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Science News Archive March 2008


Page 8 of 19

Rabbits to the rescue of the reef

Scientists found that rabbit fish are efficient herbivores capable of controlling weedy growth on coral reefs. The fish concentrate their efforts on the reef crest, but less effectively on slopes and flats, highlighting the need for a diverse 'guild' of species to maintain reef resilience.

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.

New technique improves outcome for living donor liver transplants

A new CT imaging technique has significantly improved the outcome of living donor liver transplants by enhancing accurate visualization of vital bile duct anatomy. This innovation, adopted by radiologists at the University of Alberta Hospital, aims to reduce screening time and improve convenience for potential donors.

The song doesn't remain the same in fragmented bird populations

A study found that individual song complexity is associated with the overall population's viability, particularly in smaller, fragmented populations. Birds from more productive populations sang more complex songs, indicating higher mating success and population health.

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.

NIST evaluates firefighting tactics in NYC high-rise test

Researchers used a NYC high-rise as a fire laboratory to study wind-driven flame, smoke, and gas spread through corridors and stairways. Positive pressure ventilation fans and prototype devices helped control deadly heat and smoke from wind-driven fires.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cutting-edge computational molecular biology research featured in Genome Research

Researchers have developed new mathematical models to infer ancestral origins from genomic data, significantly improving accuracy. Additionally, a novel technique for mapping disease genes using admixture linkage disequilibrium has been created, offering a powerful approach for identifying genetic determinants of common diseases.

Loopy photons clarify 'spookiness' of quantum physics

Scientists created pairs of entangled photons using a twisted optical fiber, demonstrating the 'spooky action at a distance' predicted by quantum theory. Their results rule out nonlocal hidden variables theories and confirm quantum mechanics' predictions.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New study changes conditions for Spanish brown bears

A recent study published in PNAS found that Spanish brown bears have genetic material from bears in other parts of Europe, challenging the idea of their isolation. The research, led by Anders Götherstam and Cristina Valdiosera, analyzed DNA sequences from prehistoric material and discovered a unexpected pattern.

A built-in strategy for transgene containment

Researchers at Zhejiang University developed a technology to create selectively terminable transgenic rice plants using RNAi cassette. This innovation allows for controlled cultivation and reduces the risk of transgene spreading, making it ideal for bioreactors and industrial applications.

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.

What should we do when esophageal perforation occurs?

The use of a rigid endoscope during removal of an impacted foreign body is an effective and safe treatment alternative for esophageal perforation. Non-operative management is not recommended in the presence of neck and mediastinum abscesses, necessitating surgical suture and drainage.

Killer stairs? Taking the elevator could be worse for your body

A new study published in JAMA found that a lack of regular physical activity can cause many diseases, with effects visible within two weeks. The researchers discovered that reducing daily physical activity led to higher glucose and fat levels in the blood, increasing the risk of chronic diseases.

Tell them where it hurts

A new technique called Scan and Solve uses 3-D data analysis to predict stress points in objects like Michelangelo's David and human bones. The approach could aid engineers in developing protections for heavily used components, such as ancient artifacts and implants.

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.

What effect does melatonin have in colitis?

Researchers found that melatonin administration reverses marked increases in bacterial translocation in postcolitis rats due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. The study suggests a potential therapeutic role for melatonin in managing colitis.

Satellites can help Arctic grazers survive killer winter storms

Researchers found a signature to detect rain-on-snow events in satellite microwave imagery, which can prevent mass starvation of native people's livestock. The method could provide a realistic chance of getting food to herds affected by the devastating weather event.

Reducing HD risk naturally post-menopause

Regular aerobic exercise significantly decreases oxidative stress levels and improves cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. The study found that both HRT users and non-users benefited equally from the exercise program, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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.

Mekong schistosomiasis is more widespread than previously thought

A new study suggests that Schistosoma mekongi is more widely distributed in the Mekong River basin than previously believed, posing a potential threat to disease control efforts. The parasite's range may be broader than thought, with possible spread into Laos from Vietnam.

Research promising for cystic fibrosis

Researchers at University of Toronto have identified compounds that block the activity of a key protein (ExoS) in cystic fibrosis patients. These compounds may also serve as a model for future therapies against the HIV virus, according to a new study published in PLoS Genetics.

European membrane expertise to focus on new treatments for human diseases

A €15 million European Commission-funded project, EDICT, brings together leading experts in membrane proteins to find novel treatments for diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. The research aims to map the structure of proteins to identify compounds that could be developed as new treatments.

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.

Stopping a receptor called 'nogo' boosts the synapses

Reducing the nogo receptor in the brain results in stronger brain signaling in mice, effectively boosting signal strength between synapses. The findings suggest that enhancing synaptic plasticity can partially counter the effects of an injury like stroke or traumatic brain injury.

Gene 'knockout' floors tobacco carcinogen

Researchers at NC State University have developed a method to silence a gene that turns nicotine into a carcinogen, resulting in a six-fold decrease in N-nitrosonornicotine and a 50% overall reduction in TSNAs. This breakthrough could lead to tobacco products with reduced amounts of cancer-causing agents.

New choices bring wider range of women to family planning

A study published in Contraception reports that the Standard Days Method brings new women to family planning, with over half having never used a method before. The method's effectiveness and ease of use led to increased contraceptive use among participants.

Does stress damage the brain?

A study found reduced gray matter density in the pregenual anterior cingulate cortex of combat-exposed veterans with PTSD, but not their identical twins. The researchers suggest that stress exposure may cause this damage, leading to emotional consequences.

Spring training for parents?

A study by sport psychologists at the University of Washington found that providing parent workshops alongside coach training decreases performance anxiety and stress in young athletes. The research demonstrated the effectiveness of this combined approach in improving the youth sports experience.

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.

Canine influenza was around as early as 1999

Researchers found evidence of canine influenza virus circulation in the greyhound population dating back to 1999. The discovery sheds light on a potential earlier introduction of the virus, which may have caused respiratory outbreaks at racing tracks.

Lithium chloride slows onset of skeletal muscle disorder

A UC Irvine study finds that lithium chloride can slow the development of inclusion body myositis, a skeletal muscle disease affecting the elderly. The treatment reduced phospho-tau levels and motor function loss in mice, suggesting potential effectiveness for humans.

Scans spot hidden tumors in rare cancer syndrome

Researchers found unsuspected treatable tumors in Li-Fraumeni syndrome patients using full-body PET/CT scanning. The study suggests that periodic scans could catch more tumors at a curable stage, but further studies are needed to confirm the benefits and risks.

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.

IU Health & Wellness: Research and insights from Indiana University

A recent study by Indiana University found that overweight but active men experienced a 24% improvement in vascular function after exercise, compared to a 32% decrease in inactive individuals. The research highlights the importance of daily physical activity in maintaining cardiovascular health, even if weight loss is not immediate.

Arctic pollution's surprising history

A University of Utah study reveals that polar explorers saw an aerosol 'dry haze' in the late 1800s, likely generated by smelting and coal combustion. The haze was found to contain metallic particles, including vanadium and cobalt, consistent with heavy oil and coal combustion.

Uric acid may provide early clues to diabetic kidney disease

A study found that elevated uric acid levels can precede significant changes in urine albumin levels, suggesting a potential early sign of diabetic kidney disease. Higher uric acid levels are associated with lower kidney function in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Solving an avian scourge could also provide benefits to human health

Researchers at Arizona State University are developing a vaccine that targets both Avian Pathogenic E. coli (APEC) and Salmonella, two leading causes of poultry disease and food-borne illness. The project has the potential to provide benefits not only to the poultry industry but also to human health by preventing outbreaks of diseases ...

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.

The regulation of negative emotions: impact on brain activity

Researchers examined two emotion regulation strategies: reappraisal and suppression. Reappraisal reduced negative emotions and activated prefrontal cortex, while suppression increased amygdala activity. These findings suggest reappraisal as a more successful coping strategy.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Only 2 percent of child drug trials have independent safety checks

A major review found that only two per cent of paediatric drug trials had independent safety monitoring committees to detect adverse drug reactions. Clinical drug trials in children are essential for developing medicines and treatments, but greater safety measures and awareness are needed.

A new method of pancreaticojejunostomy?

A new method of pancreaticojejunostomy has been developed to overcome technical difficulties in performing the procedure on soft pancreas with narrow ductal size. The method uses a fast-absorbable suture material and temporary stent to secure complete external drainage of pancreatic juice.

Scientists successfully awaken sleeping stem cells

Researchers at Schepens Eye Research Institute have identified a chemical compound that can awaken dormant Müller cells in the eye, transforming them into progenitor cells capable of generating new retinal cells. This breakthrough discovery offers new potential for treating diseases such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.

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.

High-tech interrogations may promote abuse

Researchers warn that brain imaging technology, such as fMRI, may promote abuse of detainees due to its limitations and open interpretation. The technology's reliance on detecting tiny changes in blood oxygen levels raises concerns about accuracy and potential misuse.