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Science News Archive 2006


Page 71 of 178

Teens who do use condoms often don't use them properly

Research reveals that young people who use condoms often apply them too late or remove them too soon, increasing the risk of unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Those with a close relationship with their mothers are more likely to use condoms correctly.

Virtual communities may foster mental health in severely ill kids

A pilot research study led by Marina Bers explores how virtual environments can promote positive development in post-transplant adolescents and encourage adherence to treatment protocols. The study uses a three-dimensional virtual world called Zora, where children create and control their own identities and interact with others.

Landscapes and human behavior

Researchers at Arizona State University's Polytechnic campus conducted a landscaping experiment to examine the impact of environmental surroundings on human behavior. The study found that individuals living in areas with lush landscapes preferred more recreational spaces, while those in desert environments barely knew their neighbors.

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.

Today's babies are fatter babies

A 22-year study by Harvard Medical School found that the prevalence of overweight children increased from 6.3% to 10%, while infants showed a 59% rise in risk and a 74% increase in number of overweight infants. This suggests that efforts to prevent obesity must start early, even before birth.

New flood-tolerant rice offers relief for world's poorest farmers

A gene that enables rice to survive complete submergence has been identified, allowing for development of new rice varieties that can withstand flooding. The discovery is expected to increase food security for 70 million poor people and reduce yield losses from weeds in areas like the United States.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Arctic nations' wealth key to management of climate change

Experts recommend Arctic nations designate marine protected areas, foster economic adaptation, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to cope with climate change. Implementing these policies could significantly slow the rates of Arctic change.

Evolution of the penis worm

A team of scientists has revealed detailed images of embryos over 500 million years old, shedding light on the evolutionary changes of the penis worm. The study uses synchrotron-radiation X-ray tomographic microscopy to reconstruct internal anatomy and reveals unique patterns in embryonic development.

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.

SNAP wins NASA support for Joint Dark Energy Mission

SNAP, a NASA-supported mission, aims to measure the expansion history of the universe and investigate dark energy. Using two independent techniques, it will analyze thousands of Type Ia supernovae and independently probe the growth structure of the universe.

Kodak pianos? Buick aspirin?

A study found that exposure to similar logos reduces brand-exclusive recall by one-third, on average. Consumers' relative knowledge of the two product categories also impacts retrieval.

Defense peptide found in primates may block some human HIV transmissions

Researchers at University of Central Florida have discovered a defense peptide that can effectively block the HIV-1 virus from entering and infecting blood cells. The peptide, retrocyclin, has shown minimal resistance to the virus over 100 days, making it a promising candidate for developing an affordable treatment.

Popular statin reduces recurrent stroke risk

A five-year study found that taking atorvastatin soon after a stroke can reduce the risk of recurrent stroke by 16 percent in people with no known history of coronary heart disease. The study also showed that atorvastatin reduces the risk of other major coronary events, such as heart attack and cardiovascular events.

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.

Never marrieds run highest risk of early death

A recent study published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that never-married individuals are 58% more likely to die between 1989 and 1997 compared to their married peers. The 'never married penalty' is higher for those in excellent health, but not among the poor or elderly.

Genetic snooze button governs timing of spring flowers

Researchers have uncovered a genetic 'snooze button' that regulates when plants bloom in the spring, allowing them to compete for resources. The study's findings offer hints at precise control over flowering, essential for agriculture and plant reproduction.

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.

More than 3 percent of US teens have exchanged sex for money or drugs

A large representative survey found that 3.5% of adolescents in the US had ever exchanged sex for drugs or money, with higher rates among African American youths and those from non-traditional family setups. The study also showed a significant link between exchanging sex and drug use, as well as depression and having been forced into sex.

Terrorism and mental health focus of NIMH-funded study

A $2.25 million NIMH-funded study is being conducted at Kent State University to examine the psychological impact of ongoing terrorism on PTSD and depression. The study aims to identify factors that exacerbate mental health issues, such as prior trauma exposure and social support.

New hope for Hepatitis C research

Scientists replicated HCV in mouse cells using a gene called protein kinase R, blocking the virus's high rate of replication. This breakthrough may lead to better understanding of why some patients respond to treatment, potentially shedding light on new therapeutic strategies.

Fair price hikes vs. unfair price hikes

A new study from the University of Chicago Press Journals reveals that consumers perceive price hikes differently for material goods and services. Consumers consider fair price increases when costs associated with production or provision increase, but not when service costs and vendor profits are linked.

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.

Transcendental Meditation reduces the brain's reaction to pain

Research suggests Transcendental Meditation can modify brain function to reduce trait anxiety and stress reactivity, improving outcomes for those with acute and chronic pain. The study's findings have implications for pain management and treatment of conditions like depression and anxiety.

Arctic coring expedition continues to yield new clues

The IODP Arctic Coring Expedition has provided new evidence that the Arctic was extremely warm and ice-free up to 55 million years ago, during the Paleocene/Eocene thermal maximum. This period saw a massive release of greenhouse gases, leading to significant temperature rises and changes in ocean chemistry.

How angry customers get revenge (and create civic protest)

Researchers found strong parallels between consumer complaint websites and civic protest movements, with consumers using rhetorical tactics to address injustice and agency. Consumers targeted companies like American Express and United Airlines, framing their grievances as a cause worthy of public attention.

EMBL scientists found start-up company to develop anti-cancer drugs

EMBL scientists have founded a start-up company called Elara Pharmaceuticals GmbH to develop new anti-cancer drugs. The company will take promising small molecule leads from EMBL's Chemical Biology Core Facility and further develop them for evaluation in animal models of various types of cancer.

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.

Brain chemical plays critical role in drinking and anxiety

A brain protein called BDNF plays a critical role in regulating anxiety and alcohol consumption in rats. Lower levels of BDNF in specific areas of the brain increased anxiety and drinking behavior, while restoring normal BDNF levels diminished these effects.

Strong evidence of a genetic risk factor for Parkinson's disease

A large international study provides strong evidence that common genetic variants in the alpha-synuclein gene contribute to Parkinson's disease worldwide. Variability in this gene is associated with a 1.5 times greater risk for the disease, highlighting potential therapies to reduce alpha-synuclein protein production.

Africans much better than North Americans at taking anti-HIV meds

Research reveals that African HIV-infected patients have significantly higher rates of adherence to antiretroviral regimens, with 77% taking their medications as directed compared to 59% in North America. This contradicts historical assumptions about poor adherence among Africans.

True colors are in the brain of the beholder

A University of New South Wales PhD student has discovered a way to measure brain waves to diagnose and monitor color perception diseases. The study found that brain activity patterns could be used to reveal the finest color discriminations individuals can make, potentially leading to a new visual health test.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Smoking out the links between nutrition and oral cancer

Researchers investigated nutritional links between smoking and oral cancer, finding folate levels lower in smokers' blood and cheek cells. Smokers also had altered forms of folate distribution, while antioxidants like carotenoids and vitamin E showed similar trends. More studies are needed to clarify these findings.

How the adrenal 'clock' keeps the body in synch

Researchers have elucidated the role of adrenal clocks in maintaining circadian rhythms. The adrenal gland contains a peripheral clock that defines a time window for responding to external stimuli, regulating corticosterone release and stabilizing physiological rhythms.

Agriculture and tropical conservation: rethinking old ideas

University of Michigan researchers John Vandermeer and Ivette Perfecto argue that peasant farming practices actually support conservation in the tropics. The study found that agroforests, where fruit and timber trees share space with other crops, serve as thoroughfares for migrating animals and promote biodiversity.

Unmasking nutrition's role in genes and birth defects

Researchers developed a way to discover how genes and diet interact to cause birth defects using transparent fish embryos. They found that copper metabolism affects embryonic development, leading to insights into structural birth defects like scoliosis.

Automated external defibrillators are frequently recalled

A new study finds that automated external defibrillators (AEDs) have a greater than 20% chance of being recalled for potential malfunction over the past decade. The devices, used to resuscitate victims of sudden cardiac arrest, are complex medical devices that can sometimes malfunction.

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.

What's nature worth? New computer models tell all

A new project aims to create fast and sophisticated computer models to understand ecosystem dynamics and value for any spot on earth. The models will help policymakers identify specific ecosystem services and their impacts, enabling informed decisions on land use.

A nursery for hurricanes

University of Utah meteorologist Ed Zipser leads a NASA mission to study African weather disturbances that intensify into hurricanes. The study aims to improve hurricane prediction and understanding of extreme events like category 5 storms.

NHLBI offers complete guide to physical activity for a healthy heart

The NHLBI guide provides information on the impact of physical activity on your heart, including tips for incorporating physical activity into daily life. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy heart, with benefits including burning extra calories, building stamina, and improving balance.

Frank M. Richter to receive GSA 2006 Arthur L. Day Medal

Dr. Frank M. Richter is recognized for his contributions to solving geologic problems through physics and chemistry applications. His work on mantle dynamics, thermal evolution of Earth, and fluid dynamics has defined the state-of-the-art in the field.

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.

New study reveals Rett syndrome can strike males

Researchers confirm four new cases of Rett syndrome in boys with no family history, highlighting need for prenatal diagnosis and pediatrician awareness. The condition affects mostly females due to the presence of a single X chromosome, but its incidence may be higher than initially thought.

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.

Diamond technology to revolutionize mobile communications

Researchers develop diamond resonators and oscillators for next-generation telecommunication devices, enabling higher data communication rates. The UNCD material exhibits exceptional mechanical properties, allowing for reliable and affordable production of tuning fork devices.

Failure of 'scout cells' may lead to cancer in transplant patients

A new study suggests that post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) arises when immune cells called scout cells become weakened, allowing the Epstein-Barr virus to cause cancer. The study identifies a mechanism that may explain why some patients develop PTLD and others don't.

Kids need more time than adults give them, study finds

A study published in Developmental Science found that children's attention skills are not yet adult-like until the early teens. Children aged 6-10 struggled to detect changes in their environment, revealing a fundamental difference in their perceptual abilities compared to adults.

Purdue research helps advance new rocket technology

Purdue engineers are developing advanced rocket technology that uses kerosene, eliminating the need for foam insulation. The research focuses on understanding combustion instability to create better computational models for designing rocket engines. This will enable more efficient and safer testing, reducing the risk of accidents and h...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Zoller wins Dirac Medal 2006

Peter Zoller, a renowned Austrian physicist, has been awarded the prestigious Dirac Medal 2006 for his groundbreaking research in atomic physics. He is being recognized for his innovative methods to use trapped ions for quantum computing and realizing the Bose-Hubbard model in ultracold gases.

Researchers find controls to gold nanocatalysis

Gold nanoclusters can be activated as catalysts with thin magnesium oxide films, even in defect-free conditions. The study reveals that the film's thickness influences the cluster's structure and dimensionality.

Study illuminates birth defects caused by copper deficiency

A new study found that copper deficiency in zebrafish leads to birth defects similar to those seen in children with Menkes disease. The researchers discovered a critical role for copper in notochord formation and development, suggesting suboptimal copper metabolism may contribute to structural birth defects.

Unique Huntington's study moves forward

A unique medical research study has begun evaluating 1,001 individuals at risk of developing Huntington's disease who do not know whether they carry the genetic defect. The PHAROS study aims to identify early signs of the disease and inform clinicians in designing better studies for new drugs.

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.

Digital cameras and Internet ease the pain of oral disease

A new screening program using digital cameras and the Internet effectively identifies early childhood dental caries (ECC) in 40% of toddlers. The program, developed by University of Rochester Medical Center researchers, uses photos taken by child care center health assistants to detect ECC before it becomes a painful problem.

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.