Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for June 16, 2008


Blood pressure levels in childhood track into adulthood

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers found a consistent relationship between childhood blood pressure levels and adult blood pressure. Children with elevated blood pressure often grow up to become adults with elevated blood pressure.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateJun 16, 2008

Age at puberty linked to mother's prenatal diet

A study published by The Endocrine Society found that a mother's prenatal diet high in fat can lead to an early onset of puberty in her child, increasing the risk of adulthood obesity. The research also showed alterations in sex hormones and higher body fat levels in adult offspring.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 16, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Computer predicts anti-cancer molecules

Researchers developed a computer-based method called CoMet to analyze cellular activity and predict anti-tumor activity of metabolites. The tool identified nine metabolites that exhibit anticancer properties when added to leukemia cells.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Cancer·DateJun 16, 2008

Diabetes drug slows early-onset puberty in girls

A study found that metformin treatment delayed menstruation and decreased insulin resistance in young girls at risk of early puberty. The treatment also reduced abdominal fat and improved cholesterol levels, lowering the risk of future heart disease.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 16, 2008

Olfactory bulb size may change as sense of smell changes

Research reveals that olfactory bulb volume changes in response to individual sense of smell changes. Patients with reduced or lost sense of smell show varying increases and decreases in olfactory bulb size. The correlation between olfactory bulb volume and function may aid in predicting disease prognosis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJun 16, 2008

Health varies widely across different regions of Mexico

A new study found that Mexico's southern region has the highest rates of infectious and nutritional diseases, as well as non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. The study also identified being overweight, high blood glucose, and alcohol use as major risk factors for these diseases.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008

New molecular imaging techniques may lead to advances in disease treatment

Researchers developed a promising new technique to track genetically engineered cells using antibody fragments as reporter genes, which could advance disease treatment. The technique offers several advantages over existing methods, including improved specificity and accuracy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Better treatments for malaria in pregnancy are needed

A recent study highlights the need for better treatments for malaria in pregnancy, where the use of new medicines is often restricted due to limited clinical data. The authors argue that this 'catch-22' situation can lead to inferior drugs being prescribed, putting pregnant women's lives at risk.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008

The APCs of nerve cell function

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identify adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) as a central organizer of neuronal cholinergic synapse assembly. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms directing synapse formation, potentially shedding new insights into learning and memory disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and schi...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalMolecular and Cellular Neuroscience·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

A trio of super-Earths

A team of European astronomers has discovered a triple system of super-Earths around the star HD 40307 using the HARPS instrument. The planets have masses between 4.2 and 9.4 times that of Earth, and orbit the star with periods ranging from 4.3 to 20.4 days.

SourceESO·DateJun 16, 2008

Society's attitudes have little impact on choice of sexual partner

A study of over 7,600 Swedish twins found that genetic factors and the individual's unique environment play a significant role in determining their choice of sexual partner. The results suggest that familial and public attitudes have a minimal impact on this decision.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateJun 16, 2008

Aging and bone mineral density

Older adults experience increased bone loss, but antiresorptive medications can attenuate this process. Researchers found that even in women aged 50-54, bone loss was only 1.3% per year.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 16, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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 study shows potential to treat or prevent viral cancers

A new study presents radioimmunotherapy targeting viral antigens as a novel option to treat or prevent many viral cancers. The therapy offers 'exquisite specificity' in targeting cancer cells expressing viral antigens, allowing for more precise diagnosis and treatment.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 16, 2008

New test could aid children suffering from reflux disease

A new nuclear medicine imaging test, scintigraphy, has been shown to be highly effective in detecting gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children with respiratory problems. The test detected GERD in 66.6% of children with asthma or lower respiratory tract infections, outperforming traditional barium X-ray technology.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008

Abortion drug's off-label use may have led to deaths

Researchers found that misoprostol suppresses key immune responses and allows deadly infection to occur. The study has implications for understanding rare but life-threatening infections during pregnancy. More than a half-million women have taken the two-drug combination safely since its FDA approval in 2000.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Project succeeding to relocate Caspian terns

Researchers at Oregon State University successfully relocated Caspian terns to a new nesting site at Crump Lake, finding over 135 nesting pairs. The move aims to reduce the birds' impact on threatened and endangered salmon populations in the Columbia River estuary.

SourceOregon State University·DateJun 16, 2008

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 17, 2008, issue

Research highlights the association between diabetes and hearing loss, as well as the potential health benefits of moderate coffee consumption. A new study also examines the cost-effectiveness of HIV screening in patients over 55 years old, finding it a viable option for this age group.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008

Nanotechnology, biomolecules and light unite to 'cook' cancer cells

Researchers use monoclonal antibodies attached to carbon nanotubes that heat up when exposed to near-infrared light, killing cancer cells. The technique shows promise for targeting specific sites on lymphoma cells and potentially delivering a deadly payload.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2008

Molecular imaging sheds new light on progression of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers used molecular imaging to monitor Alzheimer's disease progression, identifying those at risk and assessing therapy effectiveness. The study found that beta-amyloid imaging can detect AD earlier and distinguish it from other dementias.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Red wine's resveratrol may help battle obesity

Researchers found that resveratrol inhibits the growth of pre-fat cells and prevents them from converting into mature fat cells. Resveratrol also reduces production of cytokines linked to obesity-related disorders, such as diabetes and clogged coronary arteries.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 16, 2008

Hot flashes underreported and linked to forgetfulness

A study by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago found that women experience underreported hot flashes and these symptoms are linked to poor verbal memory. Objective measurement of hot flashes reveals a strong relationship between the number of hot flashes and memory performance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMenopause·DateJun 16, 2008

Team finds key mechanism of DDT resistance in malarial mosquitoes

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a key detoxifying protein in Anopheles mosquitoes that metabolizes DDT, a synthetic insecticide used to control malaria-spreading mosquitoes. The protein CYP6Z1 belongs to a class of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases that play key roles in insect defenses against plant toxins.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

First semiconductor-based PET scanner demonstrates potential to aid in early diagnosis of disease

The first semiconductor-based PET scanner demonstrates improved spatial resolution and reduced noise, enabling better characterization of diseases such as partial epilepsy and nasopharyngeal cancer. This technology holds promise for advancing early-stage diagnoses and assessing patient responses to therapies.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008

Perfecting a solar cell by adding imperfections

Carbon nanotubes have been engineered to improve the properties of solar cells by introducing defects, resulting in increased catalytic activity and reduced costs. The new material has the potential to replace traditional layers used in solar cells, leading to improved performance and more affordable energy technologies.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 16, 2008

Complex changes in the brain's vascular system occur after menopause

Researchers at the University of Missouri discovered significant changes in the brain's vascular system after menopause. The study advises extreme caution when using estrogen-based hormone therapies due to potential complications and adverse effects on vascular health.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCell Cycle·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Racial disparities reduced in injury related mortality

Injury-related deaths among black males ages 15 to 24 decreased by 24% from 1999 to 2005, while injury death rates among white males increased by 7%. This reduction was attributed to a decrease in motor vehicle crashes and firearm suicides among black males.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalInjury Prevention·DateJun 16, 2008

Largest ever Canadian study on osteoporosis informs health policy

The Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study (CaMos) reveals that for women, menopause marks a critical period of decreased bone mineral density, with an average loss of 6.8% over 5 years in the hip. In men, BMD decreases more gradually, starting earlier around age 40, with a second period of decline after age 70.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 16, 2008

Gesture interface device developed by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev researchers have developed a hand gesture recognition system that enables doctors to manipulate digital images during surgeries by motioning instead of touching screens. This system reduces sterility risks and prevents the spread of infection, which is particularly important in hospital operating rooms.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateJun 16, 2008

New intrusion tolerance software fortifies server security

The Self Cleansing Intrusion Tolerance (SCIT) technology developed by George Mason University researchers limits the damage caused by unknown cyber-attacks by restricting exposure time. By periodically cleansing servers, SCIT reduces the risk of data theft and provides an additional layer of defense against intrusions.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJun 16, 2008

A promising step towards more effective hydrogen storage

A team of international researchers led by Professor Rajeev Ahuja has discovered an atomic-level mechanism for releasing hydrogen from magnesium nanoparticles, which could lead to more efficient hydrogen storage. The finding opens up new possibilities for fuel cells using hydrogen as a clean and environmentally friendly energy source.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

SNM image of the year: Molecular imaging, from head to toe

Two images, one showing neuroendocrine cancer relapse and the other a foot infection, demonstrate molecular imaging's ability to provide precise snapshots of disease anatomy. Imaging techniques are increasingly being used in combination to improve treatment planning and patient outcomes.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 16, 2008

Pharmacology of crystal meth

Research into crystal meth addiction has been limited to animal studies, but potential therapeutic agents targeting dopamine and non-dopamine systems are in clinical testing. The article highlights the need for accelerated clinical trials to address the public health importance of this issue.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 16, 2008

Researchers are a quick study when assessing drugs for Alzheimer's disease

Scientists used Exploratory Investigational New Drug (ExpIND) to evaluate four 18F-labeled imaging agents in patients with Alzheimer's disease, identifying the best detector of amyloid plaque deposits. The study suggested that ExpIND could speed up the development of new radiopharmaceuticals while ensuring patient safety.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 16, 2008

Geisinger study: Inflammatory disease causes blindness

Research shows that people with temporal arteritis, an inflammatory artery disease, are three times more likely to experience blindness due to swollen arteries restricting blood flow. The disease is often accompanied by symptoms like headaches and jaw soreness, and if left untreated can lead to severe vision loss or stroke.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalJournal of Clinical Pathology·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

How safe are medical cannabinoids?

A systematic review found short-term medical cannabinoid use linked to higher rates of non-serious adverse events, particularly dizziness. However, longer-term effects in chronic illness remain unexplored.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 16, 2008

Adult stem cells improve fracture healing

Researchers found adult stem cells can improve fracture healing by increasing bone and cartilage formation at the fracture site. This approach may lead to a new treatment for people suffering from non-healing fractures, which can cause pain, deformities, and even death.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 16, 2008

HIV screening found cost-effective in older adults

Researchers recommend HIV screening for most adults aged 55 to 75 due to its cost-effectiveness and potential to prolong life. The study found that screening in this age group could add half a year to the life of an HIV-positive patient under 65 and four months for those over 65.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008

New possibilities for breast cancer treatment on the horizon

The new scanner enables physicians to determine stages of breast cancer in patients already diagnosed, rather than as a mammography screening tool. It also helps plan breast cancer surgeries and detect early whether drug treatments are effective.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Michigan Tech scientist models molecular switch

Researchers have developed a model to explain the mechanism behind the molecular switch, which could fit more than a trillion switches onto a centimeter-square chip. The model reveals a quantum phase transition that could enable the creation of a new type of switch with promise as a digital electronics foundation.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 16, 2008

Team discovers new inhibitors of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a new family of agents that inhibit the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells. These compounds specifically target the binding of estrogen-receptor complex to regulatory regions of genes, effectively retarding protein production and cell proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJun 16, 2008

When the powerless rise up

Research by Professor Adam Galinsky and colleagues reveals that legitimate power leads to increased action, while illegitimate power motivates resistance. The study's findings have significant implications for our understanding of power dynamics and behavior.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Florida researchers receive JDRF 'Excellence in Clinical Research Award'

A team of Florida scientists, including Mark Atkinson, Michael Haller, and Desmond Schatz, have received the sixth annual Excellence in Clinical Research Award from JDRF International. The award recognizes their innovative work on using umbilical cord blood stem cells and drug treatments to prevent and reverse type 1 diabetes.

SourceJDRF·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Hip replacement improves function, saves money, at any age

Researchers found that total hip replacements improve physical functioning and increase ability to care for oneself in seniors with osteoarthritis. The study also showed cost savings for the healthcare system due to reduced long-term disability costs.

SourceInHealth: The Institute for Health Technology Studies·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 16, 2008

Hearing loss is common in people with diabetes

Adults with diabetes are more likely to experience hearing loss due to the disease's impact on nerves and blood vessels in the inner ear. Researchers discovered a strong association between high-frequency sound sensitivity and diabetes, which may be linked to nerve damage and increased risk of heart disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008

Researchers witness assembly of molecules critical to protein function

A Virginia Tech research group has isolated proteins responsible for iron-sulfur cluster assembly and witnessed their interactions within a cell. This breakthrough provides insight into the sequential steps of the process, helping to explain how molecules are synthesized and distributed in cells.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2008

Aquatic insect 'family trees' provide clues about sensitivity to pollution

A North Carolina State University study found that examining an insect's 'family tree' can help predict a cousin insect's level of tolerance to pollutants. The research used 21 species of insects from different families to test their sensitivity to cadmium, a toxic metal.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Heightened sense of taste can promote weight loss

Researchers found that overweight individuals who used calorie-free tastants to flavor their food lost an average of 30.5 pounds over six months, compared to just 2 pounds for those who didn't use the tastants. This suggests that enhancing one's sense of taste can lead to weight loss by reducing hunger.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 16, 2008

Discovery will assist treatment and research into fatal brain disorder

Research using Magnetic Resonance Imaging technology has confirmed Huntington's disease before symptoms appear, allowing for early treatment. The study identified extensive white matter degeneration, a hallmark of the disease, which can help explain its complex motor and cognitive problems.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalBrain Research Reviews·DateJun 16, 2008

Mini subs to probe odd structures in BC lake

Researchers are using single-person submersibles to collect samples from a lake in BC that may hold vital clues to the history of life on Earth. The dives aim to develop a baseline understanding of life on our planet, with potential applications for future Mars missions.

SourceMcMaster University·DateJun 16, 2008

New study: Hearing impairment is common among adults with diabetes

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that hearing impairment is common among adults with diabetes, affecting up to 54.1% of those with the condition. The study suggests that high blood sugar levels may damage the inner ear and nerves, leading to hearing loss.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Children learn smart behaviors without knowing what they know

Researchers at Ohio State University found that children can learn flexible behavior and make correct choices without realizing why, challenging traditional theories. The study used a computer game to test children's ability to choose objects based on shape or color in different contexts.

SourceOhio State University·JournalChild Development·DateJun 16, 2008

Novel compound may treat acute diarrhea

Scientists have discovered a novel compound that targets acute secretory diarrhea caused by E. coli and other enterotoxigenic strains of bacteria, reducing fluid secretion without apparent toxicity. The compound could be an inexpensive, easy-to-take treatment for debilitating illnesses leading to child deaths in developing countries.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2008

A single VSOP can do a 'proton' magic!

A single VSOP protein can carry protons, regulating pH conditions during pathogen removal, and may aid in designing new medications for innate immunity enhancement.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2008
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.

Drink and drugs fuel Scottish suicide and homicide rates

Research published by The University of Manchester's National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide by People with Mental Illness reveals a significant link between alcohol and drug misuse and Scottish suicide and homicide rates. The study found that Scots are almost twice as likely to kill or take their own lives compared to ...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateJun 16, 2008

Study examines normal hair loss in men without evidence of baldness

Researchers found that performing a standardized 60-second hair count is a reliable method for assessing hair shedding in healthy men. The study found consistent results across age groups, with an average loss of 10 hairs per minute, and demonstrated low intrapatient variability.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJun 16, 2008

Medicines derived from cannabis: a review of adverse events

Researchers found an 86% increase in non-serious adverse events among patients treated with cannabinoids, mainly affecting the nervous system. Cannabinoids are used to treat chronic pain and stimulate appetite, but physicians must weigh benefits against possible side effects.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 16, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Fair trade

Researchers have found a way to effectively recycle toxic chlorinated compounds using a lanthanum chloride catalyst. The new reaction enables the exchange of chlorine atoms for hydrogen atoms, producing desired products without byproducts.

SourceWiley·DateJun 16, 2008