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Science News for February 18, 2013


Study suggests reduced lung function in infancy associated with wheeze later

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that reduced lung function in infancy is associated with wheezing beyond childhood. The study, which followed participants from birth to age 18, suggests that early airway function and later exposures such as smoking may contribute to the development of obstructive respiratory diseases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 18, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Feb. 19, 2013

Acupuncture showed statistically significant improvements in symptoms and medication use for patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Increasing CT screening thresholds could decrease false positive results but may delay cancer diagnosis. The American College of Physicians has released a new tip sheet with these findings.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 18, 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.

Caffeine linked to low birth weight babies

Research published in BMC Medicine found that caffeine from all sources reduces birth weight and increases pregnancy length by 5 hours per day. Caffeine intake from coffee was associated with an even longer gestational length, increasing risk of small for gestational age at birth by almost a third

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2013

Reduced sea ice disturbs balance of greenhouse gases

A new study by Lund University researchers reveals that reduced Arctic sea ice is causing a significant disturbance to the balance of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This change has far-reaching consequences for the global climate, as plants and oceans absorb half of the carbon dioxide released into the air through human activities.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 18, 2013

'Simplified' brain lets the iCub robot learn language

Researchers developed an artificial brain system that enables robots to learn and understand new sentences containing a new grammatical structure. This technology has the potential to contribute to understanding linguistic malfunctions in Parkinson's disease and improve robots' ability to acquire language knowledge.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New projections of 'uneven' global sea-level rise

A new study projects that global sea-level rise will not be uniform, with certain regions experiencing higher rates of rise. The team used sophisticated computer modeling to show how ice loss from glaciers and ice sheets will impact regional sea levels, particularly in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 18, 2013

Stem cell-based bioartificial tissues and organs

Researchers are developing stem cell-based transplant technology to recreate complex tissues and organs, with successful trials in trachea, oesophagus and lung transplantation. Experimental attempts also show promise for brain regeneration and treatment of acute refractory lung failure.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateFeb 18, 2013

Study examines effect of entrepreneurial rhetoric on microlending

A recent study examined the effect of entrepreneurial rhetoric on microlending investment and found that successful entrepreneurs use language to shape investors' perceptions. By avoiding accomplishments-based rhetoric, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of securing funding by eliciting a 'warm-glow' response from lenders.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·DateFeb 18, 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.

Solar sponge' soaks up CO₂ emissions

CSIRO researchers develop a 'solar sponge' that captures CO2 using natural sunlight, then releases it instantly when exposed to UV light. This breakthrough presents an energy-efficient method for recycling CO2 emissions, reducing the need for coal-based energy and conserving up to 30% of power plant production capacity.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 18, 2013

Raw meat diet may not be enough for cats (or tigers)

Researchers found that raw meat diets met many nutrient requirements for cats, but there were gaps in linoleic acid and arachidonic acid levels. Pet owners may need to supplement with other nutrients, including fat and essential fatty acids. The study highlights the importance of proper nutrition for domestic and exotic felines.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateFeb 18, 2013

Some cheeses exceed contaminant levels recommended by EU

A study found that some organic cheeses in Spain have higher concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) than recommended by the EU. The presence of these toxins has been linked to health risks such as cancer, obesity, and diabetes.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateFeb 18, 2013
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.

New insight into dogs fear responses to noise

A study by the University of Bristol has found that almost half of dog owners reported their pet showing fear signs when exposed to loud noises, but only a quarter considered their pet fearful. The research highlights the importance of early life experience and exposure to specific loud noises in developing fear responses.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalApplied Animal Behaviour Science·DateFeb 18, 2013

Could a computer on the police beat prevent violence?

Researchers analyzed Boston data and found correlations between alcohol availability, drug possession, and violent crimes. The study aims to help policy makers and police focus resources on areas with higher risk factors for violence.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 18, 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.

Pathway controlling cell growth revealed

A Melbourne-based research team has discovered a genetic defect that can halt cell growth and force cells into a death-evading survival state. The finding reveals an important mechanism controlling rapidly-dividing cells, which may lead to the development of new treatments for diseases including cancer.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 18, 2013

New supercomputer to aid genomics research

The Institute for Genomic Biology has received a highly parallel shared memory supercomputer named Ember, bolstering its computing services. The system will enable larger projects in genomics and transcriptomics research, improving genome and transcriptome assemblies.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateFeb 18, 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.

The criteria for weight-loss surgery need to be changed

A new study shows that weight-loss surgery can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease in patients with a body mass index (BMI) below 40. Researchers at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, monitored 104 patients who underwent surgery despite their BMI being considered

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalDiabetes Care·DateFeb 18, 2013

Shedding new light on infant brain development

A new study by Columbia University researchers found that the infant brain does not control its blood flow in the same way as the adult brain. With increasing age, the immature brain gradually developed its ability to increase local blood flow and generate a large blood-flow response.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2013

Not just cars, but living organisms need antifreeze to survive

Researchers have discovered that antifreeze proteins in plants and animals prevent frost damage by coating and protecting ice crystals. The study, published in PNAS, used microfluidic devices to observe the binding of AFPs to ice, revealing a strong and irreversible interaction that prevents ice growth even without protein presence.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2013

Study: p38beta MAPK not critical to brain inflammation

Researchers at the University of Kentucky found that p38beta MAPK has no effect on brain-cell cultures or mouse brains in terms of inflammation and neurotoxicity. This suggests that development of p38-inhibitor drugs may focus on targeting p38alpha instead of retaining p38beta inhibitory activity.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2013

Blood is thicker than water -- and blood plasma is, too

Researchers at Saarland University and the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that blood plasma is a non-Newtonian fluid that forms threads and exhibits viscoelastic properties, influencing blood flow into narrow capillaries. This study may improve computer simulations of vascular pathological processes.

SourceSaarland University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 18, 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.

A solution to sinusitis from the sea

Researchers isolated an enzyme called NucB from the marine bacterium Bacillus licheniformis, which can break down biofilms in sinusitis. The enzyme cleared over half of biofilm organisms tested, offering a potential solution to chronic sinusitis.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2013

Lake-effect snow sometimes needs mountains

A new study reveals that mountains can play a crucial role in triggering lake-effect snowstorms over large bodies of water. The research found that three key mountain-related factors were necessary to produce the October 2010 storm that hit metropolitan Salt Lake City and the Wasatch Range.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalMonthly Weather Review·DateFeb 18, 2013

Cushion plants help other plants survive

New research shows cushion plants in harsh alpine environments support biodiversity by providing a protective habitat for less stress-tolerant species. These plant communities are crucial in extreme conditions, as they counteract the reduction in phylogenetic diversity.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEcology Letters·DateFeb 18, 2013

In fight against cancer, a closer look at nuclear blebbing

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a mathematical model that sheds light on the mechanisms causing bulges in cells' nuclear membranes. This study may provide potential therapies for related diseases by preventing bleb formation.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 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.

Sitting time associated with increased risk of chronic diseases

A study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found that sitting time was significantly associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases. The study, which included 63,048 middle-aged Australian males, showed a steady increase in risk as sitting time increased.

SourceKansas State University·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateFeb 18, 2013

Subordinate animals as guinea pigs

Researchers observed wild meerkat groups in the Kalahari Desert, where dominant females yield to lower-ranked individuals to cross roads, revealing a complex adaptation mechanism. This phenomenon may be an innate response, allowing animals to cope with novel threats and minimizing group risk.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2013

Nesting site protection 'key to save turtles from climate change'

A new study reveals that some turtle populations are among the least likely to recover from climate change impacts. Protecting key regional nesting beaches and areas suitable for future nesting is crucial to enhance marine turtles' resilience.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 18, 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.

Eye movements reveal reading impairments in schizophrenia

Researchers at McGill University found that people with schizophrenia exhibit impaired reading fluency due to context-dependent eye movements and processing of words. The study provides new insights into the impact of schizophrenia on cognitive functions and could lead to earlier interventions.

SourceMcGill University·DateFeb 18, 2013

Loyalty is trump

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum found that loyal customers play out their loyalty in price negotiations, gaining an extra 5% discount without issue. This study turned the perception of customer loyalty on its head, highlighting its negotiating power in stores across various sectors.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateFeb 18, 2013

Hunt for distant planets intensifies

A team of UChicago astronomers, led by Jacob Bean, is utilizing new methods to analyze the atmospheres of exoplanets, with a focus on distinguishing between gas giants and water worlds. The search for exoplanets has revealed an estimated 17 billion Earth-sized planets in the Milky Way galaxy, potentially harboring life-sustaining worlds.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateFeb 18, 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.

Excessive TV in childhood linked to long-term antisocial behaviour

A new University of Otago study followed over 1000 children and found that excessive TV viewing in childhood is associated with increased risks of antisocial behavior, including criminal conviction and aggressive personality traits, in adulthood. The study suggests reducing TV viewing could help reduce rates of antisocial behavior.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 18, 2013

History of stroke and coronary heart disease -- a fatal combination

A study of 26,389 coronary patients found that 17% had a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), associated with increased risk of heart attack and hemorrhagic stroke. Higher doses of anti-platelet or anti-coagulant therapy were linked to a high risk of bleeding complications.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 18, 2013

When selecting a child's doctor, families prefer grapevine over online ratings

A new poll from the University of Michigan found that only 25% of parents consider doctor rating websites very important in their search for a pediatrician. However, younger parents (under 30) are more likely to say online ratings are very important, with mothers being more likely than fathers. Despite this, nearly one-third of parents...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateFeb 18, 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.

Atherosclerosis -- Monocyte migrations

Researchers identify critical role of CCR1 and CCR5 receptors in monocyte recruitment to atherosclerotic lesions. The findings suggest that inhibiting these receptors may provide novel therapeutic strategies for treating atherosclerosis.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2013

New study on Hepatitis C drug treatment in vivo and in vitro

Researchers have discovered that daclatasvir, a direct acting antiviral agent, targets the HCV protein NS5A and also blocks viral secretion from infected cells. The study provides insight into the drug's modes of action and suggests a more accurate estimate of the HCV half-life.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2013

When it comes to genetic code, researchers prove optimum isn't always best

A team of researchers found that non-optimal codon usage slows translation of the genetic code into protein, allowing it to achieve its optimal structure. This discovery provides new insights into controlling the rates at which critically important proteins are synthesized and could lead to better understanding of cancers and diseases.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2013
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.

CWRU study examines family struggles with anger and forgiveness when relative is dying

A study by Case Western Reserve University researchers explores how family members cope with anger toward God during a loved one's death. The findings show that lower levels of religiosity and spiritual connection are associated with increased anger, while prayer and seeking forgiveness can be effective coping strategies.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Palliative Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2013

Gene linked to worse outcomes for melanoma

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London identified a gene linked to resistance in melanoma tumour cells. The gene TP63 was found to correlate significantly with a worse prognosis in melanoma patients.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2013

Lunar water findings challenge prevailing theory

Researchers detected water in lunar anorthosites, contradicting the popular moon-formation model that suggests the moon was formed from debris generated by a giant impact. The discovery indicates that the early moon was wet and that water may have played a key role in its development.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 18, 2013

Bone marrow cells used in bladder regeneration

Researchers at Northwestern University are using bone marrow cells to recreate bladder muscle, vasculature, and nerve tissue, potentially replacing traditional surgery. This approach aims to address complications associated with bowel-based augmentation cystoplasty, a common surgical option for bladder dysfunction.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 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.