefit of bevacizumab in managing persistent DME.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateApr 9, 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.

OceanScope: Private-science collaboration to provide critical ocean information

The OceanScope project combines the ocean-observing community and the global shipping industry to study ocean circulation dynamics and fill observational gaps. By leveraging commercial ships like Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas, the partnership aims to create a cost-effective opportunity for systematic long-term observation.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateApr 9, 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.

Caution needed when curbing overuse of healthcare resources, study suggests

A new study suggests that policies to reduce healthcare costs may compromise quality care by depriving patients of needed services. The research found that regions with high rates of inappropriate imaging also had high rates of appropriate imaging, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 9, 2012

What's in a name?

A study found that people with more socially-accepted mental illnesses, such as depression and mild mood disorders, receive less support from family members and friends. In contrast, those with severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder face greater rejection and discrimination.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateApr 9, 2012

Changes in monkeys' social status affect their genes

A study of rhesus macaques found that their social status correlates with gene expression patterns across a range of genes, with lower-ranking individuals showing signs of chronic stress and altered immune function. The study estimates that gene expression can predict an individual's social status with 80% accuracy.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2012

Immune cells, 'macrophages' become activated by body temperature

Researchers discovered that macrophages produce hydrogen peroxide, which activates the temperature sensor TRPM2 at normal body temperature. This mechanism enhances phagocytic activity and may lead to new treatment strategies for infection.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 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.

UCF scientists use nanotechnology to hunt for hidden pathogens

Researchers at UCF have developed a novel technique using nanoparticles coated with DNA markers to detect pathogens in human tissue, potentially giving doctors a faster and more accurate tool. The new method is effective at picking up even small amounts of a pathogen and takes hours instead of weeks or months to deliver results.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 9, 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.

Diet may treat some gene mutations

Scientists have developed a new technique to determine which patients with homocystinuria are most likely to respond to vitamin B6 treatment based on their genotypes. The study correlates specific gene mutations with disease severity and may help physicians prescribe treatment based on genotype.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateApr 9, 2012

Opening the gate to robust quantum computing

Researchers at Ames Laboratory overcome major hurdle in quantum information processing by decoupling individual qubits from their environment. This breakthrough enables robust quantum computation with solid-state devices, promising faster and more precise processing than classical computers.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 9, 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.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A systematic review of 94 trials found that drugs are effective in achieving continence and improving quality of life, but with small improvements and frequent side effect discontinuation. Fesoterodine was more effective than tolterodine, while solifenacin showed the lowest rates of treatment discontinuation due to adverse effects.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 9, 2012

Genetic regulator of fat metabolism and muscle fitness discovered

Case Western Reserve researchers identify Kruppel-like Factor 15 (KLF15) as a key player in the body's ability to burn fat during exercise, increasing muscle force production. The discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind exercise benefits and may lead to therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2012

New finding offers neurological support for Adam Smith's 'theories of morality'

Researchers found that the insular cortex, linked to social preferences and altruism, plays a key role in egalitarian behavior. The study provides neural support for Adam Smith's 'theory of moral sentiments' and suggests a broader view of morality as connected to environmental relationships.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 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.

New research speaks to educational challenges

At the AERA 2012 Annual Meeting, researchers present findings on various education topics, including public understanding of science, bullying, and teacher quality. The meeting aims to advance knowledge about education and improve educational outcomes for all students.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·DateApr 9, 2012

A better tool to diagnose tuberculosis

A new diagnostic tool for tuberculosis (TB) offers improved accuracy and speed, allowing for faster treatment. The Xpert MTB/RIF assay is a fully automated test that determines TB infection and multidrug-resistant strain in under an hour.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateApr 9, 2012

800-year-old farmers could teach us how to protect the Amazon

A 2,000-year-old study reveals that indigenous people in the Amazon savannas farmed sustainably without using fire, conserving soil nutrients and organic matter. This labor-intensive approach to farming could be a model for modern raised-field agriculture, reducing carbon emissions and providing food security.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 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.

Loyola study debunks common myth that urine is sterile

Researchers at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine found bacteria in the bladders of some healthy women, challenging the common belief that normal urine is sterile. The study also revealed that standard urine collection methods can be contaminated by vaginal bacteria.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateApr 9, 2012

Moving towards a better treatment for autoimmune diabetes

Researchers have made a breakthrough in treating autoimmune diabetes using genetically modified gut bacteria, increasing the frequency of cured mice compared to traditional methods. The new approach has no adverse side effects and allows the immune system to function normally.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 9, 2012

Barbara Romanowicz wins top honor in seismology

Barbara Romanowicz, a renowned seismologist and UC Berkeley professor, has made groundbreaking contributions to global seismology. Her research has been instrumental in advancing body-wave studies of the inner core and normal-mode studies of the Earth's density distribution.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 9, 2012

UCSB study shows forest insects and diseases arrive in US via imported plants

A UCSB study found that 70 percent of the most damaging non-native forest insects and diseases in US forests originated from imported live plants. The study emphasizes the importance of improving bio-security measures to mitigate the environmental impact of global trade.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 9, 2012

Sexual reproduction brings long-term benefits, study shows

A study by University of Edinburgh researchers found that sexual reproduction allows for the weeding out of damaging DNA elements within a few generations. This leads to healthier individuals flourishing and passing on their DNA, while weaker ones are more likely to die without reproducing.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateApr 9, 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.

On the move

Researchers at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research found that the Arp2/3 complex is essential for forming lamellipodia, which are crucial for cell migration. The study used genetic disruption to investigate the function of Arp2/3 in fibroblast cell motility.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateApr 9, 2012