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Science News for July 29, 2010


Playing with pills

Norwegian nursing students will be given a specially developed computer game to aid in passing a critical exam. The project aims to improve learning through visual and fun methods, addressing students' struggles with mathematics and science.

SourceUniversity of Stavanger·DateJul 29, 2010

UCLA scientists for the first time identify a cell-of-origin for human prostate cancer

Researchers identified basal cells from benign prostate tissue as a new cell-of-origin for human prostate cancer. This discovery could lead to better predictive and diagnostic tools, as well as the development of targeted treatments. The study provides a novel model system for understanding prostate cancer development and progression.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 29, 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.

Graphene exhibits bizarre new behavior well suited to electronic devices

Physicists at the University of California, Berkeley discovered that when graphene is stretched, it develops bubbles of quantized electrons behaving in a bizarre way. The discovery opens doors to room-temperature straintronics and control of electronic properties through strain.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJul 29, 2010

Gender-bending fish on the rise in southern Alberta

A study by University of Calgary researchers reveals a significant increase in female fish population and feminization of males in two Southern Alberta rivers. The presence of man-made and naturally occurring chemicals, such as synthetic estrogens and bisphenol A, is linked to the sex ratio imbalance.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateJul 29, 2010

To make one happy, make one busy

Researchers found that people who stay busy, even with meaningless tasks, are happier than those who sit idly. The study used a survey with two options: drop off the survey at a nearby location or wait out the remaining time by walking to a farther location.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 29, 2010

Home birth: Proceed with caution

Recent meta-analysis finds planned home births double the risk of neonatal deaths and triple when infants have congenital defects. Women should receive adequate midwife care and have quick access to hospital equipment for safe delivery.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 29, 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.

A breakthrough in tuberculosis research

Researchers found that TB bacteria tip the balance between cell death types, affecting immune response. Drugs targeting eicosanoid production may offer new treatment options for TB.

SourceMcGill University·DateJul 29, 2010

'White graphene' to the rescue

Researchers have successfully produced sheets of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), a potential insulator to complement graphene's electronic properties. The material can be deposited and transferred to various substrates, opening up possibilities for its use in graphene-based electronics.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 29, 2010

Discovered: Audubon's first engraving of a bird

After a decade-long search, Audubon's first published bird illustration of a running grouse has been discovered. The find sheds light on Audubon's development as an artist and provides a rare view of the Heath Hen, a subspecies that became extinct in the early 19th century.

SourceAcademy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University·JournalJournal of the Early Republic·DateJul 29, 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.

Study finds respiratory symptoms more reliable indicator of H1N1, not fever alone

A new study reveals that coughing and other respiratory symptoms are more accurate indicators of H1N1 infection than fever, which can lead to undetected cases. According to the research, nearly half of individuals with mild H1N1 infections may not display fever, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive screening approach.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJul 29, 2010

New lab test could identify imatinib resistance

A new lab test developed by Japanese scientists can accurately predict imatinib resistance in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients. The test measures protein levels and activity markers to identify resistant cells and determine the next therapeutic option, including dose escalation or combination therapy.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 29, 2010

Some trees 'farm' bacteria to help supply nutrients

Certain tree species have developed strategies to select bacterial communities that can break down inorganic minerals into usable nutrients. This process, known as mineral weathering, is essential for tree growth in acidic forest soils.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 29, 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.

Empa grows 'sea urchin'-shaped structures

Researchers have developed a new method to create nanostructured surfaces using polystyrene spheres and zinc oxide, which can efficiently absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. The 'sea-urchin'-shaped structures

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 29, 2010

Researchers study benefits of white button mushrooms

Researchers found that white button mushrooms enhance dendritic cell maturity, improving immune response to disease-causing pathogens. The study suggests that consuming adequate nutrients can support immune system health.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateJul 29, 2010

Signs of reversal of Arctic cooling in some areas

Researchers reconstructed summer temperatures on the Kola Peninsula and found a rapid temperature rise since 1990, contradicting previous cooling trends. The data suggest that solar activity may have been a significant factor contributing to Arctic temperature fluctuations until 1970.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateJul 29, 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 is stopping timely stroke care in the UK?

A recent report from the UK Vascular Society and Royal College of Physicians reveals patients in the UK are waiting too long for vascular surgery after stroke or TIA symptoms. The main causes of delays include delayed referral, scarcity of staff or operating theatres, and patient presentation issues.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 29, 2010

New pathway to Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases

Researchers found that a gaseous molecule called nitric oxide can trigger brain cell death in neurodegenerative diseases. The study discovered a new molecular pathway that leads to cellular suicide, offering new potential for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 29, 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.

Ear bones reveal spawning secrets of Lake Erie walleye

A statistical analysis of chemicals found in walleye ear bones reveals that almost all Maumee-spawned walleyes were hatched there, but only two-thirds of Sandusky-spawned walleyes originated from the same river. This study helps wildlife officials determine which rivers are at risk of overfishing.

SourceOhio State University·DateJul 29, 2010

A new ground zero for prostate cancer

Researchers found that prostate basal cells can spawn tumors in the prostate gland, providing a new originator of prostate cancer. The study used human prostate tissue samples to develop new techniques and identified unique cell surface markers to distinguish luminal cells from basal cells.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 29, 2010

TNF blockers may increase the risk of malignancy in children

A study by FDA researchers found a higher incidence of malignancy in children using TNF blockers like infliximab and etanercept. The reporting rate for U.S. cases of malignancy in children was 4-18 times the estimated background rate for the general pediatric population.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 29, 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.

Memory's master switch

A study published in Neuron reveals that GABA, a natural molecule in the brain, is responsible for regulating synaptic connections and facilitating the formation of new memories. The research demonstrates that variations in local GABA levels near individual synapses determine synaptic strength and heterogeneity.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 29, 2010

Good and bad in the hands of politicians

Researchers found that right-handers favor their dominant hand for positive ideas and non-dominant hand for negative thoughts. Conversely, left-handers use their left hand for positive expressions and right hand for negative ones. These findings suggest people link 'good' with the side of their body they can use most fluently.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 29, 2010

Researchers find new translocation; weak spots in DNA lead to genetic disease

A new recurrent translocation between chromosomes 8 and 22 has been found to cause a range of genetic diseases. The disorder, characterized by mild mental retardation and developmental delays, is thought to arise from palindromic sequences in the DNA that are prone to breakage and rearrangement.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 29, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vitamin D deficiency linked to arterial stiffness in black teens

A new study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased arterial stiffness in black teens. Researchers discovered that higher doses of vitamin D supplementation (2,000 IU) improved cardiovascular health and reduced central arterial stiffness.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 29, 2010

'Linc-ing' a noncoding RNA to a central cellular pathway

Researchers identify a critical lincRNA-p21 that suppresses multiple genes across the genome following p53 activation, playing a key role in mediating cellular response to DNA damage. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding gene regulation and developing anti-cancer therapies.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJul 29, 2010

Polymer passage takes time

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theoretical method to calculate the time it takes for long-chain polymers to translocate through nanopore geometries, shedding new light on their transport. The study found that polymers pass more quickly when entering a composite pore through its wide end.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJul 29, 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.

Scientists post lower speed limit for cell-signaling protein assembly

Researchers at Michigan State University found that protein diffusion is slower than previously thought, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases such as Alzheimer's, ALS, and cystic fibrosis. The discovery provides a fundamental understanding of the pre-folded state of proteins.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2010

Grant to revive pre-contact Chamorro fishing techniques

The University of Guam Sea Grant Extension Program aims to revive traditional Chamorro fishing practices, which were replaced by Western technology. The project will teach the community how to build and repair indigenous canoes and fish using pre-contact equipment, promoting sustainable seafood supply and cultural preservation. Environ...

SourceUniversity of Guam·DateJul 29, 2010

Most youth hockey injuries caused by accidents, not checking, UB study shows

A new study from the University at Buffalo found that 66% of youth hockey injuries were caused by accidental hits to the boards or goal posts, while only 34% were caused by checking. The study, which analyzed data from over 3,000 players, suggests that coaches should teach players to keep their heads up and avoid looking down at the puck.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJul 29, 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.

Plant compound resveratrol shown to suppresses inflammation, free radicals in humans

A study conducted by University at Buffalo researchers found that resveratrol suppressed the generation of free radicals and reduced inflammation in human blood samples. The compound also showed promise in reducing insulin resistance and related markers, potentially benefiting conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 29, 2010

Small increases in vaccine cost can cause large gaps in protection

A Harvard University study found that small changes in perceived vaccine costs can lead to significant gaps in herd immunity, with social networks playing a crucial role in the spread of disease. The researchers discovered that increasing vaccination cost prompts more free-riding and leads to larger epidemics.

SourceHarvard University·DateJul 29, 2010

Kidney injury prevention may be possible: Watch for the warning signs

Researchers discovered that patients with high levels of albuminuria have a significantly increased risk of developing acute kidney injury, highlighting the importance of monitoring kidney function. By recognizing these warning signs, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent preventable forms of acute kidney injury.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 29, 2010

New $1.5 million NSF grant to track bee declines and pollination

A $1.5 million NSF grant will consolidate data from 10 natural history bee collections across the US, including Cornell's 250,000-specimen collection. This effort aims to establish conservation status and predict risks to bee pollination services from climate change and habitat loss.

SourceCornell University·DateJul 29, 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.

A leap forward in addiction awareness and control

The AACTP and LEAP programmes address challenges faced by excessive drinkers, including preoccupation with drinking and motivation difficulties. The study shows that these programmes significantly decrease weekly alcohol consumption and increase participants' confidence in resisting high-risk situations.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJul 29, 2010

Brown dwarf found orbiting a young sun-like star

Astronomers have discovered a brown dwarf companion to a young sun-like star, PZ Tel A. The discovery reveals the early stages of solar system formation and provides insights into planetary formation.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 29, 2010

Behind the secrets of silk lie high-tech opportunities

Researchers at Tufts University have made significant advancements in silk materials, transforming them from commodity textiles to high-tech applications. The development of silk hydrogels, films, fibers, and sponges enables advances in photonics, nanotechnology, electronics, adhesives, and microfluidics.

SourceTufts University·JournalScience·DateJul 29, 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.

Graphene under strain creates gigantic pseudo-magnetic fields

Researchers have created giant pseudo-magnetic fields in graphene by applying the right amount of strain, revealing a new window into fundamental scientific discoveries and potential applications. The findings, published in Science journal, exceed the strongest magnetic fields ever sustained in a laboratory setting.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJul 29, 2010

Western diet link to ADHD

A new study from Perth's Telethon Institute for Child Health Research found an association between a 'Western-style' diet and an increased risk of ADHD diagnosis in adolescents. The research examined the dietary patterns of over 1,800 adolescents and classified them into 'Healthy' or 'Western' patterns.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalJournal of Attention Disorders·DateJul 29, 2010

Unexpected viral 'fossils' found in vertebrate genomes

A recent study found that human and other vertebrate genomes contain ancient sequences from deadly virus families, Ebola/Marburgviruses and Bornaviruses. These integrations were likely mediated by movable elements and may provide a selective advantage to the host species, potentially protecting against future infections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 29, 2010

Just drop it: The one-size-fits-all approach to blood sugar control, that is

A study of 24,875 dialysis patients found that sustained extremes in blood sugar levels increased the risk of dying prematurely. Individualized hemoglobin A1c targets may be more appropriate than a one-size-fits-all approach for diabetic patients with kidney failure.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 29, 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.

Brain potentials reveal spectator effect

Researchers found differing responses for neutral observers, those who wished the player to fail, and those who wanted to see them succeed. The study used event-related potentials to measure brain activity in response to different game scenarios.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateJul 29, 2010

Elsevier Middle East announces the Lancet Middle East website

The Lancet Middle East website offers region-specific content and news for healthcare professionals in the Middle East. The site provides handpicked articles, research, and medical news relevant to the region, enabling users to stay up-to-date with medical research as it unfolds.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 29, 2010

Study finds black carbon implicated in global warming

A recent study conducted by a University of Iowa professor and his colleagues found that increasing the ratio of black carbon to sulfate in the atmosphere increases climate warming. Black carbon from diesel engine exhaust and cooking fires was found to be more efficient at warming than biomass burning plumes.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 29, 2010