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Science News Archive 2007


Page 47 of 203

Cigarette smoking may accelerate disability in those with MS

Researchers have discovered that cigarette smoking increases brain tissue shrinkage and disease severity in multiple sclerosis patients. The study used MRI scans to compare smokers and nonsmokers with MS, finding significant differences in disability scores and brain volume.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nanoengineers mine tiny diamonds for drug delivery

Researchers have developed nanodiamond clusters that efficiently carry and release chemotherapy drugs, sparing healthy cells from toxicity. The material's stability, safety, and high surface area make it a promising alternative to current drug delivery agents.

In human grid, we're the cogs

Researchers from UC San Diego propose a grid system that utilizes human computation to label images and perform tasks for the benefit of others. The 'Soylent Grid' uses CAPTCHAs to engage humans in the loop, allowing for efficient data labeling and various applications such as assistive technology for visually impaired individuals.

Study finds that people are programmed to love chocolate

Researchers found that people programmed to love chocolate have a distinct metabolic profile, including low LDL-cholesterol and elevated albumin levels. The study's findings could lead to personalized diets tailored to an individual's metabolic type.

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.

Portal vein thrombosis is common in extraportal vein obstruction

Patients with non-cirrhotic and nontumoral extrahepatic portal vein obstruction often present with well-tolerated bleeding. Cirrhosis- and tumor-related portal vein thrombosis generally carries a grim prognosis. A large sample size study found that hypercoagulable states are less common in this population.

COPD rates, higher than expected in China, will continue to grow

A large-scale study in China reveals that COPD prevalence is significantly higher than previously thought, affecting over 8% of the population over 40. The risk factors identified include smoking, particularly among women, and exposure to biomass fuels, highlighting a need for preventative measures and improved diagnosis.

Heaps of climate gas

A study found that cows produce more methane in soil when pastured on winter grasslands, rather than in cowsheds. This process is triggered by the amount and quality of organic material from their excrement and the compaction of the soil by their weight.

NJIT to receive $150,000 gift from PSEG

PSEG has donated $150,000 to NJIT's Albert Dorman Honors College to establish a scholarship for freshmen. The scholarship will prioritize students pursuing engineering or STEM fields, promoting skilled workers for companies like PSEG.

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.

'Electromagnetic wormhole' possible with invisibility technology

A team of mathematicians has discovered a way to generate an electromagnetic wormhole using invisibility cloaking technology, allowing for objects to be transported through a tunnel in space. The technology could have potential applications in fields such as endoscopic surgeries and 3D television displays.

Study examines parent-child interactions in at-risk families

A five-year study will investigate patterns of interaction between parents and preschool children to better understand the effects of child maltreatment. The research seeks to identify relationship patterns underlying the severity and type of maltreatment, aiming to inform the development of more effective family therapies.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Statins reduce loss of function, keeping old lungs young - even in smokers

A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that statins reduce the annual loss of lung function in elderly individuals, including those who smoke. The researchers suggest that statins' ability to reduce inflammation and smoking-induced injury in the lungs may be responsible for this effect.

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.

Even occasional use of spray cleaners may cause asthma in adults

Researchers found that frequent use of household cleaning sprays can raise asthma risk in nonprofessional users, increasing the risk by 30-50% compared to those who rarely or never use such products. Cleaning sprays, especially air fresheners and glass cleaners, had a particularly strong effect.

First high-res 3D structures of mammalian HSP90 protein solved

Researchers have solved the first high-resolution structure of the mammalian HSP90 protein, GRP94, which is implicated in immune diseases such as sepsis, AIDS, and certain cancers. This breakthrough provides new insights into the function and activity patterns of this protein, paving the way for the design of targeted therapies.

Innovative 3D-imaging technique captures brain damage linked to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers used a novel 3D mapping technique to analyze MRI data from Alzheimer's patients and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study found progressive brain atrophy in both groups, but MCI patients showed more cortical damage characteristic of Alzheimer's. This innovative method outperforms existing 3D imaging techniques.

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.

Crucial moment to redress appalling neglect of maternal mortality

The Lancet Editorial highlights the alarming persistence of maternal mortality despite two decades of global efforts to reduce its burden. The journal urges a renewed focus on women's rights and healthcare, emphasizing that there is both knowledge and resources available to address the issue.

Human Factors researchers improve performance with robotic systems on the ISS

Human factors researchers developed a software system that dramatically improves astronauts' ability to perform remote tasks under adverse conditions on the International Space Station. The system uses augmented reality techniques to guide operators during robotic installation tasks, resulting in improved accuracy and efficiency.

Sol-gel inks produce complex shapes with nanoscale features

Researchers have developed new sol-gel inks that can be printed into three-dimensional structures of metal oxides with nanoscale features. These inks enable the direct patterning of functional oxides at the nanoscale, opening up new avenues for functional devices.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A tiny pinch from a 'z-ring' helps bacteria cells divide

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a mathematical tool that computed the mechanical force exerted by the Z-ring when it helps bacteria cells split. The calculation revealed a surprisingly small force of 8 piconewtons, which could aid scientists in developing new antibiotics and understanding cell division.

Anticlotting drug found to be safe in sickle cell patients

A small study found that eptifibatide, an intravenous blood thinner, appears to be well-tolerated in sickle cell patients and shows potential benefits in reducing inflammation. The results suggest that the drug may have anti-inflammatory effects without causing harm to these patients.

Patients can't recall their medications to tell doctors

A Northwestern University study found nearly 50% of patients taking antihypertensive drugs can't accurately name a single medication, highlighting the need for improved medication reconciliation. Patients with low health literacy were more likely to be prescribed multiple medications and have higher blood pressure.

UD plant biologists uncover top wetland plant's hidden weapon

Scientists have identified the toxin produced by Phragmites australis as 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid, which causes structural protein disintegration in neighboring plant roots, leading to their death. The exotic strain releases higher concentrations of the toxin than native strains, contributing to its invasive success.

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.

Modeling pathogen responses

A new study by David Heckerman and colleagues developed a statistical framework to model HLA-dependent T cell response data. The approach identified 12 correct predictions out of 16, providing significant implications for understanding and developing an HIV vaccine.

Science survey ranks top biopharma employers

The Science survey ranks top biopharma employers based on driving characteristics, with Boehringer Ingelheim leading the list. Genentech comes in second, followed by Amgen. The rankings are determined by an independent research firm commissioned by AAAS.

Green algae -- the nexus of plant/animal ancestry

A study on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a tiny green alga, has found that it shares genes with both plants and animals, including humans. The research provides new insights into photosynthesis, flagellar movement, and human diseases related to ciliary dysfunction.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

JCI table of contents: Oct. 11, 2007

New research on glutaric acidemia type I reveals that young mice are more susceptible to brain damage due to lysine uptake, which can be mitigated with a novel treatment strategy. Mast cells play a role in abdominal aortic aneurysm development, and blocking LAG-3 might enhance cancer vaccine effectiveness.

Enzyme promotes fat formation

A recent study found that TPPII stimulates the formation of fat cells in worms and mammalian cells, leading to decreased fat stores. Mice with lower levels of TPPII were thinner than their wild-type littermates despite comparable food intake.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

MIT uncovers key blood protein

Scientists at MIT have identified a critical blood protein called HRI that plays a pivotal role in the body's iron recycling process. This discovery holds promise for developing new treatments for conditions like beta-thalassemia and erythropoietic protoporphyria.

Rejection sets off alarms for folks with low self-esteem

A new study from UC Berkeley found that people with low self-esteem respond more strongly to rejection themes, but those with better attention control skills can tone down their reactions. Researchers suggest training the mind to focus and behavioral therapy may help improve attention control and reduce negative effects of rejection.

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.

Breast cancer awareness calls for cardiovascular awareness

Women who overcome breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease due to therapies that damage the heart and blood vessels. Exercise is crucial in maintaining heart health during treatment, and early evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors can help prevent complications.

Fantastic plastic could cut CO2 emissions and purify water

A new plastic membrane with hourglass-shaped pores can separate carbon dioxide from methane at a faster rate than conventional membranes. This technology has potential to improve energy efficiency of water purification and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in natural gas processing.

1st successful treatment for chronic TBI

A new study by Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center researchers found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy improved spatial learning and memory in a model of chronic traumatic brain injury. The therapy increased vascular density in the brain and was associated with an improvement in cognitive function.

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.

Taking the stress out of choosing the right stress test

Researchers have reviewed literature on stress tests to determine the most effective strategies for physicians. The study highlights the importance of choosing the right stress test to accurately detect coronary artery disease, emphasizing the role of pharmacologic agents and exercise EKGs in maximizing sensitivity and specificity.

Bottomless bowls are an Ig Nobel winner

Brian Wansink's research on bottomless bowls of creamy tomato soup found that people eating from soup bowls with hidden refills ate 73% more soup than those in normal bowls, without feeling fuller. The study suggests that cues around us influence not only what we eat but also how much and when we feel full

The benefits of 80 million years without sex

Researchers find that bdelloid rotifers, an asexual organism, have evolved different gene functions to protect themselves during dehydration. This discovery provides insight into the benefits of asexuality and challenges the assumption that sexual reproduction is always necessary for survival.

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.

New insight into childhood metabolic disease

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the mechanisms underlying injury and age-dependent susceptibility to glutaric acidemia type I. By using a mouse model of the disease, scientists discovered that limiting lysine uptake can substantially decrease brain damage caused by exposure to the amino acid.

New quantum dot transistor counts individual photons

The NIST device can accurately count 1, 2 or 3 photons at least 83 percent of the time, a capability essential for advanced precision optical metrology. The detector has an internal quantum efficiency of 68 ± 18 percent and potential to operate at higher temperatures than other single-photon detectors.