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Science News for June 7, 2012


Armored caterpillar could inspire new body armor

Researchers have discovered a highly complex structure in the mantis shrimp's club that enables it to withstand 50,000 high-velocity strikes. The unique structure could inspire new materials for military body armor, vehicle frames, and aircraft frames, reducing weight while maintaining impact resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 2012

Immune system 'circuitry' that kills malaria in mosquitoes identified

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have identified the function of a series of proteins within the mosquito that transduce a signal to trigger an immune response against the malaria parasite. The study found that manipulating these proteins through genetic engineering can create a malaria-resistant mosquito.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 7, 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.

Breaking the limits of classical physics

A new experiment shows that light exhibits both electric and magnetic fields simultaneously, violating classical physics, and demonstrating its quantum mechanical nature. The study's findings have implications for understanding the behavior of other systems and developing quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 7, 2012

New data suggests HIV superinfection rate comparable to initial HIV infection

A new study suggests that HIV superinfection rates are equivalent to primary HIV infections among a general heterosexual population. Researchers used ultra-deep sequencing to detect even the lowest levels of circulating HIV strains and found 7 cases of superinfection out of 149 tested individuals.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 7, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Analysis will examine safety of in-hospital underwater births

Researchers examine past five years of underwater deliveries by HealthNet midwives to determine maternal and baby health indicators, aiming to improve reproductive health care. The study's findings will inform national policy and contribute to the field's adoption of health information technology.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·DateJun 7, 2012
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New brain target for appetite control identified

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have identified a brain receptor called Gpr17 that appears to play a central role in regulating appetite. Blocking the action of this protein, which is also found in humans, could lead to new drugs for preventing or treating obesity.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJun 7, 2012

Re-defining future stroke risk among pre-diabetics

A new meta-analysis suggests that people with pre-diabetes are at increased risk of stroke, but the precise degree of this threat depends on the medical definition used. Researchers found that those with fasting glucose levels between 110-125mg/dL carry a 21% higher chance of suffering a future stroke.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJun 7, 2012

HIV superinfection in Uganda may be more common than previously thought, study finds

A new study in Uganda found that HIV superinfection may be more common than previously thought, occurring at a rate comparable to the annual incidence of new HIV infections. The research suggests that post-test counseling should emphasize the risk of superinfection and its implications for public health strategies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 7, 2012
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Virgin male moths think they're hot when they're not

A University of Utah study found that virgin male moths quickly warm up after smelling female sex attractant, leading to premature takeoff. This behavior may compromise flight power and reduce chances of reaching females. Researchers are studying how odors influence moth behavior, which is critical for understanding insect biology.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 7, 2012

Alzheimer's vaccine trial a success

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet report positive effects of an active vaccine, CAD106, against Alzheimer's disease. The study found that 80% of patients developed protective antibodies without side effects.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJun 7, 2012

Vampire jumping spiders identify victims by their antennae

Researchers discovered that vampire jumping spiders prefer female mosquitoes with blood-fed abdomens over other insects due to their distinctive antennae. The spiders can identify the females by their antennae even when they are too small to be seen, and this unique ability may play a crucial role in their prey classification process.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 7, 2012

All the colors of a high-energy rainbow, in a tightly focused beam

An international team produced a coherent beam that includes X-rays for the first time using a setup on a laboratory table. The researchers converted part of the original laser energy into a super-continuum of light extending well into the X-ray region, enabling the study of fastest physical processes in nature.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 2012
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

VCU researchers identify changes in cholesterol metabolic pathways

A new study from VCU School of Medicine has identified molecular changes that may explain the severity of liver disease and risks to heart health in patients with fatty liver. The findings suggest increased cholesterol production and decreased expression of a receptor that takes up cholesterol, leading to cardiovascular disease.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 7, 2012

'Nanocable' could be big boon for energy storage

Researchers at Rice University have created a tiny coaxial cable that is about a thousand times smaller than a human hair and has higher capacitance than previously reported microcapacitors. The nanocable, made with carbon and copper, could be used to build next-generation energy-storage systems.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 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.

U Alberta finds weakness in armor of killer hospital bacteria

Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered a vulnerability in the glycoprotein production of Acinetobacter baumannii, reducing its virulence and ability to form biofilms. This finding could lead to the development of targeted antibiotics to combat the superbug.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 7, 2012

Engineered robot interacts with live fish

A bioinspired robot has shown that live zebrafish can be influenced by engineered robots, providing a stepping stone for autonomous robots in open environments to monitor and control fish behavior. The robot's design mimicked the characteristics of a zebrafish, including shape and color patterns, to increase attraction.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateJun 7, 2012

Meditation practice may decrease risk for cardiovascular disease in teens

A recent study found that meditation can lower left ventricular mass in black teens with high blood pressure, reducing the risk of future cardiovascular disease. School records also showed significant behavioral improvements in the meditation group.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalEvidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateJun 7, 2012
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Finding ways to feed pigs for less

A study by University of Illinois researchers discovered that certain pig breeds can efficiently use energy in high-fiber diets, potentially reducing food costs. Meishan pigs were found to outperform Yorkshire pigs when fed diets rich in distillers dried grains with solubles.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJun 7, 2012

Research helps quantum computers move closer

Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate and measure quantum processes in solid-state systems using highly purified silicon. This breakthrough could enable the creation of practical quantum computers, which would revolutionize computing capabilities.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 2012

Inside a child's mind -- Research findings from Psychological Science

Researchers investigated children's performance on a drawing game and found that referencing social groups can lead to poor performance. Additionally, infants help others due to genuine concern for the person in need, not seeking credit. Childhood poverty is linked to elevated stress markers in adolescence.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 7, 2012

New discovery provides insight on long-standing pregnancy mystery

Researchers discovered a process that turns off key pathway required for immune system to attack foreign bodies, preventing maternal immune rejection of the developing fetus. Epigenetic modifications in decidua cells silence chemokine genes, inhibiting T cell recruitment and immune response.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 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.

Steel-strength plastics -- and green, too!

A Tel Aviv University researcher has developed a super-strength polypropylene that could replace steel in everyday products, reducing pollution and increasing energy efficiency. The new material is cheaper to produce and more durable than traditional plastics, making it a promising alternative for industries such as car manufacturing.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 7, 2012

Scientists identify first gene in programmed axon degeneration

Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School have identified the first gene, dSarm/Sarm1, responsible for promoting axon destruction after injury. The discovery provides a new therapeutic target to delay or stop axon decay in neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 2012

Gladstone scientists reprogram skin cells into brain cells

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes successfully transformed skin cells into brain cells using Sox2 gene, potentially leading to better models for testing drugs for devastating neurodegenerative conditions. The breakthrough could accelerate drug development and reduce risks associated with human trials.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 7, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

U of I study: Teachers may need training to respond to children's emotions

A University of Illinois study found that teachers often lack training on supporting young children's emotional regulation skills. The researchers suggest that teacher training programs should include strategies for modeling and managing challenging emotional moments in the classroom. By teaching children how to manage their emotions, ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEarly Education and Development·DateJun 7, 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.

How does dolomite form?

A team of researchers discovered that dolomite crystals form under specific conditions in biofilms created by marine bacteria. The study provides new insights into the reconstruction of fossil dolomite deposits and their connection to past environmental conditions.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGeology·DateJun 7, 2012

Helping adolescents root out stigma associated with mental illness

Developing a reliable measure of mental illness stigma in adolescents is crucial for encouraging teens to seek help. A study published in the Journal of Nursing Measurement found that the Revised Attribution Questionnaire (r-AQ) can be considered reliable and valid for assessing stigma among this age group.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Nursing Measurement·DateJun 7, 2012
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

City kids more likely to have food allergies than rural ones

A new study has mapped children's food allergies by geographical location in the US, revealing that urban centers have a higher prevalence of peanut and shellfish allergies compared to rural areas. The study controlled for household income, race, ethnicity, gender, and age, tracking food allergy prevalence in different regions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateJun 7, 2012

Bright X-ray flashes created in laser lab

An international team of scientists has successfully created bright coherent x-ray radiation using a new method developed at the Vienna University of Technology. This breakthrough enables the production of high-energy x-rays with short wavelengths, making it suitable for various applications such as materials science and medicine.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 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.

Pre-existing problems

Researchers at Harvard University have found that pre-existing mutations in the HIV virus can cause it to develop resistance to drugs used to slow disease progression. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments and opens up possibilities for prevention of drug resistance.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 7, 2012

Caribbean wins the seaweed Olympics

A new study reveals that Caribbean seaweeds bloom four times faster than their counterparts in the Pacific Ocean, giving them an upper hand over corals. This could lead to reduced coral recovery after damage, posing a significant threat to Caribbean coral reefs.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·DateJun 7, 2012
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

New property of flames sparks advances in technology

Researchers at University College London have discovered a new property of flames that allows for the control of reactions at solid surfaces, opening up new fields of chemical innovation. This breakthrough has significant implications for future technologies, including air quality detection and greenhouse gas management.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 7, 2012

Is berry picking forced labor?

Research by Charles Woolfson reveals that berry pickers from Asia and Eastern Europe may be subjected to forced labor in Swedish forests. The ILO's definition of forced labor is met, with threats of punishment and non-consensual working conditions.

SourceLinköping University·JournalInternational Journal of Comparative Labour Law and Industrial Relations·DateJun 7, 2012

Parasitic plants 'steal' genes from their hosts

Researchers found that parasitic plant Rafflesia cantleyi has 'stolen' genes from its host Tetrastigma rafflesiae, including those related to respiration and metabolism. This horizontal gene transfer has replaced the parasite's own gene activity in three-quarters of the cases.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJun 7, 2012
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

What does it mean to be cool? It may not be what you think

Research led by Ilan Dar-Nimrod found that modern coolness is characterized by friendly, competent, trendy, and attractive traits, deviating from the traditional rebellious and emotionally controlled image. The study suggests a transition from countercultural to generic coolness, with a focus on being liked and admired by others.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Individual Differences·DateJun 7, 2012

Identification of differential proteins in maternal serum with Down syndrome

Researchers have identified 29 differentially expressed proteins in maternal serum from pregnancies carrying Down syndrome fetuses. These proteins show promise as potential biomarkers for improving the performance of Down syndrome screening, but further clinical verification is needed.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateJun 7, 2012
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

2-1-1 could be effective tool in fighting cancer disparities

A new study by Jason Purnell finds that nearly 70% of 2-1-1 callers needed at least one cancer control service, with greater need in Missouri, North Carolina, Texas, and Washington. Callers were receptive to referrals for preventive services like mammography and HPV vaccination.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateJun 7, 2012

Newly identified protein function protects cells during injury

Scientists have identified a new protein function that protects heart cells from damage during extreme hypertension and cardiac pressure overload. The discovery could lead to the development of treatments for conditions like cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJun 7, 2012

Penn and Cornell researchers spearhead the development of new guidelines for veterinary CPR

Penn and Cornell researchers have created evidence-based guidelines for veterinary CPR, aiming to standardize treatment of cardiac arrest in pets. The guidelines recommend 100-120 chest compressions per minute, intubated ventilation at a rate of 10 breaths per minute, and administration of vasopressors every 3 minutes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care·DateJun 7, 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.

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation increases survival in systemic sclerosis patients

A phase III trial showed that haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) significantly increases long-term survival compared to conventional treatment for patients with poor prognosis early diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis. The study found more deaths in the conventional group, with half of them being treatment-related.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 7, 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.

New twist on old chemical process could boost energy efficiency

Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered a new aspect of chemical reactions on metal oxide surfaces that could lead to more efficient energy systems. The new perspective proposes coupling electrons and protons, which could help reduce energy barriers in technologies such as solar cells and hydrogen fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 2012

Highly contagious honey bee virus transmitted by mites

A study by researchers in Hawaii and the UK reveals that Varroa mites facilitate the spread of the Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) among honey bees. The mite's presence increases DWV frequency from 10% to 100%, leading to massive colony losses and a single 'virulent' strain emerging.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalScience·DateJun 7, 2012

11 integrated health systems form largest private-sector diabetes registry in US

Researchers combined data from 11 integrated health systems to form the SUPREME-DM DataLink, a unique resource for population-based diabetes research and clinical trials. The database contains over 1.1 million people with diabetes, mirroring the general population, allowing for more effective prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateJun 7, 2012
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Navy researchers seek to improve weather prediction for global operations

The Office of Naval Research is developing advanced weather prediction models to enhance the Navy's forecasting capability, accuracy, and safety at sea. The new models, such as TC-COAMPS, enable real-time forecasting of storms' track and strength, improving warfighting advantage and reducing fuel consumption.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateJun 7, 2012

Preterm birth rate drops in just 3 countries over past 20 years

Preterm birth rates have decreased in Croatia, Ecuador, and Estonia over the past 20 years, with only six countries showing a decrease. The preterm birth rate increased in most countries, with European nations experiencing significant rises, particularly Cyprus and Slovenia.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 7, 2012

Study links teamwork, communication with quality of nursing home care

A study found that nursing home staff cohesion improves care quality, leading to reduced incidence of incontinence and pressure ulcers. The research used data from over 45,000 residents in 162 facilities across New York State, revealing a significant association between staff cohesion and better health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalHealth Services Research·DateJun 7, 2012

Pre-existing mutations can lead to drug resistance in HIV virus

A recent study found that pre-existing mutations in HIV patients can cause the virus to develop resistance to drugs used to slow its progression. The study, published in PLOS Computational Biology, suggests that understanding how resistance evolves may lead to the development of more effective treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 7, 2012

Driving without a blind spot may be closer than it appears

A new driver's side mirror with a wider field of view has been patented, eliminating the blind spot for drivers. The curved mirror, invented by Drexel University math professor Dr. R. Andrew Hicks, gives drivers a wider view without significant visual distortion.

SourceDrexel University·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 7, 2012
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Nearly two-thirds of American osteoporotic hip fractures are seen in the extreme elderly

A new American study shows that nearly two-thirds of osteoporotic hip fractures occur in people aged 80 years or older, highlighting a growing concern as this population segment is expected to comprise 25% of the US population by 2050. The study recommends more aggressive measures to prevent, diagnose and treat osteoporosis, including ...

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 7, 2012