Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive January 2007


Page 1 of 13

Theory stretches the limits of composite materials

A University of Wisconsin-Madison scientist has proven that composite materials can be stable even if one component is unstable, allowing for a wider range of properties and improved overall performance. This breakthrough could lead to materials with virtually limitless performance capabilities.

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.

Rats on a road trip reveal pollution-heart disease risk

A study published in Inhalation Toxicology found that rats exposed to highway pollution showed a significant drop in heart rate and disruption of the autonomic nervous system. This discovery highlights the potential risks of air pollution on cardiovascular health, particularly for individuals with pre-existing heart disease.

Passive smoke in workplace increases lung cancer risk

A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health confirms the association between passive smoke in the workplace and an increased risk of lung cancer. Researchers found a 24% increase in lung cancer risk among people exposed to passive smoke, with highly exposed workers facing a 100% increased risk.

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.

Barrow receives a $105,600 grant to study neurofibromatosis

Researchers at Barrow will investigate gene defects in NF1 affecting nerve cell function and molecule movement. The grant aims to identify new targets for treating Neurofibromatosis 1, a genetic disorder causing tumors and developmental problems.

Solanacae Genome Project gets $1.8 million NSF grant

The Cornell-led International Tomato Sequencing Project will sequence the tomato genome and create a comprehensive database of genomic sequences, enabling researchers to study crop development and domestication. The project, funded by $1.8 million from the NSF, aims to tie together maps and genomes of all plants in the Solanaceae family.

Can antioxidants protect scuba divers?

A new study suggests that pre-dive intake of antioxidants Vitamin C and E can reduce alterations in cardiovascular function. This intervention showed a positive effect on vascular endothelial function, while other cardiac changes were unaffected.

How does your brain tell time?

Researchers at UCLA suggest that the brain uses physical changes to cells to monitor time, rather than a clock-like mechanism. The team's computer model showed that the brain-cell network can encode time through the context of preceding events, which was tested in a study with research volunteers.

Prion disease treatable if caught early

Researchers found that early brain degeneration can be reversed if prions are depleted in neurons, leading to improved cognitive function and reversal of neurological pathology. This discovery opens new avenues for targeting neuronal prion protein as a therapeutic approach and may enable early intervention in human prion disease.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Hungry for a Super Bowl victory?

Researchers found that seeing leftover chicken bones on plates led to a 43% increase in eating, while those who ate off clean plates consumed less. The study suggests serving yourself onto a plate and stopping when it's empty can help prevent overeating at Super Bowl parties.

Inexpensive fun fuels text messaging growth

Young adults (19-25) prefer text messaging for its instant social interaction, a perceived economical cost, and fun technology. They send an average of 50 messages per month and spend $46 US per month on mobile phone services.

Effectiveness of over-the-counter decongestant questioned in new study

A new study published in The Annals of Pharmacotherapy found that phenylephrine may not be as effective as previously thought, with some studies showing no significant benefit. The study's findings suggest that higher doses of the drug could increase the risk of adverse effects, and the FDA is urged to require additional research.

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.

Timing is everything

Researchers found that mice deficient for SHP exhibited an earlier onset of fertility due to reduced repression on testosterone production and germ cell differentiation. This discovery may lead to exploration of SHP in human subjects with fertility issues.

Take fatigue seriously, says University of Alberta researcher

Researchers investigate fatigue in various populations, finding distinct definitions for tiredness, fatigue, and exhaustion. The study aims to prevent progression from tiredness to exhaustion, emphasizing the importance of recognizing changes consistent with fatigue and exhaustion.

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 compound shows promise in halting HIV spread

A new compound, 2-5AN6B, has shown significant promise in inhibiting HIV replication in white blood cells from HIV-infected patients. The compound works by a different mechanism than current drugs, reducing the risk of mutation and improving treatment effectiveness.

Leeches ferry infection among newts

Researchers found evidence of leech-borne transmission of a fungus-like organism infecting newts' muscles, which may affect their ability to reproduce. The infection is not fatal but can impact newt populations. Human activities, such as fertilizer use in wetlands, could lead to increased leech abundance and disease spread.

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.

Phase III trials of cellulose sulfate microbicide for HIV prevention closed

A Phase III trial of cellulose sulfate, a topical microbicide gel, has been halted due to preliminary results indicating an increased risk of HIV infection in women. The Independent Data Monitoring Committee will conduct a review of the data to better understand the findings and determine implications for future research.

Women in polluted areas at higher risk of cardiovascular disease

A University of Washington study found that women living in areas with higher levels of air pollution have a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease and dying from cardiovascular causes. Fine particulate matter, tiny airborne particles, were linked to a significant increase in cardiovascular disease events.

Novel Ames Lab composite may replace depleted uranium

Researchers at Ames Laboratory have developed a novel composite material that combines tungsten and metallic glass to create an armor-piercing projectile. The nanostructured material exhibits self-sharpening behavior, making it a potential replacement for depleted uranium in kinetic energy penetrators.

Mechanism of hallucinogens' effects discovered

Researchers identify neural and signaling mechanisms responsible for hallucinogen effects by studying the activation of 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. The findings may advance understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders treated with existing pharmacological treatments.

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.

Assessing the cost of juvenile arthritis

A study found that children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis had significant direct medical costs, including $1,686 per year. The study also highlighted the importance of long-term medical and social costs in resource allocation.

MIT develops nanoparticles to battle cancer

Researchers at MIT have created nanoparticles that mimic blood platelets to target cancer tumors. These particles can be used for non-invasive imaging of fast-growing cancer hot spots in tumors, as well as delivering chemotherapy directly into the tumor.

Breakthrough in nanodevice synthesis revolutionizes biological sensors

Researchers at Yale University have developed a novel approach to synthesizing nanowires, allowing them to integrate with microelectronic systems and act as highly sensitive biomolecule detectors. This breakthrough has profound implications for the application of nanoscience technologies and future diagnostics.

Decoy pill saves brain cells

Scientists have developed a potential neuroprotective treatment using a decoy peptide that tricks the toxic enzyme calpain, preventing over-excited receptors in the brain from causing cell death. The technique may lead to new drugs for stroke and Alzheimer's patients.

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.

Endangered shortnose sturgeon saved in Hudson River

The US shortnose sturgeon population has increased by over 400 percent in the Hudson River since the 1970s, marking a rare recovery of an endangered species. The study suggests that protection and conservation efforts can lead to successful recoveries, even in areas with high human activity.

Exercise has no effect on risk of knee osteoarthritis

A recent study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that exercise neither protects against nor increases the risk of knee OA in middle-aged and older adults. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,200 subjects, suggests that physical activity can be done safely without concerns about developing OA.

Lavender and tea tree oils may cause breast growth in boys

Researchers found an association between the use of products containing lavender oil and/or tea tree oil and prepubertal gynecomastia in young males. Laboratory studies confirmed that these oils can mimic estrogen effects and inhibit androgen effects, leading to breast tissue growth.

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.

The problem with treating spondylarthritis with anti-TNF strategies

Researchers found that etanercept, a TNF inhibitor, had no impact on new cartilage or bone formation in mice with spontaneous arthritis. The study suggests that joint fusion and joint inflammation are separate processes, which should be considered as distinct therapeutic targets.

NASA probes the sources of the world's tiny pollutants

A recent study by NASA tracked aerosol sources and their impact on climate, finding that black carbon from Southeast Asian residential sources contributes significantly to Arctic warming. The researchers also discovered that biomass-burning aerosols produce cooling effects in the atmosphere, which partially offset greenhouse gas emissi...

U-M, Harvard team propose way to make the most of health dollars

A team of University of Michigan and Harvard researchers suggests abandoning the one-size-fits-all approach to health insurance by tailoring plans to individuals' specific medical needs. This value-based insurance design (VBID) approach aims to encourage patients to use evidence-based treatments, reducing healthcare costs in the long run.

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.

Low-pathogenic forms of bird flu do cause illness among birds

Researchers found that low-pathogenic avian influenza viruses can cause mild illness in migratory swans, slowing down their migration and feeding patterns. This discovery highlights the impact of these viruses on wild birds and could affect the rate of spread of avian influenza.

University Hospitals Case Medical Center researcher awarded

Melvin Berger, a University Hospitals researcher, received a $250,000 grant to study the effectiveness of an under-the-skin pump versus an intravenous drip for treating patients with neurological diseases. The goal is to reduce side effects and increase patient treatment options.

Too much expected of microfinancing

Research in Uganda found that microfinancing improved women's positions within families and communities, but not their independence. The benefit of microfinancing lies in strengthening self-esteem and enabling women to take more responsibility and have a higher status within marriages and the community.

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.

Liquid crystals stabilized

New columnar discotic liquid crystals stabilized by hydrogen bonds exhibit highly stable mesophases and ease of processing, making them suitable for applications such as solar cells. The research demonstrates a synergy between bonding interactions to achieve well-ordered aggregates.

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.

MIT: Cancer therapy based on missile detection outlined in new book

A breast cancer treatment based on MIT research is documented in a new book, including promising results from the latest clinical trials of the therapy. The technique uses microwaves to heat-and-kill-cells containing high amounts of water and ions, showing minimal side effects.

'Origami lens' slims high resolution cameras

Researchers at UC San Diego have created an 'origami lens' that folds the telephoto lens, enabling the creation of ultrathin, high-resolution miniature cameras. This technology addresses performance issues in cell phone cameras and may be used for unmanned surveillance aircraft, infrared night vision, and other applications.

James Webb Space Telescope's 'spine' passes health tests

The James Webb Space Telescope's backplane has passed health tests, withstanding freezing temperatures and operating accurately. The successful test ensures the telescope can handle its space trip and work in space, paving the way for future scientific discoveries.

Weight-loss supplement shows good and bad traits

Researchers studying mice and rats found that CLA supplementation led to rapid weight loss in mice but excessive liver fat accumulation, a common side effect of rapid weight loss. In contrast, rats on a CLA-supplemented diet showed decreased insulin resistance despite not losing weight.

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.

Morals do not conquer all in decision making

Previous studies suggested that protected values lead to quantity insensitivity, but new findings reveal a different story. Morally-motivated decision makers may actually be more sensitive to consequences when considering net benefits.

Molecular motors and brakes work together in cells

A study published in Cell reveals that microtubules rely on a balance between molecular motors and brakes to form stable structures. This cooperation enables the creation of microtubule arrays with defined lengths, which is crucial for basic cellular functions such as cell division and transport.