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Science News for March 19, 2013


Researchers devise hidden dune filters to treat coastal stormwater runoff

Researchers from NC State University have developed low-cost filtration systems that filter out most bacteria in stormwater runoff by 96 percent. The systems, installed beneath sand dunes, show minimal impact on groundwater levels and effectively limit bacterial pollution.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEcological Engineering·DateMar 19, 2013

Sexual function improves significantly after hip or knee replacement surgery

New research found that total hip and knee replacement surgeries significantly improve sexual function in 90% of patients, with women experiencing a higher rate of improvement. The study also revealed that psychological issues related to osteoarthritis were common among patients, but improved following surgery.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 19, 2013

African immunization systems fall short, African experts say

African experts argue that immunization systems are failing due to issues with vaccine supply, financing, and sustainability. The authors call for strengthened programs to address regional and country-specific problems and develop precise strategies to overcome challenges.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 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.

Immigration reform needs to address access to health care

A new report from The Hastings Center highlights the need to integrate undocumented immigrants into the US healthcare system, as they lack insurance and are ineligible for most federal programs. The report recommends addressing this issue in immigration reform proposals to improve population health, particularly among children and Hisp...

SourceThe Hastings Center·DateMar 19, 2013

Conscientious people are more likely to have higher GPAs

A meta-analysis of 51 studies found a positive correlation between conscientiousness and college grade point averages. The study suggests that individuals with higher levels of conscientiousness tend to excel academically beyond their initial high school grades or achievement test scores.

SourceRice University·JournalPsychological Assessment·DateMar 19, 2013

180,000 deaths worldwide may be associated with sugary soft drinks

A recent study links sugar-sweetened beverages to 133,000 diabetes deaths and 44,000 cardiovascular disease deaths worldwide. The research highlights the significant impact of sugary drink consumption on obesity and related health issues, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 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.

First of its kind study in Canada looks at who is taking aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke

A new study in Canada has found that over 40% of healthy individuals are taking daily aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease, despite recent literature suggesting its limited benefits. The study's authors hope to raise awareness among physicians and patients about the importance of discussing anti-platelet medication use.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Family Physician·DateMar 19, 2013

Genes identify breast cancer risk and may aid prevention

Researchers have discovered a set of genes that can predict which women are at high risk for estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, making it possible to identify potential beneficiaries of preventive drugs. The study identifies 13 genes associated with lipid or fat metabolism in women with hormone receptor-negative breast cancer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateMar 19, 2013

'Kill Bill' character inspires the name of a new parasitoid wasp species

Three new species of parasitoid wasps were discovered in Papua New Guinea and Thailand, with the Thai species named after Beatrix Kiddo due to its deadly biology. The wasps' reproductive habits involve developing eggs in other insects and killing or immobilizing their hosts.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalJournal of Hymenoptera Research·DateMar 19, 2013

It's a sure thing: Knowledge of the game is not an advantage in sports gambling

A study published in Psychopathology found that sports gamblers who believed they could control the outcome using knowledge of the game were actually no more successful than those with no prior experience or knowledge. Cognitive therapy may be a better approach for treating this type of addiction.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPsychopathology·DateMar 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.

More career options may explain why fewer women pursue jobs in science and math

A new study published in Psychological Science suggests that the greater likelihood of females having high verbal abilities may lead them to consider a wider range of occupations, resulting in fewer STEM career choices. Researchers found that students with high math and moderate verbal abilities were more likely to pursue STEM careers,...

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

Laser-like photons signal major step towards quantum 'Internet'

Researchers at Cambridge University have successfully generated high-quality photons identical to lasers from solid-state devices, a major breakthrough towards quantum networking. This achievement brings us closer to realizing a quantum internet, where distributed networks can share highly coherent and programmable photonic interconnects.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2013

New clues in hunt for heredity in type 2 diabetes

A new study by Lund University researchers has found that epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, can influence the function of insulin-producing cells and alter genetic risk variants for type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that these modifications may play a key role in the development of the disease.

SourceLund University·JournalDiabetologia·DateMar 19, 2013

Fewer women pursue jobs in science because they have more career options

A University of Pittsburgh study published in Psychological Science suggests that women are less likely to pursue STEM careers because they have more career choices. The research found that students with high verbal abilities and moderate math skills were less likely to choose STEM occupations.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 19, 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.

Are survivors of childhood leukemia and lymphoma at greater risk of chronic fatigue as adults?

Chronic fatigue is three times more prevalent among adult cancer survivors than the general population. A persistent low-grade inflammatory response may contribute to chronic fatigue in these individuals. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to communicate with cancer survivor patients about possible chronic fatigue.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology·DateMar 19, 2013

Wireless, implanted sensor broadens range of brain research

A compact wireless sensor recorded and transmitted brain activity data wirelessly for over a year in animal tests, representing a major step toward cord-free control of advanced prosthetics. The device has the potential to revolutionize rehabilitation options for people with physical disabilities.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateMar 19, 2013

Forsyth Institute receives $4.1 million grant for new center

The Forsyth Center for Salivary Diagnostics will revolutionize disease testing using saliva-based tests, which contain virtually all medical diagnostic information as blood. The facility aims to develop and commercialize new assays that are less expensive and more convenient.

SourceForsyth Institute·DateMar 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.

Practice makes perfect with Webb telescope mirror placement

The James Webb Space Telescope will feature 18 individual mirror segments that require precise alignment at extremely cold temperatures in space. The telescope's backplane is a truss structure made of lightweight but stiff tubes, holding the mirror segments together.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 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.

US company identified as manufacture of lead paint in Africa

A study by OK International and CREPD found high levels of lead in household paints sold in Cameroon, exceeding 50% by weight. The US company PPG is the manufacturer, despite lead being banned in the US for over 30 years.

SourceTaylor & Francis·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene·DateMar 19, 2013

'OzoneMap' app delivering real-time air quality reports

OzoneMap is a free mobile app that provides real-time air quality reports for the greater Houston area. It features a map of the city with colored clouds illustrating ozone levels, allowing users to select from three different maps and access information on health effects.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 19, 2013

For polar bears, it's survival of the fattest

A study on polar bears in western Hudson Bay found that the timing of their migration can be predicted by sea ice melt and freeze patterns. The results suggest that as sea ice melts earlier and freezes later, polar bears arrive on shore earlier in the summer and leave later in the autumn.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 19, 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.

Ben-Gurion U. researchers and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. develop psoriasis drug

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. have developed a promising drug candidate to treat psoriasis. The engineered receptor effectively reduces inflammatory signals in mice models, showing potential for a viable treatment for severe psoriasis patients.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateMar 19, 2013

UMass Amherst researchers reveal mechanism of novel biological electron transfer

Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified the importance of amino acids in facilitating electrical conductivity in bacterial pili, a paradigm shift from traditional understanding of biological electron transfer. This discovery has significant implications for environmental cleanup and renewable energy sources.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalmBio·DateMar 19, 2013

Study explores long-term water quality trends in near-pristine streams

Researchers analyzed decades-long data from 22 streams in 7 experimental forests across the US, highlighting regional patterns of change in stream nitrogen concentrations. The study's findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring in informing best management practices for protecting water resources.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 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.

Research explores road signs on the intracellular highway

Scientists aim to unravel the mystery of microtubule directional signs, crucial for understanding diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS. The study's focus is on identifying modifications that could serve as road signs along molecular highways.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateMar 19, 2013

Biennial mammograms best after 50, even for women with dense breasts

A new study involving over 900,000 women found that biennial mammograms are as effective as yearly exams in detecting breast cancer and reducing false positives. For women with dense breasts, screening every two years decreases the risk of false-positive results by about a third.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 19, 2013

SMU Lyle School of Engineering course sparks CCL study

The SMU Lyle School of Engineering's 'Innovation Gym' course has drawn attention from the Center For Creative Leadership (CCL) for its effective use of cross-functional teams and agile work processes. The CCL team will study the student techniques to develop new tools and processes that can benefit organizations nationwide.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·DateMar 19, 2013

Researchers identify a promising target for multiple sclerosis treatments

A team of scientists identified a novel mechanism by which CD4 T cells expressing NKG2C can target brain cells in Multiple Sclerosis patients. This discovery could lead to improved treatments aiming to decrease disease progression and symptoms, without the risk of potentially lethal infections.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMar 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.

Under the skin, a tiny laboratory

EPFL scientists have developed a tiny implant that can analyze proteins and organic acids in the blood, sending results to doctors' computers for more personalized care. The device has demonstrated reliable detection of several substances and has potential applications in chemotherapy and chronic illness monitoring.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateMar 19, 2013

Spine patients who quit smoking report diminished pain

A recent study presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons meeting found that spine patients who quit smoking experience diminished pain. Non-smokers showed significant improvements in reported pain, while those who continued to smoke saw no clinically significant improvement.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 19, 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.

Can a tropical water flea invade European lakes?

Experiments predict that Daphnia lumholtzi can invade European lakes and outcompete native species, leading to substantial declines in population growth. The invasive species' ability to thrive at low temperatures also poses a threat.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateMar 19, 2013

How proteins read meta DNA code

Researchers developed a basic computer model of the nucleosome to identify the sliding mechanism of nucleosomes along the DNA. This mechanism supports the idea of a second genetic code, previously suggested in 2006, which consists of a mechanical code written within the base pair sequence.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 19, 2013

Tenfold boost in ability to pinpoint proteins in cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a new method to analyze single cells using quantum dots, allowing for the simultaneous testing of up to 100 biomarkers. This breakthrough enables more accurate diagnosis and treatment of cancer by examining a cell's unique behavior at its molecular level.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2013

Discounts on purchases of healthy foods can improve diets, study finds

A South African program offering a 10-25% rebate on healthy food purchases found that lower prices motivate people to significantly improve their diet. The analysis of supermarket scanner data and survey responses showed an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption and a decrease in less-desirable food purchases.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 19, 2013

Brain tumor cells killed by anti-nausea drug

Researchers found that blocking substance P binding to its receptor NK1 with the anti-nausea drug Emend halted brain tumor growth and caused cell death in tumor cells. This breakthrough offers new opportunities for studying possible brain tumor treatments.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateMar 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.

NASA's LRO sees GRAIL's explosive farewell

The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) observed GRAIL's intentional crash into a lunar mountain, kicking up dust and gas to reveal mercury and hydrogen in the plume. The findings provide insight into the moon's volatile material transport around the lunar poles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 19, 2013

Origins of human teamwork found in chimpanzees

Scientists found that chimpanzees coordinate actions and understand the need to help a partner perform their role to achieve a common goal. In trials, pairs of chimpanzees solved problems together, even swapping tools, to get food out of a box, demonstrating strategic coordination similar to humans.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBiology Letters·DateMar 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.

Study could aid development of new drugs to treat gout

A Loyola University Chicago study found that disabling a specific calcium channel called TRPM2 could reduce painful inflammation in gout. The researchers also discovered that liposomes with a positive or negative electric charge can stimulate the immune system to attack pathogens.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 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.

New disorder could classify millions of people as mentally ill

A new somatic symptom disorder in DSM-5 risks mislabeling many people as mentally ill due to a lack of specificity and high false-positive rate. The condition will classify excessive responses to distressing symptoms, potentially leading to inappropriate medical decision-making.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 19, 2013

Anxiety, depression identify heart disease patients at increased risk of dying

New research reveals that heart disease patients with anxiety are twice as likely to die from any cause compared to those without anxiety. Those with both anxiety and depression face a tripled risk of death. The study suggests that anxiety may underlie the risk previously attributed solely to depression.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMar 19, 2013

Dartmouth researchers invent real time secondhand smoke sensor

Researchers at Dartmouth College have invented a mini prototype that can detect nicotine vapor molecules in real time, pinpointing when and where exposure occurred. The device has the potential to enforce no-smoking regulations and raise awareness about secondhand smoke risks.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateMar 19, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Most men with erectile dysfunction remain untreated, say US scientists

A new study analyzed 6.2 million patients and found that 74.6% of men with erectile dysfunction remained untreated, highlighting the need for improved treatment access and awareness. The study also showed that treatment frequency varied by co-morbidities, with hypogonadism being a key factor in treatment usage.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 19, 2013

IUPUI stem cell research could expand clinical use of regenerative human cells

Researchers at IUPUI have successfully differentiated human induced pluripotent stem cells into retinal cells using chemical methods, eliminating the need for animal products. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for retinal diseases and expand the clinical use of regenerative human cells.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 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.

Zoledronic acid does not prevent bone metastases in high-risk PCa patients

A study by the ZEUS group found no significant difference in the incidence of bone metastases between patients receiving zoledronic acid and those on standard treatment. The 50-month study suggested that zoledronic acid may not be effective in preventing hormone therapy-induced bone loss in high-risk prostate cancer patients.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 19, 2013

Are accountable care organizations 'improving population health'?

Weill Cornell researchers argue that ACOs may not be improving population health as intended, as their focus is often solely on medical care for patients within their geographic area. The authors emphasize the importance of clearly defining population health to formulate effective healthcare and social service policies.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateMar 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.

Fantastic flash memory combines graphene and molybdenite

Researchers combine the electronic properties of molybdenite and graphene to develop a flash memory prototype that stores data even in absence of electricity. The material offers great potential for efficient data storage due to its unique 'energy band' and high sensitivity to charge.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 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.

DNA catalysts do the work of protein enzymes

Scientists create artificial DNA catalysts that can modify amino acids in proteins, altering their function. This breakthrough could lead to new tools for studying protein modifications and developing practical applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 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.

Spying on spy apps: SnT researchers receive Google grant

Researchers at the University of Luxembourg's Secure Networks & Trusted Technology (SnT) facility have received a Google Faculty Research Award to develop automated application analysis software. The software aims to identify malicious behavior in Android apps, such as unauthorized data access or communication patterns.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·DateMar 19, 2013

Los Alamos science sleuth on the trail of a Martian mystery

Postdoctoral researcher Nina Lanza discovered a consistent chemical signature in Martian rocks sampled by the Curiosity rover's ChemCam instrument during its first 90 days on Mars. The signature appears after five laser blasts, leading to theories about dust or geological coatings on the planet's surface.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·DateMar 19, 2013

Mayo Clinic researchers develop test to gauge severity of concussions

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a new test that measures involuntary changes in heart rate and blood pressure to identify the severity of concussions. The test, known as autonomic reflex testing, shows significant changes in those with concussion, providing a potential tool for diagnosing and monitoring recovery.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateMar 19, 2013

Military personnel return to duty following severe injury to lower extremity

A new study presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons meeting shows that 13 out of 14 wounded warriors returned to combat after completing the Return to Run orthotic rehab initiative. The program successfully restored functional and occupational capabilities, including walking, running, and standing for long periods.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 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.

Cell Transplantation study finds stem cells in deer antler

A team of researchers has discovered multipotent stem cells in deer antlers, which can differentiate into multiple cell types and have the potential to treat various injuries in veterinary medicine. The study highlights a novel source of stem cells for use in regenerative therapies.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateMar 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.

Electrical signals dictate optical properties

Researchers at the University of Southampton have created an artificial material that can be controlled by electric signals. This breakthrough enables the rapid manipulation of metamaterial building blocks, leading to changes in transmission and reflection characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 19, 2013

Is surgery the only option for meniscal tear and osteoarthritis?

A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that physical therapy improves functional status, pain, and physical function in patients with meniscal tears and osteoarthritis. For a third of patients assigned to physical therapy, surgery was still necessary.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2013

New ultra-efficient HPC data center debuts

The new HPC data center at NREL's Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF) is the first of its kind, boasting an annualized average power usage effectiveness (PUE) rating of 1.06 or better. It achieves this by using warm-water liquid cooling and capturing and reusing waste heat to reduce energy consumption.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateMar 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.

Inherited genetic variations have a major impact on childhood leukemia risk

A new study from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that inherited genetic variations in four genes increase the risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children. The research also showed ethnic differences in the cancer's incidence, with higher rates among Hispanic and African American patients.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 19, 2013

UCLA researchers create tomatoes that mimic actions of good cholesterol

Researchers genetically engineered tomatoes to produce a peptide that mimics the action of good cholesterol, reducing inflammation and plaque build-up in mice. The study suggests that targeting the small intestine may be a new strategy to prevent diet-induced atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateMar 19, 2013