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Science News for August 8, 2012


Clemson researchers collect and reuse enzymes while maintaining bioactivity

Researchers have developed a universal model for concentrating and extracting enzyme pairings, which could lead to breakthroughs in biotechnology and biomedical applications. The approach involves using baited nanoparticles to capture and recycle enzymes, allowing for efficient isolation of complex systems.

SourceClemson University·JournalSmall·DateAug 8, 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.

Natural birth -- but not C-section -- triggers brain-boosting proteins

A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that natural birth triggers the expression of a protein called UCP2 in the brains of newborns, improving brain development and function in adulthood. In contrast, C-sections impaired UCP2 expression, leading to reduced hippocampal neuron development and related behaviors.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2012

Clinical trial results support strategy for reversing type 1 diabetes

A phase I clinical trial confirms that a generic vaccine can kill autoimmune cells targeting insulin-secreting cells, temporarily restoring insulin production in patients with type 1 diabetes. The treatment pathway has been validated in humans and shows early evidence of effectiveness.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2012

Brain activity may predict teens' heavy drinking

Researchers found that kids with less brain activation initially were at greater risk for becoming heavy drinkers. Heavy drinking was linked to increased brain activity during memory tests, particularly among those who consumed four or more drinks per occasion.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateAug 8, 2012
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Stress makes men appreciate heavier women

A study published in PLOS ONE found that increased stress in men is associated with a preference for female body sizes ranging from normal to overweight. The researchers discovered that stressed men rated normal weight and overweight figures more highly than non-stressed men.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2012

Humanities mini-courses for doctors sharpen thinking and creativity

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that mini-courses on humanities topics can sharpen critical thinking skills and improve job satisfaction among physicians. The courses provided an opportunity for intellectual and social 'play,' fostering workplace satisfaction and creative, innovative thinking.

SourcePenn State·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateAug 8, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Leveraging bacteria in drinking water to benefit consumers

Researchers discovered that certain types of bacteria form biofilms on filters, breaking off into drinking water due to pH levels. Simple changes to filter cleaning and water pH can shift the balance towards beneficial bacteria, potentially improving water quality.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 8, 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.

Scientists show 2-drug combination has potential to fight cocaine addiction

A combination of naltrexone and buprenorphine has shown promise in reducing cocaine craving and blunting withdrawal symptoms in laboratory rats. This potential therapy, if proven safe and effective, would be a significant advance in treating cocaine addiction, which currently lacks FDA-approved medications.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 8, 2012

Protein that boosts longevity may protect against diabetes

A new MIT study suggests that the protein SIRT1 plays a crucial role in protecting against metabolic disorders linked to high-fat diets, including diabetes. When given a high-fat diet, mice lacking SIRT1 developed metabolic disorders much sooner than normal mice, highlighting its potential as a safeguard against obesity-linked diseases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 8, 2012

Depression linked with increased risk of peripheral artery disease

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found an association between depression and peripheral artery disease. The researchers discovered that patients who were depressed at the beginning of the study had a higher likelihood of developing PAD during follow-up. Lifestyle modifications such as being more...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 8, 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.

Hyenas that think outside the box solve problems faster

Researchers at Michigan State University found that hyenas that tried multiple solutions and took risks were more successful in solving a steel puzzle box. The study suggests that large brains may enable hyenas to think flexibly and come up with novel solutions.

SourceMichigan State University·DateAug 8, 2012

How heat helps to treat cancer

Researchers at Bangor University discovered a switch in cells that helps kill tumors with heat, which combines with an anti-cancer drug to treat localized cancers. The novel protein produced by heat modulates survival systems, and its discovery may improve heat-treatment of cancer for patients.

SourceBangor University·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateAug 8, 2012

'Exergames' not perfect, but can lead to more exercise

A recent study published in Health Education and Behavior found that most exergames provide only light-to-moderate intensity physical activity, which is insufficient to meet daily exercise recommendations. However, the games can be useful for certain populations, such as seniors or those with more suitable fitness levels.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateAug 8, 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.

New Kenyan fossils shed light on early human evolution

The discovery sheds light on early human evolution, providing a clearer picture of what our direct ancestral species looked like. The new fossils reveal that two species of Homo coexisted with Homo erectus between 1.78 and 1.95 million years ago.

SourceNational Geographic Society·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2012

Back-to-the-future process yields 'miracle wood'

Acetylated wood, a new form of sustainable wood, has been developed using a back-to-the-future technology that permanently expands cell walls to resist water absorption. The material has similar properties to modern construction materials but a smaller carbon footprint.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 8, 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.

Yoga proves to reduce depression in pregnant women, boost maternal bonding

Pregnant women experiencing depression may benefit from mindfulness yoga, which can significantly reduce depressive symptoms and improve attachment to their babies. This study provides promising evidence that yoga could be an effective alternative to pharmaceutical treatment for pregnant women showing signs of depression.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalComplementary Therapies in Clinical Practice·DateAug 8, 2012

Let's talk: The nature of the health care surrogate-clinician relationship

A new study highlights the importance of frequent and coordinated communication between healthcare providers and family members who make decisions for hospitalized older adults with impaired cognition. Surrogate decision-makers crave detailed information, emotional support, and regular updates from clinicians to alleviate stress and an...

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 8, 2012

New study finds clients want real love from sex workers

A recent study published in Men and Masculinities journal found that men who regularly visit sex workers often develop feelings of romance and love. Clients share private feelings and desires with providers, blurring the lines between physical and emotional intimacy.

SourceSAGE·JournalMen and Masculinities·DateAug 8, 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.

Student performance improves when teachers given incentives upfront

A new study at the University of Chicago found that teacher incentives can improve student academic performance. When teachers received a bonus upfront with conditions attached, students showed a significant gain of up to 10 percentiles in their scores compared to those without such incentives.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateAug 8, 2012

Boys appear to be more vulnerable than girls to the insecticide chlorpyrifos

A new study found that boys are more vulnerable to the negative effects of prenatal exposure to chlorpyrifos, a common insecticide. The research, published in Neurotoxicology and Teratology, also revealed that parental nurturing can improve working memory in both boys and girls.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNeurotoxicology and Teratology·DateAug 8, 2012

Tai Chi shown to improve COPD exercise capacity

A new study found that Tai Chi can improve exercise capacity and quality of life in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study, published in the European Respiratory Journal, suggests that Sun-style Tai chi may be as beneficial as pulmonary rehabilitation.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateAug 8, 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.

Scientists report successful vaccine developed against deadly Nipah virus

Researchers successfully developed a highly effective vaccine against the deadly Nipah virus, which has shown complete protection in African green monkeys with no evidence of disease. The vaccine, known as Hendra-sG, is a recombinant piece of the virus produced in the laboratory and can be used safely for human treatment.

SourceHenry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 8, 2012

Diversity keeps grasslands resilient to drought, climate change

A recent study found that diverse grasslands can tolerate increased periods of drought and climate change due to the presence of drought-resistant species. This diversity allows grasslands to maintain their ecological functions, including carbon sequestration, food sources for grazing animals, and temperature regulation.

SourceKansas State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 8, 2012

Cichlid fish: How does the swim bladder affect hearing?

Researchers found that specialized cichlid swim bladder extensions improve hearing by detecting higher sound frequencies, while the size of the swim bladder also plays a crucial role. The study investigated 1,300 cichlid species with varying swim bladder morphologies.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 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.

New phenomenon in nanodisk magnetic vortices

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have discovered that magnetic vortex formations in ferromagnetic nanodisks exhibit asymmetric behavior, breaking the symmetry required for vortex-based data storage devices. This finding challenges the potential application of these vortices in non-volatile Random Access Memory (RAM) systems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2012

How JFK helped Barack Obama on his way to the White House

New research suggests that Barack Obama's image is shaped by the ideals of John F. Kennedy, reflecting a presidential legacy of elegance, sophistication, and success. The study explores how Obama's self-presentation is influenced by Kennedy's iconic imagery, including the cover of Rolling Stone magazine.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalComparative American Studies An International Journal·DateAug 8, 2012

A new model for predicting recovery after spinal cord injury

A new prediction model for long-term functional outcomes after traumatic spinal cord injury is presented, combining acute functional measures with imaging factors. The model has the potential to guide treatment decisions and improve patient care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateAug 8, 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.

Snail believed extinct found in Cahaba River by student

A University of Alabama graduate student rediscovered the Oblong Rocksnail, a freshwater snail declared extinct in 2000, in the Cahaba River. The species' range has been dramatically shortened due to pollution and habitat degradation, making it vulnerable to extinction.

SourceUniversity of Alabama in Tuscaloosa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2012

The difference between a mole and shrew is in their SOX

Researchers found that moles' SOX9 expression occurs sooner in hands than feet, allowing for stronger forelegs and enlarged digging front paws. This adaptation enabled moles to thrive underground, with specialized features such as Os falciforme.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEvoDevo·DateAug 8, 2012

UK hotel industry alive with innovation

The UK hotel industry is alive with innovation, introducing new technologies and designs to improve customer service. Hotels are adopting sustainable practices, incorporating recycled materials and energy-efficient systems, to reduce their environmental impact.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateAug 8, 2012

Study finds US among few NATO nations that use animals for military training

A new study published in Military Medicine reveals that 22 of 28 NATO nations do not use animal laboratories for military medical training. Officials prefer non-animal methods, such as lifelike human simulators, due to legal prohibitions and the superiority of simulation technology.

SourcePeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)·JournalMilitary Medicine·DateAug 8, 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.

New scientific method unmasks chronic infections

Scientists have developed a new method to study how the immune system interacts with bacteria during chronic infections. The method uses 5 mm silicone tubes and combines light microscopy and electron microscopy to visualize the interaction between white blood cells and bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateAug 8, 2012

Physics and math shed new light on biology by mapping the landscape of evolution

A team of scientists proposes a new theory of evolution that combines emergent fitness landscape and curl flux to explain evolutionary dynamics. The theory provides a physical foundation for general evolution dynamics, offering insights into the Red Queen Hypothesis and the benefits of sexual reproduction.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 8, 2012

Oh, my stars and hexagons! DNA code shapes gold nanoparticles

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a DNA 'genetic code' that can shape gold nanoparticles into various forms, such as hexagons, stars, and discs. The code is based on the sequence of four DNA bases - A, T, G, and C - which bind to different facets of gold nanoseeds and direct their growth pathways.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 8, 2012

Do beavers benefit Scottish wild salmon?

A study by the University of Southampton found that beaver dams can have both negative and positive effects on fish populations. While beaver activities can temporarily impede fish movement and reduce spawning habitat, they also increase habitat diversity and abundance of invertebrates, benefiting fish.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateAug 8, 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.

Iron, vitamins could affect physical fitness in adolescents

A new study found correlations between micronutrient levels and performance on physical fitness tests in adolescents. Hemoglobin, retinol, and vitamin C were positively associated with cardiorespiratory fitness, while hemoglobin and beta-carotene were linked to muscular fitness.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateAug 8, 2012

University of Leicester announces record £7 million donation

The University of Leicester is set to receive a significant boost in cardiovascular research thanks to a record-breaking £7 million donation. This major gift will support the creation of a unique UK facility for cardiovascular science and enable researchers to develop novel tools for clinical use, ultimately benefiting patients.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateAug 8, 2012

Gum disease 4 times as common in rheumatoid arthritis patients

A study found that rheumatoid arthritis patients are four times more likely to develop gum disease, with severe cases associated with increased inflammatory markers and antibodies. Gum disease in these patients may contribute to the development and maintenance of systemic inflammation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 8, 2012

Neolithic tools provide clues for managing climate change

Archaeological tools from an ancient site outside Jerusalem provide insights into land use patterns and sustainable resource management during extreme climate change. The study, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that Neolithic humans adapted to changing environments by clearing forests for fields and grazing lands.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 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.

Scientists discover the truth behind Colbert's 'truthiness'

Researchers found that people agree more with claims when a photo is displayed, regardless of its accuracy. This phenomenon, known as 'truthiness,' has important implications for situations where people are influenced by visual cues.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateAug 8, 2012

Unusual weather events identified during the Black Saturday bushfires

The study reveals that horizontal convective rolls affected fire behaviour, introducing variability in wind, temperature, and humidity conditions. This new understanding has the potential to improve fire management and warning systems, providing a better guide for public warning systems and firefighting resources.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalQuarterly Journal of the Royal Meteorological Society·DateAug 8, 2012

Simple mathematical computations underlie brain circuits

MIT neuroscientists discovered that two major classes of brain cells repress neural activity through simple yet profound mathematical computations. The findings could help scientists understand diseases caused by imbalances in brain inhibition and excitation, including autism, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2012

Crossing 5+ time zones more than doubles illness risk for elite athletes

Research tracking 259 elite rugby players found that those competing in tournaments across multiple time zones were twice to three times as likely to get ill as on their home turf. The study suggests various stressors such as pollution, temperature, and germs may be involved in the increased risk of illness.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateAug 8, 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.

Early human ancestors had more variable diet

Researchers analyzed fossil teeth to determine the dietary preferences of three groups of hominins in South Africa. The study found that Australopithecus had a more varied diet than early Homo, while Paranthropus had a primarily herbivorous-like diet

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2012

Test vaccine successfully protects monkeys from Nipah virus

Researchers have developed a vaccine that protects African green monkeys from Nipah virus, with all nine vaccinated animals surviving a lethal challenge. The vaccine is based on a Hendra virus surface protein and is in commercial development for use in horses.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 8, 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.

NIST focuses on testing standards to support lab on a chip commercialization

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is developing testing standards for lab-on-a-chip devices to ensure accurate measurements and product quality. Key findings include the importance of controlling multiple factors, such as materials and measurement methods, in determining autofluorescence levels.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalLab on a Chip·DateAug 8, 2012

Adolescents in substance abuse programs report using other's med marijuana

A recent study by University of Colorado researchers found that 73.8% of adolescents in substance abuse treatment used medical marijuana recommended to someone else. Regular use of medical marijuana began at a younger age among these patients, and they had more severe symptoms of marijuana abuse and conduct disorder.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateAug 8, 2012

UC San Diego, Yale awarded collaborative NSF grant for Neuroscience Gateway

The project aims to make neuroscience-specific compute and software tools conveniently available to students and investigators. The NSG portal will offer a streamlined process for uploading models, retrieving and storing data, and specifying parameters for running high-performance computing-based neuronal simulations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 8, 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.

A new global warming culprit: Dam drawdowns

Researchers at Washington State University found that dams and reservoirs emit significant amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The study's findings suggest that managing drawdowns could reduce methane emissions and may even make decommissioning reservoirs a net sink for carbon.

SourceWashington State University·DateAug 8, 2012

New tools and techniques enhance laparoscopic gallbladder removal

Advances in laparoscopic surgery have improved the care of patients with gallbladder disease, offering a less invasive alternative to open surgery. New tools and techniques have enhanced surgical outcomes, including reduced recovery times and fewer complications.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateAug 8, 2012

Feeling fat may make you fat

A study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that normal-weight teenagers who perceive themselves as fat are more likely to become obese as adults. The researchers analyzed data from the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study, finding a significant association between perceived weight and actual obesity.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Obesity·DateAug 8, 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.