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Science News Archive 2008 - Page 194


Page 194 of 240

Depressed caregivers hostile, not warm, to children

A new study found that caregivers with moderate to severe depressive symptoms exhibited lower levels of warmth and higher levels of hostility towards their low-income children with asthma. Researchers used data from a longitudinal study examining treatment adherence among these families.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalFamily Process·DateMar 19, 2008
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.

Scientists find color vision system independent of motion detection

A new study by NYU and University of Würzburg researchers found that color vision does not contribute to motion detection in fruit flies, challenging previous assumptions. The findings suggest two separate functional pathways for color and motion processing.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 2008

Molecular biology of sleep apnea could lead to new treatments

Researchers have identified a link between protein misfolding and sleep apnea, finding that cells with healthy proteins may repair themselves, while unhealthy cells self-destruct. A drug called salubrinal shows promise in preventing cell death, but its toxicity limits its potential.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2008

Punishment does not earn rewards or cooperation, study finds

A study by researchers at Harvard University found that punishing others does not increase the average payoff of a group. Instead, it leads to reduced individual payoff and a downward spiral of retaliation. The study suggests that punishment may have evolved for dominance hierarchy and ownership defense, rather than cooperation.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMar 19, 2008
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.

Good luck indeed: 53 million-year-old rabbit's foot bones found

Researchers have discovered 53 million-year-old rabbit's foot bones that predates the oldest previously known rabbits by several million years. The fossils found in west-central India show advanced rabbit-like features and extend the record of rabbits on the Indian subcontinent by 35 million years.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateMar 19, 2008

Robot fetches objects with just a point and a click

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a robot called El-E that can find and deliver everyday items using a direct laser pointer interface. The robot uses multiple methods to localize objects and grasp them, making it particularly useful for patients with severe mobility challenges.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 19, 2008

'At home' genomic tests for disease risk premature

Genetic tests marketed directly to consumers may be premature and lack scientific validity. Dr. Kenneth Offit warns of the risks of self-ordering these tests without guidance from healthcare professionals. He advocates for cautious introduction of new 'whole genome' testing in clinical trials.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalJAMA·DateMar 18, 2008

Increased hepcidin expression: A novel oncogenic signalling mechanism

Researchers found hepcidin expression positively associated with stage of colorectal disease and also expressed in a subset of colorectal cancer tissues. This suggests that cancer cells sequester iron to feed their high metabolic activity, perpetuating the cancer phenotype.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 18, 2008

Rabbits to the rescue of the reef

Scientists found that rabbit fish are efficient herbivores capable of controlling weedy growth on coral reefs. The fish concentrate their efforts on the reef crest, but less effectively on slopes and flats, highlighting the need for a diverse 'guild' of species to maintain reef resilience.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalCoral Reefs·DateMar 18, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New technique improves outcome for living donor liver transplants

A new CT imaging technique has significantly improved the outcome of living donor liver transplants by enhancing accurate visualization of vital bile duct anatomy. This innovation, adopted by radiologists at the University of Alberta Hospital, aims to reduce screening time and improve convenience for potential donors.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalClinical Radiology·DateMar 18, 2008

NIST team proves bridge from conventional to molecular electronics possible

Researchers at NIST demonstrate assembly of a single layer of organic molecules on a silicon crystal substrate compatible with CMOS manufacturing technology. The team builds a working molecular electronic device and verifies its functionality, paving the way for hybrid CMOS-molecular devices.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

NIST evaluates firefighting tactics in NYC high-rise test

Researchers used a NYC high-rise as a fire laboratory to study wind-driven flame, smoke, and gas spread through corridors and stairways. Positive pressure ventilation fans and prototype devices helped control deadly heat and smoke from wind-driven fires.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

Cutting-edge computational molecular biology research featured in Genome Research

Researchers have developed new mathematical models to infer ancestral origins from genomic data, significantly improving accuracy. Additionally, a novel technique for mapping disease genes using admixture linkage disequilibrium has been created, offering a powerful approach for identifying genetic determinants of common diseases.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 18, 2008

Loopy photons clarify 'spookiness' of quantum physics

Scientists created pairs of entangled photons using a twisted optical fiber, demonstrating the 'spooky action at a distance' predicted by quantum theory. Their results rule out nonlocal hidden variables theories and confirm quantum mechanics' predictions.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review A·DateMar 18, 2008

New study changes conditions for Spanish brown bears

A recent study published in PNAS found that Spanish brown bears have genetic material from bears in other parts of Europe, challenging the idea of their isolation. The research, led by Anders Götherstam and Cristina Valdiosera, analyzed DNA sequences from prehistoric material and discovered a unexpected pattern.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

A built-in strategy for transgene containment

Researchers at Zhejiang University developed a technology to create selectively terminable transgenic rice plants using RNAi cassette. This innovation allows for controlled cultivation and reduces the risk of transgene spreading, making it ideal for bioreactors and industrial applications.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 18, 2008

What should we do when esophageal perforation occurs?

The use of a rigid endoscope during removal of an impacted foreign body is an effective and safe treatment alternative for esophageal perforation. Non-operative management is not recommended in the presence of neck and mediastinum abscesses, necessitating surgical suture and drainage.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 18, 2008

Killer stairs? Taking the elevator could be worse for your body

A new study published in JAMA found that a lack of regular physical activity can cause many diseases, with effects visible within two weeks. The researchers discovered that reducing daily physical activity led to higher glucose and fat levels in the blood, increasing the risk of chronic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateMar 18, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Tell them where it hurts

A new technique called Scan and Solve uses 3-D data analysis to predict stress points in objects like Michelangelo's David and human bones. The approach could aid engineers in developing protections for heavily used components, such as ancient artifacts and implants.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 18, 2008

What effect does melatonin have in colitis?

Researchers found that melatonin administration reverses marked increases in bacterial translocation in postcolitis rats due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. The study suggests a potential therapeutic role for melatonin in managing colitis.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

Satellites can help Arctic grazers survive killer winter storms

Researchers found a signature to detect rain-on-snow events in satellite microwave imagery, which can prevent mass starvation of native people's livestock. The method could provide a realistic chance of getting food to herds affected by the devastating weather event.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalWater Resources Research·DateMar 18, 2008

Reducing HD risk naturally post-menopause

Regular aerobic exercise significantly decreases oxidative stress levels and improves cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. The study found that both HRT users and non-users benefited equally from the exercise program, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

SourceTemple University·JournalJournal of Women & Aging·DateMar 18, 2008

Introspective experiences inform inferences about similar people -- but not dissimilar

A study published in PNAS found that the brain's ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vMPFC) is activated when individuals infer the thoughts and feelings of people who are similar to themselves. However, this activation is not seen when considering dissimilar individuals. The research suggests that people rely on their own experiences to m...

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2008

Mekong schistosomiasis is more widespread than previously thought

A new study suggests that Schistosoma mekongi is more widely distributed in the Mekong River basin than previously believed, posing a potential threat to disease control efforts. The parasite's range may be broader than thought, with possible spread into Laos from Vietnam.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 18, 2008

Research promising for cystic fibrosis

Researchers at University of Toronto have identified compounds that block the activity of a key protein (ExoS) in cystic fibrosis patients. These compounds may also serve as a model for future therapies against the HIV virus, according to a new study published in PLoS Genetics.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

Stopping a receptor called 'nogo' boosts the synapses

Reducing the nogo receptor in the brain results in stronger brain signaling in mice, effectively boosting signal strength between synapses. The findings suggest that enhancing synaptic plasticity can partially counter the effects of an injury like stroke or traumatic brain injury.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateMar 18, 2008

Gene 'knockout' floors tobacco carcinogen

Researchers at NC State University have developed a method to silence a gene that turns nicotine into a carcinogen, resulting in a six-fold decrease in N-nitrosonornicotine and a 50% overall reduction in TSNAs. This breakthrough could lead to tobacco products with reduced amounts of cancer-causing agents.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

New choices bring wider range of women to family planning

A study published in Contraception reports that the Standard Days Method brings new women to family planning, with over half having never used a method before. The method's effectiveness and ease of use led to increased contraceptive use among participants.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalContraception·DateMar 18, 2008

Does stress damage the brain?

A study found reduced gray matter density in the pregenual anterior cingulate cortex of combat-exposed veterans with PTSD, but not their identical twins. The researchers suggest that stress exposure may cause this damage, leading to emotional consequences.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 18, 2008

Spring training for parents?

A study by sport psychologists at the University of Washington found that providing parent workshops alongside coach training decreases performance anxiety and stress in young athletes. The research demonstrated the effectiveness of this combined approach in improving the youth sports experience.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Youth Development·DateMar 18, 2008

Canine influenza was around as early as 1999

Researchers found evidence of canine influenza virus circulation in the greyhound population dating back to 1999. The discovery sheds light on a potential earlier introduction of the virus, which may have caused respiratory outbreaks at racing tracks.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

Lithium chloride slows onset of skeletal muscle disorder

A UC Irvine study finds that lithium chloride can slow the development of inclusion body myositis, a skeletal muscle disease affecting the elderly. The treatment reduced phospho-tau levels and motor function loss in mice, suggesting potential effectiveness for humans.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 18, 2008

Scans spot hidden tumors in rare cancer syndrome

Researchers found unsuspected treatable tumors in Li-Fraumeni syndrome patients using full-body PET/CT scanning. The study suggests that periodic scans could catch more tumors at a curable stage, but further studies are needed to confirm the benefits and risks.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJAMA·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

IU Health & Wellness: Research and insights from Indiana University

A recent study by Indiana University found that overweight but active men experienced a 24% improvement in vascular function after exercise, compared to a 32% decrease in inactive individuals. The research highlights the importance of daily physical activity in maintaining cardiovascular health, even if weight loss is not immediate.

SourceIndiana University·JournalObesity·DateMar 18, 2008

Arctic pollution's surprising history

A University of Utah study reveals that polar explorers saw an aerosol 'dry haze' in the late 1800s, likely generated by smelting and coal combustion. The haze was found to contain metallic particles, including vanadium and cobalt, consistent with heavy oil and coal combustion.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateMar 18, 2008

Uric acid may provide early clues to diabetic kidney disease

A study found that elevated uric acid levels can precede significant changes in urine albumin levels, suggesting a potential early sign of diabetic kidney disease. Higher uric acid levels are associated with lower kidney function in patients with type 1 diabetes.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 18, 2008
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.

Solving an avian scourge could also provide benefits to human health

Researchers at Arizona State University are developing a vaccine that targets both Avian Pathogenic E. coli (APEC) and Salmonella, two leading causes of poultry disease and food-borne illness. The project has the potential to provide benefits not only to the poultry industry but also to human health by preventing outbreaks of diseases ...

SourceArizona State University·DateMar 18, 2008