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Science News for July 16, 2012


A shortcut to sustainable fisheries

Biologists present a simple way to estimate maximum sustainable yield (MSY) using catch data and species resilience. The new method has been tested on 148 fish stocks with excellent agreement compared to traditional methods.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateJul 16, 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.

Force of nature: Defining the mechanical mechanisms in living cells

A study at Stanford University reveals the mechanical mechanisms in living cells, showing that cadherin-catenin-actin structure exerts force inside and between cells in living tissues. This understanding could have implications for biological processes such as tissue development, tumor growth, and complex organism formation.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

Toughened silicon sponges may make tenacious batteries

Researchers at Rice University and Lockheed Martin have developed a process to create multiple high-performance anodes from a single silicon wafer for lithium-ion batteries. The new method uses electrochemical etching to extract the sponge-like structure, which can store more than four times its weight in lithium.

SourceRice University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJul 16, 2012

To clean up the mine, let fungus reproduce

Harvard researchers found that a fungus produces superoxide, which oxidizes manganese, forming reactive minerals used for water cleanup and nutrient control. The discovery lends insight to environmental remediation and raises questions about the role of fungi in biogeochemistry.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

Gene therapy treatment extends lives of mice with fatal disease, MU study finds

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a gene therapy treatment that extends the lives of mice with spinal muscular atrophy by introducing a missing gene into their central nervous systems. This breakthrough offers new hope for treating humans with SMA, potentially providing a cure within 12-18 months.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateJul 16, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Antibodies for new rotavirus vaccines

CSIRO will produce a large quantity of antibodies specific to rotavirus strains used in developing vaccines, aiding the project's goal of increasing access and effectiveness of existing commercial vaccines worldwide. The production facility will supply antibodies for five years, supporting the development of new, affordable rotavirus v...

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateJul 16, 2012

Open for business: Open access journals reaching the same scientific impact as subscription journals

A new study published in BMC Medicine has found that open access journals are producing high-quality peer-reviewed articles with a similar scientific impact to traditional subscription journals. The study compared the citation rates of over 610 open access journals and over 7,000 subscription journals, finding that the differences disa...

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJul 16, 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.

Laser treatment improves appearance in burn scars, study shows

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have shown that pulsed-dye laser treatment improves burn scar appearance, texture, and elasticity. The study found significant improvements in redness, scar thickness, and biomechanical properties, with potential implications for further refining treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalDermatologic Surgery·DateJul 16, 2012

Physicians don't adequately monitor patients' medication adherence

Physicians feel responsible for assessing and addressing medication adherence but often rely on simple inquiries about adherence, leaving room for improvement. Non-adherence can lead to poor clinical outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and higher mortality rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 16, 2012

Study examines autism law, financial burdens

A new study by Susan Parish found that families living in states with parity laws spent significantly less on healthcare needs for their children with autism. Families in these states incurred lower out-of-pocket costs, averaging $500 annually, compared to those without such legislation, where costs were much higher.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalIntellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateJul 16, 2012

Guam conservation efforts progress

The US Department of the Navy has initiated a project to conserve the fadang tree species in Guam, with over 90% of trees killed by invasive insects. The partnership between the Navy and University of Guam aims to develop strategies for successful cycad transplantation and conservation.

SourceUniversity of Guam·DateJul 16, 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.

Human cells, plants, worms and frogs share mechanism for organ placement

Biologists at Tufts University have discovered a mechanism for organ placement in humans and other species, including plants and worms, that is driven by tubulin proteins. This finding has implications for understanding birth defects and the development of asymmetrical patterning across the tree of life.

SourceTufts University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

Study reveals optimal interval for stomach cancer screening

A new study found that screening intervals between one and three years have similar outcomes for gastric cancer stages, but longer intervals lead to more advanced cancer at diagnosis. The researchers recommend a screening interval of every three years in high-risk regions.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJul 16, 2012

Lab-engineered muscle implants restore function in animals

Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center developed lab-engineered muscle implants that can prompt muscle regeneration and repair, resulting in significant functional improvement. Exercising the implants accelerates the recovery process and promotes new muscle tissue growth.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalTissue Engineering Part A·DateJul 16, 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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for July 17, 2012 issue

The NYC trans fat ban resulted in a significant reduction of trans fat consumption among fast food patrons, with a notable decrease in saturated fat intake. Young women who have never been pregnant are also at risk for urinary incontinence, affecting up to 12.6% of those surveyed. Prophylactic antidepressant therapy may help prevent tr...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 16, 2012

Asians reluctant to seek help for domestic violence

A study found Asian victims of domestic violence use mental health services only 5.3% of the time, compared to 14.6% of Latino victims. Cultural barriers and language limitations contribute to this trend. Researchers are calling for more outreach efforts to increase access to culturally sensitive services.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateJul 16, 2012

AGU Journal highlights -- July 16

A new study reveals that even drought-resistant tree species in the Bornean rainforest will face increased mortality due to El Nino events. Replacing coal with natural gas could reduce global warming by 40% under certain scenarios, according to a separate analysis.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 16, 2012

Glacier break creates ice island 2 times the size of Manhattan

A recent glacier break in Greenland has created an ice island approximately 46 square miles in size, similar to the mega-calving event that occurred two years ago. This phenomenon highlights the ongoing melting and reduction of the Greenland ice sheet due to global climate change.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJul 16, 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.

Study suggests racial disparities may exist in larynx preservation therapy for cancer

A study found racial disparities in larynx preservation therapy for cancer, with black patients having lower rates of treatment compared to white patients. The use of radiation with chemotherapy as initial treatment has become more widespread, but disparities persist among black patients with stage IV disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 16, 2012

Engineering technology reveals eating habits of giant dinosaurs

A team of international researchers used CT scans and biomechanical modelling to understand how Diplodocus fed on tree branches. They found that combing and raking of leaves was a stress-free feeding behaviour for the skull bones and teeth, contradicting previous hypotheses.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateJul 16, 2012

Carbon-based transistors ramp up speed and memory for mobile devices

Researchers at Tel Aviv University developed a carbon-based memory transistor that can store and transfer energy, eliminating the need for capacitors. This technology aims to address RAM limitations and power consumption in mobile devices, enabling faster performance and longer battery life.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 16, 2012

Sharing isn't always caring: Why don't consumers take care of their Zipcars?

A study by Fleura Bardhi and Giana M. Eckhardt found that consumers accessing products through car-sharing services like Zipcar exhibit less psychological ownership and attachment. Users prefer a strict governance style, trusting the service provider to enforce rules rather than engaging with each other or the brand.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 16, 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.

New study reveals racial disparities in voice box-preserving cancer treatment

A new epidemiological study found that over 80% of white patients received radiation treatment combined with chemotherapy to preserve the voice box, while only 74.5% of African American patients received the same treatment. The disparity may be narrowing, but further research is needed to identify root causes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 16, 2012

Danforth Center awarded $12 million to study drought

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center has received a five-year, $12.1 million grant to develop a new model plant system, Setaria viridis, to advance bioenergy grasses as a sustainable source of renewable fuels. The research focuses on improving drought resistance and water efficiency in these crops.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·DateJul 16, 2012

LSUHSC research finds treating stress prevented new MS brain lesions

Research by Jesus Lovera and colleagues found that stress management therapy prevented new brain lesions in people with multiple sclerosis, with 77% of patients remaining free of lesions. The benefit did not continue beyond treatment, highlighting the need for longer therapy or continued support.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalNeurology·DateJul 16, 2012

Study examines health-care expenditures after bariatric surgery

A new study examining the health-care expenditures after bariatric surgery found no significant association between the procedure and reduced healthcare costs. The research suggests that trends in adjusted total expenditures mirrored those of outpatient and inpatient expenditures.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJul 16, 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.

Getting your message across

A study using electroencephalography found that people's brains often don't notice key words with contradictory meanings, leading to semantic illusions. Shallow processing is more likely under cognitive load or when multitasking.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJul 16, 2012

Researchers to use novel metabolomics technology for COPD

Researchers will analyze thousands of small molecules and measure changes in metabolite expression using state-of-the-art mass spectrometry technology. The study aims to identify metabolic changes linked to ciliopathy development and the pathogenesis of COPD, potentially leading to new biomarkers and therapeutic treatments.

SourceNew York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center·DateJul 16, 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.

Selling on eBay? Get higher bids with a red background

A new study by Rajesh Bagchi and Amar Cheema found that a red background color induces aggression in online auctions, leading to higher bids. Conversely, a blue background reduces willingness to pay when negotiating directly with a seller.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 16, 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.

Human eye inspires clog-free ink jet printer invented by MU researcher

Engineers at the University of Missouri-Columbia have developed a clog-free ink jet printer inspired by the human eye. The invention uses a droplet of silicone oil to cover the nozzle opening when not in use, eliminating the need for costly replacements and reducing waste.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Microelectromechanical Systems·DateJul 16, 2012

Mayo Clinic creates tool to track real-time chemical changes in brain

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a novel system to monitor real-time chemical changes in the brain using fast scan cyclic voltammetry and wireless neurochemical sensing. This technology can help treat brain disorders by adjusting neurotransmitter levels, reducing symptoms such as tremors.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJul 16, 2012

Rodent robbers good for tropical trees

A study found that rodents like agoutis disperse large seeds in tropical forests, creating conditions for germination. Researchers tracked seed dispersal using tags, video surveillance and transmitters, showing 14% of seeds survived to the next year.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

Poor people value marriage as much as the middle class and rich, study shows

A new study by UCLA psychologists reveals that low-income individuals hold traditional values towards marriage and divorce, similar to those of the middle class and rich. However, their lower marriage rates and higher out-of-wedlock births remain unexplained, as values do not always predict behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateJul 16, 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.

Genetically engineered bacteria prevent mosquitoes from transmitting malaria

Researchers have developed genetically modified bacteria that can prevent mosquitoes from transmitting malaria by killing the parasite. The modified bacteria were found to be 98% effective in reducing the malaria parasite burden in mosquitoes, with an 84% decrease in mosquito prevalence.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

UK tsunami threat to be assessed in £2.3 million research project

A team of scientists is investigating the hazard posed by landslide-tsunamis in the Arctic to the UK over the next 100 to 200 years. The study aims to clarify the frequency and timing of major Arctic submarine slides and assess their impact on human society and infrastructure.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·DateJul 16, 2012

Have thieving rodents saved tropical trees?

Researchers found that 85% of seeds were buried in caches by agoutis, which moved seeds up to 749 meters and sometimes even retrieved them after years. This behavior may have saved tropical trees from extinction.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 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.

Study examines patient experience at safety-net hospitals

Safety-net hospitals performed poorly on nearly every measure of patient experience, with significant gaps in communication and care. The study suggests that these hospitals face financial consequences under value-based purchasing programs, highlighting the need for targeted quality-improvement initiatives.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 16, 2012

Global warming harms lakes

Research by the University of Zurich reveals that global warming is compromising successful lake clean-ups by reducing water turnover and promoting harmful algal blooms. The warmer temperatures are particularly affecting large lakes in Central Europe, where overfertilization has led to cyanobacteria growth.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 16, 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.

NIH tools facilitate matching cancer drugs with gene targets

A new suite of web-based tools, CellMiner, provides researchers with improved capacity to compare data from genomic information against thousands of drugs. By comparing drugs and genetic targets, researchers can identify pharmaceuticals that could be effective against different forms of cancer.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 16, 2012

Recipients of UM Rosenstiel School's 2012-2013 Alumni Awards announced

The University of Miami's Rosenstiel School awarded over $11,000 to five graduate students pursuing research projects on marine conservation and climate change. Christine Beggs will study invasive lionfish in the Florida Keys, while Katinka Bellomo will investigate cloud radiative forcing at the Max-Planck Institute. Dominique Lazarre ...

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateJul 16, 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.

Researchers almost double light efficiency in LC projectors

The new technology allows approximately 90% of unpolarized light to be polarized and used by the projector, reducing heat generation and enabling more compact designs. This innovation has significant implications for LC projectors, including longer battery life and increased brightness with reduced power consumption.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Optics·DateJul 16, 2012

JCI early table of contents for July 16, 2012

Researchers have discovered a new target for treating acute myeloid leukemia by targeting cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), which promotes differentiation of cancer cells. Additionally, inflammation has been found to play a significant role in age-related retinal degeneration.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 16, 2012

Low-cal diet's effects seen in fly brain, mouthpart

Researchers found that flies on low-calorie diets exhibit enhanced transmission of nerve signals in their brains and mouthparts. The team discovered increased release of neurotransmitters, which could be a novel therapeutic approach for people suffering from neuromuscular disorders.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalAging Cell·DateJul 16, 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.

U of S researchers discover cannabis 'pharma factory'

Researchers from the University of Saskatchewan have discovered the chemical pathway used by cannabis to produce bioactive compounds called cannabinoids. This breakthrough could lead to the development of marijuana varieties for pharmaceutical use or cannabinoid-free industrial hemp.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

SIgN scientists discover dendritic cells key to activating human immune responses

Researchers identified a new subset of dendritic cells that play a critical role in activating the immune response against harmful pathogens. The discovery enables better exploitation of targeted vaccine strategies to treat cancer and infection, with significant impact on vaccine design and immunotherapies.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalImmunity·DateJul 16, 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.

Neurons derived from cord blood cells may represent new therapeutic option

Scientists at the Salk Institute have developed a protocol to convert cord blood cells into neuron-like cells, which may represent a new therapeutic option for neurological conditions. The method uses a single protein, Sox2, and demonstrates the conversion of cord blood cells into functional neurons.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

Obesity may affect response to breast cancer treatment

A recent study found that hormone-suppressing drugs reduce oestrogen levels in obese women, but their levels remain more than double those of normal-weight women. This suggests that overweight and obese women may benefit from changes to their treatment, highlighting the need for personalized care.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJul 16, 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.

Amnestic mild cognitive impairment doubles risk of death

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment have twice the risk of dying compared to cognitively normal people. The study, which followed 733 participants over five years, also found a threefold increase in mortality risk for those with dementia.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateJul 16, 2012

UC research reveals largest ancient dam built by Maya in Central America

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati discovered a massive ancient dam built by the Maya, stretching over 260 feet and holding 20 million gallons of water. The dam, constructed from cut stone and earth, was part of a sophisticated water management system that allowed the city to thrive despite periodic droughts.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2012

A new target in acute myeloid leukemia

Researchers found a new pathway activated by FLT3 mutation in acute myeloid leukemia, leading to the activation of CDK1 and promoting cell differentiation. Clinical trials with CDK1 inhibitors are underway, suggesting therapies targeting this pathway may be effective for patients resistant to existing treatments.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 16, 2012