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Science News Archive February 2008 - Page 3


Page 3 of 19

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

'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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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
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.

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

'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
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.

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

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

Breakthrough in plant research

Scientists at the University of Helsinki and the University of California have discovered a gene regulating carbon dioxide uptake and water evaporation in plants. This gene helps develop drought-tolerant crops, addressing climate change's impact on global food production.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature·DateFeb 27, 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.

Overweight Hispanic children shown to have vascular inflammation

A new study found elevated markers of blood vessel inflammation in overweight Hispanic children with normal blood glucose levels, increasing their risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The research highlights the need for obesity prevention strategies tailored to this high-risk population.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetes Care·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.

Detecting bone erosion in arthritic wrists

Researchers used CT and MRI scans to detect bone erosions in RA wrists, finding that CT was more sensitive, but with limitations. The study validates the use of Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) scores for erosion assessment.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateFeb 27, 2008

Race, insurance status affect access to transplantation and kidney disease treatment

Two studies suggest that universal access to healthcare can reduce racial and ethnic barriers to treatment for kidney disease. Minority patients and those on Medicare or with less education had longer dialysis times before being wait-listed, highlighting the need for improved insurance coverage.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 27, 2008

Keystone Programs for Collaborative Discovery Launch at Fox Chase

The initiative aims to bring team-based science to bear on major cancer research questions, integrating expertise and resources to solve the most challenging problems. Twelve proposals were reviewed by an external scientific advisory panel, and four Keystone Programs were awarded $5 million in funding over five years.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateFeb 27, 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.

Polluted prey causes wild birds to change their tune

A new study found that male European starlings exposed to environmental pollutants develop more complex songs, which are preferred by females, and show reduced immune function. The researchers also discovered an enlargement of the brain area controlling song complexity due to estrogen exposure.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 2008

Does artificial intelligence help clinicians to recognize atrophic gastritis with thyroid disease?

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that artificial neural networks can accurately predict thyroid disease in patients with atrophic body gastritis. The analysis of 253 ABG patients revealed a high accuracy rate of 76%, correctly identifying 82% of patients with thyroid disease.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateFeb 26, 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.

From detainee facility to health advocacy center: A new role for Guantanamo?

A new article suggests that the United States government should convert Guantanamo Bay into a biomedical research institute dedicated to combating diseases of poverty. The facility could conduct research on developing new drugs and vaccines, promote clinical research, and serve as a training ground for physicians and scientists.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 26, 2008

Killer military robots pose latest threat to humanity

The development of autonomous robot weapons is a growing concern, with the US DoD planning to spend an estimated $24 billion on unmanned systems technology. Professor Noel Sharkey warns that these robots could become a standard terrorist weapon, replacing suicide bombers.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateFeb 26, 2008

Brain stress system presents possible treatment target for alcohol dependence

Researchers have identified a brain molecule, neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R), that plays a central role in stress-related drinking and may be a potential therapeutic target for alcohol dependence. The study found that blocking NK1R reduced alcohol craving and improved overall wellbeing among individuals with anxiety.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2008

Facial asymmetry persists despite surgery to correct congenital deformity

A recent study led by Hasbro Children's Hospital surgeon Albert Oh found that adults with unilateral coronal synostosis, a type of craniosynostosis, still exhibit facial asymmetry years after corrective surgery. The research used three-dimensional photo technology to measure the faces of patients and found consistent rotation of the no...

SourceLifespan·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 26, 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 method ranks quality of scientific journals by field

A Northwestern University team developed a mathematical method to rank scientific journals according to quality. The rankings will help scientists identify high-impact research papers and facilitate evaluations of researchers' work. The study analyzed citation data from nearly 23 million papers across 200 academic fields.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 2008

Supercomputer unleashes virtual 9.0 megaquake in Pacific Northwest

A team of researchers used a supercomputer-powered virtual earthquake program to calculate realistic simulations of megathrust quakes on the Cascadia Subduction Zone. The simulation found that ground motion could be up to twice as large and duration shaking could last up to five minutes, posing major damage to metropolitan areas like S...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Seismology·DateFeb 26, 2008

New U of C research examines commonly used toxin

A new study by the University of Calgary's Faculty of Kinesiology found that Botulinium type-A toxin (BTX-A) can easily spread to surrounding muscles after injection. This challenges the widely-held belief that BTX-A remains localized to the targeted muscle site.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateFeb 26, 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.

Minimally invasive fibroid treatment fares well in multicenter trial

A multicenter trial found that uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a viable alternative to hysterectomy for women with symptomatic fibroids. After two years, patients who underwent UAE reported health-related quality of life equal to those who had undergone hysterectomy.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateFeb 26, 2008

LSU researchers study coastal community bounce back

LSU researchers are developing an index of coastal community resilience, incorporating economic and environmental factors to educate policymakers on ways to increase resilience in weaker areas. The study aims to provide baseline information for decision-making, using data from 1970-2000.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateFeb 26, 2008

NASA's Swift satellite images a galaxy ablaze with starbirth

The Triangulum Galaxy, located 2.9 million light-years from Earth, is ablaze with starbirth, according to a new image taken by NASA's Swift satellite. The image showcases the galaxy's high spatial resolution, revealing young, hot stars and star-forming gas clouds in unprecedented detail.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 26, 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.

Drug for anemic cancer patients raises risk of death

A Northwestern University study found that cancer patients taking erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) have a 10% increased risk of death compared to those who did not take the drugs. The study's findings suggest that ESAs may stimulate the growth of cancer cells, leading to shorter survival rates.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 26, 2008

Teens with treatment-resistant depression more likely to improve with combination therapy

A recent study published in JAMA found that teenagers with difficult-to-treat depression who switched to another antidepressant medication and added psychotherapy showed significant improvement. The results suggest that a combination approach may be more effective than traditional treatment strategies for adolescents with treatment-res...

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 26, 2008

Breast cancer patients suffer considerable wage losses in first year after diagnosis

A study of 829 Canadian women diagnosed with early breast cancer found that they lost an average of 27% of their typical income during the first 12 months after diagnosis. The researchers also discovered that wage losses were more common among less educated women, those with more serious disease, and those with less social support.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 26, 2008

Penn researchers engineer first system of human nerve-cell tissue

Researchers at Penn have engineered living human nerve cells into a network that can be transplanted to repair damaged nerves. The three-dimensional neural network, created through the stretch growth technique, maintained its geometry and function after transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateFeb 26, 2008

Brain activity linked to the parental instinct

Research published in PLOS ONE found that the medial orbitofrontal cortex is highly specifically active within a seventh of a second in response to infant faces but not to adult faces. This finding has potentially important clinical application in relation to postnatal depression.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 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.

Spread of bird flu strains slowed at some borders

Researchers analyzed genetic sequences of influenza A H5N1 virus to understand its migration patterns. The study showed that certain provinces in southern China and neighboring countries shared evolutionary history with the virus.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 2008

Researchers identify and shut down protein that fuels ovarian cancer

A protein called interleukin-8 (IL-8) promotes tumor growth and angiogenesis in ovarian cancer. Researchers have identified IL-8 as a therapeutic target and tested short interfering RNA (siRNA) to silence its production, reducing tumor size by attacking its blood supply.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 26, 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.

Centuries-old Maya Blue mystery finally solved

Researchers from Wheaton College and The Field Museum discovered how the ancient Maya created the renowned blue pigment Maya Blue. They found that the pigment was produced through a ritual combination of indigo, palygorskite, and copal incense, which was then used in sacrificial ceremonies.

SourceField Museum·JournalAntiquity·DateFeb 26, 2008

Combination vaccine protects monkeys from ebola and Marburg viruses

A combination vaccine using virus-like particles (VLPs) provides complete protection against Ebola and Marburg viruses in monkeys. This innovative approach has the potential to offer broad-based immunity and is considered a leading candidate for use as a filovirus vaccine in humans.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateFeb 26, 2008

Other highlights in the Feb. 26 JNCI

A large randomized trial of personalized interventions found that two behavioral interventions did not significantly increase regular mammograms in female veterans. The study's findings support the generalizability to the US female population, which has seen a decline in mammography rates. Meanwhile, another study suggests that viral D...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 26, 2008

Bacterial 'battle for survival' leads to new antibiotic

Scientists at MIT have discovered a new type of antibiotic produced by Rhodococcus bacteria in response to a competing strain. The antibiotic, rhodostreptomycin, shows promise in treating Helicobacter pylori-caused stomach ulcers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 26, 2008
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.