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Science News for August 2, 2010


New methods, new math speed detection of drug-resistant malaria

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed new techniques to identify drug resistance in malaria, enabling faster detection and saving lives. By using genetic assays and mathematical analysis, they can track drug immunity of the deadliest form of the disease in just days, far cheaper than traditional methods.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBMC Genetics·DateAug 2, 2010

Cancer-causing bacterium targets tumor-suppressor protein

Researchers have discovered that Helicobacter pylori's CagA protein disables the tumor suppressor protein RUNX3 in host cells, leading to gastric cancer. The interaction between CagA and RUNX3 causes degradation of the protein via ubiquitination, promoting aberrant cell growth and cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalOncogene·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Researchers find universal law for material evolution

Researchers at Northwestern University found a universal law for material evolution, allowing them to predict the dynamics of phase break-up in various materials. The study used 4-D synchrotron-based X-ray tomographic microscopy to observe the evolution of rod-shaped phases during the break-up process.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 2, 2010

American Chemical Society names 2010 Fellows

The American Chemical Society has named 192 distinguished scientists as 2010 ACS Fellows, including professionals from top institutions. The recognition honors their achievements in chemistry and contributions to the scientific community.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 2, 2010

Research defines timeframes, factors to deem early stage lung cancer cured

Research published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology defines timeframes for declaring early stage lung cancer cured. Patients with stage IA NSCLC without vascular invasion can be considered cured after five years, while those with vascular invasion require longer follow-up until at least nine years.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

New technique in robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy

A new technique preserves periprostatic anatomy by keeping intact the pubovesical complex, achieving a higher rate of urinary continence after radical prostatectomy. The study reports a 25.7% weighted mean continence rate immediately after catheter removal.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·JournalEuropean Urology·DateAug 2, 2010

Study finds deep, open ocean is vastly under-explored

The deep open ocean is vastly under-explored due to the long-held belief that life in this area was confined primarily to the surface and near the sea bed. New research mapped marine species records and found most knowledge comes from shallow waters or ocean floor, revealing uncounted animals living without hard surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 2, 2010

What the doctor prescribes: Customized medical-image databases

A customized medical-image database is being developed with input from dermatologists and incorporating novel eye-tracking techniques to identify critical regions in images. The project aims to bridge the semantic gap in content-based image retrieval by leveraging end-user knowledge and expertise.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateAug 2, 2010

Oxygen fuels the fires of time

Scientists from The Field Museum and Royal Holloway University of London have discovered that high atmospheric oxygen concentrations in the past led to the evolution of new plant groups, such as conifers and flowering plants. This, in turn, may have promoted large and frequent wildfires, with implications for Earth's climate history.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Viral infection predicts heart transplant loss in children

Researchers found that viral infection of the heart is a predictor of heart transplant failure in young children and adolescents. The study suggests that rigorously screening transplant patients for viral DNA and RNA, and using intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, may improve organ survival.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 2, 2010

Students get a feel for soil-water relationships

A simple and inexpensive demonstration of soil water retention and field capacity helps students visualize and understand these concepts. The demonstration uses PVC rings, a trashcan, and a scale, illustrating the influence of soil texture, structure, and depth to the water table on soil water content.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education·DateAug 2, 2010
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Pilot safety protocol could help dentists reduce errors

A pilot-dentist duo proposes adapting airline crew resource management principles to dental offices, aiming to reduce human errors and improve patient safety. By implementing standardized safety procedures and empowering team members with CRM checklists, dentists can significantly reduce complications and deaths in surgical settings.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateAug 2, 2010

Women attracted to men in red, research shows

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General found that wearing red or being bordered by the color increases a man's attractiveness and sexual desirability among women. The researchers attribute this effect to the cultural association between red and high status, as well as biological roots in human behavior.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateAug 2, 2010

Alphavirus-based vaccine may slow some cancers

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed an experimental vaccine that stimulates an immune response against tumor growth. In a Phase I/II study, the vaccine showed promising results in patients with advanced lung, colon, breast, and pancreatic cancers.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 2, 2010

Boosting the efficacy of anticancer vaccines

Researchers developed an alphavirus vector to overcome neutralizing antibodies and Tregs, inducing clinically relevant immune responses in patients with metastatic cancer. Repeated administration led to longer overall patient survival, making the approach a promising therapeutic option.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Drug trials funded by industry are more likely to publish favorable results

A comprehensive review of 546 clinical trials found industry-funded trials reporting positive outcomes 85% of the time, compared to 50% for government-funded and 72% for non-profit funded trials. The researchers call for greater transparency in study protocols to reduce bias and publication bias.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 2, 2010

Purdue-IU team uncovers potential prostate cancer marker

A Purdue University-led team has found a molecular compound that appears to be useful in identifying cancerous and precancerous tissue in the prostate. The compound, cholesterol sulfate, is absent in healthy prostate tissue but present in prostate cancer tumors, making it a potential marker for the disease.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 2, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sociologist finds combat veterans face more lifelong socioeconomic challenges

Research suggests that combat experiences can set the trajectory of a veteran's life, leading to increased rates of disability and unemployment. Alair MacLean found that combat veterans are more likely to be disabled and unemployed in their mid-20s and throughout their worklife.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateAug 2, 2010

Eruptive characteristics of Oregon's Mount Hood analyzed

A new study by Oregon State University and the University of California at Davis has found that a mixing of two types of magma is crucial to Mount Hood's eruptions, occurring weeks or months before the eruption. This behavior is distinct from other Cascade Range volcanoes, including Mount St. Helens.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

People reject popular opinions if they already hold opposing views, study finds

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that people grow more confident in their beliefs when they learn a majority of others disagree with them. The study suggests that people who have developed strong opinions may become doubly sure they are right after learning the opposing view.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 2, 2010

Pancreatic cancers use fructose, common in the Western diet, to fuel their growth

A study by UCLA researchers found that pancreatic cancer cells can metabolize fructose to generate nucleic acids, driving cell division and proliferation. The study suggests that high fructose corn syrup consumption may be linked to increased cancer risk, highlighting the need for reduced refined sugar intake.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 2, 2010

The boundless promise -- and mystery -- of glass

Professor Minoru Tomozawa has developed a new technique using infrared spectroscopy to determine the fictive temperature of glass, enabling more accurate prediction of its properties. This breakthrough has significant implications for glass manufacturers and researchers alike.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Pathological internet use among teens may lead to depression

A study of 1,041 Chinese teens found that pathological internet use was associated with a higher risk of developing depression. The research suggests that early intervention and prevention strategies targeting at-risk groups could reduce the burden of depression on young people.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 2, 2010

Novel bee venom derivative forms a nanoparticle 'smart bomb' to target cancer cells

A peptide derived from bee venom can deliver liposomes bearing drugs or diagnostic dyes to specific cells or tissues, improving the effectiveness of cancer treatment. This 'smart bomb' technology may help design personalized treatment regimens that can selectively target tumors and other diseases.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 2, 2010

UM School of Medicine finds mentorship program successfully fights childhood obesity

A new study from the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that a mentorship program paired healthy young adults with urban middle school students helped them adopt healthy habits, active lifestyles and a healthy weight. The program, called Challenge!, showed promise as a way to have a major impact on children's lives.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Is biochar the answer for ag?

A long-term study found that biochar can reduce nitrous oxide emissions by up to 73% and ammonium leaching by up to 94%, with reductions occurring over time due to 'ageing' of the biochars in soil. The research highlights the potential of biochar as a tool to mitigate climate change.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 2, 2010

Generation gaps at work not just about age, study says

A study by the University of Illinois research team found that generational gaps in workplaces cannot be solved with broad stereotypes or age-based solutions. The researchers identified three primary factors that contribute to generational factions: significant life events, work tenure, and job duties.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateAug 2, 2010

Study finds permafrost warming, monitoring improving

A team of scientists has found that permafrost temperatures have warmed by as much as two degrees Celsius over the past 20-30 years. The expansion of the monitoring network allows for large-scale analysis and potential early warnings for policymakers on climate change impacts in permafrost regions.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalPermafrost and Periglacial Processes·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Lung cancer survivors experience long-term effects of breathlessness

A study of 342 early-stage lung cancer survivors found that nearly 60% experienced long-term dyspnea, with associated risk factors including reduced physical activity and depression. Targeting post-treatment rehabilitation strategies to improve breathlessness may be effective in improving outcomes.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateAug 2, 2010

The taste of quinine: It's in your bitter genes

A recent study published in Human Molecular Genetics found that genetic variation in bitter taste receptors predicts a person's perception of quinine's bitterness. This suggests that individual differences in how people experience quinine's bitterness are related to underlying genetic differences.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateAug 2, 2010

Our brain can be taught to control cravings, Yale researcher finds

A new study by Yale University researcher Hedy Kober shows that smokers can control their cravings with the help of cognitive strategies, increasing activity in the prefrontal cortex and decreasing craving-related brain activity. Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be an effective tool in treating substance use disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Exercise and caloric restriction rejuvenate synapses in lab mice

Harvard researchers have found that exercise and caloric restriction can reverse the deterioration of nerve connections in older mice, a potential explanation for their age-related benefits. The study reveals that these lifestyle factors can attenuate or even reverse the decline in synapses, which are crucial for brain function.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2010

Stress hormones help lizards escape from fire ants

Research by Tracy Langkilde reveals that stress hormones increase energy mobilization in lizards, enabling them to flee from fire ants. Elevated glucocorticoid levels in affected species facilitate adaptive responses, improving survival rates and reproductive success.

SourcePenn State·DateAug 2, 2010

Relatives of individuals with autism tend to display abnormal eye movements

A study found that relatives of individuals with autism exhibit abnormal eye movements and other sensorimotor impairments, similar to those seen in individuals with autism. These abnormalities are associated with brain pathways important for language skills, motor control, and executive function.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Brain may age faster in people whose hearts pump less blood

A new study found that people whose hearts pump less blood have brains that appear older, with decreased brain volume and atrophy. This association was seen even in those without cardiovascular disease, suggesting a link between cardiac index and brain health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 2, 2010

Researchers develop advanced search tool to help physician's sort and retrieve vital EMR data

Researchers have developed an advanced search tool called QPID to assist radiologists in extracting useful data from patients' electronic medical records. The system has already been implemented at Massachusetts General Hospital and is expected to have a significant impact on various departments within the hospital and outpatient clinics.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateAug 2, 2010

Certain meat components may increase bladder cancer risk

A recent study suggests that consuming meat related compounds, particularly those found in red and processed meats, may be linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer. The researchers found that individuals with the highest intake of nitrate and nitrite had a significantly higher risk of developing bladder cancer.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers evaluated the long-term effects of low-carbohydrate versus low-fat diets on weight loss, serum lipid concentrations, and bone mineral density. Both groups achieved significant weight loss, but the low-carb diet produced greater increases in plasma HDL cholesterol concentration.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 2, 2010

Sisters protect siblings from depression, study shows

New research from Brigham Young University finds that having a sister protects adolescents from feelings of loneliness and promotes charitable attitudes. The study also found that loving siblings foster good deeds, such as helping others, more than loving parents do.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateAug 2, 2010

'Ribbit Radio' shows frog population estimates are likely flawed

A new study by North Carolina State University researchers suggests that the largest amphibian monitoring program in the US may have inaccuracies in its data, leading to overestimates of frog populations. The issue lies in observer error, as volunteers report hearing species they don't actually hear, which can skew population estimates.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEcology·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Why are male spiders small while females are giant?

Researchers found that small male spiders can carry out the 'bridging' maneuver, a common mode of locomotion for vegetation-inhabiting spiders. This efficiency allows them to have more mating opportunities and compete better for receptive females, leading to selective pressure for smaller size.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateAug 2, 2010

New study examines effects of drought in the Amazon

A new study examining the effects of drought in the Amazon found that relatively undisturbed forests are tolerant of seasonal drought. The research used remote sensing and field-based studies to demonstrate this resilience and identified potential mechanisms controlling vegetation productivity across the Amazon Basin.

SourceWoodwell Climate Research Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Zinc finger nuclease, immunoprecipitation methods featured in Cold Spring Harbor Protocols

A protocol for detecting targeted chromosomal deletions induced by zinc finger nucleases allows researchers to estimate the frequency of ZFN-induced genomic deletions using PCR-based methods. Immunoprecipitation is also optimized with detailed instructions for lysis conditions, protease inhibitor cocktails, and general preparation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCold Spring Harbor Protocols·DateAug 2, 2010

Expectations may affect placebo response in patients with Parkinson's disease

Individuals with Parkinson's disease who were told they had a higher chance of receiving an active drug showed a stronger neurochemical response to placebo. The expectation of symptom improvement is associated with the release of dopamine in patients with Parkinson's disease and can affect motor performance.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 2, 2010

Ecological scientists assess the fundamentals of animal behavior

Researchers studied plant toxin detection in bushbabies, lizard defense from invasive fire ants, and antioxidant defenses in barn swallows exposed to radiation. These studies highlight the importance of understanding animal behavior and adaptations to environmental changes.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateAug 2, 2010

University of Colorado School of Medicine study: Mental health outcomes in children in foster care improved with mentoring, skills development

A University of Colorado School of Medicine study found that incorporating mentoring and group skill-building intervention programs for children in foster care may help improve mental health outcomes. The study demonstrated that treatment groups reported fewer symptoms of depression, dissociation, and posttraumatic stress, and better q...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Entomological Society of America names 2010 Fellows

The ESA has elected ten new Fellows for their outstanding research, teaching, and extension work in entomology. Dr. Gary Blomquist and Dr. David Boethel are recognized for their research on pheromones and insect IPM, respectively.

SourceEntomological Society of America·DateAug 2, 2010

Research shows what you say about others says a lot about you

A study by Wake Forest University psychologist Dustin Wood found that people's positive ratings of others are linked to their own well-being and personality traits. Positive perceptions of others are associated with being happy, kind-hearted, and emotionally stable.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 2, 2010

New carbon dioxide emissions model

The new model incorporates data on the carbon cycle, including ocean and forest absorption and release of CO2, to simulate future changes in global climate and carbon dioxide emissions. By reducing emissions by 56% by 2050, global warming would remain under the two-degree threshold until 2100.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalClimatic Change·DateAug 2, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Socioeconomic status predicts survival of Canadian cancer patients

A new study found that socioeconomic status predicts survival of Canadian cancer patients, with those from poorer backgrounds facing higher mortality rates. The study also suggests that factors such as cancer biology and access to treatment may play a role in these disparities.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateAug 2, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists discover how neuroglobin protects against Alzheimer's

Scientists have discovered that neuroglobin protects cells from stroke damage, amyloid toxicity, and lack of oxygen. High levels of neuroglobin in brain neurons may buffer them against the effects of Alzheimer's disease-causing protein accumulation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAPOPTOSIS·DateAug 2, 2010

Keeping patients 'in good hands'

A literature review confirms that hand therapy addresses key factors in hand injury recovery, including swelling control, wound management, range of motion, strengthening of the hand, and work conditioning. Finding a qualified therapist is essential for optimal outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateAug 2, 2010

Mallory and Irvine: Did extreme weather cause their disappearance?

A team of scientists believes extreme weather may have caused the disappearance of George Mallory and Andrew Irvine during their historic 1924 Everest expedition. Researchers analyzed newly uncovered historical data, including barometric pressure measurements, to conclude that a very intense storm likely contributed to their death.

SourceWiley·JournalWeather·DateAug 2, 2010

The evolutionary origins of coral sex

Ancient corals consisted of mostly separate sexes and required a brooding period to evolve into spawning hermaphrodites. The evolutionary origins of coral sex are complex, likely related to the challenges of shallow tropical reefs.

SourceUniversity of Guam·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Hungry children and youth have more health problems

A recent study found that hungry children are more likely to experience poor health, with repeated episodes of hunger being particularly toxic. The association holds even after adjusting for other factors such as low income and lack of home ownership, highlighting the need for policy interventions to address food insecurity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 2, 2010

New catalyst of platinum nanoparticles could lead to conk-out free, stable fuel cells

Scientists at Cornell University have discovered a new catalyst that could make fuel cells more stable and conk-out free, using platinum nanoparticles on titanium oxide with added tungsten. The material is more stable and less expensive than pure platinum, allowing it to work with hydrogen fuels containing up to 2% carbon monoxide.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 2, 2010

Mayo Clinic finds withdrawing ventricular assist device support ethical

Patients with severe heart failure who request withdrawal of ventricular assist device (VAD) support have the right to do so, according to Mayo Clinic investigators. The VAD is a long-term treatment option for patients with severe heart failure, but some experience complications that lead them to request its removal.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateAug 2, 2010

UH salt marsh expert studies damage to Gulf Coast

A University of Houston researcher is using a vacuum device to study the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on insects and spiders in salt marshes along the Gulf Coast. The goal is to understand how the food web is structured and affected by the oil spill.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Body weight and glaucoma risk; new 'map' for severe myopia

A new study found that higher body weight is significantly linked to reduced risk of normal tension glaucoma (NTG) in postmenopausal women, but not in men. Severe myopia may be predicted by a specific map that identifies patients at risk of vision loss.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Synthetic bone graft recruits stem cells for faster bone healing

Researchers have created a material for bone grafts that attracts stem cells and growth factors to promote bone regrowth and integration. The synthetic graft heals similarly to natural bone implants in animal tests, suggesting potential as a replacement for traditional grafts.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2010

Sociological study links state tax credit programs to higher birth weight

A sociological study found that state tax credit programs can reduce the incidence of low-birth-weight babies and help break cycles of childhood poor health. The study also suggests that these programs can improve prenatal health, higher birth weights, and reduced maternal smoking.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateAug 2, 2010

Ice-free ocean may not absorb CO2, a component in global warming

A recent study led by University of Georgia biogeochemist Wei-Jun Cai found that the Canada Basin's potential as a carbon dioxide sink is short-lived and minor. The research indicates that the waters become acidic and unsuitable for calcium-carbonate shell-bearing marine organisms due to rapid CO2 uptake.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScience·DateAug 2, 2010

MIT researchers show silicon can be made to melt in reverse

Researchers at MIT create a material that exhibits 'retrograde melting' at lower temperatures than normal, allowing for potentially cheaper production of solar cells and other devices. The discovery enables the creation of liquid droplets to purify silicon and could lead to new methods for making arrays of silicon nanowires.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Gene variant may increase severity of MS

A new study found that a gene variant may increase the severity of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms, with those having the AA genotype experiencing earlier relapses and increased disease activity. The GG genotype was associated with less disease activity and fewer relapses.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 2, 2010

1 high-fat diet, 2 different outcomes: The path to obesity becomes clearer

A study by Yale researchers found that a high-fat diet influences the brain's development, making some individuals more prone to obesity and others resistant. The study suggests that genetic and environmental factors, particularly maternal impact on the developing brain, play a critical role in determining vulnerability to obesity.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2010

Cholesterol levels in young adults predict risk of future heart disease

A 20-year study found that young adults with even modestly elevated cholesterol levels are more likely to develop coronary artery calcium and atherosclerosis. Cholesterol levels found in the majority of young adults in their 20s and 30s are associated with damage to coronary arteries, which can accumulate over time.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 2, 2010

Colitis patients diagnosed later in life tend to have better disease outcomes

Research found that adults diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at age 50 or later had better disease outcomes, including higher remission rates, compared to those diagnosed earlier in life. The study suggests changes in the aging immune system and environmental factors like smoking may contribute to this phenomenon.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateAug 2, 2010
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.

Mind over matter? The psychology of healing

A study by University of Nottingham researcher found that patients' coping styles and depression levels impact the healing process. Confrontational coping was linked to slower healing, while clinical depression resulted in reduced improvement.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalDiabetologia·DateAug 2, 2010

Iron oxide nanoparticles becoming tools for brain tumor imaging and treatment

Researchers have demonstrated the use of iron oxide nanoparticles to deliver antibodies to implanted brain tumors, enhancing tumor visibility via MRI while killing cancer cells. The particles also show potential for targeted therapy against glioblastoma multiforme, a common and aggressive primary brain tumor.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 2, 2010

A cellular housekeeper, and potential target of obesity drugs, caught in action

Scientists have obtained the closest look yet at how a gargantuan molecular machine breaks down unwanted proteins in cells, a critical housekeeping chore that helps prevent diseases such as cancer. The research provides valuable clues on how the enzyme, tripeptidyl peptidase II, keeps cells tidy and disease-free.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 2, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: August 2, 2010

Researchers developed an alphavirus vector to overcome neutralizing antibodies and induce immune responses in humans with advanced cancer. Genetic mutations determined breast cancer subtype by influencing Rb gene expression.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 2, 2010