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Science News Archive July 2008


Page 7 of 20

Bovine tuberculosis in wildlife threatens endangered lynx and cattle health

A study published in PLOS ONE found that bovine tuberculosis is prevalent among wild boar, red deer, and fallow deer in Doñana National Park, threatening the health of endangered lynx and domestic cattle. The high prevalence suggests that a feeding ban alone would have limited effect on controlling the disease.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Over-the-counter anesthetic gel puts the squeeze on mammogram pain

A new study finds that a topical application of 4% lidocaine gel significantly reduces breast discomfort during mammography. Women who received the gel reported less pain and were more likely to undergo regular screening, with 88% indicating they would definitely get a mammogram the following year.

Serious school failure turns out to be a real bummer for girls, but not boys

Researchers found that adolescent girls who experienced serious school failures were significantly more likely to develop depression by age 21 compared to their male counterparts. The study also revealed that early conduct problems in elementary school increased the risk of depression in early adulthood for girls, but not boys.

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.

End of life physician-patient communication

A study found that physician-patient communication training using the Four Habits Model can have a positive impact on the delivery of end-of-life care. The training increased professional satisfaction among physicians and enhanced their ability to express condolences, advance care planning discussions, and manage family emotions.

Commercial bees spreading disease to wild pollinating bees

New research reveals that commercial bees are infecting and spreading diseases to wild pollinators, contributing to declining pollinator populations. The study found that commercially produced bumble bees carry a harmful pathogen that can be transmitted to wild bees at flowers.

Checking more lymph nodes linked to cancer patient survival

A new study from Northwestern University found that cancer patients treated at high-volume hospitals have more lymph nodes examined for cancer spread, leading to improved long-term outcomes. This increased nodal evaluation can accurately diagnose stage disease and predict patient prognosis.

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.

Biology enters 'The Matrix' through new computer language

Researchers have developed a computational language called Little b that can assemble complex models of proteins and their interactions with DNA. By incorporating principles of engineering, the program allows for modularity and abstraction, enabling scientists to build upon existing models and refine them in new ways.

Measuring the stress of forested areas

Researchers at the University of the Basque Country study plants' defence mechanisms to predict photo-oxidative stress. They discover antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids, which help protect plants from excessive light, and identify new cycles like the lutein epoxide cycle.

Age-old magic tricks can provide clues for modern science

Researchers analyzed ancient magic tricks to gain insights into human psychology, revealing the power of misdirection and illusion in shaping our perceptions. The study's findings have long-term implications for fields like human-computer interfaces, where understanding attention and perception is crucial.

Identification of protein able to stimulate production of T-cells

Researchers at the University of Montreal identified Wnt4 protein as a stimulator of T-cell production, reversing age-related immune system decline. Elevated Wnt4 levels increase T cell progenitors and immature T cells in the thymus, improving immune response to infections.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Teamwork cuts out unnecessary biopsies, researchers find

New research from Saint Louis University found that combining nuclear medicine clinicians and treating physicians to interpret PET-CT scans reduces false positive results by 51%, resulting in fewer unnecessary biopsies. This collaboration improves scan accuracy, sparring patients from painful and potentially catastrophic complications.

Parasitic worm infections increase susceptibility to AIDS viruses

A recent study published in PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that parasitic worm infections can increase the risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS. The study showed that rhesus macaques with acute schistosomiasis were more susceptible to an HIV-like virus, with higher peak viral loads and memory cell concentrations.

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.

'Stuffy nose' mouse: A promise to help treat 31 million with sinusitis

Researchers have developed a genetically engineered mouse model of chronic sinusitis, which mimics the disease's symptoms and provides a new tool for studying and treating the condition. The 'stuffy nose' mice suffer from reversible loss of smell due to inflammation, offering hope for developing new therapies.

No need for gene screens in breast cancer families

A recent study published in BMC Cancer reveals that a family history of breast cancer does not significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease at an early age. The research suggests that applying strict screening criteria can help reduce unnecessary testing and alleviate psychological harm.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

How carrots help us see the color orange

Researchers used different hues of orange and yellow on various objects to examine color perception and constancy. Participants redefined colors based on their knowledge of object colors, not just the hue.

Sugar study is sweetener for stem cell science

Scientists investigate how cells make different sugar types and test theories on how sugars influence cell behavior. They aim to develop new ways to instruct cells to behave in particular ways, potentially leading to therapies for heart disease and nerve damage.

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.

It takes nerves for flies to keep a level head

Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered the key nerve connections that enable flies to maintain a steady gaze while flying and responding to obstacles. This finding could lead to improvements in technical control systems for autonomous air vehicles.

Malaria control goals are likely to be unachievable

Research finds that international malaria financing is insufficient to achieve the goal of halving the global burden of malaria by 2015. Funding commitments are largely tied to stable P. falciparum risk, leaving countries with high but low-risk populations poorly supported.

Scientists identify how gastric reflux may trigger asthma

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that inhaling stomach fluid can drive the development of asthma by altering the immune system's response. This study suggests chronic micro-aspiration of gastric fluid may be a key factor in linking GERD and asthma, offering new directions for treatment options.

Mangroves key to saving lives

Low-budget, locally led mangrove replanting projects are more successful than high-cost government-led projects, achieving survival rates of up to 97%. Planting the correct species in suitable sites and community involvement are key to ecological benefits.

Study examines motivations for tattoo removal

A study published in Archives of Dermatology found that women are more likely to remove their tattoos due to social stigma and embarrassment, with 69% of participants being women. The study also revealed that societal support for women with tattoos is limited, leading to increased dissatisfaction with their tattoos over time.

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.

Malaria Millennium Development Goal 'unlikely to be met'

According to a report by Professor Bob Snow, funding for malaria control is severely inadequate, with many countries receiving less than $0.50 per person at risk. The research highlights regional disparities and shortfalls in funding, particularly in South East Asia and the Western Pacific regions.

Nanotechnology: Learning from past mistakes

The study applies the 12 'late lessons from early warnings' to nanotechnology, concluding that industry and government are repeating past mistakes. The authors call for improved risk research strategies, stakeholder engagement, and a more holistic approach to ensure the safe development of emerging nanotechnologies.

New evidence of battle between humans and ancient virus

Researchers found evidence that humans fought back against an ancient retrovirus with a defense mechanism called APOBEC3G, which is still used to attack modern retroviruses. This discovery provides insight into the evolutionary battle between humans and viruses.

Gene panel predicts lung cancer survival, study finds

A gene expression test could help determine which patients need more aggressive treatment, improving lung cancer survival rates. The study used a large dataset of lung cancer tissue samples to analyze hundreds of genes and predict patient outcomes.

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.

A phonon floodgate in monolayer carbon

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have discovered an unexpected gap-like feature in graphene's energy spectrum, attributed to phonon interactions. This finding opens new possibilities for graphene nanodevices and applications.

A virtual toothache helps student dentists

A new research project at Case Western Reserve University is developing simulated experiences for dental students to practice communicating with patients. The virtual scenarios aim to revolutionize dental education and national testing for patient-side communication skills.

Memory impairment associated with sound processing disorder

Researchers found a significant association between mild memory impairment and impaired central auditory processing. Individuals with mild memory impairment showed lower scores on central auditory processing tests, indicating difficulty managing competing signals.

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.

Pond scum could be key to new cancer therapies

Scientists are using cyanobacteria and plant materials to identify anticancer lead compounds that may be more effective than current treatments. The goal is to develop naturally occurring substances that target key cellular targets such as the proteasome and histone deacetylase.

Study outlines measures to limit effects of pandemic flu on nursing homes

Researchers developed mathematical models to determine effective non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) for protecting vulnerable populations in nursing homes. The study found that conventional NPIs can curb mild outbreaks, but higher-level restrictions are needed for severe ones. Staff plays a critical role in controlling disease spr...

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.

Amazon powers tropical ocean's carbon sink

A multi-year study reveals that nutrients from the Amazon River spread beyond the continental shelf and drive carbon capture in the deep ocean. Diazotrophs, which pull nitrogen and carbon from the air, offset respiration in tropical oceans, making them a significant carbon sink.

MIT identifies cells for spinal-cord repair

Researchers at MIT have pinpointed stem cells in the spinal cord that can be persuaded to differentiate into healing cells and reduce scarring. This could lead to a new non-surgical treatment for debilitating spinal-cord injuries affecting 30,000 people worldwide.

Teaching in a disruptive classroom

A college biology teacher found that by addressing student misbehavior directly, he was able to improve classroom attention and engagement. The study suggests that simply being direct with students can resolve problems and encourage cooperation.

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.

Study: Common wisdom about troubled youth falls apart when race considered

A new study published in Journal of Marital and Family Therapy found that African-American youth exhibit similar levels of externalizing and internalizing behavior once family dysfunction is accounted for. The research suggests that family issues affect children in African-American families differently than they do in white families.

Chinese earthquake provides lessons for future

Researchers used topographic analysis to identify active faults in the Sichuan earthquake, which can help refine existing maps of earthquake risk. This approach can shed light on blind and hidden faults in remote mountainous areas.

MIT researchers offer glimpse of rare mutant cells

Researchers at MIT have developed an imaging system that allows them to pinpoint the number and location of mutant cells in intact tissue. The study found that over 90% of cells with mutations were within clusters, suggesting that most mutations are inherited from another cell.

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.