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Science News for June 19, 2013


Researchers explain how neural stem cells create new and varied neurons

A study by researchers at the University of Oregon reveals a novel stem cell mechanism in fruit flies that may help explain how neurons form in humans. The research shows how a select group of stem cells can create progenitors that generate numerous subtypes of cells, increasing neural diversity.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature·DateJun 19, 2013

Stanley Osher delivers the John von Neumann Lecture

Stanley Osher, a professor at UCLA, is awarded the 2013 John von Neumann Lecture for his groundbreaking work on non-oscillatory methods, level set methods, and l1 and TVD methods. His research has numerous applications in engineering, physics, and image processing.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJun 19, 2013

New canary seed is ideal for gluten-free diets in celiac disease

Scientists have confirmed a new variety of canary seeds as gluten-free and ideal for people with celiac disease. The 'hairless' seeds lack tiny hairs that made them inedible for humans, providing more protein and nutrients than other common cereals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 19, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Validating maps of the brain's resting state

Researchers at Vanderbilt University used fMRI to map the brain's resting state network, confirming its relationship with anatomical structure. The study provides new insights into neural connectivity and its potential applications in diagnosing mental health disorders.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNeuron·DateJun 19, 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.

Detour ahead: Cities, farms reroute animals seeking cooler climes

Researchers found that the southeastern US region could experience heavier animal movements in response to a warming climate, with estimates up to 2.5 times higher than average species movement across North and South America. The study identified natural corridors and human-made barriers that will affect animal migration patterns.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEcology Letters·DateJun 19, 2013

Cheap, color, holographic video

Researchers at MIT's Media Lab have developed a new approach to generating holograms that could enable the creation of color holographic-video displays. The technique uses an optical chip, resembling a microscope slide, built for about $10, which can produce high-resolution video images up to 30 times per second.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 19, 2013

Sound waves precisely position nanowires

Using sound waves, researchers can create repeatable patterns of metallic nanomaterials onto substrates that are incompatible with conventional lithography methods. The technique allows for the patterning of nanowires with tunable spacing and density, enabling potential applications in various fields.

SourcePenn State·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 19, 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.

A battery made of wood?

Researchers at the University of Maryland have created a nanoscale battery using wood fibers that can last over 400 charging cycles, making it a promising alternative to traditional batteries.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 19, 2013

Brain re-training may improve memory, focus in schizophrenia

Researchers hope targeted mental workouts can sharpen memory and focus in adults with schizophrenia by taking advantage of brain's natural plasticity. The modules use a game-like approach to improve speed and accuracy of information processing.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJun 19, 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.

Unexpected behavior of well-known catalysts

Industrial palladium-copper catalysts change structure before use, affecting reaction catalysis. The discovery reveals potential environmental and economic benefits of alternative activation methods.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Catalysis·DateJun 19, 2013

The contribution of particulate matter to forest decline

Researchers from Bonn University found that particulate matter salt compounds can decrease the drought tolerance of trees, leading to forest decline. The study reveals a physical mechanism where deliquescent salts form wick-like structures that remove water from leaves, promoting dehydration.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJun 19, 2013

Biological fitness trumps other traits in mating game

A new study reveals that females tend to prefer traits linked to fitness, influencing mate choice and population divergence. This finding settles a long debate about magic traits and predicts their commonality in nature.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalEcology Letters·DateJun 19, 2013

1 in 4 stroke patients suffer PTSD

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that nearly 300,000 stroke/TIA survivors develop PTSD symptoms each year, with one in nine experiencing chronic symptoms. The study suggests that PTSD is an under-recognized problem among stroke patients, and that social support is a key protective factor against PTSD.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2013
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.

Are we pushing animals over the edge?

The study found that human population density is a significant threat to extinction, with a 3.3% increase in threatened mammals and birds over the next decade. Conservation efforts should consider human population density to mitigate biodiversity loss.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Ecology·DateJun 19, 2013

Current global food production trajectory won't meet 2050 needs

Current global crop yields are not increasing quickly enough to support estimated global needs in 2050, according to a University of Minnesota study. The analysis identifies focus areas for closing the gap, including targeting investments on arable lands and improving best management practices.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2013

HIV-derived antibacterial shows promise against drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers have developed HIV-derived antibacterial compounds that target and disrupt bacterial membranes, showing powerful activity against clinically resistant bacteria. These engineered cationic antimicrobial peptides (eCAPs) may also be applicable to treatment of other respiratory infections and biodefense applications.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 19, 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.

'Ugly' finding: Unattractive workers suffer more

A study led by Michigan State University found that unattractive workers are more likely to be belittled and bullied in the workplace. The researchers surveyed 114 workers at a healthcare facility and found that unattractive employees were treated harsher, even when controlling for other factors.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHuman Performance·DateJun 19, 2013

Researchers report first entanglement between light and an optical atomic coherence

Researchers have achieved entanglement between light and an optical atomic coherence composed of interacting atoms in two different states, paving the way for functional multi-node quantum networks. The state-insensitive trap allowed the researchers to generate photons at a rate of 5,000 per second, enabling deterministic entanglement.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 19, 2013

'Waterlust' whets appetite of Florida outdoor writers

Patrick Rynne's student-run project Waterlust brings together marine science, art, and sport through online film and photography. The project aims to inspire public interest in water-related topics, empowering scientists to communicate their work creatively.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateJun 19, 2013

Outlook is grim for mammals and birds as human population grows

New research from Ohio State University predicts that the growing human population will lead to an increase of 10.8% more threatened species by 2050. The study suggests that meaningful biodiversity conservation efforts must take into account the expanding human population footprint, which can exacerbate extinction threats.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHuman Ecology·DateJun 19, 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.

Laughing gas does not increase heart attacks

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found no link between nitrous oxide anesthesia and increased risk of heart attack. Despite concerns about the impact on homocysteine levels, the study showed that B vitamins did not influence heart attack risk in surgery patients.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAnesthesiology·DateJun 19, 2013

Carbon nanotube harpoon catches individual brain-cell signals

Neuroscientists have developed a carbon nanotube probe that captures individual brain-cell signals, improving upon metal and glass electrodes. The new probe allows for more precise recordings of electrical signals from single neurons, enabling better understanding of the computational complexity of the brain.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2013

Elsevier launches open access journal: GeoResJ

GeoResJ aims to publish top research in the entire earth science field with rapid publication and open access. Elsevier's new journal joins its existing earth and planetary science journals offering authors more choice for scope and access.

SourceElsevier·JournalGeoResJ·DateJun 19, 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.

Pearly perfection

Researchers suggest that the unique texture of developing pearls creates a ratchet-like effect, causing them to turn and accumulate nacre in a spherical build-up. This process results in the formation of perfectly spherical, highly prized pearls.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateJun 19, 2013

States vary widely on success rates for minorities in drug treatment programs

A University of Iowa study reveals significant disparities between minority and white clients in completing substance abuse treatment programs. Successful completion predicts greater likelihood of getting off drugs, abstinence from alcohol, and employment six and 12 months after treatment completion.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJun 19, 2013

Margaret Cheney to deliver the AWM-SIAM Sonia Kovalevsky Lecture

Margaret Cheney, a leading researcher in inverse problems and radar imaging, will deliver the AWM-SIAM Sonia Kovalevsky Lecture. Her work has developed solutions to longstanding problems in radar imaging using Microlocal Analysis, a method largely unknown to the radar community.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJun 19, 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.

New technology reduces, controls CT radiation exposure in children

A new technology has reduced overall radiation exposure from CT scans in children by 37 percent, according to a recent study. The software uses mathematical calculations to determine the lowest possible radiation dose for each patient, allowing radiologists to precisely control the amount of radiation based on patient size.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalRadiology·DateJun 19, 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.

Antioxidant shows promise in Parkinson's disease

Researchers have found that diapocynin, a synthetic antioxidant molecule, protects neurobehavioral function in mice with Parkinson's Disease symptoms. The treatment prevented expected deficits in motor coordination, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalNeuroscience Letters·DateJun 19, 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.

Metamorphosis of moon's water ice explained

Scientists from the University of New Hampshire and NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center explain how energetic particles create molecular hydrogen from water ice on the moon. They used data gathered by the Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation to show that up to 100% of the H2 can be formed via charged particles.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateJun 19, 2013

U of M researchers identify risk and protective factors for youth involved in bullying

Researchers identified clear risk factors for suicidal behavior among youth being bullied, including self-injury, emotional distress, and previous trauma. However, strong parental connections, positive school experiences, and perceived caring from adults were found to be significant protective factors.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJun 19, 2013

Carnegie Mellon researchers identify emotions based on brain activity

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have identified which emotion a person is experiencing based on brain activity using machine learning techniques. The study, led by Karim Kassam, achieved high accuracy levels in identifying emotions from fMRI data and has potential applications in assessing emotional responses to various stimuli.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 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.

Unusual supernova is doubly unusual for being perfectly normal

Researchers have released a unique dataset based on 32 nights of repeated observations of SN 2011fe, providing unprecedented detail and a solid point of reference for Type Ia physics. The data reveals that the supernova is remarkably normal, passing important tests but not matching leading computational models.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJun 19, 2013

What do memories look like?

Researchers have developed a way to see where and how memories are stored in the brain by attaching fluorescent markers to synaptic proteins. The microprobes allow scientists to observe live excitatory and inhibitory synapses for the first time, showing how they change as new memories are formed.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNeuron·DateJun 19, 2013

Ibrutinib continues strong showing against mantle cell lymphoma

In a Phase 2 study, ibrutinib demonstrated an overall response rate of 68% and complete response rate of 21% in patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma. The treatment showed promise with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy approaches.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 19, 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.

Staging system in ALS shows potential tracks of disease progression, Penn study finds

Researchers developed a staging system to track ALS disease progression, mapping out four distinct stages and identifying transmission patterns. The study's findings suggest a similar transmission process in other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and may lead to new treatments like immunotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJun 19, 2013

Renewed hope in a once-abandoned cancer drug class

Researchers have rediscovered PARP inhibitors as potential treatments for BRCA-driven cancers, including ovarian and breast cancers. Four drug candidates are now set to enter Phase III clinical studies.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 19, 2013

Neurosurgery publishes findings of 3 important studies in June issue

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) improve patient survival prediction in advanced brain cancers, with a pooled voting method correctly predicting risk of death within one year in 84% of patients. A new proposal calls for medical professionals and specialty societies to play an increased role in evaluating 'off-label' uses of medications.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalNeurosurgery·DateJun 19, 2013

Expressly unfit for the laboratory

Berkeley Lab researchers found that most bacterial genes are regulated by signals unrelated to their function, leading to maladaptive regulation in laboratory settings. Only a small percentage of genes showed adaptive regulation, suggesting that natural responses may not fit the classical all-benefit-and-no-cost model.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateJun 19, 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.

Snail genetic tracks reveal ancient human migration

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that Mesolithic humans transported banded wood snails from southern France to Ireland, based on genetically identical snails found in both regions. The research provides insight into the ancient human migration patterns and their impact on the local ecosystem.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 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.

An environmentally friendly battery made from wood

Researchers have created a battery made from wood coated with tin that shows promise for becoming a tiny, long-lasting and efficient energy source. The device performed successfully through 400 charge-discharge cycles, making it suitable for large-scale energy storage applications such as wind farms or solar energy installations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 19, 2013

Drug shows surprising efficacy as treatment for chronic leukemia, mantle cell lymphoma

A phase Ib/II trial showed an overall response rate of 71% for CLL patients and a 68% response rate for MCL patients, with estimated progression-free survival rates of 75% and 58% respectively. Ibrutinib has been shown to target Bruton's tyrosine kinase, a protein critical in B-cell receptor pathway for tumor cell survival.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 19, 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.

Scientists date prehistoric bacterial invasion still present in today's cells

Researchers date cyanobacterial invasion into one-celled plants to 900 million years ago, revealing new insights into the origins of photosynthesis. By analyzing fossil and genetic evidence, they estimated the age of this ancient event, providing a more precise timeline for the evolution of plant and animal cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2013

Brain can plan actions toward things the eye doesn't see

Researchers found that despite the 'connectedness illusion' affecting perceived targets, participants could accurately plan movements towards actual targets. This indicates a semi-autonomous robot-like system in the brain that plans actions independently of visual perception.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 19, 2013

Bullying and suicide among youth is a public health problem

Research by CDC panel reveals bullying among youth is linked to poor mental and physical health, long-lasting effects, and increased suicide risk. Public health strategies can prevent bullying and improve health outcomes for young people.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJun 19, 2013
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.

Dietary fructose causes liver damage in animal model, study finds

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that dietary fructose rapidly caused liver damage in an animal model, with damage more than doubling over six weeks. The researchers found that high-fructose diets led to increased intestinal bacteria migration and liver damage, even without weight gain.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 19, 2013

A shot in the arm for old antibiotics

Scientists at Harvard University's Wyss Institute have found that low doses of silver can boost the efficacy of widely used antibiotics and make previously lethal bacteria sensitive again. This discovery holds promise for treating stubborn infections and developing new therapies against antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 19, 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.

No danger of cancer through gene therapy virus

A gene therapy virus has been approved for treating a rare inherited metabolic disease, and researchers found it rarely integrates into the genome, making it safe. The virus was analyzed in patients and mice, revealing its ability to target mitochondria and potentially correcting genetic defects in human mitochondrial DNA.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 19, 2013

Mars had oxygen-rich atmosphere 4,000 million years ago

Scientists found that Martian meteorites and surface rocks have similar origins in the planet's deep interior, but surface rocks came from a more oxygen-rich environment. The researchers believe this was caused by recycling of oxygen-rich materials into the interior through subduction.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateJun 19, 2013

Why are some college students more likely to 'hook up'?

A new study found that college hooking up is influenced by pre-college hookups, personality traits, and substance use patterns, particularly marijuana use. The research suggests early hookup experiences may shape future behavior.

SourceLifespan·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateJun 19, 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.

NCAR joins massive field campaign to examine summertime air in Southeast

Researchers in the Southern Oxidant and Aerosol Study (SOAS) investigate how chemical reactions between human-related pollution and plant-emitted VOCs affect air quality in the U.S. Southeast. The project aims to uncover the controlling processes of biosphere-atmosphere interactions, which can impact regional climate and air chemistry.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJun 19, 2013

Looking at sachet water consumption in Ghana

A new study by University of Miami researcher Justin Stoler examines the demographics of sachet water usage in Ghana's capital Accra, revealing how poverty and environmental concerns impact urban water security. The research highlights the unintended social and environmental consequences of widespread sachet water use.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2013

Some parents want their child to redeem their broken dreams

A new study led by Ohio State University researchers found that parents who see their children as part of themselves are more likely to want their children to succeed in achieving their own failed dreams. The study suggests that these parents may be transferring their own broken dreams onto their children.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2013

Lexing Ying to receive SIAM's James H. Wilkinson Prize

Lexing Ying, a professor of mathematics at Stanford University, will receive the SIAM's James H. Wilkinson Prize for his outstanding contributions to numerical analysis and scientific computing. His research focuses on designing fast and accurate algorithms for fundamental problems in scientific computing.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJun 19, 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.

Tyrone Duncan to be awarded SIAM's W. T. and Idalia Reid Prize

Dr. Tyrone Duncan will receive the W. T. and Idalia Reid Prize for his fundamental contributions to nonlinear filtering, stochastic control, and probability geometry. The prize recognizes his work in differential geometry, probability, stochastic control, and statistics.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJun 19, 2013

Higher strength statins do not increase risk of kidney injury

Researchers analyzed data from two large clinical trials to investigate the impact of high-dose statins on kidney function. The findings suggest that higher-strength statins do not increase the risk of hospitalizations with kidney injury when compared to low-dose statins.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 19, 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.

Distracted walking: injuries soar for pedestrians on phones

A nationwide study estimates over 1,500 pedestrians were treated in emergency rooms for injuries related to cell phone use while walking in 2010. Young people aged 16-25 were most likely to be injured as distracted pedestrians, with talking on the phone accounting for 69% of injuries.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateJun 19, 2013