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Science News Archive 2008


Page 142 of 240

New superconductors present new mysteries, possibilities

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have unlocked secrets of newly discovered iron-based high-temperature superconductors, revealing new physics and mysteries. The findings suggest a need for fresh theoretical models to develop superconductors that can operate at room temperature.

Tipsheet for June issue of BSSA

Numerical earthquake models are providing a means to understand physical processes and predict earthquakes, reducing damage and loss of life. Simulations show that surface-rupturing earthquakes absorb more seismic energy than buried ones, resulting in less ground shaking.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Substance in red wine found to keep hearts young

A new study found that low doses of resveratrol mimic the heart-healthy effects of caloric restriction, suggesting a possible explanation for France's low incidence of heart disease. The compound may also promote mitochondrial health and have anti-aging benefits.

UCSB's Nakamura wins Prince of Asturias Award

Professor Nakamura's revolutionary light-emitting diodes and blue laser diode have significantly contributed to the progress of humanity in energy efficiency. The award recognizes his work as a major breakthrough, enabling solid-state lighting to replace traditional incandescent and fluorescent lighting up to ten times more efficiently.

Team hopes to use new technology to search for ETs

Researchers are using the Allen Telescope Array to target a specific area of the sky, the ecliptic plane, where they believe civilizations may be more likely to transmit signals. This targeted search increases the chances of detecting extraterrestrial life in our galaxy.

AGU journal highlights -- June 4, 2008

Researchers found that high-energy electrons are lost by the inner radiation belt during VLF transmitter periods, suggesting human systems can control radiation belt dynamics. Additionally, enhanced mixing within Southern Ocean fronts influences global ocean circulation and climate.

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.

Family history of colorectal cancer linked with reduced risk of cancer recurrence

A family history of colorectal cancer is associated with a significant reduction in cancer recurrence and death, especially among patients receiving chemotherapy treatment. The study found that having more affected first-degree relatives further increased the protective effect, suggesting a distinct underlying molecular mechanism.

Average shoppers are willing to pay a premium for locally produced food

Research suggests that average supermarket shoppers are willing to pay a premium price for locally produced foods, with a notable difference between farm market and retail grocery shoppers. Shoppers prioritize buying food from small farms over corporate operations and value freshness guarantees.

Honeybee dance breaks down cultural barrier

International researchers discovered that Asian and European honeybees can share information and cooperate through dance language despite their geographical distance. The study showed that the two species can decipher encoded messages correctly after adjustment in a mixed colony.

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.

Brown researchers work toward ending cartilage loss

Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to regenerate cartilage naturally by creating a synthetic surface that attracts cartilage-forming cells. The team, led by Thomas Webster, uses carbon nanotubes to stimulate cell growth through electrical pulses, which appears to enhance cartilage regeneration.

Finding clues for nerve cell repair

Researchers at Montreal Neurological Institute discovered a critical gene, Runx1, that regulates motor neuron development and maintenance. This finding holds promise for understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS.

Revolution in rain forest monitoring with MacArthur grant

The Carnegie Institution's Department of Global Ecology is developing a database of plant chemical and remote sensing signatures for tropical forest species with a $1.8 million MacArthur grant. This 'Spectranomics Project' will enable large-scale inventory and tracking of rainforest vegetation globally, enhancing satellite observations.

Study finds healthy intestinal bacteria within chicken eggs

Researchers discovered that chickens are born with healthy intestinal bacteria, challenging conventional wisdom on how birds acquire these microorganisms. The study suggests that administering probiotics in ovo could improve growth and reduce the risk of food-borne illness.

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.

U of M sets course for cure of fatal childhood skin disease

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new standard of care for children with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) using cord blood and bone marrow transplants. The treatment has shown promising results in improving skin quality and reducing blisters, offering new hope for these patients.

Antibacterial wipes can still spread bacteria

A new study by Cardiff University researchers found that antimicrobial-containing wipes used in hospitals can spread pathogens after first use. The study highlights concerns over the suitability of these wipes and the importance of regular surveillance programs to reduce infection risks.

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.

Professional society honors PNNL scientist

Julia Laskin, a PNNL chemist, has received the Biemann Medal for her groundbreaking research on mass spectrometry. Her work advances biomaterials and biological processes for clean energy production and creates biologically inspired systems.

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.

Instant messaging proves useful in reducing workplace interruption

Researchers at Ohio State University found that instant messaging on the job reduces interruption and increases productivity. Employees use instant messaging to check in with coworkers and get quick answers to general questions, rather than engaging in face-to-face conversations or using the phone and email.

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.

NASA targets GLAST launch for June 7

NASA has set a new target launch date for the Gamma-ray Large Area Space Telescope (GLAST) on June 7, following additional time needed to resolve engineering concerns. The launch window remains unchanged, and details of the prelaunch news conference are planned.

Virginia Tech researchers find human virus in chimpanzees

Researchers have found a human virus in chimpanzees in Tanzania's Mahale Mountains National Park, which may be transmitted from visiting scientists and tourists. The discovery highlights the need for more research to establish a comfortable level of proof and protect the region through science-based changes.

Climate change could impact vital functions of microbes

Rising temperatures may reduce microbial carbon dioxide production due to increased nitrogen levels in the soil, but human-induced CO2 changes could shift microbial populations with significant impacts on food chains. Microbial communities under glaciers and snowpacks are also threatened by warming temperatures.

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.

New Zealand bird outwits alien predators

Researchers found that New Zealand birds can change their nesting behavior in response to introduced predators, reducing the risk of predation. This adaptation allows island birds to survive even in areas with high levels of predator activity, providing new insights for conservation efforts.

Possible new approach to purifying drinking water

A genetic tool called RNA interference may help remove harmful microbes and viruses from drinking water. The approach, which targets a specific gene in a fungus found in water, has promise for solving safe drinking water issues in underdeveloped countries.

Agent in red wine found to keep hearts young

Researchers found that low doses of resveratrol, a natural constituent in red wine, mimic the effects of caloric restriction on aging. The study shows that small doses can elicit many benefits as a reduced-calorie diet, including prevention of heart decline associated with aging.

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.

Yale Environment 360 magazine launches online

Yale Environment 360, a new online magazine, covers global environmental issues with reports, analysis, and Op-Ed-style pieces. The site features original articles by leading journalists, scientists, and experts, showcasing diverse perspectives on climate change, energy policy, and more.

Eating and weight gain not necessarily linked, study shows

A recent study using Caenorhabditis elegans to examine the relationship between eating and weight gain found that increased eating does not necessarily lead to increased fat. The researchers discovered two separate signaling channels controlled by serotonin, which regulates feeding and fat metabolism.

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.

Veterinary medicine contributes $3.3 billion to New England economy

A new study highlights the critical need for veterinarians in New England, where the region's economy relies on veterinary medicine worth $3.3 billion. The study reveals a shortage of up to 658 veterinarians by 2014 and notes that food animal veterinians will retire at nearly twice the rate of their companion animal colleagues.

A wafer of polyethylene

Researchers have created ultrathin polymer films made of nanocrystals using a novel production technique. The method, led by Stefan Mecking, produces films with a thickness of 50 nm using individual prefabricated nanocrystal building blocks.

Highest ever levels of post-traumatic stress found in Uganda

A study published in BMC Psychiatry reveals that 54% of Ugandans meet symptom criteria for PTSD, while 67% show signs of depression. The study attributed these findings to the country's history of trauma exposure, including rape, hunger, and lack of medical care.

Patients with heart failure often overestimate life expectancy

A study found that patients with heart failure significantly overestimated their remaining life span, with median overestimation of 40% compared to clinical predictions. Younger patients and those with more severe disease were more likely to make longer predictions, while depression was not a predictive factor.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Heart failure patients miscalculate life expectancy

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that heart failure patients significantly overestimate their life expectancy, with an average prediction of 13 years beyond accepted survival models. Despite this, patients' predictions showed no correlation with disease severity or clinical outcomes.

Parasitoid turns its host into a bodyguard

A parasitoid wasp induces its moth caterpillar host to stop feeding, remain close to the pupae, and defend against predators, resulting in increased pupae survival. The caterpillar's behavioral changes appear to outweigh potential risks of increased transmission for the parasite.

UNH receives $380,000 grant to study organic dairy as closed ecosystem

Researchers will explore strategies for closing energy and nutrient cycles in small family dairy farms. Initial studies suggest that intensive management of manure, changing bedding methods, and increasing on-site grain production can achieve energy independence and a closed nitrogen system.

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.

Can we 'wipe out' MRSA?

A study by Cardiff University found that current hospital protocols for antimicrobial wipes can spread pathogens like MRSA. Implementing a single-use, one-surface-per-wipe approach could reduce MRSA incidence in hospitals.

Firearm suicide and homicide rates associated with level of background check

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that local-level background checks are associated with a 27% lower firearm suicide rate and a 22% lower homicide rate compared to federal-level checks. States that rely on local-level checks have substantially lower rates of firearm suicides and homicides.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The breathing lifeline that comes at a price

A new research project uses computer modeling to look at the best way of using ventilators while minimizing the risk of injury. Real-life data collected from patients will be used to create the models, which could lead to computer management of ventilators for optimal treatment and reduced harm.

Holistic understanding: Ag chemicals in the environment

The USGS conducted a holistic study on agricultural chemicals in the environment, collecting field data and employing numerical models to simulate water and chemical transport. The results show that modifications to agricultural practices can profoundly alter chemical transport rates, affecting contaminant dilution and transformation.