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Science News for June 19, 2011


Mimicking nature at the nanoscale: Selective transport across a biomimetic nanopore

A team of researchers has developed a biomimetic nanopore that selectively transports individual proteins across its surface, mirroring the behavior of natural nuclear pores. The study uses functionalized key proteins to create a synthetic pore that can be used as a testing platform for drug delivery into a cell's nucleus.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 19, 2011
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.

Atmospheric carbon dioxide buildup unlikely to spark abrupt climate change

A team of scientists used numerical climate models and oxygen-isotope analysis to determine what caused climate shifts during the last ice age. The study found that Heinrich events were associated with changes in monsoon rainfall intensity, rather than carbon dioxide-induced climate change.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 19, 2011

50-year search for calcium channel ends

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified the linchpin protein MICU1, which drives mitochondria's calcium uptake. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders and diabetes.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJun 19, 2011
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.

Study of biomarker development in mice provides a roadmap for a similar approach in humans

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center demonstrate a staged, targeted pipeline approach using mass spectrometry to prioritize and validate protein biomarkers in mice. This method enables the testing of a larger number of biomarker candidates than conventional technologies, improving the efficiency of biomarker evaluation. The stu...

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 19, 2011

Heart disease beats breast cancer as the biggest killer

Research published in BioMed Central's Breast Cancer Research journal found that two-thirds of women with breast cancer died from other causes, with cardiovascular disease being the leading cause of death. Women over 50 with co-existing health conditions were most likely to die from non-cancer related causes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateJun 19, 2011

Climate change disasters could be predicted

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a system to anticipate high-risk climate tipping points, providing early warning systems for devastating consequences. By analyzing observational data, scientists can identify signs of instability in climate systems, allowing for forewarning and adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 19, 2011

Arctic snow harbors deadly assassin

A new study reveals that prolonged heavy snowfall in the Arctic can trigger rapid growth of killer fungi, devastating plant life and disrupting local food chains. This unexpected finding highlights unforeseen climate change effects on vegetation and ecosystems.

SourceDurham University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 19, 2011

New genes for risk and progression of rare brain disease identified

Researchers have identified three new genes associated with the risk of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurodegenerative disease. The study found that genetic variations in EIF2AK3, STX6, and MOBP contribute to PSP risk, while also shedding light on the underlying cause of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 19, 2011
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.

New insights on an old material will enable design of better polymer batteries, water purification

Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered how to manipulate Nafion's internal structure to enhance its applications in energy-related industrial fields. By analyzing the material's molecular motion and alignment, they found that stretching the material influences its conduction properties, enabling new designs for batteries and wate...

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 19, 2011