Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 18, 2012


Chronic fatigue syndrome is not linked to suspect viruses

A multi-site study of 293 patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and 146 matched controls found no evidence of XMRV or pMLV infections. The researchers tested for the presence of these viruses using molecular, culture, and serological methods, but none were detected in CFS samples.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalmBio·DateSep 18, 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.

Oral bacteria may signal pancreatic cancer risk

A study found that high antibody levels for Porphyromonas gingivalis were associated with a two-fold risk of pancreatic cancer, while high levels of antibodies for commensal oral bacteria were linked to a 45-percent lower risk. The study strengthens the suggestion that oral bacteria may be indicators of pancreatic cancer risk.

SourceBrown University·JournalGut·DateSep 18, 2012

Women speak less when they're outnumbered

Research shows women participate less than their proportion in groups, but are empowered when decisions are made unanimously. Consensus-building approaches can bring valuable insights and reduce inequality.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateSep 18, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

JoVE establishes Librarian Advisory Board

The Journal of Visualized Experiments has established a Librarian Advisory Board to foster collaboration between academia and hospitals. The board aims to shape the JoVE platform's content and distribution strategy.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateSep 18, 2012

Engineering a better hip implant

A study by University of Iowa researchers found that morbidly obese patients experience higher dislocation rates due to increased thigh girth, which creates hip instability. The team suggests surgeons modify procedures and consider new implant designs to minimize this risk.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateSep 18, 2012

New tool gives structural strength to 3-D printed works

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a program that automatically imparts strength to objects created using 3-D printing. The tool identifies problematic areas and applies solutions such as increasing thickness or adding struts, resulting in significant cost and weight savings.

SourcePurdue University·DateSep 18, 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.

Bariatric surgery substantially reduces the risk of diabetes

A significant reduction in the risk of developing diabetes was observed in individuals who underwent bariatric surgery compared to those receiving traditional care. The Swedish Obese Subjects study found that bariatric surgery can reduce the risk of diabetes by over 80% among obese patients.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 18, 2012

RUB researchers clarify catalysis mechanism of cell growth protein Ras

Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum use infrared spectroscopy and computer simulations to study the Ras protein's role in cell growth. They found that Ras accelerates the cleavage of GTP by putting a phosphate chain under tension, which slows down cell growth.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2012

CEO incentives should be more strategic

A study by Michigan State University scholars suggests that CEOs who have three times as much prospective wealth as current wealth are more willing to take risks. Companies can influence CEO risk-taking behavior by issuing equity pay strategically, rather than relying on predetermined quantities.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateSep 18, 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.

Viruses not to blame for chronic fatigue syndrome after all

Researchers tested blood samples from 300 people for the presence of XMRV and pMLV genes, eliminating potential contamination that led to earlier false positives. No correlation between these viruses and chronic fatigue syndrome was found, refuting previous speculation.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateSep 18, 2012

Disability caused by traumatic brain injury in children may persist and stop improving after 2 years

A recent study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma found that children who suffered moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries may still experience substantial functional disabilities and reduced quality of life two years after the injury. The authors suggest that a plateau is reached in recovery beyond this period.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateSep 18, 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.

Substance-use disorders linked to increased risk of death for veterans with PTSD

A new study by the University of Michigan Health System and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System found a significant link between substance-use disorders and mortality in veterans with PTSD. Younger veterans, including those from Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, showed a stronger association between substance-use disorders and death.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateSep 18, 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.

Where body fat is stored may determine the likelihood of obese persons developing Type 2 diabetes

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that obese individuals with visceral fat are at a higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. In contrast, those with excess abdominal subcutaneous fat were not at greater risk. The study, which sampled over 700 obese adults, used imaging methods to determin...

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 2012

Scholarship program to train students in cybersecurity

The National Science Foundation awards a $2.3 million scholarship program at Kansas State University to train students in cybersecurity, as the nation faces growing cyber threats. The program aims to develop experts capable of handling cybersecurity challenges and safeguard critical infrastructure.

SourceKansas State University·DateSep 18, 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.

Sea surface temperatures reach record highs on Northeast continental shelf

Sea surface temperatures reached record highs on the Northeast continental shelf in 2012, exceeding 10.5 degrees C, affecting cod distribution and marine life. The annual spring plankton bloom was intense, starting earlier and lasting longer than average, with implications for species spawning at specific times of the year.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·DateSep 18, 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.

Nanoparticles detect biochemistry of inflammation

Researchers have developed a degradable polymer nanoparticle that detects biologically relevant concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, allowing for the non-invasive detection of inflammation. This method enables targeted drug delivery to diseased tissue, holding promise for treating cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 18, 2012

Precision motion tracking -- thousands of cells at a time

Researchers developed a novel microscopy technique that captures precise motion paths in three dimensions, tracking over 24,000 rapidly moving cells. The technique reveals previously unknown statistical pathways for human male gamete cells, showing complex twists and turns in their movements.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 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.

Do you want to know another role of ribonucleotide reductase M2?

The study found that RRM2 overexpression is positively correlated with invasive properties of CRC cells. Silencing RRM2 inhibited hyperplasia and invasiveness, indicating its role in CRC progression. Additionally, RRM2 depletion increased UV sensitivity, suggesting a facilitating factor in DNA damage repair.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 2012

Protection for humans on Mars

The European Space Agency (ESA) funded a study to test the shielding properties of Moon and Mars regolith against cosmic radiation. The GSI facility in Germany analyzed how well the stone slabs protect against radiation and produced neutrons when radiated.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateSep 18, 2012

Discovery of reprogramming signature may help further stem cell-based regenerative medicine research

Researchers at Salk Institute discover a unique molecular signature in induced pluripotent stem cells, consisting of nine genes that govern epigenetic changes. This finding could help overcome hurdles to using induced stem cells in regenerative medicine and provide a new understanding of their safety profile.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 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.

Rating HPV biomarkers in head, neck cancers

A study found that detecting specific HPV biomarkers, such as E6/E7 antibodies, in combination with tumor characteristics can help identify patients with a better prognosis. This approach may lead to more targeted treatment for head and neck cancers.

SourceBrown University·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 18, 2012

Reynolds Foundation awards ASU $8.21 million for business journalism

Arizona State University has been awarded two grants totaling $8.21 million by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation to enhance its business journalism programs. The foundation's support will help the university continue to operate the Reynolds National Center for Business Journalism and establish a permanent endowment for visiting profess...

SourceArizona State University·DateSep 18, 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.

New findings on protein misfolding

Researchers have identified 21 proteins that interact with ataxin-1, which can enhance or prevent its misfolding and toxicity. The study found that proteins with a specific structure called 'coiled-coil-domain' promote aggregation and toxic effects.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 18, 2012

Higher levels of BPA in children and teens associated with obesity

A nationally representative sample of nearly 3,000 children and adolescents found those with higher urinary bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations were more likely to be obese. The study suggests BPA exposure may contribute to obesity in humans, particularly among white children and adolescents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 2012

Longer exercise provides added benefit to children's health

A study found that 20-40 minutes of daily exercise reduces the risk of diabetes and body fat in children, with longer periods providing greater benefits. Children who exercised for 40 minutes had a 22% reduction in insulin resistance compared to those who exercised for 20 minutes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 2012

Statins are unlikely to prevent blood clots

A large analysis of over 100,000 participants found that statins have a very small effect on preventing venous thromboembolic events. The study suggests that high-dose and low-dose statins have no effect on blood clots.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 18, 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.

App lets you monitor lung health using only a smartphone

A new tool allows people to monitor their lung function at home or on the go by blowing into their smartphones. The app, SpiroSmart, uses a phone's microphone to analyze sound wave frequencies and detect lung problems with accuracy within 5 percent of commercial devices.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateSep 18, 2012

Government can play important role in obesity epidemic

A government-regulated approach could effectively measure to prevent obesity by addressing excess calorie consumption through portion size control. The proposal aims to encourage food companies to voluntarily alter products or marketing to reduce health risks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 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.

Lack of sleep affects bone health and bone marrow activity

Researchers found dramatic imbalances in bone apposition and reabsorption, reduced marrow fat, and increased platelet counts in sleep-deprived rats. These findings suggest potential medical implications for humans, including poor bone repair and increased risk of osteoporosis.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateSep 18, 2012

NASA sees Hurricane Lane punched in the eye

Hurricane Lane's eye has become cloud-filled, resembling being punched in the eye, due to powerful thunderstorms surrounding it. Cooler waters and increased wind shear are forecast to weaken the storm further, leading to its eventual dissipation by Wednesday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 18, 2012

Tasered youth fare as well as adults, new research says

A new study from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center researchers found no significant differences in injury rates or types of injuries between adolescents and adults who were tased by law enforcement officers. The study, which reviewed 2,026 Taser uses, found most injuries to be mild and superficial.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPediatric Emergency Care·DateSep 18, 2012

New tools help nursing homes track and prevent deadly infections

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America and CDC released new tools to track deadly healthcare-associated infections in nursing homes. Updated infection definitions provide uniform criteria for tracking HAIs, including norovirus gastroenteritis and Clostridium difficile infections.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 18, 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.

New NIST screening method identifies 1,200 candidate refrigerants to combat global warming

Researchers at NIST have developed a new computational method to identify promising refrigerant fluids with low global warming potential. The new method identified over 1,200 candidates from 56,000 compounds, including fluorinated olefins that react rapidly with atmospheric compounds.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateSep 18, 2012

Who is entitled to social welfare?

A Danish researcher found that a universal psychological instinct triggers decisions on deservingness of welfare recipients, regardless of cultural differences. This instinct dates back to the Stone Age, when sharing food was crucial for survival, and influences modern attitudes towards help and support.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateSep 18, 2012

Hopes that new substance will induce cancer cell suicide

Researchers tested APR-246 on 22 patients with advanced blood or prostate cancer, finding indications that the substance restored p53 gene function and triggered cancer cell apoptosis. In two patients, tumor regression was observed, suggesting potential clinical benefits.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 18, 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.

Quasars: Mileposts marking the universe's expansion

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have found a way to map the spread and structure of the universe using the light of quasars. By analyzing patterns of light variation over time, they were able to calculate the relative size of the universe when the light was emitted, compared to today.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 18, 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.

Pacifiers may have emotional consequences for boys

Researchers found that heavy pacifier use in young children is linked to poor emotional maturity and lower perspective-taking scores. The study suggests that girls may be less affected due to societal expectations of emotional sophistication. Parents are advised to limit pacifier use to promote healthy emotional development.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalBasic and Applied Social Psychology·DateSep 18, 2012

How much product information do consumers want?

A study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that people vary widely on the level of detail required for understanding a product. Explanation fiends require more details to feel informed, while explanation foes feel confident with superficial explanations. Understanding what consumers want is crucial for marketers.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 18, 2012

First Pathfinder Awards announced tackling rare and orphan diseases

The Wellcome Trust has announced its first Pathfinder Awards to support research into rare and orphan diseases, including Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation (NBIA) and Homocystinuria. The awards aim to facilitate collaboration between academia and industry to develop innovative treatments for these debilitating conditions.

SourceWellcome Trust·DateSep 18, 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.