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Science News for September 7, 2011


'TF beacons' may light path to new cancer tests and drugs

Scientists have developed 'transcription factor beacons' to quickly detect the activity of proteins controlling gene expression in cancer. The breakthrough technology may enable faster cancer diagnosis and the discovery of new cancer drugs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 7, 2011

Study links drinking pattern to alcohol’s effect on heart health

A new study found that daily moderate drinking decreases atherosclerosis in mice, while binge drinking increases its development. Moderate drinking also lowered LDL cholesterol and reduced plaque volume, whereas binge drinking led to increased inflammation and weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateSep 7, 2011

Researchers publish study on neuronal RNA targeting

A study by SUNY Downstate scientist Ilham Muslimov suggests that molecular competition in neuronal RNA transport may contribute to neurodegenerative disorders. The researchers identified RNA motifs that act as spatial codes in nerve cells, directing RNAs to dendrites and synapses.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 7, 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.

Simulation proven to enhance training of health professionals

A comprehensive analysis of 600 studies found that simulation-based training consistently outperforms traditional instruction. The study's findings suggest that simulation can be an effective tool for teaching physicians and other healthcare professionals, offering benefits such as repeated practice without patient harm.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJAMA·DateSep 7, 2011

King crabs threaten seafloor life near Antarctica

A recent study discovered a large, reproductive population of king crabs in the Palmer Deep along the west Antarctic Peninsula. The species is now established on the continental shelf in West Antarctica and has the potential to drastically reduce seafloor biodiversity. This finding highlights the invasive nature of the king crab popula...

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·DateSep 7, 2011

Where does all the gold come from?

Researchers at the University of Bristol analyzed ancient rock samples to determine the origin of Earth's precious metals. They found that the planet's accessible reserves of gold and other precious elements are the result of a catastrophic meteorite shower that hit the Earth after its core formation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

Branding like Beckham

A study on the Beckham family's branding strategy reveals that creating a dynamic personal story with distinct persona cues is crucial for achieving brand distinctiveness. By leveraging opportunities for publicity and social media visibility, families can build a strong brand presence that endures beyond their original field of practice.

SourceSAGE·JournalFamily Business Review·DateSep 7, 2011

Legislation creates conflict on the Horn of Africa

A new grant-funded project from the University of Copenhagen aims to investigate how Kenya's handling of natural resources contributes to instability in the country. The researchers will focus on the Mau Forest, a region affected by violent conflicts over resource access.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·DateSep 7, 2011

Parents’ behavior linked to kids’ videogame playing

A Michigan State University study linked parental behavior to kids' videogame playing, revealing that perceived negative parent interactions and lack of monitoring drive children to engage in gaming. Researchers aim to explore the relationship between videogame playing and actual parental behavior.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 7, 2011

New 'bouncer' molecule halts rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new protein called P21, which acts as a protective barrier against hyperactive immune cells in people with rheumatoid arthritis. By inhibiting the immune cells' destructive rampage, the bouncer molecule halts the disease process, offering a promising new avenue for future therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 7, 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.

Sorting out major brain stent study: Cedars-sinai experts say procedure effective for some patients

A recent brain stent study found aggressive medical treatment without stenting may be better for high-risk stroke patients, but experts at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center believe the procedure is appropriate for certain patients who haven't responded to medication. The study's limitations and exclusions have raised concerns among researchers.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2011

South-East universities turn their knowledge into wealth

A study reveals that universities in the south-east of England outperform those in less competitive regions in commercializing their research. Key findings show that these universities have a high concentration of innovative firms and Research and Development institutions, facilitating collaboration and knowledge transfer.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateSep 7, 2011

Deep-sea fish in deep trouble

A team of experts recommends ending most commercial fishing in the deep sea due to their unsustainability. The study suggests redirecting subsidies to rebuild fish populations in closer-to-coastal waters.

SourceMarine Conservation Biology Institute·JournalMarine Policy·DateSep 7, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Death tolls spur pro-war stance, study finds

A study at Washington University in St. Louis found that highlighting war casualties can sway people's pro-war attitudes rather than discouraging them. The 'sunk-cost effect' makes individuals more likely to stay committed to a cause due to the emotional investment, even if it no longer serves their best interest.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateSep 7, 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.

Minority ethnic patients not satisfied with NHS primary care

Research reveals significant differences in patient experience of primary care among different age groups, health statuses, and ethnicities. Minority ethnic patients report lower satisfaction rates due to poorer practice performance, but internal factors also contribute to the disparities.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

A chaperone for the 'guardian of the genome'

Researchers have discovered how p53 binds to Hsp90, revealing new insights into cancer development and potential therapeutic targets. The study found that p53 binds to both the middle and C-terminal domains of Hsp90, with negatively charged amino acids playing a crucial role in stabilizing the bond.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 7, 2011

TGen receives $50,000 to find genetic origins of rare breast cancer

The Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) has been awarded $50,000 by the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation to discover the genetic origins of Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC), a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that rapidly progresses without warning.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateSep 7, 2011

NIH stroke prevention trial has immediate implications for clinical practice

In a large nationwide clinical trial, intensive medical treatment reduced strokes and deaths by 70% compared to brain stent placement in high-risk patients. The study found no benefit from stenting, suggesting it may dislodge unstable plaque in arteries.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 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.

Scientists offer way to address 'age-old' questions

Scientists have devised a way to measure the impact of age on bacterial growth rates, allowing for new understanding and modeling of bacterial populations. This development could provide new insights into how genetic factors affect their life cycle and potentially lead to alternative methods to curb bacterial growth.

SourceNew York University·JournalEvolution·DateSep 7, 2011

CU-Boulder space instrument observes new characteristics of solar flares

New data from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory shows that radiation from some solar flares can continue for up to five hours beyond the initial minutes. The total energy from this extended phase sometimes has more energy than the initial event, increasing our understanding of flare physics and its impact on Earth's atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateSep 7, 2011

Liquor store density linked to youth homicides

Researchers found a correlation between alcohol outlet density and violent crime rates among teens and young adults in the US. Banning or reducing sales of single-serve containers also showed a modest impact on violence, particularly when combined with higher liquor store densities.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·DateSep 7, 2011

Scripps research scientists find clue to cause of childhood hydrocephalus

Researchers found that high levels of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) can lead to congenital hydrocephalus in mice by disrupting brain development and causing excess cerebrospinal fluid buildup. Blocking LPA's action prevents the effect, offering a potential new treatment for the condition.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 7, 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.

Lee's remnants continue to drench the Eastern US

Lee's surface circulation absorbed by a large extratropical low pressure area near the Tennessee/Virginia border. Heavy rainfall expected from central Appalachians into New England, with totals up to 10 inches until week's end.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 7, 2011

New record for measurement of atomic lifetime

Researchers have measured the lifetime of an extremely stable energy level of magnesium atoms with great precision, achieving a record-breaking 2050 seconds. This is the longest lifetime ever measured in a laboratory and has significant implications for the development of ultra-precise atomic clocks.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 7, 2011

When that shoulder aches too much to move

Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, is a condition causing chronic inflammation and scarring around the shoulder joint. Gentle stretching exercises and physical therapy can help restore movement and reduce discomfort. Surgery may be necessary for those not showing progress with non-surgical treatments.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateSep 7, 2011

China's plant resources need additional protections

China's existing protected areas are failing to conserve wild plants, which could be valuable sources of future crops and medicine. The country should develop accurate data on threats to its plant species and create well-enforced reserves in appropriate areas.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateSep 7, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New type of solar cell retains high efficiency for long periods

Scientists have developed a new type of solar cell that converts sunlight into electricity with an efficiency of 10%, outperforming conventional solar cells made from silicon. The device retained at least 95% of its sun-converting ability for 1,000 hours of testing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 7, 2011

Innovative superconductor fibers carry 40 times more electricity

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed innovative superconductors using sapphire fibers, capable of carrying 40 times more electricity than copper wires. This breakthrough has the potential to transform energy transfer, grid stability, and renewable energy collection.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateSep 7, 2011

Scientists create mammalian cells with single chromosome set

Researchers have created stem cells with a single set of chromosomes, simplifying the study of gene function and its impact on development. This technique enables scientists to identify mutations in genes that affect cell behavior and potentially develop new treatments for diseases.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2011

Expert calls for change in trans fat labelling

A University of Alberta nutrition expert recommends re-evaluating trans fat labelling due to evidence suggesting natural trans fats have positive health effects. Natural trans fats found in dairy and beef products are not detrimental to health and may even reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·DateSep 7, 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.

Cellular metabolism self-adapts to protect against free radicals

Researchers at Max Planck Institute discovered a mechanism that allows cells to coordinate respiratory activity and degrade toxic oxygen radicals. This discovery may have significant implications for cancer research, as it could be used to target nutrition deficiency in tumour cells and render them more vulnerable.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

'Reboot' for healthier results

A study found that online tailored nutrition programs had no effect on reducing saturated fat intake, as measured by blood lipids. The researchers suggest exploring methods to improve the impact of computer-tailored interventions and incorporating social interaction.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateSep 7, 2011

Aggressive medical therapy could help prevent stroke

A national clinical trial found that intensive medical therapy reduced the risk of stroke and related death, while stenting increased it. Patients who received medical therapy alone had a lower risk of stroke and death compared to those who underwent stenting.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2011

Accessible and affordable care at heart of health-care technology grants

Researchers at UC San Diego have been awarded grants to develop innovative, affordable healthcare technologies. The projects include a smartphone-based disease diagnostic tool and a device that turns cell phones into microscopes, with the goal of improving chronic disease management and preventive care in underserved communities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 7, 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.

Equilibrium in the brain

The brain maintains its balance between excitation and inhibition through synaptic changes. Following a retinal lesion, nerve cells reduce their inhibitory synapses by 30% to compensate for lost information.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNeuron·DateSep 7, 2011

Sensory experience and rest control survival of newborn neurons in adults

Research reveals that newborn neurons in adults are more likely to survive if they undergo sensory experience followed by a period of rest. This survival is linked to structural reorganization of the olfactory bulb after feeding, and prior olfactory sensory experience enhances neuronal survival during sleep.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateSep 7, 2011

Boom in fracking for oil and gas recovery sparks new technology

The development of new proppant materials enables the production of oil and gas from previously inaccessible deposits. New high-tech ceramics and coated sands are being used to fracture open rock formations at depths of over a mile, increasing access to more difficult-to-recover reserves.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

Helicopter parents can impede child’s ability to play

A new North Carolina State University study found that helicopter parents can impede children's ability to engage in higher levels of physical activity. Researchers suggest that designing public parks with comfortable areas for parents to observe from a distance may reduce hovering and increase spontaneous play.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 7, 2011

'Dirty' wild mice may be more relevant immunology model

A study on natural killer cells in wild mice found that these mice have higher numbers of NK cells compared to lab mice, suggesting a closer representation of human immune systems. The findings support the hypothesis that environmental factors are needed to fully represent the immune system.

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

Running backs take hardest hits to the head, linemen take the most

A new study at Brown University measures head blows during games and practices over three seasons, documenting that running backs and quarterbacks suffer the hardest hits to the head. Linemen, however, were hit on the head most often, with doctors warning about the potential for subconcussive neurological damage from repeated impacts.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateSep 7, 2011

USC scientists identify key protein linked to acute liver failure

Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine identified a protein called Sab that protects the liver from acetaminophen toxicity in mice. Silencing this protein also prevents liver injury caused by apoptosis and other stressors, offering a potential new target for preventing drug-induced liver disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 7, 2011

Seeing isn't believing

A study by Yale University cognitive psychologists found that intense focus on objects can distort perception of where things are in relation to one another. Participants in the experiment reported the attended objects as closer together than they really were, while the other objects were seen as farther apart.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 7, 2011

Intoxication important in determining when some men commit sexual aggression

A review article finds that men who are prone to anger and have hostile attitudes toward women are more likely to commit sexual aggression when intoxicated. The study suggests that alcohol primarily influences the circumstances under which some men commit sexual assault, rather than who becomes sexually aggressive.

SourceWiley·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

UA Space Systems engineer, Moon Express Eye $30 million Google Lunar X Prize

The University of Arizona space systems engineer Roberto Furfaro and his colleagues have designed an autonomous guidance system that will fly the privately-funded Moon Express lander to the lunar surface. The $30 million X Prize is won by landing a spacecraft on the moon, deploying a robot, and sending back an image and data to Earth.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateSep 7, 2011

Spring flings may explain teen pregnancies peak

Researchers found a higher likelihood of conception in March among school-aged adolescents compared to adults. The study suggests that biological factors and increased access to contraception during Spring Break may contribute to this phenomenon.

SourceQueen's University·JournalJournal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology·DateSep 7, 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.

Intensive medical therapy more effective than stenting for preventing a second stroke

A large clinical trial has found that intensive medical treatment is more effective than stenting in preventing a second stroke in patients at high risk. The study, funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, showed that patients who received aggressive medical management had significantly fewer strokes and d...

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2011

UCSF, UC Merced to study effectiveness of anti-tobacco programs

Researchers will examine the effectiveness of state and local anti-smoking programs across the US. The study aims to inform government policy decisions and allocate resources efficiently. Tobacco control in California has already saved over $86 billion in health costs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateSep 7, 2011

Study reveals that nation's national forests can provide public health benefits

A recent study published in the Journal of Forestry reveals that US national forests can help Americans meet guidelines for regular physical activity. The study found that activities such as hiking, walking, and fishing account for about two-thirds of all visits to national forests, resulting in annual energy expenditures equivalent to...

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalJournal of Forestry·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

October 2011 Geology highlights

Researchers found diverse mineralogies in two troughs of Noctis Labyrinthus, Mars, indicating a potentially habitable environment and liquid water presence. Additionally, studies on EarthScope seismic observations and the formation of high delta18O fayalite-bearing A-type granite reveal key factors for these unique rock types.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateSep 7, 2011

Researchers Discuss Challenges to Developing Broadly Protective HIV Vaccines

Scientists are working on structure-based HIV vaccines and understanding the evolutionary processes of human B cells producing broadly neutralizing antibodies. New research tools and a better understanding of the human immune response offer optimism for developing an effective HIV vaccine.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2011

Evolution's past is modern human's present

Researchers discovered genetic material from extinct archaic humans, including Denisovans, contributing to present-day African populations. The study suggests that contemporary Africans contain about 2 percent of archaic DNA, which may hold beneficial genes for human physiology and disease resistance.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2011

Rice researchers power line-voltage light bulb with nanotube wire

Researchers at Rice University have successfully powered a fluorescent light bulb using a cable made of carbon nanotubes, which is six times lighter than copper and silver. The new material shows great promise for use in applications where weight is critical, such as airplanes and automobiles.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 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.

Computer-aided design used for breast tissue reconstruction

Researchers used computer-aided design to create accurate moulds and patient-specific physical scaffolds for breast tissue reconstruction. This technology holds promise for reducing scars, blood loss, and anaesthesia time, while improving surgical outcomes.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateSep 7, 2011