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Science News Archive 2008 - Page 207


Page 207 of 240

First look: Princeton researchers peek into deepest recesses of human brain

Researchers from Princeton University have developed a new experimental technique to study brainstem activity in humans, tracking changes in blood flow associated with dopamine levels. The findings provide critical insights into the role of brain chemicals in neuropsychiatric disorders such as addiction and Parkinson's disease.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008

Capturing sunlight

Researchers have developed a new type of solar cell that uses indoline dye and ionic liquid to improve efficiency. The cells achieve an energy conversion yield of 7.2%, a record for this type of cell, and could potentially lead to more affordable renewable energy.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 28, 2008

Electronic structure of DNA revealed for 1st time by Hebrew University and collaborating researchers

Researchers have revealed the electronic structure of single DNA molecules, shedding light on their electronic properties and potential use in nanotechnology. The discovery has significant implications for understanding DNA damage and repair mechanisms, as well as the development of new DNA decoding technologies.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 28, 2008

Dirty space and supernovae

Researchers at Carnegie Institution find unusual new form of carbon in meteorites, which could affect measurements of the universe's expansion and dark energy models. The discovery may have implications for understanding Type1a supernovae and the accelerating expansion of the universe.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Has the mystery of the Antarctic ice sheet been solved?

A team of scientists from Cardiff University presents new temperature records using ancient sea floor mud, revealing that ocean temperatures cooled during the growth of an ice sheet, matching climate model simulations. The findings help resolve a long-standing puzzle regarding ice-sheet growth versus global cooling.

SourceCardiff University·JournalGeology·DateFeb 28, 2008

Study examines how men and women view marital and parental time pressures

A recent study published in the Journal of Family Issues found that only about one-fifth of employed men and women are completely satisfied with their marital and parental time pressures. Dr. Susan Roxburgh's research highlights the differing expectations of men and women when it comes to balancing work, family, and personal life.

SourceKent State University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateFeb 28, 2008

Suicide rates among young Scottish men fall by over 40 percent

A study published in BMC Public Health found a 42% reduction in suicide rates among 15-29 year old men in Scotland between 2000 and 2004. The decline is attributed to a decrease in hangings as a means of suicide, with other methods such as poisoning becoming more prevalent.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 28, 2008

Autoantibodies and neuropsychiatric events in lupus

A global research alliance found associations between anti-ribosomal P antibodies and psychosis, as well as lupus anticoagulant and cerebrovascular disease in SLE patients. The study identified potential biomarkers for neuropsychiatric events, but future studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateFeb 28, 2008

What caused westward expansion in the United States?

A new study by University of Southern California economist Guillaume Vandenbroucke reveals that the decrease in transportation costs and population growth were key drivers of US Westward Expansion. The study found that technological innovation played a significant role in reducing transportation costs, leading to an increase in land ac...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalInternational Economic Review·DateFeb 28, 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.

Maternal love: How a mother's brain responds to her infant

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry reveals that mothers' brains show distinct activation patterns when identifying their own infant's cries versus those of other infants. This unique response is thought to be biologically meaningful for successful infant care.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 28, 2008

Major mid-century influenza epidemics caused by novel hybrid viruses

Researchers found that genetic reassortment events led to the creation of new hybrid viruses in humans during severe influenza epidemics in 1947 and 1951. This challenges the standard model of human influenza virus evolution, suggesting a more complex co-circulation of multiple forms of the same strain.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 28, 2008
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.

Nature's helpers: Using microorganisms to remove TCE from water

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered microorganisms that can convert the chlorinated solvent TCE into ethene, a harmless product. Using membrane biofilm reactors, these organisms were able to remove TCE from water efficiently and effectively, making them a promising tool for cleaning up contaminated groundwater.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 2008

Seafloor cores show tight bond between dust and past climates

A new study using seafloor cores has found a strong correlation between dust and past climates, suggesting that atmospheric moisture and dust move in tandem with temperature changes. This discovery may inform current ideas to seed oceans with iron-rich dust to mitigate global warming.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008

Low-intensity exercise reduces fatigue symptoms by 65 percent, study finds

A new study found that regular low-intensity exercise can significantly reduce fatigue symptoms and increase energy levels by 20 percent in sedentary people. The researchers discovered that low-intensity exercise is more effective than moderate-intensity exercise in reducing fatigue, with a 65 percent reduction compared to 49 percent.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPsychotherapy and Psychosomatics·DateFeb 28, 2008
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.

Cancer-related protein may play key role in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at USF Health found that Akt protein can influence tau protein, leading to nerve cell death in Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests regulating Akt levels may be beneficial for treating diseases of aging, including cancer and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2008

Complex interventions can help elderly people live safely and independently

A systematic review found that complex interventions, such as preventive home visits and community-based care, improved physical function and reduced the need for nursing home care in elderly people. The meta-analysis also showed a reduction in hospital admissions and falls, with benefits evident in studies started before 1993.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 28, 2008
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.

New research indicates that a common heart drug

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine discovered that diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker, disrupts the connection between dopamine and glutamate in the brain, driving cocaine cravings. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms of cocaine addiction and potential strategies for developing effective treatments.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 27, 2008

Does gingko biloba affect memory?

A three-year study found that taking ginkgo biloba extract did not clearly reduce the risk of developing memory problems. However, people who reliably took the supplement had a lower risk of mild memory issues compared to those on placebo.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 27, 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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New blood marker may predict prostate cancer spread

A new blood biomarker has been discovered that enables accurate prediction of prostate cancer metastasis. The biomarker, endoglin, measures plasma levels associated with an increased risk of cancer spread into regional lymph nodes. Adding this marker to current methods improves accuracy from 89.4% to 97.8%.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 27, 2008

Scientists look at 'syringe' assembly in plague bacteria

Researchers have found that the YscJ lipoprotein component determines the location of a key injection device in plague bacteria. This discovery sheds light on how Yersinia pestis causes the bubonic plague and could lead to new treatments.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobiology·DateFeb 27, 2008

Chewing gum -- the new post-operative medicine

Researchers have discovered that chewing gum stimulates smooth muscle fibers and salivary gland secretion, aiding in bowel movement recovery after surgery. The study involved 102 patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery, with those who chewed gum experiencing faster recovery times.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalUrology·DateFeb 27, 2008
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.

Guide provides insight into urban forestry benefits

The latest guide from USDA Forest Service highlights energy conservation as the most significant benefit of urban trees in temperate interior West. A mature hardwood tree can bring annual savings of $40 in electricity and $15 in heating costs, while reducing power plant emissions.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·DateFeb 27, 2008

U of Minn researchers find primary alcohol prevention programs are needed for 'tweens'

A University of Minnesota study suggests that adolescents who use alcohol are less receptive to prevention programs, highlighting the need for earlier intervention. The researchers recommend a prevention program prior to sixth grade with parent involvement to delay alcohol use and provide tweens with skills to refuse alcohol.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateFeb 27, 2008

Neurons use chemical 'chords' to shape signaling

Neurons can modulate nerve impulses by releasing two neurotransmitters that target the same receptor, accelerating inhibition and enhancing temporal resolution of inhibition. This finding may represent a new way the brain precisely controls nerve impulses in its circuitry.

SourceCell Press·DateFeb 27, 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.

Women's greater role in nation-building

The study reveals that women's participation in nation-building leads to greater economic development, social advancements, and reduced violence. Incorporating women into the nation-building process early on can help create more democratic and stable societies.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateFeb 27, 2008

Joslin study finds restricting insulin doses increases mortality risk

A new study by Joslin Diabetes Center found that restricting insulin doses in women with type 1 diabetes is associated with a three-fold increased risk of death and higher rates of disease complications. The study also highlighted the connection between insulin restriction and eating disorder symptoms, often referred to as diabulimia.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateFeb 27, 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.

'2-faced' particles act like tiny submarines

Scientists at North Carolina State University have developed Janus particles, microscopic spheres with different material properties on either side, which can move and respond to changes in their environment. The phenomenon, called induced-charge electrophoresis, has potential applications in microactuators, sensors, and drug delivery.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 27, 2008

Inverted DNA turns quiet developmental gene into a potent driver of t-cell lymphoma

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have discovered that a genetic misalignment can turn a normally quiet developmental gene into a potent driver of T-cell lymphoma in adult mice. The study found that the Dlx5 protein, which is not typically active in healthy adult cells, can be targeted for inhibition to slow cancer growth.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 27, 2008

UCLA researchers solve decade-old mystery

Researchers at UCLA have solved a decades-old mystery in hydrogen gas storage, enabling the creation of more efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. The study found that adding titanium to sodium alanate can store high-density hydrogen at reasonable pressures and temperatures.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2008

Why juniper trees can live on less water

Junipers' adaptation to avoid 'cavitation' allows them to withstand dry conditions, while their low specific leaf area enables them to conserve water. This study reveals the key structural features behind juniper trees' exceptional drought tolerance.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateFeb 27, 2008
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.

New drug targets for preventing cell death

Researchers have identified a new compound that blocks an early step in programmed cell death, known as apoptosis. This process is triggered by mitochondrial division and can lead to cell death during heart attacks and strokes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 27, 2008

Earlier plantings underlie yield gains in northern Corn Belt

In a study published in the Agronomy Journal, Chris Kucharik found that earlier planting dates have contributed significantly to yield gains in the northern Corn Belt states. The study suggests that this land management change has played a major role in increasing production, accounting for 20-50% of the gains since 1979.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateFeb 27, 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.

'Lost' sediments show details of polar magnetic field

UC Davis researchers analyzed sediment cores from the Antarctic Ross Sea, revealing evidence of magnetic field vortices beneath the South Pole. This discovery contrasts with earlier studies at lower latitudes and may improve our understanding of core processes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateFeb 27, 2008

MIT researchers catch rats' twitchy whiskers in action

Rats use their whiskers to perceive shapes and textures, with high-speed video revealing detailed patterns of movements. The researchers found complex patterns on smooth surfaces and irregular movements on rough surfaces, shedding light on the rat's tactile environment.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 27, 2008

Exeter scientists pour cold water on EU bird policy

Researchers from the University of Exeter argue that EU conservation policy has failed to protect endangered birds due to flawed data and lack of monitoring. The study's findings challenge previous claims that EU policy had a positive impact on bird conservation, highlighting the need for systematic evaluation of conservation policies.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·DateFeb 27, 2008

UT Knoxville research may lead to better flu vaccine

Researchers from UT Knoxville have made a groundbreaking discovery about memory B cells, which are crucial for fighting off influenza infections. By analyzing where these cells reside after an infection, scientists can develop more effective vaccines that target specific strains and subtypes of the flu virus.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 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.

New research suggests biofuel blending is often inaccurate

A study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers found that retail biofuel samples often do not contain the advertised amount of biofuel. The actual percentage of biofuel in blends like B20 ranged from 10 to 74 percent, while only 10% met US Department of Defense standards.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 27, 2008