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Science News for July 6, 2010


New Keck website unveiled, demonstrates advances in digital mapping

The new Keck website demonstrates advances in digital mapping by providing a customizable interface for users to access various data sets. The site combines ArcGIS Server and Google maps, offering an intuitive way to access data, and is significantly faster than comparable searches, returning results five to six times faster.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·DateJul 6, 2010

Multicolor quantum dots aid in cancer biopsy diagnosis

Researchers developed multicolor quantum dot staining to identify Reed-Sternberg cells, characteristic of Hodgkin's lymphoma. This method allows for rapid detection and identification of rare malignant cells from heterogeneous tissue specimens.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJul 6, 2010

Glucosamine appears to provide little benefit for chronic low-back pain

A randomized controlled trial found that patients with chronic low-back pain and degenerative lumbar osteoarthritis who took glucosamine for six months showed no significant difference in pain-related disability, pain, or quality of life compared to those who received a placebo. The study suggests that further research is needed to det...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 6, 2010

Marine scientists return with rare creatures from the deep

Researchers found diverse marine life on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, including a missing evolutionary link between backboned and invertebrate animals. The team discovered three new species with different colors and shapes, as well as sea cucumbers with unique swimming abilities.

SourceCensus of Marine Life·DateJul 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.

Fat cells play key role in development of type 2 diabetes

New research reveals that cellular changes in fat tissue, rather than the immune system, contribute to glucose intolerance and type 2 diabetes. The study found that a specific gene, protein kinase C-zeta, promotes inflammation in fat cells, leading to insulin resistance.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 6, 2010

A risk factor of gallstone formation after radical gastrectomy

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that patients with the X+ allele of the APOB gene have a higher incidence of gallstone formation after radical gastrectomy. This is due to increased levels of TC and LDL, leading to bile cholesterol saturation and an increased risk of gallstones.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 6, 2010

For lambs, a pasture a week keeps blood suckers away

A study by the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service found that rotational grazing and checking a lamb's eye color can minimize deworming. The researchers tested 71 lambs with the barber pole worm, finding that gel capsules filled with copper oxide wire particles eliminated the need for conventional dewormers in ...

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalVeterinary Parasitology·DateJul 6, 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.

Stapled transanal rectal resection is beneficial for patients with obstructed defecation

A recent study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) is a safe and beneficial surgical procedure for patients with obstructed defecation syndrome. The procedure significantly improved symptoms of constipation, quality of life, and patient satisfaction.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 6, 2010

UNC team finds new target for treatment of advanced prostate cancer

A recent study by UNC researchers provides evidence that a specific gene, MAGE-11, interacts with proteins to promote androgen receptor activity in advanced prostate cancer cells. This finding opens the door to additional targets for new therapies and broader clinical applications of new drugs.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 6, 2010

Neural stem cells attack glioblastoma cells

Researchers identify a protein released by neural stem cells that induces signaling in glioblastoma cells, causing them to differentiate. This discovery could lead to new therapy concepts targeting tumor stem cells and potentially destroying the aggressive brain tumors.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalBrain·DateJul 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.

AIAA to present awards at 46th Joint Propulsion Conference

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) will present several awards at the 46th Joint Propulsion Conference & Exhibit. These include the AIAA Air Breathing Propulsion Award to Bobby Berrier for his contributions to propulsion airframe integration, and the AIAA Propellants and Combustion Award to David G. Lilley fo...

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJul 6, 2010

Therapist competence matters -- and more for some patients than others

A new study found that depressed patients who receive more competent therapy show significant symptom improvement. Therapist competence was particularly important for patients with anxiety and early onset depression. While competence predicted better outcomes in the short-term, its impact waned over time.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateJul 6, 2010

York U researchers find anxiety may be at root of religious extremism

Researchers found that anxious conditions cause participants to become more engaged in their ideals and extreme in their religious convictions. The findings suggest that bold but vulnerable people gravitate to idealistic and religious extremes for relief from anxiety.

SourceYork University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 6, 2010

Using ultrasound to control toxic algal blooms

Researchers at the University of Adelaide are exploring ultrasound to combat blue-green algae blooms in water supplies, a significant global problem. They aim to develop an environmentally friendly and cost-effective method using low-amplitude ultrasound to immobilize the algae without releasing toxins.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateJul 6, 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.

Scientists design new delivery device for gene therapy

Researchers create nanoparticle that effectively delivers genetic material into cells, outperforming existing methods. The device, a vector, is between 2 ½ and 10 times more effective than other experimental materials, according to the research.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·DateJul 6, 2010

Changing climate could alter meadows' ecosystems, says ISU researcher

A study by ISU researcher Diane Debinski found that drought conditions could lead to a shift from flowering plants to shrubs in montane meadows. This change could impact wildlife populations, including elk, bison, and pollinators like butterflies. Medium-moisture meadows may be particularly vulnerable to climate change.

SourceIowa State University·JournalEcology·DateJul 6, 2010

Shocking results from diamond anvil cell experiments

Researchers achieved unprecedented pressures, temperatures, and time scales to study metastable states of argon under ultra-high pressure. This technique allows for direct comparison with molecular dynamics simulations and expands our understanding of planetary interiors and exotic behavior.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 6, 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.

The Framingham Heart Study -- global impact, ongoing influence

The Framingham Heart Study has had a profound impact on the understanding and prevention of cardiovascular disease. The study's findings have led to significant reductions in cardiovascular mortality rates worldwide, particularly in the United States. Its legacy continues to shape public health initiatives globally.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalProgress in Cardiovascular Diseases·DateJul 6, 2010

New study confirms positive effects of delayed school start times

A study at a small private high school in Rhode Island found that delaying school start time by 30 minutes improved adolescent alertness, mood, and health. The researchers observed significant increases in sleep duration, decreases in daytime sleepiness, and improvements in motivation.

SourceLifespan·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJul 6, 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.

Isolation a threat to Great Barrier Reef fish

Research suggests that small and isolated reefs are more susceptible to local species extinctions due to variable fish populations. Larger, connected habitats see fewer fluctuations in population sizes, making them more resilient to changes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology·DateJul 6, 2010

Water's unexpected role in blood pressure control

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have discovered that water increases the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, raising alertness, blood pressure, and energy expenditure. Drinking water may also reduce fainting responses in blood donors by 20 percent, according to the study.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateJul 6, 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.

Intrahepatic clear cell cholangiocarcinoma

A case report describes a rare instance of intrahepatic clear cell cholangiocarcinoma, highlighting its distinct characteristics and low risk of metastasis. The cancer's unique cell structure and lack of mucin production set it apart from conventional HCCs.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 6, 2010

Hips don't lie: Researchers find more accurate technique to determine sex of skeletal remains

A team of researchers from North Carolina State University has developed a new method for determining the sex of skeletal human remains with high accuracy. The technique uses three-dimensional imaging technology to analyze the shape and size of the pelvis, identifying over 20 key anatomical landmarks that can help determine a body's sex.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateJul 6, 2010

Bacterial diversity of Tablas de Daimiel studied for first time

Researchers studied the bacterial community structure in four environments of the Tablas de Daimiel National Park, revealing similarities and differences between them. The study found 265 new phylum groups, including those related to Proteobacteria, which are abundant in the superficial sediment sample.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAquatic Microbial Ecology·DateJul 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.

Want to slow aging? New research suggests it takes more than antioxidants

A new study published in Genetics found that mutations in 10 different genes of worms can extend lifespan without reducing oxidative stress. This discovery challenges the long-held notion that oxidative stress is responsible for aging and suggests a slow rate of metabolism may be key to increasing longevity.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateJul 6, 2010

Head and spine trauma from ATV accidents cost $3.24 billion annually

ATV accidents result in severe head and spine trauma, costing $3.24 billion annually, with children under 20 years old accounting for 42% of these injuries. The study highlights the need for improved ATV stability, increased helmet use, and rider training to reduce the risk of such accidents.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNeurosurgery·DateJul 6, 2010

Nano-sized light mill drives micro-sized disk

Researchers have created a nano-sized light mill motor that can control rotational speed and direction by tuning incident light waves. The motor's power density is high, and it can be used to drive micro-scale objects, enabling new applications in nanotechnology and biology.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 6, 2010

Competition is a double-edged sword for teenage girls

A study by Dr. David Hibbard and Dr. Duane Buhrmester found that competing to win is detrimental to teenage girls' social relationships and well-being, while competing to excel has no gender differences in its effects. Competing to excel benefits both genders, improving self-esteem and reducing depression.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJul 6, 2010

Extended use of anti-clotting drug helps some bedridden patients

A multi-institutional study found that extended use of anti-clotting drug enoxaparin significantly reduced the chances of blood clots in bedridden patients, especially those over 75 and female. The treatment also increased bleeding risk slightly.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 6, 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.

Searching for causes of neural disconnection in schizophrenia

Studies found higher and lower levels of genes regulating spine plasticity in individuals with schizophrenia. These alterations may contribute to layer-specific deficits in dendritic spines, a structural abnormality relevant to the disorder. Further research aims to develop new treatments targeting these disturbances.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 6, 2010

The long-term fate of the oil spill in the Atlantic

Researchers used computer simulations to study the possible spread of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Atlantic over a year. The study found that about 20% of the initial particles had been transported through the Straits of Florida and into the open Atlantic by October 2010.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·DateJul 6, 2010

Length of biological marker associated with risk of cancer

A new study reveals that shorter leukocyte telomere length is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing cancer and dying from cancer. Participants with the shortest telomere lengths had approximately three times the risk of cancer compared to those in the longest group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 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 TGen technology reduces storage needs and costs for genomic data

The Genomic SQueeZ (G-SQZ) compression technique developed by TGen can compress genomic sequencing data by up to 80 percent, reducing storage needs and costs. This technology allows for selective content access and maintaining the relative order of the data.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalBioinformatics·DateJul 6, 2010

TGen finds protein inhibitor revives chemotherapy for ovarian patients

Researchers at TGen have found a way to revive chemotherapy in ovarian cancer patients who no longer respond to conventional treatment. By inhibiting the CHEK1 protein, they were able to make these cells sensitive again to cisplatin, a widely used platinum-based chemotherapy drug.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalGynecologic Oncology·DateJul 6, 2010

Study measures single-molecule machines in action

A multidisciplinary team observes single-molecule interactions of bistable rotaxanes functioning in their native environment, enabling detailed studies of molecular machines. This breakthrough enables greater understanding of how they interact with their neighbors and might work together in nanoelectromechanical devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 6, 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.

Researchers identify factors behind blood-making stem cells

Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified three proteins that regulate blood cell production and one protein that inhibits it. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing novel therapies to treat diseases caused by abnormal blood-making stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 6, 2010

Lone whales shout to overcome noise

Research reveals that North American right whales adjust their calls in response to increased ocean noise levels, maintaining signal-to-noise ratio while incurring costs. This adaptation is crucial for successful communication in a noisy ocean, but its long-term effects on whale behavior and population health remain uncertain.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 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.

Diagnostic blood test can identify rare lung disease

Researchers have developed a diagnostic blood test that can identify lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare but serious lung disease affecting women. The test analyzes serum VEGF-D levels, showing high accuracy in diagnosing LAM, and may help screen for the disease in women with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJul 6, 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.

Map of herpes virus protein suggests a new drug therapy

Scientists have mapped the herpes virus protein complex that allows it to invade cells, revealing a new target for antiviral drugs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new therapeutics to restrict herpes virus access to mammalian cells.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJul 6, 2010

Use of local anesthetics in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers investigated the potential therapeutic effects of local anesthetics on experimental inflammatory bowel disease in rats. They found some improvement in macroscopic inflammation at the application site, but not supported by microscopic findings.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 6, 2010

Maternal diet and genes interact to affect heart development

Research suggests that a pregnant mother's diet can interact with her child's genetic predispositions to affect the type or severity of birth defects, including congenital heart disease. A high-fat diet has been shown to increase the risk of this condition in mice offspring, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet during pregnancy.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJul 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.

Reversible watermarking for digital images

Researchers developed a reversible watermarking system to verify the authenticity of digital images without modifying them. The system uses a Hash Message Authentication Code (HMAC) to embed and extract watermark bits, allowing for lossless data integrity verification.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Signal and Imaging Systems Engineering·DateJul 6, 2010

Eye movements and sight distance reveal how drivers negotiate winding roads

Drivers tend to look at a specific point on the lane marking when negotiating curves, with more time spent looking at the tangent point in shorter sight distances. A new study may lead to the development of an in-car warning system to prevent drivers from unintentionally departing from their lane.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalJournal of Vision·DateJul 6, 2010

Carbon emissions threaten fish populations

Researchers warn that rising CO2 levels could dramatically change the behavior of baby fish, making them more susceptible to predators and decreasing their chances of survival. This shift is expected to have serious implications for the sustainability of fish populations, threatening food security as a result.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 6, 2010

Elsevier announces new edition of Infectious Diseases

The new edition of Infectious Diseases provides comprehensive guidance on overcoming the latest clinical infectious disease challenges, including updates on H1N1 and avian influenza viruses. The book's editorial team offers regular content updates, case studies, and an interactive disease outbreak map.

SourceElsevier·JournalInfectious Diseases·DateJul 6, 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.

New study contradicts negative perceptions of menopause

A new study from the University of Sheffield found that social and psychological factors have a bigger impact on women's sex lives during menopause than previously thought. The research suggests that individual experiences vary greatly, with external factors like relationships and care-giving playing a significant role.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJournal of Health Psychology·DateJul 6, 2010

Gender gap persists at highest levels of math and science testing

Researchers found a persistent gender gap in math and science performance among the most talented seventh graders, with boys outnumbering girls by 3-to-1 at extremely high levels. However, the gap has narrowed considerably over time, and girls slightly outnumber boys at higher levels of verbal reasoning and writing ability.

SourceDuke University·JournalIntelligence·DateJul 6, 2010

Transformation optics make a U-turn for the better

Researchers from Berkeley Lab and UC Berkeley have developed a novel approach to transformation optics, allowing for the manipulation of near-field optical waves on uneven surfaces. This breakthrough enables the design of plasmonic devices such as beam splitters, shifters, and directional light emitters.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 6, 2010

Rhythm of life: Music shows potential in stroke rehabilitation

A Cochrane Systematic Review found that music therapy, specifically rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS), can improve walking speed and arm movements in stroke patients. RAS therapy was shown to be more effective than standard movement therapy, with an average improvement of 14 metres per minute.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJul 6, 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.

Recommendations for treatment of inherited lung disease are unjustified

A systematic review by Cochrane Researchers concludes that alpha-1 antitrypsin replacement therapy has no clinically important effect on lung function, may cause modest harm, and is extremely expensive. The treatment should not be recommended due to the lack of evidence and potential adverse effects.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJul 6, 2010

Bacterial communication encourages chronic, resistant ear infections

Researchers found that bacterial communication promotes persistence and resistance to antibiotics in ear infections caused by multiple bacteria species, particularly Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis. Disrupting this communication could lead to effective treatments for chronic ear infections.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateJul 6, 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.