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Science News for September 28, 2010


NASA's Webb Telescope unique structural 'heart' passes extreme tests

The ISIM structure passed extreme cryogenic temperature tests without cracking, with thermal contraction and distortion measured to be within the design requirement. The unique composite laminate and bonding technique used in its construction were successfully tested, ensuring the telescope's instruments remain in precise locations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 28, 2010

Researchers confirm prenatal heart defects in spinal muscular atrophy cases

A new study has found prenatal cardiac defects in mice with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a leading genetic cause of infantile death. The discovery has significant implications for treatment, suggesting that the disease may be multisystemic and requiring therapies beyond just motor neurons.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateSep 28, 2010

Heartbreak puts the brakes on your heart

A new study finds that social rejection triggers a momentary decrease in heart rate, mirroring the brain's response to physical pain. Participants' heart rates slowed in anticipation of and after receiving news about another person's opinion of them, with further drops observed when told they were rejected.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 28, 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.

Targeting amyloid to stop HIV

Scientists have created a substance that targets amyloid structures in semen and weakens HIV's ability to infect the body's immune cells. The experimental compound makes it harder for HIV particles to stick to human immune cells, offering a new lead in developing a microbicide to prevent HIV transmission.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 28, 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.

Intrauterine devices can be used to treat endometrial cancer

Research published in Annals of Oncology suggests that intrauterine devices releasing progestin hormone levonorgestrel combined with GnRH injections can halt and reverse cancer growth in women aged 40 or younger. The treatment has shown promise in treating specific types of endometrial cancer, preserving fertility for young women.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 28, 2010

Researcher gives 'F' to multiculturalism education

Researcher Adeela Arshad-Ayaz argues that multicultural education has failed to promote cross-cultural understanding due to inadequate teacher training. She proposes an alternative approach integrating discussion of global politics and social class to create a more equitable society.

SourceConcordia University·DateSep 28, 2010

New study reveals that insecticides from genetically modified corn are present in adjacent streams

A new study by University of Notre Dame ecologist Jennifer Tank and colleagues found that streams throughout the Midwest receive transgenic materials from corn crop byproducts six months after harvest. The research detected Cry1Ab insecticidal protein in 13% of stream sites and dissolved in 23% of water samples.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2010

Genome inversion gives plant a new lifestyle

A genetic inversion in the monkeyflower plant's genome contributes to its adaptation to different environments, leading to reproductive isolation and a shift towards becoming two separate species.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 28, 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.

Predicting divorce: U-M study shows how fight styles affect marriage

A University of Michigan study shows that constructive conflict resolution strategies can lower divorce rates, while destructive behaviors and withdrawal are associated with higher separation rates. Researchers found racial differences in conflict behavior patterns, with Black couples more likely to withdraw during conflicts.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateSep 28, 2010

Finding a buckyball in photovoltaic cell

Researchers have developed a new method to analyze neutron reflection to identify buckyballs within polymer-based photovoltaic cells. This breakthrough technique allows for more efficient and cost-effective production of solar cells, which could lead to widespread adoption.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 28, 2010

Sodium plays key role in tissue regeneration

Biologists at Tufts University have discovered that sodium plays a key role in initiating a regenerative response after severe injury, enabling the regeneration of injured spinal cord and muscle. A specific drug-based treatment triggers an influx of sodium ions into injured cells, breaking new ground in biomedicine.

SourceTufts University·DateSep 28, 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.

HJF names fellowship award winners

Three USU doctoral students receive fellowships to study schistosomiasis, multiple sclerosis and tuberous sclerosis complex. The HJF program aims to develop new drug targets and treatments for these diseases.

SourceHenry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine·DateSep 28, 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.

The dual nature of dew

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found dew essential for plant growth in semi-arid zones like the Eastern Mediterranean. Dew provides moisture to plant leaves, enabling photosynthesis and growth during early morning hours.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCanadian Water Resources Journal / Revue canadienne des ressources hydriques·DateSep 28, 2010

What next for the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic?

Experts speculate on future of H1N1 pandemic virus, predicting low mortality rates due to existing immunity in the population. The degree of immunity and potential changes to the virus will impact the upcoming influenza season.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateSep 28, 2010

How reasonable it is to deceive yourself?

Researchers Prof. Dr. Albert Newen and Christoph Michel propose that self-deception can be a motivating factor in certain situations, while maintaining basic rational evaluation processes intact. However, excessive self-deception can lead to reality distortion and harm.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalConsciousness and Cognition·DateSep 28, 2010

NIH scientists find more health benefits from starting HIV treatment early

A new study found that HIV-infected individuals who start antiretroviral therapy (ART) soon after acquiring the virus have stronger immune responses to other pathogens compared to those who start ART later. Early treatment restores resting memory B cells and reduces immature B cells, leading to improved immune system function.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalBlood·DateSep 28, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Certain psychiatric disorders linked with risky sexual behavior in teens

Teens with certain psychiatric diagnoses, such as bipolar disorder and externalizing disorders, are more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behaviors. The study found that those with mania are at an even higher risk for HIV and STIs, having significantly more sexual partners and being four times as likely to have an STI.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateSep 28, 2010

New device for identifying aggressive breast cancers

A new disposable device based on microfluidics can efficiently capture cancer cells overexpressing HER2, enabling therapy with trastuzumab. The device offers a non-invasive alternative to current methodologies and has shown promising results in early studies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateSep 28, 2010

Sparkling drinks spark pain circuits

New research from the University of Southern California found that sparkling drinks activate pain sensors in the nasal cavity, similar to mustard and horseradish. The study discovered a specific type of cell responsible for this sensation, known as TRPA1.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateSep 28, 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 VARI findings next step to growing drought-resistant plants

Researchers at Van Andel Research Institute have identified synthetic compounds that can mimic the effects of plant hormone abscisic acid, helping plants retain water during drought. These findings could lead to sprays that use a plant's natural defenses to improve drought tolerance and combat global food shortages.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 28, 2010

Envious employees can turn hospitality industry hostile

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that front-line hotel employees who are envious of their co-workers' relationships with supervisors are less likely to help or volunteer for additional duties. Envy can create a hostile work environment and negatively impact customer satisfaction, the study suggests.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateSep 28, 2010

2010 AAO-HNSF miniseminars: Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2010

The AAO-HNSF miniseminars discussed presbycusis, a growing concern for older adults with hearing loss. The researchers also presented new medullary thyroid cancer guidelines, highlighting the need for familiarity with unique diagnostic and treatment paradigms. Additionally, safety concerns in pediatric ambulatory surgery were emphasized.

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateSep 28, 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.

UH Manoa professor finds Muslim women who wear headscarves face workplace discrimination in the US

A recent study by Professor Sonia Ghumman at the University of Hawaii at Manoa found that Muslim women who wear hijabs face significant workplace discrimination in the US. The survey revealed that 22% of respondents were personally denied work due to their attire, highlighting a pervasive issue of religious intolerance.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·DateSep 28, 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.

NIH scientists consider fate of pandemic H1N1 flu virus

Scientists estimate that at least 183 million Americans have immunity to the 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus due to exposure or vaccination. They predict the virus will persist in a form causing relatively few deaths, but caution against complacency and urge influenza vaccination for all ages.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalmBio·DateSep 28, 2010

Vaccine suspended 5 years ago has actually given children long term

A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases suggests that infant immunity to hepatitis B lasts for at least 5 years after primary vaccination, making booster shots unnecessary. The research, led by Alessandro Zanetti, found that children vaccinated with hexavac maintained protective antibody levels for over 5 years.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateSep 28, 2010

Pharmaceutical substances found in waters of Donana

Researchers detect five types of pharmaceuticals in Donana's waters, including anti-inflammatory drugs and hormones. The study suggests advanced technologies can remove these compounds from urban waste water.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateSep 28, 2010

Study finds language barriers may play role in health care disparities

Researchers found that individuals who don't speak English at home are less likely to receive colorectal cancer screenings compared to those who do. The study suggests that patient-provider language barriers and unmeasured differences in patient characteristics contribute to disparities in health care access.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 28, 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.

Market changes affect risk tolerance, MU study finds

Researchers at the University of Missouri found a positive correlation between investor risk tolerance and stock market returns, indicating investors buy stocks at high prices and sell at low prices. Improved financial education is recommended to help Americans overcome biases in investment decisions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Economic Issues·DateSep 28, 2010

Leading practitioners recommend global PTSD treatment guidelines

The study compares and contrasts various global PTSD treatment guidelines, highlighting differences that can lead to confusion. The researchers emphasize the importance of trauma-focused psychological interventions as the most effective treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateSep 28, 2010

How to still kill a resistant parasite

Researchers from the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp successfully restored a sleeping sickness parasite's susceptibility to drugs, potentially alleviating economic losses. The discovery involves combining antibiotics with an existing medicine, ISM, which could lead to more effective treatments for both cattle and humans.

SourceInstitute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 28, 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.

'Firefly' stem cells may help repair damaged hearts

Engineered 'firefly' stem cells can help repair damaged hearts without cutting into patients' chests. Researchers can now track the cells' progress using a special camera lens that picks up the glow under a microscope.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateSep 28, 2010

Wasps wage war on behalf of wiliwili trees

A new species of parasitic wasp, Eurytoma erythrinae, has been released in Hawaii to combat the invasive Erythrina gall wasp, which harms endemic wiliwili trees. The parasite's high success rate has led to significant declines in tree damage.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateSep 28, 2010

Pharma must be held more accountable to its human rights responsibilities

The PLoS Medicine Editorial argues that drug companies' human rights responsibilities have not been adequately addressed, despite the need to make medicines available to those in need. The editorial highlights the importance of accountability and calls for an external body to monitor pharmaceutical companies' policies and practices.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 28, 2010

Why we fight: Men check out in stressful situations

A new study by USC researchers found that stressed men have diminished brain activity in regions responsible for understanding others' feelings, whereas stressed women show increased coordination. This sex difference is linked to the effects of stress on social behavior and empathy.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNeuroreport·DateSep 28, 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.

Protein key to growth of pancreatic cancer

A study found that nearly three-quarters of pancreatic cancer tumours have high levels of a protein called P110γ, which could provide a new target for treatments. Blocking this protein stopped cancer cell growth in laboratory experiments.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 28, 2010

Noise and chemicals: Workers are losing their hearing

A Spanish study reveals that combining noise and chemical contaminants can exacerbate hearing loss in workers. While protective masks can filter particles, they have limited effect on toxic gas molecules.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnales del Sistema Sanitario de Navarra·DateSep 28, 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.

Human clinical trial of DNA-MVA HIV vaccine candidate begins

A Phase I study has begun to evaluate a combination DNA prime/MVA vector boost vaccine regimen to protect against diverse subtypes of HIV-1. The study will enroll 92 participants and test two intramuscular delivery methods for the DNA prime, Biojector 2000 and CELLECTRA EP, to compare their effects on immune response.

SourceHenry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine·DateSep 28, 2010

African-American seniors at twice the risk for mental abuse, 5 times for financial exploitation

A population-based survey by Pitt's UCSUR found that African American seniors are twice as likely to be mentally abused and five times more susceptible to financial exploitation than elders of other races. The study collected data from face-to-face and telephone interviews with senior citizens in Pennsylvania's Allegheny County.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateSep 28, 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.

Individual mutations are very slow to promote tumor growth

Individual cancer-causing mutations have a minor effect on tumor growth, increasing cell division rates and contributing to the accumulation of multiple mutations. The research suggests that significant tumor growth requires the slow accumulation of multiple mutations over years, explaining why many cancer-driving mutations are needed.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2010

WMS endorses emergency treatment of anaphylaxis by trained nonmedical professionals

The Wilderness Medical Society (WMS) supports the administration of epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis by trained non-medical professionals in emergency situations. This practice is recommended for organizations with staff who provide first aid, particularly those working with students at risk for anaphylaxis.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·DateSep 28, 2010

Mining the 'wisdom of crowds' to attack disease

A crowdsourcing experiment, called the Challenge, has selected 12 pioneering ideas for attacking Type 1 Diabetes. These ideas were proposed by a diverse group of people, including patients, students, and researchers from various backgrounds.

SourceHarvard Medical School·DateSep 28, 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.

'Louder at the back, please'

A new study found that playing white noise in class can improve the memory of schoolchildren with difficulties in paying attention. The researchers discovered a significant improvement in performance for inattentive children and a decline in performance for attentive ones as noise levels increased.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBehavioral and Brain Functions·DateSep 28, 2010

Digging deep for ways to curb ammonia emissions

Researchers from USDA's Agricultural Research Service found that subsurface injection of liquid manure can reduce ammonia emissions from dairy farms by 65% compared to surface broadcasting or shallow incorporation. This method limits manure nitrogen losses from volatilization, improving air quality and soil health.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalThe Professional Animal Scientist·DateSep 28, 2010

Ultrafine air particles may increase firefighters' risk for heart disease

Researchers found that over 70% of particulates released during fires are ultrafine and can be inhaled into the lungs. Firefighters are at a higher risk of heart disease due to exposure to these harmful particles, particularly those with low physical fitness or health.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateSep 28, 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.

2010 AAO-HNSF new research highlights: Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2010

Researchers presented studies on safe outpatient total thyroidectomy using a serum parathyroid hormone-based discharge algorithm, as well as the potential benefits of statins in treating chronic rhinosinusitis. Additionally, a study examined the impact of mobile phone use on auditory health and found increased risk of cochlea damage. O...

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateSep 28, 2010

Researchers use CT to predict heart disease

A new study published in Radiology suggests that radiologists can predict cardiovascular disease using incidental findings from routine CT scans. The study found that aortic calcifications were highly predictive of future cardiovascular events, and developed prediction models to identify patients at high risk.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 28, 2010

Method to detect bladder cancer earlier is under development

Researchers identified 79 microRNAs linked to bladder cancer, showing promise for early detection through existing laboratory tests. The new method measures microRNA presence or absence in bodily fluids with high accuracy, comparable to current gold standard testing.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateSep 28, 2010

Microbiomes may hold key to better understanding of preterm birth

A team of scientists from Mayo Clinic, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and J. Craig Venter Institute are investigating the relationship between vaginal microbiota and preterm birth. They aim to identify microbial risk predictors for preterm birth using genomic information from the Human Microbiome Project.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateSep 28, 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.

Rebels without applause: New study on peer victimization

A Concordia University study found that loners and antisocial kids who reject others are often bullied at school as a way to control renegades. The research team identified dominant children who use relational aggression to maintain their social status.

SourceConcordia University·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateSep 28, 2010

Triple-negative breast cancers may have unique therapeutic target

Researchers identified insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) overexpression in 25% of triple-negative breast cancers, correlated with gene amplification. IGF-1R blockade has been successful in sarcomas, and targeting this receptor may offer new therapeutic options for triple-negative breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateSep 28, 2010

Tiny generators turn waste heat into power

Researchers have developed tiny devices that convert waste heat into electricity using pyroelectric nanowires. The devices can generate an electrical current in response to temperature changes, offering a potential solution for powering small devices and biological applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 28, 2010

Sneaking spies into a cell's nucleus

Researchers have successfully slipped silver nanoparticles cloaked in HIV protein into the nucleus of cells, where they can detect subtle light signals and deliver payloads. This innovation has potential implications for disease treatment and basic scientific research.

SourceDuke University·JournalNanomedicine·DateSep 28, 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.

Striding towards a new dawn for electronics

A team of McGill University researchers has developed a method to study energy transport along individual conductive polymer molecules, enabling the development of new technologies. By visualizing energy transport in various conformations, they aim to improve sensors and hybrid organic-inorganic light harvesting materials for solar cells.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2010

The price of popularity: Drug and alcohol consumption

A University of Montreal study found that teenagers who are well-accepted and sensitive to social codes are more likely to consume drugs and alcohol. The study, which tracked over 500 students from ages 10 to 15, showed a two-fold increase in consumption among the most popular kids with very popular friends.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateSep 28, 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.

Biomarker panel identifies prostate cancer with 90 percent accuracy

Researchers have developed a biomarker panel that distinguishes prostate cancer from benign prostate disease and healthy tissue with high accuracy. The panel uses autoantibodies to identify proteins on the surface of cancer cells, enabling early diagnosis and potentially increasing cure rates.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateSep 28, 2010