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Science News for March 20, 2013


Research show little support for controls on overseas fertility treatment

A recent study found little support for legal controls on cross-border fertility treatment in the UK. However, health professionals emphasize the importance of checking overseas clinics to ensure they meet UK standards. The research team also notes that many patients have reported receiving better quality care abroad.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology·DateMar 20, 2013

Some Alaskan trout use flexible guts for the ultimate binge diet

Dolly Varden trout in Alaska's Chignik Lake watershed use their intestines to gorge on salmon eggs, doubling in size, then shrink back down after the food pulse ends. This adaptation helps them survive months of scarcity and thrive despite nutrient-poor environments.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 20, 2013

Current and past smokers face greater risk for hip replacement failure

A recent study found that current and past smokers have a higher risk of hip replacement failure compared to non-smokers. The study, which reviewed records of total hip replacement patients between 2007 and 2009, found a significant correlation between smoking and increased revision rates.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 20, 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.

For polar bears, it's survival of the fattest

Polar bears in western Hudson Bay are forced to adapt to earlier summer sea ice break-up and later fall departure due to climate change. The timing of their migration can be predicted by sea ice melt and freeze patterns, affecting their health and cub production.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 20, 2013

Thin films of nickel and iron oxides yield efficient solar water-splitting catalyst

Researchers at the University of Oregon have developed ultra-thin films of nickel and iron oxides that demonstrate high catalytic activity for forming oxygen from water. The nickel-iron oxide catalyst was found to be most effective when just 0.4 nanometers thick, making it a promising material for solar-hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 20, 2013

Scientists develop drug that might be next best hope against malaria

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a new drug called ELQ-300 that shows great promise in treating and preventing malaria. The drug targets the parasite earlier than existing treatments, making it potentially more effective and requiring fewer doses.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 20, 2013

Natural climate swings contribute more to increased monsoon rainfall than global warming

The Northern Hemisphere monsoon has intensified, with a 9.5% increase in rainfall, due to natural climate swings rather than global warming alone. Natural long-term climate swings, such as the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, contribute significantly more to this intensification.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 2013

'Brain waves' challenge area-specific view of brain activity

Research by David Alexander and Cees van Leeuwen reveals that brain activity is not limited to specific areas, but rather follows a wave-like pattern across the entire cortex. This challenges traditional views of brain function and highlights the complex, dynamic nature of brain activity.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNeuroImage·DateMar 20, 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.

Abnormal stress response seen in toddlers exposed to meth in womb

A study found that toddlers exposed to methamphetamine in the womb may have an abnormal stress response, which can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. However, children with a stable home environment showed a normal stress response.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateMar 20, 2013

AAOS awards recognize innovative orthopaedic research

Researchers have made significant discoveries in musculoskeletal health, including bio-enhanced ACL repair and the diagnosis of posterolateral knee injuries. The new approaches aim to stimulate healing and regeneration, reduce future injury-related osteoarthritis, and improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 20, 2013

Men may have natural aversion to adultery with friends' wives

A study by University of Missouri researchers found that adult males' testosterone levels decrease when they interact with the spouse of a close friend. This suggests an innate biological mechanism that discourages men from pursuing romantic relationships with friends' wives, promoting cooperation and alliance formation.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHuman Nature·DateMar 20, 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.

Peru surprises with 2 new amazing species of woodlizards

Two new species of woodlizards were found in the Peruvian jungle, increasing the country's biodiversity. The newly described lizards, Enyalioides azulae and Enyalioides binzayedi, share a similar territory with slight differences in altitude ranges.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateMar 20, 2013

Women abused as children more likely to have children with autism

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that women who experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse as children are more likely to have a child with autism. The study, which examined data from over 50,000 women, suggests that childhood trauma may increase the risk of autism in future generations.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 20, 2013

Warm springs may be best winter refuge for Florida manatees

A new study found that nearly half of Florida manatees seek power plant outfalls for warmth, while about 17% choose warm springs. Hot springs offered the best protection against cold weather, suggesting protecting access to these refuges is crucial for long-term survival.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 20, 2013

Genomic data are growing, but what do we really know?

A large-scale evaluation of computational protein function prediction reveals that algorithms combining disparate prediction clues provide more accurate predictions, turning genomic data into useful information. The study provides a comprehensive picture of how well current methods perform, with potential improvements identified.

SourceMiami University·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 20, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Older grandfathers pass on autism risk through generations

A new study reveals that men who have children at older ages are more likely to have grandchildren with autism. The research found that the risk of autism increases with the age of the grandfather, suggesting that genetic risk can accumulate over generations.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 20, 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.

WUSTL's Wang to study oxygen consumption in cells with NSF grant

Researchers will use photoacoustic microscopy to measure oxygen consumption rates of individual cells, mapping distributions of cellular metabolism. The technology has potential applications in gauging cellular health and metabolic state for stress response and toxicity studies.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateMar 20, 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.

Atypical brain circuits may cause slower gaze shifting in infants who later develop autism

A new study found that 7-month-old infants who later develop autism show slower gaze shifting and attention reorientation compared to typically developing infants. The researchers suggest that atypical brain circuits, specifically the splenium of the corpus callosum, may contribute to this behavioral difference.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 20, 2013

3-year olds know rules of sharing but don't follow them until older

A new study found that 3-year-olds endorse equal sharing norms, but fail to follow them until they reach 7-8 years old. Researchers gave stickers valued by children of all ages and asked about sharing, finding consistent endorsement across ages. However, actual behavior showed a gap between endorsed and followed norms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 20, 2013

Estrogen helps keep joint pain at bay after hysterectomy

Researchers found that estrogen alone significantly reduced joint pain in women who had undergone a hysterectomy, with 74% of those taking estrogen experiencing no pain after three years compared to 80% of those taking a placebo. The Women's Health Initiative trial showed modest but significant differences between the two groups.

SourceThe Menopause Society·DateMar 20, 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.

Scientists discover reasons behind snakes' 'shrinking heads'

Researchers have found that sea snakes can rapidly evolve smaller heads to explore narrow burrows and avoid interbreeding with larger-headed ancestors. This process can lead to speciation and shape the population's size and appearance.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 20, 2013

New study highlights strong anti-cancer properties of soybeans

Researchers found that peptides derived from soybean meal inhibit cancer cell growth by up to 73%, making it a potential nutraceutical for reducing colon, liver and lung cancer cell growth. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new cancer treatments.

SourceElsevier·JournalFood Research International·DateMar 20, 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.

Family dinners nourish good mental health in adolescents

A large community sample of adolescents found that regular family suppers were associated with fewer emotional and behavioral problems, greater emotional well-being, and higher life satisfaction. The study suggests that family mealtimes provide opportunities for open interactions and teaching positive health behaviors.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMar 20, 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.

Clues point to cause of a rare fat-distribution disease

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a novel modification of the lamin A protein that disrupts normal patterns of fat distribution in familial partial lipodystrophy (FPLD). The discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying FPLD, a rare disease characterized by abnormal fat accumulation in certain areas...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·DateMar 20, 2013

Roads could help rather than harm the environment, say experts

A global plan for road building is proposed to reduce environmental damage by concentrating roads in suitable areas. Properly planned roads can improve farming, increase farm profits, and enhance food security, helping to feed the growing global population.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 2013

America's lower-wage workforce: Employer and worker perspectives

A recent survey by NORC at the University of Chicago found that getting ahead is seen as a personal responsibility, with employers investing in training but facing confidence issues. Lower-wage workers are less satisfied and perceive fewer advancement opportunities, with pessimism being acute among white and younger workers.

SourceNORC at the University of Chicago·DateMar 20, 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.

UC Davis research advances efforts to prevent dangerous blood clots

Researchers at UC Davis developed a nomogram to calculate individual patient risk of post-surgical venous thromboembolism, allowing clinicians to tailor prevention efforts. The study analyzed over 470,000 surgical patients and identified factors increasing blood clot risk, including age, BMI, and splenectomies.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Surgical Research·DateMar 20, 2013

97 percent of UK doctors have given placebos to patients at least once

A UK survey found that 97% of doctors have prescribed placebo treatments to patients at least once, with impure placebos being used more frequently. Doctors cited treating psychological effects and reassuring patients as reasons for prescribing placebos, while also acknowledging the need for patient trust.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 20, 2013

Humanoid robot helps train children with autism

Researchers at Vanderbilt University developed a system to help children with autism learn joint attention, a basic social skill. The humanoid robot NAO was found to be effective in improving attention and following instructions, suggesting robots could play a crucial role in responding to the growing number of autism diagnoses.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateMar 20, 2013

Media coverage of mass shootings contributes to negative attitudes towards mental illness

A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health confirms that news stories about mass shootings involving a shooter with mental illness contribute to negative perceptions of mental illness. Reading such articles raised readers' support for both gun restrictions for persons with serious mental illness and policies to ban ...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 20, 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.

Researchers spot molecular control switch for preterm lung disorders

A Yale University study found that hyperoxia can activate stress pathways in developing lungs, leading to conditions like bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Blocking Cox2 with a pain drug reversed BPD in mice, suggesting it as a potential treatment target.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·DateMar 20, 2013

Roman mausoleum tested for ancient earthquake damage

A Roman mausoleum in Turkey's Pinara has been found to have been damaged by an earthquake, with researchers concluding that a magnitude 6.3 quake could have caused the damage. The study used laser scans and 3D computer modeling to analyze the structure's stability.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateMar 20, 2013

Baffling blood problem explained

A team of scientists from the University of Vermont and France has discovered the tiny protein SMIM1, which causes the rare 'Vel-negative' blood type. This breakthrough allows for fast DNA-based tests to identify Vel-negative individuals, enabling them to receive life-saving transusions.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMar 20, 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.

Restoration and recommendations for flood-damaged bottomlands

The US Army Corps of Engineers, USDA, and FEMA invested over $51 million in restoring the 2011 flood-damaged Birds Point-New Madrid floodway. Experts recommend revising the comprehensive plan to integrate levee engineering with ecological infrastructure to mitigate future flooding.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateMar 20, 2013

Ph.D. students rethink the tenure track

Many Ph.D. students are seeking jobs outside academia due to a tight job market and scarce tenure-track positions. The "Beyond Academia" conference aims to provide a platform for exploration and career development.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateMar 20, 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.

Partner abuse counseling for women insufficient

Only about one in five central Pennsylvania women who experienced intimate partner violence were asked or counseled by a health care provider about abuse. The study highlights the need for improved preventive healthcare services, particularly among women exposed to IPV.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 20, 2013

Scripps scientists discover 'lubricant' for Earth's tectonic plates

Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography have discovered a 25-kilometer-thick layer of partially melted rock below the edge of the Cocos plate, which may be facilitating the sliding motions of tectonic plates. This finding has significant implications for understanding earthquakes and volcanism.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 2013

A step forward in the treatment of chronic urticaria

Researchers found that Omalizumab eliminated symptoms in 23% and 53% of patients with chronic urticaria. The treatment has faster effectiveness and fewer side effects than current immunosuppressors, offering hope to millions suffering from the condition.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 20, 2013

Can intraplate earthquakes produce stronger shaking than at plate boundaries?

Researchers tested the hypothesis that intraplate earthquakes could produce stronger ground shaking than those at plate boundaries. The study found no significant extension of the 1872 Owens Valley earthquake rupture, contradicting previous estimates. Instead, the data suggest that soil liquefaction occurred in nearby wetlands and mead...

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateMar 20, 2013

Estrogen may relieve post-menopausal joint pain

Post-menopausal women who received estrogen-only medication reported significantly lower joint pain frequencies compared to those receiving a placebo. The study found modest but sustained relief from joint pain in these women.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalMenopause·DateMar 20, 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.

Antidepressants for pregnant moms don't affect infants' growth

A recent study by Northwestern University found that antidepressant exposure during pregnancy does not impact infant growth over the first year. Infants born to mothers who took selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) had similar weight, length, and head circumference as infants born to non-depressed women.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 20, 2013

Metal stents are effective treatment for blocked bile ducts

A multi-center analysis shows fully covered self-expanding metal stents can effectively resolve painful and potentially life-threatening benign biliary strictures. The study found that 91.6% of patients had symptom relief after metal stent removal, with successful stricture resolution rates varying by patient group.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Gastroenterology·DateMar 20, 2013

NIST tests underscore potential hazards of green laser pointers

A recent NIST test found that nearly 90% of green laser pointers and about 44% of red pointers tested were out of compliance with federal safety regulations. The tests also showed that many commercial laser pointers emit more visible power than allowed under the Code of Federal Regulations.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Laser Applications·DateMar 20, 2013

Low-income parents say child care subsidies help them keep jobs

A recent study by Ohio State University found that low-income parents who receive federal child care subsidies are more satisfied with their child care and have an easier time balancing work and family. The study also showed that the subsidy program was underutilized, with only 37% of eligible families receiving assistance.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateMar 20, 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.

Sleep consolidates memories for competing tasks

A new study demonstrates that sleep consolidation helps retain both new memories, overcoming interference from learned tasks. Researchers measured starlings' ability to recognize new songs and found that a good night's sleep improves performance on previously learned tasks.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 20, 2013

A milestone for new carbon-dioxide capture/clean coal technology

Researchers have successfully tested a new clean coal technology that captures 99.5% of carbon dioxide emissions, paving the way for potential commercial use. The technology uses two inexpensive but polluting forms of coal and operated continuously for 200 hours without shutdown.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateMar 20, 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.

Research shows potential for quasicrystals

Researchers explore the potential of quasicrystals in fundamental optics research, offering opportunities for building smaller optical circuits and creating more efficient devices. Quasicrystals' unique properties make them an attractive area of study for applications in biosensing, solar cells, and spectroscopy.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 20, 2013

AIBS names emerging public policy leaders

The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) has selected two graduate students, Jennifer Rood and Paul Tanger, to receive the 2013 Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award for their interest and aptitude in science and public policy. The winners will participate in a training program on communicating with policymakers and brief...

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·DateMar 20, 2013

Parents should do chores together, study says

A recent study by Brigham Young University found that couples who do housework together and spend quality time with their children are more satisfied with the division of labor. The researchers also discovered that fathers' involvement in childcare significantly contributes to a better marriage relationship.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateMar 20, 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.

Maternal diabetes impairs methylation of imprinted gene in oocytes

Research reveals that maternal diabetes impairs the methylation of the maternal imprinting gene Peg3, contributing to impaired development in offspring. This effect is observed even before the onset of overt symptoms and affects embryo development and number of offspring.

SourceSociety for the Study of Reproduction·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateMar 20, 2013

Teen mentors inspire healthier choices in younger children

A new study found that teen mentors led by Ohio State University researchers can help younger students make healthier lifestyle changes and lose weight. In contrast to traditional teaching methods, the teen-mentored group showed significant improvements in physical activity and nutrition knowledge.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of School Nursing·DateMar 20, 2013

Brain mapping reveals neurological basis of decision-making in rats

Researchers used brain mapping to study decision-making in rats and found that the hippocampus plays a crucial role in linking memories to future choices. The study suggests that considering possibilities is essential for making better decisions and could lead to interventions to improve cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeuron·DateMar 20, 2013

Aerospace industry adapts to global marketplace

A Concordia University study found that Canadian aerospace companies can adapt to the global pace by adopting a smaller-is-better approach and focusing on integrated low-cost differentiation strategies. The research suggests that companies should develop marketing plans to convince large global companies of the benefits of working with...

SourceConcordia University·JournalOperations Management Research·DateMar 20, 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.

NIH-supported researchers identify new class of malaria compounds

Researchers identified a new class of anti-malarial compounds, 4-(1 H )-quinolone-3-diarylethers, derived from endochin, which effectively treats malaria in birds. The compounds demonstrated strong activity against Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, the parasites responsible for most human cases of malaria.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 20, 2013

Sustainable Development Goals must sustain people and planet

The International Council for Science recommends six new Sustainable Development Goals that integrate planetary stability with poverty eradication. The goals aim to alleviate poverty while protecting the Earth's life support system, which is facing increasing threats from climate change and environmental degradation.

SourceInternational Council for Science·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 2013

Charges for emergency room visits often based on incorrect assumptions

A new UCSF study shows that using discharge diagnoses to determine ER visit validity could dissuade patients from seeking emergency care for serious conditions. The research highlights the complexity of the issue, suggesting strategies to narrow ER use may not improve health or lower costs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateMar 20, 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.

Biodiversity does not reduce transmission of disease from animals to humans

A new study finds weak support for the dilution effect, which suggests that higher biodiversity reduces disease transmission from animals to humans. Instead, researchers found variable links between biodiversity and disease prevalence, influenced by disease systems, local ecology, and human social context.

SourceStanford University·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 20, 2013