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Science News for March 28, 2012


Neutrons uncover new density waves in fermion liquids

Researchers used neutron scattering to observe zero-sound oscillations in a fermion liquid, which could be a mechanism for high-temperature superconductivity. The discovery reveals new density waves with atomic wavelength in the helium fluid, differing from previous findings in bulk liquids.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2012

US cancer death rates continue to decline, national report finds

US cancer death rates have declined between 2004 and 2008, with a decrease in cancer diagnoses for men and women. The rate of new cancer diagnoses decreased an average of less than one percent per year, while death rates from all cancers continued to fall.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalCancer·DateMar 28, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Afghans share unique genetic heritage, DNA analysis shows

A study of Afghan DNA reveals a shared genetic heritage with a common ancestral population emerging during the Neolithic revolution. The analysis indicates that early civilizations in the region contributed to the unique genetic diversity of Afghans, shaped by migrations and invasions.

SourceNational Geographic Society·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2012

Researchers identify new regulator in allergic diseases

Researchers have identified a genetic signature for regulation of IL-13, a key immune hormone involved in allergic reactions. MicroRNA miR-375 is regulated by IL-13 and plays a role in asthma and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a severe food allergy.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateMar 28, 2012

Launch of PLoS Currents: Disasters

PLoS Currents: Disasters is a new publication channel for sharing research and operational analyses on disasters. It supports timely publishing and revision-friendly article formats.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Currents·DateMar 28, 2012

Study finds paramedics skilled in identifying strokes

A study found that paramedics can identify stroke patients with a 99.3% accuracy rate, making it a reliable indicator to activate the hospital's stroke team. However, sensitivity rates are lower, indicating room for improvement in reducing time to treatment for acute stroke patients.

SourceLoyola Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Sleep disturbances hurt memory consolidation

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that sleep disturbances significantly impair the overnight improvement and plateau performance of motor tasks in patients with sleep apnea. The authors concluded that optimal memory consolidation requires continuous sleep, independent of the total amount of sleep.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2012

University leads EUR 8million EU project to tackle obesity

The University of Liverpool is leading a EUR 8 million European project, SATIN, to develop and test new food products with satiating qualities to help control appetite and manage weight. The project aims to create foods that fill people up quicker and for longer, while maintaining a healthy balanced diet.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateMar 28, 2012

A new paradox on our plate?

A study published in the British Food Journal found that US consumers have a better understanding of dietary fats than French counterparts, which contradicts the notion that nutritional information encourages healthy eating habits. Researchers suggest that detailed nutritional knowledge may not be the key to healthy eating.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalBritish Food Journal·DateMar 28, 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.

Study reports validation and clinical application of the first point-of-care genetic test in medicine, regarding use of antiplatelet therapy following coronary interventions

A new point-of-care genetic test identifies CYP2C19*2 allele, a common variant associated with increased risk of major adverse events. The test enables personalized dual antiplatelet treatment, reducing complications and improving outcomes for patients after coronary interventions.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 28, 2012

No improvement in patient outcomes seen in hospitals with pay-for-performance programs

A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that the largest hospital-based pay-for-performance program in the US did not improve 30-day mortality rates for patients with acute conditions. Non-Premier hospitals showed similar outcomes to poor-performing Premier hospitals, suggesting that incentives may need to be adjusted.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2012

Fish oil added to yogurt may help consumers meet daily nutritional requirements

Researchers found that a 1% concentration of fish oil in savory-flavored yogurt can provide more than the recommended daily intake of n-3 fatty acids. The studies demonstrated high acceptance and flavor preference among nutritionally motivated consumers, suggesting a potential market for such products.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateMar 28, 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.

Penn researchers call for a re-examination of transplant waitlist prioritization

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that liver cancer patients are less likely to die or become too sick for a transplant while waiting on the list compared to non-HCC candidates. The study suggests re-examining the prioritization criteria used to determine waitlist placement.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateMar 28, 2012

Protein 'jailbreak' helps breast cancer cells live

A study published in Journal of Biological Chemistry reveals that protein survivin can prevent normal cell death when located outside the nucleus, but not inside. Researchers suggest measuring overall levels and locations of proteins like HDAC6 could provide new leads for investigating breast cancer.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 28, 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.

Gladstone Scientists identify key mechanism involved in Type 2 diabetes

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discover p75NTR's role in controlling glucose metabolism, finding that blocking this receptor enhances insulin's effectiveness. This breakthrough may lead to new therapies for Type 2 diabetes, a global health problem affecting over 20 million Americans.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2012

Major study shows that tobacco-related cancers and cervical cancer are important causes of death among working-age people in India

A new study published in The Lancet analyzed cancer death rates across India and found that oral, stomach, and lung cancers are major causes of death in men, while cervical, stomach, and breast cancers cause the most deaths among women. The study also highlighted significant geographical and social variations in cancer mortality rates.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 28, 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.

Penn research points to new way of preserving fertility for boys undergoing cancer treatment

A team led by Ralph Brinster at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine has successfully preserved spermatogonial stem cells in mice for over a decade, demonstrating their viability and ability to produce healthy offspring. The study provides promising evidence for a potential fertility treatment in humans, address...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 28, 2012

Study finds circle hooks lower catch rate for offshore anglers

Research from North Carolina State University finds that broadening circle hook requirements could decrease catch rates for yellowfin tuna and other non-billfish species. Circle hooks were only 60-70% as effective as J hooks in catching these species, making them less suitable for offshore anglers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMar 28, 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.

How to save Europe's most threatened butterflies

European butterflies are under threat, with 10% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and poor management. A new publication provides practical guidelines for managing habitats in a sustainable way, supporting biodiversity and human survival.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateMar 28, 2012

Writing the book of cancer knowledge

The Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia offers a comprehensive resource for cancer research, integrating gene expression, chromosomal copy number, and pharmacological profiles. This will enable researchers to predict drug sensitivity and improve the success rate of drug development in personalized medicine.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2012

Program prepares indigenous students for science careers

The University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute has received a $1.8 million grant to expand a program encouraging Native middle-school students to pursue science and technology careers. The PREPARES project will provide professional development and mentoring to educators, enabling them to incorporate climate research into thei...

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateMar 28, 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.

Researchers identify genetic basis of tropical foot and leg lymphedema

A genome-wide association study reveals eight genetic variants linked to podoconiosis, a painful inflammation of the lower extremities caused by volcanic dust exposure. Wearing shoes can prevent the disease, and those with the gene variants are up to 3 times more likely to become affected.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2012

Major networking opportunity

The IMEx Consortium provides a single interface for querying experimental interaction data, making it easier to understand an organism's interactome. With over 100 million curated binary pairs, scientists can identify supported protein interactions and compare new results with publicly available data.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 28, 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.

Taking some time off can help when learning a new language

A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that learning a new language can improve with time off. Adult subjects who took a break after high proficiency showed no decline in abilities and even processed the language more naturally. This unexpected result may be attributed to the brain's ability to reorganize and adapt.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2012

Fusion presents low proliferation risk, experts conclude

American researchers conclude that prospective magnetic fusion power systems would pose a much lower risk of being used for the production of weapon-usable materials. The study found that with IAEA safeguards, there is little risk of fissile materials being produced for weapons.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateMar 28, 2012

UV photographs of 12-year-olds show skin cancer risk

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that UV photographs can predict melanoma risk factors in 12-year-olds. The study's results suggest that primary care physicians can use UV photography to provide better sun protection counseling, potentially preventing melanoma cases.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateMar 28, 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.

How to save Europe's most threatened butterflies

A new report provides crucial information on how to conserve European butterfly species listed on the EU Habitats Directive. The guidelines include detailed accounts of each species' habitat requirements and food-plants, as well as dos and don'ts in managing their habitats.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Conservation·DateMar 28, 2012

States keep up with ozone mandates

A Rice University study found that federal efforts were most effective at reducing pollutants, while state implementation plans played a smaller role. The study's findings suggest that nationally, ozone levels have improved substantially due to federal and EPA efforts.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateMar 28, 2012

In immersion foreign language learning, adults attain, retain native speaker brain pattern

Research at Georgetown University Medical Center found that adults learning a foreign language can come to use the same brain mechanisms as native speakers, particularly with immersion training. The brain consolidates knowledge of the foreign language over time, similar to other skills like riding a bike or playing a musical instrument.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2012

In the beginning...was the beaker?

Researchers at Brookhaven Lab used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize how protein machines bind to DNA strands, setting up for duplication. This study may lead to new ways to attack cancers by targeting the basic process of cell division.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·DateMar 28, 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.

Milky Way image reveals detail of a billion stars

Astronomers captured a unique image of over 10,000 stars in the Milky Way's centre, revealing large structures like gas and dust clouds. The image, created by combining infra-red light data from two telescopes, offers new insights into the galaxy's structure.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateMar 28, 2012

The path to personalized cancer treatment

A large-scale study has identified hundreds of associations between mutations in cancer genes and sensitivity to anticancer drugs. The research may lead to more effective treatments for childhood bone cancer, such as Ewing's sarcoma, by targeting specific genetic markers.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2012

With you in the room, bacteria counts spike

Researchers found that human presence causes a substantial increase in airborne bacterial and fungal particles, with sizes affecting filtration and recirculation. The study, led by Yale University engineers, aims to improve air quality by understanding the dynamics of indoor biological aerosols.

SourceYale University·JournalIndoor Air·DateMar 28, 2012

Low levels of resistant bacteria found in Chicago-area ambulances

A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that approximately six percent of Chicago-area ambulance sites sampled positive for Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium causing serious infections. The research also revealed that 77% of isolates detected showed resistance to at least one commonly used antibiotic

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateMar 28, 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.

Genome study confirms immune system link to disfiguring leg swelling

A genome study has identified three genetic variants associated with an increased risk of podoconiosis, a disabling leg swelling caused by an abnormal reaction to soil minerals. The discovery confirms the immune system link to the disease and suggests that drugs targeting immune responses may be useful in treating it.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2012

Genetic abnormality offers diagnostic hope for children's cancer

A study led by experts at the University of Nottingham has discovered a link between chromosomal abnormalities and survival rates in children with brain cancer. The research identified increased copies of chromosome 1q25 as associated with poorer outcomes, paving the way for a new diagnostic test.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 28, 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.

More than half of all cancer is preventable

According to Washington University public health researchers, more than half of all cancer is preventable through lifestyle choices and societal changes. The main obstacles to implementing these strategies include skepticism, short-term focus, intervening too late in life, research focusing on treatment rather than prevention, debate a...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 28, 2012

Does BMI affect post-surgical complications, survival in esophageal adenocarcinoma?

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center found no link between body mass index (BMI) and post-surgical complications or survival rates among esophageal cancer patients. The study, published in the Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery, included 303 patients treated with chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJournal of Gastrointestinal Surgery·DateMar 28, 2012

Hops compounds improve health of obese diabetic mice

A class of compounds found in hops has been shown to reduce weight gain and improve gut permeability in obese and diabetic mice. The treatment also normalized insulin sensitivity markers, suggesting a novel mechanism for improving metabolic health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2012

Rhode Island Hospital study identifies the danger of grill brushes

A Rhode Island Hospital study highlights the dangers of accidental ingestion of wire grill brush bristles, which can lead to surgery and severe complications. The study identified six cases within an 18-month period, emphasizing the need for public awareness and physicians' attention to this potential danger.

SourceLifespan·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMar 28, 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.

New layer of genetic information discovered

Researchers at UCSF find hidden genetic code layer influencing protein synthesis rates, even in 'silent' mutations. The discovery challenges long-held assumptions and may accelerate industrial protein production for biofuels and medicines.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2012

International commission offers road map to sustainable agriculture

The Commission on Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change proposes seven policy responses to address the global challenge of feeding a world confronted by climate change. The report highlights opportunities under the Rio+20 Earth Summit, UNFCCC, and G20 mandates, and calls for changes in policy, finance, agriculture, development aid...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateMar 28, 2012

Study unravels health impact, interplay of diet soft drinks and overall diet

A new study found that people who consumed diet beverages tended to be less healthy than those who didn't, but had lower risks when paired with a prudent diet. Those who ate a western diet had increased risk of heart disease regardless of diet drink consumption.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 28, 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.

Om: Meditation a big help for emotional issues

A UCSF-led study finds that meditation significantly reduces destructive emotions and improves social and emotional behavior in female schoolteachers. The study's findings suggest increased awareness of mental processes can influence emotional behavior, leading to better relationships and overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalEmotion·DateMar 28, 2012

Hot on the trail of metabolic diseases and resistance to antibiotics

Researchers have successfully decoded the atomic structure of the TM287/288 ABC transporter, a heterodimeric protein involved in antibiotic resistance and metabolic disorders. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments against multi-resistant bacteria and tumors.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 28, 2012

Weight loss and increased fitness slow decline of mobility in adults

The study found that weight loss and improved fitness nearly halved the risk of losing mobility in overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes. Weight loss was a stronger predictor of better mobility than improved fitness, contributing significantly to the observed reduction in risk.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Innovative cell printing technologies hold promise for tissue engineering R&D

New cell printing technology enables precise pattern formation of human cells, paving the way for advancement in tissue engineering and regeneration. Researchers demonstrated the use of acoustic droplet ejection followed by aqueous two-phase exclusion patterning to control cell placement.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTissue Engineering Part C Methods·DateMar 28, 2012

GPs should advise drinkers to keep a daily record of their drinking

A new study found that encouraging patients to monitor their daily alcohol intake, typically through keeping a record, is the most effective piece of advice in reducing drinking. This simple task raises awareness of behavior and helps individuals stay within set limits, leading to significant reductions in consumption.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateMar 28, 2012