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Science News Archive 2006


Page 108 of 178

US ports vulnerable to devastating earthquake damage

A new project led by Georgia Tech aims to develop strategies to help ports manage seismic risk more effectively. The team will evaluate methods of preventing damage using large-scale tests and investigate applying similar approaches to managing risks from other natural hazards.

Mary-Claire King to receive the 2006 Weizmann Women & Science Award

Dr. Mary-Claire King has made significant contributions to the understanding of inherited breast cancer, discovering the BRCA1 gene that predisposes individuals to this widespread disease. Her work also explores human genetic diversity and evolution, as well as the application of genomics to human rights problems.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Mercury sponge' technology goes from lab to market

The SAMMS technology can selectively remove metal contaminants without creating hazardous waste or by-products, with initial targets including coal-fired power plants and municipal facilities. In tests, 99.9% of mercury was successfully removed from simulated wastewater, meeting EPA discharge limits.

Early treatment favored for multiple sclerosis

Research suggests that initiating MS therapy with an immunomodulating drug as soon as possible following a diagnosis can significantly reduce future disease activity and progression of disability. Studies have shown that delaying treatment is associated with more progression of disability and larger volumes of disease damage.

Selenium-protein deficiency raises prostate cancer risk

Research using transgenic mice found that lower levels of selenoproteins accelerate prostate cancer development, highlighting the importance of selenium-containing proteins in preventing cancer. Further research is needed to understand how selenium supplements can maximize benefits.

Late-breaking Digestive Disease Week news

A phase 3 clinical study found that nearly half of patients with advanced illness experienced laxation within four hours of receiving methylnaltrexone, and over 70% responded by the end of the first week. The treatment also showed no diminishment of analgesia due to medication.

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.

Sleeping less linked to weight gain

A large study of 68,183 middle-aged women found that those who slept 5 hours or less per night were more likely to experience major weight gain and become obese over 16 years. The researchers didn't find a link between sleep duration and physical activity levels.

DOE JGI finishes 100th microbial genome

The DOE JGI has completed its 100th microbial genome sequencing, marking a significant achievement in the field of microbiology. This milestone allows researchers to explore and expand their understanding of microorganisms' metabolic profiles and environmental implications.

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.

Characteristics of caregivers may increase symptoms in dementia patients

A study of nearly 6,000 dementia patients and their caregivers found that younger, less educated, and more depressed caregivers were associated with higher levels of behavioral symptoms. Understanding the link between caregiver characteristics and patient behaviors may lead to more effective treatment options.

Mayo Clinic studies find association between acid reflux and esophageal cancer

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found a significant association between acid reflux and esophageal cancer, with patients who experience acid reflux having a 30- to 125-fold increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. The study also discovered susceptibility genes in familial Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer.

Alcohol abuse increases the risk of suffering from pneumonia

A study published in Chest Journal found that alcohol abuse increases the risk of pneumonia, with decreased immune system activity being a key factor. The consequences of this study could have a significant impact on a high number of people, particularly in Spain where alcohol is a major cause of death.

Virtual colon screenings examined

Computed Tomographic Colonography (CTC) screening found extra-colonic abnormalities in approximately 16 percent of asymptomatic patients. The most common findings were coronary artery calcifications and non-calcified pulmonary nodules. CTC was also compared to optical colonoscopy (OC) for detecting polyps, with comparable accuracy in i...

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.

How did continents split? Geology study shows new picture

A new study provides an explanation for continental plate breakups, showing that they often occur along preexisting lines of weakness created during earlier collisions. The research uses geochemical fingerprinting to demonstrate this principle, shedding light on the history of the Rheic Ocean.

ST. John's Wort relieves bladder pain in animal models

Researchers found that St. John's Wort increased bladder contraction intervals in rats with bladder inflammation, reducing bladder hyperactivity and associated pain. The study suggests that the herbal supplement may be a viable treatment option for women suffering from interstitial cystitis, affecting 700,000 Americans.

APS physics tip sheet #62

Researchers have designed a new quantum processor core that keeps qubits active all the time, enabling faster calculations and making quantum computers more efficient. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in fields like molecular biology, biophysics, and materials science.

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.

RNA interference stops colon cancer spread in mice

Researchers used small interfering RNAs to block the spread of human colorectal cancer cells in laboratory mice, achieving a major reduction in liver cancer growth. The treatment also showed potential for increased cancer cell killing when combined with standard chemotherapeutic agents.

Botox: Its not just for wrinkles anymore

Researchers found Botox injections to improve urinary tract symptoms and quality of life in men with enlarged prostates. The treatment reduced prostate size through apoptosis, improving urine flow and decreasing residual urine.

New techniques ease colon cancer procedures for patients

A novel colonoscope using the NeoGuide System reduces looping and discomfort during colonoscopies, while entonox sedation provides effective pain relief and faster recovery. These advancements increase rates of colorectal cancer screening and improve patient satisfaction.

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.

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.

Ecologists home in on how sperm whales find their prey

Researchers tracked sperm whales using acoustic recording tags, finding that they produced 'buzzes' to locate cephalopods like squid during deep dives. This non-invasive method provides insight into the timing of prey detection and capture during dives.

Obesity linked to all types of breast cancer

Researchers found that women who gained more than 60 pounds during adulthood were almost twice as likely to have ductal type tumors and more than 1.5 times more likely to have lobular type cancers. The risk for metastatic disease increased with weight gain, particularly among those who gained over 60 pounds.

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.

Drug discovery team to explore newly discovered deep-sea reefs

Researchers have found diverse ecosystems and promising biological samples at newly discovered deep-sea reefs off Miami and Bimini. The team aims to explore these areas to identify factors responsible for their incredible diversity and potentially find new medicines.

MIT studies undersea channels for oil recovery

Researchers are re-creating submarine channel formation to understand their internal structure and improve oil recovery efficiency. The experiments have yielded counterintuitive results, revealing behaviors that differ from surface rivers due to differences in density.

Lead exposure leads to brain cell loss and damage years later

A new study has found a significant link between lead exposure and long-term brain cell loss and damage. Researchers measured the brains of former employees exposed to lead in their workplaces, finding those with higher levels had smaller brain volumes and more damage.

Women with COPD can fare worse than men

A study of 85 women with COPD found they had lower lung function, more trouble breathing, and a worse quality of life compared to men. The researchers suggest that comprehensive assessments can lead to improved treatment outcomes for all COPD patients

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.

Survivors of childhood cancer face unemployment hardship

Adults who survived childhood cancer are twice as likely to be unemployed than those without a history of childhood cancer. Those treated for brain or central nervous system tumors face a particularly high risk, while blood-cell and bone marrow cancer survivors experience an elevated but non-significant risk.

Dartmouth researchers test new technique to examine breast tissue

Researchers have developed a new integrated system that combines MRI and NIR imaging to quantify hemoglobin, water, and scattering values in breast tissue. This technique may help detect early tumor growth and characterize tumor stage by learning about its vascular and cellular makeup.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

MIT revamps energy system for more fuel-efficient cars

Researchers at MIT have created a new energy system that converts light into electricity, enabling more fuel-efficient cars. The system uses advanced materials and photonics to create intense light, which is then harnessed by photo diodes to power electrical systems.

More than just genetics: Lifestyle choices impact GI health

Researchers found that consuming foods with low glycemic levels and glycemic load can naturally stimulate metabolic response. A study on healthy volunteers also discovered that a low-glycemic-index-breakfast increased levels of the hormone peptide YY, promoting satiety and decreasing food intake.

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.

First characterization of chikungunya viruses from Indian Ocean outbreak

The Chikungunya outbreak in the Indian Ocean affects several islands and India, with a large portion of populations infected. The disease is caused by the chikungunya virus, spread by mosquito bites, and has no specific treatment. Genetic analysis reveals unique molecular features among outbreak strains.

Deep-water discovery

Researchers have discovered an extensive system of deepwater coral reefs off Miami and Bimini, which are likely to harbor diverse marine life. The newly mapped areas will be explored using submersibles and autonomous underwater vehicles to assess their ecological importance and search for pharmaceutical compounds.

Tackling the social roots of health inequities

This article emphasizes the importance of addressing social determinants of health inequities. It highlights the limitations of reductionism in medicine and suggests that a systems biology approach could be valuable for clinical medicine, focusing on the holistic characteristics of a problem rather than its component parts.

A dichotomy in migration patterns found for sea turtles in east Atlantic

Researchers have discovered a dichotomy in sea turtle migration patterns in the eastern Atlantic, revealing two distinct foraging strategies. The study found that adult turtles occupy different habitats and diets, with coastal adults being larger and feeding on arthropods, while oceanic adults are smaller and feed on floating plants.

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.

Invisible scars: Verbal abuse triggers adult anxiety, depression

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that verbal abuse in childhood can lead to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety in adulthood. The researchers studied data from over 5,600 participants aged 15-54 and found a strong correlation between verbal abuse and self-criticism.

The vicious cycle of rainforest destruction

Researchers investigate how changes in tropical vegetation affect carbon emissions and global climate change. They will make measurements in Africa, Australia, and South America to understand the conditions under which rainforests and savannas thrive.

Good physical function linked to Alzheimer's delay

Research at Group Health Research Institute found that participants with higher physical function were three times less likely to develop dementia. Regular exercise may help stave off dementia by improving and maintaining physical conditioning, say researchers.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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