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Science News Archive August 2010 - Page 6


Page 6 of 23

NICS to add more than 300 teraflops to the NSF's computing capacity

The University of Tennessee-managed NICS will add 300 teraflops and 200 million service units to the TeraGrid, increasing total available resources to over 800 million. Researchers can now access more resources, including the 166-teraflop Cray XT4 Athena, with improved availability for smaller jobs.

SourceNational Institute for Computational Sciences·DateAug 25, 2010

Copy number variation found to cause rare kidney disease

Researchers have identified a rare form of kidney disease linked to a genetic mutation in the innate immune system, causing progressive kidney malfunction and blood in urine. The condition, named CFHR5 nephropathy, has been found in over 100 people of Cypriot descent and is potentially serious but can be detected through DNA testing.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 25, 2010

Applying stem cell technology to liver diseases

Researchers have successfully generated iPS cell-derived hepatocytes, which can recapitulate key features of inherited liver diseases and regenerate in mice. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for liver disorders.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 25, 2010

How to count the messenger out

Researchers have described the effects of messengers on infrared spectroscopy of protonated water clusters, allowing for better interpretation of spectroscopic data. The study reveals unexpected interactions between messenger molecules and cluster structures, enabling more accurate analysis of molecular vibrations.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 24, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pulverized planet dust might lie around double stars

A new study using Spitzer data reveals a large amount of dust around three mature double-star systems, possibly resulting from planetary collisions. The research suggests that tight double-star systems might not be suitable for life to thrive due to the increased likelihood of chaotic events.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 24, 2010

Researchers find gene responsible for neurodegenerative disease in dogs, possibly in humans

A team of researchers discovered a gene responsible for a rare and fatal disease in American Staffordshire terriers. The same gene is believed to cause a similar disease in humans. Genetic analysis led to the identification of an entirely new mutation, which can be tested in human samples to determine its connection to Kufs' disease.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2010

Geo-engineering and sea-level rise over the 21st century

International research suggests that sea levels will be 30-70 centimeters higher by 2100 even with geo-engineering efforts. However, large-scale actions like sulfur dioxide injections or mirror orbits pose significant challenges. Bioenergy with carbon storage (BECS) appears to be a more desirable option.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 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.

Can the world be powered mainly by solar and wind energy?

Walter Kohn predicts a new era in human history where solar and wind power dominate global energy, driven by growing alternative energy production and declining oil and gas reserves. International cooperation is crucial to addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing energy landscape.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 24, 2010

Lipid peroxides -- more sophisticated than their reputation

A joint study by Helmholtz Zentrum München and Karolinska Institutet reveals that lipid peroxides temporarily inactivate protein tyrosine phosphatases, regulating cellular communication. This finding is crucial as aberrant activation of receptor tyrosine kinases contributes to various diseases, including cancer.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 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.

2 UH chemists receive national recognition

University of Houston chemists Rigoberto Advincula and Mamie Moy received ACS Fellowships, recognizing their outstanding contributions to science and the chemistry profession. Their research focuses on polymer and nanomaterials, with potential applications in chemical sensors, energy transfer, and more.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 24, 2010

Antiviral gene helps suppress jumping of AIDS viruses between host species

A new study has found that the antiviral gene TRIM5 plays a crucial role in suppressing the transmission of primate immunodeficiency viruses, including HIV-1 and HIV-2. The researchers used rhesus macaques with different versions of the TRIM5 gene to demonstrate its ability to block cross-species transmission of SIVs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2010

Researchers zero in on protein that destroys HIV

Scientists have identified six critical amino acids in the TRIM5α protein that enable it to destroy HIV. Altering these amino acids in human cells renders TRIM5α ineffective against HIV-1 infection, highlighting a potential target for therapy development.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalVirology·DateAug 24, 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.

Double-therapy approach effectively inhibited brain cancer recurrence

A novel combination therapy of temozolomide and a Notch inhibitor has been shown to be highly effective in reducing tumor growth and recurrence in glioblastoma multiforme. This approach aims to target cancer stem cells, which are resistant to traditional therapies.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Mumps vaccine coverage should be improved, study finds

Although immunity to mumps is high in the US, maintaining and improving vaccine coverage is crucial to prevent future outbreaks. The study found that only about 90% of the population has sufficient antibodies, which may not be enough to stop transmission.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 24, 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.

IT can help CVD management

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that IT-based programs can support clinicians to close gaps in CVD care delivery, including risk assessment and patient self-management. The authors emphasize the need for a supportive social and political environment to fully realize the potential of these programs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 24, 2010

Atrazine causes prostate inflammation in male rats and delays puberty

A new study found that prenatal exposure to low doses of atrazine causes prostate inflammation and delays puberty in male rats. The incidence of prostate inflammation increased significantly with the strength of the doses, while puberty was also delayed in animals exposed to atrazine.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalReproductive Toxicology·DateAug 24, 2010

NASA satellites see Tropical Storm Frank powering back up near Mexico

Tropical Storm Frank has strengthened with increasing convection and tightening thunderstorm bands. NASA's TRMM satellite revealed a deep eye wall and microwave data confirmed the storm's west-northwest trajectory. Heavy rainfall is expected over south-central Mexico, with potential flash floods and landslides.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 24, 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.

A moment on the lips, a year on the hips

A four-week episode of increased energy intake and decreased exercise caused significant weight gain, which was mostly lost within six months. However, the intervention group showed an increased fat mass compared to baseline after two and a half years, highlighting the long-term effects of short-term behavioral changes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateAug 24, 2010

Survey of American women finds STD vaccine viewed positively

The survey found that interest in receiving the HPV vaccine increased if it was available free of charge, but decreased as out-of-pocket costs rose. Convenience also played a role, with many women preferring to receive the vaccine at a doctor's office rather than a local pharmacy.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalSexual Health·DateAug 24, 2010

Salmon baby food? Babies need omega-3s and a taste for fish, scientist says

A University of Illinois professor has developed a nutritious salmon baby food for toddlers, citing the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for brain development and preventing coronary artery disease. The product's taste was found to be mild and appealing to parents, with an encouraging sensory panel response.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 24, 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.

New study shows how giant tortoises, alligators thrived in High Arctic 50 million years ago

A new study reveals that ancient alligators and giant tortoises lived on Ellesmere Island above the Arctic Circle despite six months of darkness, with average temperatures ranging from 66-68°F (19-20°C). The research provides insights into past and future biodiversity in the High Arctic as climate change impacts the region.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateAug 24, 2010

Why do consumer loyalty rewards programs need careful crafting?

A new study found that the magnitude of loyalty reward programs affects consumers' perceptions of their progress. Smaller step-sizes elicit strikingly different reactions, with those closer to the reward feeling they have made more progress.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Study shows deepwater oil plume in Gulf degraded by microbes

Researchers discovered a new species of bacteria degrading oil at an unprecedented rate without oxygen depletion. The study found that psychrophilic bacteria played a significant role in controlling deep-sea oil plumes, suggesting a potential for natural bioremediation.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 24, 2010

Cognitive behavior therapy improves symptom control in adult ADHD

A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improved symptom control in adult ADHD patients taking medication. The skills-based approach taught patients how to cope with attention problems and manage symptoms more effectively.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateAug 24, 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.

Whale sharks may produce many litters from 1 mating, paternity test shows

A study by University of Illinois Chicago biologist Jennifer Schmidt found that a female whale shark produced 304 embryos with the same father, suggesting she stores sperm after a single mating event. This finding could indicate that mating occurs as an isolated event rather than in breeding grounds.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Study suggests oxytocin makes people trusting, but not gullible

Researchers found that oxytocin increases trust in reliable partners but not in potentially unreliable ones. Volunteers who received oxytocin nasal spray were more generous with computer and reliable partners than those who received a placebo.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 24, 2010

Why making our own choices is more satisfying when pleasure is the goal

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that people are more satisfied with their experiences when they make personal choices, especially when the goal is pleasure. In contrast, when the goal is to achieve a higher-end consequence, there is no difference in satisfaction between those who choose and those who do not.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Engineering shorter wait times in the ER

Researchers used Six Sigma design strategy to improve ER triage process, reducing patient waiting time and length of stay. The approach sorted patients into treatment areas based on condition severity, not arrival time, resulting in significant reductions in wait times and stays.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage·DateAug 24, 2010

'Spintronics' breakthrough holds promise for next-generation computers

Researchers at the University of Kansas have discovered a new way to recognize currents of spinning electrons within a semiconductor, paving the way for superior computers and electronics. The innovation uses powerful lasers to detect spin-current in real-time, overcoming a major hurdle in spintronics research.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 24, 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.

Scientists map origin of large, underwater hydrocarbon plume in Gulf

Researchers use advanced technologies to map the origin of a massive underwater hydrocarbon plume in the Gulf of Mexico, confirming it came from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The plume is 22 miles long and 3,000 feet deep, and its composition suggests it has been persisting for longer than expected.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateAug 24, 2010

Darwin's family tree rediscovered

A Galton-Darwin-Wedgwood pedigree has been found in the archives of Truman State University, revealing new insights into Charles Darwin's family life. The discovery, made by Professor Tim Berra, provides a unique window into the personal life of the famous scientist.

SourceWiley·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateAug 24, 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.

Clinical trial findings challenge clinical practice

A randomized controlled trial of 301 patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction found no difference in major cardiovascular complications between those with and without planned balloon pump support. However, the study highlighted the importance of having a balloon pump on standby for high-risk cases.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA·DateAug 24, 2010

UF study shows carnivore species shrank during global warming event

Researchers discovered a nearly complete jaw from the hyena-like animal, Palaeonictis wingi, which evolved to half its ancestors' size during a 200,000-year period of global warming. The study suggests other factors may have played a critical role in its evolution.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Mammalian Evolution·DateAug 24, 2010

Half-a-loaf method can improve magnetic memories

Chinese scientists have developed a new cell design that uses an electric field to flip magnetization, resulting in faster and more energy-efficient magnetic memories. The design offers great potential for data storage and logic gates with ultra-low power consumption.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateAug 24, 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.

Cognitive behavioral therapy appears beneficial for adults with ADHD

A study published in JAMA found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) improved ADHD symptoms in adults who received medication, with greater improvement and higher responder rates compared to relaxation support. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed positive and sustained effects on ADHD symptoms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 24, 2010

Smallest U-M logo demonstrates advanced display technology

A University of Michigan professor has developed a new type of color filter made of nano-thin sheets with precisely spaced gratings, trapping and transmitting light of specific colors. The filter acts as a polarizer simultaneously, eliminating the need for additional polarizer layers, making it simpler to manufacture.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2010

See amazing new sun images from NJIT's Big Bear Solar Observatory

The Big Bear Solar Observatory has achieved 'first light' using a deformable mirror, resulting in the most detailed visible light image of a sunspot ever captured. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the observatory's adaptive optics system, which will enable better studies of solar complex phenomena and space weather.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateAug 24, 2010

Secrets of scents: Designing the smells that sell household products

Fragrance designers like Michael Papas aim to create scents that evoke emotions and nostalgia, using complex blends of synthetic and natural substances. By tailoring their creations to specific products, they strive to connect with consumers on a deeper level, making fragrances an integral part of our daily experiences.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 24, 2010

L'Oreal Fellowship winner seeks to understand breast cancer

Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researcher Dr Marie-Liesse Asselin-Labat is unraveling the mysteries of breast stem cells, their development, and influence by oestrogen and steroids. Her groundbreaking studies aim to uncover how breast cancer progresses and why it sometimes returns.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateAug 24, 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.

Chronic drinking can disrupt circadian rhythms

A human study found an association between dysregulation of circadian clock genes and chronic drinking. Lower levels of mRNA in these genes were observed in alcohol-dependent patients, indicating disrupted circadian rhythm.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateAug 24, 2010

Atmospheric pressure plasma jet from a grounded electrode

Scientists have developed a novel method for creating atmospheric pressure plasma jets using grounded electrodes, which differ from conventional applications. This breakthrough increases operator safety and enables the creation of jets at lower voltages, opening up new possibilities for biomedical applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateAug 24, 2010

A case for exercising

Researchers found that exercising obese rodents showed restored signals of satiety in hypothalamic neurons, leading to decreased food intake. The study's findings suggest a new paradigm for physical activity and weight loss, reinforcing the importance of regular exercise.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2010

New study sheds light on painkilling system in brain

Researchers have found that boosting brain levels of 2-AG, a natural painkiller, soon leads to loss of its therapeutic effect due to receptor downregulation. This discovery has implications for drug development and basic science, suggesting that more modest elevations in 2-AG may produce sustained pain relief.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 24, 2010

Mama wears Prada: Ovulating women buy sexier clothing

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that ovulating women choose sexier fashion products when thinking about other attractive local women. This unconscious behavior is driven by a desire to outdo rivals and entice desirable mates.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2010
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.

Fat distribution plays a role in weight loss success in patients at risk of diabetes

A study using MRI and MR spectroscopy found that abdominal and liver fat are key predictors of successful weight loss in individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. After a lifestyle intervention, participants with lower baseline levels of these fats experienced greater reductions in body weight and improved insulin sensitivity.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 24, 2010