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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.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateJan 31, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 31, 2007

Less television and more gathering around the dinner table prevents

A new study by the University of Missouri-Columbia found that kids who watched more TV were at greatest risk of becoming overweight. Family meal times were also linked to healthier eating habits, suggesting other benefits for weight prevention.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·DateJan 31, 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.

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.

SourceCornell University·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNeuron·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJan 31, 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.

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.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalPerceptual and Motor Skills·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalInformation & Management·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceAnnals of Pharmacotherapy·JournalAnnals of Pharmacotherapy·DateJan 31, 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.

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.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalOncology Nursing Forum·DateJan 31, 2007
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.

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.

SourceTemple University·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Parasitology·DateJan 31, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 31, 2007

Spirituality plays role in breast cancer information processing for African-American women

A new study from the University of Missouri-Columbia reveals that spirituality positively affects African-American women's willingness to talk about breast cancer and engage in preventative measures. For Caucasian women, spiritual locus of control plays no significant role in paying attention to breast cancer information.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalIntegrative Medicine Insights·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 31, 2007
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.

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.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNeuron·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 31, 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.

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.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 31, 2007

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.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 30, 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.

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...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 30, 2007

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.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 30, 2007

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity Hospitals of Cleveland·DateJan 30, 2007

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.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateJan 30, 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.

MR angiography highly accurate in detecting blocked arteries

A novel MR angiography technique highly accurately identifies blockages in brain-supplying arteries and produces superior results compared to digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and multidetector computed tomography (CT) angiography.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJan 30, 2007

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.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateJan 30, 2007

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.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJan 30, 2007

'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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalApplied Optics·DateJan 30, 2007

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 30, 2007
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJan 30, 2007

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.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 30, 2007

Men warned of osteoporosis problems by McMaster researcher

A McMaster University researcher is warning men about osteoporosis, a bone-wasting disease that can severely affect them. One in eight men over 50 years old has osteoporosis, with higher risk groups identified.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 30, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 30, 2007