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Science News Archive 2008


Page 178 of 240

Kids with autism may have gene that causes muscle weakness

Researchers identified a genetic defect affecting energy production in muscles of children with autism spectrum disorders, leading to muscle weakness. The study found that 65% of the children had defects in oxidative phosphorylation, highlighting the importance of understanding how genes impact mitochondrial function.

Insects evolved radically different strategy to smell

Researchers at Rockefeller University and the University of Tokyo found that insects use fast-acting ion channels to smell odors, a major break with previous understanding. This new strategy allows for direct detection of odor molecules, bypassing complex biological apparatus previously thought to be necessary.

How what and how much we eat (and drink) affects our risk of cancer

A study found that moderate drinking in women increases the risk of developing ER+/PR+ breast cancer, with higher risks observed for those who consumed more alcohol. Researchers also identified a link between specific genetic variations and increased breast cancer risk among postmenopausal drinkers.

Ancient dragon has space-age skull

A new international study reveals how the Komodo dragon can efficiently kill prey despite having a weak bite and featherweight skull. The 'space-frame' skull, combined with powerful neck muscles and razor-sharp teeth, allows it to butcher large animal prey.

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.

Developing long-term relations with robots

The LIREC project aims to develop emotionally intelligent companion technology that can engage humans in the long term. Researchers will study people's perceptions of robots and explore how humans bond with synthetic companions, inspired by human-pet relationships.

As close as possible to reality

The CAROD project aims to create more realistic simulation models by incorporating real-world deviations and variations. This technology has the potential to improve product quality and reduce errors in industries such as automotive and manufacturing.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

National hospice study reveals gaps in service

A new University of Michigan study finds major gaps in hospice care availability across the US, attributed to low Medicare funding and reliance on charity. The study shows that communities with lower average incomes and education levels have fewer hospices, while areas with higher incomes and educated populations have more.

MDCT accurate in detecting stenosis in calcified coronary artery plaque

A recent study found that MDCT is accurate in detecting stenosis in small and moderate-sized calcified coronary artery plaque, with a high concordance rate with cardiac catheterization. However, overestimation of stenosis occurred in large and heavily calcified lesions, highlighting the need for caution when interpreting MDCT results.

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.

Personality study shows risk of first depression episode late in life

A unique study found that people with anxious personality traits face a higher risk of first-time clinically significant depression after age 70. Long-standing personality traits can predict onset of depression into older adulthood, especially among women and those from working-class backgrounds.

More safety for cell phone batteries

Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed a new lithium-ion battery with non-flammable polymer electrolytes, enhancing safety and increasing conductivity. The improved batteries are expected to compete with lead batteries in cars within 3-5 years.

Prices at the push of a button

A networked electronic display system allows store managers to quickly update prices on displays via a central computer, eliminating the need for physical price tag changes. The system uses small data packages transmitted between receivers and transmitters, ensuring fast and reliable price updates.

Landon Foundation-AACR INNOVATOR Awards

The Landon Foundation-AACR INNOVATOR Award for Cancer Prevention Research supports early career scientists, while the International Collaboration award promotes global cooperation to accelerate progress against cancer. The awards aim to encourage innovative approaches to cancer prevention and treatment.

Screening mammography in elderly patients beneficial

Elderly patients over 70 years old benefit from frequent mammograms, which can detect breast cancers earlier and reduce surgical procedures. The study found that 19 of 24 cases of breast malignancy were initially identified on screening mammography.

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.

Macadamia nuts can be included in heart healthy diet

A recent study found that macadamia nut consumption as part of a heart-healthy diet reduced low-density cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The researchers used a controlled feeding study with participants who consumed either a standard American diet or a diet supplemented with macadamia nuts.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

MRI better than MDCT in detecting endoleaks, study says

A recent study found that contrast-enhanced MRI significantly outperforms 16 slice multidetector CT in detecting endoleaks after endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurisms. The study detected 21 endoleaks in 18 patients with 100% sensitivity and accuracy on MRI, while MDCT had lower detection rates.

Stem cells offer cartilage repair hope for arthritis sufferers

Researchers have identified a cell that can produce enough of a person's own cartilage to treat cartilage lesions and mark the onset of osteoarthritis. This breakthrough could lead to effective transplantation of transplanted cells into damaged joints, overcoming current limitations in treating arthritis.

Embryonic stem cells could help to overcome immune rejection problems

Researchers are investigating whether embryonic stem cell-derived tissues can be accepted by the immune system, paving the way for new treatments. The study suggests that ES cells display an underlying immune privilege, which could be harnessed to promote regulatory T-cell activity and suppress immune activation.

Major surgery no longer needed for the removal of uterine fibroids

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College found that 3T MR-guided focused ultrasound effectively reduces symptoms of uterine fibroids in 20 patients, with minimal side effects. The non-invasive procedure allows for quick recovery times and eliminates risks associated with surgery.

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.

MRI 'best' for looking at breast cancer and more

Research found that medial breast tumors primarily receive blood from internal mammary vessels, while lateral tumors have a more complex blood supply. This study supports the use of MRI for analyzing breast cancer's impact on surrounding anatomy, particularly vascular supply and lymphatic drainage.

Nervous system for structures

A new 'Structural Health Monitoring' (SHM) system uses sensors and signal processing devices to detect cracks and defects in aircraft, pipelines, and wind turbines. The system aims to prevent damage and optimize maintenance with real-time data.

Cycling more intelligently

Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed intelligent bicycle pedals that track pedaling force and provide real-time feedback to cyclists. The integrated sensors and electronic components enable the system to optimize cycling performance and detect potential issues, such as material fatigue in aircraft parts.

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.

Grand Canyon may be as old as dinosaurs, says new study

A new study by the University of Colorado at Boulder and California Institute of Technology suggests that the Grand Canyon is significantly older than previously thought, potentially dating back to the time of dinosaurs. The research uses radiometric dating to show that the canyon may have formed over 55 million years ago.

Female vets face twice the fertility risk

Research reveals female vets exposed to x-rays, anaesthetic gases, and pesticides are twice as likely to miscarry during pregnancy. The study emphasizes the need for veterinarians to prioritize preventive measures and use protective devices at work.

Medical staff require training on intercultural awareness

A new study found that doctors are dissatisfied with treating non-native patients due to cultural differences and language barriers. Over 2400 doctor questionnaires revealed that Turkish patients received lower-quality care, highlighting the need for improved communication and intercultural training.

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.

Getting forgetful? Then blueberries may hold the key

Researchers found that phytochemical-rich foods like blueberries improve spatial working memory tasks within three weeks. The enhancement is attributed to flavonoids, which stimulate neuronal regeneration and improve cellular communications.

AIAA announces new e-book initiative

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) has launched a new e-book initiative, partnering with MPS Technologies to make its content easily accessible. The initial launch includes 130 titles from the AIAA Education Series and Progress in Astronautics and Aeronautics series.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Elastic stresses influence formation of leaf veins

A joint Argentinian-French study suggests that elastic stresses may play a crucial role in determining leaf venation patterns. By developing a numerical model, the researchers found simulated patterns with statistical properties similar to natural ones, challenging the existing view of auxin's role in vein formation.

Wine may protect against dementia

A Swedish study found that women who consumed wine regularly had a lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who drank beer or liquor. The study, which followed 1,458 women over 34 years, suggests that moderate wine consumption may have protective effects against dementia.

Attending religious services predictive of fidelity

A new study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family reveals that attending religious services is predictive of marital fidelity. The researchers found that prayer, faith, and other dimensions of religious life had no association with infidelity.

Massive study of Madagascar wildlife released

A massive study of Madagascar's wildlife provides a blueprint for conservation, highlighting key areas to protect and prioritizing endangered species. The research uses data from thousands of species and advanced techniques to identify the most important areas for saving fauna and flora.

Attraction at the atomic level

The study reveals that high-temperature superconductors do not rely on a 'glue' binding electrons, but instead utilize their strong repulsive forces to facilitate superconductivity. The researchers used specialized equipment to measure electron pairing mechanisms and found unique quantum properties at warmer temperatures.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Researchers find mass media campaigns useful

A study by University of Kentucky researchers found that targeted mass media campaigns can be successful alone in convincing young adults to adopt safer sex practices. The campaign effectively increased condom use and intentions to use condoms, resulting in a significant reduction in unprotected sex occasions.

Mental health cultivated on the farm

A randomized controlled trial found that spending time with farm animals improved patients' self-efficacy and coping ability, particularly those with schizophrenia and long-lasting psychiatric symptoms. The study suggests that farm animal-assisted therapy may be a beneficial treatment option for individuals with mental health conditions.

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.

Researchers pilot new electronic system for infectious illness

Researchers developed an electronic medical record system called ESP that increased reported infections of Chlamydia and gonorrhoea by 40-50% and provided more complete information on patient conditions. The system is designed to report seven types of infections and offers promise for faster detection and prevention of public health th...

Dr. Mom was right -- and wrong -- about washing fruits and vegetables

New research suggests that irradiation can effectively kill internalized pathogens beyond the reach of conventional chemical sanitizers, including E. coli and Salmonella. Studies show that washing alone may not be enough to reduce foodborne illnesses, highlighting the potential benefits of irradiation in reducing the risk.

Researchers classify Web searches

Researchers analyzed over 1.5 million queries to find that 80% are informational, while 10% are navigational or transactional in nature. An algorithm developed by Penn State researchers achieved a 74% accuracy rate in classifying these searches.

Sharing the road

During embryonic development, ephrin/Eph signaling helps regulate the growth of sensory and motor neurons. When this cross-talk is interrupted, motor neurons can mistakenly join sensory pathways, leading to a 'wiring disaster.' Researchers hope to use these findings to develop new treatments for spinal cord injuries

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.

Absence of clouds caused pre-human supergreenhouse periods

A team of Penn State paleoclimatologists found that a lack of cloud cover led to pre-human supergreenhouse periods during the Cetaceous and Eocene. By altering the Earth's albedo through changes in cloud cover, the researchers were able to recreate temperature regimes with mean annual temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.