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Science News for July 23, 2012


Making allowances for job seekers on Facebook

A study by Florida International University reveals that employers use Facebook to assess job candidates, potentially creating a new digital divide. The findings raise ethical questions about the role of social media in hiring processes.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Work Innovation·DateJul 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.

Researchers seek to improve drought resistance of biofuels crops

A multi-institutional initiative seeks to improve the genetic basis of drought resistance in a grass closely related to current biofuels feedstocks and food crops. Researchers will dissect the genetic basis of drought tolerance in these plants, with the goal of developing crops that can endure harsh conditions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJul 23, 2012

Prevention of HIV spread focus of NIDA's 2012 Avant-Garde Awards

Three scientists, Drs. David Smith, Samuel Friedman and Jeremy Luban, will study how to prevent transmission among the newly infected and identify genetic influences in disease progression. Their research aims to develop novel systems for mapping patterns of new HIV infections and preventing stigmatization.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·DateJul 23, 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.

Rise in temperatures and CO2 follow each other closely in climate change

A new study published in Climate of the Past indicates that CO2 levels and temperature rises follow each other closely in terms of time. The research, conducted at the University of Copenhagen, suggests that the processes in the deep-sea around Antarctica play a key role in the CO2 increase.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalClimate of the Past·DateJul 23, 2012

NASA successfully tests hypersonic inflatable heat shield

NASA successfully tested a hypersonic inflatable heat shield, surviving re-entry at 7,600 mph. The Inflatable Reentry Vehicle Experiment (IRVE-3) demonstrated the technology's potential for planetary entry and descent or cargo return from the International Space Station.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 23, 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.

Strobe eyewear training improves visual memory

Researchers at Duke University discovered that strobe eyewear training enhances visual short-term memory by disrupting vision and forcing participants to adjust their processing. The effects of improved visual memory retention were observed even after removing the eyewear, lasting up to 24 hours.

SourceDuke University·DateJul 23, 2012

Powerful class of antioxidants may be potent Parkinson's treatment

Researchers have discovered a powerful class of antioxidants that can block the development of Parkinson's disease by bolstering the natural antioxidant Nrf2. The synthetic triterpenoids increased Nrf2 activity, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in brain cells, which are characteristic of Parkinson's.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalAntioxidants & Redox Signaling·DateJul 23, 2012

Why does vivid memory 'feel so real?'

Researchers found that vivid memory and real perceptual experience share striking similarities at the neural level, but not in every detail. The study used fMRI to analyze brain activity while participants watched video clips and then recalled them, finding a 91% match in sensory and motor areas of the cerebral cortex.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateJul 23, 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.

Is YouTube a prescription for vertigo?

A study found that YouTube videos showing the Epley maneuver, a simple treatment for BPPV, are highly accurate and widely used by healthcare providers and people with vertigo. The videos have also helped to educate patients about how to treat this disorder.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 23, 2012

Aspirin protects against Barrett's esophagus

A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that aspirin use may protect against Barrett's esophagus (BE), the largest known risk factor for esophageal cancer. High-dose aspirin was significantly associated with decreased BE risk, but caution is advised due to potential cardiovascular benefits.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJul 23, 2012

New study: Raisins as effective as sports chews for fueling workouts

A new study suggests that raisins can provide the same workout boost as sports chews, promoting higher carbohydrate oxidation and faster running times. Raisins offer an added benefit of providing fiber and micronutrients like potassium and iron.

SourceFleishman-Hillard, Inc.·JournalJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·DateJul 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.

Loss of tiny liver molecule might lead to liver cancer

A new study suggests that loss of microRNA-122 leads to liver cancer and that restoring this molecule may slow tumor growth. The researchers developed a model where mice lack miR-122 and develop liver cancer, which can be treated by restoring the molecule.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 23, 2012

Ancient alteration of seawater chemistry linked with past climate change

Scientists have discovered a potential cause of Earth's 'icehouse climate' cooling trend, linking it to changes in seawater sulfate content. The study proposes that times of high sulfate concentrations correlate with global cooling, while low concentrations correspond to greenhouse periods.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJul 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.

UC Berkeley survey shows college campuses can make good bird havens

A recent survey conducted at the University of California, Berkeley, found 48 distinct bird species within a 84-acre area, surpassing previous records from 1913 and 1938. The study suggests that urban green spaces can serve as islands of diversity, supporting a wide range of bird species.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateJul 23, 2012

Fools' gold found to regulate oxygen

Researchers found that pyrite, also known as fools' gold, plays a significant role in regulating atmospheric oxygen levels. The formation and burial of pyrite has been more important than previously thought, accounting for over 80% of sulfur removed from the ocean.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 2012

Public sightings suggest increase in basking sharks in British waters

A new study analyzing public basking shark sightings suggests an increase in the number of animals recorded in British waters since the 1980s. The researchers found a rise in medium and large-sized sharks, indicating an aging population, and identified three hotspots off South West England, Western Scotland, and the Isle of Man.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateJul 23, 2012

Why do anti-hunger and anti-obesity initiatives always fall short?

Global food output has doubled in the past half-century, yet hunger and malnutrition continue to plague the world's poorest populations. The researchers propose an ambitious plan to remake the way food is grown, processed, distributed, sold, and consumed, focusing on innovations that take into account farmers' needs, nutrition-related ...

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 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.

Superfast evolution in sea stars

Researchers found that two closely related sea star species diverged around 6,000-22,000 years ago, ruling out slow genetic changes over time. The boundary between cold and warm water in the Coral Sea may have isolated a small population of ancestral sea stars.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJul 23, 2012

Study shows economic feasibility for capturing carbon dioxide directly from the air

A study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers shows that extracting carbon dioxide directly from the air using newly-developed adsorbent materials is economically feasible. The technique could be used to supplement capture of CO2 from power plant flue gases, with estimated costs of $100 per ton. The method has the potential to...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalChemSusChem·DateJul 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.

High dietary antioxidant intake might cut pancreatic cancer risk

Research published in the journal Gut suggests that increasing dietary intake of antioxidant vitamins C, E, and selenium could cut the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. The study found a significant association between high antioxidant intake and reduced pancreatic cancer risk, with potential prevention of over one in 12 cases.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·DateJul 23, 2012

Study examines use of diagnostic tests in adolescents with hypertension

A study examining diagnostic tests in adolescents with hypertension found that echocardiograms and renal ultrasonography were underused, while electrocardiograms were overused. The findings highlight the need for better adherence to pediatric guidelines and further research on treatment effectiveness.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJul 23, 2012

Herding sheep really are selfish

Researchers use GPS-enabled backpacks to study flocking sheep and a herding dog, confirming the selfish herd theory by tracking individual animal movements. The findings show that under threat, sheep move towards the center of the flock while the rest moves away from the danger.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 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.

ICAP study finds concerningly high HIV infection rates for young black gay and bisexual men in US

A new study reveals disturbingly high HIV infection rates among young black gay and bisexual men in the US, with a 2.8% annual rate of new infections nearly 50% higher than among white MSM. The study also found that poverty and untreated sexually transmitted infections were associated with HIV infection in this population.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateJul 23, 2012

Researchers unfold the mechanisms underlying blood disorders

A Finnish research team has uncovered the protein structure that regulates cell signalling and blood cell formation, shedding light on haematological disorders. The study provides new opportunities for disease-specific treatment and may lead to targeted therapeutics for common myeloproliferative diseases.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJul 23, 2012

Mice have distinct subsystem to handle smell associated with fear

A new study finds that mice have a unique neural circuitry for processing instinctually important smells like those associated with predators. The TAAR-expressing neurons form an independent olfactory subsystem, distinct from the more common olfactory receptor neurons, which detect a broader range of smells.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2012

Bloodstream scavenger inhibits clotting without increased bleeding

Researchers have discovered a promising compound that inhibits clotting in the bloodstream without triggering excessive bleeding. PAMAM G-3, an experimental compound, prevents activation of the process leading to blood clot formation while maintaining normal blood clotting factors.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2012

America Invents Act is a game changer

The USPTO has implemented the America Invents Act, a significant reform of US patent law, allowing for public input and feedback throughout the rulemaking process. The act introduces a new framework for patents, with a focus on balance and collaboration between the agency and various stakeholders.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateJul 23, 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.

New recruits in the fight against disease

Scientists at Monash University have deciphered the atomic structure of PlyC, a powerful anti-bacterial lysin that kills bacteria causing infections from sore throats to pneumonia. PlyC's unique 'saucer' shape and eight docking sites make it 100 times more efficient than other lysins at killing certain bacteria.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2012

Neural precursor cells induce cell death in certain brain tumors

Researchers found that neural precursor cells protect the young brain against high-grade gliomas, especially glioblastoma, by inducing stress-induced cell-death in tumor cells. The cells release substances that activate TRPV1 ion channels in the tumor cells, leading to their death.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 23, 2012

Neuroeconomics to study decision-making in anxious individuals

A neuroeconomic review investigates how anxiety disorders impact everyday decision-making processes. The study highlights the overlap between neural systems underlying anxiety and decision-making, suggesting that fear and anxiety can alter choice patterns. Anxious individuals exhibit specific biases in decision making, which may be med...

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 23, 2012

Trial signals major milestone in hunt for new TB drugs

A novel approach to discover the first new tuberculosis (TB) combination drug regimen has cleared a major hurdle with a Phase II clinical trial finding it could kill more than 99 percent of patients' TB bacteria within two weeks. The results add to a growing body of evidence that this regimen could reduce treatment by more than a year ...

SourceBurness·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 23, 2012

Traveling through the volcanic conduit

Recent eruptions demonstrate the vulnerability to ash dispersal, which can disrupt aviation and cause billions of dollars in economic loss. Scientists now understand that particle size is determined by post-eruption collisions, not just initial fragmentation.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 23, 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.

JCI early table of contents for July 23, 2012

Researchers found that miR-122 modulates fat and cholesterol metabolism and has a tumor suppressive function in hepatocytes. A mouse model with MiR-122 loss of function also promoted breast tumor growth by differentially regulating ERα and ERβ.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 23, 2012

Breakthrough technology focuses in on disease traits of single cells

Researchers at Arizona State University's Biodesign Institute developed the Cellarium, a live cell array technology that enables unprecedented insights into individual cell behavior. The system allows for dynamic measurements of live single cells, providing valuable clues to health and disease.

SourceArizona State University·DateJul 23, 2012

Functional neurologic abnormalities due to prenatal alcohol exposure are common

A study of over 9,600 children in Chile found that 80% had one or more abnormalities associated with prenatal alcohol exposure, with functional neurologic impairment being the most frequent. This highlights the importance of considering prenatal alcohol exposure as a potential risk factor for functional deficits in offspring.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateJul 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.

Researchers develop ginseng-fortified milk to improve cognitive function

A team of scientists has developed low-lactose functional milk enriched with American ginseng, which maintained beneficial levels after processing. The product was well accepted by a niche group of consumers, particularly those interested in the health benefits of ginseng.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJul 23, 2012

Climate change and deforestation: When the past influences the present

A recent study by an international research group challenges the conventional wisdom that deforestation is solely caused by human activity. The research suggests that pre-human climatic changes may have led to the current open habitats of Daraina region in northern Madagascar, affecting the population of golden-crowned sifaka.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2012

Children with trisomy 13 and 18 and their families are happy

Despite medical predictions of a gloomy prognosis, parents of children with trisomy 13 and 18 report a high quality of life. In fact, over 97% of parents considered their child happy and present in their family's life, regardless of longevity.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 23, 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.

Boosting new memories with wakeful resting

Researchers found that taking a brief wakeful rest after learning new information boosts memory retention. Participants who rested after learning a story remembered more details than those who played a game or were distracted, even a week later.

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

Polar bear evolution tracked climate change, new DNA study suggests

A new DNA study provides clues about the species' evolution, suggesting that climate change and genetic exchange with brown bears helped create the polar bear as we know it today. The research found evidence of fluctuating population sizes over the past million years, growing during cooling periods and shrinking in warmer times.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2012

Scientists confirm existence of vitamin 'deserts' in the ocean

A team led by USC scientists has identified long-hypothesized vitamin B deficient zones in the ocean using a new analytical technique. These 'vitamin deserts' may inhibit phytoplankton growth and affect the ocean's food chain. The discovery could lead to complex interactions among microbial populations.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 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.

Joslin researchers gain new understanding of diabetes and kidney disease

Scientists at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified the biological mechanisms by which glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) protects against kidney disease, including its ability to inhibit the signaling pathway of angiotensin II. The study suggests that effective therapeutic agents could be developed to enhance GLP-1R on the endothelium, ...

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetes·DateJul 23, 2012

American Chemical Society's highest honor to Peter Stang

Peter J. Stang, a renowned University of Utah organic chemist, has been awarded the 2013 Priestley Medal from the American Chemical Society for his pioneering work in supramolecular chemistry. The gold medal recognizes his research on complex molecules with potential applications in drug delivery and oil refining.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateJul 23, 2012

Alcoholism and HIV infection have different effects on visuomotor procedural memory processes

This study found that chronic alcoholism and HIV infection distinctively impact the brain systems involved in procedural learning and visual information processing. Individuals with HIV require repeated practice to achieve maximum benefit, while those with alcoholism demonstrate a consolidation effect that enhances learning over time.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateJul 23, 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.

Study shows why some types of multitasking are more dangerous than others

Researchers found that people perform worse when trying to do two visual tasks at once, yet rate their performance higher. Eye-tracking technology showed that people's gaze moved around more and spent less time fixated on any one task. The study suggests teaching media literacy to young people before they start driving.

SourceOhio State University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJul 23, 2012

A portal for Earth science data exploration

DataONE enables researchers worldwide to discover, integrate, and analyze massive amounts of diverse environmental and Earth science data. The platform facilitates universal access to data, addressing critical questions about the environment and human role within it.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·DateJul 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.

Aging heart cells rejuvenated by modified stem cells

Modified human stem cells helped enhance the activity of an enzyme called telomerase, which elongates telomere length. This technique increased telomere length and activity, as well as increasing cardiac stem cell proliferation, vital steps in combating heart failure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 23, 2012

Judging DNA by its cover

A new Weizmann Institute-led study identifies a potential molecular mechanism behind the link between cancer and faulty stem cell differentiation. The researchers discovered that the tagging of DNA pieces with ubiquitin is crucial for proper stem cell differentiation, and disruptions in this process can lead to cancer.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 23, 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.

MiR-122 micromanages liver function

A recent study found that miR-122 is involved in modulating fat and cholesterol metabolism in the liver. Additionally, it may have a tumor suppressive function in hepatocytes, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma. The molecule's role in liver homeostasis has also been highlighted.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 23, 2012

Social deprivation has a measurable effect on brain growth

Researchers found measurable changes in children's brains due to institutional care, including decreased gray and white matter. However, positive interventions like foster care can partially reverse these changes, especially for white matter volume.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2012

Snacking and BMI linked to double effect of brain activity and self-control

A study by the University of Exeter found that brain activity in response to food images predicted snack consumption, with greater effects on eating than conscious feelings of hunger or desire. Individuals with low self-control were more likely to overeat and gain weight due to a stronger brain response to food cues.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNeuroImage·DateJul 23, 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.

NASA Goddard scientist receives Presidential Early Career Award

Lola Fatoyinbo-Agueh, an environmental scientist at NASA Goddard, has been recognized for her exceptional achievement in merging scientific priorities with advanced technology to develop innovative remote-sensing instrumentation. Her research focused on mangrove forests, using data from multiple satellites and a remote sensing software...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 23, 2012

Cognitive changes may be only sign of fetal alcohol exposure

A NIH study found that fetal alcohol exposure is associated with abnormal intellectual and behavioral development in children, rather than distinct facial features. The researchers documented cognitive delays, language delays, hyperactivity, attention deficits, and intellectual delays in about 44% of exposed children.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·DateJul 23, 2012

New line of approach for combination therapy against melanoma

Agnieszka Gembarska and Chris Marine discovered a new way to combat melanoma by inhibiting the interaction between MDM4 and p53, restoring tumor suppressive effect in melanoma cells. This approach shows promise for improving clinical response to treatment, particularly when combined with BRAF inhibitors.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 23, 2012

2 out of 3 very obese kids already have heart disease risk factors

Research published in Archives of Disease in Childhood found that two out of three severely obese children under the age of 12 have at least one cardiovascular risk factor. High blood pressure, high levels of low-density 'bad' cholesterol, and impaired fasting glucose were prevalent among this group.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateJul 23, 2012

Study finds non-disclosure of HIV serostatus common among India female sex workers

A study conducted in India found that non-disclosure of HIV serostatus to sex partners is a significant issue among female sex workers and their clients, with rates ranging from 17-86%. The study suggests that improving basic HIV knowledge, reducing alcohol consumption, and increasing awareness about partner status can help increase di...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateJul 23, 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.

New findings by GW researcher break tanning misconceptions: 'There is no such thing as a safe tan'

A GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences study published in Nature Communications reveals that traditional sun protection may not be effective against skin cancer. The research found that UVA radiation induces melanin formation, which is directly involved in melanoma formation, contradicting the notion of a 'safe tan'.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2012