Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for July 19, 2012


In utero exposure to diesel exhaust a possible risk factor for obesity

Research published in the FASEB Journal found that pregnant mice exposed to diesel exhaust were more likely to have obese offspring with insulin resistance. The study suggests a link between air pollution exposure in utero and metabolic disorders in adulthood. Males were particularly affected, while females only showed increased weight...

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

What did we learn from the 2010 California whooping cough epidemic?

A 2010 California whooping cough epidemic highlighted the importance of vaccination for adults, pregnant women, and infant contacts. The disease had the highest incidence in infants under 6 months, with Hispanics being most affected in this age group, while Whites were most affected among children and adolescents.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJul 19, 2012

Generation X is surprisingly unconcerned about climate change

A University of Michigan report found that Generation X is lukewarm about climate change, with a small but statistically significant decline in concern between 2009 and 2011. Only 5% of surveyed Gen Xers were alarmed, while 18% were concerned, with education and scientific knowledge being key factors in explaining levels of concern.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

UGA researchers develop rapid diagnostic test for pathogens, contaminants

The UGA team created a single-step method to rapidly detect viruses, bacteria, and chemical contaminants using nanotechnology. They successfully detected compounds in highly diluted samples and mixtures with dyes, suggesting the technology can be used for food, blood, saliva, and urine testing.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJul 19, 2012

Researchers pioneer game-changing approach for drought monitoring

Researchers at Arizona State University are developing a game-changing approach for drought monitoring using satellite detection and hydrologic models. The project aims to provide timely detection of drought events with high accuracy, enabling proactive decision-making for national water managers, irrigation districts, and policymakers.

SourceArizona State University·DateJul 19, 2012

Better management of traumatic brain injury

Researchers identified two enzymes, t-PA and MMP-3, that promote injury severity following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Inhibiting these enzymes may protect the brain from TBI by blocking the activation of MMP-3, which causes damage. The study provides a promising therapeutic target for treating human TBI.

SourceMonash University·JournalBrain·DateJul 19, 2012

TRMM sees Fabio's remnants fading in cool Pacific waters

The TRMM satellite observed hurricane remnants dissipating in cool Eastern Pacific waters due to upper-level winds and surface temperatures below the necessary threshold for tropical cyclone maintenance. The remnants contained only light to moderate rainfall, located north of the low-pressure center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Searching for 1,000 times the capacity of 4G wireless

Researchers are developing smaller, lighter antennas with directional beamforming to increase user capacity by 50-100 times in the millimeter-wave spectrum. The project aims to relieve pressure on 4G wireless networks and offer tremendous value to the $1 trillion cellular industry.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateJul 19, 2012

Reorganizing brain could lead to new stroke, tinnitus treatments

Researchers at UT Dallas discovered that nerve stimulation can reorganize the brain, leading to potential new treatments for stroke, tinnitus, autism, and other disorders. The technology involves pairing vagus nerve stimulation with specific experiences, such as movements or sounds, to alter brain activity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateJul 19, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Understanding flirtation in negotiation, 'shooter bias,' love during marriage, and more

New studies examine the role of flirtation in negotiations, finding it signals self-interest and competitiveness; individuals concerned with future consequences exercise more and adopt healthier habits; shooter biases may be driven by interpersonal threats rather than culture or race; husbands and wives express love differently in marr...

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJul 19, 2012

Immune drug helps patients with serious kidney disorder

A study found that rituximab, an immune drug, helped patients with serious kidney disorder idiopathic membranous nephropathy experience remission, even when standard therapies failed. The treatment was safe and well-tolerated, with all patients achieving complete or partial remission over time.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 19, 2012

Scientists take unprecedented snapshot of single sperm cell's genome

Researchers have developed a new technology that allows for an individualized map of the DNA within a single sperm cell, providing insights into genetic diversity and potential applications in reproductive disorders. This technology could also be used to characterize differences in cancer cells taken from patients.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

New ultracapacitor delivers a jolt of energy at a constant voltage

Researchers have designed an ultracapacitor that maintains a near-constant voltage, enabling its use in low-voltage electric vehicle circuits and handheld electronics. The device achieves this through an electromechanical system that slowly lifts the core out of the electrolyte solution as charge is released.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJul 19, 2012

New report describes 7 essential steps toward an AIDS-free generation

A new report identifies seven key areas where funding and political will are crucial to ending the AIDS epidemic. The report outlines a comprehensive plan for achieving an AIDS-free generation, including renewed scientific research and implementation of proven treatment tools.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateJul 19, 2012

Debate ends: Everyone was right

Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have developed a novel approach to count fluorescent molecules in a cluster, resolving the long-standing debate on centromere structure. By applying this method to yeast cells, they found that centromeric nucleosomes change their structure during cell division.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell·DateJul 19, 2012

New research questions how fat influences flavor perception

A joint study by University of Nottingham and Unilever found that fat in food reduces brain activity responsible for processing taste, aroma, and reward. The research provides insights into making healthier, less fatty food products with better taste and enjoyment.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalChemosensory Perception·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Blood vessel forming potential of stem cells from human placenta and umbilical cord blood

Researchers found that human placenta-derived endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) are more proliferative and better at forming new blood vessels than those derived from umbilical cord blood. The study, published in Cell Medicine, suggests that the placenta could be an abundant source of ECFCs for therapeutic use.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Medicine·DateJul 19, 2012

Novel anti-malarial drug target identified

Researchers at UC San Diego identified a key enzyme in malaria parasites that could lead to new anti-malarial drugs. The team discovered a selective inhibitor, ML276, which stops parasite growth even in resistant strains.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJul 19, 2012

Elder abuse affects Latinos disproportionately

A new study reveals a higher rate of elder abuse among Latino communities, with 10.7% experiencing physical abuse and 9% experiencing sexual abuse in the last year. The study highlights the need for culturally competent programs to raise awareness and prevent elder abuse within these communities.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 19, 2012

Of flies and men

A team of scientists has discovered an epigenetic enzyme that doubles the output of thousands of different genes in male fruit flies to compensate for their single X chromosome. The study found twice as many DNA-transcribing proteins attached to the male X chromosome compared to females.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Menu labeling requirements lead to healthier options at chain restaurants

A new study found that menu labeling in King County, Washington, resulted in improved nutritional profiles for some chain restaurant entrées, with decreases in energy, saturated fat, and sodium content. However, the majority of entrées continued to exceed recommended guidelines, highlighting the need for more moderate options.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJul 19, 2012

Research funding targets bone health

A team of scientists led by Robert Young is working on developing small molecule compounds and nano-medicines that stimulate bone regeneration, aiming to improve understanding of bone renewal biology and promote bone repair and regeneration. The grant is part of a $7 million funding package targeting bone health research.

SourceSimon Fraser University·DateJul 19, 2012

HPV improves survival for African-Americans with throat cancer

Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital discovered that African Americans with throat cancer who are HPV positive have significantly better overall survival rates compared to those without HPV. The study also found that African Americans with late-stage oropharyngeal cancer who are HPV negative face a higher risk of death.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJul 19, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Triangles guide the way for live neural circuits in a dish

Researchers at KAIST used triangular shapes to guide axon growth in a dish, finding that smaller vertices were more effective in inducing growth. The study aims to develop a reproducible neural circuit model for learning and memory studies as well as drug screening applications.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateJul 19, 2012

Strategies to improve renewable energy feedstocks

A comprehensive review of biomass feedstock characterization is crucial for developing biotechnology approaches to bioenergy and bioproducts. Researchers describe formulation, pretreatment, and densification options to improve biomass specifications for co-firing high percentages with coal.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalIndustrial Biotechnology·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

A good night's sleep could keep you out of a nursing home

Research suggests that fragmented sleep patterns are associated with a higher risk of being placed in a nursing home or assisted living facility. Studies have also linked insufficient sleep to chronic diseases and conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 19, 2012

Study questions safety and effectiveness of common kidney disease drugs

A recent study has questioned the safety and effectiveness of commonly prescribed kidney disease drugs, which may cause unexpected harm to blood vessels. The study found that these drugs did not substantially reduce serum phosphorus levels and may be associated with cardiovascular problems in patients with chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 19, 2012

NASA sees sun send out mid-level solar flare

A mid-level solar flare, classified as M7.7, was detected by NASA on July 19, 2012, causing brief radio communications blackouts at the poles. Increased numbers of flares are expected during the sun's peak activity cycle, which is approaching its maximum in 2013.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2012

Belgian scientists develop way to detect superparasites

Belgian scientists have developed a simple assay to track 'superparasites', a type of Leishmania parasite that causes deadly visceral leishmaniasis. This breakthrough could help monitor the spread and emergence of these drug-resistant microbes, contributing to better control of the disease.

SourceInstitute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJul 19, 2012

An earthquake in a maze

A Caltech-led team reports on the first high-resolution observations of the 2012 Sumatra earthquake, which ruptured along multiple faults at nearly right angles. The study provides fresh insights into the possibility of complex earthquakes occurring elsewhere, including California's San Andreas fault.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Scientists read monkeys' inner thoughts

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis decoded the brain activity of two monkeys performing a reaching task, revealing distinct planning strategies and cognitive styles. The study found that one monkey, hyperactive, jumped the gun while the other, smooth operator, waited for the target to appear.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Preclinical data support ongoing clinical trials testing IDO inhibitors as a treatment for cancer

A preclinical study published in Cancer Discovery reports genetic validation for ongoing clinical trials testing IDO inhibitors in cancer patients. The findings suggest that IDO promotes tumorigenesis by enhancing vascularization and modifying the inflammatory environment, particularly in lung adenocarcinoma and metastatic disease.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJul 19, 2012

Red hair is a sign of oxidative stress in wild boars, but gray is a-ok

Research found that wild boars with more reddish hair have higher levels of oxidative stress due to the consumption of glutathione by pheomelanin production. However, surprisingly, gray-haired boars showed signs of good condition and lower oxidative damage. This study suggests that different levels of melanin may have physiological con...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateJul 19, 2012

Meta-analysis: Interventions improve depression in cancer patients

A meta-analysis of 10 studies found that cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacologic interventions decrease depressive symptoms in cancer patients. The study also identified effective interventions for different stages of cancer and cultural subpopulations.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 19, 2012

Engineering the 'smart health care' of the future

Researchers will develop nanocomposites for medical implants that break down safely, replacing metal implants in bone surgery. The project tackles challenges in nanoparticle production, dispersion, degradation, and scaling up manufacture.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Lack of insurance linked to advanced stage cervical cancer

A large national sample of women diagnosed with cervical cancer between 2000 and 2007 found that lack of insurance was the second strongest predictor of late-stage diagnosis, after age. The study suggests that screening should be made accessible and affordable for all women at higher risk of advanced-stage disease.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 19, 2012

Tropical Depression Khanun blankets South Korea

Tropical Depression Khanun made landfall in South Korea on July 19, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds that caused widespread flooding and power outages. The storm's remnants moved over the Sea of Japan by 11 a.m. EDT, leaving behind significant damage and one reported fatality.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2012

Scientists discover melanoma-driving genetic changes caused by sun damage

Researchers identified six genes with driving mutations in melanoma, three of which have recurrent 'hotspot' mutations caused by UV light exposure. The study provides potential targets for new treatments and offers insights into the frequency and characteristics of driver mutations.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCell·DateJul 19, 2012

New study announced that will use genetics to test for Alzheimer's risk

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital are conducting a new study, REVEAL, which will provide genetic testing and Alzheimer's risk estimates for individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The goal is to evaluate how well participants understand the risk information and adjust their behavior in response.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Disorderly conduct

Researchers examine relationship between disorder and quantum coherence in materials, finding that a pinch of disorder is good but too much can destroy coherence. The Joint Quantum Institute experiment uses laser beams to introduce slight disorder into rubidium atoms, revealing how it affects their behavior.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJul 19, 2012

Locating muscle proteins

Max Planck scientists have successfully imaged the actin-myosin-tropomyosin complex with a resolution of less than one-millionth of a millimeter. This breakthrough allows researchers to accurately identify protein locations and analyze muscle contraction processes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell·DateJul 19, 2012

IRVE-3 flight hardware test sounding rocket

IRVE-3 is the third in a series of suborbital flight tests for an innovative heat shield technology. The experiment aims to create an aeroshell using high-tech inner tubes and a thermal blanket, protecting a payload with camera gear, telemetry equipment, and steering mechanisms.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Team discovers how western corn rootworm resists crop rotation

A new study reveals that the western corn rootworm's resistance to crop rotation is linked to increased levels of protein-degrading enzymes in its gut. The insects can survive longer on soybeans and cause more damage than their non-resistant counterparts, allowing them to lay eggs in bean fields.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJul 19, 2012

Farmers tough on artificial limbs

A Northwestern University study reveals that farmers and ranchers with major limb amputations struggle with durable, affordable, and adaptable prosthetics. These limitations hinder their ability to perform farm tasks, making traditional prosthetic solutions unsuitable for their unique needs.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJul 19, 2012

3-D tumor models improve drug discovery success rate

Researchers suggest using multicellular tumor spheroid (MCTS) models to improve cancer drug discovery, as they more accurately mimic human tumors. MCTS models can help identify specific genetic mutations targeted by drugs and interact with the surrounding environment.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalExpert Opinion on Drug Discovery·DateJul 19, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

How to build a middleweight black hole

Intermediate-mass black holes can grow in galaxy gas disks through a mechanism similar to giant planet formation. The 'runaway growth' phenomenon allows stellar black holes to swallow stars and increase their mass, potentially creating an intermediate-mass black hole.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 19, 2012

Stem cell research aids understanding of cancer

A new study published in the journal Stem Cell reveals an antibody developed by researchers can detect stem cells in organs like the liver and pancreas. This breakthrough helps understand tissue regeneration and cancer diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalStem Cells·DateJul 19, 2012

Scientists connect seawater chemistry with climate change and evolution

Researchers from the University of Toronto and University of California Santa Cruz discovered a link between massive gypsurn deposits and changes in seawater chemistry. This connection may have led to global cooling periods, such as during the Eocene epoch, and is supported by data from the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateJul 19, 2012

Beneficial bacteria may help ward off infection

Researchers explore the role of Lactobacillus reuteri in protecting against foodborne infection, finding that its antimicrobial substance reuterin can protect intestinal epithelial cells from Salmonella infection. The study's results suggest the efficacy of using probiotic bacteria or their derivatives in future therapies.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Think pink! Success of pink bacteria in oceans of the world

Researchers at Leibniz-Institute DSMZ discovered that Roseobacter clade bacteria can exchange genetic characteristics through plasmids, allowing them to conquer new ecological niches. This horizontal gene transfer enables photosynthesis and enhances survival in diverse ocean habitats.

SourceLeibniz-Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cellcultures·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

Being in awe can expand time and enhance well-being

Research finds that experiencing awe can alter an individual's subjective experience of time by slowing it down. Awe also influences decisions, makes life feel more satisfying, and increases willingness to volunteer time to help others.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 19, 2012

Colorful science sheds light on solar heating

A new technique developed by NASA scientist Nicholeen Viall uses color-coded images to track the 12-hour history of cooling and heating on the sun. The technique reveals that coronal heating is likely caused by numerous nanobursts of energy, lending credence to those theories.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2012

The search for medical technologies abroad

Researchers study Bolivian and Paraguayan families' medical travel experiences seeking pediatric oncology care in Argentina. Medical travel can be a strategy for economically challenged patients to save their lives, but it also carries challenges like relocation uncertainty.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateJul 19, 2012

The Yin and Yang of stem cell quiescence and proliferation

Researchers have identified a molecular cue that maintains a quiescent pool of blood-forming stem cells in mouse bone marrow by regulating non-canonical Wnt-signaling. The study found that Flamingo and Frizzled 8 play a crucial role in maintaining the balance between long-term maintenance and ongoing tissue maintenance and regeneration.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell·DateJul 19, 2012

SIAM-NSF Workshop on Modeling across the curriculum

The workshop focuses on increasing mathematical modeling across undergraduate curricula, developing STEM courses based on modeling and computation, and assessing college STEM readiness. It also proposes ideas for multidisciplinary STEM education and introduces a high school applied mathematics program to integrate STEM subjects.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJul 19, 2012
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.

University of Texas Medical Branch to study hospital readmission

Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch will study hospital readmissions for high-volume, high-cost patients receiving post-acute inpatient rehabilitation services. The goal is to identify factors associated with readmissions and improve discharge planning.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·DateJul 19, 2012