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Science News Archive 2007 - Page 158


Page 158 of 203

Overfishing large sharks impacts entire marine ecosystem, shrinks shellfish supply

A study found that overfishing large sharks leads to an explosion of their ray and skate prey species, which in turn devastates scallop populations. The decline of great sharks has triggered cascading effects throughout coastal food webs, impacting local communities that depend on healthy fisheries.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2007

LCT reports major step forward for islet transplantation in diabetes patient

LCT reports a major breakthrough in islet transplantation, with a human patient showing evidence of live porcine islet cells and insulin production ten years after the transplant. The study demonstrates the long-term safety and viability of LCT's encapsulated porcine islets without immunosuppression.

SourceKureczka/Martin Associates·JournalXenotransplantation·DateMar 29, 2007

Biologists call for better choice of model organisms in 'evo-devo'

Evo-devo researchers are urging scientists to select new model organisms based on their ability to shed light on specific evolutionary themes, rather than just phylogenetic position. The current choice of model organisms has been criticized for being too narrow and not representative of the diversity of life on Earth.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Reviews Genetics·DateMar 29, 2007

The impossible siblings

Astronomers have described the double asteroid Antiope in unprecedented detail, revealing its unique orbit and shape. The asteroid consists of two rubble-pile chunks of material, tidally locked and rotating around each other at the same speed as they orbit.

SourceESO·JournalIcarus·DateMar 29, 2007
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.

New chemistry approach promises less expensive drugs

A team of Princeton University chemists has discovered a new method to synthesize molecules without toxic catalysts, reducing the risk of hazardous barriers in drug development. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for working with ketones and aldehydes, potentially leading to more efficient synthesis of beneficial enantiomers.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2007

All roads lead to GUN1

Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that GUN1, a nuclear-encoded protein, plays a crucial role in transmitting distress signals from damaged chloroplasts to the nucleus, triggering a shutdown of photosynthetic genes. This finding sheds light on the complex communication between organelles and the nucleus.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2007
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.

Lack of care for older breast cancer patients

Researchers at the University of Manchester found that older women with breast cancer receive lower levels of care compared to younger women. This includes reduced likelihoods of needle biopsy, surgery, and radiotherapy, which can lead to higher local recurrence rates and mortality.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateMar 29, 2007

UCSD researchers identify critical receptor in liver regeneration

Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine discovered a cellular receptor involved in triggering cell death is also necessary for tissue repair and regeneration after liver injury. p75 neurotrophin receptor promotes the initial activation of hepatic stellate cells to stimulate new hepatic cell proliferation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2007

1 out of every 3 arthritis sufferers is affected in ability to work

A new study estimates that 6.9 million US adults have arthritis-attributable work limitation (AAWL), with 1 in 20 working age adults reporting AAWL, and 1 in 3 among those with arthritis. Adults with AAWL have poor physical health and function, including high body mass index, joint pain, and frequent doctor's office visits.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateMar 29, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cool findings -- Nanotubes could improve thermal management in electronics

Researchers have developed a simple and scalable assembly to integrate carbon nanotube structures on silicon chips, improving thermal management without increasing device weight. The cooling performance is comparable to that of copper, a significant advantage in miniaturized electronics.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 29, 2007

'Cold fusion' rebirth? Symposium explores low energy nuclear reactions

A symposium explores the evolution of low energy nuclear reactions, with researchers presenting findings that suggest these phenomena have evolved and are supported by repeatable experimental data. Evidence includes excess heat generation, documented nuclear reaction products, and detection of high-energy atomic particles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 29, 2007

Should single parents stay that way?

New research from Johns Hopkins University suggests that children who experience frequent transitions in their living situation are more likely to act out and have behavioral problems. The study found a persistent association between family instability and white children's behavior problems, but no such link for black children.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateMar 29, 2007

Fish oil helps statins reduce coronary events in Japanese patients

A recent study published in The Lancet found that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation reduced major coronary events by 19% in Japanese hypercholesterolaemic patients taking statins. This significant reduction also translated to a lower incidence of non-fatal myocardial infarction, unstable angina, and coronary revascularisation.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 29, 2007

MIT's ocean model captures diversity of underwater forests

A new ocean model at MIT captures the diversity of underwater forests, simulating the growth and population patterns of microscopic plants that produce half the oxygen we breathe. The model's approach reflects natural selection, allowing for a more accurate representation of real-world ecosystems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2007
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.

Researcher examines polymers created with poultry feathers

Justin Barone's research focuses on creating biodegradable plastics from agricultural byproducts like poultry feathers. He has developed polymers with improved strength, water resistance, and longevity by modifying keratin amino acid structures and using natural additives.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateMar 29, 2007

Elementary school classrooms get low rating on high-quality instruction

A study by the University of Virginia found that only a small percentage of elementary school classrooms provide high-quality instruction, leading to mediocre student outcomes. High-quality teaching involves active learning environments, teacher-student interaction, and emotional support, but is often lacking in US schools.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2007

A new, nanoporous ceramic filter offers hope to kidney-dialysis patients

A new, nanoporous ceramic filter developed by Lehigh University engineers could make dialysis sessions more efficient and shorter. The filter promises to double the amount of toxins removed during dialysis and increase glomular filtration rate (GFR), leading to improved mortality rates and quality of life for patients.

SourceLehigh University·DateMar 29, 2007
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.

Repeated long haul flights cause problems for air crew

Air crew who work repeated long haul routes are at risk of menstrual cycle problems, transient psychotic disorders, and major affective disorders due to the effects of jet lag. The symptoms can last for several days and include disrupted sleep patterns, mood changes, and gastrointestinal difficulties.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 29, 2007

Gladstone scientists identify critical gene factor in heart development

Researchers at Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease identified a critical genetic factor, microRNA miR-1-2, that regulates heart form and function. The study found that deletion of this microRNA causes defects in heart growth, function, and electrical conduction, potentially leading to new treatments for cardiovascular diseases.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateMar 29, 2007

HIV study prompts call for revision of breastfeeding guidelines

A study published in The Lancet found that exclusive breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child under six months. Infants who received formula milk or solids were nearly twice as likely to be infected, highlighting the importance of breast milk protection.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 29, 2007

Selling customers the short end of the stick

Excluding consumers from promotions can actually increase their interest in a product, as they perceive others as more savvy buyers. In experiments conducted by Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, researchers found that naive consumers are attracted to products with freebies not available to them, leading them to believe that e...

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateMar 29, 2007
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Miniature chain-mail fabric holds promise for smart textiles

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a flexible, metallic fabric composed of small rings and links. The fabric's unique properties make it suitable for developing smart fabrics and wearable electronic devices. Funding from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency supported this groundbreaking research.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists identify a candidate gene for osteoporosis

Researchers identified a candidate gene called DARC that may underlie differences in bone density between African-Americans and Caucasians. The study found that the DARC gene negatively regulates bone density in mice, and inhibiting its function could lead to therapies for osteoporosis.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists find that lightning is good indicator of volcanic activity

Researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks have discovered a correlation between lightning and volcanic eruptions. The study, published in Science journal, used electromagnetic lightning detectors to capture electrical activity during Mount Augustine's 2006 eruption, providing new insights into volcanic behavior.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScience·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists derive bottom-up air-sea momentum transfer under major hurricane

Researchers directly derived air-sea momentum exchange from ocean current observations under Hurricane Ivan, confirming the trend that momentum transfer decreases at high wind speeds. The findings improve storm surge modeling and have significant implications for ocean circulation and numerical model accuracy.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

Nutrients might prevent hearing loss, new animal study suggests

Researchers found that a combination of vitamins A, C, and E and magnesium effectively prevented permanent noise-induced hearing loss in guinea pigs. The study's lead author suggests that similar nutritional bars could provide adequate daily protection for people exposed to loud noises, such as soldiers or concertgoers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

New asthma inhaler propellant effective, but costlier

A new asthma inhaler propellant is safe and effective, but its higher cost will significantly impact consumers and healthcare systems. The switch from chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) to hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellant may lead to increased costs for patients with prescription benefit plans, as well as co-pays.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Impact of exercise on body fat is different for boys and girls

A study of 224 children aged 7-10 found exercise had a significant impact on body fat for boys and girls, but in different ways. Boys were more physically fit, with increased hard exercise linked to reduced weight, while girls benefited from moderate exercise.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New research shows why too much memory may be a bad thing

A new study from Columbia University Medical Center suggests that too much memory can be detrimental to cognitive function. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that suppressing neurogenesis in the hippocampus improves working memory. This implies that a balance between memory growth and...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2007

Electronics engineer predicts fantastic plastic future

A University of Manchester engineer has pioneered a way to make single-layered planar plastic transistors and diodes using fast and simple printing techniques. This could lead to the production of information displays that can be rolled up, intelligent tickets for public transport systems, and electronic stamps for letters and packages.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMar 28, 2007

No need to thank dinosaur-killing asteroid for mammalian success

A comprehensive tree of mammalian evolution puts major diversifications well after dinosaur die-off, casting doubt on their impact. The team constructed a complete evolutionary tree using molecular data and fossil evidence, finding that diversification didn't take off until the Eocene epoch, about 56 to 34 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists unlock physical, chemical secrets of plutonium

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a new theory that explains the physical and chemical properties of plutonium, which can help create safer and more versatile nuclear materials. The study finds that valence electrons in solid plutonium metal fluctuate among different orbitals on a short time scale.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

Arthritis pain, the brain and the role of emotions

A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found that arthritis pain is processed in brain areas associated with emotions and fear. The medial pain system, including the cingulate cortex and amygdala, was activated during arthritic pain, suggesting a stronger emotional impact than experimental pain.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

Leader of the pack: Dog groomer turned UH pharmacy professor honored

Lynn Simpson, a clinical associate professor at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy, has received the American Pharmacists Association-Academy of Student Pharmacists' Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award. She was recognized for her spirit and impact on students, who have held regional or national leadership posts in APhA-ASP.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 28, 2007

UAF permafrost scientist receives $1.8M in grants

Romanovsky will establish a network of permafrost observatories in North America and Russia to measure temperatures and monitor permafrost changes. The project aims to create a standardized system for monitoring permafrost and measuring temperatures, similar to Alaska's existing data set.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists reveal structure of gateways to gene control

Researchers have mapped nucleosome structures on a genome-wide scale, revealing an intimate relationship between DNA sequences and gene regulation. The study pinpointed critical gateways for transcription, showing how nucleosomes control gene function across the entire genome.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

The delayed rise of present-day mammals

A new study has found that the ancestors of modern mammals did not quickly evolve and spread to fill empty niches following the mass extinctions of dinosaurs. Instead, diversification rates dropped and stayed low for 40 million years, with modern mammal orders emerging around 50-55 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

Cryoablation -- A new treatment option for some kidney tumor patients

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found that cryoablation is an effective treatment option for patients who are not good candidates for surgery due to size or location of the tumor. The procedure involves freezing the tumor with argon gas, resulting in short-term success in over 90% of selected patients.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalRadiology·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

Smokers make poorer workers

A study of 5,500 women found that smokers had shorter careers, lower pay, and more disciplinary actions than non-smokers. Smokers were also more likely to be discharged for medical or behavioral reasons.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalTobacco Control·DateMar 28, 2007

Unique partnership produces life-critical 3D structures

The Structural Genomics Consortium has determined the 3D structure of PARP3, a protein of significant relevance to diseases such as cancer, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. The available data can accelerate early-phase drug development projects and contribute to a better understanding of disease mechanisms.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateMar 28, 2007

Automated analyzer for complex nuclear waste provides rapid results

The device developed by PNNL scientists provides a fully automated prototype process monitor with microwave-assisted sample pretreatment and flexible chemical separations capabilities. It enables fast analysis of alpha- and beta-emitting radionuclides in liquid solutions, providing near real-time feedback on process performance.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMar 28, 2007

Did dust bust the 2006 hurricane season forecasts?

A NASA study suggests that tiny dust particles may have contributed to the relatively calm 2006 Atlantic hurricane season by cooling ocean waters. The research found that Saharan dust concentrations played a major role in shaping the season, potentially even initiating pre-existing conditions due to El Niño.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 28, 2007

Chromosomal microarray analysis proves accurate

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that chromosomal microarray analysis is remarkably sensitive in detecting abnormalities in individual chromosomes, identifying the source of problems in many cases. The technique improved detection rates by up to 12% compared to traditional methods.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

Brain tissue reveals possible genetic trigger for schizophrenia

A study led by Dr. Diana Perkins identified lower levels of microRNAs in the brains of adults with schizophrenia compared to healthy individuals. The research suggests that altered expression of microRNAs may be involved in the development of schizophrenia, potentially related to disordered synaptic plasticity.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalGenome Biology·DateMar 28, 2007

Widely used iron nanoparticles exhibit toxic effects on neuronal cells

Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that iron oxide nanoparticles can be toxic to nerve cells and interfere with their signal-transmitting extensions. The nanoparticles were initially investigated as a possible way to manipulate nerve cells remotely with magnetic force.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 28, 2007

Clues to gene expression in cystic fibrosis will guide research

A small percentage of CF patients with a rare genetic stop mutation responded positively to gentamicin treatment, suggesting potential targeted treatments for the disease. Gentamicin reversed stop codons and restored the CFTR protein, improving respiration in affected patients.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

Gene mutations linked to hereditary lung disease

Scientists at Johns Hopkins have identified genetic culprits triggering a fatal lung disease. Mutations in telomerase genes were found in 8% of patients with inherited idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), leading to short telomeres and cell death.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Greenhouse gas effect consistent over 420 million years

Researchers at Yale and Wesleyan Universities have found that the sensitivity of Earth's climate to changes in carbon dioxide has been consistent for 420 million years. The study confirms that each doubling of atmospheric CO2 translates to an average global temperature increase of about 3° Celsius.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

MIT reveals the tangle under turbulence

The MIT team has visualized a complex network of two types of curves formed by two distinct groups of particles. The first type of curve attracts other fluid particles, while the second type repels them. This discovery may lead to better understanding of turbulent mixing and aid in designing more efficient vehicles.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 28, 2007
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.