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Science News for February 7, 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.

Mechanism of calming hyperactivity by psychostimulant drugs identified

Researchers at SUNY Downstate Medical Center have identified the mechanism by which psychostimulant drugs reduce hyperactivity in ADHD patients. Stimulating dopamine D4 receptors in specific brain regions, such as the basal ganglia and thalamus, depresses motor activity.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateFeb 7, 2012

Fall of Communism changed mathematics in US: New study

A new study by University of Notre Dame Economist Kirk Doran examines the impact of Soviet mathematicians on US math. The research shows that Western and Eastern mathematicians developed different specializations due to Cold War institutions, affecting American math productivity.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateFeb 7, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pneumonia wonder drug: Zinc saves lives

A new study published in BMC Medicine found that zinc supplements drastically improved children's survival rates from pneumonia when used alongside standard antibiotic therapy. The treatment was especially effective for HIV-infected children, who saw a 26-fold increase in survival rate.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2012

Modern, low-energy ammunition can cause deep tissue damage

A new study found that modern low-energy handgun ammunition can inflict significant soft tissue damage, potentially causing infection and compartment syndrome. Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of this powerful new ammunition to treat high-risk gunshot injuries properly.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 7, 2012

Scripps research and technion scientists develop biological computer to encrypt and decipher images

Researchers have created a biological computer that uses biomolecules to decipher images encrypted on DNA chips, showcasing the potential for a new type of computing system. The device, based on Alan Turing's design, can process vast amounts of information in parallel, making it faster than traditional electronic computers.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 7, 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.

Cutting-edge MRI techniques for studying communication within the brain

Researchers describe three quantitative MRI techniques to characterize white matter properties, shedding light on aging, disease, and gender differences in brain function. These methods show promise in multiple sclerosis, depression, and human development.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateFeb 7, 2012

More focus on men needed in HIV prevention

Research suggests that men in sub-Saharan Africa receive fewer HIV services, leading to worse health outcomes. Efforts to engage men in HIV prevention and care are crucial to addressing these disparities and ensuring a more balanced approach to gender in the fight against AIDS.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2012

Engineers boost computer processor performance by over 20 percent

Engineers at North Carolina State University have developed a technique to boost processor performance by over 20 percent by allowing GPUs and CPUs on a single chip to collaborate. This approach enables more efficient data transfer and execution, making computers more energy-efficient.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateFeb 7, 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.

Diabetic kidney failure follows a 'ROCK'y road

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discover that ROCK1 protein activates mitochondrial fission, leading to diabetic kidney disease. The study reveals a key metabolic pathway involved in the progression of kidney disease in diabetes.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 7, 2012

Scientists 'record' magnetic breakthrough

A team of international scientists has developed a new way of magnetic recording that uses only heat to process information hundreds of times faster than current hard drive technology. This breakthrough could make future magnetic recording devices significantly faster and more energy-efficient.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 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.

Aspirin may prevent DVT and PE in joint replacement patients

A study of 1,500 patients found that aspirin reduced the incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) by 19.2%, with no complications from aspirin use. Aspirin, combined with stockings and a foot pump, is a safe and effective therapy for preventing DVT and PE in most joint replacement patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 7, 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.

UT MD Anderson, Texas A&M team up to treat canine lymphoma

A new immunotherapy for companion dogs with advanced-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma improves survival by nearly four-fold, increasing median tumor-free survival by nine months. The treatment combination prolongs survival while maintaining quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 7, 2012

Carbonized coffee grounds remove foul smells

Researchers at City College of New York develop an eco-friendly filter to remove hydrogen sulfide gas from the air, using carbonized coffee grounds. The activated carbon boosts its smell-fighting power with nitrogen from caffeine, capturing pollutants like H2S and potentially separating other toxic substances.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateFeb 7, 2012

Cirrhosis patients losing muscle mass have a higher death rate

Research reveals that cirrhosis patients losing muscle mass have a significantly shorter survival rate than those with normal muscle mass. The study's findings suggest that muscle mass should be considered alongside current scoring systems when assessing transplant list placement.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateFeb 7, 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.

Scared of a younger rival? Not for some male songbirds

Researchers found that older male white-crowned sparrows don't react strongly to young males singing in their territory, indicating they consider them less of a threat. In contrast, younger males within the same age group respond aggressively when hearing each other's songs.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 7, 2012

Vitamin D deficiency high among trauma patients

A new study reveals that 77% of trauma patients have deficient or insufficient levels of vitamin D. Researchers found a strong link between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of muscle weakness, bone fractures, and poor bone healing.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 7, 2012

Study: Breastfeeding can be tougher for women when pregnancy is unplanned

A recent study published in Current Anthropology reveals that women who did not plan their pregnancies are more likely to stop breastfeeding within three months. The research suggests that unplanned pregnancy leads to emotional and physical discomfort, causing women to resist the close physical connection required by breastfeeding.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateFeb 7, 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.

Justifying insurance coverage for orphan drugs

The article proposes an ethical framework to guide coverage decisions for expensive orphan drugs, considering the tension between saving lives and avoiding unfair advantages to identifiable patients. It suggests evaluating potential health gains in context and weighing opportunity costs to determine acceptable expenditure.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateFeb 7, 2012

NASA sees cyclone Jasmine's power and new eye

Cyclone Jasmine has developed a new eye with strongest thunderstorms near the center, causing heavy rainfall in New Caledonia and Vanuatu. The cyclone's maximum sustained winds reached 115 mph near New Caledonia, prompting warnings for the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 7, 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.

Economic factors impact orthopaedic trauma volume

A 10-year study at a regional trauma center found significant negative association between orthopaedic trauma volume and county unemployment rates of the previous year. The study, presented at the AAOS Annual Meeting, suggests economic trends impact orthopedic trauma volume.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 7, 2012

Not the black sheep of domestic animals

A study mapping sheep ancestry over 11,000 years reveals vast genetic diversity and adaptability to diverse environments. The research provides insights into the evolution of selective breeding for traits such as coat color and body size.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 7, 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.

Computer order entry systems reduce preventable adverse drug events

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that computer order entry systems significantly reduced preventable adverse drug events (ADEs) in community hospitals. The system showed a 34% reduction in preventable ADEs, but an increase in potential ADEs or near-misses following implementation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2012

Comparing yourself to others can have health impacts

Researchers found that comparing downward to others who are worse off can lead to immediate positive feelings, while upward comparisons may improve physical health measures and hope for improvement. However, the effects can be negative in both cases, highlighting the need for better understanding of social comparison dynamics.

SourcePenn State·JournalHealth Psychology Review·DateFeb 7, 2012

Osteopathic student garners national award for cleft palate research

Youssef Kousa, a fifth-year osteopathic student, has been awarded the prestigious Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award for his work on identifying causes of cleft palate. He will use this fellowship to study gene mutations and develop interventions to prevent birth defects.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 7, 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.

Nanoshell whispering galleries improve thin solar panels

Researchers at Stanford University have created tiny hollow spheres of photovoltaic nanocrystalline-silicon that harness physics to trap light, improving the performance of thin solar films. The nanoshells significantly increase light absorption over a broader spectrum of light.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2012

Risk of death from breast cancer higher among older patients

Increasing age is associated with a higher risk of death from breast cancer in postmenopausal women, particularly those over 75 years old. The study found that disease-specific mortality increases with age, even after accounting for other factors, suggesting possible undertreatment as an underlying mechanism.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 7, 2012

Governor Kasich announces 10-fold boost to Ohio's broadband network

Governor Kasich announces a 10-fold boost to Ohio's broadband network speeds, expected to advance cutting-edge research and job growth. The new 100 Gbps network will connect major metropolitan areas to national advanced networking consortiums, enabling rapid data transmission for medical research, innovation, and business.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateFeb 7, 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.

A therapist in your pocket

Researchers at Northwestern University are developing novel technologies to treat depression and other mood disorders using smartphones, web-based platforms, and virtual human coaches. These innovative approaches aim to provide immediate support, increase accessibility, and reduce costs.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 7, 2012

A bronze matryoshka doll: The metal in the metal in the metal

Researchers at TUM have developed a new way to create highly efficient catalysts using metal clusters with unusual symmetry. These clusters, similar to Matryoshka dolls, can serve as catalysts in chemical reactions, such as hydrogen transfer and hydration reactions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 7, 2012

Drinking large amounts of soft drinks associated with asthma and COPD

A study in Respirology found that high levels of soft drink consumption are associated with an increased risk of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Researchers discovered a dose-response relationship between soft drink intake and the likelihood of developing these conditions.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateFeb 7, 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.

Why the middle finger has such a slow connection

A study published in PNAS found that the middle finger reacts slower than the thumb and little finger due to inhibitory influences from both sides. Targeted learning protocols can compensate for this delay by reducing inhibition and improving neural plasticity.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2012

New insights into how to correct false knowledge

Researchers at Duke University found that correcting false knowledge requires providing students with feedback, which enables them to identify errors and learn correct information. Students who received feedback were more likely to correct their mistakes in the short-term, but also more likely to forget the correct answer if they didn'...

SourceDuke University·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateFeb 7, 2012

Teenage pregnancy is not a racial issue

Researchers Lorette I. Winters and Paul C. Winters found that while black teens are twice as likely to be pregnant, rates for minor whites have increased and surpassed those of poor black minors. In better economies, the difference between black and white teen pregnancies nearly disappears.

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateFeb 7, 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.

Warning! Collision imminent!

Researchers at McGill University discovered how the brain processes visual information to detect motion and collisions. Using mathematical models and recording techniques, they found that specific neurons in the brain's visual cortex respond selectively to motion patterns.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2012

Innovation promises expanded roles for microsensors

The new approach allows for reliable sensing with compact devices, opening up potential applications in national security, food processing, breath analyzers, industrial monitoring, and more. Researchers have improved the performance of microsensors using tiny vibrating microcantilevers to detect chemical and biological agents.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Microelectromechanical Systems·DateFeb 7, 2012

Chlorhexidine umbilical cord care can save newborn lives

A study led by Johns Hopkins researchers found that chlorhexidine umbilical cord cleaning can save lives, with a 20% reduction in mortality rates. The simple, safe, and inexpensive intervention has the potential to avert an estimated half a million neonatal deaths per year.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 7, 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.

Brain mechanisms link foods to rising obesity rates

The study sheds light on how calorically dense foods influence brain regions that regulate body weight, leading to increased food intake and weight gain. By understanding this mechanism, scientists aim to develop interventions that work with the body's biology to reduce obesity rates.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 7, 2012

Top off breakfast with -- chocolate cake?

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that adding dessert to breakfast can help dieters lose more weight and keep it off in the long run. Participants who added desserts to their high-protein, high-carbohydrate breakfasts lost an average of 40 lbs., compared to those on low-carbohydrate diets.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalSteroids·DateFeb 7, 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.

Molecular path from internal clock to cells controlling rest and activity

A new study found that a microRNA named miR-279 acts through the JAK/STAT pathway to regulate locomotor activity rhythms, maintaining normal patterns of wakefulness and sleep. The researchers identified a protein called Upd as a target of miR-279, which displays daily oscillations in its secretion.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 7, 2012

EASL publishes first European Clinical Practice Guidelines for Wilson's disease

The guidelines describe best practice for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with Wilson's disease, a rare genetic disorder that can cause liver failure and brain damage. Treatment options include chelating agents and zinc, with prolonged survival becoming the norm for patients.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateFeb 7, 2012