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Science News for September 8, 2010


Use of informatics, EMRs enable genetic study of vascular disease

A team of researchers from Mayo Clinic used electronic medical records (EMRs) to launch a genome-wide association study of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which affects approximately eight million Americans. The study demonstrates the feasibility of leveraging EMRs for genetic research, offering advantages over traditional approaches.

SourceAmerican Medical Informatics Association·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateSep 8, 2010

Scientists make leap forward in early detection for Alzheimer's and cancer

Scientists at NPL have developed a new strategy for quicker and more precise detection of biomarkers, proteins indicating disease. This approach uses a probe to 'fish' for likely proteins in crowded blood samples, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's and cancer.

SourceNational Physical Laboratory·JournalMolecular BioSystems·DateSep 8, 2010

First discovery of bilirubin in a flower announced

Researchers have identified bilirubin as the primary aril pigment in Strelitzia reginae, the Bird of Paradise plant. This discovery expands our understanding of color production in plants and has potential applications for breeding and genetics.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateSep 8, 2010

Researchers identify genes tied to deadliest ovarian cancers

Researchers have identified two genes, ARID1A and PPP2R1A, whose mutations are linked to ovarian clear cell carcinoma, a highly aggressive form of ovarian cancer. The study found that ARID1A mutations were present in over half of the tumors studied, suggesting a significant role in this type of cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 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.

Brown-led research divines structure for class of proteins

Brown University researchers have discovered the structure of three types of proteins that don't have a fixed shape, revealing how they interact with other proteins to regulate important biological processes. The findings provide new insights into the complex mechanisms underlying these proteins' functions.

SourceBrown University·JournalStructure·DateSep 8, 2010

Chopping and changing in the microbial world: How mycoplasmas stay alive

Researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna identified a novel mechanism by which Mycoplasma agalactiae switches its surface protein genes. The so-called phase variation is caused by alterations in short DNA sequences controlled by an enzyme called recombinase. This process enables the organism to avoid host defense mechanisms during infection.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateSep 8, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Saving a million acre-feet of water through conservation and efficiency in California

A new Pacific Institute report identifies key actions for California to conserve a million acre-feet of water through improved efficiency in the urban and agricultural sectors. The analysis finds that upfront investments of less than $1.9 billion can yield significant savings, while also conserving energy and reducing costs.

SourcePacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security·DateSep 8, 2010

Study identifies critical 'traffic engineer' of the nervous system

A University of Georgia study identifies a critical enzyme called MEC-17 that regulates microtubule acetylation in the nervous system. The finding could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which have altered levels of acetylation marks on microtubules.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 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.

NASA satellites reveal surprising connection between beetle attacks, wildfire

Researchers used Landsat data to map areas hardest hit by mountain pine beetles and found that large fires do not appear to occur more often or with greater severity. Beetle-killed forest swaths may actually be less likely to burn due to the breakdown of flammable volatile oils, and standing dead tree trunks can act as natural fire logs.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 8, 2010

New study suggests changes in diagnosis and treatment of malaria

Researchers have identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to the antibiotic clindamycin in malaria parasites. The findings suggest that current diagnostic tests may be inadequate and highlight the need for new treatment strategies. This study contributes to our understanding of the genetic basis of drug resistance in malaria.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalGenome Research·DateSep 8, 2010

Questioning the safety of certain 'healthful' plant-based antioxidants

A study found that quercetin and ferulic acid aggravated kidney cancer in severely diabetic laboratory rats, raising concerns about their safety. The researchers recommend reevaluating the safety of plant-based antioxidants until further evidence is available.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateSep 8, 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.

Drug-resistant malaria suggests a health policy change for pregnant women and infants

A new study found that a Peruvian parasite population had significant genetic instability near the telomere, leading to missed diagnoses from rapid diagnostic tests. The researchers also identified a gene mutation that confers resistance to clindamycin, a commonly administered drug for treating malaria in pregnant women and infants.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateSep 8, 2010

Muscle wasting in cancer does not spare the heart

A new study found that cancer-related cachexia can cause significant damage to the heart in mice with colon cancer. Researchers observed reduced heart function and changes in heart muscle structure, as well as signs of damage in the mitochondria and increased fibrous tissue.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Oncology·DateSep 8, 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.

House-sharing with microbes

Household dust contains up to 1000 microbial species, including both beneficial and harmful bacteria. Studying these microorganisms is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and preventing health issues such as allergies and asthma.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateSep 8, 2010

High testosterone levels linked to self-destructive CEO behavior, says Management Science

A study by Maurice Levi, Kai Li, and Feng Zhang finds that high testosterone levels in CEOs negotiating mergers and acquisitions are associated with a higher rate of dropped deals and increased hostile takeover attempts. Younger CEOs with high testosterone levels tend to reject low offers, even if it's against their interest.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateSep 8, 2010

Cloud computing method greatly increases gene analysis

A new software, Myrna, uses cloud computing to analyze RNA sequencing data at an unprecedented speed and cost-effectiveness. The software calculated differential expression from 1.1 billion reads in under 2 hours for a cost of around $66.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalGenome Biology·DateSep 8, 2010

Stanford land-use expert brings satellite data down to Earth

Eric Lambin's research integrates remote satellite imagery with door-to-door interviews to understand the complex conditions giving rise to land-use challenges. He has uncovered the political, economic, and social forces driving deforestation and reforestation trends worldwide.

SourceStanford University·DateSep 8, 2010

ADA supports national restaurant menu labeling legislation

The American Diabetes Association supports the national restaurant menu labeling legislation to provide healthier options for consumers. Registered dietitians and dietetic technicians will play a crucial role in helping clients make informed choices.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateSep 8, 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.

Study: 3 out of 4 cats will wear a collar, making it worth a try

A study found that almost three-quarters of cats in a six-month study wore collars consistently, with 60% exceeding owners' expectations. The researchers suggest including collar discussion during annual wellness exams and microchipping as a backup identification method.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateSep 8, 2010

Extreme X-ray source supports new class of black hole

A team of astronomers has confirmed the presence of an extreme ultra-luminous X-ray source in a nearby galaxy, which may indicate the presence of an intermediate mass black hole. The object, HLX-1, is located ~300 million light years from Earth and emits radiation 100 times brighter than most other objects in its class.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateSep 8, 2010

Anti-aphrodisiac protects young bedbugs

Researchers have discovered that young bedbug nymphs release aldehyde pheromones to signal to males that they should look elsewhere, providing a new insight into the chemical communication system of bed bugs. This finding may lead to the development of mating disruption techniques to decrease bed bug populations.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateSep 8, 2010

Micro-RNA determines malignancy of lung cancer

A study by Heike Allgayer's team found that micro-RNA miR-200c inhibits the motility and invasive capacity of non-small cell lung cancer cells. Higher miR-200c levels were associated with increased tissue-anchoring molecules and lower metastasis rates.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateSep 8, 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.

Team to study health effects of botanical estrogens

A team of researchers from the University of Illinois will investigate the health effects of botanical estrogens, including phytoestrogens from soy and other plants. The study aims to determine whether these compounds have beneficial or detrimental effects on human health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateSep 8, 2010

MIT researchers find that interneurons are not all created equally

A new study reveals that some classes of interneurons may underlie distinct brain disorders, such as epilepsy and autism. The research suggests that precise dysfunction in specific circuits can lead to these disorders, shedding light on potential future treatments.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateSep 8, 2010

Swine researchers seek answers to fiber's low digestibility

Swine researchers found that fiber in distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is poorly utilized by pigs, with less than 50% digestibility. Soluble fiber, like pectins and oligosaccharides, is easily fermentable, but insoluble fibers are harder to digest.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateSep 8, 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.

Turning a new page on antibiotics

A historic conference at Uppsala University marked a turning point in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Global leaders agreed on joint action and shared data to monitor and limit unnecessary use of antibiotics, as well as improve access to affordable medicines in developing countries.

SourceUppsala University·DateSep 8, 2010

SWOG names 5 cancer researchers outstanding Young Investigators

The Southwest Oncology Group has selected five young investigators to attend a three-day workshop in Seattle, where they will receive intensive training on designing and conducting cancer clinical trials. The YITC program provides mentorship and career support to promising researchers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateSep 8, 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.

Scientists identify molecular gatekeeper of arthritis

Researchers have identified Gαq as a key protein that determines the fate of damaging cells, leading to autoimmune disorders like arthritis. The discovery offers new hope for treatments and personalized therapy for patients.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 8, 2010

Study may help predict extinction tipping point for species

Researchers developed a statistical model to detect early warning signs of extinction in deteriorating environments, which can predict the approach to a tipping point. This study has implications for understanding drastic changes in complex systems, including the human brain and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 2010

Unauthorized population would soar if birthright citizenship repealed

A new report estimates that repealing birthright citizenship would increase the US unauthorized population by at least 5 million over the next decade. The report, conducted by Penn State professor Jennifer Van Hook and the Migration Policy Institute, analyzes the demographic impact of such a repeal on the nation's population.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 8, 2010

Brain cells determine obesity -- not lack of willpower: Study

A high-fat diet causes brain cells to become insulated, rendering them unable to detect signals of fullness. The insulation also creates a further complication in that the body is unable to detect signals to increase energy use and burn off calories.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

Forcing mismatched elements together could yield better solar cells

Researchers have invalidated the most commonly used model to explain the behavior of highly mismatched alloys, which could lead to more efficient solar cells. By using molecular beam epitaxy, they created gallium arsenide nitride alloys with nitrogen that can tap into infrared radiation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateSep 8, 2010

Institute for Aging Research study finds indoor and outdoor fall are different for the elderly

The study found that indoor falls are associated with an inactive lifestyle, disability, and poor health, while outdoor falls are linked to higher activity levels and better-than-average health. Outdoor falls also occur more frequently among younger, healthier individuals.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 8, 2010

New model to measure disease burden of postmenopausal osteoporosis

A validated new model can predict postmenopausal osteoporosis incidence and prevalence in different national settings, providing a powerful tool for health policy decision making. The model was developed using Swedish data and showed a 5% margin of error compared to published data.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateSep 8, 2010

USDA scientists, cooperators create the first genomic map of the domesticated turkey

The USDA has created the first genomic map of the domesticated turkey, which could help breeders develop improved commercial breeds to meet consumer demands. The nearly complete genome map was compiled in under a year and at a fraction of the cost of sequencing chicken and cow genomes.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 8, 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.

Parents report a widely prescribed antibiotic is effective for fragile X treatment

A new survey study found that parents of children with fragile X syndrome reported improvements in language use, attention spans, and behavior after treatment with the antibiotic minocycline. The study suggests that minocycline may be a promising targeted treatment for fragile X, prompting further clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAmerican Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateSep 8, 2010

Does the impact of psychological trauma cross generations?

Researchers have found that traumatic stress can be passed down to future generations through epigenetic changes, affecting gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. This discovery has opened up new avenues for understanding the long-term effects of trauma on mental health.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 8, 2010

Study adds new clue to how last ice age ended

A new study in Nature sheds light on the end of the last ice age by linking Antarctic warming to New Zealand's glacier retreat. Scientists tracked glacier retreat using moraines and estimated local climate warming, providing clues for understanding Earth's final emergence from the ice age.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 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.

Yeast holds clues to Parkinson's disease

Researchers are uncovering the molecular basis of Parkinson's disease by studying alpha-synuclein in yeast cells, which could lead to new therapeutic drugs. Small compounds found effective in preventing Parkinson's disease in worms and blocking toxic effects in rat neurons may form the basis of future treatments.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateSep 8, 2010

Investigating better endpoints for immunotherapy trials

Researchers propose new clinical trial endpoints for immunotherapies, accounting for delayed responses and novel patterns of anti-tumor activity. The immune-related response criteria (irRC) offer a revised approach to measuring treatment success, considering factors such as lymphocyte infiltration and tumor burden.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 8, 2010

Portable laser backpack revolutionizes 3-D mapping

A portable, laser-equipped backpack has been developed to create realistic 3D maps of difficult-to-access spaces. This technology allows Air Force personnel to view and interact with modeled buildings, enhancing mission planning and operations.

SourceAir Force Office of Scientific Research·DateSep 8, 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.

Energy drinks may give young sports teams an edge, study says

A University of Edinburgh study found that 12-14 year olds can play for longer in team games when they drink an isotonic sports drink before and during games. The research showed that drinking a carbohydrate-electrolyte solution improved endurance capacity but did not make young people run faster.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·DateSep 8, 2010

Report issued today examines improving long-term climate forecasts

A new report examines current capabilities for making climate predictions and identifies opportunities for improvement. Improvements in observational capabilities, statistical models, and data assimilation systems are needed to better understand key processes that could help improve forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateSep 8, 2010

Study shows nano-architectured aluminum has steely strength

A study by North Carolina State University researchers has discovered a way to create ultra-strong aluminum alloys using nanostructures. The new materials exhibit exceptional strength while maintaining ductility and can be used on various metals. This breakthrough is crucial for developing lighter yet stronger materials.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 8, 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.

Scots Pine shows its continental roots

Scientists studied Scots Pine genes to discover they still harbor genetic variation from their continental ancestors, which could aid future populations' adaptation and survival under changing climate conditions. The research found Scottish pine tree populations are genetically diverse enough to cope with future change.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalHeredity·DateSep 8, 2010

Linking microbial sex and virulence

Recent studies have uncovered surprising parallels between pheromone signaling in bacteria and fungi, suggesting a close link between microbial sex and virulence. The review highlights the role of telesensing in regulating genetic exchange and potential virulence factors in opportunistic pathogens.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateSep 8, 2010
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Rethinking the concrete jungle

Researchers at the University of Leeds are collaborating with artist Victoria Ferrand Scott to investigate new uses for concrete in art. The project aims to push the boundaries of creative possibilities for this often-maligned material, exploring alternative mixes and high-tech processing methods to create large-scale sculptures.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateSep 8, 2010

Single gene regulates motor neurons in spinal cord

Scientists at NYU Langone Medical Center have discovered a single type of gene that acts as a master organizer of motor neurons in the spinal cord. The finding, published in Neuron, could lead to new treatments for diseases such as Lou Gehrig's disease and spinal cord injury.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateSep 8, 2010

Compounds fend off Alzheimer's disease amyloid pathology

Researchers have synthesized hundreds of new compounds that can specifically reduce A-beta 42 levels in the brain, a primary component of Alzheimer's disease. The compounds, called gamma-secretase modulators, were tested in mouse models and showed promising results, reducing neuritic plaques and A-beta 42 levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateSep 8, 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.

U of I receives $1 million USDA grant to study Glossy15 in sorghum

Researchers at the University of Illinois will study the effects of the Glossy15 gene system on sorghum biomass production. The goal is to develop economically and environmentally sustainable crops with improved biomass yields and conversion to bioenergy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 8, 2010

Why chromosomes never tie their shoelaces

A team of Portuguese researchers has discovered that a specific Histone modification prevents DNA damage recognition machinery from arresting the cell cycle at telomere ends. This finding provides insights into the relationship between telomeres and cancer, as well as potential therapeutic interventions.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 2010

New treatment options target underlying causes of childhood obsessive-compulsive and Tourette's disorders

A special issue of Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology explores new treatments for pediatric-onset OCD and Tourette's disorder, including riluzole, a drug approved for ALS that shows promise in psychiatric conditions. Researchers propose identifying specific brain circuits as targets for new drug development.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateSep 8, 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.

Reading food labels, combined with exercise, can lead to weight loss

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Affairs suggests that observing food labels and exercising regularly can lead to significant weight loss. The research found that women between the ages of 37-50 are more likely to read food labels, which increases their chances of losing weight.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Consumer Affairs·DateSep 8, 2010