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Science News for June 10, 2012


Researchers develop a 'time bomb' to fight cardiovascular disease

A team of researchers has developed a 'time bomb' nanocontainer that releases vasodilator content exclusively to diseased areas, increasing treatment efficacy and reducing side effects. This technology exploits the physical phenomenon of shear stress in stenosed arteries to deliver targeted therapy.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 10, 2012

Quick, simple test developed to identify patients who will not respond to the painkiller tramadol

Researchers have developed a simple blood test that can identify patients who will not respond to the painkiller tramadol. The test measures the ratio of tramadol's metabolite O-demethyltramadol (ODT) to tramadol itself, allowing doctors to switch non-responding patients to alternative painkillers like morphine.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·DateJun 10, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Undersea volcano gave off signals before eruption in 2011

Researchers at Oregon State University used data from underwater hydrophones and seismic analysis to detect an abrupt spike in energy about 2.6 hours before the eruption, suggesting a new method for predicting undersea volcanic activity. The study also revealed insights into the link between magma intrusion and seafloor deformation.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 10, 2012

'Bad' dieting increases cardiovascular disease risk

A 25-year study in Northern Sweden found that a switch to low-carbohydrate diets after reducing fat intake led to an increase in cholesterol levels, indicating a higher cardiovascular risk. Despite initial success in reducing cholesterol levels through dietary changes, the population's BMI continued to rise over time.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition Journal·DateJun 10, 2012

Decoding DNA finds breast tumor signatures that predict treatment response

Researchers identified distinct cancer signatures linked to treatment response in breast tumors, which could help personalize treatment for patients. The study found mutations in genes like TP53 and MAP3K1 associated with good response to aromatase inhibitors, while others like MALAT1 predicted poor outcomes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 10, 2012

Sleep deprivation may lead to higher anxiety levels, fMRI scans show

Research using fMRI scans found that sleep loss significantly amplifies anticipatory activity in deep emotional brain centers, especially the amygdala. Participants who were more anxious showed the greatest vulnerability to the aggravating effects of sleep deprivation.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateJun 10, 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.

Scripps Research scientists develop new tools to unveil mystery of the 'glycome'

Researchers have developed chemical compounds that selectively block the attachment of sugar molecules to cells, potentially leading to new treatments for chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. The new tools can help scientists understand how glycans influence cell function and behavior.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 10, 2012

Researchers watch tiny living machines self-assemble

University of Montreal researchers developed a strategy to monitor protein assembly by integrating fluorescent probes throughout the linear protein chain. This approach enables capturing snapshots of protein shape at each stage of assembly, shedding light on how proteins self-assemble into working nanomachines.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 10, 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.

Scientists reveal structure of bacterial chainmail

Researchers have imaged S-layer of Geobacillus stearothermophilus bacterium down to atomic scale, revealing chainmail-like structure that provides tough yet flexible protection and allows nutrients to diffuse in and out. This discovery holds promise for developing new vaccines by exploiting the ability of S-layers to self-assemble.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalNature·DateJun 10, 2012

Positive results from first human clinical trials of a first-generation artificial pancreas system is significant step forward for millions with type 1 diabetes

The Hypoglycemia-Hyperglycemia Minimizer (HHM) System successfully detects blood glucose highs and lows, automatically adjusting insulin delivery to safely manage type 1 diabetes. The study's findings lay the groundwork for further clinical trials and a potential game-changer for millions living with the condition.

SourceTonic Life Communications·DateJun 10, 2012

New insight into placental growth and healthy pregnancy

Scientists have discovered that the controlled release of microRNA miR-675 slows down placental growth before birth, regulating a key factor in healthy pregnancy. This finding has important implications for understanding how environmental signals and diet may influence fetal development.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 10, 2012