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Science News Archive October 2011


Page 4 of 28

Physicists manipulate single molecules to unravel secrets of protein folding

Researchers use single-molecule force spectroscopy to study the dynamics of protein folding, revealing a complex network of intermediate structural and kinetic states. The experiments on calmodulin molecule show distinct subdomains fold independently, interacting with others in a 'energy landscape' with dead ends and express routes.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

What role do cytokines play in autoimmune diseases?

A special issue of Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research explores the complex role of cytokines in autoimmune diseases. Key findings include cytokine pathways that trigger cardiac inflammation and potential chemical markers for predicting autoimmune reactions.

Rice's Barron wins World Technology Award for Materials

Andrew Barron, Rice University's Charles W. Duncan, Jr. -- Welch Chair of Chemistry, is honored with the prestigious World Technology Award for Materials for his groundbreaking nanotechnology research in energy and health. His work has led to projects involving down-hole sensors, carbon dioxide mitigation, and cancer treatment.

Scientists make strides toward drug therapy for inherited kidney disease

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have discovered a potential treatment for autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), an inherited kidney disease affecting millions worldwide. The drug Leflunomide inhibits the STAT6 signaling pathway, which is activated in kidney cysts and leads to excessive cell growth.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Seaweed records show impact of ocean warming

A recent study on Australian herbarium records found that up to 25% of temperate seaweed species may be headed to extinction due to ocean warming. The research reveals significant changes in seaweed communities over the past 50 years, with many species retreating south towards the Australian south coast.

Researchers build largest protein interaction map to date

Researchers have created a detailed map of protein interactions in fruit fly cells, providing insight into how life and disease work. The map reveals the relationships between approximately 5,000 proteins that cooperate to keep life going.

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.

Astronomers pin down galaxy collision rate with Hubble data

A new analysis of Hubble surveys and simulations reveals that galaxies gained mass through collisions with other galaxies. Large galaxies merged on average once over the past 9 billion years, while small galaxies coalesced with large ones more frequently.

Saul Perlmutter receives Nobel Prize in physics

Saul Perlmutter, along with Brian Schmidt and Adam Riess, discovered the accelerating expansion of the universe through distant supernovae observations. This discovery implies the existence of dark energy, a mysterious force opposing gravity and increasing galaxy distances.

Building better HIV antibodies

A team of Caltech biologists has developed a new, more potent HIV antibody that targets the virus's entry site. The antibody shows increased effectiveness against multiple subtypes of HIV, paving the way for potential clinical testing and improved vaccine development.

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.

NRL refurbishes VAULT2.0 for reflight

Scientists at NRL refurbish VAULT2.0 to double its cadence and reduce noise, enabling higher-resolution Lyα imaging of the solar chromosphere-corona interface. This will help uncover clues on coronal heating and provide valuable insights for future space missions.

Older men with higher testosterone levels lose less muscle mass as they age

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that higher levels of testosterone were associated with reduced loss of lean muscle mass in older men. Higher testosterone levels were also linked to less loss of lower body strength, particularly in those who were losing weight.

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.

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.

Single photons for optical information transfer

Using metamaterials to collect and transmit single photons, researchers aim to encode complex information on individual particles of light. This technology could significantly improve data security for the military and other high-stakes applications.

Vitamin B derivative helps diabetics with mild kidney disease

A study found that Pyridorin, a vitamin B6 derivative, helps patients with mild diabetic kidney disease, but does not benefit those with more advanced kidney disease. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is expected to double by 2030, making new therapies like Pyridorin crucial in preventing kidney failure and saving lives.

Healthy mouth bacteria provide ideal conditions for gum disease

Healthy mouth bacteria provide ideal conditions for gum disease to develop, according to research from Queen Mary University of London. The study found that manipulating normal bacteria in the mouth can prevent periodontal disease, a condition affecting 54% of adults in the UK.

Governments must plan for migration in response to climate change, researchers say

Researchers warn that forced migration due to climate change will have calamitous results if not planned carefully. The team emphasizes the need for informed decision makers and careful planning to avoid community devastation. Resettlement efforts have left millions impoverished in the past, highlighting the complexities of the task.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A step in unraveling Alzheimer's described in Science article

Researchers use yeast, worms, and rats to study the effects of amyloid beta peptide misfolding on cellular pathways. The study reveals a crucial link between protein misfolding and Alzheimer's disease, highlighting potential new avenues for understanding and combating the disorder.

7 billion people are not the issue - human development is what counts

The Laxenburg Declaration emphasizes the importance of human capital, education, and health in addressing sustainable development challenges. The declaration highlights the need to target vulnerable subpopulations with tailored policies to ensure environmental safety and adaptability.

Hard times during adolescence point to health problems later in life

A study published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that experiencing social stressors during adolescence and young adulthood can lead to increased disease risk factors in middle age. The researchers analyzed data from 822 participants and discovered a significant link between early adversity and allostatic load, a measure of phys...

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.

Curiosity doesn't kill the student

A new study published in Perspectives in Psychological Science reveals that curiosity plays a significant role in academic success, with personality traits like curiosity being as important as intelligence. Conscientiousness is also found to be a key factor, suggesting that teaching methods can inspire curiosity and motivation.

Research: Graphene grows better on certain copper crystals

The study reveals that certain copper crystal structures promote better graphene growth due to their atomic shape and arrangement. This finding could lead to more cost-effective and high-quality graphene production for consumer electronics applications.

A*STAR scientists first to identify stem cell key to lung regeneration

Researchers at A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore and Institute of Molecular Biology identify distal airway stem cells as the key to forming new alveoli, paving the way for novel therapies for respiratory diseases. The discovery provides insight into genes and secreted factors that can be used to enhance lung regeneration.

Nearly half of Ontario seniors do not see dentists regularly

A new study by St. Michael's Hospital and ICES found that nearly half of Ontario seniors do not see dentists regularly, increasing their risk of chronic diseases and a reduced quality of life. The researchers highlight the importance of prevention and health promotion to help older women remain active and independent as they age.

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.

BMC selected spinal cord injury model system site by NIDRR

The New England Regional Spinal Cord Injury Center at Boston Medical Center has been awarded a five-year grant to continue as the leading center in New England for spinal cord injury care, education, and research. This designation underscores the center's commitment to staying on the cutting edge of spinal cord research and treatment.

From genomic data to new cancer drug

Researchers have identified a new potential cancer drug targeting EPHA7, a tumor suppressor protein associated with follicular lymphoma. The discovery demonstrates the power of functional genomics in translating genetic insights into therapies.

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.

Free health care: Yes, but with caution

Researchers analyzed policies in low-income countries that removed user fees from healthcare, finding that well-designed and implemented free healthcare can improve access to services. However, insufficient funding and hasty decisions without stakeholder consultation can lead to system shocks and challenges.

Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer's cooling strategy revealed

Researchers discovered reindeer use three tactics: panting with nose closed, mouth open and brain cooling system, to prevent overheating while exercising. The team found that reindeer selectively cool their brains only when temperature becomes dangerously high.

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.

High tech detection of breast cancer using nanoprobes and SQUID

New research uses tumor-targeted magnetic nanoprobes and SQUID sensors to detect breast cancer, outperforming mammography in sensitivity and accuracy. This technology holds promise for refining treatment plans and improving patient survival by classifying tumors based on protein expression.

Progeria: Promising results from new gene therapy on animals

Researchers have developed a new animal model to study Progeria and tested a gene therapy that significantly extended the lifespan of mice. The treatment, using 'vivo-morpholino' antisense oligonucleotide technology, reduced progerin production and improved various parameters related to the disease.

Good parenting is just a joke

A new study finds that parents' use of language, tone, and non-verbal cues helps toddlers differentiate between joking and pretending. This interaction aids in the development of essential life skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and social skills.

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.

Does reading achievement spur independent reading, or vice versa?

A new study finds that children's reading achievement at age 10 predicts their independent reading at 11, suggesting a causal relationship between the two. However, independent reading does not directly improve reading achievement, especially among children at the end of elementary school.

Good relationship with teacher can protect first graders from aggression

A new study of Canadian first graders suggests that a good teacher-student relationship can shield children from expressing aggression and being targeted by their peers. The research found that genetically vulnerable children were protected from aggressive behavior if they had a warm, affectionate relationship with their teacher.

Shaken, not stirred: Berkeley lab scientists spy molecular maneuvers

Researchers at Berkeley Lab create a new device called the SheetRocker to study how shaking affects sheet formation in peptoid monolayers. They find that compression on the air-water interface produces free-floating, stable nanosheets in 95% yield, enabling scalable sensing and filtration applications.

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.

Our brains are made of the same stuff, despite DNA differences

Researchers created databases showing how genes turn on and off in multiple brain regions through development, revealing a 'consistent molecular architecture' across individuals. Key findings include individual genetic variations linked to expression patterns, with most genes reversing their direction of expression after birth.

High-quality white light produced by four-color laser source

A recent study conducted by Sandia National Laboratories found that diode lasers can produce high-quality white light comparable to LEDs, which may lead to new lighting technologies. The research used a test involving volunteers and different lighting sources, including LED bulbs, incandescent lights, and diode laser combinations.

Advance toward a breath test to diagnose multiple sclerosis

Scientists have developed a sensor array that can diagnose multiple sclerosis from exhaled breath, offering a fast, inexpensive and non-invasive alternative to traditional methods. The technology has been tested in humans and shows promising results, rivaling the accuracy of spinal taps without pain or risk.

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.

New 'scarless' surgery takes out tumors through natural skull opening

A new technique developed by Johns Hopkins surgeons allows for the removal of skull base tumors without traditional incisions, resulting in faster recovery times and reduced complications. The procedure uses a natural opening above the jawbone and beneath the cheekbone to access the tumor site.