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Science News for October 30, 2012


Sizing up biomass from space

Researchers developed a new randomization protocol to accurately estimate total biomass in forests. The GLAS approach shows promise in standardizing global forest biomass inventory and improving spatial and temporal coverage.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCarbon Balance and Management·DateOct 30, 2012

'Cause my hair is curly

Researchers have identified the underlying mutation responsible for the Selkirk Rex cat breed's curly hair. The dominant SADRE gene is distinct from other breeds and allows for genetic diversity.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalJournal of Heredity·DateOct 30, 2012

Study suggests new way to prevent recurrent ear infections

Researchers found that eliminating bacteria's DNA and boosting human beta-defensin-3 can kill NTHI bacteria, a major cause of middle ear infections. The study suggests a new treatment approach to target biofilms formed by the bacteria.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalInnate Immunity·DateOct 30, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Breakfast sandwich is a time bomb in a bun

A study by the Heart and Stroke Foundation found that consuming just one high-fat breakfast sandwich can decrease blood vessel function by 15-20% in healthy university students. This temporary effect highlights the potential for a single high-fat meal to have long-term consequences on heart health.

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada·DateOct 30, 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.

Empathy represses analytic thought, and vice versa

A study led by Anthony Jack from Case Western Reserve University shows that the brain fires up one network for empathy and suppresses another for analysis, limiting their simultaneous use. This finding suggests established theories about two competing networks in the brain must be revised.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNeuroImage·DateOct 30, 2012

Ducks flock to Extremadura thanks to its ricefields

Researchers found a significant increase in migratory duck species in the region's reservoirs, which are linked to rice cultivation. The study suggests that these manmade wetlands play a crucial role in supporting bird populations during winter, providing a safe haven for ducks fleeing from declining natural habitats.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBird Conservation International·DateOct 30, 2012

Animals learn to fine-tune their sniffs

Researchers found that animals can adjust their sniffs to target specific odors in complex blends. The study showed that rats learned to detect highly absorbent odors more quickly than less absorbent ones, highlighting the importance of physical properties and sniffing techniques in olfaction.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateOct 30, 2012

Everyone in the pool! Water workouts just as good as on land

A new study published in the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress found that exercising in water has the same aerobic benefits as exercising on land, but with less strain on joints. This promising alternative can be especially beneficial for people who struggle to exercise on land due to weight or mobility issues.

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada·DateOct 30, 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.

Monkeys put off sex by bystanders

A study of long-tailed macaques found that males and females inhibit the sexual behavior of group members when bystanders are present, highlighting the importance of competition in shaping their dynamics. The researchers also discovered that sneaky copulations occur due to the exploitation of peripheral positions within the group.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 30, 2012

Even physically active women sit too much

A new Northwestern University study reveals that even physically active women spend an average of nine hours a day sitting. The research suggests that incorporating light activity throughout the day can help mitigate negative health consequences associated with prolonged sitting.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateOct 30, 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.

Why urban dwellers should care about climate change

The Climate and Urban Systems Partnership aims to educate Pittsburghers, New Yorkers, and other urbanites about how climate change will affect them. The partnership is developing city-specific educational programs about climate change in urban environments, including hands-on activities that connect with local organizations.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 30, 2012

Honeybees harbor antibiotic-resistance genes

Researchers found eight different tetracycline resistance genes among US honeybees, but only two or three in honeybees from countries with banned antibiotic use. This suggests that the use of antibiotics may have weakened honeybee wellbeing and reduced their ability to fight off other diseases.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateOct 30, 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.

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.

High levels of vitamin D in plasma protects against bladder cancer

A large study published in the Journal of National Cancer Institute has identified a genetic route by which vitamin D may prevent bladder cancer. High levels of 25(OH)D3 in plasma were found to be associated with lower risk of bladder cancer, particularly in patients with more aggressive cancers.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 30, 2012

American consumers overvalue US-produced apparel, MU study finds

A study by University of Missouri researchers found that American consumers place a high value on apparel produced entirely in the US, with a 42% increase in perceived value compared to similar products made overseas. This trend could be damaging to American apparel manufacturing businesses and the overall economy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClothing and Textiles Research Journal·DateOct 30, 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.

UC research brings us step closer to rollable, foldable e-Devices

Researchers at University of Cincinnati develop a paper-thin plastic screen that can be folded or rolled up repeatedly, eliminating pixel borders. This breakthrough technology uses ambient light to reduce power consumption and enables magazine-quality color displays in foldable e-devices.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2012

Ozone's impact on soybean yield: Reducing future losses

Ground-level ozone concentrations are already high enough to damage crop production, reducing seed yields by roughly half a bushel per acre for each additional part per billion. Researchers found that potential increases in background ozone could lead to yield losses of 9-19 percent by 2030.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateOct 30, 2012

The hunt for electron holes

A recent study reveals that two different types of electron holes contribute to the photocurrent in hematite-based photoanodes. The discovery was made using soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy under simulated sunlight and in the dark, providing new insights into the electronic structure of hematite.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateOct 30, 2012

How does the brain measure time?

Researchers at the University of Minnesota's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research found a specific region of the brain, lateral intraparietal area (LIP), that measures time consistently even without external cues. LIP activity decreased at a constant rate between timed movements, suggesting an internal hourglass mechanism.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 30, 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.

Finding triggers of birth defects in an embryo heart

Scientists have developed a technology to visualize how circulating blood affects the developing heart, potentially uncovering triggers for heart defects. The study maps shear stress on the endothelial cells lining the growing heart, which has been linked to gene expression changes and defect formation.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateOct 30, 2012

Risk of cardiac arrest depends on where you live

A study by Dr. Paul Dorian found that the risk of cardiac arrest depends on where you live, with neighborhoods having higher rates experiencing three to five times more cases than those with lower rates. Wealth, education, and social inclusion are important factors in determining cardiac arrest risk, but only explain part of the puzzle.

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada·DateOct 30, 2012

How the brain controls our habits

A new study from MIT neuroscientists has found that the brain's prefrontal cortex has a small region responsible for controlling which habits are switched on at a given time. The researchers used optogenetics to inhibit this region, allowing them to break and form new habits in rats.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2012

Common food preservative may slow, even stop tumor growth

Researchers found that nisin slows or stops tumor growth by interrupting the cell cycle in cancer cells but not healthy ones. The study's findings suggest that nisin triggers cell death through the activation of protein CHAC1, which is a new role for this protein.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCancer Medicine·DateOct 30, 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.

Bullying has long-term health consequences

A study by the Crime Victims' Institute at Sam Houston State University found that childhood bullying can lead to long-term health consequences, including general and mental health issues, behavioral problems, eating disorders, smoking, alcohol use, and homelessness. The study recommends investing in victim services and effective preve...

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateOct 30, 2012

Higher education levels in women change relationship patterns

Research shows that as more women have higher education levels, couples are forming with a woman having lower studies than her partner. This trend is observed globally and may lead to increased symmetry and equality in relationships.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateOct 30, 2012

Off to the future with a new soccer robot

Researchers from the University of Bonn have developed a new humanoid robot called NimbRo-OP, which is designed to facilitate research on humanoids. The robot's open-source design plan and source code aim to enable other researchers to use it as a basis for their work.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·DateOct 30, 2012

Many cancer survivors face health-related quality of life issues

A recent study found that over one-third of cancer survivors in the US experience physical and mental health problems after treatment. The study identified groups at higher risk for long-term quality-of-life issues, with those with certain types of cancer facing significant challenges.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateOct 30, 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.

At 6 months, development of children with autism like those without

A new study reveals that children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) develop similarly to their peers at 6 months of age, but diverge later on. The research, conducted over three years, examined the development of 235 children with and without ASD from 6 to 36 months.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateOct 30, 2012

New pediatric heart failure guidelines a first in Canada

The new guidelines aim to provide a framework for early recognition and treatment of pediatric heart failure, which often goes unrecognized until it's too late. The guidelines recommend specialized care, including echocardiography by a pediatric specialist, and evidence-based treatments such as diuretics and inotropic drugs.

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada·DateOct 30, 2012

Hunt for superbugs in Australian animals

A national research effort is underway to monitor antibiotic resistance in Australian livestock and companion animals. The study aims to provide a clearer picture of the state of Australian livestock and inform mitigation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateOct 30, 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.

NASA satellites capture Hurricane Sandy's massive size

Hurricane Sandy was a massive storm that covered 1.8 million square miles from the Mid-Atlantic to Canada and New England. NASA satellites captured its size, with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph and minimum central pressure rising to 952 millibars.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 30, 2012

Unique protein bond enables learning and memory

Researchers discovered a unique protein bond that enables NMDA receptors to stabilize on the cell surface, increasing communication between brain cells. The scaffolding protein SAP102 binds with GluN2B at two sites, facilitating receptor turnover and preventing debilitating diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 30, 2012

Women with lupus have a higher risk for preeclampsia

Research finds women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a two-fold increase in risk of preeclampsia. DMARD use during pregnancy may also pose a slight risk, with the severity of autoimmune disease contributing to the increased risk.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateOct 30, 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.

Drug offers new pain management therapy for diabetics

A 12-week clinical study found that nabilone significantly reduces pain and improves sleep in patients with diabetic neuropathy, with few side effects. The medication, a synthetic cannabinoid, has been used to treat nausea in chemotherapy patients and is now being considered for treating neuropathy pain in diabetics.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPain·DateOct 30, 2012

Indoor workplace smoking bans garner strong support from Hoosiers

A recent Indiana survey found nearly 75% of Hoosiers in favor of a statewide or community indoor workplace smoking ban. The study suggests that policy makers have the backing of their constituents to pass such legislation. Support was consistent across most groups, with strong backing from non-smokers and those unaware of health risks.

SourceIndiana University·DateOct 30, 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.

E. coli adapts to colonize plants

Researchers discovered that E. coli strains can form biofilms more readily on plant surfaces, using plant-derived sugars for survival. The findings provide insights into the evolution of E. coli populations and offer targets for preventing dangerous strains from contaminating vegetables.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateOct 30, 2012

Homelessness, high mobility threaten children's achievement

A longitudinal study of over 26,000 Minneapolis Public Schools students found that homelessness and frequent moving led to persistently lower reading and math achievement scores. Despite this, individual children's academic resilience varied significantly, with 45% scoring within the average range or better.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateOct 30, 2012