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Science News Archive 2008


Page 222 of 240

Gotta have heart!

Crocodilians divert blood through a special vessel called the left aorta to bypass their lungs during digestion. This unique system enables them to secrete gastric acid at an unprecedented rate, facilitating digestion and survival. By shunting CO2-rich blood straight to the stomach, crocodilians maintain optimal digestive conditions.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Feb. 5, 2008, issue

Localized prostate cancer treatment options face uncertainty due to limited evidence. Gene expression tests for breast cancer hold promise but require further data on benefits and limitations. New HIV treatment guidelines suggest earlier initiation may increase life expectancy for younger patients. Pregnant women should not be screened...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

No link between MMR jab and autism spectrum disorders

A recent study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood finds no association between the MMR vaccine and autism spectrum disorders, contradicting previous research. The study analyzed blood samples from nearly 250 children with autism, as well as comparison groups without autism or special educational needs.

Team develops energy-efficient microchip

The new chip design can be up to 10 times more energy-efficient than present technology, leading to longer-lasting cell phones, implantable medical devices, and sensors.

Microneedles enhance drug administration through skin

Researchers demonstrated that microneedle patches can deliver clinically-relevant doses of drugs like naltrexone, reducing side effects and required dosage. The study also found lower production of metabolites, which may cause adverse reactions.

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.

Rheumatoid arthritis sends many into early retirement

A new study reveals that rheumatoid arthritis results in significant economic impact due to early retirement, with up to two-thirds of costs outside the healthcare sector. Patient access to disease-modifying biologic drugs is limited, particularly in Western Europe.

Kilogram quantities at last!

Researchers at the University of Leipzig successfully produce kilogram quantities of isocitric acid from sunflower oil using a combination of biotechnology and chemical steps. This achievement opens up new avenues for synthesizing complex natural products and chiral building blocks.

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.

Small bit of a CMOS chip holds 2-D through-the-walls radar imager

A team of researchers from the University of Southern California has developed a novel 49-pixel probe-and-camera system that can create a 2D through-the-walls radar imager using a small CMOS chip. This technology has potential applications in medical imaging, emergency rescue missions, and security monitoring devices.

Screening for domestic violence woefully weak in welfare offices

A University of Washington study found that case workers rarely screen for domestic violence, often failing to identify victims or provide necessary services. Researchers recommend a cultural shift in welfare organizations to prioritize screening and supporting vulnerable clients.

Lower transmission increases dengue deaths

Researchers found that lower transmission rates increase dengue deaths by reducing the development of immunity to new strains during a critical cross-immunity period. This allows the virus to gain entry into cells and cause more severe infections.

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.

Communing with nature less and less

Researchers found a significant decline in per capita visits to U.S. national parks since the late 1980s, correlating with an increase in sedentary activities like video gaming and watching movies. This shift, known as 'videophilia,' has far-reaching consequences for physical and mental health, particularly in children.

Trainor Lab prevents rare birth defect by inactivating p53 gene

The Trainor Lab has demonstrated that inactivating the p53 gene can prevent Treacher Collins Syndrome, a rare craniofacial disorder. By inhibiting the p53 protein or inactivating the gene, neural crest cells can survive and form normal craniofacial structures.

2 genes found to play crucial role in cell survival

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered two genes, E2F7 and E2F8, that play a vital role in preventing massive cell death in developing embryos. The study shows that these genes suppress the activity of another gene, E2f1, which is involved in triggering programmed cell death.

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.

For treating advanced Parkinson's, new research points to serotonin

Researchers found that manipulating serotonin receptors can block L-DOPA-induced side effects in advanced Parkinson's disease. The discovery suggests a new approach for developing treatments for this disorder, which is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's.

'Smart' holograms help patients help themselves

Smart holograms can detect changes in blood-glucose levels, adrenaline levels, and other chemical imbalances, enabling patients to monitor their health more effectively. This new technology has wide applicability in various fields, including diabetes management, security, and smart packaging systems.

Big Mac: The whole world on your plate

Researchers examined over 7,000 plant species in the human diet, finding that humans consume a remarkably high number of plant families. A study of a McDonald's Big Mac meal revealed approximately 20 different species and ingredients originating from around the world.

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 linked to sleep disturbances

Research shows that cigarette smoking is associated with restless sleep and reduced deep sleep hours, as well as increased light sleep. The study suggests that nicotine withdrawal may contribute to these disturbances, particularly in the early stages of sleep.

Freshwater fish invasions the result of human activity

A new study reveals that human economic activity is a primary driver of invasive fish species in rivers and lakes. The research found no correlation between native species and invasive species, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems.

Women take almost 50 percent more short-term sick leave than men

Middle-aged women in Finland took almost 50% more short-term sick leave than their male counterparts, with physical health problems and work fatigue being key contributors. The researchers suggest that women may be better at recognizing problems and seeking medical treatment.

Model found to determine cause, possible treatment of nerve tumors

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have developed a mouse model that helps unravel the cause of fibrous, non-cancerous nerve tumors called neurofibromas. The model provides insights into the biological mechanisms underlying tumor formation and serves as a platform for therapeutic testing.

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.

Resisting lung cancer recurrence

A vaccine booster has been shown to induce a persistent immune response against lung cancer, reducing the risk of recurrence. The study found that patients who received regular recall injections experienced improved immunological memory, which can be strengthened with additional vaccinations.

Public support for use of human tissue in research has gone up

A study found that public support for using human tissue in research has risen over the past decade, despite adverse publicity surrounding previous incidents. The survey revealed that 96% of patients are in favour of their tissue being used for medical research, while 92% are happy to see it used to train medical students.

Use of patient restraints reduced through use of consultation program

A new study published in Perspectives in Psychiatric Care shows that a psychiatric consultation team working closely with hospital staff led to the elimination of patient restraints for those with mental and developmental disabilities. The use of restraints was reduced through better communication, support, and staff training.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Gene protects adults abused as children from depression

A recent study found that adults who were abused in childhood and carried a specific gene variant showed lower measures of depression. The gene variant, corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor one (CRHR1), appears to protect against depression in adults who experienced moderate to severe child abuse.

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.

Tipping elements in the Earth's climate system

Researchers identify critical thresholds in climate system components that could trigger drastic changes, such as the melting of Arctic sea-ice and Greenland Ice Sheet. These 'tipping elements' require immediate consideration in international climate politics to prevent potentially catastrophic consequences.

Baboon dads have surprising influence on daughters' fitness

Scientists have found that polygamous baboon fathers who spend time with their children during juvenile years can influence their daughters' fitness. The study, led by Duke University professor Susan Alberts, suggests that fatherly presence can give offspring a jump-start on reproduction, especially among females.

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.

How is that whale listening?

A team of scientists has discovered a new pathway for sound transmission in Cuvier's beaked whales using finite element modeling and computed tomography scanning. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that noise vibrations travel through the lower jaw to reach the ear complex, instead revealing a unique fatty channel.

The neural basis of 'number sense' in young infants

Young infants can detect small changes in the number and identity of objects, and these abilities are processed by distinct neural pathways. The study found that the infant brain responds to both changes in different brain regions, similar to adults.

Birds, bats and insects hold secrets for aerospace engineers

Researchers aim to create flapping-wing aircraft that can hover and perch, like birds and bats, which outperform man-made planes in efficiency. By studying the aerodynamics of natural flyers, engineers hope to develop vehicles capable of performing missions in uncertain environments.

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.

Antiretroviral drugs may protect against sexual transmission of HIV

A new study suggests that antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV can also protect people from getting the AIDS virus, especially when two drugs are taken in combination before exposure to the virus. The best protection was seen in macaques that received a combination of two drugs, with all being protected from infection.

Study finds good outcomes for older lung transplant patients

A new UCLA Medical Center study shows that select patients age 65 and older can safely undergo lung transplantation with acceptable outcomes. The study found similar survival rates between younger and older patients, suggesting that age should not preclude patients from the procedure.

Grapefruit compound may help combat hepatitis C infection

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered that grapefruit compound naringenin can block the secretion of hepatitis C virus from infected cells, a key step in maintaining chronic infection. This finding suggests that combining naringenin with antiviral medication may allow patients to clear the virus from their livers.

Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research receives NHMRC's largest 2009 grant

The Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research in Melbourne received a $20 million NHMRC grant to develop new ways of detecting and treating colon cancer, the most common form of cancer in Australia. The research will focus on five key projects relating to genetic causes, biomarkers, and therapies for colon cancer.

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.

Researchers at Leeds mine the 'Terahertz gap'

The University of Leeds team has secured a £2 million grant to study the changes in behavior and properties of nano-scale systems within the terahertz region. By examining these systems with terahertz radiation, the researchers aim to develop new nano-scale electronic devices for sensing, imaging, and spectroscopy applications.

Bacterium sequenced makes rare form of chlorophyll

Scientists have sequenced the genome of a rare cyanobacterium that produces an even rarer form of chlorophyll, enabling it to harness near-infrared light. This breakthrough could lead to genetically altered plants that can store and generate solar energy, increasing photosynthesis efficiency.

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.

Researchers uncover key interaction in cholesterol regulation

UT Southwestern researchers have determined the specific way in which PCSK9 disrupts LDL receptor activity, leading to increased 'bad' cholesterol levels. By designing targeted antibodies to disrupt this interaction, they aim to develop a new class of drugs to lower cholesterol.

Eye blinks may help to identify children prenatally exposed to alcohol

A new study found that eyeblink conditioning can identify children with probable fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and those without distinctive FAS features. Researchers used eyeblink conditioning in five-year-old children born to mixed-ancestry women, finding a deficit in this area related to prenatal alcohol exposure.

Targeting astrocytes slows disease progression in ALS

In a breakthrough study, targeting astrocytes in mice with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) doubles the lifespan of affected animals. This finding suggests that astrocytes, support cells essential for neuronal function, may be viable targets to slow disease progression and extend life expectancy.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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