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Science News for June 2, 2010


Harvard's Wyss Institute uses nature's design principles to create specialized nanofabrics

Bioengineers at the Wyss Institute have developed a new technology to regenerate heart and other tissues by replicating natural design principles. The resulting protein nanofabrics can be customized to generate specific properties, making them ideal for tissue engineering scaffolds and high-performance textiles.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 2, 2010

Financial literary bailout for the younger generation

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Affairs found that only 27% of young adults (23-28 years old) can answer basic questions about interest rates, inflation, and risk diversification. This lack of financial literacy is influenced by parental education levels and financial habits.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Consumer Affairs·DateJun 2, 2010

NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell physician-scientists present at 2010 American Urological Meeting

Physician-scientists from NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center present several studies at the 2010 American Urological Meeting, including a potential breakthrough in using 5-alpha reductase inhibitors to improve PSA test accuracy for prostate cancer diagnosis. Additionally, they present results on robotic surgery ...

SourceNew York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center·DateJun 2, 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.

Results from a study testing methylphenidate for cancer-related fatigue

Researchers tested methylphenidate, a psychostimulant medication, to treat cancer-related fatigue. While the study found no significant difference between treatment and placebo groups, there was a trend of improved satisfaction with treatment among patients receiving methylphenidate, particularly those with stage III/IV cancer.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 2, 2010

Physicsts reveal how to cope with frustration

Researchers have simulated frustration in a smallest possible quantum system, revealing its relation to entanglement. The team created a fully controllable frustrated magnetic network with three spins, allowing them to manipulate interactions using laser beams.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 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.

Flow in Earth's mantle moves mountains

Scientists propose that mantle flow, rather than plate boundaries, drives uplift and volcanism in mobile belts. The study identifies two mountain ranges raised almost entirely by mantle flow in Spain and France.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2010

BSSA tip sheet for June 2010 issue

A revised seismotectonic model for the California Central Coast identifies new faults and reinterprets known ones, highlighting the need for further study to understand seismic hazards. The study also examines how large earthquakes can trigger other large earthquakes on nearby faults, a phenomenon observed in paleoseismic records.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJun 2, 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.

Red squirrels: Altruists or self-serving survivalists?

A University of Alberta researcher discovered female red squirrels adopt abandoned babies with common genes, ensuring the continuation of their gene pool. This behavior, initially thought to be unique to social animals, reveals a rare instance of altruism in solitary creatures like red squirrels.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2010

New docs linked to death spike in July

Fatal medication errors peak in July among new medical residents, especially in counties with teaching hospitals. Increased supervision and education on medication safety may reduce these errors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 2, 2010

Snuffing out smoking in those with HIV

The study found that 40-60% of Americans living with HIV/AIDS are smokers, twice the rate in the general population. Researchers emphasize the need for effective interventions to help these individuals quit smoking.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 2, 2010

Study: Prostate cancer patients' weight linked to tumor size

A six-year study by researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found that heavier prostate cancer patients have larger tumors. The study of 3,327 patients revealed a direct correlation between BMI and tumor volume, suggesting that obesity may contribute to the aggressive nature of the disease.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJun 2, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Telecommuters with flextime stay balanced up to 19 hours longer

Research from Brigham Young University reveals that employees who telecommute and use flexible schedules balance their work and family life better than office workers. The study found that telecommuters can maintain a healthy balance for 57 hours per week, compared to 38 hours for office workers.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateJun 2, 2010

Pride, prejudice and the 'Darcin effect'

A team of researchers from the University of Liverpool identified a male pheromone called darcin, which attracts females and is responsible for learned preference for specific males in mice. Darcin consistently doubled the time spent near a male's scent and was shown to stimulate female memory and attraction.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateJun 2, 2010

Burger diet boosts kids' asthma and wheeze risk

A large international study found that a burger diet may boost children's risk of asthma and wheeze, particularly in developed nations. Conversely, a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish appears to reduce this risk. The study, published in Thorax, analyzed data from over 50,000 children aged 8-12 from 20 countries.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThorax·DateJun 2, 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.

Nature cover study provides new standards for reliable fisheries

A new study in Nature highlights the importance of population diversity within species for maintaining stable fisheries. Without sufficient diversity, fisheries would close more frequently, leading to economic instability. The study emphasizes the need to preserve habitat networks to maintain population diversity.

SourceCommunication Partnership for Science and the Sea·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2010

AMIA members manage HITECH stimulus grant awards

AMIA members receive workforce and SHARP grants to develop curriculum and train informatics specialists. The grants support the adoption of health IT and electronic health records, aiming to create a high-performing healthcare system.

SourceAmerican Medical Informatics Association·DateJun 2, 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.

A doctor's referral for better fitness

Research by NiCole Keith highlights the need for physicians to consider physical activity levels a vital sign, similar to height and blood pressure. Regular discussions about exercise habits can help reduce stigma and promote healthy behaviors, leading to better weight management outcomes.

SourceIndiana University·DateJun 2, 2010

Single-molecule manipulation for the masses

A new instrument, Centrifuge Force Microscope (CFM), uses centrifugal force to manipulate molecules, offering a low-cost and simple approach to single-molecule manipulation. This technique enables researchers to study the interactions of thousands of molecules simultaneously.

SourceHarvard University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJun 2, 2010

Mutant gene link to West Nile virus in horses

A study by University of Adelaide scientists has confirmed that a mutated OAS1 gene increases the vulnerability of horses to the West Nile virus. The findings suggest that genetic mechanisms play a similar role in humans and horses, highlighting the potential for screening valuable horses for the presence of the mutation.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2010

Bone drug suppresses wandering tumor cells in breast cancer patients

A study published in The Lancet Oncology found that zoledronic acid reduced the number of tumor cells in bone marrow at surgery and improved bone density in women with stage II or III breast cancer. The treatment may also help fight certain types of breast tumors directly.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJun 2, 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.

Age gap really does matter

A Northwestern University study reveals that successful academics struggle to mentor students during the latter half of their careers. The research, analyzing 60 years of mathematicians and their advisees, found that mentors who advised fewer students had more successful protégés.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2010

Atmospheric scientists start monthlong air sampling campaign

Researchers will collect data on aerosol particles in the Sacramento Valley from June 2-28, using airplanes, ground instruments, and weather balloons. The goal is to improve computer models simulating climate change by understanding aerosols' role in scattering and absorbing sunlight.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJun 2, 2010

First paper 'dipstick' test for determining blood type

The new 'dipstick' test uses a special paper strip with antibodies to accurately determine blood type, promising to save millions of lives through successful blood transfusions. The cost-effective method could be particularly useful in veterinary medicine for typing animals' blood in the field.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJun 2, 2010

Nanoparticle PSA test predicts if prostate cancer will return

A new ultrasensitive PSA test using nanoparticle technology can detect low levels of PSA in the blood that indicate cancer recurrence. The test may provide early and more accurate answers, allowing doctors to act at the earliest and most sensitive time for patients' long-term survival.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJun 2, 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.

Sun-induced skin cancer: new discovery permits doctors to assess genetic risk

Researchers discovered a chain of molecular events that increase skin cancer risk, enabling doctors to assess genetic risk and develop new sunscreens. The study may lead to genetically tested sunscreens and personalized medicine for individuals carrying MC1R gene changes.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 2, 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.

Marmots can teach us about obesity

A Colorado State University biologist discovered a nutrient that activates a neurological pathway driving food intake in hibernating marmots. By releasing the molecule AICAR, researchers found the animals' appetite is stimulated when energy levels within cells are low, mimicking human obesity and eating disorders.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 2, 2010

Nanosponge drug delivery system more effective than direct injection

Researchers developed a nanosponge-based delivery system that is three to five times more effective than direct injection in reducing tumor growth. The system uses biodegradable particles with predictable release characteristics, making it an attractive alternative for targeted cancer therapy.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 2, 2010

On a roll: Designing the next rover to explore Mars

A new computer model developed by NC State University researchers allows engineers to test different vehicle designs for a Mars rover. The model takes into account various conditions such as wind and terrain, enabling informed decisions about the final design characteristics.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Spacecraft and Rockets·DateJun 2, 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.

New culture dish could advance human embryonic stem cell research

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new synthetic stem cell growth matrix that overcomes major challenges in human embryonic stem cell research. The new coating, made from a water-soluble gel, has been shown to support long-term growth and maintenance of pluripotency in human embryonic stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 2, 2010

Scientists clarify origins of potato germplasm Neo-Tuberosum

A recent study reveals that the Neo-Tuberosum potato germplasm has its roots in Chile, challenging the long-held notion of its origins in the Andes. The Chilean potato's adaptation to long-day conditions made it a pre-adapted species for growth in other regions.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJun 2, 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.

NC State to play key role in DOE team on nuclear energy innovation

The Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) uses advanced computer models to explore innovations in nuclear plant engineering and design, aiming to optimize safety and efficiency. North Carolina State University is playing a key leadership role in the program, receiving approximately $11 million in funding ove...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJun 2, 2010

The dilemma of plants fighting infections

Plants with enhanced disease resistance, like mouse ear cress, produce fewer and smaller leaves, but excel against pathogens. This tradeoff allows for coexistence of large, vulnerable plants with small, protected ones in nature.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2010

First images of heavy electrons in action

Using a new technique, researchers have captured the first images of electrons with extraordinary mass under certain conditions. The study reveals the origin of an electronic phase transition in a uranium compound, providing direct experimental evidence that electrons interact with atoms rather than behaving as waves.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 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.

Like the writer, Agatha was a brief mystery

Tropical Storm Agatha made landfall in El Salvador and Guatemala, and its remnants are now tracked by NASA. The National Hurricane Center reports a near-zero percent chance of reorganization, solving the forecasting mystery.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 2, 2010

Einstein awarded NIH grant to study drug-resistant TB

Researchers will investigate person-to-person transmission of XDR-TB using advanced epidemiologic techniques and social network analysis. The findings could alter public health approaches for controlling the XDR-TB epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2010

Despite efforts, not all Latino immigrants accepted as 'white,' sociological study shows

A new sociological study reveals that many Latino immigrants in the US face discrimination based on skin color, with relatively darker-skinned individuals earning less than their lighter-skinned counterparts. The study found that some Latinos attempt to assert a white racial identity, but those with darker skin and higher levels of int...

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 2, 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.

'Brain pacemaker' for Parkinson's disease equally effective in 2 regions of brain

A major study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective treatment for Parkinson's disease, with similar improvements in motor function regardless of the targeted region. The study also revealed small differences in non-motor effects such as mood and cognitive function.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2010

New medics in death spike

A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that fatal medication errors peak in July at teaching hospitals where new medical residents are on duty. The authors suggest re-evaluating responsibilities and increasing education on medication safety to reduce errors.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 2, 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.

Neural tissue contains imbalanced levels of proteins, U-M study finds

Researchers found neural tissue has imbalanced levels of proteins, specifically torsinA and torsinB, which may explain why certain diseases affect specific organs. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of how genetic mutations impact different cell types.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2010

UTHealth and UH awarded Alzheimer's research grant

Researchers at UTHealth and UH will use nanotechnology and new imaging techniques to study the effects of Amyloid-Beta on the brain. The goal is to create new intravenous delivery mechanisms for gamma secretase modulators, which could potentially protect against Alzheimer's development.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJun 2, 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.

Findings suggest optimal dose

A national study found that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment may be a viable alternative to routine intubation and surfactant administration in preterm infants. Infants treated with CPAP required less frequent intubation, fewer days on ventilators, and fewer steroid drugs after birth.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2010

UT Southwestern investigators perform head-to-head comparison of incontinence treatments

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center compared the outcomes of two surgical procedures designed to alleviate symptoms of stress urinary incontinence. Both procedures, transvaginal sling and transobturator midurethral sling, appear to be similarly effective in women up to 12 months after the procedures were performed.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2010

Arctic ice at low point compared to recent geologic history

Researchers compiled a comprehensive history of Arctic ice using sediment cores and proxy data, concluding that the current extent is at its lowest point for at least the last few thousand years. The study's findings suggest the volume of ice is shrinking much faster than its surface area, highlighting a troubling trend in climate change.

SourceOhio State University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateJun 2, 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.

Meditation reduces the emotional impact of pain

A new study found that meditation lessens the perception of pain in individuals with a higher level of meditation experience. This method may have potential as an additional therapy option for treating chronic pain.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPain·DateJun 2, 2010

Tidy house, fitter body?

A new Indiana University study reveals that the inside of a person's home has a significant impact on their physical activity levels. Researchers found that home conditions, such as dusting and cleaning, were more strongly linked to physical activity than external factors like sidewalks and lighting.

SourceIndiana University·DateJun 2, 2010

Grassroots programs to encourage minority organ donation prove successful

A new study found that grassroots awareness and education programs have more than doubled minority organ donations since their inception. The National Minority Organ Tissue Transplant Education Program has increased the percentage of minority donors to 35%.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 2, 2010