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Science News for June 5, 2012


We are drinking too much water

Research suggests that encouraging people to drink more water is driven by market interests rather than a need for better health. A balanced diet and lifestyle are key to weight loss, with fluid intake from unprocessed sources being equally important.

SourceWiley·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health·DateJun 5, 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.

Sepsis outbreak at L.A. County dialysis center prompts public health investigation

A bacterial sepsis outbreak at a Los Angeles County dialysis center was caused by improper disinfection of reusable medical devices, including a dialyzer. The investigation found genetic links between the bacteria infecting three patients, leading to changes in facility procedures and improved infection prevention training.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·DateJun 5, 2012

New ways to stretch DNA and other organic molecules

Researchers at National Taiwan University created a two-phase microfluidics technique to systematically stretch polymer strings suspended in fluid flow. By varying wall wettability, flow rate ratio, and Reynolds number, they controlled polymer extension, providing insights into biomolecule structure and behavior.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateJun 5, 2012

Keeping up with embryogenesis

A new imaging technology captures unprecedented speed and precision of embryogenesis, enabling quantitative analyses of developmental processes. The SiMView light sheet microscope allows users to track each cell in an embryo as it takes shape over hours or days.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateJun 5, 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.

Higher taxes, smoke-free policies are reducing smoking in moms-to-be

A recent study found that higher taxes on cigarettes and implementation of smoke-free policies are effective in reducing smoking during pregnancy. The study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, also showed that these policies can help prevent relapse after delivery, with a $1.00 increase in tax resulting in a 4.8 ...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 5, 2012

Nuclear weapon simulations show performance in molecular detail

Researchers at Purdue University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have solved several problems hindering the use of ultra-precise simulations needed to certify nuclear weapons. The breakthrough enables the creation of supercomputers capable of performing exascale computing, a crucial step for national defense.

SourcePurdue University·DateJun 5, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA satellites see changes in weakening Typhoon Mawar

Typhoon Mawar was observed to be producing a large area of rainfall southeast of Japan, with most heavy rainfall occurring north of the dissipating tropical cyclone's center. The storm's surface temperature and extent were also studied using NASA's Aqua satellite, revealing a lack of an eye wall and weakening circulation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 5, 2012

Post-stroke depression linked to functional brain impairment

Researchers found a strong link between post-stroke depression and brain network impairment, specifically in the default-mode network (DMN), which is involved in emotional regulation. The study suggests that functional brain impairment may be more critical than structural lesions in predicting depression severity.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 5, 2012

Climate change remains an urgent public health concern

International experts emphasize the need for concerted global efforts to address climate change and its substantial health impacts, particularly on vulnerable populations. Encouraging individual actions like walking, cycling, and healthier eating can bring co-benefits for both public health and reduced climate impact.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 5, 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.

Complex world of microbes fine-tune body weight

Research reveals that gut microbes fine-tune body weight by extracting energy from food, with changes in diet and environment significantly altering their composition. The study suggests that therapeutic modification of the gut microbiome may offer a promising approach to treating obesity and related health conditions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNutrition in Clinical Practice·DateJun 5, 2012

Calorie-restricted diet keeps heart young

Researchers found that people who restrict their caloric intake for seven years have better heart rate variability, a measure of the heart's ability to adapt to physical activity and stress. This is associated with improved cardiovascular health and may indicate a longer lifespan.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAging Cell·DateJun 5, 2012

Memory, judgment, and neuroeconomics -- News tips from Current Directions in Psychological Science

Recent studies in Current Directions in Psychological Science investigate the role of retrieval-based learning, attention to information in working memory, accurate personality judgment, and the use of neuroeconomic games to examine social decision making in children with externalizing disorders. These findings provide insights into th...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJun 5, 2012

Mathematicians model heat flow in human tears

Researchers developed a new model of fluid dynamics and heat flow in human tears, revealing the cooling effect on tear film after each blink. The model accurately predicts the rate of cooling for both healthy individuals and those with dry eye conditions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 5, 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.

Therapists phone it in and keep more patients

A Northwestern University study found that phone therapy retains more patients and improves depression outcomes compared to face-to-face sessions. The randomized control trial included 325 primary care patients with major depressive disorder and showed that phone therapy reduced dropout rates by 12 percentage points.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA·DateJun 5, 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.

Majority of families in urban areas have access to Internet

A study by Children's National Hospital found that nearly all minority and socioeconomically disadvantaged families in urban areas had access to the internet. More than half expressed interest in receiving electronic health information from emergency departments, with email being the preferred method of delivery.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPediatric Emergency Care·DateJun 5, 2012

WPI awarded $3 million from the NSF for new graduate program in biofabrication

The new program will focus on interdisciplinary research, translational engineering, and industrial experiences to prepare students to think like entrepreneurs. Students will participate in curriculum modules, mentored laboratory research projects, and team projects to develop their collaboration and innovation skills.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·DateJun 5, 2012

Thermal conductivity of argon at high pressures and temperatures

Researchers used diamond anvil cells to apply extreme pressure to argon, heating it with microsecond laser bursts to 2,500 degrees K. The results confirmed kinetic theory as a better model for argon's thermal conductivity than Green-Kubo formalism.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 5, 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.

Study offers hope for more effective treatment of nearsightedness

A study published by the University of Houston found that wearing progressive addition lenses slowed myopia progression in children. The research suggests that understanding why different types of lenses affect myopia progression can lead to the development of more effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJun 5, 2012

Rural COPD patients receiving vital care thanks to U of A program

A new telehealth program by the University of Alberta helps rural COPD patients in northern Alberta communities. The program uses telehealth technology to conduct pulmonary rehab sessions and provide consultations with pulmonologists, resulting in improved quality of life and increased exercise tolerance after two months.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Respiratory Journal·DateJun 5, 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.

Molecular matchmaking for drug discovery

By combining modeling, simulation, analysis, and visualization, researchers can identify potential binding sites on a virus. The work of discovering a breakthrough new drug begins with analyzing the virus, bacteria or mutation that causes the illness, and creating a three-dimensional model to understand its structure and shape.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Structural Biology·DateJun 5, 2012

Anxious girls' brains work harder

Researchers at Michigan State University found that anxious girls' brains respond more intensely to mistakes, suggesting a potential link between worrying and brain function. The study may help identify girls prone to anxiety problems.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Psychophysiology·DateJun 5, 2012

Scientists work together to achieve milestone against deadly diseases

Researchers at two structural genomics centers determined 1,000 protein structures from infectious disease organisms, providing crucial insights into the deadliest diseases. The knowledge gained will aid in developing new interventions and therapeutic agents for drug-resistant strains of TB, MRSA, and other pathogens.

SourceThe Center for Infectious Disease Research·DateJun 5, 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.

Between the ear and brain, an orderly orchestra of synapses

A University at Buffalo study finds that synapses in the cochlear nucleus are bundled together by plasticity, allowing for efficient transmission of sound information. This organization enables specialized bushy cells to develop unique sensitivities to sound characteristics.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateJun 5, 2012

UC San Diego to study accelerated aging in schizophrenia

Researchers will directly examine biological aging in schizophrenia using psychiatric and medical interviews, as well as laboratory techniques. The study aims to unravel biological mechanisms underlying faster aging in patients with schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJun 5, 2012

Milk ingredient does a waistline good

A natural milk ingredient called nicotinamide riboside has been found to protect against obesity in mice. It works by boosting levels of NAD+, a molecular sidekick for SIRT1, which helps with metabolism and longevity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 5, 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.

Splitting the unsplittable

Researchers have successfully split a single atom into its two halves, pulled them apart and reunited them again. This achievement showcases the potential of quantum mechanics in simulating complex systems, such as topological isolators and photo¬synthesis.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2012

Health and ethics must be included in future climate change talks

International expert Jerome Singh argues that climate change deliberations must consider the human health implications of climate change, highlighting the need for ethically sound principles to guide policy-making. The author proposes a multi-disciplinary synergized framework incorporating bioethics, public health ethics, and global he...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 5, 2012

Identified an anti-oncogene into an oncogene

A study has identified an antitumor molecule originating from a cancer-causing gene that inhibits pro-cancer action of the oncogene. The finding could lead to discovering other oncogenes and anti-oncogenes, contributing to tumor development.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 5, 2012

How do studies get selected for publication?

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that factors predicting publication success in scientific research differed from those predicting later scientific impact. Accepted abstracts were more likely to be based on basic research, have a large patient number, and be prospective study designs, while full-text publica...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 5, 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.

Research identifies precise measurement of radiation damage

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researchers have simulated and quantified early stages of radiation damage in materials. They used a new method to predict the effect of radiation on complex materials, including those for nuclear applications, space industry, and medical purposes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 5, 2012

Dinosaurs lighter than previously thought

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a new method to accurately measure dinosaur weight, reducing estimates for a Brachiosaur skeleton from 80 tonnes to 23 tonnes. The team's laser scanning technique provides a more accurate estimate of body mass, suggesting dinosaurs were not as massive as previously believed.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBiology Letters·DateJun 5, 2012

How immune system, inflammation may play role in Lou Gehrig's disease

A new study reveals the immune system and inflammation may play a significant role in Lou Gehrig's disease, specifically targeting motor neurons for clean-up by macrophages. Resolvin D1, an omega-3 fatty acid derivative, was found to curb inflammation and block harmful proteins, offering a potential new approach to treating ALS.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateJun 5, 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.

Rice research IDs vulnerable bridges

A Rice University study identifies over a dozen Gulf Coast bridges at risk of severe damage in a hurricane with stronger winds than Hurricane Ike. The research helps public safety officials plan emergency responses and identify potential fixes for existing bridges.

SourceRice University·DateJun 5, 2012

Short-term risk of shingles recurrence low

A Kaiser Permanente study of over 6,000 individuals found a low short-term risk of developing shingles recurrence among those with healthy immune systems. The study's findings suggest that the risk is low regardless of vaccination status.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 5, 2012

University of Houston professor receives Fulbright award

Marta Fairclough, associate professor at University of Houston, receives Fulbright grant to study Croatian as a heritage language in Croatia. The six-month project aims to document her own learning experience and shed light on the importance of teaching heritage languages.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJun 5, 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.

Air pollution linked to chronic heart disease

A Tel Aviv University researcher found that cardiac patients living in high-pollution areas were 43% more likely to have a second heart attack, and 46% more likely to suffer a stroke. Long-term exposure to air pollution was linked to increased risk of mortality and recurrent vascular events.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateJun 5, 2012

The Obamas and the new politics of race

Recent studies investigate the effects of Obama's presidency on racism in US politics, with experts analyzing topics such as citizenship, belonging, and racial identity. The findings suggest that Obama is often viewed as black rather than multiracial, highlighting the persistence of racial schemas in shaping public perceptions.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalQualitative Sociology·DateJun 5, 2012

RIH study: Restricted food intake a predictor of increased suicide attempts in BDD patients

Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital and Auburn University found a significant association between restrictive food intake and an increased number of suicide attempts in individuals with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). The study also suggests that those with a history of BDD-related excessive exercise had lower rates of suicide attempts.

SourceLifespan·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·DateJun 5, 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.

Magazine trends study finds increase in advertisements using sex

A recent study from the University of Georgia found that sexual imagery in magazine ads has increased over 30 years, particularly in alcohol, entertainment, and beauty advertising. The study shows that sex is most effective for low-risk, impulse-purchased products.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Current Issues & Research in Advertising·DateJun 5, 2012

Team determines how estrogens to persist in dairy wastewater

Researchers found that estrogens convert from one form to another in anoxic conditions, stalling biodegradation and complicating detection. The study reveals a reverse transformation process, where estrone reverts to alpha- and beta-estradiols, inhibiting further degradation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 5, 2012