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Science News for January 15, 2013


Study documents that some children lose autism diagnosis

A NIH-funded study confirmed that some children who were accurately diagnosed with autism in early childhood can lose the symptoms and diagnosis as they grow older. The research team documented a small group of school-age children and young adults who no longer exhibit signs of the disorder, now comparable to their mainstream peers.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJan 15, 2013

War was central to Europe's first civilization, contrary to popular belief

The study found that the Minoan civilization, known for its complex urban societies, had strong martial traditions and warrior culture. The research challenges the common view of Minoans as a peace-loving people, instead revealing war as a defining characteristic of their society.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalThe Annual of the British School at Athens·DateJan 15, 2013

Studies provide new insights into brain-behavior relationships

Researchers investigate patterns of dysgraphia in participants with primary progressive aphasia, comparing them to those with stroke-related dysgraphia. They also explore nonverbal semantic processing in individuals with semantic aphasia and dementia, shedding light on brain-behavior relationships.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBehavioural Neurology·DateJan 15, 2013

Borderline personality disorder: The "perfect storm" of emotion dysregulation

Research finds heightened activity in brain circuits for negative emotions and reduced activation of emotion-suppressing circuits in borderline personality disorder, with reduced frontal brain activity unique to the condition. The study suggests improved emotion regulation skills may be normalized after successful treatment.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 15, 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.

Patients with EGFR exon 20 insertions have poorer prognosis

Researchers found cancers with EGFR exon 20 insertions have similar clinical characteristics to those with common mutations but a poorer prognosis. Median survival was 16 months for these patients, shorter than those with other mutations.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJan 15, 2013

Plumber and spray painter high-risk occupations for asthma

A study of 13,000 adults in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, and Estonia found that plumbers and spray painters were at high risk of developing new-onset asthma due to workplace exposure. The study identified high-risk substances and occupations, highlighting the need for primary prevention measures.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Annals of Occupational Hygiene·DateJan 15, 2013

Facebook beats books - and faces - in memory test

Researchers found that Facebook status updates were significantly more memorable than sentences from books and faces. The study suggests that the casual, personal style of digital communication resonates with our hardwired memory abilities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMemory & Cognition·DateJan 15, 2013

Diabetic fruit flies support buzz about dietary sugar dangers

Researchers used fruit flies to model diet-induced type 2 diabetes, revealing a specific biochemical system linked to the condition. Blocking this pathway prevents some of the disease's negative effects on the heart, providing new avenues for therapy.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 15, 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.

Novel approach to track migration of arctic-breeding avian species

Scientists study snow bunting populations in North America, revealing east-west migratory divide and mixed-data approach for tracking connectivity. The research supports the need for a versatile mix of data to assess habitat changes and climate change effects on breeding success.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalAnimal Migration·DateJan 15, 2013

Designer bacteria may lead to better vaccines

Researchers have developed 61 new strains of genetically engineered bacteria that can boost the immune response to vaccines. The bacteria are designed to express endotoxin molecules in different configurations, creating a range of potential adjuvants for vaccine design.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2013

Comparable patterns of failure between SBRT, lobectomy or pneumonectomy for stage I NSCLC

Researchers compared the patterns of failure between stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), lobectomy, and pneumonectomy for patients with stage I non-small-cell lung cancer. The results show comparable patterns of failure, but highlight the challenges in making such comparisons due to differences in patient and tumor-related factors.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJan 15, 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.

New research gives insight into graphene grain boundaries

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the behavior of graphene grain boundaries, which scatter electrons and hinder electronic performance. The study suggests that controlling grain boundary orientation could be key to improving graphene's electronic properties.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 15, 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.

Western University researchers identify new genetic mutation for ALS

Researchers have identified a new genetic mutation in the ARHGEF28 gene that is present in all cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The protein arising from this gene appears to play a critical role in the disease, and understanding its function could lead to targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis·DateJan 15, 2013

Neon lights up exploding stars

Researchers from the University of York and Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya have made significant discoveries about novae, explosive events driven by nuclear processes. The study's findings improve our understanding of key nuclear reactions and the final abundance of radioactive isotopes involved in these explosions.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 15, 2013

NREL launches interactive tool for developing a cleaner energy future

The U.S. Department of Energy's NREL has created the Buildings, Industry, Transportation, Electricity, and Transportation Scenarios (BITES) tool to help users understand the complex issues surrounding cleaner energy. Users can adjust inputs to explore 'what-if' scenarios and compare outcomes to baseline cases.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJan 15, 2013

How does family life influence consumer response to television advertising?

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research finds that creative and skilled viewers can overturn and personalize commercial advertising meanings for family benefit. Researchers placed cameras in suburban homes to study viewer behavior during TV ad breaks, revealing the impact of family interaction on advertising response.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 15, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tamoxifen ameliorates symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy

A study published in American Journal of Pathology found that tamoxifen can counteract some pathologic features in a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Tamoxifen improved muscle force, diaphragm and cardiac structure, reducing fibrosis by up to 50%.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJan 15, 2013

The muscle response of footballers depends on their position on the field

A study of 78 Spanish footballers found variations in muscle contraction and recovery times depending on their field position. The rectus femoris muscle, which extends the knee, shows different characteristics for central defenders, midfielders, and goalkeepers.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Electromyography and Kinesiology·DateJan 15, 2013

A quantum leap in gene therapy of Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers have successfully treated Duchenne muscular dystrophy in dogs using gene therapy, reducing inflammation and improving muscle strength. The study, published in Molecular Therapy, provides a quantum leap forward in fighting this devastating disease, paving the way for future human clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJan 15, 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.

New research shows uncertain benefits after grade 2

A recent study found that Success for All instruction had no positive or negative effect on reading achievement in grades 3 through 5, contrasting with earlier findings in kindergarten through grade 2. This suggests that alternative strategies may be needed to promote stronger impacts for older students.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateJan 15, 2013

For sports fans, the story -- not the victor -- makes the difference in enjoyment

A new study published in the Journal of Media Psychology found that sports fans enjoy watching athletic events with high drama and suspense, regardless of the outcome. The researchers discovered that viewers root for heroic athletes and against unfavorable ones, yet report enjoying the game despite the winner.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Media Psychology Theories Methods and Applications·DateJan 15, 2013

Chronic disease research awarded funding

The African Partnership for Chronic Disease Research will collect detailed health and disease information from over 24,000 individuals across 10 countries. This will provide a unique framework for researchers in these countries and enable the development of long-term strategies for disease control and management.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·DateJan 15, 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.

Global warming may have severe consequences for rare Haleakalā silverswords

Climate change is projected to place the endemic Haleakalā silversword species at risk of extinction due to increasing water stress and lethal conditions. The plant's recovery from early threats has stalled, with annual population growth rates linked to precipitation patterns and warmer-drier climate trends.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 15, 2013

Chemistry resolves toxic concerns about carbon nanotubes

Researchers at University College London have developed a method to render carbon nanotubes safe for use in biomedical applications. By chemically modifying and shortening the nanotubes, they can eliminate their toxic properties and make them suitable for direct transport into cells.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJan 15, 2013

Ornamental fish industry faces increasing problems with antibiotic resistance

A new study found high levels of antibiotic resistance in ornamental fish, with some species showing up to 77% resistance to certain antibiotics. The risk to humans is generally minor, but transmission from tropical fish has been documented and poses a concern for those with compromised immune systems.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Fish Diseases·DateJan 15, 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.

NIH launches collaborative effort to find biomarkers for Parkinson's

The NIH has launched a collaborative effort to find biomarkers for Parkinson's disease, which could help predict, diagnose, or monitor the condition. Researchers are exploring various approaches, including non-invasive imaging and protein analysis, to identify potential biomarkers that could improve treatment outcomes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateJan 15, 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.

Major step toward an Alzheimer's vaccine

Researchers at Université Laval have identified a molecule that stimulates the activity of the brain's immune cells, which could lead to a treatment and vaccine for Alzheimer's disease. Weekly injections of MPL eliminated up to 80% of senile plaques in mice with Alzheimer's symptoms, improving cognitive function.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2013

Virtual heart sheds new light on heart defect

Researchers developed a virtual heart model to investigate atrial fibrillation, revealing electrical heterogeneity and fibre structure as key factors in the condition's initiation. The study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms underlying AF, paving the way for potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalInterface Focus·DateJan 15, 2013

Invading species can extinguish native plants despite recent reports

A study found that invasive plant invasions can create 'extinction debts' in native plant species, leading to slow extinctions but delayed actual extinction events. Native plants are often relegated to marginal habitats unsuitable to their non-native competitors.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Are consumers with fewer friends more likely to take financial risks?

A study found that consumers feeling socially isolated are more likely to pursue riskier financial opportunities. This effect is mediated by the perceived instrumentality of money, as excluded consumers seek to value money as an alternative means to secure their desired outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 15, 2013

In search of the big questions: Conserving the European Alps

A workshop with 15 European colleagues identified 50 most important questions for conserving biodiversity in the Alps. These questions focus on nature, management, and people, highlighting the importance of transdisciplinary work in addressing environmental problems.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 15, 2013

No panaceas for Mexico's violent drug war, but prohibition has failed

A recent study from Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy has found that Mexico's violent drug cartels have failed due to prohibition, and that shifting the government's approach from a war mindset to crime fighting is crucial. The report recommends strengthening civil service, law enforcement, and judicial systems to pre...

SourceRice University·DateJan 15, 2013

Device tosses out unusable PV wafers

NREL's Silicon Photovoltaic Wafer Screening System uses thermal stress to identify weak wafers that are prone to breaking during manufacturing. The system can be retrofitted into assembly lines and has already shown potential for reducing production costs and increasing efficiency.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJan 15, 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.

Exon skipping to restore gene expression is promising therapeutic strategy for muscular dystrophy

Researchers developed a new gene therapy approach called exon skipping, which bypasses disease-causing mutations in genes to restore normal expression and protein production. This strategy has shown promising results in treating muscular dystrophy, with improved muscle force and increased body weight and muscle mass.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJan 15, 2013

EGFR mutation not prognostic factor in non-small cell lung cancer

A recent study by IASLC found that EGFR mutations do not serve as a prognostic factor in NSCLC patients. Instead, smoking status appears to be the most significant predictor of overall survival. The researchers also discovered that administering EGFR TKI can prolong survival after disease recurrence.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJan 15, 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.

UCI research turns the corner on autism

The UCI Center for Autism Research & Treatment is launching an innovative drug discovery effort to develop effective pharmaceutical therapy for core deficits of autism. Researchers are using a synergistic approach, integrating multiple disciplines and compounds to target neural pathways altered in the disorder.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateJan 15, 2013

Lack of protein Sp2 disrupts neuron creation in brain

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that the lack of Sp2 protein disrupts neural stem cell division and leads to a decline in neurons in the developing and postnatal brain. This discovery could have implications for understanding neurodevelopmental diseases and regenerative medicine.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalDevelopment·DateJan 15, 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.

Researchers identify genetic mutation for rare cancer

Researchers at Michigan Medicine have discovered a genetic anomaly that could improve diagnosis and treatment of rare solitary fibrous tumors. The NAB2-STAT6 gene fusion was found in every tumor sample analyzed, providing a potential target for therapies.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 15, 2013

Facebook posts not easily forgotten

A new study found that Facebook posts are remarkably memorable, outperforming both human faces and sentences from books in terms of retention. The researchers suggest that this is due to the casual, gossipy language used in microblogs, which taps into people's basic language capacities.

SourceSpringer·JournalMemory & Cognition·DateJan 15, 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 housing market: Consumers struggle to get the price right

A new study found that consumers systematically underestimate the selling price of others' items and overestimate their own willingness to pay. This bias can lead to reduced satisfaction in transactions and economic losses for both buyers and sellers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 15, 2013

Childhood trauma leaves its mark on the brain

EPFL researchers find correlation between childhood psychological trauma and neurological changes similar to those found in violent humans. The study demonstrates that traumatic experiences in pre-adolescent rats lead to altered brain function, including reduced orbitofrontal cortex activation and increased aggression.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJan 15, 2013

NASA satellites see Cyclone Narelle torn apart

Cyclone Narelle's intensity has steadily weakened as it moved southward towards Western Australia. TRMM satellite data showed falling cloud heights and weaker rainfall, indicating a significant decrease in the storm's power.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 15, 2013

New path discovered for future generation of glucose-measuring biosensors

Researchers at CIC bioGUNE have developed a new pathway to create more reliable glucose-measuring biosensors that can detect glucose in various fluids, including urine. The discovery challenges the long-held paradigm of protein binding mechanisms and offers a promising avenue for improving diabetes diagnosis.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 15, 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.