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Science News for June 25, 2012


Why do fat cells get fat? New suspect ID'd

Researchers at the University of Michigan have made a surprising finding about WNT signaling and its role in fat cell growth. They discovered that Sfrp5, a molecule previously thought to have an opposing effect, actually stimulates fat cells to grow larger and burn fat slower.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 25, 2012

Mercury mineral evolution

Mineral evolution has led to at least 90 different mercury-containing minerals on Earth, mostly formed during three periods of supercontinent assembly. The creation of these minerals is linked to hydrothermal activity associated with continents colliding and forming mountain ranges.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalAmerican Mineralogist·DateJun 25, 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.

BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill exacerbated existing environmental problems in Louisiana marshes

A recent study found that the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill exacerbated existing environmental problems in Louisiana's salt marshes, causing erosion and permanent habitat loss. However, the study also suggests that healthy marsh plants can quickly regrow and recolonize affected areas, potentially mitigating the damage.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2012

Cambodia remains last vulture bastion in Southeast Asia

Conservationists hope that Cambodia's vultures can come back from the brink as a study reveals critical steps towards saving these scavengers. The creation of new feeding stations and restoration of wildlife populations represent next important steps in vulture conservation.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalBird Conservation International·DateJun 25, 2012

Study finds race has an impact on both enrollment and disenrollment in hospice care

A study by Indiana University School of Medicine found that nonwhite Medicare patients with heart failure are less likely to enroll in hospice, but more likely to experience hospitalizations and increased costs when they do. Racial disparities persisted over time, highlighting the need for improved end-of-life care options.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Heart Journal·DateJun 25, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

EEG test to identify autism in children

A new EEG test distinguishes between children with autism and neurotypical controls by analyzing brain connectivity. The test reveals reduced short-range connectivity in the left hemisphere, particularly in language regions, but increased long-distance connectivity as a compensatory mechanism.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJun 25, 2012

Mystery of the flatfish head solved

A new fossil discovery solves the mystery of flatfish evolution, revealing a 50-million-year-old fossil fish named Heteronectes that shows an intermediate stage between most fish and specialized flatfish. The study provides evidence for the gradual evolution of flatfish anatomy.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateJun 25, 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.

Sun exposure and cutaneous HPV infection found synergistic in skin cancers, Moffitt says

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center found a synergy between sun exposure and cutaneous HPV infection in developing non-melanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. People with low melanin production, such as those with light skin, are more susceptible to these risks.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 25, 2012

Gene expression test identifies low-risk thyroid nodules

A new gene expression test can accurately classify thyroid nodules as low-risk, allowing for the avoidance of unnecessary surgeries and lifelong hormone replacement treatment. The test demonstrated a 92% correct identification rate and 85-95% negative predictive value, ruling out malignancy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 25, 2012

Immigration growth in Spain has not caused more crime

Research in Spain finds low correlation between immigrant population and crime, with education and language playing key roles. Young men from immigrant populations are more likely to commit crimes.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAmerican Law and Economics Review·DateJun 25, 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.

Rate of severe reactions higher than thought in young children with food allergies

A recent study by the Consortium of Food Allergy Research (CoFAR) found that young children with milk and egg allergies experience severe reactions at a higher rate than previously believed. The study also revealed that some caregivers are hesitant to give epinephrine, a medication that reverses the symptoms of such reactions. Nearly 1...

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 25, 2012

Condor lead poisoning persists, impeding recovery, says CU-UCSC study

A CU-UCSC study finds that California condors continue to suffer from lead exposure, with nearly half of the population showing signs of poisoning. The research highlights the need for sustained human intervention to stabilize and grow the species' population.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2012

Study identifies causes for high rates of allergic reactions in children with food allergies

A recent study found that young children with food allergies experience almost one allergic reaction per year, despite parental instructions on food avoidance. The study highlights the importance of educating parents and caregivers about avoiding allergenic foods and using epinephrine to treat severe reactions.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 25, 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.

Welfare allowance may hit women's careers

Research shows that Norwegian mothers who received a childcare benefit to stay at home with small children often don't return to full-time work until their child is six. However, educated mothers can safeguard their careers by working part-time, maintaining job expertise and networks.

SourceUniversity of Stavanger·DateJun 25, 2012

Scientists twist light to send data

A multi-national team has developed a system to transmit data at dramatically increased speeds using twisted beams of light, with rates of up to 2.56 terabits per second. This technology could be used for high-speed satellite communication links and fiber optic cables.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 25, 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.

Exercise, even mild physical activity, may reduce breast cancer risk

A new analysis found that physical activity may reduce breast cancer risk by 30% in women, with moderate activity providing the greatest benefit. Exercise before or after menopause also shows promise in reducing breast cancer risk, particularly for hormone receptor-positive tumors.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalCancer·DateJun 25, 2012

Treating vitamin D deficiency may improve depression

A new study found that treating vitamin D deficiency improved symptoms of depression in women, suggesting a potential link between the two conditions. The study involved three women who received oral vitamin D replacement therapy and showed significant improvement in their depression scores after treatment.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 25, 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.

Maths formula leads researchers to source of pollution

Researchers develop algorithm to track pollutants in water and atmosphere, identifying exact location of leaks as soon as possible. The model takes into account diffusion, convection, and reaction, providing unique solution given observable data.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalInverse Problems·DateJun 25, 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.

Economist shows the value of moving back with mom and dad

A recent study by Greg Kaplan found that young adults who move back home with their parents after a job loss can benefit from it. Living at home allows individuals to be choosier when looking for a new job, enabling them to wait for higher-paying opportunities and avoiding lower-earning jobs. This can result in lower long-term earnings...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateJun 25, 2012

Cassini shows why jet streams cross-cut Saturn

A new study using Cassini images shows that turbulent jet streams on Saturn are powered by internal heat from the planet. The condensation of water vapor in mid-latitudes creates temperature differences, leading to eddies that accelerate the jets like rotating gears.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalIcarus·DateJun 25, 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.

Study identifies factors related to violence in veterans

A national survey found that US military veterans with protective factors such as employment, social support, and spiritual faith were 92% less likely to report severe violence. The study suggests that addressing these factors can help reduce the likelihood of violence in returning veterans.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateJun 25, 2012

Economic policies in isolation won't lead to growth in Europe

A European study emphasizes the importance of participatory citizenship and citizen engagement in addressing economic challenges. The research identifies barriers to these processes, including a lack of trust in politicians and the challenge of creating dialogue between citizens and policymakers.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateJun 25, 2012

Overweight men can boost low testosterone levels by losing weight

A new study found that weight loss reduced the prevalence of low testosterone levels in overweight, middle-aged men with prediabetes by almost 50 percent. The study involved nearly 900 men and showed that lifestyle modification, rather than medication, can increase testosterone production.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 25, 2012

Eating garbage: Bacteria for bioremediation

Bacteria found in a Colombian garbage dump have been shown to neutralize contaminants, making them suitable for bioremediation. The indigenous bacterial community was able to break down hydrocarbon compounds and other pollutants, providing a potential solution to clean the site.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJun 25, 2012

JCI early table of contents for June 25, 2012

Scientists identify WNT signaling pathway as potential therapeutic target for obesity. Antibiotic treatment after Lyme disease shows fluorescent bacterial debris remains without causing infection. Oxidative stress contributes to parasite persistence in host tissues, opening new avenue for anti-Trypanosoma cruzi drugs.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 25, 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.

New tools for evaluating quality of life for cats, dogs with heart disease

Researchers at Tufts University have developed two surveys, FETCH and CATCH, to evaluate the quality of life for dogs and cats with heart disease. The tools ask owners to rank aspects of their pet's health on a scale of 0-5, allowing veterinarians to assess the animal's perceived quality of life.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateJun 25, 2012

The skinny on what makes us fat

Research found that SFRP5-deficient mice showed increased metabolic activity and were resistant to diet-induced obesity, revealing the mechanism of SFRP5-mediated fat cell generation. The study suggests targeting the WNT signaling pathway could be a therapeutic approach to treat obesity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 25, 2012

Experimental drug helps diabetes patients lose weight

A new study finds that an experimental weight-loss drug, phentermine/topiramate, significantly aids overweight patients with type 2 diabetes in shedding pounds. Patients who took the medication combined with diet and exercise modifications were more likely to lose moderate amounts of weight than those on a placebo.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 25, 2012

Ciénega de Santa Clara unchanged after pilot run of Yuma Desalting Plant

A binational team of researchers from the University of Arizona monitored conditions in Ciénega de Santa Clara before, during and after the plant's pilot run, finding no significant changes to hydrology, water quality, vegetation, or marsh birds. The wetland appears resilient in the face of short-term disturbances.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateJun 25, 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.

Biological switch paves way for improved biofuel production

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London have identified a biological mechanism controlling electron transport in cyanobacteria, which could lead to more efficient solar-powered biofuel production. The discovery was made by exposing cells to different light conditions and observing the changes in electron transport pathways.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2012

Low vitamin D levels linked to weight gain in some older women

A Kaiser Permanente study found that older women with low Vitamin D levels gained an average of 2 pounds more than those with sufficient levels over nearly five years. The study, which involved over 4,600 women ages 65 and older, also found no association between Vitamin D insufficiency and weight changes in the entire group.

SourceKaiser Permanente·DateJun 25, 2012

Unraveling the mysteries of exotic superconductors

Researchers at Ames Laboratory found that magnetism helps or is responsible for superconductivity in iron-based superconductors. By measuring the London penetration depth, they revealed basic information about the material's behavior in the superconducting state.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 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.

UCLA biologists reveal potential 'fatal flaw' in iconic sexual selection study

A classic study on male and female promiscuity has been called into question after UCLA biologists repeated the experiment using the same methods as the original. The team found that Bateman's conclusions about the relationship between mate number and offspring fitness were likely flawed due to a bias in his methodology.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2012

CWRU nurse researcher surveys infection control practices for home patients

A survey of 3,800 home healthcare providers found that many agencies lack written policies on handling infection control for antibiotic-resistant infections. The study highlights the need for simple and quick actions like hand washing, vaccinations, and patient isolation to decrease infections in home care settings.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalHome Healthcare Nurse·DateJun 25, 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.

Hormone, oxytocin, shows potential as weight-loss treatment

A new animal study finds that oxytocin helps regulate food intake and energy metabolism without causing adverse effects. Oxytocin administered through daily injections or implanted mini pumps reduced food consumption, body weight, and liver fat, improving glucose tolerance and reducing abdominal fat.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 25, 2012

Inflammatory bacterial deposits remain after antibiotic treatment

Researchers found that antibiotic treatment reduced the number of live spirochetes in infected mice but left behind fluorescent bacterial debris. This debris triggered an inflammatory immune response and may contribute to arthritis-like symptoms in some patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 25, 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.

Greenland ice may exaggerate magnitude of 13,000-year-old deep freeze

Researchers question Greenland ice core data on Northern Hemisphere temperatures during the Younger Dryas, a period of rapid cooling and warming. The study suggests that atmospheric carbon dioxide levels may have played a role in modulating temperature changes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2012

Vitamin D tests are inaccurate

A study by Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine found that two new vitamin D test kits had poor performance, with results deviating from the gold standard method by up to 25%. This inaccuracy could lead to misdiagnoses and overtreatment of vitamin D deficiency.

SourceLoyola Medicine·DateJun 25, 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.

Stillbirth rate twice as high among least well off in England

Research published in BMJ Open finds that stillbirth rates are twice as high among the least well-off in England, with the gap remaining constant over eight years. Socio-economic inequalities in stillbirths by cause have been evident across all causes, including bleeding before birth and congenital abnormalities.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 25, 2012

Prions and cancer: A story unfolding

A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reveals that mutant p53 protein aggregates may lead to prion-like behavior, impairing its ability to suppress tumor growth. The findings suggest that this misfolding mechanism could serve as a potential target for cancer therapy.

SourcePublicase International·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 25, 2012

Scientists struggle with mathematical details

A study by Dr Tim Fawcett and Dr Andrew Higginson found that articles with many equations are seldom referenced, highlighting the importance of clear communication between theory and experiments. The authors recommend improved mathematical training for science graduates to overcome this barrier.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 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.

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.

Nano-sandwich technique slims down solar cells, improves efficiency

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a nano-sandwich technique to create thinner solar cells while maintaining their ability to absorb solar energy. The new design, which uses a thin active layer surrounded by dielectric materials, significantly improves efficiency and decreases manufacturing costs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 25, 2012

Mount Sinai researcher finds timing of ADHD medication affect academic progress

A study by Mount Sinai researchers found that the timing of ADHD medication impact on children's performance on standardized tests. The findings showed that starting medication within 12 months after fourth-grade test led to a decline of 0.3 percent in math compared to 9.4 percent for those who started treatment later.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 25, 2012

Swine flu vaccination program a success in Scotland

A successful swine flu vaccination program in Scotland showed 77% protection against the H1N1 virus, while also reducing hospital admissions by 20% due to related disorders. The program's effectiveness was demonstrated through detailed data analysis, which took into account multiple conditions such as pneumonia and COPD.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 25, 2012

The growth of immigration in Spain has not caused a rise in crime

A study by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid found no causal link between immigration and crime rates in Spain. The researchers analyzed data on crimes committed per inhabitant and immigrant population characteristics to conclude that language and education are key factors influencing crime.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalAmerican Law and Economics Review·DateJun 25, 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.

Thinking about choice diminishes concern for wealth inequality

A recent study published in Psychological Science suggests that when Americans think about choice, they become less concerned with reducing wealth inequalities. The researchers found that a choice-oriented mindset leads people to focus on individual agency and underestimate the role of societal structures in creating wealth disparities.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 25, 2012

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 26, 2012 online issue

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that clinicians screen all adult patients for obesity and offer intensive behavioral interventions. While medium- to high-intensity counseling produced small short-term improvements in cardiovascular health, the task force concludes that these interventions are more effective when delive...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 25, 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.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Debby's clouds blanket Florida

NASA captures satellite images of Tropical Storm Debby covering the entire state of Florida with a large white blanket of clouds. The storm is expected to continue crawling to the northeast, bringing heavy rainfall and tropical-storm-force winds to the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 25, 2012

Lead poisoning blocks recovery of California condor population

A comprehensive study confirms lead-based ammunition as the primary source of lead in California condors, preventing their recovery. The condor population can only be sustained through intensive and costly management efforts without a solution to the problem of lead poisoning.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2012

Intensive cholesterol therapy with multiple drugs effective over long term

A study published in the National Lipid Association Annual Scientific Sessions has shown that intensive cholesterol therapy involving a combination of drugs can be more effective over the long run than taking a single statin medication. After 20 years, patients on combination therapy had lower LDL and triglyceride levels, higher HDL, a...

SourceLoyola Medicine·DateJun 25, 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.

Targeted gene therapy enhances treatment for Pompe disease

Gene therapy successfully replaces protein missing in Pompe disease when targeting liver cells, reducing immune system reaction. Combining liver-expressing vector with ubiquitously expressing vector boosts overall effectiveness of the treatment.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJun 25, 2012

Severe reactions to food more common than thought in young children

A study found that over 70% of preschool children with food allergies experienced significant reactions, while caregivers administered epinephrine only 30% of the time. The researchers highlight the need for increased vigilance and education on treating food allergies.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 25, 2012

Electronic data methods research seeks to build a 'learning health care system'

The Electronic Data Methods (EDM) Forum aims to develop innovative strategies for addressing challenges in traditional research studies and data sources. Researchers share lessons learned from eleven projects funded by the U.S. Agency for Health Research and Quality, focusing on using electronic clinical data to improve patient outcomes.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateJun 25, 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.

Stress link to Alzheimer's goes under the spotlight

A new research project investigates the link between chronic stress and Alzheimer's disease development. The study aims to understand how stress may become a risk factor for developing dementia, with the goal of finding ways to intervene with psychological or drug-based treatments.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateJun 25, 2012

Romancing the firefly

Researchers at Tufts University found that female fireflies prefer males with larger nuptial gifts after mating, leading to higher reproductive success. This discovery challenges the conventional view that flash duration is the primary cue for female choice in firefly courtship.

SourceTufts University·DateJun 25, 2012