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Science News for August 6, 2013


Scientists discover key to easing aquaculture's reliance on wild-caught fish

Researchers at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science have successfully developed a completely vegetarian diet that supports fast-growing marine carnivores like cobia and gilthead sea bream. This breakthrough could significantly ease aquaculture's reliance on wild-caught fish, making the industry more sustainable.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalLipids·DateAug 6, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Localized wind power blowing more near homes, farms & factories

A new report reveals that 68% of US wind turbines installed between 2003-2012 were for distributed wind projects, generating 812 megawatts of power. This represents a significant shift towards local energy production, with large turbines being used in more distributed wind projects.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateAug 6, 2013

Sleep deprivation linked to junk food cravings

A new UC Berkeley study reveals that sleep-deprived brains prefer unhealthy snacks and junk foods over whole grains and leafy greens. The researchers found impaired activity in the frontal lobe but increased activity in deeper brain centers that respond to rewards.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2013

Tidy desk or messy desk? Each has its benefits

Research finds that messy desks stimulate creative thinking and inspire breaking free from tradition, leading to fresh insights. Tidy desks, on the other hand, promote healthy behaviors like donating to charity and choosing a healthier snack option.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

A layer of tiny grains can slow sound waves

Researchers at MIT created a layer of tiny grains that can funnel acoustic waves, potentially leading to smaller electronic devices and new types of blast-shielding material. The discovery could also enable the development of microbalances capable of measuring tiny changes in weight.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 6, 2013

LA Tumor Registry at LSUHSC receives $1.3 million from NCI

The Louisiana Tumor Registry has been awarded a contract to continue its work as a SEER Program-designated cancer registry, collecting cancer incidence and survival data from 28% of the US population. The funding will support cancer research, including prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship studies.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateAug 6, 2013

Breast cancer surgery linked to swollen arm syndrome

A QUT study found that extensive breast cancer surgery is linked to an increased risk of developing arm lymphoedema. The study revealed one in five women may be diagnosed with the condition, which can cause anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Cancer patients want more shared-decision making about their treatment

A new study reveals that certain patient groups feel unmet needs for greater involvement in cancer treatment decisions. Younger patients and those with specific rare types of cancer want more input in the decision-making process. The research emphasizes the importance of shared-decision making policies to address these disparities.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateAug 6, 2013

Ohio State researchers restore immune function in spinal injured mice

Researchers at Ohio State University have restored immune function in spinal injured mice, providing a potential explanation for why people with spinal cord injuries become susceptible to infections. By targeting specific hormones involved in autonomic dysreflexia, the study offers new therapeutic targets for reversing central immune d...

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·DateAug 6, 2013

Inca children were drugged with coca and alcohol before sacrifice

Scientists analyzed 500-year-old Inca mummies to uncover the truth behind the 'capacocha' ritual, revealing that children consumed coca and alcohol before sacrifice. The findings provide new insights into the ancient practice, which was used to sedate children before their death.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Marine life spawns sooner as oceans warm

A three-year international study found that marine species are shifting their geographic distribution towards cooler regions due to warming oceans. This has led to changes in breeding patterns, life cycles, and potentially significant repercussions for human services dependent on these ecosystems.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 6, 2013

$20,000 Arizona Community Foundation grant helps fund TGen education

The Translational Genomics Research Institute received a $20,000 grant from the Arizona Community Foundation to support its TGen2School program, promoting scientific literacy and preparing a better-prepared bioscience workforce. The initiative includes professional development for teachers and provision of science kits.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateAug 6, 2013
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 trap and lure captures bed bugs more effectively

A new bed bug trap captures twice as many insects as current traps by incorporating a pitfall trap design, a chemical lure, and a sugar-and-yeast mixture producing carbon dioxide. The trap's taller design makes it harder for bed bugs to escape.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateAug 6, 2013

Quantum communication controlled by resonance in 'artificial atoms'

Researchers have created a method to control quantum bits using resonances in artificial atoms, enabling exponential parallel computation and solving complex tasks. The technique combines classical solid-state physics with atomic physics techniques, allowing for controlled electron spin orientation without measurement.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 6, 2013

Study identifies factors associated with suicide risk among military personnel

A study of current and former military personnel found that mental disorders and male sex are independently associated with increased suicide risk, but deployment or combat experiences were not linked to an increased risk. The findings suggest that early recognition and treatment of mental health concerns can help mitigate suicide risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

NREL report firms up land-use requirements of solar

A new NREL report provides detailed land-use data for solar power plants, showing that a large fixed tilt photovoltaic plant requires an average of 2.8 acres for solar panels to generate 1 gigawatt-hour per year. The study found that small single-axis PV systems require on average 2.9 acres per annual gigawatt-hour, while concentrating...

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateAug 6, 2013

Personality may affect a new mother's decision to breastfeed

A study of 602 new mothers found that extroverted and emotionally stable individuals are more likely to breastfeed and continue breastfeeding. Mothers who were introverted or anxious faced challenges with breastfeeding, including feelings of self-consciousness and difficulty accessing support services.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Size matters in nanocrystals' ability to adsorb/release gases

Researchers at Vanderbilt University developed a new method to measure nanocrystals' adsorption and release of hydrogen and other gases. The technique revealed that the size of nanocrystals has a stronger effect on the rate of gas adsorption and release than previously expected, with smaller particles absorbing more gas faster.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 6, 2013

New UNH research: Online predators not distinctively dangerous sex offenders

A new University of New Hampshire study finds that online sex offenders operate similarly to offline ones, targeting teens through internet and cell phone communications. The research highlights the need for teaching children to resist sexual advances from adults, whether met online or in-person.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateAug 6, 2013

What color is your night light? It may affect your mood

A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that hamsters exposed to red light had significantly less evidence of depressive-like symptoms compared to those exposed to blue or white light. The researchers believe this may have important implications for humans, particularly those working night shifts.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Commonly used catheter's safety tied to patient population

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 studies reveals that hospitalized patients with PICCs are just as likely to develop bloodstream infections as those with other types of CVCs. The study highlights the need for adherence to proven prevention strategies in non-critical care settings.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateAug 6, 2013

Insect 'soup' serving up rapid biodiversity monitoring

Researchers develop fast and accurate method to monitor biodiversity changes using crushed insect 'soup', comparable to traditional labor-intensive approaches. This breakthrough enables rapid detection of environmental shifts and endangered species, informing policy and conservation decisions.

SourceGriffith University·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 6, 2013

One tree's architecture reveals secrets of a forest, study finds

Researchers have discovered that trees across species exhibit remarkably similar branching patterns, allowing scientists to infer a tree's function regardless of its shape or size. The study confirms a theory developed by UA ecology professor Brian Enquist and has implications for models used to assess forest ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Study questions nature's ability to 'self-correct' climate change

A new study from Northern Arizona University found that ecosystems have a limited capacity to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide, and soil microorganisms play a crucial role in determining carbon storage. The study suggests that widely accepted carbon cycle models overestimate the impact of ecosystems on absorbing carbon.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalNew Phytologist·DateAug 6, 2013

UT Arlington psychologists say 'group narcissism' linked to negative attitudes toward immigrants

A new study from UT Arlington found that individuals with high levels of 'group narcissism' and strong national in-group identification are more likely to hold negative attitudes toward undocumented Latino immigrants. This aligns with the researchers' hypothesis that perceived threats to one's group can contribute to such attitudes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalHispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences·DateAug 6, 2013

Medfly and other fruit flies entrenched in California, study concludes

A new study reveals that at least five species of tropical fruit flies, including the infamous Medfly, are permanently established in California and spreading despite decades-long eradication efforts. The study's findings have significant implications for California agriculture and international trading partners.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Observation in the ER can reduce CT scans in kids

A study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that observing children with minor blunt head trauma in the emergency department before ordering a CT scan can significantly reduce the need for CT scans. The study found that every hour of observation time decreased CT rates by approximately 70% on average.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 6, 2013

Vaccine stirs immune activity against advanced, hard-to-treat leukemia

A new vaccine has shown promise in boosting the immune system's ability to attack leukemia cells in post-transplant patients. The personalized tumor vaccine, which includes the patient's own irradiated leukemia cells combined with an immune stimulant, has been shown to induce a strong and selective immune response.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 6, 2013

Let's have lunch! -- teachers eating with their students provides nutrition education opportunities

Swedish researchers found three types of teachers who interacted with children during meals: sociable, educating, and evasive. To realize the potential of nutrition education, teachers must be aware of their actions. The study provides a useful tool for clarifying best practices for teacher-student interactions during mealtimes.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateAug 6, 2013

Treating PTSD and alcohol abuse together doesn't increase drinking, Penn study finds

A new study published in JAMA found that treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol dependence simultaneously does not lead to increased drinking, but rather improves treatment outcomes. Prolonged exposure therapy combined with naltrexone reduced cravings and drinking days, even after treatment stopped.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateAug 6, 2013

Unexpected synergy between two cancer-linked proteins offers hope for personalized cancer therapy

Scientists have discovered a new biomarker that predicts how well cancer patients respond to cancer drugs. The biomarker, linked to PRL-3 protein levels, identifies patients who are most likely to benefit from existing anti-cancer treatments, reducing healthcare costs and potentially saving lives.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Community pharmacies are effective locations for rapid HIV testing

Researchers found that community-based pharmacies can be effective locations for offering rapid HIV testing and connecting those who test positive with medical care quickly. The study used five community-based pharmacies in the Bronx and Manhattan to test hard-to-reach individuals, resulting in six positive cases and improved access to...

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalAIDS Patient Care and STDs·DateAug 6, 2013

Women in urban areas show high rates of postpartum depression, study finds

A new Canadian study found that women living in large urban areas are at a significantly higher risk of postpartum depression after five to 14 months of giving birth. The researchers suggest differences in stress, social support and history of depression may contribute to this risk.

SourceWomen's College Hospital·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 6, 2013

Dartmouth-led team discovers how plants avoid sunburn

A Dartmouth-led team has identified a group of stress-related proteins in plants that help them avoid sunburn in intense light. These findings could lead to the development of crops with increased protection from bright light and enhanced photosynthesis rates.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Walking to work cuts risk of diabetes and high blood pressure

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that walking to work cuts the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure by 40% compared to driving. People who walk or cycle to work are also less likely to be overweight, with cyclists being half as likely to have diabetes as drivers.

SourceImperial College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 6, 2013

Sericin can alleviate diabetic hippocampal injury

A study by Dr. Chen's research group reveals that sericin can alleviate diabetic hippocampal damage by improving disorders in the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor 1 axis, decreasing blood glucose levels and apoptosis of hippocampal neurons in diabetic rats.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 6, 2013

Soil carbon 'blowing in the wind'

A new study reveals that Australian soils are losing significant amounts of carbon to wind erosion, with an estimated 1.6 million tonnes lost annually. This loss affects not only agricultural productivity but also the country's carbon accounts and climate change projections.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 6, 2013

Timber rattlesnakes indirectly benefit human health

Research by the University of Maryland found that timber rattlesnakes remove 2,500-4,500 ticks from Eastern forest sites annually, potentially reducing Lyme disease incidence. The study highlights the importance of conserving all species, including those often disliked.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Diets of pregnant women contain harmful, hidden toxins

A recent study found that pregnant Hispanic women in California consume high levels of toxins such as methylmercury from tuna and PCBs from farmed salmon, which can cause birth defects and developmental delays. The researchers also highlighted the dangers of tap water and caffeine consumption during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNutrition Journal·DateAug 6, 2013

New Moore Foundation grant advances ASU microscopy imaging research initiative

Arizona State University researchers have received a $1.6 million grant to develop advanced microscopy methods that can capture molecular-scale phenomena in living systems. The technique, called plasmonic resonance, allows for the imaging of proteins and other molecules within cells with enhanced contrast and temporal resolution.

SourceArizona State University·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Battery design gets boost from aligned carbon nanotubes

Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a new flexible nano-scaffold using aligned carbon nanotubes to improve the stability of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The design shows promise in increasing battery capacity and reducing pulverization, a significant challenge in using silicon as an electrode material.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 6, 2013

Protein changes are discovered that control whether a gene functions

A Penn State-led research team found that histone protein changes can control whether a gene functions, with the potential to maintain genetic expression and prevent disease. The study's findings have significant implications for the study of diseases like cancer and understanding cellular behavior.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2013

The sun's magnetic field is about to flip

Scientists predict the sun's magnetic field will reverse in three to four months, affecting space weather and potentially cosmic rays. This change marks the midpoint of Solar Cycle 24, with half of 'solar max' behind and half yet to come.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 6, 2013

New federal guidelines for managing occupational exposures to HIV

The new guidelines recommend immediate use of a combination of three or more antiretroviral drugs after any occupational exposure to HIV, eliminating the previous recommendation to assess individual exposure risk. Exposed healthcare personnel should complete a full four-week regimen and undergo follow-up testing and monitoring.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Illinois scientists put cancer-fighting power back into frozen broccoli

Researchers at University of Illinois find way to boost health benefits of frozen broccoli by sprinkling it with daikon radish, a process that preserves sulforaphane's cancer-fighting properties even when cooked. The discovery aims to make frozen broccoli as nutritious as fresh.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 6, 2013

Minimally invasive stents show some advantage over bypass in opening blocked leg arteries

A small study found that patients who received minimally invasive stents had a 31% risk of needing another procedure within 24 months, compared to 54% for those who received bypass surgery. The researchers hope to confirm these findings with further study and develop guidelines for determining when a stent is likely to be best.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Vascular Surgery·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Large Area Picosecond Photodetectors push timing envelope

Researchers have developed large area picosecond photodetectors that can measure particle speed with sub-picosecond resolution and spatial precision measured in micrometers. The detectors use Atomic Layer Deposition technique and have potential applications in high-energy physics, medical imaging, and homeland security.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateAug 6, 2013

Altering organic molecules' interaction with light

Researchers at MIT have discovered a new platform that enables dramatic manipulation of organic molecules' emission by suspending them on top of a carefully designed planar slab with a periodic array of holes. This platform has important implications for applications such as bio-imaging, bio-molecular detection and the development of o...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2013

Weight loss surgery alters fatty liver disease genes

Researchers found that weight loss surgery can reverse the symptoms of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by altering DNA methylation and gene expression. This study provides insight into the mechanisms behind bariatric surgery's benefits beyond weight loss.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

Women in large urban areas at higher risk of postpartum depression

A Canadian study found that women living in large urban areas have a higher risk of postpartum depression. The study analyzed data from 6421 women and found that urban residents had almost 10% reporting postpartum depression compared to 6% in rural areas.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 6, 2013

The dark side of entrepreneurship

Researchers found that entrepreneurs exhibit higher levels of rule-breaking behavior during adolescence, such as cheating and truancy. However, this behavior tends to dissipate by adulthood, with most entrepreneurs showing no significant difference in anti-social tendencies compared to non-entrepreneurs.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of Vocational Behavior·DateAug 6, 2013
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.

More opioid dependence treatment needed

A new report from Simon Fraser University researcher calls for expanded heroin and opioid medical treatment to address rising overdose deaths. The study highlights the gap in treatment availability in Canada and the US and recommends eliminating restrictions on methadone prescribing and reducing financial barriers to treatment.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 6, 2013

Why tumors become drug-resistant

Researchers found that AXL receptor pairs with EGFR to make tumors resistant to ErbB inhibitors. Combining drugs targeting AXL and EGFR receptors could offer a better way to fight tumors, according to the study.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 6, 2013

Emotional behavior of adults could be triggered in the womb

Researchers at Cardiff University have linked hormonal imbalance in the womb to anxiety and possible vulnerability to poor mental health in adults. Changes in placental function have been implicated in emotional behavior and brain gene expression related to this type of behavior.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2013

New technique allows closer study of how radiation damages materials

A new technique allows researchers to observe magnesium's atomic-scale changes when exposed to radiation, providing insights into how radiation weakens materials. This discovery may lead to the development of new radiation-tolerant materials for deep space exploration.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2013

UCSB study reveals that overthinking can be detrimental to human performance

A new UCSB study published in the Journal of Neuroscience reveals that paying full attention and trying hard can impede performance. The study found that disrupting explicit memory resources, which are associated with conscious thought, can harm implicit memory processes, leading to poorer performance outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNeuroscience·DateAug 6, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.