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Science News Archive March 2008


Page 9 of 19

NASA satellite measures pollution from east Asia to North America

A new NASA study uses satellite data to estimate the amount of pollution from East Asian forest fires, urban exhaust, and industrial production that reaches western North America. The study estimates that 15% of local US & Canada emissions are offset by pollution aerosols coming from East Asia.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

What gets a female's attention -- at least a songbird's

Female zebra finches strongly preferred directed, courtship songs with less variability in pitch, indicating an ear for detail. The study's findings also suggest that females' preferences shape male song behavior over time, highlighting the importance of social communication in birdsong production and perception.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for March 18, 2008, issue

Research findings suggest that growth hormone does not enhance athletic performance, while universal MRSA screening is associated with significant disease reduction. Additionally, cognitive impairment affecting 22% of older adults exists without dementia, and current colonoscopy guidelines may predict false positives for advanced polyps.

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.

Curbing teen drinking difficult in urban areas

A three-year prevention program did little to reduce alcohol use among Chicago middle schoolers, despite its success in rural Minnesota. The study suggests that low-income children in urban areas need more comprehensive and intensive efforts to prevent drinking.

Clovis-age overkill didn't take out California's flightless sea duck

Scientists found that humans first hunted the flightless sea duck more than 10,000 years ago, but it persisted until about 2,400 years ago. The prolonged survival of the bird challenges the 'Pleistocene over-kill theory', which suggests that human arrival led to rapid extinction.

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.

Wine labels with animals: Why they work

Researchers found that consumers associate animal logos more strongly with themselves than traditional product-related logos. This association enhances brand evaluation and recognition. The study's findings challenge conventional branding wisdom, suggesting unique visual identifiers can be effective in marketing.

On the trail of rogue genetically modified pathogens

A new genomics tool identifies artificial vector sequences by clustering shared DNA regions, allowing for high sensitivity and specificity in detecting engineered pathogens. The tool's potential is being explored to combat malicious genetic engineering applications.

Bonn scientists discover new hemoglobin type

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a new hemoglobin type that appears to transport less oxygen than normal. This discovery was made after examining two patients with low oxygen levels in their blood, who did not show any signs of cardiac defects. The new type of haemoglobin, named Haemoglobin Bonn, can distort oxygen...

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

London's HIV epidemic was driven by clusters of sexual contacts

The rapid growth of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in London during the late 1990s was driven by transmission within clusters of sexual contacts, with individuals frequently passing the virus to others after becoming infected. Phylogenetic analysis revealed six large clusters and many smaller ones based on genetic relatedness of HIV viruses.

Problems getting around in old age? Blame your brain

A three-year study found people with severe white matter changes are twice as likely to score poorly on walking and balance tests. Exercise may have the potential to reduce the risk of these problems, which can lead to hospitalization and nursing home placement.

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.

Researchers discover how stealthy HIV protein gets into cells

A multidisciplinary team from the University of Illinois has solved the mystery of how the HIV virus's TAT protein crosses cell membranes. The findings reveal that the protein creates a 'saddle splay curvature' in the membrane, making it porous and allowing molecules to pass through.

Mercury's shifting, rolling past

Researchers propose that mantle convection played a role in forming Mercury's lobate scarps, contrary to earlier theories. The simulations suggest that upwellings from mantle convection take on a linear roll shape, distinct from other planets' features.

When does context matter in product evaluations?

Researchers found that consumers with a relational processing mindset, which notices relationships between data, are shaped by context and can apply it to subsequent products. This contrasts with item-specific processing, where data is considered independently.

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.

Foodborne outbreaks from leafy greens on rise

The proportion of foodborne outbreaks linked to leafy green consumption has substantially increased over the past 35 years, despite a rise in leafy green consumption. Per capita availability of leafy greens was found to be a significant factor in this correlation.

Fake diamonds help jet engines take the heat

Researchers at Ohio State University are developing a technology to coat turbine blades with zirconium dioxide, also known as synthetic diamond, to combat high-temperature corrosion. The coating converts corrosive particles into a protective outer layer, renewing itself constantly.

Novel spots found on Jupiter

Researchers have found unexpected luminous spots on Jupiter's atmosphere caused by the moon Io's volcanic eruptions. The discovery challenges previous models of the Io footprint and reveals a new interpretation where beams of electrons travel from one hemisphere to another.

From Green Luddite to Techspressive: The ideology of consumer technology

Four main ideologies governing tech consumption are outlined in a new paper, including the Techtopian ideology promoting social betterment through tech development. The study reveals that each promise offered by these ideologies is ultimately unrealizable, driving consumers to seek completion through ceaseless technology adoption.

Tightwads outnumber spendthrifts

A recent survey of over 13,000 shoppers reveals that tightwads are more prevalent than spendthrifts due to the emotional pain associated with spending. Tightwads tend to save because forking out money is too painful an experience.

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.

Making protected areas pay biodiversity dividends

A new essay proposes revising protected area categories to reflect biodiversity outcomes, with potential huge implications for preserving the earth's rapidly diminishing biodiversity. The change aims to make significant gains in biodiversity conservation and stanch species loss, habitat destruction, and ecosystem services degradation.

Like sweets? You're more like a fruit fly than you think ...

Researchers at Monell Center found that fruit flies respond positively to most human-preferred sweeteners, highlighting the critical role of environment in shaping taste preferences. The study suggests convergent evolution in perceptual behavior, where similar environmental pressures led to similar taste responses.

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.

Chemical engineers discover new way to control particle motion

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a new method to control fluid particle motion in tiny channels. By arranging particles in layers aligned with channel boundaries, they can promote faster particle transport and improve the efficiency of micro- and nano-scale technologies.

Controlling a sea of information

The partnership aims to reduce the 'flood of information' in TAIR by allowing researchers to directly enter their own data through a web interface. This will increase data input from Plant Physiology articles, enhancing the overall dataset in TAIR.

National Lung Cancer Partnership and LUNGevity Foundation

Two researchers, Hildegard Schuller and Albert Baldwin, received funding for studies on sex differences in lung cancer and the regulation of normal cell growth. The grants aim to increase understanding of lung cancer and support scientists pursuing lung cancer research.

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.

New study: Pycnogenol improves memory in elderly

A double-blind study found Pycnogenol improved both numerical and spatial working memory in senior citizens. The antioxidant extract reduced oxidative stress markers, indicating a potential role in preserving or enhancing mental functions.

The big gamble

The banking crisis is attributed to unrealistic expectations of high returns on equity and poor risk management, according to economist Paul J.J. Welfens. The crisis will persist if regulatory systems are not improved and sustainable investment strategies are not promoted.

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.

Chikungunya virus and maternal infection; and more

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that Chikungunya virus-infected mothers rarely harm infants early in pregnancy but can cause severe problems, including brain injury, in babies born near the time of delivery. Researchers recommend clinicians monitor babies exposed to chikungunya around delivery for supportive treatment.

Dr. John Polanyi wins Canada's most prestigious science award

Dr. John Polanyi is awarded the Gerhard Herzberg Gold Medal for his outstanding contributions to science and society over 50 years. The $1 million prize will fund his research for the next five years, supporting breakthroughs in manipulating molecules.

Algorithm finds the network -- for genes or the Internet

Researchers have developed an algorithm to discover communities and substructures in various networks, including genetic networks and social networks. The tool has been applied to identify community structures in co-expressed genes and social networks, and can also be used for sociological research.

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.

Study examines changes in quality of life after head and neck cancer treatment

Patients with head and neck cancer experience declines in physical quality of life due to treatments such as feeding tube placement, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, their mental health quality of life improves after one year, suggesting the importance of addressing depression and smoking cessation in treatment.

Neighborhoods play key role in how much people exercise, study says

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that neighborhoods with higher levels of poverty, lower education, and more female-headed families tend to have lower exercise levels. Social and economic factors outside of individual control can impact physical activity.

Online technical support forums build social capital

Researchers found that online P3 communities produce social capital, which strengthens over time and provides a foundation for archived technical assistance and broad social connections. Members develop an extended family-like relationship, sharing moral support and valuable advice.

Breast cancer in black women may be connected to neighborhood conditions

A study by the University of Chicago's Center for Interdisciplinary Health Disparities Research links early onset breast cancer in black women to neighborhood conditions, including social isolation and stress. The research aims to inform policy makers on creating cost-effective interventions to reduce women's vulnerability.

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.

New insight into the genetics of brain tumor formation

Researchers identify KIFBbeta as a potential new neuronal tumor suppressor gene that mediates apoptosis in neural crest-derived tumors. The study suggests that KIFBbeta provides a protective effect against the development of these tumors.

Researchers develop method to rapidly ID optimal drug cocktails

A new feedback control scheme can search for the most effective drug combinations to treat various conditions, including cancers and infections. The discovery holds promise for facilitating new clinical drug-cocktail trials and optimizing combination therapies while reducing side effects.

Testicular cancer gauge often not used

Researchers found that only about 45% of cases used tumor markers AFP and HCG, with all three markers measured in just 16% of the time. This suggests low usage rates despite the importance of tumor markers in showing patient response to treatment and disease recurrence.

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.

Body mass index higher among bariatric surgery patients with 2 genetic variations

A study of 707 morbidly obese adult patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery found that those with two genetic obesity variations had significantly higher BMIs. The presence of these genetic variants may overcome the effects of bariatric surgery, highlighting their potential as susceptibility genes for postoperative weight gain.

Asia's odd-ball antelope faces migration crisis

A recent study found a narrow corridor of habitat in Mongolia threatened by herders and increased traffic, posing a migration bottleneck for the endangered saiga antelope. The species, known for its distinctive nose, has seen its numbers plummet by 95% due to poaching and competition with livestock.

Loss of egg yolk genes in mammals and the origin of lactation and placentation

Researchers found that milk-protein genes arose in the mammalian common ancestor and preceded the loss of egg protein genes. This transition allowed mammals to feed their young via the placenta and with milk, abandoning eggs as a source of nutrition. The study provides insights into the origins of lactation and placentation in mammals.

Work with power grids leads to cell biology discovery

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered a counterintuitive approach to gene therapy that targets the removal of genes to restore cellular function. This method has implications for medical research and optimizing metabolic processes used in biofuel production.

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.