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Science News Archive 2008


Page 202 of 240

Early to bed early to rise ... depends on the TV schedule in your time zone

A recent study published in the Journal of Labor Economics found that television schedules have a larger impact on people's daily routines than natural daylight patterns. The research reveals that Americans' sleep and work patterns are shaped by artificial time zones and TV broadcast schedules, rather than the sun's cues.

Sun's corona is both hot and kinky

Scientists at University of Warwick argue that Alfvén waves, thought to superheat the Corona, are actually kink waves, a bending of the magnetic field. This reinterpretation throws doubt on previous research and leaves the question of the Corona's extreme heat unresolved.

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.

Low micro-RNA level linked to high gene activity in AML

Researchers found a link between low microRNA levels and high gene activity in AML, suggesting new therapeutic targets. The study identified two genes in the Hox family that are over-active in leukemia cells, providing new insights into AML treatment.

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.

U of I scientists aim to overcome allergic reactions to soy

Two University of Illinois studies show that fermenting soy reduces its potential allergenicity by up to 99 percent. The process also increases the number of essential amino acids in soy products, making them a healthy choice for consumers. Researchers aim to develop nutritious and hypoallergenic soy products.

Rock: Electrons run through it

Scientists have discovered that a chunk of hematite can conduct electrons when exposed to the right chemical conditions. This phenomenon, linked to mineral surfaces, has important implications for understanding soil evolution and environmental cleanup. The discovery challenges long-held assumptions about electron conduction in minerals.

Researchers discover the structural alphabet of RNA

Researchers at the University of Montreal developed a new approach to model RNA structure by using a structural alphabet. This innovation allows for more accurate predictions of RNA 3D structures from sequence data, with implications for studying RNA viruses and identifying microRNAs.

State, UH teaming up to reduce (ob)noxious air emissions

The University of Houston's Texas Diesel Testing and Research Center will test technologies to reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by over 80% in the state, enabling compliance with federal air quality guidelines. The facility also plans to provide laboratory space for third-party companies to test their technologies.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Story ideas from Molecular and Cellular Proteomics

Researchers have developed novel approaches to analyze proteins in human saliva and diseased heart tissue, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses of heart disease and oral cancer. By tracking changes in protein profiles over time, scientists may identify key biomarkers for therapeutic intervention.

Immunization instead of medication to control blood pressure

A phase IIa trial found that vaccination against angiotensin II reduced mean daytime blood pressure by -9.0/-4.0 mm Hg in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension. The authors propose a few injections per year as an alternative to traditional medication, potentially improving treatment adherence.

Move over Galileo, it's Science 2.0

Researchers at the University of Maryland are applying a new approach, Science 2.0, which integrates hypothesis-based inquiry with social science methods to study human use of computers and digital networks. This method aims to improve applications in homeland security, medical care, and the environment.

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.

Quasicrystal mystery unraveled with computer simulation

Scientists at University of Michigan used computer simulations to understand how quasicrystals form intricate patterns without rearranging atoms. This breakthrough could lead to new materials with improved properties, such as resistance to wear and corrosion.

NIST 'quantum logic clock' rivals mercury ion as world's most accurate clock

The NIST quantum logic clock uses an aluminum atom to apply computer logic to the quantum world, rivaling the mercury ion's accuracy and offering a new approach to measuring fundamental constants. The clocks were compared with record precision, allowing scientists to measure their relative frequencies to 17 digits.

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.

Breakthrough in birth-defect research

Researchers at the University of Manchester have successfully treated mice with Treacher Collins syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, by preventing premature cell death. The breakthrough could lead to early treatment of at-risk babies in the womb.

Increasing food quality risks are affecting global food supply chain

A study highlights the challenges posed by global food sourcing, including contamination and non-compliance with laws and standards, necessitating a new approach to quality management. The '6Ts' framework proposes robust solutions, focusing on traceability, transparency, testability, time, trust, and training.

Large binocular telescope achieves first binocular light

The Large Binocular Telescope on Mount Graham achieved its first binocular light using twin side-by-side 8.4-meter primary mirrors, showcasing the telescope's power and clarity. The images reveal details of the spiral galaxy NGC 2770, including newly formed hot stars and older, cooler stars.

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.

Smoking is major risk factor for stroke in China

A large-scale study published in the American Heart Association rapid access journal report found that cigarette smoking is a significant predictor of stroke in Chinese men. Researchers analyzed data from over 170,000 participants and found that smokers were 2-3 times more likely to suffer an ischemic stroke compared to never-smokers.

Giant panda genome to be sequenced

The International Giant Panda Genome Project aims to sequence and assemble the giant panda's draft genome within six months. The project will aid in understanding the genetic and biological underpinnings of this unique species, informing conservation efforts and advancing sequencing technology.

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.

Chronically elevated blood sugar levels disable 'fasting switch'

Chronic hyperglycemia disables the molecular switch that normally shuts off glucose production in the liver, leading to insulin resistance and complications. Inhibiting the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway may provide a new therapeutic target for lowering glucose levels and reducing long-term diabetes complications.

Function of molecular switch pinpointed in severe congenital neutropenia

Researchers have identified the molecular mechanics behind Severe Congenital Neutropenia (SCN), a deadly disease characterized by a deficiency of neutrophils. The discovery of GFI1's role in regulating neutrophil development has provided new avenues for understanding the molecular basis of SCN.

'Smart money' identifies superior mutual funds

Research by Aneel Keswani and David Stolin found that investors consistently choose funds with better future performance. The study employed British data from 1991 to 2000 and U.S. data during the same period, revealing a smart money effect in both markets.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

When the chips are down -- soak them!

Researchers found that pre-soaking potatoes can reduce acrylamide formation by up to 23-48%, depending on soaking time and frying color. The study suggests this simple measure may reduce health risks associated with acrylamide consumption.

London School of Hygiene celebrates new $59 million Gates funding

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine has been awarded grant funding to develop new treatments for malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. The $59 million investment will support research initiatives, including a co-ordinated programme to optimize combination drug treatment for malaria in Africa and Asia.

Rusty worms in the brain

Researchers found that transferrin protein aggregates into wormlike fibrils, releasing rust-like iron particles. These particles may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases by forming toxic free radicals and destroying nerve cells.

Mars and Venus are surprisingly similar

The Mars Express and Venus Express spacecraft reveal that the two planets' atmospheres are stripped away into space due to solar wind interactions. The similarity in magnetic field structure between the two planets suggests a shared ionosphere density at high altitudes.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Mother-daughter conflict, low serotonin level may be deadly combination

New University of Washington research suggests that negative mother-daughter relationships and low serotonin levels in adolescents may be linked to self-harming behaviors. The study found that these two factors combined account for 64% of the difference between adolescents who engage in self-harming behaviors and those who do not.

Hibernation-like behavior in Antarctic fish -- on ice for winter

Scientists discovered an Antarctic fish species that enters a dormant state similar to hibernation to conserve energy during the long winter. The study showed that the fish reduces its metabolic rate even when seawater temperature doesn't decrease, suggesting alternative drivers for this behavior.

Nanorings

Scientists have developed a method to produce rigid DNA nanorings with a tailored gap, allowing for the incorporation of functional molecules. The rings can be equipped with desired properties, such as anchors that precisely bind them to other components.

Secrets of cooperation between trees and fungi revealed

The genetic code of the Laccaria bicolor fungus has been fully sequenced, revealing new insights into its symbiotic relationship with trees. The study identifies key genes that facilitate nutrient uptake and protect against parasites, while also enabling communication between the fungus and tree.

Study finds bacteria may reduce risk for kidney stones

Researchers have discovered a link between the bacteria Oxalobacter formigenes and a reduced risk of recurrent kidney stones. The study found that O. formigenes can metabolize oxalate, reducing the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation by up to 70%.

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 sheds light on excessive drinking among the elderly

A new study from Brandeis University reveals that 1 in 10 elderly adults on Medicare consume more alcohol than recommended, with 9% engaging in unhealthy drinking habits. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to be aware of this often-missed issue and consider individual factors when assessing risk.

Scientists identify origin of hiss in upper atmosphere

Researchers at UCLA have solved a 40-year-old puzzle by identifying the source of intense radio waves in the Earth's upper atmosphere that control the dynamics of the Van Allen radiation belts. The chorus wave type is found to energize electrons and was initially thought unrelated to hiss.

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.

New method to estimate sea ice thickness

Scientists developed a new model to estimate sea ice thickness, using historical observations and environmental data analysis. The study shows that average ice thickness and total ice volume fluctuated together during the early period, peaking in the late 1980s before declining until the mid-1990s.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Gladstone scientists identify role of tiny RNAs in controlling stem cell fate

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified two microRNAs, miR-1 and miR-133, which play a crucial role in controlling the differentiation of pluripotent embryonic stem cells into cardiac muscle. These findings provide insight into fine-tuning cellular processes and may lead to new treatments for heart-related diseases.

Pacemaker tune-up works chemical wonders on damaged hearts in dogs

Researchers found that pacemakers not only mechanically correct irregular heartbeats but also produce chemical changes that benefit the heart muscle. Studies in dogs with congestive heart failure showed significant improvements in protein levels and activity, reducing cell death and fibrosis.

Leukemia therapy with imatinib during pregnancy may cause infant abnormalities

A study suggests that expectant women treated with imatinib for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) may be at moderate risk of developing fetal abnormalities. The majority of pregnancies resulted in normal live infants, but some were born with congenital abnormalities, including exomphalos, renal agenesis, and hemivertebrae.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Secondhand smoke a risk for children worldwide

A global study found that 82 percent of parents who smoked reported smoking around their children, exposing them to high levels of secondhand smoke. Hair nicotine levels were detected in 78 percent of children living with a smoker and 59 percent without, highlighting the need for improved public awareness.

Cellular construction methods emulated

The Dutch team used two types of self-aggregating compounds: surfactants and gelators. They formed aggregates that coexisted without interfering with each other, resulting in complex structures with separate compartments. This orthogonal self-aggregation enables the creation of versatile compartmentalized systems.

New technique takes a big step in examination of small structures

Researchers have achieved images of a virus in detail two times greater than previously achieved using single-particle electron cryomicroscopy. This breakthrough provides valuable information for developing disease treatments and allows for the study of tiny biological machines found throughout our bodies.

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.

UCLA researchers find blood stem cells originate and are nurtured in the placenta

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about the origin of blood stem cells, finding that they are generated in the placenta. The study's findings may allow for the growth of blood stem cells in cell culture, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases like leukemia and aplastic anemia. By understanding how blood stem ...