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Science News for March 21, 2012


Dance like a neutrino: Quantum scheme to simulate neutrino oscillations

Physicists at the National University of Singapore have developed a scheme to simulate neutrino oscillations using three charged ions. This quantum simulation could aid in understanding more complex models of neutrino behavior and potentially inspire simulations of other particles with similar properties.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateMar 21, 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.

NIST findings awaken age-old anesthesia question

Scientists at NIST and NIH discovered that inhaled anesthetics may alter the organization of fat molecules in a cell's outer membrane, affecting nerve cell signaling. This finding opens up a new line of inquiry into the long-standing question of how anesthesia works.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalLangmuir·DateMar 21, 2012

U of I study: Distiller's grain safe for pigs, even with sulfur content

A University of Illinois study found that swine producers can safely feed distiller's dried grain with solubles (DDGS) to their pigs despite high sulfur content. The research showed no difference in palatability or growth performance between low-sulfur and high-sulfur DDGS diets.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMar 21, 2012

Autism risk gene linked to differences in brain structure

Researchers found structural differences in brains of healthy carriers of the CNTNAP2 gene variant, which may contribute to increased vulnerability for autism. The study suggests that genetic variations can affect brain connectivity and signaling, leading to functional abnormalities characteristic of neuropsychological disorders.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateMar 21, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Keeping track to selenium metabolism

Scientists have developed a new method for studying selenium metabolism in living organisms, which could help clarify the element's potential anti-tumor properties. The technique uses enriched stable isotopes to track selenium concentrations in biological tissues and fluids, revealing its presence and behavior in the body.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateMar 21, 2012

Sharp rise in cases of new strain of whooping cough

A new genotype of the Bordetella pertussis bacterium has been identified as responsible for a sharp rise in whooping cough cases in Australia. The strain is believed to be evading the current acellular vaccine's protective effects, leading to an increase in life-threatening respiratory illness.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateMar 21, 2012

Dense breasts can nearly double the risk of breast cancer recurrence

Research presented at the European Breast Cancer Conference found that women with denser breasts have a nearly double risk of local recurrence. The study, which involved 1,774 post-menopausal women, highlights the importance of considering breast density in treatment decisions and follow-up routines.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateMar 21, 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.

Mercury's surprising core and landscape curiosities

Scientists have found that Mercury's core is larger than anticipated, occupying 85% of the planet's radius. The planet's topography shows smaller elevation ranges compared to Mars or the Moon, with evidence of large-scale changes since its geological history.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateMar 21, 2012

People without a sense of smell have enhanced social insecurity

A study published in PLOS ONE found that individuals without a sense of smell have increased social insecurity and risk for depression. They also experienced increased risk for household accidents despite not having significant deviations from daily functions like food preferences.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 21, 2012

Ronald Dubner named 2012 AADR Distinguished Scientist

Dr. Ronald Dubner, a professor at University of Maryland, Baltimore, received the 2012 AADR Distinguished Scientist Award for his groundbreaking work on neurobiological mechanisms of orofacial acute and chronic pain. His research has been recognized for translating findings to improve healthcare.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2012

Research identifies the beginnings of COPD

Scientists have discovered that immune cells circulating in the blood enter the lungs' large airways, triggering inflammation and oxidative stress. This breakthrough helps clarify how smoking causes severe respiratory damage and may lead to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateMar 21, 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.

A structured, independent exercise regimen can reduce the need for therapy

A structured exercise regimen reduced physical therapy visits by 40% in workers' compensation patients after arthroscopic meniscectomy. The study supports the implementation of independent exercise protocols to reduce therapy costs without compromising patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMar 21, 2012

New study shows vast geographic variation in hip fracture risk

A new study has found a significant variation in hip fracture risk across the globe, with countries experiencing a 10-fold difference in incidence rates. The study's findings indicate that higher risk countries for both men and women are located in North Western and Central Europe.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateMar 21, 2012

Paramedics can play a key role in speedy care for heart attack patients

Paramedics can reduce medical contact to balloon time by calling ahead to activate helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS), speeding up patient care. This study found that HEMS activation in the field or at a smaller hospital can save up to 48 minutes of treatment time

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateMar 21, 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.

USDA Forest Service and NASA release Web-based forest disturbance monitoring tool

The USDA Forest Service's Eastern Forest and Western Wildland Environmental Threat Assessment Centers have unveiled a new satellite-based monitoring and assessment tool called ForWarn. This web-based tool recognizes and tracks potential forest disturbances caused by various natural or human-caused events, providing near-real-time views...

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·DateMar 21, 2012

Thromboembolic events are uncommon following ankle fracture surgery

Researchers found that thromboembolic events following ankle fracture surgery are uncommon, with most patients experiencing no complications. The study suggests that surgical treatment for ankle fractures does not significantly increase the risk of blood clots or pulmonary embolism.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMar 21, 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.

Mice infected with Toxoplasma gondii parasite show Alzheimer's improvements

A study published in PLOS ONE found that Toxoplasma gondii infection suppressed the immune system, leading to a significant decrease in b-amyloid plaque deposition and improved performance in behavior tests like the water maze. This suggests that the parasite may have favorable effects on Alzheimer's disease progression.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 21, 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.

US scientist helps lead international study of ocean value

A recent study led by a US scientist estimates that human impacts on the ocean could cost the global economy over $1 trillion per year by 2100. The research highlights the urgent need to reduce pollution, overfishing, and other threats to ocean health.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·DateMar 21, 2012

Middle school teacher support lowers risk for early alcohol use

Middle school students with emotional support from teachers are less likely to initiate alcohol and illicit substance use. Youth experiencing separation anxiety from parents also show a decreased risk of early alcohol use, according to the study.

SourceSeattle Children's·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateMar 21, 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.

TMJ: Stem cell biology and engineering toward clinical translation

A symposium on TMJ stem cell biology and engineering presents novel clinical therapy approaches for TMJ disorders. Researchers discuss the origin, homeostasis, differentiation, hormonal regulation, and bioengineering of temporomandibular joint tissues.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2012

Study shines light on brain mechanism that controls reward enjoyment

A study led by neuroscientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine found that activation of GABA neurons in a specific area of the midbrain inhibits dopamine neuron function, leading to a disruption in reward consumption. This discovery could lead to new mental health therapies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNeuron·DateMar 21, 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.

Claus Christiansen awarded the Herbert A. Fleisch ESCEO-IOF medal

Dr. Claus Christiansen received the ESCEO-IOF Medal for his groundbreaking work on calcium metabolism in postmenopausal women. He has published extensively over 900 articles and book chapters, and has been a leading figure in osteoporosis research for over three decades.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateMar 21, 2012

Genetic mutation found in familial chronic diarrhea syndrome

Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation that causes familial chronic diarrhea syndrome, which could lead to new treatments for similar conditions. The mutation affects the GUCY2C gene, leading to constant signaling in the intestines and potentially causing inflammation and diarrhea.

SourceHudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 21, 2012

Discovery offers insight into treating viral stomach flu

Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding how to treat the lethal norovirus, which causes severe gastroenteritis. The study reveals that antibodies can bind to the virus's unique structure, potentially leading to the development of more effective vaccines and treatments.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMar 21, 2012

Nanopower: Avoiding electrolyte failure in nanoscale lithum batteries

Researchers at NIST and partners have demonstrated that the thickness of the electrolyte layer is crucial in determining the performance of nanoscale lithium batteries. The team found that below a threshold of 200 nanometers, electrons can cause a short circuit, leading to rapid discharge and breakdown of the electrolyte.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 21, 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.

What makes a successful pregnancy?

A study published in Advances in Neuroimmune Biology explores how maternal immunological tolerance of the fetus affects pregnancy outcomes. Researchers have discovered that cytokine expression at the fetal-maternal interface plays a significant role in determining oocyte competence and implantation rates.

SourceIOS Press·JournalAdvances in Neuroimmune Biology·DateMar 21, 2012

AADR renames award to honor its first recipient

The American Association for Dental Research (AADR) has renamed its award to honor Dr. Irwin D. Mandel's contributions to dental research and mentorship. The newly named Irwin D. Mandel Distinguished Mentoring Award recognizes outstanding efforts to foster and promote research training and career development.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2012

Key to immune system disease could lie inside the cheek

Researchers at Cardiff University discovered a new group of cells with strong immunosuppressive properties derived from cheek tissue. These cells can completely inhibit lymphocyte action with small doses, offering promise for combating diseases like diabetes and organ rejection.

SourceCardiff University·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMar 21, 2012

Hospitalization associated with increased cognitive decline in older adults

A new study published in Neurology suggests that hospitalization in older adults is associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline. The study, which analyzed data from 1,870 participants over 12 years, found that overall cognitive function declined more than twice as fast after a first hospital stay.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateMar 21, 2012

Will you have a heart attack? New test can possibly predict

A new study published in Science Translational Medicine shows a promising blood test that can predict who is at risk for an imminent heart attack, potentially saving thousands of lives. The test uses circulating endothelial cells, which are abnormally large and misshapen in patients with acute myocardial infarction.

SourceScripps Health·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 21, 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.

20-year results from breast cancer screening program show a significant drop in deaths, limited harm and reasonable costs

A 20-year breast cancer screening program in the Netherlands showed a significant drop in deaths from the disease, with a 31% reduction in deaths among women aged 55-79. The program also found limited harm from false positives and over-diagnosis, with only 2.8% of all breast cancers diagnosed being over-diagnosed.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateMar 21, 2012

AADR awards the 2012 AADR William B. Clark Fellowship to Leena Palomo

The AADR William B. Clark Fellowship will support Dr. Palomo's research on bisphosphonates and their effect on the periodontium in postmenopausal women. The award aims to advance knowledge for the improvement of oral health through clinical research.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 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.

Study on swirls to optimize contacts between fluids

A new study optimizes fluid mixing in bioreactors by controlling undercurrents to improve cell exposure. Researchers found that rotating inner cylinders and adjusting fluid velocities can create homogeneous feeding of cells from a liquid nutrient supply.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 21, 2012

Quantum plasmons demonstrated in atomic-scale nanoparticles

Researchers at Stanford University have directly observed plasmon resonances in individual metal particles measuring down to one nanometer in diameter. This discovery could lead to advancements in catalytic processes, cancer research and treatment, and quantum computing.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2012

Antidepressant use during pregnancy and high blood pressure

Research found that selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor antidepressants may increase the risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension by 60%, with one SSRI associated with an 81% increase. Women should consult their doctor if concerned, as discontinuation can lead to depressive relapses and post-partum depression.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateMar 21, 2012

Stress management for breast cancer patients may affect disease course

A stress management program for breast cancer patients can alter tumor-promoting processes at the molecular level, facilitating better recovery during treatment. The study found that women who participated in the program had improved psychological adaptation and physiological changes indicating better recovery.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 21, 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.

Low socioeconomic status means worse health -- but not for everyone

Children growing up in poverty are more likely to develop chronic diseases due to stress. However, research suggests that positive role models and teaching children stress-coping strategies like 'shift-and-persist' may improve their health outcomes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateMar 21, 2012

New models predict patterns of brain damage in dementia

Two studies published in Neuron have developed groundbreaking models that predict the landscape of degeneration in various forms of dementia. The models, which focus on structural and functional connectivity networks, suggest that dementias target specific networks of neurons linked by connectivity rather than spatial proximity.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMar 21, 2012

Drosophila meeting poster award recipients announced

The Genetics Society of America announced nine award recipients for their poster presentations at the 53rd Annual Drosophila Research Conference. The winners include undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers who showcased their research in the field of genetics.

SourceGenetics Society of America·DateMar 21, 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.

Puzzling over links between monkey research and human health

A systematic review of monkey studies found limited evidence for an association between social status and coronary artery disease. The study concludes that generalizing findings from monkeys to human societies is not warranted due to methodological limitations.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 21, 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.

AADR presents honorary membership to Richard H. Carmona

Dr. Richard H. Carmona receives AADR's Honorary Membership for his dedication to promoting oral health as U.S. Surgeon General and beyond. The American Association for Dental Research recognizes Dr. Carmona's significant contributions to dental research.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2012

Parents of children with cancer distrust and fear online sources of health information, study shows

A University at Buffalo study found that parents of pediatric cancer patients distrust online sources of health information and fear what they might encounter. Despite the accessibility of online medical information, caregivers preferred to receive information from trusted healthcare providers rather than the internet.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSociology of Health & Illness·DateMar 21, 2012

Decisions are taken more democratically with a higher percentage of women in management positions

A study by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid found that workplaces with a high percentage of women in management positions adopt more individualized employee feedback, democratic decisions, and establish more interpersonal channels of communication. This is attributed to the distinct behavior of men and women leaders in society.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateMar 21, 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.

Challenges in salivary diagnostics

Recent studies have increased interest in salivary biomarkers for diagnostics, but challenges persist in collection, storage, and quantitation of biomarkers. Researchers will discuss standardization procedures and address issues with proteomic methods.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 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.

Study: Stress-induced cortisol facilitates threat-related decision making among police officers

A study by Columbia Business School researchers found that stress-induced cortisol increases facilitate accurate threat-related decision making in police officers, especially when dealing with armed black targets. The findings suggest that police departments may benefit from modulating stress levels during training to improve accuracy.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalBehavioral Neuroscience·DateMar 21, 2012

Team finds atomic structure of molecule that binds to opioids in the brain

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have determined the three-dimensional atomic structure of a human opioid receptor, a molecule that binds to opioids and is involved in pain, pleasure, addiction, depression, and related conditions. The findings could lead to the development of better medicine for these conditions.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2012

Scientists discover new method of proton transfer

Researchers found protons can move efficiently in stacked systems of molecules, common in plant biomass, membranes, DNA, and elsewhere. This discovery could lead to better catalysts, fuels, and drugs.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 21, 2012

Diet may be affecting rhino reproduction

Researchers at San Diego Zoo find phytoestrogens in rhino diet linked to reproductive failure. The study compares captive populations with varying diets, revealing a key difference between successful and struggling reproduction.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalEndocrinology·DateMar 21, 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.

Military analytics expert says billions in supply chain efficiency reduce Pentagon cuts

A former Army colonel argues that improving supply chain alignment can help the Defense Department reduce costs by tens of billions of dollars. The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) conference highlights the use of advanced analytics and operations research to address pressing military challenges.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateMar 21, 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.

Effectiveness of bilingual education being studied

Dr. Raul Rojas receives $10,000 grant to study bilingual language growth in structured English immersion and transitional bilingual programs for over 1,700 ELLs. The research aims to positively influence educational efforts targeting ELLs across ages and instructional contexts.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateMar 21, 2012

Memory problems may increase after being hospitalized

A new study found that older people's memory and thinking skills decline faster after a first hospital stay compared to before or after discharge. Hospital stays were linked to significant declines in memory scores on specific tests, lasting even after adjusting for severe illness and age.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 21, 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.

Rewarding educational research: the scholarship of teaching and learning

The symposium discusses best practices for using educational research in the promotion and tenure process, facilitated by AADR's Education Research Group and the American Dental Education Association. Key findings highlight the importance of recognizing and applying educational research to advance teaching practice.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2012

Why spring is blooming marvelous (and climate change makes it earlier)

Research by Norwich BioScience Institutes and John Innes Centre identifies PIF4 as a control gene that activates flowering pathway in response to temperature. This discovery sheds light on why plants are flowering earlier due to climate change, with potential implications for developing temperature-resilient crops.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2012

Structure of 'Salvia' receptor solved

The discovery of the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) structure could lead to the development of new medications targeting addiction, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and other conditions. Salvinorin A, a hallucinogenic compound from the Salvia plant, interacts with only one receptor type in the human brain.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2012