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Science News for June 20, 2005


Human rational and irrational buying behavior is mirrored in monkeys

Researchers found that tufted capuchin monkeys performed similarly to humans in making decisions under uncertainty, but also made similar mistakes. The study sheds light on the evolutionary origins of human economic behavior and its implications for understanding consumer decision-making.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateJun 20, 2005

Inner structure of cells behaves much as molten glass

Cellular behavior exhibits properties of both solid and fluid states, with researchers finding novel nanotechnologies that reveal the fundamental physical laws governing cell mechanics. This discovery offers a new perspective on mechanisms of disease, including airway narrowing in asthma and vessel narrowing in vascular disease.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 20, 2005

Researchers find evidence of photosynthesis deep within the ocean

Researchers have found evidence of photosynthesis deep within the ocean, with green sulfur bacteria thriving near hydrothermal vents. This discovery expands our understanding of life's resilience and potential for existence on other planets.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2005

Study examines barriers to disclosure of childhood abuse

Childhood sexual abuse survivors from families with rigid gender roles and poor communication often faced social isolation, making it difficult for them to disclose the abuse. Only 40% of participants disclosed during childhood, underscoring the need for professionals to cultivate skills to detect subtle cues.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateJun 20, 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.

Fruit fly helps reveal the secrets of the fragile-X-syndrome

A recent study using fruit flies has revealed the role of the dFMRP protein in regulating actin dynamics, which is crucial for neuron formation. This research holds promise for a better understanding of fragile-X-syndrome and brain development.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2005

Separating morning and evening in the circadian clock of mammals

Researchers found that cells in the caudal region of the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) synchronize their gene-expression rhythms to dawn, while those in the rostral SCN exhibit an opposite response. This suggests that synchronous gene expression may be a hallmark of short-day acclimation, while regional de-synchrony increases on long days.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2005
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Does gene therapy work? Nuclear medicine may provide the answers

A recent study suggests that Cyr61 gene therapy may be effective in treating severe myocardial ischemic disease by inducing the growth of new blood vessels. The research found potent stimulation of myocardial angiogenesis, a novel gene therapeutic approach, using Cyr61 in a porcine model of chronic myocardial ischemia.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 20, 2005

Does life exist on other planets?

Researchers argue that oxygen-rich atmospheres are essential for complex life to exist. However, since levels of oxygen won't have had time to develop sufficiently before a sun dies, life may not be able to evolve on planets orbiting short-lived suns.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAstrobiology·DateJun 20, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Eggs from embryonic stem cells could benefit sterile women

Scientists have successfully developed ovarian structures containing eggs from embryonic stem cells, a breakthrough that could provide new hope for infertile couples. The method uses growth factors derived from testicular cells to induce the development of female reproductive cells.

SourceResearch Australia·DateJun 20, 2005

Enzyme family plays role in Alzheimer's: University of Toronto study

Researchers have discovered a new enzyme family that plays a role in Alzheimer's disease, generating toxic molecules called amyloid-beta peptides. The study uses genetically-engineered mice to show that the toxic activity of this enzyme can be separated from its other benign activities.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2005

Stem cells grown in lab mirror normal developmental steps

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully grown human stem cells in a lab setting that mirrors the natural developmental process of blood cells. The study provides unprecedented insight into how stem cells specialize into blood cells, shedding light on the mechanisms behind leukemia and lymphoma.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalBlood·DateJun 20, 2005

PET scans predict development of lung disease following trauma

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) can be predicted using PET scans in trauma patients, allowing for early treatment with aggressive immune modulation therapy. This method has the potential to reduce mortality rates and improve patient outcomes.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 20, 2005

Macromolecules on surface control mobility in phospholipid bilayers

Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that macromolecules on the surface can modify the mobility of underlying lipids in phospholipid bilayers. The adsorption of larger polymers slows down lipid movement, while smaller ones have a minimal effect.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

Women more afraid of dentists than men: University of Toronto study

A nationwide Canadian study found that 5.5% of surveyed Canadians are very afraid of visiting the dentist, leading to over 400,000 people missing annual appointments and 1.5 million cancelled or avoided appointments at some point in their lives. Increased use of general anesthesia or sedation may be a potential remedy for this issue.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnesthesia Progress·DateJun 20, 2005

Tiny zebrafish teaches researchers how to fight off a deadly cancer

Researchers found that zebrafish embryos with human metastatic melanoma cells suppress tumor development, suggesting potential for new cancer therapies. The study provides a powerful model for investigating tumor-microenvironment interactions and reversing the aggressive phenotype of cancer cells.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalDevelopmental Dynamics·DateJun 20, 2005

New magnetic herding technique proposed to manipulate the very small

Researchers propose a new magnetic herding technique that manipulates colloidal objects using magnetism, offering flexibility and convenience over existing methods. The technique has potential applications in biosensors, medical diagnostic devices, and microelectronic components.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2005

Reducing pain in children receiving intravenous cannulation

A randomized controlled trial found that liposomal lidocaine significantly improved cannulation success rates and reduced pain and procedure time in children. The study suggests that liposomal lidocaine can be recommended for cutaneous analgesia in children, providing a promising new approach to pediatric procedural care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

Radiofrequency ablation is effective long-term treatment for kidney tumors

A study published by Massachusetts General Hospital found that radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective long-term treatment for kidney tumors, with success rates of 100% for surface tumors and 78% for central tumors. The procedure has been used to treat over 100 renal cell carcinomas in 85 patients with similar results.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateJun 20, 2005

Study examines characteristics of cancers of the esophagus

Researchers found that patients with Barrett mucosa had tumors diagnosed earlier, were smaller in size, and had a better five-year survival rate. Conversely, adenocarcinomas without detectable Barrett epithelium may be more advanced stages of the same disease, leading to poorer outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJun 20, 2005

Buying homes of tomorrow now saves money, energy

A University of Toronto study found that upgrading to R2000 homes can save up to $818 a year in energy costs. Homeowners can generate an annual cash flow of $423 by increasing mortgage payments, making energy-efficient homes a financially attractive option.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateJun 20, 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.

Babies born after SET do as well as those conceived naturally

A study published by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that babies born after SET (single embryo transfer) in IVF pregnancies have similar birth weights, gestational ages, and stillbirth rates to those conceived naturally. However, SET pregnancies reported more hypertension.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

Scientists create artificial cricket hairs

Researchers have developed artificial sensory hair systems inspired by crickets' cerci, which can detect low-frequency sound with high sensitivity and directivity. The artificial hairs are energy-efficient and show potential applications in various fields such as sensor networks and aerodynamics.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateJun 20, 2005

Adjusting to custody tough for some male young offenders

A study by Carla Cesaroni found that 10-15% of incarcerated male youth experience stress in custody due to vulnerabilities and institutional factors. Institutions can play a critical role in fostering a pro-social environment and improving rehabilitation outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCriminal Justice and Behavior·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

Rice bioengineer wins ASME's Van C. Mow Medal

Athanasiou receives the inaugural award from ASME for his groundbreaking research and mentorship in bioengineering. He has published over 150 papers, holds 25 patents, and founded three companies with FDA-approved products.

SourceRice University·DateJun 20, 2005

A virus-like hitchhiker may trigger bacterial meningitis

Researchers discovered a virus-like bacteriophage inserted into genetic material of hyperinvasive N. meningitidis strains, making them more likely to cause disease. The stowaway may help bacteria enter bloodstream, disrupting immune response.

SourceJournal of Experimental Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 20, 2005

ASU researcher fashions DNA to further advances in nanotechnology

Researchers at Arizona State University have created unique arrays of proteins tethered onto self-assembled DNA nanostructures. By controlling the exact position and location of chemical bases within a synthetic replica of DNA, a novel approach to attaching biomolecules has been achieved.

SourceArizona State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 20, 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.

AERA releases book on teacher education—proposes new research agenda

The book, Studying Teacher Education, examines the links between teacher preparation and student learning, highlighting key findings such as a correlation between math study and high school pupils' math learning. AERA suggests expanding research on teacher quality beyond standardized test scores.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

Unique genetic profile helps over-45s conceive naturally

Researchers identified a unique genetic pattern in 8 women over 45 who conceived spontaneously, involved in apoptosis and DNA repair mechanisms. This genetic predisposition may help protect against age-related ovary damage, allowing some women to remain fertile until menopause.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 20, 2005

Early detection of thick melanomas

The number of new melanoma cases in the US increased 60% from 1988-1991 to 1996-1999, with thick melanomas primarily composed of nodular subtype. The study suggests that current early-detection educational programs may not be effective for detecting this aggressive type of melanoma.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateJun 20, 2005

Violent boys in unsafe conditions less prone to depression

A new study by Cornell University finds that acting violently can be protective against the effects of community violence among adolescent males, but not females. The research suggests that exposure to community violence is a widespread risk factor for emotional and behavioral problems.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Community Psychology·DateJun 20, 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.

Imprinting disorders and ART – world's largest study results are reassuring

A recent study by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that while Beckwith-Widermann syndrome had a significant risk for children conceived through ART, no significantly higher rates of other disorders were observed in children born after ART apart from BWS. The researchers also identified a possible mechanis...

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJun 20, 2005

Classics, biblical studies need new intellectual tools

Biblical scholarship must move beyond 'reverential antiquarianism' to make meaningful connections with modern society. Professor Bradley McLean argues that classical and biblical studies are using outdated approaches, resulting in limited funding and public interest.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPhoenix·DateJun 20, 2005

Elevated CRP can foil diet's ability to lower cholesterol

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that individuals with elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels cannot lower their LDL-cholesterol numbers with a Step 1 diet, even when soy protein is added. The study suggests that habitual consumption of a Step 1 diet may be beneficial for those with low CRP levels but delete...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateJun 20, 2005

Could better mangrove habitats have spared lives in the 2004 tsunami?

Researchers investigated 24 mangrove sites in Sri Lanka and found that mangroves offered protection from tsunami waves, but pre-tsunami degradation had a profound impact on damage. The study highlights the urgent need for early warning systems for mangrove degradation to save human lives and property.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

New topical pain cream reduces pain

A new topical pain cream has been shown to decrease pain during IV cannulation and even facilitate the procedure, leading to improved outcomes for children. The study, conducted at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, found that 74% of children who received the cream successfully had their IV inserted on first attempt.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 20, 2005

Predicting serious cardiac outcomes

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that levels of ischemia-modified albumin provided no useful information in predicting which patients with potential acute coronary syndrome would experience serious cardiac outcomes. The analysis suggests that prognosis may precede diagnosis in these cases.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 20, 2005

Anthrax inhibitors identified by Burnham team

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Institute have identified three lead compounds that inhibit anthrax lethal factor (LF) with high potency and selectivity. The compounds, when combined with antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin, showed a two-fold increase in survival rate for mice infected with anthrax spores.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

Keyhole surgery is a safe option for colon cancer

A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology has found that keyhole surgery is a safe and effective option for treating colon cancer. Patients who underwent keyhole surgery had less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times compared to those who received open surgery.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJun 20, 2005

MIT tissue engineers implant viable, vascularized 3D muscles

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel approach to creating vascularized muscle tissue using a tri-culture scaffold composed of myoblasts, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts. The resulting implants showed improved integration with the host tissues and functioned in living mice and rats.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 20, 2005
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, June 21, 2005

Physicians performing independent medical examinations (IMEs) still owe legal duties to patients, even without traditional relationships. The U.S. health care provider market is a key factor in rising health care costs, with strong market power driving high prices and quantity of medical services.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 2005
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.

Leukemia, infection tied to aging stem cells, Stanford researchers say

Researchers at Stanford University have found a connection between aging, infection, and leukemia in blood-forming stem cells. These cells were found to produce fewer immune cells and turn on cancer-causing genes, contributing to the development of certain types of leukemia.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2005

Tufts researchers shine light on firefly mysteries

Researchers explore whether male fireflies' flashing lights have evolved to provide uninformative cues about male quality. They also examine the energy required for these displays and its potential impact on human communication.

SourceTufts University·DateJun 20, 2005

Pregnant women at risk for injury in summer

A new study published in the Journal of Trauma found that pregnant women are at a higher risk of injury during the summer months due to common activities. The study, led by Dr. Donald Redelmeier, looked at data from Canadian hospitals between 1994 and 2001 and found a 12% increase in trauma cases during the summer.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateJun 20, 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.