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Science News for November 29, 2012


A multi-wavelength view of radio galaxy Hercules A

The study uses combined imaging power to unveil spectacular jets of the galaxy, powered by a 2.5-billion-solar-mass central black hole. The jets exhibit unusual ring-like structures and are composed of high-energy plasma beams, subatomic particles, and magnetic fields.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 29, 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.

Biology behind brain development disorder

Research identified UBE3B as the gene responsible for a rare developmental disorder in children, causing brain abnormalities and reduced growth. The study used a combination of DNA sequencing and mouse models to confirm the link between the gene mutation and the disorder.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 29, 2012

New grant funds autism research at SDSU

A four-year $600,000 grant from the National Institute of Mental Health will support an SDSU scientist's research on brain network connectivity in autistic children and adolescents. The study aims to understand how atypical brain connections link to impaired social functioning in children with autism.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateNov 29, 2012

High honor for 2 UC Riverside physicists

Richard Seto and Jing Shi, professors at the University of California, Riverside, have been elected APS Fellows for their innovative work in relativistic heavy ion physics and spin transport in organic semiconductors. Their research has led to significant discoveries in the study of hadronic matter and Quark Gluon Plasma.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateNov 29, 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.

Adolescent girls focus of New University of Houston study

A pilot study involving 30 at-risk adolescent girls will assess the feasibility and promise of a bundled risk reduction intervention to address HIV, alcohol-exposed pregnancy, and nicotine-exposed pregnancy. The intervention includes counseling sessions, pediatrician appointments, and referrals for smoking cessation.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 29, 2012

Grand Canyon as old as the dinosaurs, suggests new study led by CU-Boulder

Researchers at CU-Boulder have discovered that the western Grand Canyon was largely carved out of its current depth by about 70 million years ago, during the time of the dinosaurs. This new date challenges the conventional understanding of the canyon's formation and suggests a more complex history of geological events.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Musical duets lock brains as well as rhythms

A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that musical duets show coordinated brain oscillations, even when playing different voices of the same song. This suggests a direct neural basis for interpersonal coordination, with synchronized brain activity observed in regions associated with social cognition and music production.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateNov 29, 2012

Prenatal intervention reduces learning deficit in mice

Researchers at NIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development found that prenatal intervention with neuroprotective peptides reduces learning deficits in mice with Down syndrome-like characteristics. The study suggests potential therapeutic benefits for individuals with Down syndrome.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 29, 2012

6 faculty named Fellows of AAAS

Six Penn State faculty members have been named Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, including Peter Hudson, Soundar Kumara, Andrew Read, Nitin Samarth, Matthew Thomas, and Karl Zimmerer. They were recognized for their research in various fields, including wildlife disease ecology, interdisciplinary indust...

SourcePenn State·DateNov 29, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Clinical trial delivers good results in leukemia patients

A phase I clinical trial has shown that ponatinib is highly active against patients with chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic lymphoma who have developed resistance to standard treatments. The study's findings suggest that ponatinib will expand the therapeutic armamentarium for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 29, 2012

Defining career paths in health systems improvement

A new framework is proposed to guide career direction in health systems improvement, a term encompassing management, research, and public policy. The authors suggest that trainees consider reflecting on their preferences, identifying core areas of focus, and exploring additional formal training options.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateNov 29, 2012

Study sheds light on how pancreatic cancer begins

Researchers discovered that acinar cells convert into duct-like cells that initiate tumors in pancreatic cancer. Inflammation of the pancreas promotes this conversion. The study suggests Sox9 as a potential target to prevent early tumor-initiating events.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 29, 2012

Adapting fish defenses to block human infections

Undergraduate researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute created engineered surfaces that kill 34% of E.coli bacteria when peptides are lying flat, but 82% when attached vertically. The team developed a technique to monitor AMP attachment and plans to test other materials for optimal antimicrobial activity

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 29, 2012

Study focuses on returning wounded soldiers to meaningful civilian lives

Researchers aim to understand how service members with spinal cord injuries reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives. The three-year grant will study 60 veterans at different stages of recovery, exploring their long-term goals and expectations for community reintegration.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateNov 29, 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.

Predicting material fatigue

Scientists have created a novel concept for self-reporting materials that utilize zinc oxide tetrapod crystals to detect internal damages in composite materials. The resulting composite material exhibits improved strength and emits light when exposed to UV light, providing a visual warning of potential failure.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 29, 2012

Kidney disease progresses faster in African Americans than other races

African Americans experience faster progression of chronic kidney disease in later stages compared to other races. Screening for microalbuminuria is cost-effective for African Americans with diabetes or hypertension, improving care and reducing kidney failure risk.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 29, 2012

Cancer drug shows promise in eradicating latent HIV infection

Researchers discover that JQ1 can reactivate latent HIV by activating the virus in the presence of potent therapy, making it vulnerable to current treatments. The study also found potent suppression of inflammatory genes, suggesting its potential effectiveness against other inflammatory conditions.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 29, 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.

Inviting customer complaints can kill business: UBC research

A study from the Sauder School of Business at UBC found that when customers believe they're to blame for a product's failure, they're more likely to shift blame and increase ill will towards it. This can lead to negative ratings and decreased favorability after complaining.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 29, 2012

Precisely engineering 3-D brain tissues

Researchers use microfabrication techniques to create 3D brain tissues with precise control and manipulation, enabling the study of neuron connections and predicting cell responses to drugs. The new technique paves the way for developing bioengineered implants for organ systems and personalized medicine.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 29, 2012

Next-generation treatments for Fragile X syndrome

A new study has identified a potential therapeutic mechanism for Fragile X syndrome, which is the most common heritable form of autism and intellectual disability. Researchers have found that blocking the serotonin 7 receptor may reverse synaptic plasticity in mice with FXS, suggesting a new approach to treatment.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateNov 29, 2012

Behavior problems, not depression, linked to lower grades for depressed youths

A recent study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that behavior problems, including attention issues, delinquency, and substance use, are linked to lower grades for depressed adolescents. In contrast, depression itself is not directly associated with diminished academic achievement.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateNov 29, 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.

Activating ALC1: With a little help from friends

Researchers at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified a new way in which the chromatin-remodeling enzyme ALC1 is activated. Through biochemical experiments, they found that ALC1's shape shifts in the presence of its activators PARP1 and NAD+, making it accessible to regulate gene transcription and DNA repair.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 29, 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.

'Dark core' may not be so dark after all

Astronomers have found that a merging galaxy cluster's 'dark core' does not appear to be over-dense in dark matter. The study uses improved Hubble camera capabilities to map the cluster's dark matter distribution, with a ratio of 2.5 to 1 of dark matter to normal matter, aligning with expectations.

SourceOhio University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateNov 29, 2012

Hand use improved after spinal cord injury with noninvasive stimulation

Researchers developed a noninvasive stimulation protocol to temporarily improve hand function in people with spinal cord injuries. The treatment, paired with transcranial magnetic stimulation and electrical stimulation, successfully enhanced spinal cord transmission and voluntary motor output, leading to greater manual dexterity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 29, 2012

Diabetics with cancer dangerously ignore blood sugar

Researchers found that people with Type 2 diabetes who received diabetes education after a cancer diagnosis had fewer visits to the emergency room and hospital admissions. They also tested their blood sugar levels more often, resulting in lower healthcare costs.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateNov 29, 2012

Feeding the world fairly

A multidisciplinary group of scholars at Johns Hopkins University aims to develop guidelines for fair access to good food, addressing disparities in global nutrition. The project seeks moral common ground among experts and stakeholders from various fields.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateNov 29, 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.

Findings support safety of whooping cough vaccine for older adults

A new study found that the tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is safe for seniors, with minor injection site reactions being the most common adverse event. The study's findings support the recommendation that older adults receive the vaccine to protect themselves and others from pertussis.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateNov 29, 2012

Study reinforces safety of whooping cough vaccine for older adults

A Kaiser Permanente study found that Tdap vaccination is as safe as Td vaccination for adults 65 and older, with no increased risk of injection site reactions. The study provides empirical evidence supporting the use of Tdap in reducing pertussis infections among older adults.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateNov 29, 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.

Which group of Asian-American children is at highest risk for obesity?

A study found that Asian-Indian American children have the lowest rate of overweight or obesity (15.6%), while Vietnamese-American children have the highest rate (34.7%). This contrasts with other ethnic groups, highlighting the variability in obesity risk among different Asian-American communities.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateNov 29, 2012

Garbage bug may help lower the cost of biofuel

A team of researchers has discovered a bacterium that can efficiently degrade hemicellulose, a key component in biofuels. By unlocking this microbe's enzymes, scientists may be able to engineer microbes that can convert more plant material into fuel.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 29, 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.

Canada's first liver cell transplant takes place in Calgary

Physicians at Alberta Children's Hospital successfully completed the world's first liver cell transplant on a Canadian baby with Urea Cycle Disorder, improving ammonia levels and buying time for a potential liver transplant. The procedure was performed as part of a research trial sponsored by Cytonet LLC.

SourceAlberta Health Services·DateNov 29, 2012

Altimeter built at Goddard helped identify ice on Mercury

The MESSENGER spacecraft provided new lines of evidence for the existence of water ice on Mercury, with measurements from its laser altimeter and hydrogen concentrations from the neutron spectrometer. The findings suggest that ice is present near the north pole, covered by a layer of material in most areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Study helps resolve debate about how tumors spread

Researchers at University of California, San Diego School of Medicine discovered the reversible EMT switch in metastasis, resolving a decade-long debate. Activation of Twist1 gene promotes carcinoma cells to disseminate into blood circulation, while turning off EMT switch is crucial for proliferation and formation of secondary tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 29, 2012

International study provides more solid measure of melting in polar ice sheets

A new international study has reconciled measurements of ice sheet changes in Antarctica and Greenland, providing a more consistent estimate of their contribution to sea-level rise. The results show that the planet's two largest ice sheets have been losing ice faster during the past decade, causing widespread concern.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 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.

Meditation with art therapy can change your brain and lower anxiety

A study at Thomas Jefferson University found that meditation paired with art therapy significantly reduced stress and anxiety in women with breast cancer. The treatment altered brain activity, increasing emotional centers associated with positive emotions, stress regulation, and reward system function.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalStress and Health·DateNov 29, 2012

Industrial carbon management research gets $3.75 million boost

Eight new research projects receive funding from Carbon Management Canada to develop technologies for reducing CO2 emissions in industries such as cement and power generation. These projects will focus on innovative solutions for capturing, storing, and utilizing CO2, including sensor technology and carbon mineralization methods.

SourceCMC Research Institutes·DateNov 29, 2012

As cigarette taxes go up, heavy smoking goes down

A recent study found that heavy smokers who experienced significant price hikes from increased taxes reduced their smoking by an average of 35% more than lighter smokers. This suggests that higher taxes can lead to a substantial decrease in smoking behaviors among the most heavy users, which is a positive development for public health.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalTobacco Control·DateNov 29, 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.

Mild vibrations may provide some of the same benefits to obese people as exercise

A new study suggests that daily exposure to low-magnitude mechanical signals partially rescues B- and T-cell populations damaged by obesity, improving immune function. Brief daily vibration interventions showed promise in obese mice, potentially leading to a cheap and drug-free way for people to regain health.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 29, 2012

Marketing analytics ups Fortune 1000 return on assets 8 percent, says operations research study

A recent study finds that Fortune 1000 companies using marketing analytics see an average 8% increase in return on assets, with potential gains of $70-180 million in net income. The research highlights the key role of management support and analytics skills in successful marketing analytics deployments.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Research in Marketing·DateNov 29, 2012

NASA sees Tropical Storm Bopha moving through Southern Yap state

Tropical Storm Bopha is moving through Micronesia in the western North Pacific Ocean, triggering warnings and watches. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and wind gusts to Woleai and surrounding islands, with the center passing about 180 miles south of Woleai on Friday night.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 29, 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.

Working couples face greater odds of intimate partner violence

Intimate partner violence is more likely to occur in working couples, with over 60% of women reporting victimization. The study highlights the impact of female employment on relationship dynamics and suggests that clinicians should address specific risk factors and cultural differences when treating victims.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalViolence Against Women·DateNov 29, 2012

Alcoholic fly larvae need fix for learning

Research reveals that fly larvae fed alcohol-spiked food exhibit lasting changes in brain function, even after abstinence. This study provides insights into the neural mechanisms underlying ethanol dependence and its evolutionary roots.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 29, 2012

Promising drug slows down advance of Parkinson's disease and improves symptoms

Researchers found that GM1 ganglioside improved symptoms and slowed disease progression in patients with Parkinson's disease over a 2.5-year period. The study enrolled 77 subjects and followed them for 120 weeks, with significant benefits observed when participants stopped taking the drug.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of the Neurological Sciences·DateNov 29, 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.

Integrating science and policy to address the impacts of air pollution

Scientists from six countries emphasize the importance of collaboration between science and policy in addressing air pollution effects. Successful integration has led to significant improvements in reducing acid rain and eutrophication, but challenges persist, including nitrogen emissions and climate change.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Autism severity may stem from fear

A study by Brigham Young University found a strong correlation between the persistence of fears and the severity of classic symptoms of autism. Children with autism took longer to extinguish their original fear in response to a changing visual cue, highlighting the need to help them make emotional transitions.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalAutism Research·DateNov 29, 2012

When good service means bad behavior

A USC Marshall study found that smog check firms cluster with competitors, leading to lenient passing grades for cars that should fail. This practice could have passed 39,000 cars in New York State, contributing to public health problems.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalManagement Science·DateNov 29, 2012

Post-divorce journaling may hinder healing for some

A new study found that writing about emotions after a divorce can actually increase emotional distress in some individuals, particularly those prone to rumination. Non-expressive control writing may provide greater healing benefits for these individuals.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateNov 29, 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.

Can a genetic variation in the vitamin D receptor protect against osteoporosis?

A genetic variation in the vitamin D receptor has been linked to a decreased risk of developing osteoporosis, according to a meta-analysis of 26 studies. The study suggests that individuals with this variation may have a significantly lower risk of bone mineral density loss.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateNov 29, 2012

Treating coronary heart disease in kidney failure patients

A study found that open heart surgery is safer than angioplasty for dialysis patients with blocked arteries surrounding the heart, with five-year survival rates over 90% without kidney disease but dismal in kidney failure patients. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in kidney failure patients, affecting 30-60%.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 29, 2012

New insights into mosquitoes' role as involuntary bioterrorists

Recent research revealed mosquitoes possess surprisingly effective immune systems, destroying pathogens by utilizing the circulatory system's unique characteristics. A Vanderbilt study discovered a new mechanism for eliminating pathogens, increasing effectiveness in disease control strategies.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 29, 2012

UW-Madison scientists create roadmap to metabolic reprogramming for aging

Researchers created an atlas that maps molecular connections between caloric restriction and aging, identifying pathways in mitochondria that control metabolism. The study suggests therapies targeting Sirt3 function could provide novel interventions to prevent age-related illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 29, 2012

AAAS and the University of South Florida announce 2012 Fellows

Fifteen University of South Florida faculty were named AAAS Fellows this year, recognized for their scientifically or socially distinguished efforts. The university was among the top ten organizations worldwide with the most AAAS Fellows, alongside universities such as Michigan and California-Davis.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 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.

Jigsaw a critical piece of the Notch puzzle

Researchers have identified a key piece of the Notch signaling pathway, specifically a domain within the Notch receptor that is crucial for determining which ligand to bind. This finding provides a molecular handle for future studies and potential therapeutic targets for diseases such as cancer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

The beginning of everything: A new paradigm shift for the infant universe

Scientists at Penn State University developed a new paradigm for understanding the earliest eras of the universe, extending analyses to the Big Bang using loop quantum cosmology. The research reveals that fundamental fluctuations in space-time evolved into large-scale structures, challenging classical physics and inflationary theories.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 29, 2012

Oceanic crust breakthrough: Solving a magma mystery

Researchers have discovered that magma in oceanic crust is cycled through the Earth's surface before eruption, altering previous theories on the formation of oceanic crust. This breakthrough could help scientists better understand the conditions of mantle melting and production of the Earth's most-common rock.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 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.

Birds may spread, not halt, fever-bearing ticks

A Turkish biologist's review of existing scientific literature suggests that releasing non-native guineafowl in Turkey to eat ticks may actually spread the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus. The birds carry ticks on their feathers, which could facilitate the spread of the disease despite initial intentions.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateNov 29, 2012

Significant progress in intelligent radio-over-fiber (I-ROF) systems

Researchers developed a large dynamic, reconfigurable, distributed I-ROF system to meet the growing demand for broadband and ubiquitous information access. The system offers flexible wireless access and fiber-optic broadband transmission, providing effective solutions for modern information society.

SourceScience China Press·DateNov 29, 2012

New genetic test detects early breast cancer and identifies future risk

A new genetic test can accurately identify the presence of breast cancer tumors and predict the progression of tumor development. This breakthrough technology analyzes genetic switches to detect cancer growth, enabling earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment plans.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 29, 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.

First-ever hyperspectral images of Earth's auroras

A new hyperspectral camera has captured the first-ever images of auroras, revealing a previously unknown atmospheric phenomenon. The camera's unprecedented capabilities have enabled scientists to study auroras in unprecedented clarity, revealing subtle changes in atmospheric behavior.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateNov 29, 2012

X-ray laser helps fight sleeping sickness

Scientists have mapped a weak spot in the parasite that causes African sleeping sickness, providing a promising target for treating the disease. The study uses X-ray lasers to determine the structure of biological molecules, which could lead to the development of a new drug.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Short-term exposure to essential oils lowers blood pressure and heart rate

A study found that essential oils reduce blood pressure and heart rate in people exposed for less than an hour, but prolonged exposure is associated with increased heart rate and blood pressure. This suggests that aromatherapy may be beneficial for cardiovascular health when used correctly.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateNov 29, 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.

Gladstone scientists identify key biological mechanism in multiple sclerosis

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified a key underlying process implicated in MS, offering new hope for therapies to treat the disease. The discovery reveals that a protein called fibrinogen sets off an immune response in the brain, leading to nerve cell damage and debilitating symptoms.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2012

X-rays expose blueprint for possible sleeping sickness drug

Researchers exposed a possible Achilles' heel of the sleeping sickness parasite by solving its molecular structure with an X-ray laser. The discovery reveals a unique plug that can selectively block a vital enzyme, potentially killing the parasite without harming humans.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Researchers create a fly to study how a normal cell turns cancerous

Scientists at IRB Barcelona created a Drosophila melanogaster fly model that reproduces the steps of healthy cell transformation into cancer. The model can help identify genes and molecules involved in cancer progression, potentially leading to specific treatments for cells with genomic instability.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 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.

A human-caused climate change signal emerges from the noise

Climate scientists analyzed satellite observations and computer model simulations to find a human-caused climate change signal. The study found that tropospheric and stratospheric temperature changes are related to human activities, with the lower stratosphere cooling due to ozone depletion.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 2012

Clearest evidence yet of polar ice losses

An international team of satellite experts has produced the most accurate assessment of ice losses from Antarctica and Greenland to date, confirming both regions are losing ice. The study reveals that melting of the Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets has contributed significantly to global sea level rise over the past two decades.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

More evidence for an ancient Grand Canyon

A new Caltech study suggests the Grand Canyon was formed over 70 million years ago, contradicting conventional models of its creation. The research uses a novel method to analyze ancient rocks and provides crucial insights into the canyon's incision.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Prenatal exposure to testosterone leads to verbal aggressive behavior

A new study finds that men and women with smaller finger ratios self-reported higher levels of verbal aggression. The research suggests that prenatal testosterone may play a role in the development of verbal aggression, providing new insights for therapists and communication scientists.

SourceInternational Communication Association·JournalJournal of Communication·DateNov 29, 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.

Body language, not facial expressions, broadcasts what's happening to us

Study finds that people can't accurately judge emotions from facial expressions alone but can recognize them through body language. The researchers tested this with dozens of real-life intense images and found that participants were unable to tell apart positive and negative faces.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Black hole upsets galaxy models

Astronomers have discovered a black hole with 17 billion solar masses in the heart of a small galaxy, NGC 1277. This massive object challenges current models of galaxy evolution and could be the largest known black hole of its kind.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2012

4 PNNL scientists elected AAAS fellows

Four Pacific Northwest National Laboratory scientists, Nigel Browning, Allison Campbell, Anthony Peurrung, and Douglas Ray, have been elected as AAAS fellows. They were recognized for their contributions to electron microscopy, thin film synthesis, radiation detection, and national security programs.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateNov 29, 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.

University of Tennessee engineering professor looks to whirligig beetle for bio-inspired robots

A team of researchers led by Professor Mingjun Zhang discovered the secret behind the whirligig beetle's high propulsive efficiency, which inspired the development of energy-efficient propulsion mechanisms for swimming vehicles and robots. The key to the beetle's efficiency lies in its unique leg functions, alternative patterns of leg ...

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 29, 2012

Insects beware: The sea anemone is coming

Scientists have discovered several toxins in sea anemones that could be used as new generation of insecticides. These toxins disable ion channels, potentially leading to the development of pain and cardiac disorder treatments.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 29, 2012

Traffic cops of the immune system

Research reveals IkBNS promotes formation of Foxp3, key feature of regulatory T cells, and influences NFkB family of transcription factors. Manipulating IkBNS could lead to therapeutic breakthroughs for autoimmune diseases and inflammation.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalImmunity·DateNov 29, 2012

St. Joseph's researchers identify gene involved in lung tumor growth

Lung cancer researchers at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center identified a gene involved in non-small cell lung cancer tumor growth, leading to potential new treatments that inhibit tumor growth. The study found that the Fn14 gene is elevated in NSCLC tumors and promotes migration and invasion.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateNov 29, 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.

4 from University of Cincinnati named AAAS Fellows

Four University of Cincinnati faculty members, including President Santa Ono and professors Bruce Ault, Prabir Bhattacharya, and Alvaro Puga, have been named AAAS Fellows for their contributions to science and research. The university now has 24 faculty members who are AAAS Fellows.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateNov 29, 2012

Homicide spreads like infectious disease

Researchers applied infectious disease control principles to track 2,366 homicides in Newark, NJ, finding patterns that evolved over time. The study identified areas with no homicide clusters, suggesting community resistance factors that can be targeted to reduce violence.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateNov 29, 2012

Can life emerge on planets around cooling stars?

New research suggests that planets orbiting white or brown dwarfs are unlikely to support life due to the cooling and shrinking of their habitable zones. The study's findings indicate that such planets would have had to undergo a 'sterilization phase' in the past, making them dead for hosting life.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAstrobiology·DateNov 29, 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.

Sources of E. coli are not always what they seem

USDA scientists identify urban runoff as a significant source of E. coli bacteria in California's middle Santa Ana River Watershed. The study found that pathogens are more often carried into waterways via urban runoff than animal production facilities, highlighting the need for improved water quality management.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateNov 29, 2012

Greener storage for green energy

A team of Harvard engineers and chemists are working on a one-year, $600,000 grant from ARPA-E to develop a new type of storage battery that uses eco-friendly small organic molecules. The technology aims to make stationary energy storage cost-effective, enabling wind and solar power to displace fossil fuels more widely.

SourceHarvard University·DateNov 29, 2012

University of Minnesota honored with 7 2012 AAAS Fellows

Seven University of Minnesota faculty members have been named AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking research and innovative efforts in science. They were recognized in four different sections, including geology, physics, pharmaceutical sciences, and biological sciences.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 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.

Molecular root of 'exhausted' T cells in chronic viral infection

A study by researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine reveals how T-cell exhaustion occurs in chronic viral infections, with implications for novel therapies. The team found that two distinct classes of virus-specific CD8+ T cells work together to keep the infection in check, but their long-term pressure depletes progenitor pools.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateNov 29, 2012

Scientists describe the genetic signature of a vital set of neurons

Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center have identified two genes, Hoxa5 and Hoxc5, that establish the neuronal circuits required for breathing. The discovery could advance treatments for spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases like ALS.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 29, 2012

Study shows increase in negative messages about Muslims in the media

A new study by a University of North Carolina sociologist found that organizations spreading negative messages about Muslims have gained traction in the media, stoking public fears and anti-Muslim sentiment. The research tracked over 50,000 TV transcripts and newspaper articles from 2001 to 2008, revealing a significant rise in negativ...

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateNov 29, 2012

Brief interventions can help college students return to a healthy lifestyle

A new study from the University of Missouri found that brief interventions, as short as 30 minutes, can significantly improve exercise habits in college students. Participants who received personalized feedback and set health goals reported increased physical activity compared to those who did not receive the intervention.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateNov 29, 2012

Young surgeons face special concerns with operating room distractions

A study by Oregon State University researchers found that young surgical residents made major mistakes nearly half the time during simulated gall bladder removals due to distractions in the operating room. The analysis showed that young surgeons, particularly those in the afternoon, struggled with interruptions and conversations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateNov 29, 2012

7 University of Tennessee faculty named AAAS Fellows

Seven University of Tennessee professors have been named AAAS fellows, recognized for their contributions to discovery and education. The new fellows include experts in physics, nuclear security, polymer chemistry, microbiology, anthropology, and information sciences.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·DateNov 29, 2012

2 Berkeley Lab scientists named AAAS Fellows

Susan Celniker, a leading expert in genomic analysis of Drosophila, and Wim Leemans, a world leader in laser plasma acceleration, have been named AAAS Fellows for their outstanding contributions to science. They were recognized by their peers for their pioneering work in genomics, genetics, and laser-plasma particle beam research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateNov 29, 2012