Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 7, 2005


Scientists learn to predict protein-stabilizing ability of small molecules

Researchers at UTMB use thermodynamic calculations to predict the ability of various osmolytes to protect proteins in cells under stress. This technique has significant implications for understanding protein folding and unfolding processes in disorders like Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2005

IODP Tahiti sea level expedition gets underway

Scientists on the IODP Tahiti expedition are analyzing fossil corals to study past global sea level changes and their impact on climate. The research aims to understand the effects of human activity on Earth's environment by examining coral records from a tectonically stable region.

SourceIntegrated Ocean Drilling Program Management International·DateOct 7, 2005

Simulations predict savings from more airtight buildings

Researchers simulated conditions of three building types in six cities and found that improved air tightness would result in energy savings ranging from 9-37%. The study suggests that increased airtightness can lead to smaller but still significant cost savings in warmer climates.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 7, 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.

Gold nanoparticles show potential for noninvasive cancer treatment

Researchers have discovered that gold nanoparticles can selectively target and kill cancer cells by absorbing light, offering a potential solution for early detection and treatment of various cancers. The technique is simple, inexpensive, and non-toxic to human cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCancer Letters·DateOct 7, 2005

Researchers reveal basis for debilitating hereditary disease

Scientists generate 3D image of coproporphyrinogen oxidase (CPO) at atomic level, shedding light on mutations causing hereditary coproporphyria. The study provides insights into the heme biosynthesis pathway and its role in rare diseases.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2005

Fat rat enables studies of debilitating vascular disease

A mutant rat model is being used to study the early vascular changes caused by obesity, which can lead to peripheral vascular disease. The research aims to prevent this condition and improve quality of life for those affected.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateOct 7, 2005

National Institutes of Health renews Genomatix License

The NIH has renewed its license with Genomatix, expanding the contract to include Microarray analysis Package ChipInspector. This move strengthens research capabilities in gene expression and regulation, facilitating high-level scientific results.

SourceGenomatix Software GmbH·DateOct 7, 2005

Better measurements reveal seasonal changes in sulfur

Researchers from UMD and NIST developed a new analytical tool based on thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) to study seasonal changes in sulfur particulate composition. The technique requires much smaller snow samples than standard analysis techniques, allowing for more precise measurements of sulfur isotopes.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 7, 2005
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Limiting resident physician work-hours might save money

Reducing resident physician work-hours may lead to significant cost savings, with estimates suggesting $673 million to $1.1 billion in annual savings nationwide. To break even or save money, however, harmful errors would need to decrease by 19-31%.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 7, 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.

Having inaccurate self-insights has serious consequences

A Cornell University expert warns that people's capacity to evaluate themselves is usually modest, leading to overinflated views of expertise and character. This can have far-reaching implications in various aspects of life. The expert suggests that people should be more cautious about what they know and do not know about themselves.

SourceCornell University·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateOct 7, 2005

I think, therefore I fall

A woman's fear of falling led to a psychological disorder affecting her ability to walk, but treatment helped improve her bearing and mobility. After discovering the condition was not physically related, she began walking again after six months of physical therapy and reduced medication.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCognitive and Behavioral Neurology·DateOct 7, 2005

Osteoporosis Patient Societies win US$ 126,000 in grants

Five organizations have won US$10,000 each for imaginative education projects focused on osteoporosis prevention and management. These grants will support public education materials, campaigns, and awareness initiatives across Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Panama, and Taiwan.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateOct 7, 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.

Groups join forces for DHS rescue robot standards

The project aims to develop comprehensive US&R standards for rescue robots, including performance requirements and tests for certification. Over 13 different robot types and over 100 individual performance requirements have been identified.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 7, 2005

NIST method improves reliability of GPS clocks

A statistical method developed by NIST makes analyzing satellite-borne time signals faster and easier, enabling accurate location and distance measurements. The method also accelerates the evaluation of clocks during satellite construction, improving GPS reliability and accuracy.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 7, 2005