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Science News for March 8, 2013


Weight loss may prevent, treat osteoarthritis in obese patients

A literature review suggests that weight loss can diminish pain, restore function, and quality of life in osteoarthritis patients. Obesity may trigger biomechanical changes contributing to the condition, making weight loss a key treatment option for arthritis and joint pain prevention.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 8, 2013

Genetic study of house dust mites demonstrates reversible evolution

A recent genetic study of house dust mites demonstrates reversible evolution, contradicting Dollo's law. The research found that these tiny creatures evolved from parasites, but then returned to a free-living lifestyle, speciating in various habitats, including human habitations.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalSystematic Biology·DateMar 8, 2013

Conservationists to CITES: Stop trade in wild cheetahs

Conservationists and representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda have joined forces to highlight the plight of threatened wild cheetahs due to the illegal pet trade. The CITES Conference of the Parties has accepted a proposal for a study on the cheetah trade, which could impact the survival of cheetah populations in Africa.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·DateMar 8, 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.

Outdoor heat increases risk of emergency respiratory hospitalization in elderly

A large epidemiological study found that short-term exposure to outdoor heat increases the risk of hospitalization for COPD and respiratory tract infections in the elderly. The risk was consistent across all age groups and genders, with a strong association between heat and hospitalizations.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 8, 2013

A*STAR scientists discover 'switch' critical to wound healing

Researchers identified a molecular 'switch' controlling skin cell migration necessary for wound closure and healing. The discovery may hold the key to developing therapeutics that reduce or prevent chronic wounds.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 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.

Mom's sensitivity helps language development in children with hearing loss

A recent study published in The Journal of Pediatrics reveals that highly sensitive parenting is crucial for language growth in children with severe to profound hearing loss. Children whose mothers displayed high sensitivity showed significant improvements in oral language development compared to those with less sensitive parents.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMar 8, 2013

Celebrity endorsement encourages children to eat junk food

A University of Liverpool study found that celebrity endorsement boosts children's desire for junk food. The research demonstrated that even seeing a celebrity outside of an advertisement prompts kids to consume more of the endorsed product.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMar 8, 2013

Biological tooth replacement -- a step closer

Researchers at King's College London have developed a new method for replacing missing teeth with bioengineered material from human gum cells. The technique, which uses adult human epithelial cells and mouse mesenchyme cells, can produce functional teeth with viable roots and dentine.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMar 8, 2013

Full wired: Planar cell polarity genes guide gut neurons

The study found that planar cell polarity genes Celsr3 and Fzd3 control the formation of complex neural networks in the gut. Inactivation of these genes resulted in disorganization of neuronal projections, slower gut transit time, and abnormal colonic motility.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 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.

University of Illinois researchers develop AFM-IR for nanometer scale chemical identification

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a novel technique called atomic force microscope infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR) to measure chemical properties of polymer nanostructures as small as 15 nm. This technique enables accurate identification of material composition, crucial for applications in semiconductors, composite mat...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMar 8, 2013

NIST quantum refrigerator offers extreme cooling and convenience

Researchers at NIST have demonstrated a solid-state refrigerator that uses quantum physics to cool larger objects to extremely low temperatures. The prototype enables the placement of any suitable object in the cooling zone and later removal and replacement, similar to an all-purpose kitchen refrigerator.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 8, 2013

Signaling molecule may help stem cells focus on making bone despite age, disease

Researchers have found that a signaling molecule called SDF-1 helps stem cells survive in the low-oxygen environment of bone marrow by activating autophagy, a survival pathway. However, with age or disease, SDF-1's role shifts, reducing stem cell survival and increasing the likelihood of fat cell formation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 8, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Maternal obesity increases the risk of frequent wheezing in offspring

A new study confirms that children of mothers with obesity are four times more likely to experience frequent wheezing during the first 14 months of life. This finding suggests a potential intergenerational link between maternal obesity and asthma, highlighting the importance of weight management before pregnancy.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalPaediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology·DateMar 8, 2013

Partner abuse counseling for women insufficient

A Penn State study reveals that only one in five central Pennsylvania women who have experienced intimate partner violence are asked or counseled by a healthcare provider. The research highlights inadequate preventive care services for women exposed to IPV, which can lead to serious immediate and long-term health issues.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 8, 2013

JCI early table of contents for March 8, 2013

Heavy drinkers show enhanced brain acetate metabolism, which may provide an energetic reward to compensate for drops in blood glucose levels. Additionally, planar cell polarity genes guide the formation of gut neurons, and their dysfunction is linked to gastrointestinal motility disorders.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 2013

Quantum computing moves forward

Recent advances enable control of individual atoms used in quantum information processing, paving the way for creation of powerful computers and highly sensitive detectors. Researchers explore ways to transmit quantum information over long distances and scale up the number of qubits.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 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.

White Delight: New peach varieties released for warmer climates

Four new white peach varieties, White Delight series, are being released for production in nurseries this year, catering to growers in warmer climates. The three clingstone and one semi-freestone varieties ripen consecutively from late-May through mid-July with high-taste scores.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateMar 8, 2013

Specialised germanium surface as universal protein adapter

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have developed a new method to attach proteins to the surface of germanium crystals, enabling time-resolved tracking of molecule interactions. This technology has been applied in the EU project K4DD and allows for the study of G-protein-coupled receptors.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 8, 2013

Bioscience to battle ash dieback

The BBSRC has awarded funding to two projects: the Nornex consortium, studying the molecular and cellular basis of interactions between the fungus and ash trees, and Professor Christopher Gilligan's team, developing computer models to predict the spread of ash dieback in the UK.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateMar 8, 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.

UTHealth researchers say more rapid test for Group B strep successful

A rapid laboratory test for pregnant women to detect Group B strep has been developed and is highly valid, identifying GBS colonization in six and a half hours. This new test could help reduce the overuse of resources and minimize bacterial resistance by targeting patients with threatened preterm labor.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalInfectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 8, 2013

NASA satellite sees Sandra strengthening at sea

Cyclone Sandra is intensifying in the Southern Pacific Ocean, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing infrared data showing cloud top temperatures growing colder and thunderstorms strengthening around its center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 8, 2013

Study shows confidence builds better exercise habits for cancer survivors

A study published in Health Psychology found that endometrial cancer survivors who had higher daily self-efficacy tended to exercise longer and more intensively. This is significant because exercise is a crucial aspect of cancer survivorship, particularly for those who are overweight or obese.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMar 8, 2013

NASA supports Extreme Universe Space Observatory

The NASA grant will support the U.S. institutions in building lasers and monitoring equipment for calibrating the telescope's optics from around the globe. The Extreme Universe Space Observatory aims to discover the sources of ultra high-energy cosmic rays by observing their traces in the atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateMar 8, 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.

Anti-aging drug breakthrough

Researchers have discovered a single anti-ageing enzyme that can be targeted by all 117 tested drugs, leading to a new class of anti-ageing medications. The enzymes' activators, such as resveratrol, show promising results in trials for various diseases, including cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2013

New player in electron field emitter technology makes for better imaging and communications

Scientists at NIST and University of Maryland have developed a practical high-efficiency nanostructured electron source, leading to improved microwave communications and X-ray imaging systems. The new technology offers faster response times, reliability, and reduced power consumption compared to traditional thermionic sources.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNanotechnology·DateMar 8, 2013

Oysters safer to eat with improved purification method

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed an improved purification method for oysters that effectively removes Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteria, reducing the risk of gastroenteritis. The new process uses temperature-controlled depuration with ultraviolet light, eliminating 99.9% of bacteria after four to five days.

SourceOregon State University·DateMar 8, 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.

Emotion-health connection not limited to industrialized nations

A new study of 150,000 people in 142 countries found that positive emotions have a stronger link to health in low-income countries. In contrast, the association between positive emotions and health is weaker in industrialized nations.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 8, 2013

Enhanced brain acetate metabolism may reward heavy drinkers

Heavy drinkers show greater and faster acetate uptake and metabolism in the brain compared to light drinkers. Acetate can serve as an alternative energy source, potentially alleviating withdrawal symptoms during detoxification.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 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.

Temp-controlled 'nanopores' may allow detailed blood analysis

Researchers have developed temperature-controlled nanopores that can detect and identify a wide range of molecules in the bloodstream, including proteins and DNA. This innovation may enable doctors to diagnose diseases more effectively by quickly identifying indicators of disease in the blood.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 8, 2013

Wayne State researcher gives new name to exhaustion suffered by cancer patients

A new study defines 'sudden exhaustion syndrome' as a distinct condition affecting cancer patients undergoing treatment, characterized by intense and prolonged fatigue. The research aims to enhance recognition and management of this often-overlooked symptom among oncology professionals.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalSupportive Care in Cancer·DateMar 8, 2013

Some biologists shun new media

A study by neuroscientists found that while they recognize the importance of new media in shaping public opinion, most researchers make little personal use of social networks. The study suggests scientists still value the vetting process for information in traditional media channels.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateMar 8, 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.

Virus and genes involved in causation of schizophrenia

A study by an international team of researchers has found that a combination of cytomegalovirus infection in the mother and a specific gene variant in the child significantly increases the risk of schizophrenia. The risk is five times higher than usual, according to the research published in Molecular Psychiatry.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 8, 2013

Home toxic home

Researchers at Michigan State University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the survival mechanisms of primitive red algae. The algae's ability to thrive in hot and acidic environments lies in part in their membrane proteins, which are also found in human cells and hold promise for treating diseases.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2013