Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 25, 2010


Mount Sinai researchers move closer to a universal influenza vaccine

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have developed a new influenza vaccine that targets the HA globular head, bringing science closer to a universal influenza vaccine. The vaccine was shown to be effective against multiple strains in mice, with all vaccinated mice surviving and unvaccinated mice dying.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalmBio·DateMay 25, 2010

The star of Africa's savanna ecosystems may be the lowly termite

Research found that termite mounds contribute significantly to grassland productivity in central Kenya by enhancing plant and animal activity locally and maximizing ecosystem-wide productivity. The evenly distributed colonies of termites create an optimized network of plant and animal output.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 25, 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.

Study: Benchmarks and 'leapfrogs' drive up CEO pay

A study found that CEO pay increased significantly over 20 years, driven by 'leapfrogs' who receive large raises, affecting peer groups and company pay. The research suggests that benchmarking practices contribute to the surge in executive compensation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateMay 25, 2010

DOE JGI produces new QC tool for microbial genomes

The DOE JGI's new QC tool, GenePRIMP, helps check the quality of microbial genomic DNA sequences, reducing errors in gene annotations. With its ability to identify and correct anomalies, GenePRIMP facilitates comparative analysis and improves the overall accuracy of structural annotations.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 25, 2010

New study confirms link between nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and liver cancer

A recent study by the Cleveland Clinic reveals that patients with NASH-induced cirrhosis are at an equal risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma as those with HCV-cirrhosis. Researchers found three key factors associated with HCC development in the NASH population: older age, higher BMI, and lifetime alcohol consumption.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateMay 25, 2010

American Sociological Association launches first-of-its-kind teaching tool

The American Sociological Association (ASA) has launched the Teaching Resources and Innovations Library for Sociology (TRAILS), an online platform offering peer-reviewed teaching resources, syllabi, and class activities. The tool aims to improve the way professors are evaluated and valued for their teaching skills.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateMay 25, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A profile of teenage pregnancy in Spain

A Spanish study finds that teenage mothers tend to emancipate earlier, enter romantic relationships, and experience career disruptions. The study also reveals a decline in age of onset for sexual activity and contraceptive use, leading to a significant increase in teen pregnancy.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·DateMay 25, 2010

Outstanding in their field effect

Researchers at Rice University have discovered thin films of nanotubes created with ink-jet printers can be used to make field-effect transistors. The technique allows for the creation of digital electronics on flexible substrates, with potential applications in raincoats and other devices.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 25, 2010

NYPH/WCMC physician-scientists present at APA 163rd Annual Meeting

Physician-scientists from NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center present research findings on suicide prevention, with funding prioritized for post-hospital discharge care. They also explore the relationship between music and creativity through the analysis of composer Frederic Chopin's life.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·DateMay 25, 2010

Major step ahead for cryptography

A new encryption scheme developed by Professor Nigel Smart allows for computations to be performed on encrypted data, enabling secure storage and access of sensitive information. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as medical care research and electronic voting, while maintaining patient privacy.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMay 25, 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.

MRI research highlights high-risk atherosclerotic plaque hidden in the vessel wall

Researchers used MRI to identify high-risk atherosclerotic plaques in an animal model, which could lead to non-invasive diagnosis and treatment of patients. The study found that MRI can accurately detect stable and unstable plaques, including those with enhanced gadolinium uptake associated with inflammation.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Imaging·DateMay 25, 2010

Supermassive black holes may frequently roam galaxy centers

Researchers found that the supermassive black hole at the center of M87 is displaced from its expected position, likely due to a previous merger or the iconic jet's push. This discovery could have significant implications for understanding galaxy formation and evolution.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 25, 2010

'Nature's batteries' may have helped power early lifeforms

Researchers found pyrophosphite, a molecule similar to ATP, could transfer energy without enzymes. This discovery suggests that pyrophosphite played a role in the emergence of complex biology and potentially provided power for early lifeforms.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalChemical Communications·DateMay 25, 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.

Study sheds light on how marine animals survive stress

A Tufts University study sheds light on how marine animals like Galapagos iguanas survive stress, revealing the crucial role of negative feedback in coping with 'fight or flight' responses. The research also has implications for understanding wildlife responses to environmental disasters and oil spills.

SourceTufts University·DateMay 25, 2010

Nearby black hole is feeble and unpredictable

The Andromeda Galaxy's supermassive black hole, M31*, is surprisingly quiet and faint in X-ray light, deviating from expectations. A decade-long study by Chandra reveals that the black hole underwent a significant outburst of X-rays in 2006.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateMay 25, 2010

Vaccination key to preventing childhood pneumonia in sub-Saharan Africa

Researchers found RSV was the predominant virus detected among infants and children hospitalized with severe pneumonia in Kenya. The study suggests that RSV vaccination may offer considerable public health benefit, potentially reducing all-cause clinically severe or very severe pneumonia admissions by one-third.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJAMA·DateMay 25, 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.

Protein regulates enzyme linked to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identified a protein that regulates the accumulation of an enzyme linked to Alzheimer's disease. Increasing levels of this protein may prevent the progression of the neurodegenerative disorder.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 25, 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.

Antiviral therapy impacts esophageal varices in HCV-induced cirrhosis

Researchers found that sustained virologic response (SVR) prevents esophageal varices in patients with compensated hepatitis C (HCV)-induced cirrhosis. This study suggests that endoscopic surveillance can be safely delayed or avoided in these patients, reducing unnecessary invasive procedures.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateMay 25, 2010

Stem-cell disruption induces skull deformity, UR study shows

Researchers at URMC discovered a defect in cellular pathways regulating bone formation at the stem cell level, leading to premature closure of skull sutures and craniosynostosis. This finding sheds light on the complex system controlling stem cell fate and has implications for understanding skeletal disorders and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 25, 2010

NIH awards $10M to Einstein for diabetes research

Einstein College of Medicine receives significant NIH funding to continue its Diabetes Research and Training Center, supporting research into central nervous system role in diabetes, epigenetics, and diabetic complications. The grant enables the development of new therapies for prevention or treatment of diabetes.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateMay 25, 2010

Model developed for manipulating vitamin D levels in calves

Agricultural Research Service scientists have developed a new model to manipulate vitamin D levels in young calves, which could help establish the optimal amount needed for growth and health. The model uses vitamin D injections to control levels in the bloodstream of neonatal dairy calves.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateMay 25, 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.

MSU environmental scholar heads into heart of the Amazon

MSU environmental scholar Bob Walker leads research expedition along western Transamazon Highway to study the impact of tree loss on the Amazon. The team will document logging activity and interview workers in the logging industry and longtime residents about the effects of development.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMay 25, 2010

Pressure testing tiny cell samples

Researchers have developed a new technique to study the structural properties of tissues by sucking cells into a pipette, providing information on adhesion and elasticity. This approach complements existing methods and allows for measurements on living tissue in its natural environment.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 25, 2010

CPR-training rates low in Toronto

A recent survey found that only 6% of Toronto high schools train students to use an AED and perform CPR. Despite the benefits of increased survival rates, many students lack this essential skill.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 25, 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.

Better synchronization helps fish deal with predator threat

Researchers discovered that shoaling fish coordinate their movements more frequently when under threat to reduce the risk of being targeted. This 'oddity effect' drives better synchronization in group movement, making it harder for predators to single out individual targets.

SourceUniversity of York·DateMay 25, 2010

Self-injurious behavior in adolescents and the PLoS Medicine editorial

Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) is a common practice amongst adolescents, with medical providers uniquely positioned to detect its presence. Janis Whitlock's article discusses the epidemiology and care of adolescents undertaking NSSI, highlighting the need for standard assessment practices and effective treatment regimes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 25, 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.

Bacteria as a predicter of colorectal cancer

Researchers found that specific bacterial signatures were associated with polyps, early lesions that can develop into colon cancer. The study suggests the development of non-invasive screening tests and diet-based prevention regimens to reduce CRC risk.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMay 25, 2010

Graphane yields new potential

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to extract hydrogen atoms from graphane, creating spaces that resemble quantum dots. This breakthrough enables precise control over the semiconducting properties of quantum dots, with potential applications in advanced optics, single-molecule sensing, and nanoscale circuitry.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 25, 2010

Use of lubricants with anal sex could increase risk of HIV

Research suggests that using lubricants during receptive anal intercourse can increase the risk of rectal sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. A study involving nearly 900 men and women found that those who used lubricants were three times more likely to have a rectal STI.

SourceMicrobicides 2010 (International Conference on Microbicides)·DateMay 25, 2010

Virtual Romanesque monuments being created

Researchers in Spain have developed a method to create highly accurate three-dimensional models of historical buildings using laser scanners and software. This technology reduces the time spent on field work by up to 75% while capturing thousands of times more information than conventional methods.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Cultural Heritage·DateMay 25, 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.

Saving rainforests may help reduce poverty

A new study by Georgia State University professor Paul J. Ferraro found that saving rainforests and protecting national parks reduced poverty in Costa Rica and Thailand in the long term. The research suggests conservation efforts may provide economic opportunities through tourism and infrastructure development.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2010

A*STAR, UK unite to fight infectious disease

Six collaborative research projects aim to develop treatments, vaccines, or antimicrobial products for gastric flu, hepatitis B, dengue fever, and tuberculosis. Researchers will work together to shed light on bacterial signaling pathways and train immune cells to overcome viral infections.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·DateMay 25, 2010

Rudy J. Castellani, Jr., M.D., receives 2010 Alzheimer Award

Dr. Castellani's work challenged the traditional view of Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis and highlighted the beneficial effects of amyloid formation. He received the award for his outstanding contribution to understanding the neuroprotective role of amyloid-β protein precursor and amyloid-β.

SourceIOS Press·DateMay 25, 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.

Met Office and NOC enhance ocean observatory

The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) has partnered with the Met Office to upgrade the Porcupine Abyssal Plain sustained observatory (PAP-SO), a key European ocean observatory. This collaboration aims to advance scientific knowledge of the ocean and improve climate prediction by integrating meteorological and ocean data.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·DateMay 25, 2010

Supermassive black holes may frequently roam galaxy centers

A team of researchers discovered that a supermassive black hole at the center of the most massive local galaxy, M87, is displaced from its expected location. The finding suggests that supermassive black holes may be commonly offset from their host galaxy centers due to previous mergers or interactions with jets.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateMay 25, 2010

20th century one of driest in 9 centuries for northwest Africa

Researchers used tree-ring data to reconstruct northwest Africa's climate history, finding frequent and severe droughts during the 13th-16th centuries and late 20th century. The region's 20th-century drying trend matches climate models' predictions, while regional drought patterns differ across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateMay 25, 2010

Newly discovered gene variants lead to autism and mental retardation

Researchers at Heidelberg University Hospital have identified new mutations in the SHANK2 gene that contribute to autism and mental retardation. The study found that a correct inner structure of nerve cell synapses is necessary for normal language, social competence, and cognitive development.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 25, 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.

Study finds high level of bacteria in bottled water in Canada

A Montreal study reveals that more than 70 percent of bottled water samples contain heterotrophic bacteria counts above the recommended limits set by the United States Pharmacopeia. High microbial counts were found in several famous brands, with some exceeding 100 times the permitted limit.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMay 25, 2010

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals pose cancer risk

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine highlight the carcinogenic effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can cause harm during organ formation. EDCs, such as bisphenol A, have been linked to increased cancer rates, obesity and infertility.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalNature Reviews Endocrinology·DateMay 25, 2010

IRMA: Research on lubricant safety very past due

New research from the Microbicide Trials Network indicates that some lubricants have toxic effects on cells and rectal tissue. The study's findings support IRMA's calls for safer lubricant options, emphasizing the importance of condom use with compatible lubricants to prevent HIV transmission.

SourceInternational Rectal Microbicide Advocates·DateMay 25, 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.

E. coli 0157:H7 present but not common in wildlife of nation's salad bowl

Researchers from UC Davis Health have found E. coli O157:H7 in fecal samples of wildlife species common to California's Central Coast region, including cowbirds, coyotes, crows, mice, and feral pigs. While the presence of the bacterium is rare, it suggests there are potential sources of pathogen movement that need to be assessed.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateMay 25, 2010

Parents' physical inactivity influences children

A new study from the University of Bristol reveals that parents' physical inactivity can influence their children's TV viewing habits. The research found that higher parental TV viewing was associated with an increased risk of high levels of TV viewing for boys and girls.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMay 25, 2010

More 'good' cholesterol is not always good for your health

A new study reveals that high levels of 'good' HDL cholesterol may not be beneficial for all patients and can even increase the risk of recurrent coronary events. Researchers identified a subgroup of patients with elevated HDL cholesterol and CRP who are at high risk, suggesting that genetics and environmental factors influence the pro...

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateMay 25, 2010

Microbial team may be culprit in colony collapse disorder

Scientists have identified a synergistic relationship between a fungal pathogen and RNA viruses from the family Dicistroviridae as contributing factors to Colony Collapse Disorder. The presence of these pathogens in sick colonies is a strong predictor of collapse, with higher levels of the fungus compromising gut wall integrity.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMay 25, 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.

Visually guided laser may be viable treatment for abnormal heartbeat

A new laser-balloon catheter successfully interrupted irregular electrical pulses in patients and pigs, offering a potential new treatment for abnormal heartbeats. The treatment achieved 100% accuracy in clinical trials and had long-lasting effects, making it a promising alternative to traditional ablation procedures.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 25, 2010

The little things count: Termites hold the reins in African savanna

Research by Robert M. Pringle and Todd M. Palmer reveals that termite mounds significantly enhance plant and animal productivity at local levels, while their even distribution maximizes ecosystem-wide biomass. The ordered distribution of these mounds creates an optimized network of plant and animal output.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 25, 2010

Adolescents cope with mental illness stigmas, report CWRU researchers

A recent study found that at least 90% of adolescents with mental illnesses reported experiencing stigma, leading to feelings of shame and isolation. Parents and schools can play a crucial role in mitigating these stigmas by promoting acceptance and inclusivity.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateMay 25, 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.

'Obese' BMI does not harm current health of young adults, study says

Researchers discovered little difference in current health status between normal-weight and overweight people across all age groups. The study also found that people with a BMI in the overweight range are generally not at a higher risk for current health problems compared to those of normal weight, regardless of age.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMay 25, 2010

Medicine's secret archives

A study published in Trials highlights the widespread issue of publication bias, where favourable results are selectively published, leading to delays in implementing effective treatments. This can result in patients being prescribed futile or harmful treatments, as was the case with a drug used to prevent irregular heartbeats.

SourceInstitute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care·JournalTrials·DateMay 25, 2010

Swarming locusts need larger brains

Desert locusts that swarm together have larger brains with altered proportions compared to solitary locusts. Their bigger brains are thought to help them cope with the challenges of living in large groups and finding varied food sources.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateMay 25, 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.

Dangerous lung worms found in people who eat raw crayfish

A rare parasitic infection called paragonimiasis has been diagnosed in six people who ate raw crayfish from Missouri streams, according to Washington University School of Medicine. The infection causes fever, cough, chest pain, and fatigue, but is easily treated with an oral drug, praziquantel.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMay 25, 2010

High-strain tendons repair less frequently

Research reveals that high-strain tendons, like the Achilles tendon, repair themselves less frequently due to increased mechanical damage. This study sheds light on the increased susceptibility of certain tendons to injury during aging.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 25, 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.

Mutant gum disease bacteria provide clue to treatment for Alzheimer's

Researchers discover mutant strain of gum disease-causing bacteria that can activate autophagy, a cellular process that breaks down waste products and plaques associated with neurodegenerative diseases. This finding could lead to novel therapeutics for treating Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other diseases.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMay 25, 2010

Change policy that bans blood donations from men who have sex with men

The Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests relaxing the ban on male blood donors who have had sex with men, citing a significant decrease in false negative test results. The proposed change could lead to an expansion of the blood donor pool, resulting in more units of blood available for transfusions.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 25, 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.