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Science News Archive 2008


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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

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.

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

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.

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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

ICS presents prestigious Digby McLaren Medal to Cincinnati's Carl Brett

Carl Brett, a key figure in UC's paleontology program, has been awarded the second-ever Digby McLaren Medal for his significant international contributions to stratigraphy. The medal celebrates Canadian paleontologist Digby Johns McLaren, who was recognized for his impact theory and advocacy.

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.