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Science News Archive December 2010 - Page 17


Page 17 of 21

Alpha-2 integrin: A protein predictor of tumor spread?

Researchers found decreased alpha-2 integrin expression predicts tumor dissemination and lower survival rates in breast and prostate cancer. Alpha-2 integrin suppression of metastasis was confirmed using a mouse model and human microarray databases.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 6, 2010

Challenging HIV through social networking

A study by Young and Rice found that online social networking has both positive and negative effects on sexual risk behaviors in homeless youth, with potential for increased risks but also opportunities for effective health communication and information portals.

SourceSpringer·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateDec 6, 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.

Have restless legs syndrome during pregnancy? It may reappear later on

Research published by the American Academy of Neurology found that women who experience RLS during pregnancy are four times more likely to develop the condition again and three times more likely to have a chronic form. Symptoms may reappear later on in life or in future pregnancies.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 6, 2010

Measuring air-sea exchange of carbon dioxide in the open ocean

Researchers measured carbon dioxide fluxes in the North Atlantic using an autonomous system, making nearly 4,000 flux measurements. The study found that formation of bubbles in breaking waves may increase gas transfer at high wind speeds.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 6, 2010

Training the computer scientists of the future

The University of Manchester has established the UK's first Centre for Doctoral Training in Computer Science, receiving a £2.2m grant from EPSRC. The centre will admit at least 75 students over five years and provide training in research problem-solving, collaboration with industrial users, and real-world impact.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateDec 6, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Brand recognition can help hotels survive economic downturns

Research by Penn State and University of Gothenburg found that brand named hotels outperformed independent hotels in economic downturns. Branded hotels registered significantly higher net operating income during recessions due to increased occupancy, while independent hotels charged higher room rates due to perceived uniqueness.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateDec 6, 2010

New tool in the early detection of bowel disease

A new Confocal Laser Endomicroscope (CLE) tool allows clinicians to view bacteria that trigger bowel diseases like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis during routine colonoscopy. This enables rapid identification of patients at risk or in early stages of these diseases.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalGut·DateDec 6, 2010

Eutrophication makes toxic cyanobacteria more toxic

Research from the University of Gothenburg reveals that cyanobacteria like Nodularia spumigena become more toxic when facing eutrophication conditions, producing hepatotoxin nodularin. This toxin attacks the liver, posing a risk to humans and livestock consuming contaminated water.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalHarmful Algae·DateDec 6, 2010

Lesbian, gay and bisexual teens singled out for punishment

A Yale University study found that LGB adolescents are 40% more likely to be punished by school authorities, police, and the courts. Girls who identified as lesbian or bisexual were especially at risk for unequal treatment, with twice as many police stops, arrests, and convictions.

SourceYale University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 6, 2010

A DEDD cert to support embryo development

A recent study has identified DEDD protein as essential for the formation of a functional decidua in mice. Defective DEDD function may be responsible for female infertility. The researchers suggest further investigation into the relationship between DEDD dysfunction and infertility in women.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 6, 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.

Ravenous foreign pests threaten national treasures

A comprehensive study published in BioScience reveals over 455 insects and 16 pathogens are destroying forests across the US. Invasive species are predicted to continue threatening native ecosystems, with experts warning of a devastating impact on industries dependent on trees and plants.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalBioScience·DateDec 6, 2010

CMU to lead new center for climate and energy decisionmaking

Carnegie Mellon University has launched a new center for climate and energy decision making, developing strategies to protect fragile ecosystems and curb carbon emissions. The center will also educate graduate students on climate change and its impact on the environment.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateDec 6, 2010

Social relationships in animals have a genetic basis, UCLA biologists report

Researchers found that marmots' social behavior has a genetic component, with aggression tolerance and friendly interactions heritable traits. The study, led by UCLA biologists, used social network statistics to analyze the behavior of yellow-bellied marmots over six years.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 6, 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.

Peer pressure can keep you healthy

A study of 3610 Australian women found that social norms play a significant role in promoting physical activity and healthy eating behaviors. Women who surrounded themselves with friends who engaged in healthy behaviors were more likely to adopt similar habits.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateDec 6, 2010

Sex, race, place of residence influence high blood pressure incidence

A recent study has found that high blood pressure is more common among black women in the southeastern US compared to white men. The researchers analyzed data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study and discovered significant geographic, racial, and gender differences in hypertension risk.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateDec 6, 2010

Learning the language of bacteria

Researchers have discovered a class of molecules that can target quorum sensing, a key mechanism used by bacteria to communicate and coordinate their behavior. By blocking this system, scientists hope to develop new drugs that can prevent bacterial infections without promoting resistance.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalChemBioChem·DateDec 6, 2010

EMBO Installation Grants help 6 scientists set up in Europe

Six scientists from Croatia, Czech Republic, Poland, Portugal, and Turkey will receive the 2010 EMBO Installation Grants for 3 years. They will be integrated into the prestigious EMBO Young Investigator programme with networking opportunities and career development programmes.

SourceEMBO·DateDec 6, 2010

Bacteria seek to topple the egg as top flu vaccine tool

Scientists have developed a novel flu vaccine using bacteria, which triggers an immune response without the need for eggs. The study, led by John Treanor, showed that the experimental vaccine worked well in people, with about half of participants responding strongly to just one microgram of the vaccine.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalVaccine·DateDec 6, 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.

New NIH grant helps MU scientist get to the heart of muscular dystrophy

A new $2.1 million NIH grant will help MU scientist Dongsheng Duan develop a treatment that prevents heart muscles from weakening due to Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Tests have shown that treating skeletal muscle alone can lead to complications, highlighting the need for comprehensive treatment targeting both skeletal and cardiac muscle.

SourceUniversity of Missouri School of Medicine·DateDec 6, 2010

Warring Greeks find peace in ancient Egypt

A Greek trade emporium on Egyptian soil thrived under the protection of powerful Eastern empires. The Greeks who inhabited Naukrtis formed a unique culture despite being from warring city-states, emerging with a national Greek identity. This arrangement enabled the exchange of art and culture between Greece and Egypt.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateDec 6, 2010

Illinois study: Ginseng just got better -- not as bitter

University of Illinois scientists have discovered a method to reduce the bitterness of ginseng in energy drinks by over half using cyclodextrins. This innovation could improve the health benefits of these beverages and expand their market, particularly in the US energy drink industry.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateDec 6, 2010

Scientists announce discovery of first horned dinosaur from South Korea

The newly identified genus Koreaceratops hwaseongensis is the first ceratopsian dinosaur from the Korean peninsula, featuring a parrot-like face and unique fan-shaped tail. It lived approximately 5-6 feet long and weighed around 60-100 pounds, indicating it was relatively small compared to its giant relatives.

SourceCleveland Museum of Natural History·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateDec 6, 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.

Using new materials to make more reliable nanoelectromechanical systems

Researchers have found a way to improve the reliability of carbon nanotube-based nanoelectromechanical systems by using diamond-like carbon electrodes. This enables reliable switching and storage of binary states in devices, advancing the technology from laboratory-scale demonstrations to practical applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalSmall·DateDec 6, 2010

Mammogram sensitivity depends on menstrual cycle

Researchers suggest scheduling mammograms in the first week of a woman's menstrual cycle to improve accuracy in detecting breast cancer. The study found that mammography conducted at this time was more sensitive, but not necessarily specific, for finding breast cancers in pre-menopausal women.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalRadiology·DateDec 6, 2010

Color test predicts response to hypnotherapy

Researchers found that patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who chose a positive color on a color chart were nine times more likely to respond to hypnotherapy. The study suggests the use of this test as a predictor for responders.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateDec 6, 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.

New microscopic life aboard the RMS Titanic

Researchers have identified a new bacterium that contributes to the deterioration of the RMS Titanic's exterior, accelerating metal corrosion. The novel Halomonas titanicae has been found to adhere to steel surfaces, creating corrosion products.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateDec 6, 2010

Researchers: Include data about societal values in endangered species decisions

Researchers argue that the US Fish and Wildlife Service should consider societal values when determining whether species need protection from extinction. A study analyzing public opinions on wolves in the northern Rocky Mountains found mixed results, contradicting the agency's claim that attitudes have improved over time.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBioScience·DateDec 6, 2010

Rice physicists help unravel mystery of repetitive DNA segments

Scientists at Rice University have discovered that poly(dA) repeats behave differently when stretched, requiring less force to lengthen without additional effort. The findings raise more questions about the role these repeats play in gene regulation and genome packaging.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 6, 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.

Profiling based on mobile, online behavior: A privacy issue

Experts warn that consumers have little control over their online tracking and profiling, leading to a loss of privacy and potential manipulation of behavior. Nancy King, associate professor at Oregon State University, advocates for a balance between protecting consumer privacy and allowing behavioral advertising to thrive.

SourceOregon State University·JournalComputer Law & Security Review·DateDec 6, 2010

Early physical therapy for low back pain associated with less subsequent health care utilization

A new study published in Spine found that patients who received early physical therapy after an episode of low back pain were less likely to receive epidural steroid injections, lumbar surgery, and frequent physician visits. This suggests that prompt access to physical therapy can lead to improved outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

SourceAmerican Physical Therapy Association·JournalSpine·DateDec 6, 2010

University of Miami Rosenstiel School professor receives prestigious geophysics award

Tim Dixon received the 2010 George P. Woollard Award for his groundbreaking research in space geodesy, which has paved the way for studying earthquake hazard, volcanic processes, and climate change. His work has also contributed to understanding subsidence in Mexico City and the melting of the Greenland ice cap.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateDec 6, 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.

Study of how genes activate yields surprising discovery

Scientists at Einstein College of Medicine discovered that genes involved in building protein complexes are activated randomly, not coordinately. This unexpected finding may change the way scientists think about cellular processes and synchronization.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 5, 2010

Over-reactive immune system kills young adults during pandemic flu

Researchers found that a massive, uncontrolled activation of the complement system led to severe lung damage and death in young adults. The study's findings suggest that this over-reaction is responsible for making healthy young and middle-aged adults seriously ill during pandemic flu, explaining why they are disproportionately affected.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 5, 2010

'Shotgun' method allows scientists to dissect cells' sugar coatings

Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have adapted gene chip microarray technology to the study of glycans, using an approach called 'shotgun glycomics.' This technique allows for the separation and analysis of thousands of glycans, enabling researchers to test what sticks to them. The method has been used to identify a mo...

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 5, 2010

UNC-led team tests commonly used antibodies

A UNC-led research team developed a searchable database of more than 200 commonly used antibodies to help genetic scientists precisely test DNA. The database addresses the issue of specificity in antibody tests, which can affect gene regulation and human diseases.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 5, 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.

Seeing the world differently

Researchers found that individual volunteers' perceptions of optical illusions varied greatly due to differences in brain size. The primary visual cortex area affects the extent to which we see visual illusions.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 5, 2010

Babies' biological clocks dramatically affected by birth light cycle

A new study finds that birth light cycles significantly impact the development of biological clocks in mice, which may explain why people born in winter months are at a higher risk of certain neurological disorders. The experiment reveals that even after weaning, biological clocks remain affected by the initial light cycle.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 5, 2010

Northern wildfires threaten runaway climate change, study reveals

A new study reveals that climate change is causing northern wildfires to burn more fiercely and release more carbon into the atmosphere than previously thought. The research found that fires in Alaska's interior have become more severe over the past decade, pumping out more greenhouse gases and accelerating permafrost loss.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 5, 2010

Study reveals new possibility of reversing damage caused by MS

Researchers have identified a mechanism to regenerate insulating layers in the brain that protect nerve fibers in multiple sclerosis. The study shows activating stem cells can repair injury in the central nervous system, reversing damage caused by MS.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 5, 2010
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

The LouseBuster returns

A new study by the University of Utah found that the LouseBuster is highly effective in killing head lice and nits, with 94.8% mortality rate. The device uses warm air to dry out lice and nits, making it a safe and easy treatment option.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateDec 5, 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.

Phase I trial indicates ponatinib may thwart most resistant CML

A Phase I trial indicates that ponatinib produces significant hematologic and cytogenetic responses in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who have developed resistance to standard treatments. The drug showed strong efficacy in patients with the T315I mutation, which is resistant to current therapies.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateDec 4, 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.

Preventing physician medication mix-ups by reporting them

A study using the MEADERS (Medication Error and Adverse Drug Event Reporting System) system found that communication problems and lack of knowledge are leading causes of medication errors, with cardiovascular medications being the most commonly associated. The system has been successful in reducing harm to patients, documenting 11% of ...

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateDec 3, 2010