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Science News for July 7, 2010


New retrieval method makes studying cancer proteins easier

Researchers developed a technique to isolate specific cancer proteins using a synthetic nanopolymer. The polymer-based metal-ion affinity capture (PolyMAC) method isolated phosphorylated proteins, which are highly associated with cancer, from a sea of other proteins. This breakthrough may aid in the development of new cancer drugs.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateJul 7, 2010

Pitt researchers find new proteins that regulate blood pressure, flow

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have identified a biochemical pathway regulating blood pressure, involving nitric oxide signaling and proteins thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) and CD47. Blocking this pathway could lead to novel blood pressure-regulating drugs.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalCardiovascular Research·DateJul 7, 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.

Pinpoint precision: Delivering a biochemical payload to 1 cell

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University create method for pinpoint delivery of molecules to individual cells, enabling targeted cancer treatment. The technique uses gold nanowires coated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha, which triggers specific cellular responses without affecting surrounding cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 7, 2010

Barrow scientist leads insula research

Barrow scientist A.D. Bud Craig is leading the global conversation about the insula, a hidden lobe of the brain involved in virtually every human emotion and behavior. The latest research indicates that the insula plays a crucial role in conditions such as addiction, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalBrain Structure and Function·DateJul 7, 2010

NASA to fly into hurricane research this summer

NASA's six-week GRIP mission will study the creation and rapid intensification of hurricanes, analyzing factors such as cloud droplet concentrations, air temperature, and wind speed. The mission aims to better understand how tropical storms form and develop into major hurricanes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 7, 2010

Genetically reprogrammed HSV given systemically shrinks distant sarcomas

A genetically reprogrammed herpes virus and an anti-vascular drug combination shrinks spreading distant sarcomas in mice, with significant tumor reduction and improved survival rates. Researchers achieved these results by using the virus systemically via injection, overcoming a major stumbling block in previous cancer treatments.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalGene Therapy·DateJul 7, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biologists identify a new clue into cellular aging

Researchers at UMass Medical School have discovered a new DAF-16 isoform that collaborates with other isoforms to regulate longevity and stress response in C. elegans. The newly found isoform, DAF-16d/f, works in concert with DAF-16a to promote organismal life span.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature·DateJul 7, 2010

Genetic ancestry data improve diagnosis in asthma and lung disease

A study found that genetic ancestry data correlates to physiologic measures, providing new evidence for personalized medicine. The research used genetic tools to estimate individual genetic ancestry and found a significant association between ancestry and lung function.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 7, 2010

Decline in international medical graduates exacerbates shortage of general surgeons

A decline in international medical graduates is creating a shortage of general surgeons, threatening patient access to quality surgical care. The study found that rural areas are particularly affected, with a 40% decline in the number of rural surgeons and a projected shortage of 1,875 general surgeons by 2020.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJul 7, 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.

A bittersweet warning for women with gestational diabetes

A Tel Aviv University study finds that women who fail the glucose challenge test have a nearly 50% chance of developing Type II diabetes within ten years. The test's predictive power highlights the need for personalized counseling and intervention to prevent disease onset.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalDiabetic Medicine·DateJul 7, 2010

Racism shapes African-American women's views on depression care

A study of African-American women in Portland, Ore. reveals that racism and the expectation to be a 'strong black woman' are significant obstacles to depression care. The researchers recommend that health providers better understand how racism affects patient experiences.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 7, 2010

What plant genes tell us about crop domestication

A QTL mapping study reveals that only modest genetic modifications are needed to convert a wild plant to a crop, with some major transitions achievable by a single change. The genetic evidence supports the archeological view of gradual and dispersed domestication.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateJul 7, 2010

Homicide and suicide rates among mentally ill on the decline

Recent figures show a decrease in homicides and suicides among mentally ill individuals in England and Wales. The study attributes the decline to reduced drug misuse, particularly among young people with mental illness. Suicide rates have also fallen overall, with notable decreases in younger age groups.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateJul 7, 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.

Study: Rituals that target customers not always good for business

Research by University of Illinois marketing expert Cele Otnes found that businesses' attempts to create memorable experiences through rituals can have negative consequences for customers, making them feel trapped or embarrassed. Optional rituals offer leeway to satisfy customers' comfort zones, but embedded rituals can deter repeat bu...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJul 7, 2010

1 in 4 Californian children have never seen a dentist, study finds

A study by UCLA researchers found nearly 25% of California kids have never seen a dentist, with disparities existing across race and insurance type. Children with private insurance had higher chances of visiting the dentist, while those on Medicaid or CHIP saw less frequent care.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 7, 2010

'Business as usual' crop development won't satisfy future demand

Researchers find that crop yields are unlikely to meet future demands due to climate change, and that elevated carbon dioxide levels result in only half the expected yield increase. SoyFACE facility is conducting novel studies on this topic using open-field environments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAnnual Review of Plant Biology·DateJul 7, 2010

Knee arthritis? Flexible options can help keep you active

A review published in JAAOS examines surgical and non-surgical treatments for younger patients with knee arthritis, emphasizing the importance of tailored treatment programs. The study recommends flexible management strategies, including activity modification, medication, and alternative therapies.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJul 7, 2010

Newborn stars discovered in dark cosmic cloud

Astronomers have detected a wave of massive star formation within the M17 SWex dark cloud, revealing 488 newly forming stars, including 200 blue-white class B stars. The discovery sheds light on how and when massive stars form, with theories suggesting an expanding shock wave or later formation may be necessary.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 7, 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.

LSUHSC awarded $4 million to understand effect of THC on HIV

A $4 million grant will be used to investigate the effects of THC on HIV, with a focus on anti-inflammatory and viral suppression mechanisms. The research aims to develop targeted therapeutic interventions to improve HIV disease progression.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateJul 7, 2010

Biologists find a way to lower tumor risk in stem cell therapies

Researchers at UC San Diego identify new signaling pathway critical for embryonic stem cells' self-propagation, finding that inhibiting this pathway reduces teratoma formation. This breakthrough enables a potential solution to the major obstacle in developing human embryonic stem cell therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2010

The legend of good cop/bad cop

Researchers found that small-scale corruption in the South African police force is commonplace and often condoned by those involved. Police officers frequently accept gifts from residents, which should not be seen as bribes but rather as a social gesture to build relationships.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·DateJul 7, 2010

Can aspirin prolong a healthy life?

The ASPREE study aims to assess whether aspirin can prolong a life free of physical disability and dementia in healthy older people. The trial will enroll 6,500 participants in the US and Australia and monitor changes in health markers, functional ability, and cognitive function over five years.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateJul 7, 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.

Researchers demystifying complex cellular communications hubs found in sensory neurons

A Japanese team of scientists has identified a long-elusive enzyme necessary for the proper regulation of primary cilia, which serve as communication hubs in sensory neurons. The discovery may aid in developing therapies for diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and polycystic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 7, 2010

Black hole blows big bubble

Astronomers have discovered the most powerful pair of jets from a stellar black hole, blowing a huge bubble of hot gas. The discovery reveals that some black holes can release at least as much energy in the form of collimated jets as radiation, leading to an expansion of the surrounding interstellar gas.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateJul 7, 2010

Scripps Research scientists uncover previously unknown natural mechanism that controls cocaine use

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified a specific microRNA that controls cocaine consumption and addiction. MicroRNA-212 was found to be increased in the brains of rats with extended access to cocaine, leading to reduced addictive behavior. This discovery suggests a potential new method for treating cocaine addiction.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 7, 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.

Study finds patients benefit from thorough discussion of recommended operations

Researchers found that extending the time spent on informed consent discussions leads to greater patient comprehension, with a stronger impact seen in patients who had 'repeat back' discussions. Additionally, factors such as race, ethnicity, age, and type of surgical procedure were associated with improved comprehension.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJul 7, 2010

New biofuels processing method for mobile facilities

Researchers at Purdue University have created a new method to process biomass into biofuels, reducing transportation costs and increasing efficiency. The fast-hydropyrolysis-hydrodeoxygenation process uses hydrogen derived from natural gas or solar power, producing liquid fuel with high energy density.

SourcePurdue University·DateJul 7, 2010

Predicting relationship breakups with a word-association task

Researchers found that volunteers who associated their partner with bad things had a higher risk of separation. The new test did better at predicting breakup than traditional methods, providing insight into people's feelings about their partners.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 7, 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.

First US surgery to compare NOTES vs. laparoscopy

A landmark study in the US has compared natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) to traditional laparoscopic surgery for gallbladder removal. The trial aims to assess safety, efficacy, pain levels, and cosmetic outcomes of NOTES, which may reduce post-operative infection, hernia, scarring, and pain.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 7, 2010

September-October GSA Bulletin highlights

The September-October issue of GSA Bulletin explores various geological topics, including fast erosion during floods and improving the Earth's geological time scale fidelity. A study on the West Mariana Ridge reveals new insights into its geomorphology and processes.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateJul 7, 2010

York U autism-related study discovers how drug interferes with neuronal cell function

A York University study discovered that the drug misoprostol interferes with neuronal cell communication by increasing calcium ions, which reduces cell extensions and prevents cells from communicating. This finding may have implications for understanding neurodevelopmental defects associated with autism.

SourceYork University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateJul 7, 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.

Study shows race, not experience, impacts hiring in sports world

A new study from North Carolina State University found that race, not experience, influences hiring decisions in the sports industry. Black applicants with identical resumes received lower ratings for overall likeability and competence compared to their white counterparts.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJul 7, 2010

Inactivity 'no contributor' to childhood obesity epidemic

A new study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood found that physical activity has no impact on weight change in children, but weight loss can lead to reduced physical activity. This suggests that addressing childhood obesity through reducing caloric intake and portion size may be more effective than increasing physical activity.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateJul 7, 2010

New system to reduce heating costs in cold climates

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new type of heat pump that can maintain efficiency in extreme cold climates, cutting heating bills in half. The innovation uses a scroll compressor and precise refrigerant flow control to reduce energy losses.

SourcePurdue University·DateJul 7, 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.

First research trip across western Amazon yields surprising results

A recent research trip across the western Amazon revealed surprising results, with protected areas and indigenous reserves showing promising signs of effectiveness. The study also highlights the need for sustainable growth that balances economic development with environmental protection.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJul 7, 2010

Rice program takes on protein puzzle

Rice University researchers have developed a computer program that accurately simulates protein folding dramatically faster than previous methods. The new technique allows scientists to study the roots of diseases caused by proteins that fold incorrectly, which is crucial for understanding diseases such as Alzheimer's and cystic fibrosis.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJul 7, 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.

Study sheds light on triglyceride metabolism

A study published in Cell Metabolism identifies GPIHBP1 as the key protein responsible for transporting lipoprotein lipase (LPL) into capillaries. This discovery offers new insights into the causes of hypertriglyceridemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 7, 2010

Cholesterol's other way out

Researchers have discovered a new route for delivering cholesterol into the feces, revising understanding of cholesterol loss. This finding suggests that an alternative pathway may deliver cholesterol directly to the intestine through the bloodstream, potentially reducing side effects associated with bile-based cholesterol delivery.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 7, 2010

Hospital hyperglycemia may predict future diabetes

Researchers found a significant association between acute illness complicated with hyperglycaemia and the development of type II diabetes or glucose intolerance. Patients with hospital-acquired hyperglycaemia during critical illness are at increased risk of developing diabetes, suggesting regular monitoring is necessary.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateJul 7, 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.

Amid the murk of 'gut flora,' vitamin D receptor emerges as a key player

The study found that the vitamin D receptor helps regulate bacterial activity, responds to cues, and counters their presence. It also plays a key role in defending against Salmonella infection and squelching inflammation by binding to NF-Kappa B and preventing it from activating other inflammatory molecules.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJul 7, 2010

Society of Interventional Radiology advances global definition of specialty, benefits patients

The Society of Interventional Radiology has issued a global statement defining interventional radiology, emphasizing its importance in medical care and outlining its identity and scope. The statement, supported by 41 international societies, provides a universal framework for IR practices worldwide.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateJul 7, 2010

URI researcher: Teens drink more during summer before college

A recent study by URI researcher Mark Wood found that teens tend to increase their alcohol consumption during the summer before entering college. The study's results suggest that parents who monitor their children's activities, provide emotional support, and express clear disapproval of alcohol use can help decrease drinking and relate...

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateJul 7, 2010

ARS study eyes egg quality and composition

An ARS study found that there is no substantial quality difference between organically and conventionally produced eggs, contrary to common claims on cartons. The study also revealed differences in size and composition among various types of eggs, but these did not affect overall quality.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalPoultry Science·DateJul 7, 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.