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Science News for July 18, 2005


Female adolescents trendsetters in teen talk

A study by Professor Sali Tagliamonte found that female adolescents tend to use words like, just, and so more frequently in their conversations as they get older. This language change occurs earlier than in males, with 15- and 16-year-old females using the word 'like' most frequently.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Pragmatics·DateJul 18, 2005

Scientists discover more about how cancer cells form and grow

Researchers found that tumor cells use jagged1 protein to interact with endothelial cells, prompting angiogenesis and tumor growth. This discovery could lead to a two-pronged approach to treat cancer by blocking protein secretion and cell contact.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 18, 2005

PTEN, TSC2, and tumorigenesis

Researchers investigated the roles of PTEN and TSC2 in tumorigenesis and found that TSC2 can suppress specific tumors caused by Pten heterozygosity. However, PTEN is haploinsufficient for repression of carcinogenesis resulting from Tsc2 heterozygosity.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 18, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bring home the bacon

Research by Suraj Commuri and James Gentry found that women earning more than their spouses do not simultaneously earn domestic power, despite previous theories suggesting a shift in decision-making authority. The study highlights the need for further examination of household forms and consumption decisions influenced by factors such a...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 18, 2005

Cultural mindset a factor in forming responses to challenges

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that bicultural participants who viewed Chinese or American cultural icons showed distinct cooperation patterns in a prisoner's dilemma scenario. Chinese icons led to higher levels of cooperation and confidence among friends, while American icons had little impact.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 18, 2005

Kids are cynics, too? Yeah, right

Research found that children can recognize and discount self-interested statements by age 7, yet struggle to grasp unintentional biases. By age 11, they better understand situational bias as a possible explanation for what people say.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for July 19, 2005

A national survey reveals that many Americans take high doses of vitamin E supplements, despite potential risks, and a study shows that test results are frequently forgotten after hospital discharge. A new study suggests that full coverage for ACE inhibitors would improve health outcomes and save Medicare money.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 18, 2005

New technique rapidly detects illness-causing bacteria

A new biosensor can detect fewer than 100 cells of a pathogen in just half an hour, making it faster and more efficient than traditional gene amplification techniques. The method uses ribosomal RNA to identify specific microbe sequences, allowing for quick identification of illness-causing bacteria.

SourceCornell University·DateJul 18, 2005

U of T study shows barriers to HIV vaccine acceptance

A U of T study identified barriers to future HIV vaccine acceptance, including concerns about power dynamics, affordability, and stigma. Researchers found that women viewed vaccination as empowering and a way to protect themselves and their children.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAIDS Education and Prevention·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Fundamental discovery -- bone fracture

Scientists at UC Santa Barbara have made a groundbreaking discovery about the molecular mechanisms that hold human bone together, revealing a 'glue' that absorbs shock and helps prevent fractures. The findings may lead to new therapies for bone fracture treatment and prevention.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 18, 2005

NMR method rapidly solves 8 target genomic structures

A team of researchers has developed a high-throughput method using GFT-NMR to solve protein structures in just 10-20 days per protein. This breakthrough could lead to major advancements in structural biology, enabling the study of membrane proteins and developing new medicines.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2005

Genetic discovery could lead to drought-resistant plants

Researchers have discovered a key gene controlling how leaves close their surface pores, leading to improved understanding of plant responses to climate. This finding has significant implications for crop breeding and studying evolutionary responses to drought.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 18, 2005

Quantum decoys foil code-breaking attempts

A new technique manipulates laser light to create decoy signals, distracting eavesdroppers and protecting secret messages. This development has immediate commercial applications, improving the security of fibre-optic communications.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Researchers make advances in wind energy generation

A new open loop control system enables efficient energy conversion in low wind speeds, providing a viable alternative for remote locations. The device, designed by Dr. Andy Knight, is built with cheap and easy-to-find components and can produce electric energy from winds as low as 10 km/h.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateJul 18, 2005

Does the language gender system of English and Spanish affect consumers' perception of brands?

This study examines how language gender systems impact brand attitudes and evaluations. In Spanish, consistent formal markers enhance brand recall, while semantic associations drive brand evaluation. In English, formal cues determine initial brand name gender, but congruent semantic associations improve brand evaluations and recall.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 18, 2005

Prevalence of infection in a population can shape parasite virulence

Researchers found that parasite costs and virulence depend on the infection status of competitors, with infected individuals doing better when paired with an infected competitor. High prevalence of infection in a population means healthy larvae face less competition, leading to improved development and survival.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 18, 2005

Foot in mouth: Breaking the rules of social behavior

Researchers found that individuals with lower inhibitory ability were more prone to socially inappropriate behavior, even in low-pressure situations. The study suggests that our ability to suppress true feelings is disrupted under demanding conditions, affecting social etiquette and potentially career advancement.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Quitting smoking could save your teeth, study shows

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that quitting smoking significantly improves gum health for smokers with chronic gum disease. Over a one-year period, one-fifth of the patients who quit smoking experienced improved gum health compared to those who continued to smoke.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal Of Clinical Periodontology·DateJul 18, 2005

Compound from Chinese medicine shows promise in head and neck cancer

Researchers discover compound (-)-gossypol that targets Bcl-xL protein to induce programmed cell death in resistant cancer cells. The study suggests a potential treatment option for head and neck cancer patients who cannot undergo surgery.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateJul 18, 2005

Mouse studies of oseltamivir show promise against H5N1 influenza virus

Researchers tested oseltamivir on mice infected with H5N1 virus, finding that higher doses for longer periods improved survival rates. The study suggests that antiviral drugs like oseltamivir may be effective in preventing and treating avian flu.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJul 18, 2005

Light-sensing protein illuminates sun-loving ocean bacteria

A new study reveals that about 13% of ocean bacteria contain the light-sensitive proteorhodopsin enzyme, which harnesses sunlight's energy to survive in nutrient-poor environments. The discovery also sheds light on the potential for these microorganisms to metabolize sulfur and manufacture retinal, a molecule associated with vision.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 18, 2005

Predicting the outcome of drug-induced liver disease

A study analyzing reports of suspected drug-induced liver injury found that AST and bilirubin levels are key predictors of death or liver transplant in patients with severe drug-induced liver disease. Patients with hepatocellular liver damage had a higher mortality rate, highlighting the importance of monitoring these biomarkers.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Judging brands

Consumers make assumptions about brands based on marketplace stereotypes, with a singular negative experience not weighing negatively on overall perception. The study suggests firms increase diversity in their workforces to capitalize on consumer evaluations

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 18, 2005

New lead reported in tumor angiogenesis

Researchers discovered that tumor cells physically attach to a protein displayed on the surfaces of endothelial cells, triggering angiogenesis. The finding suggests a new anti-angiogenic strategy by blocking both secreted molecules and cell-to-cell contact.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 18, 2005

Methane's impacts on climate change may be twice previous estimates

A NASA study finds that methane's impact on climate change may be significantly higher than previously thought, potentially accounting for a third of the gas's overall effect. The research suggests that methane emissions play a substantial role in increasing tropospheric ozone levels, which contributes to global warming.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Elevated temperature enhances success of viral cancer therapy

Resistant tumor cells can be sensitized to ONYX-015 replication by inducing a heat shock response, which could greatly augment the therapy's clinical utility. This study suggests that clinical strategies focusing on tumor-selective replication would favor the use of ONYX-015.

SourceCell Press·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 18, 2005

Discovering an ecosystem beneath a collapsed Antarctic ice shelf

Researchers uncover a previously unknown ecosystem beneath the Antarctic ice shelf, featuring a thriving clam community and methane-driven chemical life. The discovery provides valuable insights into the dynamics of inhospitable sub-ice settings and may lead to further exploration of remote undersea environments.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalEos·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

UQ researchers tackle emotions head on – at the cellular level

Researchers at the Queensland Brain Institute have identified a key protein involved in regulating emotions and memories. Blocking this protein enhanced connections between cells in the amygdala, potentially leading to novel treatment strategies for anxiety disorders and other mental health conditions.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 18, 2005

Bitter or sweet? The same taste bud can tell the difference

Researchers at Ohio State University found that neuropeptide Y (NPY) and cholecystokinin (CCK) peptides trigger different responses in taste bud cells, helping the brain distinguish between bitter and sweet tastes. The study's findings provide new insights into how our brains process taste information.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Towards a cheap and easy way to monitor HIV/AIDS

A new, low-cost device can accurately count CD4 cells in HIV-infected individuals, enabling early treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes. The portable handheld model is designed for healthcare workers in remote areas, addressing a critical need in low-income countries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 18, 2005

Paramedic training challenges highlighted by University of Pittsburgh study

A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh highlights the challenges faced by paramedics in performing endotracheal intubation, a critical procedure that requires significant skill and experience. The research found that many paramedics perform intubations less than three times per year, with some not performing any at all.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateJul 18, 2005

Discrimination against individuals with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria

A study of Nigerian healthcare professionals found discriminatory attitudes towards patients with HIV/AIDS, including refusal to care for or admit them. The authors highlight inadequate education and resource shortages as contributing factors, and call for targeted interventions to address these issues.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 18, 2005

Space matters: Estimating species diversity in the fossil record

Estimates for the number of living species on earth range from 3.5 million to over 30 million, but only 1.9 million have been classified and described. A new study uses the species-area effect to estimate historical biodiversity in the fossil record, finding a strong relationship between species richness and geographic area.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 18, 2005
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.

Are some medicines so good they should be free? In diabetes, the answer may be yes

A new study suggests that ACE inhibitors, which reduce blood pressure and prevent diabetes-related complications, should be made available at no cost to seniors with diabetes. This could lead to increased use of the medication and significant savings for Medicare, with estimates suggesting $1,606 in lifetime savings per recipient.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 18, 2005

Alone in the aisle

Researchers found that consumers prefer a balance between social interaction and non-interaction, becoming uncomfortable when the experience becomes too intense. The study utilized Social Impact Theory to demonstrate the influence of mere presence on consumer behavior in retail contexts.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 18, 2005