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Science News for August 23, 2012


Is this real or just fantasy? ONR Augmented-Reality Initiative progresses

The Office of Naval Research is advancing an augmented-reality project to change the way warfighters view operational environments. The system will allow trainees to view simulated images superimposed on real-world landscapes, providing a revolutionary training capability with reduced costs and increased flexibility.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateAug 23, 2012

Changing epidemiology of rare disease links sinus irrigation with contaminated tap water, 2 deaths

A new study links nasal irrigation with contaminated tap water to rare disease Naegleria fowleri infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports two fatal cases in Louisiana where the organism was found in home water systems, highlighting the importance of using safely treated water for sinus irrigation.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateAug 23, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals human drive for fair play

A new study funded by the Wellcome Trust found that humans tend to reject unfair offers of water, even when severely thirsty. The researchers used an ultimatum game to test whether humans would accept an unequal offer of water, and found that they did so only if they subjectively felt a strong need for water.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 23, 2012

Primate of the opera: What soprano singing apes on helium reveal about the human voice

A study published in the American Journal of Physical Anthropology found that singing gibbons use the same vocal techniques as professional soprano singers. The research reveals a physiological similarity between gibbon and human voices, suggesting that complex vocal abilities evolved in humans were not due to unique modifications.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateAug 23, 2012

Cancer survival in Germany after the fall of the Iron Curtain

A study published in European Journal of Epidemiology found that cancer survival rates in Germany have aligned significantly since reunification. While there are still slight differences, they have decreased compared to the pre-reunification era.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateAug 23, 2012

Field guide to the Epstein-Barr virus charts viral paths toward cancer

Researchers created the most comprehensive study of Epstein-Barr virus genome interactions with its human host. The EBV atlas describes over 60 human transcription factors and highlights the extensive coevolution of the virus, pointing toward possible targets for future cancer and anti-viral drugs.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 23, 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.

Past tropical climate change linked to ocean circulation, says Texas A&M team

Researchers have discovered that subsurface temperatures in the western tropical Atlantic rapidly warmed during cold periods in Earth's past. This finding suggests that when the global conveyor belt slowed down, warm subsurface waters flowed southward and rapidly warmed the deep tropics, altering climate patterns globally.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2012

March Madness brings September students

Researchers found universities receive a surge of 10% more SAT scores from prospective students following a stellar sports season. This phenomenon affects all demographic backgrounds, not just certain groups like males, black students, or those who played sports in high school.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Sports Economics·DateAug 23, 2012

Language and emotion -- insights from Psychological Science

Research explores how verbalizing emotional experiences can help individuals cope with phobias and improve mood by reframing past events. The studies suggest that using certain language patterns can influence physiological arousal and overall happiness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 23, 2012

Researchers develop simplified approach for high-power, single-mode lasers

The new resonator creates purest, brightest and most powerful single-mode quantum cascade lasers in the 8-12 micron range, a wavelength of great interest for military and industrial use. The laser technology controls both wavelength and beam quality, achieving peak power over 6 watts with nearly diffraction-limited beam quality.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 23, 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.

No-till could help maintain crop yields despite climate change

Research at the US Department of Agriculture found that no-till farming can reduce yield losses caused by climate change. The study simulated different climate factors on three cropping systems, finding declines in corn and millet yields over time. No-till management helped maintain wheat yields for up to 2075.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalClimatic Change·DateAug 23, 2012

Novel microscopy method offers sharper view of brain's neural network

A team of Italian researchers has developed a new microscopy technique called confocal light sheet microscopy (CLSM) that improves the resolution and contrast of images of the brain's neural pathways. CLSM enables scientists to obtain high-resolution views of tissue samples with a resolution of a few microns and faster acquisition time.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateAug 23, 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.

Flat lens offers a perfect image

Researchers at Harvard University have created an ultrathin flat lens that focuses light without imparting distortions, approaching the physical limit set by diffraction laws. The device is scalable and simple to manufacture, making it a promising new technology for fiber-optic communications.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 23, 2012

Study helps pancreatic cancer patients make hard choices

A new study provides a quantitative look at the experience of pancreatic cancer patients, giving them concrete data to inform their treatment decisions. The study found that maximizing quality of life is crucial for these patients, who have limited time left due to the disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateAug 23, 2012

Video-gaming fish play out the advantages of groups

Researchers at Princeton University used a unique simulation to study collective motion in animal groups, finding that coordinated movements can dissuade predators. The study shows that group formation itself is an evolved defense mechanism, mirroring the behaviors of real animals.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 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.

Therapeutic avenues for Parkinson's investigated at UH

Scientists at UH Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling discovered LXRbeta, a nuclear receptor that promotes the survival of dopaminergic neurons, which are the main source of dopamine in the central nervous system. The presence of LXRbeta may offer protection against neurodegeneration of the midbrain.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2012

AGU: Link found between cold European winters and solar activity

A new study reveals a correlation between low solar activity and unusually cold winters in Central Europe, particularly along the Rhine River. The researchers used historical records of riverboat shipments and found that ten out of fourteen freezing episodes occurred during years with minimal sunspots.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 23, 2012

Cloud control could tame hurricanes, study shows

Scientists suggest cloud seeding could reduce hurricane power by a category by increasing sunlight reflection in clouds above hurricane development regions. The technique, Marine Cloud Brightening, could also lead to increased rainfall in some areas but not others.

SourceWiley·JournalAtmospheric Science Letters·DateAug 23, 2012

For mitochondria, bigger may not be better

Abnormalities in mitochondrial length promote neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, while optimal length is essential for maintaining cellular health. The study reveals a complex interplay between proteins DRP1 and actin, which are affected by defective tau protein.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateAug 23, 2012

Most mutations come from dad

Researchers found that humans inherit more than three times as many mutations from their fathers as from their mothers. The study also suggests that the mutation rate in fathers doubles with age, while there is no association with mother's age. This new insight challenges theories of human evolution and sheds light on conditions such a...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 23, 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.

More clues about why chimps and humans are genetically different

Researchers found that DNA methylation modifications may contribute to phenotypic changes in humans and chimps. The study suggests that methylation differences between the species might be linked to human disease vulnerability.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 23, 2012

Nanoparticles reboot blood flow in brain

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a nanoparticle that can restore balance to the brain's vascular system after an injury. The PEG-HCC nanoparticles immediately quench superoxide activity and allow the autoregulatory system to regain its balance, potentially treating mild brain trauma by preventing further damage.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 23, 2012

How to feed data-hungry mobile devices? Use more antennas

Researchers from Rice University unveiled a new multi-antenna technology dubbed Argos, which aims to dramatically increase network capacity by allowing cell towers to simultaneously beam signals to more than a dozen customers on the same frequency. The technology could result in a six-fold increase in network capacity and energy savings.

SourceRice University·DateAug 23, 2012
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Research: NCAA football exploits players in 'invisible labor market'

College football players participate in an invisible labor market, with the NCAA monopolizing their services. Research suggests a credible threat of unionization could lead to better financial treatment and more say in interests. An 'invisible union' is proposed as a middle-ground approach.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateAug 23, 2012

Team receives $22.5 million to shed light on the immune system

A team led by Richard Ulevitch has received a five-year project renewal from the National Institutes of Health to investigate the workings of the immune system. The grant aims to improve human diseases such as viral and bacterial infections, and inherited immune disorders.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateAug 23, 2012

Learning 1 of cancer's tricks

Researchers at Caltech have identified a specific sugar, GlcNAc, that plays a key role in keeping cancerous tumors fed. By altering the addition of carbohydrates to proteins, tumor cells can survive under harsh conditions and thrive. This finding offers new potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 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.

Cuckolded males sing louder

In a population of rock sparrows, researchers found that older and more successful males sang with higher pitches and slower tempos, while younger males sang with lower pitches and faster tempos. Cuckolded males, regardless of age, sang louder in an attempt to re-establish their pair bond with an unfaithful mate.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 23, 2012

Study identifies human melanoma stem cells

Researchers have identified melanoma stem cells marked by the enzyme ALDH, which exhibit high tumorigenicity and resistance to chemotherapy. Targeting these cells with a new therapy could boost the effectiveness of existing drugs.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalStem Cells·DateAug 23, 2012

Research on wood formation sheds light on plant biology

Scientists at North Carolina State University discovered a novel protein controller that regulates gene expression in tree cells during wood formation. The controller protein prevents abnormal growth and promotes healthy wood formation by suppressing the expression of certain genes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 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.

Prostate cancer survival rates improved since introduction of PSA testing

A new study published in The Journal of Urology reports that PSA testing has led to improved survival rates for patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer that has spread to the bones or other parts of the body. The disparity between African American and Caucasian men has been resolved, with African American men now having a compara...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateAug 23, 2012

Science: Human lungs brush out intruders

A new study reveals that human airways rely on a 'brush-like' layer to clear mucus, which protects cells from sticky mucus and captures foreign particles. The findings may lead to the development of novel therapies for lung diseases.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2012

1-molecule-thick material has big advantages

Researchers at MIT have successfully produced complex electronic components from molybdenum disulfide, a material that naturally comes with a bandgap and could enable new products such as glowing walls, clothing with embedded electronics, and glasses with built-in display screens. The discovery opens up a new realm of research on two-d...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 23, 2012

Repairing cartilage with fat: Problems and potential solutions

New research reveals that fat-derived stem cells secrete VEGF and other factors that inhibit cartilage regeneration. Pre-treating the cells with antibodies against VEGF can neutralize these effects, promoting chondrocyte survival and cartilage repair.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·DateAug 23, 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.

How does body temperature reset the biological clock?

A team of researchers from UNIGE, Switzerland, discovers a molecular mechanism that links body temperature to the expression of 'clock genes' and local oscillators. They also find that this mechanism affects detoxification and drug metabolism, with potential implications for understanding human physiology.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2012

New insights into salt transport in the kidney

The study discovered that the claudin-10 gene plays a crucial role in reabsorbing sodium chloride in the kidney. In its absence, mice exhibit elevated magnesium levels and excess calcium deposition in the kidneys, highlighting the importance of this gene in maintaining salt balance.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2012

Engineers achieve longstanding goal of stable nanocrystalline metals

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to create alloys with extremely tiny grains that remain stable even under high heat. The new material, made of tungsten and titanium, has exceptional strength and impact resistance, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 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.

New findings show some Type Ia supernovae linked to novae

A team of astronomers has discovered that at least some thermonuclear (Type Ia) supernovae originate from recurrent novae, contradicting previous theories. The study, led by Ben Dilday, reveals multiple ways to make a Type Ia supernova and has implications for understanding the differences seen in these 'standard candles'.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2012

Advantage flu virus

Researchers at Northwestern University have found that the influenza virus reduces immune system-regulating protein production in human cells by activating specific microRNAs. This discovery sheds light on a new mechanism of viral immune evasion and may lead to the development of therapeutics to preserve the immune response.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 23, 2012

NASA sees newborn Tropical Storm Joyce in the Central Atlantic

NASA has detected a newborn Tropical Storm Joyce in the Central Atlantic, with organized circulation and cold cloud top temperatures indicating strength. The storm is being affected by a dry Saharan air layer, which is unusual for tropical cyclones, and is expected to follow a southern edge of high pressure over the ocean.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 23, 2012

Vanderbilt-led study reveals racial disparities in prostate cancer care

A study led by Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center finds that black men with prostate cancer receive lower quality surgical care than white men. Black men are less likely to use high-volume surgeons and hospitals, resulting in longer hospital stays and higher mortality rates.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateAug 23, 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.

Sensor detects glucose in saliva and tears for diabetes testing

Researchers have developed a non-invasive biosensor that can detect minute concentrations of glucose in saliva, tears, and urine, with the potential to reduce the frequency of pinprick testing for diabetes. The sensor uses graphene nanosheets and platinum nanoparticles, enabling it to distinguish between glucose and other compounds.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 23, 2012

IBN develops superior fuel cell material

Researchers at IBN have developed a more powerful and longer lasting fuel cell material using a mixture of gold and copper nanoparticles. The new hybrid material can produce 5 times higher activity and much greater stability than commercial platinum catalysts.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·DateAug 23, 2012

For juvenile moose, momma's boys and girls fare best

Maternal presence is crucial for juvenile moose survival, with orphaned calves facing up to 47 times more aggression. The study's findings suggest policy changes are needed to protect young moose, highlighting the importance of conservation planning and non-invasive data collection methods.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Biology·DateAug 23, 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.

Novel technique to synthesize nanocrystals that harvest solar energy

A new video protocol has been developed to synthesize durable nanocrystals that can harvest solar energy efficiently. The technique, published in JoVE, focuses on the liquid phase synthesis of two nanocrystals that produce hydrogen gas or electricity when exposed to light.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateAug 23, 2012

Gene 'switch' may explain DiGeorge syndrome severity

Researchers discovered a 'switch' called MOZ that modifies the Tbx1 gene, essential for normal heart development, to explain variations in DiGeorge syndrome severity. The study found that MOZ activity can be influenced by environmental factors, such as diet, particularly vitamin A, which can exacerbate birth defects.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 23, 2012