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Science News Archive July 2013 - Page 30


Page 30 of 31

Study finds biochemical role of crucial TonB protein in bacterial iron transport and pathogenesis

A Kansas State University-led study reveals that the TonB protein plays a central role in the uptake of iron by Gram-negative bacteria, which cause diseases like typhoid fever and meningitis. The research found that TonB acts as an electric motor that rotates in response to cellular energy flow, enabling iron acquisition into the cell.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

UCLA discovery sheds light on why Alzheimer's meds rarely help

Researchers discovered that Alzheimer's drugs designed to target amyloid plaques are ineffective against small Aβ clumps called oligomers. Future studies aim to develop new drugs specifically targeting these oligomers to potentially treat the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 1, 2013

A nanotech fix for nicotine dependence

Researchers at Arizona State University are developing a new DNA nanostructure-based vaccine to combat nicotine dependence. The approach uses precision control over the placement of antigenic components to stimulate an immune response and recruit antibodies capable of binding with nicotine, potentially improving efficacy and safety.

SourceArizona State University·DateJul 1, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UCLA stem cell gene therapy for sickle cell disease advances toward clinical trials

Researchers at UCLA's Eli and Edythe Broad Center have successfully established a foundation for using hematopoietic stem cells to treat sickle cell disease. The breakthrough technique uses anti-sickling genes to create healthy red blood cells that do not sickle, offering a revolutionary alternative to current treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2013

Cattle flatulence doesn't stink with biotechnology

Researchers used biotechnologies to increase food production while lowering harmful gas emissions from cattle. The study found that biotechnology treatments improved milk production and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalAnimal Frontiers·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

GW researcher discovers new regulatory autism gene

Valerie Hu's study reveals RORA regulates more than 2,500 genes, many involved in neuronal development and functions. The gene's expression is reduced in RORA-deficient brain tissues from individuals with autism.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalMolecular Autism·DateJul 1, 2013

Univ. of Maryland review finds mixed results for acupuncture to improve in vitro fertilization rates

A systematic analysis of acupuncture and in vitro fertilization (IVF) found that adding acupuncture to IVF treatment increased pregnancy success rates at fertility clinics with lower baseline pregnancy rates. The study, published in Human Reproduction Update, suggests that acupuncture may be beneficial as an add-on procedure for these ...

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalHuman Reproduction Update·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Cross-species malaria immunity induced by chemically attenuated parasites

Researchers have developed a malaria vaccine using blood-stage parasites that are chemically attenuated, inducing immunity to multiple species. The study demonstrates protective immunity in mice for over 100 days, suggesting a promising approach to target human malaria species.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2013

Breakthrough discovery into the regulation of a key cancer drug target

Researchers at the University of Leicester have made a groundbreaking discovery into the regulation of a key cancer drug target. The study, funded by £2.4 million from the Wellcome Trust, reveals that signalling molecules called inositol phosphates play a crucial role in controlling gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 1, 2013

Thyroid cancer -- rising most rapidly among insured patients

A study found that access to healthcare is a key driver in the increasing incidence of thyroid cancer. Insured individuals are more likely to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer than those without insurance, highlighting the need for targeted measures to prevent overdiagnosis.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalThyroid·DateJul 1, 2013

High rate of herbal supplement use by cosmetic plastic surgery patients

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reveals that nearly half of cosmetic plastic surgery patients take herbal supplements, which can increase complication risk. The study advises patients to stop taking supplements at least two weeks before surgery to minimize risks.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJul 1, 2013

Yale team finds protein essential for cognition -- and mental health

A Yale team identified a key molecular mechanism underlying higher-order thinking, which is impaired in schizophrenia. The discovery of the alpha7 nicotinic receptor's role in cognitive function may lead to new treatments for cognitive disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Long term night shifts linked to doubling of breast cancer risk

A recent study has found a significant link between long-term night shifts and an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who worked night shifts for 30 or more years were twice as likely to develop the disease, highlighting the importance of workplace policy.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJul 1, 2013

Getting kids to eat their veggies: A new approach to an age-old problem

A new approach to getting kids to eat their veggies involves teaching them a conceptual framework for nutrition, which encourages understanding of why eating a variety of foods is ideal and increases vegetable consumption. The study found that preschoolers who were taught about nutrition showed more knowledge about nutrition and increa...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 1, 2013

Exercise-induced improvements in glycemic control and type 2 diabetes

A study found that exercise-induced improvements in glycemic control are dependent on pre-training blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetes status. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise improved body weight, body fat, fasting plasma glucose, and 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test results.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 1, 2013

'Modern slavery' in England is a prevalent problem

Researchers found widespread 'modern slavery' in England among refugees and asylum seekers, with coercion and abuse common, and calls for improved welfare support and workplace regulation to prevent exploitation. The study's findings highlight the need to recognize and address forced labor as a criminal offense.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Neuroblastoma: Autophagy protects from chemotherapy

Researchers found that neuroblastoma cells with low levels of HDAC10 enzyme are more resistant to chemotherapy, and blocking this enzyme using autophagy prevents cancer cell survival. The study suggests a new approach for treating aggressive neuroblastoma tumors.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

Researchers discover new way to block inflammation

Researchers discovered a common biochemical thread to multiple diseases and found that CD36 draws soluble particles inside cells, triggering an inflammatory response. Blocking the CD36 receptor reduces inflammation and improves symptoms in mice with atherosclerosis.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 1, 2013

Curious mix of precision and brawn in a pouched super-predator

Researchers used computer models to study the predatory behavior of Thylacosmilus atrox, a 3.5 million-year-old sabre-toothed super-predator. The results show that the animal relied on powerful forearms and precise neck muscles to kill its prey efficiently.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Breakthrough in El Nino forecasting

Scientists at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research have developed a novel approach to forecast El Niño events, extending the prediction time to one year or more. The method employs network analysis and was tested successfully, predicting the absence of an El Niño event in the last year.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

Surprise superconductor

Scientists found superconductivity in carbon disulfide at -449°F, a highly disordered state that defies conventional understanding of superconductivity. The discovery could lead to new insights into the interplay between superconductivity, magnetism, and structural disorder.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

New generation electronic games boosts kids' physical activity at home

Replacing older sedentary electronic games with newer active versions significantly boosts daily physical activity levels among kids, with a 3-4 minute increase. Removing all devices also leads to a 4-5 minute decrease in sedentary time and a small but significant increase in moderate to vigorous physical activity.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJul 1, 2013

Inactivation of taste genes causes male sterility

Researchers found that inactivating taste genes TAS1R3 and GNAT3 caused male sterility in mice, leading to malformed and fewer sperm. The study suggests that certain compounds, such as fibrates, could be negatively impacting human fertility.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

GPM spreads its wings in solar array deployment test

The GPM Core satellite completed two pre-vibration solar array deployment tests, simulating the satellite's deployment in space. The successful tests showcased the satellite's support system and air cushion design, which reduce friction and mimic how the solar array would float in space.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 1, 2013

How the body aids and abets the spread of cancer

A new study by RI-MUHC researchers identifies a previously unknown mode of cancer progression, where infection-fighting white blood cells activate cancer cells and facilitate their spread to secondary tumours. Medications already used for other non-cancer diseases may prevent this mechanism of cancer spread or metastasis.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2013

WSU researchers create superconductor from solvent

Researchers at Washington State University have created a superconductor capable of transmitting electrical current with zero resistance. By compressing carbon disulfide under high pressure and cooling it to near absolute zero, they achieved a material that exhibits properties like magnetism and superhardness.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Creating a more diverse future for biomedicine

The program, MARC U STAR, will provide four undergraduates per year with tuition, fees, and a stipend to pursue doctoral study in the biomedical sciences. The initiative is part of MSU's goal to create a more diverse future for biomedicine.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJul 1, 2013

Cloud behavior expands habitable zone of alien planets

A new study by the University of Chicago and Northwestern University expands the habitable zone for alien planets orbiting red dwarfs, doubling the number of potentially habitable planets. The research suggests that up to 60 billion planets may be habitable in the Milky Way galaxy.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 1, 2013

Mapping the benefits of our ecosystems

Ecologists Monica Turner and Jiangxiao Qiu mapped ecosystem services in the Yahara River watershed, finding complex interactions between provisioning, cultural, and regulating services. The study identifies areas with high levels of multiple services, suggesting a holistic approach to land management.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

Nottingham leads £18 million national power electronics research center

The University of Nottingham has established a leading £18 million national power electronics research centre to develop the next generation of power electronics components and devices. The centre will bring together academics and industry partners to create an environment for innovation and knowledge transfer.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Wiggling worms make waves in gene pool

Researchers at Rice University analyzed thousands of mutant worms to identify genes controlling movement, revealing 87 new links in the process. The study also uncovered evidence for a protein-signaling pathway regulating locomotion, with implications for prioritizing genetic tests in humans.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

Potential gene therapy for Sickle cell disease

Researchers have successfully used a genetic vector to efficiently transduce bone marrow cells from SCD patients, suggesting a potential treatment method. The study's findings support the use of autologous HSC transplant with genetically modified patient cells to treat sickle cell disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2013

Study suggests quality initiatives needed to reduce repeat lipid testing

A study analyzing 35,191 patients with coronary heart disease found that about one-third of those who achieved low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goals underwent repeat lipid testing. This may result in significant healthcare resource overuse and waste, estimated to cost around $203,990 annually in one VA network.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Head Start children and parents show robust gains in new intervention

A new eight-week intervention involving Head Start children and their parents produced significant improvements in attention, brain functions, and parental stress. The program's focus on selective attention and positive parenting practices led to improved cognitive abilities and reduced stress levels.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

Children with delayed motor skills struggle more socially

A new study published in Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly found that children with autism who struggled with motor skills such as catching and throwing had more severe social and communication skills. Developing motor skills can be crucial for children, enabling them to participate in physical activities and socialize with peers.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAdapted Physical Activity Quarterly·DateJul 1, 2013

Vitamin C helps control gene activity in stem cells

Researchers at UCSF discovered that vitamin C helps release brakes on genes in mouse stem cells, potentially playing a key role in normal development. This finding may lead to the use of vitamin C in IVF and cancer treatments, as it can stimulate gene activity similar to early embryonic development.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateJul 1, 2013

UNC murine study predicts cancer drug responsiveness in human tumors

The UNC team developed biomarkers for challenging molecular subtypes of human breast cancer using genetically engineered mouse models. They found that these models accurately predicted human response to chemotherapy drugs, providing valuable insights into breast cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Researchers use immunocytochemistry to determine ALK status

Researchers developed a highly accurate method to detect ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer using immunocytochemistry. The study found that this method had high sensitivity and specificity, making it suitable for prescreening NSCLC patients.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJul 1, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for July 2, 2013

Salsalate shows promise as a type 2 diabetes treatment, reducing A1C and fasting blood glucose levels, but increases risk of hypoglycemia. Black men are less likely to have advanced colorectal neoplasia found at screening than white men, with disparities attributed to access and modifiable risk factors.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 1, 2013

Silver Fire, New Mexico

The Silver Fire, burning in southern New Mexico's Gila National Forest, has consumed over 133,625 acres as of July 1. The fire, caused by a lightning strike on June 7, is partially contained at 50 percent.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 1, 2013
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.

Psychology influences markets

Researchers found that partition dependence, where breaking down possible outcomes into specific intervals, leads people to overestimate the likelihood of certain events. This bias was observed in various prediction markets, including lab experiments and natural markets, such as horse racing.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013

A calculator to estimate the likelihood of antidepressant response

A new online risk calculator estimates an individual's likelihood of treatment resistance to antidepressants, providing a graphical estimate based on statistical patterns from the STAR*D study. The calculator aims to help clinicians design personalized treatment plans for patients with depression.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 1, 2013

Long-term cannabis use may blunt the brain's motivation system

Researchers found lower dopamine levels in long-term cannabis users compared to non-users, suggesting a possible link between cannabis use and motivation issues. The study also suggests that cannabis use may be the cause of altered dopamine systems, which could explain increased risk of mental illnesses like schizophrenia.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 1, 2013