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Science News for November 15, 2013


'What could possibly go wrong?' A lot

A recent case series of serious injuries at the Tough Mudder event highlights the risks associated with extreme sports events. Participants experienced a range of severe injuries, including multiple electrical burns, seizure-induced Todd's paralysis, and face and head trauma.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateNov 15, 2013

Whither the teakettle whistle

A team of engineers has accurately modeled the whistling mechanism in a classic stovetop kettle, identifying two-mechanism process of whistle production and potential solutions to noisy plumbing issues. The study's findings reveal that swirling vortices create the siren sound, which could help eliminate annoying noises.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 15, 2013

Ocean acidification: Hard to digest

Researchers found that ocean acidification impairs digestion in larvae of the green sea urchin, leading to reduced growth and fertility. The study used novel pH micro-electrode techniques to investigate digestion and digestive enzymes in the larvae.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 15, 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.

Protein quality: It matters

Research presented at SupplySide West highlights the superiority of whey protein in building and maintaining lean muscle, maintaining weight and aging healthy. Whey protein is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids, with benefits including reducing hunger, improving exercise recovery and reducing muscle loss with aging.

SourceFoodMinds LLC·DateNov 15, 2013

Penn Dental Medicine team identifies molecule critical to healing wounds

Researchers have identified FOX01 as a critical molecule in the wound-healing process, providing a possible new target for pharmaceuticals. The study found that FOX01 plays an integral role in activating key growth factor TGF-β1 and protecting cells against oxidative stress.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 15, 2013

New hologram technology created with tiny nanoantennas

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new hologram technology using tiny nanoantennas that can control light with unprecedented efficiency. The metasurface, thousands of V-shaped nanoantennas, enables the creation of ultra-efficient devices for sensing, displays and information processing.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 15, 2013
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Variation of halogens in martian soil calls for an atmosphere-surface cycle

A team of scientists found evidence for bromides converting to reactive gases in Martian soil, leading to variable sulfur-chlorine ratios. This could alter existing models of aqueous processes and oxidants on Mars, affecting the search for life. The study also suggests that volatilized halogens may have impacted subsurface distribution.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalIcarus·DateNov 15, 2013

Chronic diseases hinder good cancer survival rates

Studies reveal that comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease decrease one- and five-year survival rates for breast cancer patients. This indicates the need to reevaluate treatment approaches and optimize care for patients with concurrent diseases.

SourceAarhus University·JournalClinical Epidemiology·DateNov 15, 2013

Blocking signal-transmitting cellular pores may prevent damage to kidneys

A recent study identified TRPC5, a molecule that plays a key role in the breakdown of the kidney filter, as a potential therapeutic target for stopping damage. The researchers found that blocking TRPC5 channels can prevent cytoskeletal collapse and subsequent kidney damage.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 15, 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.

Success of climate talks vital for 2°C target

A comprehensive analysis of Durban Platform scenarios suggests that climate talks can deliver an outcome consistent with the 2-degree target if global climate action is substantially strengthened. However, delaying action would require higher emission decline rates and larger economic costs.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalClimate Change Economics·DateNov 15, 2013

DOE awards $25.4 million for 'extreme scale' supercomputer interconnect design

The DOE has awarded $25.4 million to five leading companies for the development of next-generation supercomputers, advancing exascale computing technology vital to national security and scientific research. The partnerships will focus on designing energy-efficient, high-bandwidth interconnects for future HPC architectures.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateNov 15, 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.

Large-scale analysis finds inappropriate lab testing throughout medicine

A recent study analyzing 1.6 million results from 46 commonly ordered lab tests found that 30% of tests are probably unnecessary, while equally as many necessary tests may be going unordered. The research suggests that ordering the right tests during initial evaluations can lead to fewer errors and better patient care.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 15, 2013

Sunspots: Coming and going

Two large sunspots, AR1890 and AR1897, are active on the sun, with AR1890 producing significant flares and AR1897 nearing its appearance on Earth-side of the sun. The sun's 11-year activity cycle is increasing towards solar maximum conditions, leading to an uptick in flares.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 15, 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.

Nanoparticles to probe mystery sperm defects behind infertility

Scientists at Oxford University have developed a technique using nanoparticles to investigate the mechanisms underlying 'mystery' cases of infertility. The method involves loading porous silica nanoparticle envelopes with compounds to identify or treat causes of infertility, demonstrating no detrimental effects on sperm function.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·DateNov 15, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Can certain herbs stave off Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers found that antioxidant extracts from spearmint and rosemary reduce deficits in mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests these herbal compounds might have beneficial effects on altering age-associated cognitive decline.

SourceSaint Louis University·DateNov 15, 2013

Rising concerns over tree pests and diseases

New research reveals a growing concern over tree pests and diseases, which can lead to widespread death of trees and disrupt ecosystem services. The review highlights the need for new approaches to pest management that take into account multiple services and stakeholders.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience·DateNov 15, 2013

Team-based approaches needed to fight high blood pressure

Comprehensive hypertension programs that coordinate care using multiple resources may lead to better overall blood pressure control. Lifestyle changes for patients were strongly recommended as well. The advisory provides eight principles for developing an effective high blood pressure treatment algorithm.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateNov 15, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

JCI early table of contents for Nov. 15, 2013

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that two p53 isoforms regulate aging- and tumor-associated replicative senescence in T lymphocytes. Additionally, a new gene therapy approach may not require immunosuppression, as regulatory T cells promote long-term expression.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 15, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tasmania home to first alpine sword-sedge

A team of researchers from Australia has discovered a high-altitude species of sedge in Tasmania, Lepidosperma monticola, which is unique to alpine vegetation and the smallest known species of the genus. The new species grows on mountains at elevations above 700m and can be distinguished by its fruit morphology.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateNov 15, 2013

Bait research focused on outsmarting destructive beetle

A new study from the University of Alberta has identified key tree chemical compounds that play critical roles in the beetle's pheromone production and attraction. The research reveals that adding a volatile tree chemical to bait can increase beetle capture rates, providing hope for quicker monitoring and early detection of infestations.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNew Phytologist·DateNov 15, 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.

How teens choose their friends

A national study led by Michigan State University scholar finds that course-taking influences teenage friendships. Students in similar academic pursuits form close bonds, and small classes often create opportunities for friendships.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateNov 15, 2013

Overcoming brittleness: New insights into bulk metallic glass

Researchers have discovered a new class of bulk metallic glasses that exhibit enhanced fatigue endurance, thanks to a unique staircase-like fracture mechanism. This breakthrough paves the way for widespread adoption in industries such as smartphones, biomedical implants and aerospace engineering.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2013

Tipping the balance between senescence and proliferation

Researchers found that two p53 isoforms, Δ133p53 and p53β, play a crucial role in regulating senescence. The study suggests that altering the ratio of these isoforms may be an effective therapeutic strategy for treating immunosenescence disorders.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 15, 2013
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Revisiting quantum effects in MEMS

Researchers found that quantum effects on MEMS operating conditions have been overestimated, affecting device stability. The study's results indicate changes in stability based on metal coatings and silicon doping levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateNov 15, 2013

Drug offers promising approach to improve outcome for children with high-risk leukemia

A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that combining gemtuzumab ozogamicin with conventional chemotherapy improves the outcome of bone marrow transplantation for some children with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia. The treatment helped eliminate minimal residual disease, leading to better patient survival rates.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCancer·DateNov 15, 2013

NASA-led firefly mission to study lightning

A NASA-led mission called Firefly aims to study lightning and terrestrial gamma ray flashes from space. The instrument will gather data for up to a year, shedding light on the global electric circuit's most critical component.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 15, 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.

Vivax malaria may be evolving around natural defense

Researchers have discovered genetic mutations in Plasmodium vivax that may be causing a rise in infections among Duffy negative individuals. The mutations include a duplication of the Duffy binding protein and two new proteins that resemble those used by related malaria parasites to enter red blood cells.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 15, 2013

A decline in creativity? It depends on how you look

A recent study by Harvard University researchers found that student creative writing is showing signs of decline over the past 20 years, while visual art is experiencing an increase in sophistication and complexity. The study analyzed 354 examples of visual art and 50 examples of creative writing by teenagers between 1990 and 2011.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalCreativity Research Journal·DateNov 15, 2013

Quantum state world record smashed

Researchers have achieved a world record by storing a fragile quantum state at room temperature for 39 minutes, overcoming a key barrier towards building ultrafast quantum computers. This breakthrough could lead to long-term coherent information storage and potential applications in ultra-secure authentication devices.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateNov 15, 2013
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Study shows wind turbines killed 600,000 bats last year

A new study from the University of Colorado Denver estimates that wind turbines killed over 600,000 bats in 2012, a significant blow to pollination and insect control. The study found that areas near the Appalachian Mountains had the highest bat fatality rates, with some species experiencing fatalities of up to 40%.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalBioScience·DateNov 15, 2013

Persistent gene therapy in muscle may not require immunosuppression

Researchers found that a gene therapy approach using rAAV vectors can promote a regulatory immune response, allowing for sustained gene expression in muscle tissue without the need for immunosuppression. The study used M-type α-1 antitrypsin (M-AAT) and demonstrated long-term expression in patients with AAT deficiency.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 15, 2013