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Science News for May 15, 2012


Reported increase in older adult fall deaths due to improved coding

A recent report from the Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy found a significant increase in older adult fall deaths following the introduction of ICD-10 update in 1999. The study revealed that improved reporting quality, rather than actual increases in fatal falls, was the main contributor to the rise in mortality rate.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPublic Health Reports·DateMay 15, 2012

A supernova cocoon breakthrough

Researchers observed a supernova's X-ray emission breaking through a cocoon of dense gas surrounding the star. The data support the idea that some supernovas are powered by blast waves interacting with surrounding material. Additionally, the discovery hints at an unrelated ultraluminous X-ray source nearby.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 15, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Elephant seal tracking reveals hidden lives of deep-diving animals

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, tracked nearly 300 elephant seals using satellite tags, revealing their movements and diving behavior. The study found that these animals target a specific boundary zone between two ocean currents, which supports a robust food web and drives the growth of phytoplankton.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2012

Clinical news alert: Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons May highlights

The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons May issue highlights new review articles on treating pediatric toe walking, managing pain after rotator cuff surgery, and other orthopaedic topics. The articles provide insights into diagnosis, treatment options, and patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMay 15, 2012

Video-assisted thoracic surgery valuable tool in lung cancer screening

A recent study found VATS resection in CT-screened high-risk Danish population yielded higher incidence of early stage lung cancer. The study detected 68 lung cancers in the screened group versus 24 in the unscreened group, with 51 patients suitable for surgery and 84% undergoing VATS.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMay 15, 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.

Robot-assisted surgery now favored treatment for kidney cancer

A new study by Henry Ford Hospital urologists finds that robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPD) offers fewer complications than laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN), but notes limitations due to data availability on surgical expertise and cancer complexity. The procedure has become the standard treatment for kidney cancer, with co...

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateMay 15, 2012

Delivery system for gene therapy may help treat arthritis

Researchers found that injecting DNA nanoparticles increased expression of indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO), an enzyme that calms the immune response, significantly reducing limb joint swelling and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. This suggests a potential therapeutic value for gene therapy in autoimmune diseases.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMay 15, 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.

'Mixed' family moms ensure minority culture continues in the home

Research finds that mothers in 'mixed' families are taking charge of teaching their children about minority cultures, leading to a stronger sense of identity. This initiative aims to provide relationship support for couples with different racial or ethnic backgrounds, promoting understanding and dealing with cultural differences.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMay 15, 2012

Research: 'Modern Portfolio Theory' optimizes conservation practices

A study from the University of Illinois demonstrates that adapting Modern Portfolio Theory for conservation purposes can help reduce outcome variation under climate change. By diversifying strategically across space, conservationists can achieve a 15% higher value of the conservation-objective-per-dollar-spent while reducing uncertainty.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2012

Cellular metabolism linked to anxiety disorders

A mouse model showed that GLO1 activity stimulates GABAA receptors, promoting anxious behavior. Inhibition of GLO1 reduces anxious behavior, suggesting it as a potential novel therapeutic target for anxiety disorders and other CNS diseases.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2012

Maps of Miscanthus genome offer insight into grass evolution

Two studies have produced independent chromosome maps of Miscanthus sinensis, revealing the process of genetic duplication and fusion that led to its emergence. The findings provide insights into the evolution of grasses and their desirable traits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBMC Genomics·DateMay 15, 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.

JoVE partners with US government to publish cutting-edge defense research

Researchers at Temple University and State University of New York Buffalo have published groundbreaking techniques for detecting biological threats using electricity-free devices. The articles, sponsored by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, provide a safer world by reducing the threat of weapons of mass destruction.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateMay 15, 2012

For highly educated women, families are an increasingly popular option

A national study shows fertility increasing for older, highly educated women since the 1990s, while childlessness declined by roughly 5 percentage points. The study suggests possible explanations, including changes in childcare expenses and men taking more responsibility for childcare.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Population Economics·DateMay 15, 2012

Ultrasensitive biosensor promising for medical diagnostics

Researchers have created a highly sensitive biosensor that can detect biomolecules without the need for a reference electrode, enabling miniaturization and low-cost applications. The device has potential applications in personalized medicine and early cancer diagnosis.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2012
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study examines BI-RADS and MRI in predicting breast cancer

A multicenter study found that the Breast Imaging and Reporting Data Systems (BI-RADS) terminology used by radiologists is useful in predicting malignancy in breast lesions detected with MRI. Features such as irregular shape, spiculated margins, and marked enhancement are most predictive of cancer.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 15, 2012

Surgeons restore some hand function to quadriplegic patient

A new surgical technique has restored some hand function to a quadriplegic patient with a spinal cord injury, allowing for basic independence. The procedure involves rerouting working nerves in the upper arms and can potentially benefit patients with C6 and C7 spinal cord injuries.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateMay 15, 2012

National Psoriasis Foundation awards more than $2 million for research

The National Psoriasis Foundation has awarded a record $2.06 million in grants to 26 scientists studying psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, aiming to advance knowledge and lead to new treatments. The foundation's mission is to find a cure for these autoimmune diseases through research, advocacy, and education.

SourceNational Psoriasis Foundation·DateMay 15, 2012

Lenalidomide prolongs disease control for multiple myeloma patients after stem cell transplant

A Phase III clinical trial found lenalidomide treatment decreased the risk of progressive myeloma or death in stem cell transplant patients, with a 63 percent reduction in disease progression risk. The study's results support the use of lenalidomide maintenance therapy after stem cell transplantation to improve patient outcomes.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 15, 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.

Mystery gene reveals new mechanism for anxiety disorders

Researchers discovered a link between the metabolic system and brain activity in anxiety disorders, finding that increasing Glo1 expression lowers methylglyoxal levels, reducing anxiety behaviors. A small molecule inhibitor of Glo1 showed promise in reducing anxiety-like symptoms in mice.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 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.

Saving the planet, 1 microwave at a time

A recent study found that 54% of microwaves in the UK are disposed of for cosmetic reasons or minor faults, and 85% can be safely repaired. Simple design changes could prevent these issues altogether, reducing waste and conserving resources.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateMay 15, 2012

Researchers identify key genes and prototype predictive test for schizophrenia

A comprehensive list of genes associated with schizophrenia has been identified, enabling the development of a predictive test that can estimate an individual's risk of developing the disease. The test, which predicts schizophrenia risk in about two-thirds of cases, holds promise for early intervention and treatment.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 15, 2012

Chemotherapy's effect on overall survival seems to increase based on tumor size

A recent study suggests a positive correlation between tumor size and chemotherapy efficacy in surgically resected patients with node-negative non-small cell lung cancer. The study found no clear threshold for tumor size that correlated with a benefit from chemotherapy.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMay 15, 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.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound monitors aortic aneurysm treatment

A new study found that contrast-enhanced ultrasound is a highly effective method for monitoring patients after endovascular repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms. The technique offers real-time exploration without ionizing radiation or kidney damage, supporting its integration in EVAR follow-up.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 15, 2012

Statistical analysis projects future temperatures in North America

Researchers at Ohio State University have combined different climate models using spatial statistics to project future seasonal temperature changes in North America. The analysis estimates that average land temperatures will rise around 2.5 degrees Celsius by 2070, with regional temperature rises varying across seasons and regions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation·DateMay 15, 2012

A 5-minute chat can be a big help to dialysis patients

A study found that brief conversations about healthy dialysis lifestyles increased patient satisfaction scores by 12% and improved compliance rates. Researchers used a 'talking control support therapy' approach, where health professionals had informal chats with patients while they underwent dialysis.

SourceLoyola Medicine·DateMay 15, 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.

JCI early table of contents for May 15, 2012

Research reveals a link between Glyoxylase 1 and increased anxiety in mice, with implications for potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, studies provide hope for new treatments for the rare disease Beare-Stevens syndrome and graft versus host disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2012

New 'metamaterial' practical for optical advances

Purdue researchers create new metamaterials by replacing traditional metals with aluminum-doped zinc oxide, offering improved performance and semiconductor compatibility. This breakthrough enables the development of ultra-powerful microscopes, advanced sensors, and more efficient solar collectors.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2012

New evidence that many genes of small effect influence economic decisions and political attitudes

A new study by Cornell University researchers found that genetic factors explain some variation in people's political attitudes and economic decisions. However, the effects of individual genetic variants are tiny and scattered across the genome, making it difficult to predict economic and political preferences.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 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.

National Geographic announces its Emerging Explorers for 2012

The National Geographic Emerging Explorers program recognizes young trailblazers in various fields who are pushing boundaries of discovery, adventure, and global problem-solving. The 2012 class includes cyborg anthropologist Amber Case, digital storyteller Lucy Cooke, and behavioral ecologist Iain Couzin.

SourceNational Geographic Society·DateMay 15, 2012

Undersea warriors, undersea medicine: The future force

The US Navy is conducting a multinational effort to clear the Baltic Sea of underwater mines, highlighting the importance of Undersea Medicine for national security. This field, designated a National Naval Responsibility, aims to protect America's undersea warriors from hazards like oxygen toxicity and decompression sickness.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateMay 15, 2012

Nerve transfers restore hand function after cervical spinal cord injury

A 71-year-old man regained partial thumb and finger movement after undergoing nerve transfer surgery to bypass a cervical spinal cord injury. The procedure, described as reducing the severity of the injury by placing healthy motor nerves close to damaged ones, took less time than traditional repair methods.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateMay 15, 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.

Female terrorists' bios belie stereotypes, study finds

Research published by the American Psychological Association reveals that female terrorists are more likely to be educated and employed than previously thought. The study found that women tend to have individual motivations for joining terrorist groups, rather than collective engagement, and often have family connections to terrorism.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·DateMay 15, 2012

All cancer cells are not created equal

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified a tumor-propagating cell required for growth in a pediatric muscle tumor model. Another type of differentiated tumor cell must first colonize new areas to prime an environment for metastatic growth.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 15, 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.

Stabilizing Fanconi anemia with antioxidants

Researchers found that a combination of alpha-lipoic acid and N-acetylcysteine can reduce DNA breaks and chromosome instability in Fanconi anemia patients by at least 60%. This treatment may help block or delay the progression of the disease.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalOrphanet Journal of Rare Diseases·DateMay 15, 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.

Researchers identify key genes and prototype predictive test for schizophrenia

A research team identified a comprehensive group of genes linked to schizophrenia and developed a prototype predictive test that can accurately assess an individual's risk of developing the disease. The test was able to predict schizophrenia risk in about two-thirds of cases, providing guidance for early intervention and treatment.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 15, 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.

Tiny plants could cut costs, shrink environmental footprint

Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that a widely available fungicide can inhibit steroid production in plants, resulting in smaller, more efficient varieties. These 'dwarfed' plants could significantly reduce agriculture's environmental footprint and costs for seed producers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2012

Spurious switching points in traded stock dynamics

A study by Vladimir Filimonov and Didier Sornette challenges the existence of power laws governing stock market volatility, volume, and intertrade times. They found that 'switching points' are actually caused by biased interpretation of market data statistics.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMay 15, 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.

LA BioMed receives Grand Challenges Explorations grant

LA BioMed has received a Grand Challenges Explorations grant to develop an innovative treatment for premature infants using aerosolized synthetic lung surfactant. The project aims to reduce breathing problems in preterm babies by providing a non-invasive approach.

SourceLA BioMed·DateMay 15, 2012

Why omega-3 oils help at the cellular level

Scientists at UC San Diego mapped omega-3 fatty acid processes in mouse cells, discovering that they inhibit an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX) and potentially generating anti-inflammatory compounds from EPA and DHA. This finding suggests possible manipulation to short-circuit inflammation or boost health benefits.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2012

Early biomarker for pancreatic cancer identified

A new biomarker, PEAK1, has been identified for pancreatic cancer, a disease with low survival rates. Inhibition of PEAK1-dependent signaling sensitizes PDAC cells to existing chemotherapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Research·DateMay 15, 2012

Anti-HIV drug tenofovir is safe to take during pregnancy

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that pre-birth exposure to tenofovir did not increase birth defects or growth abnormalities among infants born to African HIV-positive women. The researchers analyzed data from the DART trial and found no adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes or infant health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 15, 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.

UMD finding may hold key to Gaia hypothesis

A new study by UMD researchers provides a tool for tracing sulfur compounds through ocean organisms, atmosphere, and land, potentially proving or disproving the Gaia theory. The discovery reveals differences in sulfur compound metabolism that carry implications for tracking dimethylsulfide emissions and climate regulation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2012

Scientists discover marker to identify, attack breast cancer stem cells

Researchers identified a cell surface protein ganglioside GD2 that flags breast cancer stem cells as potent tumor-generating cells. A small molecule drug triptolide inhibits GD3 synthase, essential to GD2 production, and stymies cancer growth in preclinical tests.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2012

Sulphur and iron compounds common in old shipwrecks

Researchers have discovered high levels of sulphur and iron compounds in shipwrecks off the west coast of Sweden, including warships and Viking vessels. The presence of toxic hydrogen sulphide poses a risk to wooden hulls and requires special conservation procedures to prevent damage.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateMay 15, 2012

When the soil holds not enough phosphorus

Scientists at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência have identified a new phosphate transporter in plant root cells that plays a crucial role in phosphorus uptake when Pi is scarce. The discovery provides insight into how phosphate transport systems can be manipulated to counteract stressful conditions and potentially improve crop yields.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalNew Phytologist·DateMay 15, 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.

Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy may be used to predict Parkinson's

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center have discovered alpha-synuclein protein in the intestinal wall of patients with early Parkinson's disease, but not healthy subjects. This finding may lead to pre-motor diagnosis and accurate biomarkers for tracking its progress.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalMovement Disorders·DateMay 15, 2012

The elusive capacity of networks

Researchers at MIT demonstrate that network coding and error-correcting codes can be handled separately in wired networks, increasing capacity. In contrast, wireless networks pose challenges due to interference, but upper and lower bounds on capacities are calculated, providing a guide for future research.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Theory·DateMay 15, 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.

Sugar makes you stupid

A new UCLA study reveals that a high-fructose diet can slow the brain and impair memory and learning. However, adding omega-3 fatty acids to the diet may help minimize this damage.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMay 15, 2012

Dietary supplements increase cancer risk

High doses of beta-carotene, selenium, and folic acid have been shown to increase cancer risk in a recent study. The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has warned that these supplements should not be taken beyond their recommended daily allowance.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateMay 15, 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.

Palpitations are predictive of future atrial fibrillation

A large cohort study found that history of palpitations and hypertension are significant risk factors for atrial fibrillation in both men and women. Palpitations increased the risk of AF by 62% in women and 91% in men, while hypertension doubled the risk in women and increased it by 40% in men.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMay 15, 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.

People see sexy pictures of women as objects, not people

A new study published in Psychological Science finds that both men and women perceive images of sexy women's bodies as objects, while they view sexy-looking men as people. This study contributes to our understanding of objectification and its impact on human perception.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 15, 2012

Reducing off-label use of antipsychotic medications may save money

A Penn State study found that 57.6% of patients prescribed antipsychotic medications in 2003 did not have schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, highlighting potential savings through reduced off-label use. The study suggests that Medicaid programs may benefit from reducing non-FDA-approved use of these medications.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateMay 15, 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.