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Science News for July 14, 2010


New analysis may help clarify the role of craving in addiction

Behavioral economic analysis shows that increased craving for alcohol also increases the relative value of alcohol, leading to a paradoxical behavior where addicts continue to use despite wanting to quit. The study involves 92 university students who underwent laboratory assessments after being given spring water and their favorite beer.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAddiction·DateJul 14, 2010

Submarines could use new nanotube technology for sonar and stealth

Researchers have developed carbon nanotube speakers that can generate sound waves and cancel out noise, ideal for submarine sonar. These 'nanotube speakers' can also be tuned to specific frequencies to detect underwater objects, enhancing stealth capabilities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 14, 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.

Fossil find puts a face on early primates

A recent discovery of a 29-million-year-old fossil catarrhine provides new insights into the facial anatomy of the ancestral stock of apes and Old World monkeys. The Saadanius skull supports the hypothesis that the last common ancestor had a baboon-like, long snout, similar to that of modern true apes and monkeys.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 2010

Key advance in understanding 'pseudogap' phase in high-Tc superconductors

Researchers found asymmetrical behavior in electrons' tunneling ability depending on oxygen atom position, a significant step toward identifying pseudogap state and its effect on superconductivity. The discovery may lead to new approaches to achieving room-temperature superconductivity in copper-oxides.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 2010

5 awarded ASTRO research grants

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has selected five physicians as recipients of two grants, the Junior Faculty Career Research Training Award and the Residents/Fellows in Radiation Oncology Research Seed Grant Award. The awards support junior physician faculty and residents/fellows in radiation oncology research.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateJul 14, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Toward making 'extended blood group typing' more widely available

Scientists have developed a new, automated genetic method for determining a broader range of blood types, enabling better matching in blood banks. The HiFi Blood 96 test can handle high volumes of blood and is more affordable than existing commercial tests, paving the way for wider adoption of extended blood group typing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJul 14, 2010

Jargon-busting software bridges the knowledge gap

Researchers have developed a tool that uses artificial intelligence to provide additional information on complex terms, bridging the semantic gap and improving communication. The approach has been successfully tested in an English composition class, where students could access explanations of teacher-used terminology.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Intelligent Information and Database Systems·DateJul 14, 2010

Opening the gate to the cell's recycling center

New research reveals the TRPML1 channel plays a crucial role in lysosome function, offering new avenues for treating conditions like ALS and CMT. The findings suggest that activating this channel could help overcome membrane traffic defects caused by disease-causing mutations.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 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.

Putting color in 'e-reader' displays

Researchers are developing methods to add color to e-reader displays, including simple filters and new electronic ink technologies. Color displays could enhance the user experience and open up new markets for educational materials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 14, 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.

What happens to your genes when you smoke a cigarette?

A groundbreaking study published in BMC Medical Genomics found significant changes in gene expression due to cigarette smoke exposure. The research, involving 1,240 individuals, identified over 323 unique genes whose expression levels were correlated with smoking behavior, revealing a sobering link between smoking and gene expression.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medical Genomics·DateJul 14, 2010

New role for the JNK protein

A recent study reveals that the JNK protein controls the cell cycle by regulating key drivers of cell growth. The findings suggest that hyperactive JNK activity may contribute to genomic instability and promote tumor growth.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 14, 2010

Cow's milk does a baby good

A new study from Tel Aviv University suggests that mothers who feed their babies cow's milk in the first 15 days of life may be protecting them from developing an allergy to cow's milk protein later in life. The study found that babies who were fed cow milk protein early, in the form of infant formula, were almost completely protected ...

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJul 14, 2010

Brain fitness program study reveals visual memory improvement in older adults

A brain fitness program has been shown to improve visual memory in older adults by up to 10%, leading to increased accuracy and a link to changes in neural activity. This study's findings suggest that focused training can lead to plasticity in the brain, improving cognitive function in aging populations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 14, 2010

Graphic partnership brings life to Council data

The vizLib project analyzed data from 450,000 library users in Leicestershire, revealing unprecedented insights into the behavior of service users. The graphic partnership informs policy decisions and inspires greater interest among policymakers and the public.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJul 14, 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.

SRNL works to decrease hazards from mold in water damaged homes

SRNL is working with universities to develop prevention and cleanup methods for flooded homes, analyzing common mold types and identifying toxic strains. The research aims to determine the best ways to clean structures, prepare materials to prevent mold growth, and assess health risks.

SourceDOE/Savannah River National Laboratory·DateJul 14, 2010

Insulin signaling key to caste development in bees

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered that the insulin signaling pathway is crucial for caste development in honeybees. By manipulating this pathway, scientists can determine whether a larva will become a worker or queen bee. This study provides valuable insights into human biology and aging, as well as the importance...

SourceArizona State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 14, 2010

Nanotubes pass acid test

Rice researchers have found a breakthrough solvent for carbon nanotubes, untangling long tubes and clearing the way for scalable methods to create strong, lightweight materials. The discovery brings the creation of a highly conductive quantum nanowire closer.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 14, 2010

Researchers study relationship of oral cancers and periodontal disease

A recent study suggests that Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.g.) infection may contribute to the chronicity of inflammatory disorders leading to oral cancers. The research found that P.g. induces expression of immune-regulating receptors B7-H1 and B7-DC in squamous cell carcinoma cells, facilitating immune evasion.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJul 14, 2010

Princeton scientists find unusual electrons that go with the flow

Princeton researchers have found unique electrons that can bypass obstacles and flow efficiently on surfaces of certain materials, potentially revolutionizing electronics. This discovery opens the door to creating faster integrated circuits by leveraging the flow of surface electrons.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 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.

A*STAR and Cytos Biotechnology establish influenza vaccine collaboration

Singapore's A*STAR and Cytos Biotechnology collaborate on a virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine targeting influenza hemagglutinin protein. The partnership aims to develop an independent supply of vaccines for Singapore and ASEAN countries, extending Cytos' R&D pipeline.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·DateJul 14, 2010

NIH expands food allergy research program

The NIH has renewed its food allergy research program, the Consortium of Food Allergy Research (CoFAR), with a $29.9 million grant for five more years. The program will expand to include research on genetic causes underlying food allergy and studies of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 14, 2010

After 40 years, NIH-supported researchers identify possible new treatment for severe vasculitis

A new treatment strategy using rituximab has shown comparable benefits to the current standard of care in reducing disease activity and inducing remission for patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis. Early results also suggest improved outcomes for patients with relapsing disease, making this a major treatment advance.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 14, 2010

Cashew seed extract an effective anti-diabetic

A new study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research journal reveals that cashew seed extract can improve the body's response to insulin, potentially treating diabetes. The investigation found that only cashew seed extract significantly stimulated blood sugar absorption by muscle cells.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateJul 14, 2010

Meditation helps increase attention span

A study found that intensive meditation training improves perceptual discrimination and sustained attention, leading to better task performance over time. The benefits persisted even after five months, particularly for those who continued to meditate daily.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 14, 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.

Supercharged proteins enter biology's forbidden zone

Scientists have discovered a way to help protein-based drugs enter cells by attaching them to supercharged green fluorescent protein. This approach is up to 100 times more effective than previous methods, allowing proteins to reach their target locations and perform their functions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJul 14, 2010

Future HIV vaccines: If we build it, will they come?

A new review of existing literature found that several factors influence willingness to receive an HIV vaccine, including misconceptions about vaccine efficacy and fear of side effects. To ensure a future HIV vaccine is acceptable, public education is crucial to address these concerns.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAIDS·DateJul 14, 2010

First Argentinean study on epidemiology, costs and burden of osteoporosis published

A comprehensive Argentinean epidemiological study found that one out of three women aged 50 or over suffers from osteoporosis, with a prevalence of vertebral fractures in 16% of women aged 50 or older. The study estimated annual costs of hip fractures and vertebral fractures to exceed $250 million USD per year.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalArchives of Osteoporosis·DateJul 14, 2010

Food for our future -- it's more than what's for dinner

The Mizzou Advantage initiative brings together researchers, faculty members, and stakeholders to address food-related issues such as obesity, nutritional shortages, and chronic disease. The project aims to create innovative solutions through collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJul 14, 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.

Scientists' work improves odds of finding diamonds

Researchers have made a breakthrough in finding diamonds, discovering that kimberlites owe their origin to hot mantle plumes rising from the core-mantle boundary. This new understanding will help geologists concentrate their search for diamond-bearing rocks within ancient cratons, increasing the odds of finding precious gems.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 2010

26-year study reveals optimum duration of treatment for Q fever endocarditis

A 26-year study found that 18 months of combined antibiotic therapy with doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine is sufficient to make infection undetectable in most patients, but six patients experienced serological relapse after 15-24 months. The optimal treatment duration may be longer for prosthetic valve patients.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJul 14, 2010

Waterborne diseases could cost over $500 million annually in US

A recent study estimates that waterborne diseases like Legionnaires', cryptosporidiosis, and giardiasis cost the healthcare system up to $539 million annually. The three diseases cause severe illness often requiring hospital stays of over a week, resulting in significant healthcare costs.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJul 14, 2010

Blind mice can 'see' thanks to special retinal cells

A study by Johns Hopkins University found that blind mice can form low-acuity images using special photosensitive cells in their retinas. This discovery suggests that a blind person could be trained to use these cells to perform simple tasks requiring low visual acuity.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 14, 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.

CCNY-led team develops nontoxic oil recovery agent

A CCNY-led team has created a non-toxic, recyclable gelling agent that can solidify oil on salt water, allowing for efficient scooping and separation. The agent is environmentally benign and uses renewable sources.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 14, 2010

A safe room? Or a new home entertainment center?

The Resilient Home Program aims to reduce tornado-related fatalities by promoting safe room designs and construction. The program uses research and outreach efforts to communicate the importance of storm shelters, with a focus on increasing adoption in the Southeast region.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateJul 14, 2010

Individuals confess alcohol abuse to clergy

A study from Michigan Medicine and Saint Louis University found that 14.7% of people with alcohol-related problems used clergy services, highlighting their role in overall system of care. Factors associated with increased likelihood of using clergy services include being Black, aged 35-54 years, and major depressive disorder.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal on Addictions·DateJul 14, 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.

'Tough love' no good for obesity interventions

Researchers found that obese people preferred public health interventions perceived as non-judgmental and empowering. Participants were less likely to view stigmatizing or shaming approaches as effective. Non-commercial techniques, such as personalised care planning and long-term support systems, were also supported.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 14, 2010

New therapy for vasculitis may help patients avoid infertility and cancer

A new study found that Rituximab can effectively treat severe vasculitis, reducing the risk of infertility and cancer compared to traditional medication. The treatment was shown to be equally effective in putting patients into remission as cyclophosphamide, with a safer side effect profile.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 14, 2010

Obesity harms women's memory and brain function

A new study found that obesity is associated with poorer memory and brain function in older women, particularly those who carry excess weight around their hips. The research controlled for various health factors and suggests that different types of fat may have varying effects on cognition.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 14, 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.

New treatment for crippling diabetic Charcot foot

A new surgical technique using a circular external fixator secures foot bones, allowing 90% of obese diabetics with Charcot foot to walk normally. The device is attached for only two or three months, reducing recovery time and complications.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalHospital Practice·DateJul 14, 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.

Plavix may be treatment for dogs at risk of thromboembolic disease

Researchers found that clopidogrel significantly inhibits platelet function in healthy dogs, with no adverse effects. The study suggests clopidogrel may be a safe and effective treatment for dogs at risk of thromboembolic disease, offering an alternative to NSAIDs.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·DateJul 14, 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.

Footloose glaciers crack up

A new study by Scripps Institution of Oceanography reveals that floating glaciers produce larger icebergs than grounded cousins and behave erratically. This is the first detailed observation of a glacier transitioning from grounded to floating.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 14, 2010

NIH expands national network for transforming clinical and translational research

The NIH has awarded $255 million to nine health research centers to develop ways to reduce the time it takes for clinical research to become treatments for patients. The funding will support the Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) program, which aims to transform discoveries into preventions, treatments, and cures.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateJul 14, 2010

Correcting a trick of the light brings molecules into view

Researchers have developed a technique that corrects a trick of the light, enabling the use of optical microscopy to image objects or distances with resolutions as small as 0.5 nanometers, revolutionizing biology. This breakthrough allows for accurate measurements of protein structures and molecular organization in biological samples.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 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.

UNC scientists author editorial on international trials for vasculitis

Two UNC School of Medicine faculty authored an editorial discussing the results of two clinical trials using Rituximab to treat small-vessel vasculitis, a rare autoimmune disease. The trials showed that Rituximab was effective in inducing remission compared to other treatments.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 14, 2010