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Science News Archive 2008 - Page 101


Page 101 of 240

Scientists a step closer to producing fuel from bacteria

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have created a computer model that maps the metabolism of Nostoc bacteria, revealing a previously unknown link between energy production and nitrogen fixation. This breakthrough could lead to improved hydrogen production and further investigation into synthetic biology.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalBioinformatics·DateAug 6, 2008

Skipping atomic-scale stones to study some chemistry basics

Researchers at NIST study gas-liquid interactions using powerful lasers, observing the rotational dynamics of a molecule bouncing off a liquid surface. They found molecules tend to tumble forward with a 'top spin' motion.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2008

Post-partum suicide attempt risks studied

Researchers found that women with a history of psychiatric disorders or substance abuse were more likely to attempt suicide postpartum. The study suggests screening for past diagnoses during prenatal care may identify high-risk women.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 6, 2008
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.

Hot peppers really do bring the heat

Capsaicin from hot peppers directly induces thermogenesis by altering muscle protein SERCA, leading to increased heat production. This process could be used to design more potent compounds for treating hypothermia.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 6, 2008

The shape of things to come

Researchers have developed a sensor array that can conform to irregular surfaces, enabling the creation of an eye-shaped camera with improved image quality. The technology has promise for applications such as advanced health monitors and prosthetic devices.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·DateAug 6, 2008

Improved reaction data heat up the biofuels harvest

Researchers at NIST have detailed fundamental processes involved in extracting sugars from biomass, a crucial step in producing ethanol by fermentation. The study provides theoretical limits of reactions and energy needed to break down cellulose and hemicellulose, helping engineers design more efficient process designs.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics·DateAug 6, 2008

Caltech neurobiologists discover individuals who 'hear' movement

Researchers identify a type of synesthesia in which individuals hear sounds when they see things move or flash, suggesting an enhanced form of visual processing. The four synesthetes outperformed nonsynesthetes on a test involving rhythmic patterns of flashes and beats.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 6, 2008
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.

Water is 'designer fluid' that helps proteins change shape, scientists say

Researchers used terahertz absorption spectroscopy to study the motion of water molecules during protein folding. Water molecules change to a native-type arrangement much faster than the protein, helping establish its correct configuration. This 'designer fluid' plays a crucial role in life.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 6, 2008

Treatment outcomes highlight dangers of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis

A study of 174 tuberculosis patients found that extensively drug-resistant TB patients were almost eight times as likely to die as those with multi-drug resistant TB. The study emphasizes the critical importance of optimal management of multi-drug resistant cases to prevent progression to XDR-TB and associated poorer outcomes.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 6, 2008

Quantum chaos unveiled?

A University of Utah study demonstrates fundamental new property – chaotic behavior in a quantum system – in frozen xenon nuclei, challenging conventional understanding. The findings provide new insights into the relationship between chaos theory and quantum mechanics.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 6, 2008
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New JILA technique reveals hidden properties of ultracold atomic gases

Scientists at JILA have developed a powerful new technique to study ultracold atomic gases, revealing previously hidden properties. The technique, using photoemission spectroscopy, simultaneously probes energy and momentum, providing insights into the pairing of atoms.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature·DateAug 6, 2008

Study finds connections between genetics, brain activity and preference

Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital linked genetics to brain reward circuitry and preference, revealing a connection between gene variants and brain activity. The study used brain imaging, genetics, and experimental psychology techniques to identify a correlation between the CREB1 gene variant and brain structure activity.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 6, 2008

AGU journal highlights -- August 6, 2008

Researchers study drought patterns in northwestern Africa, finding a recent drought is consistent with climate model projections. Hail precipitation in China decreases by nearly half since the 1980s, likely due to rising freezing levels. New data reveals variable wind speeds on Venus, including strong vertical shear at low latitudes.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 6, 2008

Jeers of peers may affect adolescent adjustment

Research suggests that obese adolescents who experience peer victimization are more likely to struggle with depression and negative feelings about their physical appearance. Non-obese adolescents who face peer victimization also report decreased self-esteem and increased negative body image over time.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 6, 2008

Medicinal marijuana effective for neuropathic pain in HIV

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine conducted a double-blind clinical trial to assess the impact of smoked medical cannabis on neuropathic pain in HIV patients. The study showed that reported pain relief was greater with cannabis than with a placebo.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateAug 6, 2008
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.

Students with food allergies often not prepared

Despite having food allergies, many college students are not taking necessary precautions, such as carrying emergency medication and having a plan in place. Researchers found that only 50% of students with food allergies always avoid their allergenic foods, and 43% do not have an EpiPen on hand.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateAug 6, 2008

Researchers report periodontal disease independently predicts new onset diabetes

A Columbia University study found that periodontal disease can be an independent predictor of incident Type 2 diabetes. Over a 20-year follow-up, individuals with elevated levels of periodontal disease were nearly twice as likely to develop Type 2 diabetes compared to those without periodontal disease.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDiabetes Care·DateAug 6, 2008

Aphids are sentinels of climate change

Researchers found aphids are appearing significantly earlier in the year and in higher numbers due to mild winters. This leads to more aphids flying in spring and early summer when crops are vulnerable.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateAug 6, 2008

Yale researchers uncover West Nile's targets

A team of Yale researchers has identified 305 individual proteins that can alter viral infection, including those involved in West Nile and Dengue fever. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for a variety of viral infections.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateAug 6, 2008

Jupiter and Saturn full of liquid metal helium

Researchers at UC Berkeley and University College London discovered that metallic helium is produced under extreme conditions found at the centers of Jupiter and Saturn, mixing with metal hydrogen to form a liquid metal alloy. This finding challenges previous theories about the energy source powering these planets.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers unveil vital key to cancer

Scientists have uncovered the 3D structure of Mps1, a protein that regulates chromosome number during cell division and prevents cancer. The discovery will help design safer and more effective therapies.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 6, 2008

Black girls who abuse alcohol less likely to use condoms

A study by Emory University researchers found that black girls who abused alcohol had low condom usage rates, even after participating in HIV interventions. The study suggests that addressing alcohol use is crucial to developing effective HIV interventions for this demographic.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateAug 6, 2008

New technology could lead to camera based on human eye

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new camera technology that uses a curved surface to capture images, similar to the human eye. The technology, which has been published in Nature, has shown promising results in producing clearer and more detailed images than traditional cameras.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateAug 6, 2008

The Schiavo case

A study analyzing media coverage of the Schiavo case found that most articles contained medical inaccuracies and false hopes about her recovery. The researchers emphasize the importance of accurate information in end-of-life decision-making, which was challenged by relatives and public opinion during this high-profile controversy.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalNeurology·DateAug 6, 2008
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.

GIANT-Coli: A novel method to quicken discovery of gene function

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a novel method called GIANT-Coli to study genetic interactions in E. coli, allowing rapid and large-scale studies of the bacterium's genes. This method has great potential to quicken the discovery of new gene functions, with potential applications in medicine.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 6, 2008

Floss your teeth -- on the double!

A twin study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that flossing can decrease gum disease-causing bacteria. Regular flossing can help reduce the amount of periodontal disease-causing bacteria in the mouth, contributing to healthy teeth and gums.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateAug 6, 2008
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.

Gender and culturally tailored interventions help curb STDs in black girls

Researchers found that girls who participated in the HORIZONS intervention were less likely to contract a STD and more likely to consistently use condoms during sex. The study suggests that gender-tailored and culturally-congruent interventions can reduce bacterial STD infections and enhance HIV-preventive behaviors.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateAug 6, 2008

New step forward in search for solution to infection puzzle

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding how Staphylococcus aureus bacteria bind to human proteins fibronectin, shedding light on serious heart infections. The study could lead to the development of new treatments for rare but life-threatening conditions like infective endocarditis.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2008

I can, automatically, become just like you

Researchers found that excluding participants from a game led to automatic mimicry of another person's behaviors, influencing feelings of belonging. This phenomenon suggests that nonconscious mimicry is an automatic response to social exclusion, with implications for human behavior.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 6, 2008

Gastrointestinal bleeding after stroke may increase risk of death

A study found that people with gastrointestinal bleeding after a stroke are more likely to die or become severely disabled than those without GI bleeding. Gastrointestinal bleeding was associated with a higher risk of mortality and severe dependency, even after adjusting for other factors.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 6, 2008
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.

How chemo kills tumors: research to reduce side effects

University of Manchester researchers have taken a systematic approach to studying anti-mitotic drugs, revealing a profound variation in cell behavior among different tumors. The study aims to improve the effectiveness of these drugs while reducing side effects such as nerve damage.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 6, 2008
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.

Recipe for cell reprogramming adds protein

Researchers discover a drug-like molecule called Wnt that can substitute for the cancer-causing gene c-Myc to create embryonic-like stem cells. This breakthrough aims to develop safe and efficient methods for treating diseases such as Parkinson's disease and diabetes using induced pluripotent stem cells.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 6, 2008

Scripps research team unravels new cellular repair mechanism

The Scripps Research Institute team has identified a protein called Nrm1 that plays a crucial role in regulating the cell cycle. When DNA replication stalls, Nrm1's repression of certain genes is blocked, allowing those genes to be expressed again, which enables the production of proteins needed to correct the problem.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2008

Wildlife Conservation Society discovers 'Planet of the Apes'

The Wildlife Conservation Society has discovered a significant increase in western lowland gorillas, with a census showing over 125,000 individuals in the Republic of Congo. The census data revealed high densities of gorillas in some areas, indicating successful conservation efforts and a food-rich habitat.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·DateAug 5, 2008

Stent grafts: a better way to treat blunt trauma injuries

Endovascular repair, using stent grafts to fix blood vessel injuries, is shown to save more lives and decrease chance of paraplegia compared to open surgery. This minimally invasive technique reduces mortality rates by half and diminishes risk of paraplegia by 75 percent.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateAug 5, 2008
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.

Bacterial persistence in streams

A study by the University of Tennessee investigates the temporal patterns and statistical persistence of total coliform bacteria in a stream. The research found that short-term persistence is dominated by runoff events, while longer-term persistence is likely related to baseflow, or groundwater supply.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 5, 2008

Novel method to create personalized immunotherapy treatments

Researchers at the University of Montreal and Argos Therapeutics have developed a novel method to create personalized immunotherapy treatments for HIV. The treatment uses dendritic cell-based therapies that stimulate the expansion of HIV-specific T cells, which attack and kill infected cells.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateAug 5, 2008

Risky behaviors must change for HIV prevention to have any chance of success

To reduce HIV transmission, radical behavioral change is necessary, involving a range of strategies including increasing HIV knowledge, decreasing risky behaviors, and providing access to treatment. The authors emphasize the need for sustainable commitment and proper resources to implement these prevention strategies.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 5, 2008
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.

Structural factors -- an untapped, yet vital part of HIV prevention

Researchers argue that structural approaches can significantly reduce HIV risk and vulnerability, particularly in addressing gender inequality and economic dependence. Examples of successful initiatives include needle exchange programmes and empowering sex workers to take control of their own health.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 5, 2008

Scientists identify possible cause of endometriosis

Researchers at the University of Liverpool discovered that an enzyme called telomerase is released by cells in the inner lining of the womb during the menstrual cycle, contributing to endometriosis. The abnormal length of telomeres and expression of telomerase in endometrial cells may lead to severe pain and infertility.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateAug 5, 2008

Exposure to Agent Orange linked to prostate cancer in Vietnam veterans

Research shows Vietnam War veterans exposed to Agent Orange have increased risks of prostate cancer and aggressive forms of the disease compared to those not exposed. The study, conducted on over 13,000 men in their 60s, found twice as many exposed veterans developed prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCancer·DateAug 5, 2008

U of M study shows why treatment isn't effective for HIV

Researchers found that fibrosis occurs rapidly in the gut, limiting drug effectiveness and making it harder to restore immunity. Early treatment can preserve some elements of the immune system by protecting T-cells.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 5, 2008
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.

Study: Spices may protect against consequences of high blood sugar

A University of Georgia study reveals that common herbs and spices can inhibit tissue damage and inflammation caused by high blood sugar. The extracts of 24 herbs and spices were found to block the formation of AGE compounds, which contribute to aging and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Nutritional Medicine·DateAug 5, 2008

Spiders who eat together, stay together: UBC research

Social spiders have developed a unique foraging strategy that enables them to capture larger prey despite declining individual catch rates with colony size. This efficiency allows colonies to thrive in tropical areas but dwindle in higher elevations and latitudes.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2008
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.

Whom do we fear or trust?

Scientists have developed a computer program to analyze human faces for trustworthiness and dominance, identifying key features such as a U-shaped mouth and surprised eyes. This research has implications for various fields, including sales and criminal justice, where facial expressions can greatly impact perceptions.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2008
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.