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Science News Archive 2008


Page 141 of 240

A supra new kind of froth

Researchers have discovered that magnetic domains in type-I superconducting lead exhibit patterns similar to everyday froths like soap foam or frothed milk. The team found that suprafroths, a new kind of froth system created by applying a magnetic field, adhere to statistical laws governing the behavior of froths.

Another new wrinkle in treating skin aging

Researchers found that a natural lipid, phosphatidylserine, can prevent collagen reduction and increase MMPs in both natural and UV-induced aging. Topical application of the molecule may be a simple way to slow down skin wrinkling.

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.

Brucella abortus S19 genome sequenced; points toward virulence genes

Researchers have discovered a group of 24 linked to virulence in Brucella abortus strain S19, which has been used as a vaccine for cattle. The study's findings may explain why other strains cause disease and trigger abortion in livestock. This understanding could aid in combating brucellosis and its potential applications in bioterrorism.

Terrorism risk determines homeland security spending

A new study published in Policy Studies Journal reveals that terrorism risk is a positive determinant of Homeland Security funding. The research analyzed DHS funding patterns from 2004 to 2006 and found no evidence of political influence on grant distribution.

How best to treat chronic pain? The jury is still out

Recent studies on pain medicine highlight the need for personalized treatment approaches. Researchers found that opioid therapy often lacks sufficient trial duration to determine its effectiveness for chronic pain sufferers.

New partnership with Petroleum Exploration and Development announced

The partnership aims to spread Chinese scientific knowledge on petroleum exploration to a wider audience, facilitating communication between Chinese and international experts. The journal's strict peer-review process and high rejection rate ensure the publication of high-quality research.

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.

Admiring celebrities can help improve self-esteem

A study published in Personal Relationships found that people with low self-esteem can use parasocial relationships with celebrities to view themselves more positively. These relationships, which involve admiration without actual contact, offer a low-risk alternative to real relationships and can help reduce self-discrepancies.

JCI online early table of contents: June 5, 2008

Researchers have identified cells that initiate infant tumors, developing a new mouse model to identify therapeutic targets. A molecule called IRF4 has been found to control inflammation in the gut, while implanting olfactory ensheathing cells promotes neuroplasticity in stroke models.

Building on pyramids of trash

A Dutch engineer suggests building pyramids from solidified waste to dispose of toxic industrial and domestic waste. This innovative system reduces the risk of toxic materials leaching into groundwater, providing a sustainable solution to waste management.

Talking to cells

Researchers at the University of Nottingham created artificial polymer vesicles that can communicate with bacterial cells using sugar groups. These vesicles transfer information to the cells in the form of dye molecules, opening possibilities for targeted drug delivery and treatment.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Motivation of small business managers affects firm growth

A new study published in Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice reveals that the motivation of small business managers has a long-term effect on firm growth. The study found that motivation is a relevant predictor of firm growth, with managers' motivations varying and affecting the growth achieved.

New research explores role of serotonin

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that low serotonin levels are associated with increased impulsivity, particularly during social interactions. The study suggests that boosting serotonin levels through diet or therapy may help alleviate symptoms of depression, OCD, and anxiety disorders.

Argonne research unveiling the secrets of nanoparticle haloing

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered the structure of nanoparticle haloing, a new method for stabilizing colloids. The discovery reveals that nanoparticles form a loosely organized layer around microspheres, suggesting a weak attraction between the two, and opens up new possibilities for producing novel materials.

Teenagers attending college less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior

According to a University of Washington study, teenagers attending college are significantly less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior than those who do not attend college. The study found that college students were more likely to always use a condom and less likely to engage in casual sex or high-risk sex.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blindness caused by trachoma should be eliminated by 2020

Trachoma causes blindness in 84 million people worldwide, but progress has been made since 1995 with a decline from 15% to 4% of global blindness. The SAFE strategy's success is attributed to improved socioeconomic conditions and widespread implementation.

Mountain ranges rise much more rapidly than geologists expected

A new study suggests mountain ranges like the Andes can rise rapidly, doubling their heights in a short period. The traditional theory of plate tectonics will need to be revised to include the process of delamination, which proposes that the 'root' beneath the crust heats up and breaks free, allowing mountains to quickly rise.

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.

Tufts researcher leads revision of osteoporosis guidelines

The new Clinician's Guide incorporates the World Health Organization's absolute fracture prediction algorithm (FRAX), increasing the identification of patients at risk for osteoporosis. The guide now applies to men over 50 and post-menopausal non-Caucasian women, including African-Americans, Asians, and Latinas.

Where mathematics and astrophysics meet

Mathematicians Dmitry Khavinson and Genevra Neumann describe how their work on the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra led them to questions in astrophysics, specifically gravitational lensing. Their result resolves a conjecture of Sun Hong Rhie, establishing that the number of zeros of certain rational harmonic functions is 5n - 5.

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.

Regular tipple may curb risk of rheumatoid arthritis

Research published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that moderate alcohol consumption reduces the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis by up to 50%. The study, which involved over 2,750 participants, also highlighted the importance of quitting smoking as a key preventive measure.

Enzyme plays key role in cell fate

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that caspases, known as 'killer enzymes,' play a crucial role in cell differentiation. By manipulating programmed cell death pathways and caspase targets, scientists may be able to revert somatic cells into embryonic stem cell-like states.

Human stem cells show promise against fatal children's diseases

Researchers used human stem cells to repair defective wiring in the brain and spinal cord of mice with a neurological condition similar to fatal childhood diseases. The treatment showed promising results, with four mice appearing completely cured and six living far beyond their usual lifespan.

Simple membranes could have allowed nutrients to pass into primitive cells

Researchers found that simple membranes composed of fatty acids can allow small molecules to pass through, supporting a theory about the first cells' interactions with their environment. The study also confirms the ability of nucleotide molecules to form DNA within vesicles, suggesting a possible way for early cells to replicate.

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.

Brief, intense exercise benefits the heart

Research from McMaster University found that brief, high-intensity sprints improve blood vessel function and structure, similar to traditional long-duration exercise. The study suggests that short bursts of intense exercise can reap the same cardiovascular benefits as longer workouts.

NASA scientists pioneer method for making giant lunar telescopes

Scientists at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center have developed a novel method for creating massive telescope mirrors on the Moon, utilizing carbon nanotubes and lunar dust. The technique enables the production of highly reflective mirrors with minimal effort and cost, paving the way for giant telescopes up to 50 meters in diameter.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Public funding impacts progress of human embryonic stem cell research

The study found that the UK and Israel produced substantially more research in human embryonic stem cells than other fields. In contrast, Australia showed a modest result due to its mixed policy on stem cell research. The US is still the largest producer of research in this field but lags behind when compared to other similar fields.

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.

Probiotic bacteria protect endangered frogs from lethal skin disease

Research by JMU researchers suggests that adding probiotic bacteria to the skin of mountain yellow-legged frogs can lessen the effects of a lethal skin pathogen. Field studies have also shown that populations with higher proportions of individuals with anti-pathogen bacteria are more likely to survive.

Weather, stomach bugs and climate change: Refining the model

Researchers develop model predicting disease outbreaks based on weather patterns and climate variability. The study shows an association between high temperature and daily incidence of cryptosporidiosis in Massachusetts, highlighting the need for better understanding of how climate affects disease spread.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Data show Antarctic ice stream radiating seismically

Researchers discovered that an Antarctic ice stream radiates seismic waves, similar to earthquakes, due to the 'stick-slip' phenomenon. The ice stream moves about 18 inches within ten minutes, producing two bursts of seismic waves per day.

Long-term pesticide exposure may increase risk of diabetes

Researchers found that licensed pesticide applicators who used chlorinated pesticides for over 100 days were at greater risk of developing diabetes. The study associated specific pesticides with a 20-200% increase in risk, with trichlorfon showing the strongest relationship.

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.

New wireless sensor network keeps tabs on the environment

The EcoNet wireless sensor network allows for continuous and inconspicuous monitoring of environmental factors such as temperature and luminosity in remote locations. This enables researchers to uncover anomalies early on and investigate them promptly, providing valuable insights into global environmental changes.

Are microbes the answer to the energy crisis?

Researchers are discovering microbes that can efficiently produce inexpensive, environmentally friendly biofuels as alternatives to oil. These microorganisms can ferment biomass into ethanol and biodiesel, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.

Does everyone really want to be a macho man?

A study found that Mexican-American men are more likely to endorse traditional masculine roles than European-American or black men. High SES is linked to a stronger adherence to these roles, even at the expense of emotional pressure.

Cartilage regeneration '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea'

Bioengineers at Rice University have developed a method to stimulate cartilage cell growth using intense pressure, resulting in tissue with nearly all properties of natural cartilage. The new process has potential for treating arthritis and repairing damaged tissues, but further testing is needed.

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.

Mayo Clinic: Heart patients fare better in 3-year program

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that heart patients who met regularly with cardiac 'disease managers' for three years had better control of risk factors and lower death rates. The approach demonstrated clear clinical benefits, including improved cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and medication compliance.

A new way to protect computer networks from Internet worms

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new way to protect computer networks from Internet worms by automatically detecting infections within minutes. The method involves monitoring the number of scans sent out by machines on a network and isolating infected machines in quarantine for repairs.

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.

Programs succeed in reducing risky sex among HIV-positive minority men

Research at UCLA found that interventions addressing early life experiences, including childhood sexual abuse, can reduce high-risk sex and depressive symptoms among HIV-positive African American and Hispanic men. Social support within the groups played a significant role in these positive changes.