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Science News Archive June 2008


Page 18 of 21

New research explores role of serotonin

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that low serotonin levels are associated with increased impulsivity, particularly during social interactions. The study suggests that boosting serotonin levels through diet or therapy may help alleviate symptoms of depression, OCD, and anxiety disorders.

Argonne research unveiling the secrets of nanoparticle haloing

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered the structure of nanoparticle haloing, a new method for stabilizing colloids. The discovery reveals that nanoparticles form a loosely organized layer around microspheres, suggesting a weak attraction between the two, and opens up new possibilities for producing novel materials.

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.

Teenagers attending college less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior

According to a University of Washington study, teenagers attending college are significantly less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior than those who do not attend college. The study found that college students were more likely to always use a condom and less likely to engage in casual sex or high-risk sex.

Blindness caused by trachoma should be eliminated by 2020

Trachoma causes blindness in 84 million people worldwide, but progress has been made since 1995 with a decline from 15% to 4% of global blindness. The SAFE strategy's success is attributed to improved socioeconomic conditions and widespread implementation.

Mountain ranges rise much more rapidly than geologists expected

A new study suggests mountain ranges like the Andes can rise rapidly, doubling their heights in a short period. The traditional theory of plate tectonics will need to be revised to include the process of delamination, which proposes that the 'root' beneath the crust heats up and breaks free, allowing mountains to quickly rise.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tufts researcher leads revision of osteoporosis guidelines

The new Clinician's Guide incorporates the World Health Organization's absolute fracture prediction algorithm (FRAX), increasing the identification of patients at risk for osteoporosis. The guide now applies to men over 50 and post-menopausal non-Caucasian women, including African-Americans, Asians, and Latinas.

Where mathematics and astrophysics meet

Mathematicians Dmitry Khavinson and Genevra Neumann describe how their work on the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra led them to questions in astrophysics, specifically gravitational lensing. Their result resolves a conjecture of Sun Hong Rhie, establishing that the number of zeros of certain rational harmonic functions is 5n - 5.

Regular tipple may curb risk of rheumatoid arthritis

Research published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that moderate alcohol consumption reduces the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis by up to 50%. The study, which involved over 2,750 participants, also highlighted the importance of quitting smoking as a key preventive measure.

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.

Enzyme plays key role in cell fate

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that caspases, known as 'killer enzymes,' play a crucial role in cell differentiation. By manipulating programmed cell death pathways and caspase targets, scientists may be able to revert somatic cells into embryonic stem cell-like states.

Human stem cells show promise against fatal children's diseases

Researchers used human stem cells to repair defective wiring in the brain and spinal cord of mice with a neurological condition similar to fatal childhood diseases. The treatment showed promising results, with four mice appearing completely cured and six living far beyond their usual lifespan.

Simple membranes could have allowed nutrients to pass into primitive cells

Researchers found that simple membranes composed of fatty acids can allow small molecules to pass through, supporting a theory about the first cells' interactions with their environment. The study also confirms the ability of nucleotide molecules to form DNA within vesicles, suggesting a possible way for early cells to replicate.

Brief, intense exercise benefits the heart

Research from McMaster University found that brief, high-intensity sprints improve blood vessel function and structure, similar to traditional long-duration exercise. The study suggests that short bursts of intense exercise can reap the same cardiovascular benefits as longer workouts.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

NASA scientists pioneer method for making giant lunar telescopes

Scientists at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center have developed a novel method for creating massive telescope mirrors on the Moon, utilizing carbon nanotubes and lunar dust. The technique enables the production of highly reflective mirrors with minimal effort and cost, paving the way for giant telescopes up to 50 meters in diameter.

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.

Public funding impacts progress of human embryonic stem cell research

The study found that the UK and Israel produced substantially more research in human embryonic stem cells than other fields. In contrast, Australia showed a modest result due to its mixed policy on stem cell research. The US is still the largest producer of research in this field but lags behind when compared to other similar fields.

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.

Probiotic bacteria protect endangered frogs from lethal skin disease

Research by JMU researchers suggests that adding probiotic bacteria to the skin of mountain yellow-legged frogs can lessen the effects of a lethal skin pathogen. Field studies have also shown that populations with higher proportions of individuals with anti-pathogen bacteria are more likely to survive.

Weather, stomach bugs and climate change: Refining the model

Researchers develop model predicting disease outbreaks based on weather patterns and climate variability. The study shows an association between high temperature and daily incidence of cryptosporidiosis in Massachusetts, highlighting the need for better understanding of how climate affects disease spread.

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.

Data show Antarctic ice stream radiating seismically

Researchers discovered that an Antarctic ice stream radiates seismic waves, similar to earthquakes, due to the 'stick-slip' phenomenon. The ice stream moves about 18 inches within ten minutes, producing two bursts of seismic waves per day.

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.

Long-term pesticide exposure may increase risk of diabetes

Researchers found that licensed pesticide applicators who used chlorinated pesticides for over 100 days were at greater risk of developing diabetes. The study associated specific pesticides with a 20-200% increase in risk, with trichlorfon showing the strongest relationship.

New wireless sensor network keeps tabs on the environment

The EcoNet wireless sensor network allows for continuous and inconspicuous monitoring of environmental factors such as temperature and luminosity in remote locations. This enables researchers to uncover anomalies early on and investigate them promptly, providing valuable insights into global environmental changes.

Are microbes the answer to the energy crisis?

Researchers are discovering microbes that can efficiently produce inexpensive, environmentally friendly biofuels as alternatives to oil. These microorganisms can ferment biomass into ethanol and biodiesel, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.

Does everyone really want to be a macho man?

A study found that Mexican-American men are more likely to endorse traditional masculine roles than European-American or black men. High SES is linked to a stronger adherence to these roles, even at the expense of emotional pressure.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Cartilage regeneration '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea'

Bioengineers at Rice University have developed a method to stimulate cartilage cell growth using intense pressure, resulting in tissue with nearly all properties of natural cartilage. The new process has potential for treating arthritis and repairing damaged tissues, but further testing is needed.

Mayo Clinic: Heart patients fare better in 3-year program

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that heart patients who met regularly with cardiac 'disease managers' for three years had better control of risk factors and lower death rates. The approach demonstrated clear clinical benefits, including improved cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and medication compliance.

A new way to protect computer networks from Internet worms

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new way to protect computer networks from Internet worms by automatically detecting infections within minutes. The method involves monitoring the number of scans sent out by machines on a network and isolating infected machines in quarantine for repairs.

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.

Programs succeed in reducing risky sex among HIV-positive minority men

Research at UCLA found that interventions addressing early life experiences, including childhood sexual abuse, can reduce high-risk sex and depressive symptoms among HIV-positive African American and Hispanic men. Social support within the groups played a significant role in these positive changes.

New superconductors present new mysteries, possibilities

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have unlocked secrets of newly discovered iron-based high-temperature superconductors, revealing new physics and mysteries. The findings suggest a need for fresh theoretical models to develop superconductors that can operate at room temperature.

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.

Tipsheet for June issue of BSSA

Numerical earthquake models are providing a means to understand physical processes and predict earthquakes, reducing damage and loss of life. Simulations show that surface-rupturing earthquakes absorb more seismic energy than buried ones, resulting in less ground shaking.

Substance in red wine found to keep hearts young

A new study found that low doses of resveratrol mimic the heart-healthy effects of caloric restriction, suggesting a possible explanation for France's low incidence of heart disease. The compound may also promote mitochondrial health and have anti-aging benefits.

UCSB's Nakamura wins Prince of Asturias Award

Professor Nakamura's revolutionary light-emitting diodes and blue laser diode have significantly contributed to the progress of humanity in energy efficiency. The award recognizes his work as a major breakthrough, enabling solid-state lighting to replace traditional incandescent and fluorescent lighting up to ten times more efficiently.

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.

Team hopes to use new technology to search for ETs

Researchers are using the Allen Telescope Array to target a specific area of the sky, the ecliptic plane, where they believe civilizations may be more likely to transmit signals. This targeted search increases the chances of detecting extraterrestrial life in our galaxy.

AGU journal highlights -- June 4, 2008

Researchers found that high-energy electrons are lost by the inner radiation belt during VLF transmitter periods, suggesting human systems can control radiation belt dynamics. Additionally, enhanced mixing within Southern Ocean fronts influences global ocean circulation and climate.

Family history of colorectal cancer linked with reduced risk of cancer recurrence

A family history of colorectal cancer is associated with a significant reduction in cancer recurrence and death, especially among patients receiving chemotherapy treatment. The study found that having more affected first-degree relatives further increased the protective effect, suggesting a distinct underlying molecular mechanism.

Average shoppers are willing to pay a premium for locally produced food

Research suggests that average supermarket shoppers are willing to pay a premium price for locally produced foods, with a notable difference between farm market and retail grocery shoppers. Shoppers prioritize buying food from small farms over corporate operations and value freshness guarantees.

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.

Honeybee dance breaks down cultural barrier

International researchers discovered that Asian and European honeybees can share information and cooperate through dance language despite their geographical distance. The study showed that the two species can decipher encoded messages correctly after adjustment in a mixed colony.

Brown researchers work toward ending cartilage loss

Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to regenerate cartilage naturally by creating a synthetic surface that attracts cartilage-forming cells. The team, led by Thomas Webster, uses carbon nanotubes to stimulate cell growth through electrical pulses, which appears to enhance cartilage regeneration.