Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive 2008


Page 105 of 240

Genetic data promises new future for kiwi fruit

Researchers have released the world's most extensive collection of kiwifruit DNA sequences, which will help breeders create new varieties with improved nutritional content and desirable traits. The data is expected to speed up the development of new kiwifruit varieties through Marker Assisted Selection.

Water refineries?

Researchers have discovered an efficient way to produce oxygen from water using a simple and inexpensive technique involving cobalt and phosphates. This breakthrough has significant implications for the large-scale deployment of solar energy, offering a cheap and easily manufactured storage mechanism.

Male fish deceive rivals about their top mate choice

In a new study, male Atlantic mollies were found to deceive rivals about their top mate choice by feigning disinterest and directing advances toward less-preferred females in the presence of other males. This sophisticated behavior highlights that traits ascribed to humans can also be found in simpler animals.

Neurons created from skin cells of elderly ALS patients

Scientists at Harvard University have successfully created human stem cells from the skin cells of elderly ALS patients, paving the way for potential treatments. The breakthrough uses induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to differentiate into motor neurons, which can be studied in a lab dish to understand the disease process.

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.

Water refineries?

Researchers have discovered a way to extract pure oxygen from water using relatively small amounts of electricity and common chemicals. The breakthrough could lead to the development of solar-powered energy systems that can operate 24/7.

Study reveals cost of stabbings to Britain's health service

A new study by the University of Manchester reveals that stabbings are costing the National Health Service (NHS) over £3 million a year. The research found that stabbings account for almost three-quarters of all penetrating trauma injuries, with an average cost to the NHS per victim of £7,196.

The amazing quantum world of ultra cold matter

At near-absolute zero temperatures, quantum mechanics reveals fascinating phenomena such as Bose-Einstein condensates and entanglement. Researchers discuss recent advances in atomic and optical physics, precision timekeeping with ultra-cold atoms, and the potential for monitoring global climate change.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fat around the heart may increase risk of heart attacks

A recent study published in Obesity found that having excess fat around the heart may increase the risk of heart attacks. Researchers discovered that the volume of pericardial fat was related to the development of calcified coronary plaque, a marker for increased cardiovascular risk.

New method assesses risks for heart failure patients

A new method has been developed to accurately determine the severity of heart failure in US hospital patients, using data from 260 hospitals across the country. The model identifies key patient characteristics that predict in-hospital mortality, such as admission creatinine levels and systolic blood pressure.

Olfactory fine-tuning helps fruit flies find their mates

Researchers found that fruit flies can dampen their response to intense smells to prevent overload, using a feedback mechanism to navigate the olfactory landscape. This adaptation allows flies to detect subtle changes in odor concentrations and track pheromones, enabling them to find mates.

Mechanism for postpartum depression found in mice

Researchers discovered a mechanism in mouse brains that may explain why human mothers develop depression after childbirth. The study found that a GABA receptor subunit fluctuates during pregnancy and postpartum, impairing the brain's ability to adapt to hormone fluctuations.

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.

String probes for devastating childhood digestive disease

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago are developing string probe tests to diagnose eosinophilic esophagitis, a condition where defense cells attack the esophagus. The test uses a swallowed string with gelatin capsule to measure inflammatory proteins and replace repeat endoscopies.

Drinking in excess associated with increased risk for metabolic syndrome

A new study found that those who drink excessively are at increased risk for metabolic syndrome, a condition associated with cardiovascular disease. The study analyzed data from over 1,500 participants and found that most people in the US drink in ways that may increase their risk of metabolic syndrome.

MicroRNA implicated as molecular factor in alcohol tolerance

A new study found that microRNA may influence the development of alcohol tolerance by regulating gene expression in brain cells. MicroRNA-9 was shown to block the expression of certain BK channel variants, which exhibited high alcohol sensitivity and low tolerance.

Cassini instrument confirms liquid surface lake on Titan

Scientists confirmed a surface liquid lake on Titan, measuring approximately 235 kilometers long and filled with liquid ethane. The discovery was made using the Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS) instrument on NASA's Cassini orbiter.

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.

New Alzheimer's predictors advance earlier detection

NYU researchers have identified new predictors for Alzheimer's disease, including brain atrophy and biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid. These findings may help predict individuals at high risk of developing the disease, enabling early detection and prevention.

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.

Nephrologists debate uses of estimated kidney function

The American Society of Nephrology discusses the merits of using eGFR for early detection and treatment of CKD, highlighting concerns about misclassification and universal screening. Experts emphasize the need for education and proper use of eGFR to ensure accurate diagnosis and management.

Increased burden of rare genetic variations found in schizophrenia

Researchers discovered a significant increase in rare deletions and duplications of genetic material in people with schizophrenia, affecting 13.1% of cases and 10.4% of controls. Two new sites on Chromosomes 1 and 15 were implicated as potent risk factors for the disorder.

New schizophrenia genes uncovered

Researchers have identified four mutated gene regions linked to schizophrenia, offering new hope for treatment and diagnosis. The findings may lead to individualized medicine and earlier identification of those at risk.

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.

'Hidden' Van Gogh painting revealed

A new technique has successfully revealed a hidden portrait of a woman behind Vincent van Gogh's 'Patch of Grass'. The method, using synchrotron radiation induced X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, allowed researchers to reconstruct the concealed painting in unparalleled detail.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Nanojewels made easy

Scientists at Arizona State University have developed a simple way to make colorful nanocrystals using colloid chemistry methods. The process involves placing nanoparticles in a drop of water on a superhydrophobic surface and letting it dry, resulting in opalescent colors. This method has the potential to create new materials for photo...

Smart contact lenses

Researchers at UC Davis have created smart contact lenses that can measure eye pressure and dispense medication. These contact lenses, made with a new material, could help doctors better understand glaucoma and improve patient treatment.

Plant parasite 'wiretaps' host

Researchers discovered that a parasitic plant can intercept host RNA molecules up to a foot from the point of infection, allowing it to synchronize its lifecycle with the host. This finding could lead to new ways to combat parasites that attack crop plants.

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.

New study shows calcium significantly improves children's bone health

A recent study published in the journal Bone found that higher intakes of calcium significantly improve bone health in children. The study, which pooled data from 21 randomized clinical trials, revealed a substantial increase in total body bone mineral content among children with inadequate calcium consumption.

Study identifies changes to DNA in major depression and suicide

A new study finds that proteins modifying DNA play a key role in major depression and suicide, with brain tissue showing higher rates of epigenetic regulation. The research, led by Dr. Michael O. Poulter, identifies a gene involved in regulating brain activity as being heavily chemically modified in deceased individuals.

Psychological downside to strike action

Research by Dr Jane Fowler found strikers experienced higher levels of depression and anxiety, but those actively involved in union activities showed lower symptoms. Unions can support members with financial assistance and counselling to reduce psychological impact.

Traumatic response to bad memories can be minimized

Researchers have discovered a new process that regulates adverse responses to bad memories by working on a tiny group of neurons inside the amygdala. By blocking or activating specific receptors, scientists can speed up or slow down traumatic responses, offering potential new treatments for panic disorders.

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.

Beating the baby blues: A mouse model for postpartum depression

A new study provides a mouse model that may lead to the development of new treatments for mood disorders associated with pregnancy. The research found that alterations in GABA neurotransmitter system and GABAA receptor sensitivity during pregnancy and postpartum are linked to depression-like behaviors.

Belief in God, parenthood prompt gay partners to make commitment

A study found that gay couples with children and strong religious beliefs are more likely to formalize their relationship through commitment ceremonies. The study, published in the Journal of Family Psychology, suggests that these couples may be motivated by parenting and religious commitments.

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.

Study bolsters link to maternal Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that individuals with a maternal history of Alzheimer's disease exhibit progressive metabolic reductions in glucose usage, particularly in areas of the brain affected by AD. This study bolsters previous findings and suggests that maternal risk for AD may be mediated through reduced brain metabolism.

Gene may put women with migraine at increased risk of heart disease and stroke

Women with migraines, especially those with aura, may be at higher risk for heart disease and stroke due to a specific gene variant. A study found that women with this gene variant had more than three times the risk of cardiovascular disease, including four times the risk for stroke compared to those without the gene.

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.

New insight on superconductors

A team of researchers from UC Davis and Los Alamos National Laboratory have found a simple way to calculate the temperature at which the Kondo liquid emerges in heavy-electron materials, leading to new understanding of superconductivity. The discovery may help researchers find organizing principles of heavy-electron superconductivity.

Prelude to the Higgs: A work for 2 bosons in the key of Z

The DZero collaboration at Fermilab has observed pairs of Z bosons, a rare event that makes its discovery an essential prelude to finding or excluding the Higgs boson. The observation was made possible by analyzing nearly 200 trillion proton-antiproton collisions.

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 technique to compress light could open doors for optical communications

Scientists at UC Berkeley have developed a way to confine light in incredibly small spaces, potentially leading to breakthroughs in optical communications, miniature lasers and optical computing. The technique could give remarkable control over light, allowing for the creation of compact optical transistors.

New yeast trick for eating favorite food: Details in Nature paper

UC San Diego bioengineers identified a previously unknown mechanism allowing yeast to shut down galactose metabolism when glucose is present. This discovery provides new insights into gene regulation and could lead to understanding of human metabolic diseases like diabetes.

Sky's the limit for incoming UM students

Five University of Miami students received top honors with prestigious American Meteorological Society (AMS) awards, bolstering the university's reputation for academic rigor in meteorology. The Rosenstiel School's undergraduate program, one of only 70 nationwide, has seen notable success with these scholarships and fellowships.

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.

UCLA imaging study suggests Alzheimer's drug may help mild memory loss

A small sample of adults with mild age-related memory loss showed increased brain metabolism and normalized brain function after taking Aricept for 18 months. The study suggests treating early symptoms of memory loss may protect the brain and help with mild age-related cognitive decline.