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Science News for October 8, 2012


UC research finds small signs lead to big frustrations

A study by University of Cincinnati Marketing Professor James Kellaris found that inadequate signage can lead to loss of business and tax revenue. Women experience signage communication failure more than men, with about half the population surveyed in 2011 having driven past businesses due to signage issues.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateOct 8, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Poorer lung health leads to age-related changes in brain function

Research suggests that maintaining healthy lungs may be crucial for retaining problem-solving and processing speed in older adults. The study found no link between poorer lung health and loss of stored knowledge or memory, but showed a correlation between reduced pulmonary function and steeper declines in cognitive abilities.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 8, 2012

Computational model IDs potential pathways to improve plant oil production

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory used a computational model to identify key metabolic pathways that favor the production of either oils or proteins in plants. The research focused on rapeseed and found 149 reactions responsive to changes in oil/protein tradeoff, highlighting potential targets for genetic manipulation.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateOct 8, 2012

Maternal depression affects language development in babies

A new study found that maternal depression treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors accelerates babies' language development, while untreated depression prolongs this period. Researchers measured changes in heart rate and eye movement to sounds and video images of native and non-native languages.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 2012

Putting a block on neuropathic pain before it starts

Using liposomes packed with local anesthetic, researchers at Boston Children's Hospital delayed the rise of neuropathic pain by two days and a month in animal models. The method could potentially allow doctors to stop the cascade of events leading to chronic pain.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 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.

A DNA-made trap may explain amyloidosis aggravation

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) release DNA-made traps that break down amyloid fibrils into smaller toxic pieces. This process is linked to the aggravation of amyloidosis, a group of clinical syndromes characterized by deposits of amyloid fibrils throughout the body.

SourcePublicase International·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 8, 2012

Sinusitis: Leaving a bad taste in your mouth

Researchers found that T2R38 is expressed in upper respiratory tract cells and activated by bacteria, correlating with increased susceptibility to sinus infections. Genetic variation in the T2R38 gene contributes to individual differences in respiratory infection risk.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 8, 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.

Gene variant linked with reduced lung cancer risk

A variant in the NFKB1 gene has been associated with a 44% reduced risk of lung cancer, according to a new analysis of 378 patients and 450 healthy controls. The study suggests that inflammation may play a role in lung cancer development.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateOct 8, 2012

Learning from past flu epidemics to model outbreaks as they happen

Researchers developed a new model that incorporates detailed household transmission data to better predict flu outbreaks. The study found that infection rates were higher than previously thought, revealing the importance of including untested individuals in outbreak analysis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 8, 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.

New link between high-fat 'Western' diet and atherosclerosis identified

Researchers found that high-saturated fat diets increase endothelial lipase levels, associated with atherosclerosis, while omega-3 polyunsaturated fats lower these levels. This discovery may help explain why certain diabetes drugs raise heart risks and provides a new link between diet and cardiovascular disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateOct 8, 2012

Digital tabletop system with views on demand

A new digital tabletop system, PiVOT, allows users to view shared content while each individual receives a personalized view, with multiple views possible at the same location without interfering with others. The system supports various applications and has been implemented with a sample prototype evaluated for its effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateOct 8, 2012

DRI scientist co-authors study outlining vast differences in polar ocean microbial communities

A comprehensive comparison of marine microbial diversity at the poles reveals vast differences between Southern and Arctic oceans. The study highlights the importance of researching Earth's polar regions in the face of climate change, and identifies further research needs to understand sea ice, seasonal shifts, and freshwater inputs.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

Eberli recognized with inaugural Johannes Walther Medal for outstanding efforts in sedimentology

Eberli's research on carbonate sediments and rocks has led to a revolutionary new model of platform development, revealing the internal architecture of Great Bahama Bank. The CSL Center for Carbonate Research he directs has made significant breakthroughs in understanding sedimentologic processes, aiding the petroleum industry.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateOct 8, 2012

Grant-winning PPPL scientists lead fusion to the edge

Researchers will develop computer code to model the complex conditions at the edge of fusion plasmas, which could help design and operate facilities for generating electricity from fusion. The validated model could guide developers of next-generation fusion facilities, including ITER.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateOct 8, 2012

Scientists identify genetic signatures for aggressive form of prostate cancer

Researchers identified genetic signatures that can predict the progression of castration-resistant prostate cancer, with patients having the signature living an average of 9.2 months compared to 21.6 months without the signature. These findings hold promise for improving patient outcomes and enabling better clinical trials.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 8, 2012

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new over-the-counter HIV test, OraQuick, is unlikely to significantly impact the fight against HIV due to its high cost and limited accessibility. Physicians recommend counseling patients about the use and limitations of home testing to make informed decisions.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 8, 2012

Catalytic converters like it hot

Researchers have discovered that the critical temperature for catalytic ignition depends on the material used and crystallographic orientation of metal granules. The findings suggest that a more efficient catalytic converter can be built by optimizing these factors, potentially reducing emissions and costs.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 8, 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.

Maths adds new weapon in fight against pandemics

Researchers at the University of Warwick have created a model to predict the impact of future pandemics in real-time. By analyzing statistical data, they found that infection rates were higher than previously thought and transmission probabilities decreased with increasing household size.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 8, 2012

School hearing tests: Are they as good as they sound?

A team of academics will compare screening programmes in some areas to establish the most effective way of spotting hearing loss in children aged four to six years old. The research aims to determine whether a nationwide approach would be successful and cost-effective.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateOct 8, 2012

Caffeine may block inflammation linked to mild cognitive impairment

A University of Illinois study found that caffeine reduces brain-based inflammation associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Caffeine-treated mice recovered their ability to form new memories faster than non-caffeine-treated mice, suggesting a possible therapeutic target for mild cognitive impairment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateOct 8, 2012

Scientists develop 'barcode' blood test for aggressive prostate cancer

Researchers have designed a blood test that can detect aggressive prostate cancers by analyzing the pattern of gene activity in blood cells. The test, which reads genetic changes like a barcode, can accurately identify patients with advanced prostate cancers and predict their survival time.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 8, 2012

$2.7M LSUHSC grant to reduce alcohol use & improve HIV outcomes

A team of scientists will enroll 250 people living with HIV/AIDS in a clinical study to compare an intervention with a Holistic Health Recovery Program adapted for Alcohol Use Disorders, aiming to enhance patients' awareness and modify behaviors that promote HIV disease progression.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateOct 8, 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.

Super-microbes engineered to solve world environmental problems

The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) has successfully engineered microbes to produce biodegradable materials like polylactic acid, which can be used in various applications. Metabolic engineering enhances microbial performance to improve the production of desired chemicals and materials.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateOct 8, 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.

MRSA researchers identify new class of drug effective against superbug

A new class of treatment has been identified against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a 'superbug' responsible for difficult-to-treat illnesses. The compound, developed from an anti-cancer agent, shows promise in treating MRSA-infected mice and has the potential to combat drug-resistant tuberculosis.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateOct 8, 2012

Making computer data storage cheaper and easier

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a new technology that aims to make terabyte storage cheaper and easier. They use similar optical data storage technology as commercially available Blu-ray discs but write data in dozens of layers instead of two or four, resulting in lower manufacturing costs.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 8, 2012

Study finds nearly 50% of retail firewood infested with insects

A new study found that nearly half of all retail firewood sold in the US West is infested with live insects. The research highlights the risks of untreated firewood transporting pests and pathogens to uninfested areas. Heat-treating firewood before sale could help mitigate these risks.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateOct 8, 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.

Health Canada's fast-tracked drug approvals can put public at risk

A recent study from York University found that drugs approved through Health Canada's accelerated review process are more likely to be withdrawn or earn serious safety warnings than those undergoing standard reviews. This is due to the faster review process potentially missing serious safety issues.

SourceYork University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateOct 8, 2012

JCI early table of contents for October 8, 2012

Researchers found that common polymorphisms in the T2R38 gene were correlated with the incidence of bacterial sinus infections, demonstrating a genetic link to individual differences in respiratory infection susceptibility. In companion pieces, studies on PSD-95 expression and progranulin deficiency shed light on potential therapeutic ...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 8, 2012

River Thames invaded with foreign species

The River Thames has been invaded with over 96 non-native freshwater species, according to a recent study published in Biological Invasions. The research suggests that globalisation and shipping activity have facilitated these invasions, resulting in significant biodiversity loss and ecosystem service degradation.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBiological Invasions·DateOct 8, 2012

Can eating tomatoes lower the risk of stroke?

A new study published in Neurology suggests that a diet rich in tomatoes and lycopene may lower the risk of stroke. The research involved 1,031 Finnish men aged 46-65, who were followed for an average of 12 years, with those having higher levels of lycopene showing a 55% reduced risk of stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 8, 2012

2010 Korea bomb 'tests' probably false alarms, says study

A new study by seismologists at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory suggests that North Korea's alleged 2010 nuclear tests were probably false alarms. The researchers found no evidence of seismic waves consistent with the detonations, citing the region's dense network of seismic stations.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience & Global Security·DateOct 8, 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.

Prenatal mercury exposure may be associated with risk of ADHD-related behaviors

A study of children in Massachusetts found that low-level prenatal mercury exposure is associated with a higher risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related behaviors. Conversely, fish consumption during pregnancy appears to be protective, particularly for impulsive/hyperactive behaviors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateOct 8, 2012

Fresh blood not better, clinical trial shows

A randomized clinical trial of 377 premature babies found that receiving fresher blood did not improve clinical outcomes, including major organ injury, mortality, and infection. The study, led by Dr. Dean Fergusson, used the gold standard of medical science and challenged existing beliefs about fresh blood being better.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateOct 8, 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.

Cause of annoyance, concern, anxiety, and even anger:

A study found that computerized surveillance in the home causes significant changes in behavior to control privacy intrusion. Participants adjusted their daily practices to maintain a tolerable level of surveillance, but unexpected events could disrupt these adaptations.

SourceAalto University·DateOct 8, 2012

Optimal therapy sought for patients who cannot defecate effectively

Dysynergic defecation is a condition where the brain and gut communicate improperly, leading to constipation and abdominal pain. Researchers have developed a biofeedback system that helps patients relearn normal behavior and restore communication between the brain and gut, showing an 85% success rate.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateOct 8, 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.

Low-level mercury exposure in pregnant women connected to ADHD risk in children

A study found that low-level prenatal mercury exposure increases the risk of ADHD-related behaviors in children, while moderate fish consumption during pregnancy reduces this risk. Researchers recommend pregnant women consider both benefits and risks of eating fish while pregnant.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateOct 8, 2012

Curb kids' screen time to stave off major health and developmental problems

Children spend an average of five screens at home by age 10 and six hours a day watching screens by adolescence. Prolonged screen time is linked to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, attention span reduction, and psychosocial problems like Facebook depression and impaired empathy.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateOct 8, 2012

Language learning makes the brain grow

A three-month intensive language study led to significant brain structure changes in language learners compared to non-language students. The hippocampus and cerebral cortex areas expanded in size, correlating with improved language skills, highlighting the cognitive benefits of language learning.

SourceLund University·JournalNeuroImage·DateOct 8, 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.

Demographic miracle in the deserts

Some desert plant species adapt well to climate change, benefiting from fluctuating weather conditions. This is contrary to predictions by climate models, which forecast unfavorable effects on ecosystems. Researchers found that these plants have a unique physiology allowing them to thrive in arid regions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateOct 8, 2012

Nearly half of children with autism wander or 'bolt' from safe places

A new study found that nearly half of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) attempt to elope at least once after age 4, with 53% going missing long enough to cause concern. The study also reveals that elopement behavior is often goal-oriented and intent-driven, with children seeking to go somewhere or do something.

SourceKennedy Krieger Institute·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 8, 2012

Power in the palm of your hands

The Digits sensor allows users to control devices remotely using hand gestures, eliminating the need for external hardware. Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding human hand movements and developing a system that can accurately track and interpret finger joints, wrist orientation, and other key points.

SourceNewcastle University·DateOct 8, 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.

A welcome predictability

Researchers have developed an adaptor that makes genetic engineering of microbial components more predictable, converting regulators of translation into regulators of transcription in Escherichia coli. This allows for the construction of increasingly complex functions in microorganisms, enabling safer and more efficient production of e...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 8, 2012