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Science News Archive June 2011 - Page 26


Page 26 of 28

UofL researchers uncover mechanism in saliva production

Researchers at University of Louisville identified a protein sorting mechanism used by the salivary gland, which could lead to advanced therapies for patients with damaged or non-functioning salivary glands. The study found that a specific lipid molecule, PtdIns(3,4)P2, plays a crucial role in sorting proteins into vesicles for secretion.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJun 2, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Iron key to brain tumor drug delivery

Scientists at Penn State College of Medicine have created a new approach to treating brain tumors by targeting the ferritin protein with siRNA. By reducing ferritin levels in cancer cells, the sensitivity to chemotherapy can be increased, allowing for lower doses and potentially fewer side effects.

SourcePenn State·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 2, 2011

GEN reports on advances in novel protein kinase inhibitor development

Recent developments in protein kinase inhibitors include innovative drug development paradigms, improved inhibitor profiling, and expanded disease targets such as Alzheimer's disease. Researchers are focusing on inactive kinase states and using selectivity strategies to overcome obstacles in the field.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Engineering & Biotechnology News·DateJun 2, 2011

Adult brain requires MeCP2 for proper functioning

Research by Baylor College of Medicine reveals MeCP2 is required throughout life to maintain healthy brain function. The findings suggest that certain treatments may need to be maintained throughout the lifetime of individuals with Rett Syndrome.

SourceRett Syndrome Research Trust·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

This is what the margins of the Ebro looked like 6 million years ago

A Spanish research team used 3D reflection seismology to create detailed images of the Ebro river basin six million years ago. The study reveals that the sea level dropped dramatically during this period, exposing continental margins to atmospheric agents.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBasin Research·DateJun 2, 2011

UF researchers suggest cholera vaccination strategies for Zimbabwe

The study's findings suggest that mass vaccinations deployed strategically could prevent future cholera epidemics in Zimbabwe and other nations. The research team analyzed how cultural, political, and economic factors influenced routes of transmission and identified funeral feasts as a key factor contributing to the spread of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2011

Scripps Research scientists find way to block stress-related cell death

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute found a way to disrupt a critical enzyme interaction that prevents cell death, potentially leading to new treatments for heart attack and stroke. The discovery could provide a new therapeutic target against conditions including neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJun 2, 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.

For stressed bees, the glass is half empty

Researchers found that stressed bees display pessimistic judgment, expecting bitter tastes in unfamiliar scents, mirroring human-like cognitive bias. This study suggests that bees can be used as models for emotion research in invertebrates, potentially reducing animal welfare concerns.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 2, 2011

Want to solve a problem? Don't just use your brain, but your body, too

A new study by University of Wisconsin professor Martha Alibali and colleagues reveals that body movements significantly impact problem-solving. Participants who were restricted from using their hands or feet used abstract, mathematical strategies more often than those with free movement.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 2, 2011

Silencing a deadly conversation in breast cancer

Researchers identified a key role for hedgehog in breast cancer cellular cross-talk, finding that silencing the molecule slows tumour growth and spread. The discovery applies to all breast cancers, particularly basal breast cancer, which has no current targeted therapy.

SourceResearch Australia·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

Reforms needed for compassionate release of prison inmates

A new study calls for an overhaul of current practices to ensure seriously ill prisoners are identified and released. The researchers propose standardized national guidelines and a recall mechanism to address inequities faced by illiterate, cognitively impaired, or unsupported prisoners.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 2, 2011

Eye on the environment

Researchers are working closely with indigenous communities to develop interventions to address the health impacts of climate change. Pilot projects include medicinal herb gardens, online traditional health knowledge banks, and agricultural training programs.

SourceMcGill University·DateJun 2, 2011

New bitter blocker discovered

Scientists from Monell Center and Integral Molecular have discovered a compound that inhibits bitterness by acting directly on a subset of bitter taste receptors, opening doors to better nutrition and therapeutic compliance. The discovery of probenecid as a bitter blocker may lead to the development of novel and more effective blockers.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

Depression and negative thoughts

A new study suggests people with depression struggle to turn their attention away from bad thoughts due to difficulties with working memory. Researchers found that individuals with depression took longer to reorder words in reverse order, especially when the words had negative meanings.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 2, 2011

Small change makes a big difference for ion channels

University of Illinois researchers used a high-resolution single-molecule study technique to see subtle differences between two branches of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels. They found that changing the position of an amino acid changes its properties, allowing cation-selective channels to regulate excitation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2011

Non-independent mutations present new path to evolutionary success

Researchers found that about three percent of new mutations are 'multi-nucleotide mutations,' which may allow organisms to leap across fitness valleys and reach a higher-fitness state by acquiring multiple mutations simultaneously. The study provides evidence for a possible new mechanism of adaptation.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 2, 2011

Researchers characterize epigenetic fingerprint of 1,628 people

The study identifies thousands of sites of DNA methylation in a large set of physiological and pathological tissues, providing insight into human body processes and disease. The research may lead to finding the unknown origin of metastasis and developing more effective therapies.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalGenome Research·DateJun 2, 2011
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Pulling a fast one

Research by Northwestern University and Wake Forest University found that fast disclaimers undermine consumers' trust in unfamiliar brands, while trusted brands remain unaffected. Trusted brands can use fast disclaimers without impact on purchase intention.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 2, 2011

Developmental disease is recreated in an adult model

Researchers successfully recreated Rett syndrome in adult mice by 'switching off' a critical disease-causing gene, challenging the notion that early expression of the gene protects against the development of symptoms. The study suggests therapies for Rett syndrome may need to be continuously maintained throughout an individual's life.

SourceRettsyndrome.org·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2011

Stevens engineers take 3rd in RIT IEEE Student Design Competition

The Stevens Institute of Technology engineering team created a smart wallet prototype that protects credit card user privacy using software-defined radio technology. The system defaults to defensive mode but allows communication with near-field readers with the push of a button.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

Higher doses of radiation in fewer treatments proved safe, effective for low-risk prostate cancer

A multicenter clinical trial found stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to be an effective treatment option for patients with localized prostate cancer, delivering results in just five 30-minute sessions. The study's findings suggest that higher doses of radiation are safe and can lead to improved outcomes.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 2, 2011

Building a better dam map

A new, global database of large dams and reservoirs has been created to inform sustainable river-flow management. The Global Reservoir and Dam database (GRanD) contains information on 6,862 dams and their associated reservoirs, providing a holistic view of entire river basins.

SourceMcGill University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

Examining the brain as a neural information super-highway

Researchers used internet traffic modeling to study brain networks, revealing that timing patterns of information emission are indicative of info flow. This method can be applied to study neurological development, aging, and disease, indicating a potential new approach in neuroscience.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 2, 2011

Recent financial crisis rooted in politics of creditworthiness, new study contends

A new study by Simone Polillo argues that the recent financial crisis was rooted in the politics of creditworthiness, which excluded marginalized groups from traditional mortgage lending criteria. This led to the rise of wildcat financial innovators who created more inclusive but unstable credit systems.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 2, 2011

C-reactive protein levels predict breast cancer survival rates

Researchers found that increasing CRP levels resulted in increasingly poor prognosis, with a five-year survival rate decreasing from 90% to 74% and deaths from breast cancer increasing from 11% to 20%. Elevated CRP at diagnosis remained predictive of overall survival rates even after excluding patients with suspected bacterial infections.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateJun 2, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Ahead of major UN AIDS meeting, new HIV investment model is proposed

A new HIV investment model is proposed to achieve a more targeted and strategic approach to HIV/AIDS funding. The model would require 30% more funding, estimated at $22 billion annually by 2015, to avoid 12.2 million new infections and 7.4 million deaths between 2011 and 2020.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 2, 2011

Study finds copper proves effective against new E. coli strains

A study by the University of Southampton reveals copper's antimicrobial property, killing 10 million E. coli bacteria within 10 minutes on dry surfaces and 45 minutes on wet ones. Copper deployed as a touch surface in food preparation areas can reduce cross-contamination risk.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateJun 2, 2011

Study reveals how right-to-work laws impact store openings

A new study by Columbia Business School researchers found that Walmart was more likely to propose and open stores in RTW states near the borders of non-RTW states despite protests. The study suggests that firms engage in regulatory arbitrage, selecting businesses-friendly policies to maximize profits.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 2, 2011

Trans-Atlantic team announces Huntington's disease breakthrough

Researchers have discovered a potential therapeutic strategy for Huntington's disease by targeting an enzyme in the brain. The study, published in Current Biology and Cell, found that inhibiting this enzyme can slow down neurodegeneration and improve symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 2, 2011

From pre-gut cells to glory

A research team at Caltech has outlined exactly how specific sets of cells in sea-urchin embryos differentiate to become the endoderm, the early domain of the embryo that eventually forms the gut. They found that certain regulatory genes are expressed in the cells of each domain and that this process is dynamic, with gene expression ch...

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

New type of MRSA in hospitalized patients probably of animal origin

Scientists identify novel MRSA strain with highly divergent genes not detected by traditional methods, suggesting transmission from animals to humans. The study highlights the emergence of new MRSA strains from animal reservoirs in Ireland and Europe.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 2, 2011

Education doesn't increase odds that minorities play 'high-status' sports

A new study by the American Sociological Association finds that racial-ethnic differences in exercise type do not narrow with increasing education, but rather expand. More educated blacks and Mexican Americans are less likely to participate in 'high-status' sports like golf or tennis.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateJun 2, 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.

PrEP can significantly lower risk of getting HIV, but is the public buying?

A recent study found that high out-of-pocket costs were a significant factor in the public's willingness to use PrEP, outweighing its effectiveness in preventing HIV infection. Participants expressed a desire for a 100% effective pill and reported concerns over sexual risk disinhibition and stigma associated with PrEP use.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of STD & AIDS·DateJun 2, 2011

Hartford Program issues geriatric social work awards, forms VA partnership

The Hartford Faculty Scholars Program has granted 11 geriatric social work researchers a two-year award to improve healthy outcomes for the country's aging population. The program partners with the Veterans Health Administration (VA) to support applied research on older veterans and their caregivers.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

Role of gene regulator in skeletal muscles demonstrated

Researchers discovered Sox6 gene regulator that maintains fast muscle type and inhibits slow muscle development. Adult mice lacking Sox6 in fast muscles showed changes in muscle performance, including slower contraction speed and reduced fatigue.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2011

A drug combination extends survival in refractory lung cancer patients

Scientists have identified a drug combination that shows a survival advantage in advanced lung cancer patients who no longer respond to existing therapies. The combination of bexarotene and erlotinib broadens the reach to include patients resistant due to ras mutations, offering new hope for those with limited treatment options.

SourceSamuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJun 2, 2011

Single moms entering midlife may lead to public health crisis

A nationwide study found that unwed mothers face poorer health at midlife than women who have children after marriage. The study suggests that single motherhood has long-term negative health consequences, and government efforts to promote marriage may not address these issues.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 2, 2011
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.

University of Arizona awarded $2.95 million to study monsoon ecology

The University of Arizona has received a $2.95 million grant to study the ecological processes influenced by the monsoon phenomenon. The five-year project will use advanced computer modeling approaches to understand how summer rains affect plant growth and spread invasive grasses, as well as explore connections between lower elevation ...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateJun 2, 2011

Cause and potential treatment found for cancer drug's kidney toxicity

Researchers have discovered that protein kinase C inhibitors can block kidney damage caused by the cancer drug cisplatin. This finding suggests using these inhibitors as an adjunct therapy to reduce toxicity and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 2, 2011

Revamped college science course improves student performance -- in spite of cuts

A revised college science course design improved overall student performance and narrowed the achievement gap for educationally disadvantaged students. The highly structured format, which includes daily practice with problem-solving and data analysis, reduced the gap by 45%, according to research published in Science.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2011