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Science News Archive October 2008


Page 10 of 24

Birth control has long-term effect on hormone exposure

Researchers discovered that past oral contraceptive use can reduce estrogen levels for years after treatment is stopped, potentially leading to a reduced risk of ovarian and uterine cancers. The study used cynomolgus monkeys and found significant reductions in estrogen metabolites three years after surgical menopause.

What do Obama and Snapple have in common?

Researcher Patricia Turner finds parallels between Barack Obama's false rumors and those surrounding Snapple in the 1990s. These factors contribute to the spread of unsubstantiated hearsay and popular backlash.

Heart failure patients have higher risk of fractures

Researchers found that heart failure patients have a fourfold higher risk of fracture and six times the risk of hip fracture compared to other heart patients. Heart failure and osteoporosis share common risk factors such as older age, female sex, smoking, and type-2 diabetes.

Sandia, SES win Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Innovator Award

A joint Sandia/SES award recognized a solar-to-grid system conversion efficiency record of 31.25 percent, surpassing the existing 1984 record of 29.4 percent. The SES Serial #3 solar dish Stirling system achieved this milestone at Sandia's National Solar Thermal Test facility in January 2008.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sun-damaged skin responds well to laser treatment

Researchers found that photodynamic therapy, combining a topical photosensitizer and laser treatment, increases collagen levels and produces other skin changes in sun-damaged skin. The treatment may be particularly effective for skin with severe sun damage.

Scientific hunch poised to save thousands from toxic fish poisoning

Researchers have found a potential treatment for ciguatera poisoning using the compound brevenal, which can block the effect of the toxin on sodium channels. Currently, there are few effective treatments available for acute impact of ciguatera poisoning on humans and marine mammals.

Engineering nanoparticles for maximum strength

Researchers create hollow spherical nanospheres that can withstand extreme stress and deform without losing strength, approaching the theoretical ideal shear strength. The spheres' geometry is engineered to reduce stresses at specific regions, allowing them to transfer stress more efficiently.

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.

Penn State-Drexel team wins visual analytics competition

The Penn State-Drexel team developed and applied a set of geographically-enhanced visual analytics tools to address a homeland security information analysis problem. They successfully integrated raw data, results, and findings from four mini-challenges to identify hidden patterns and insights.

Study compares results of allergy patch tests between children and adults

A study comparing results of allergy patch tests between children and adults found that both groups reacted to various allergens at approximately the same rate. However, children were more likely to react to nickel, cobalt, thimerosal, and lanolin, while adults were more likely to react to neomycin, fragrance mix, M. pereirae, and quat...

Evidence-based drug therapy in acute heart attacks

A study found that heart attack patients treated by less experienced physicians had lower use of evidence-based drug therapies compared to those treated by more experienced cardiologists. The researchers recommend developing new methods to standardize prescribing practices, particularly for long-practicing physicians.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Ruthenium in a clinch

A new ruthenium catalyst allows for the selective synthesis of primary amines directly from alcohols and ammonia under mild conditions. This process avoids toxic reagents and waste products, making it ecologically and economically beneficial.

INFORMS recognizes Saaty with Impact Prize

Thomas L. Saaty, inventor of AHP, revolutionized decision-making with a breakthrough methodology that's widely used in business and government. His work has had a broad practical impact on operations research and related fields.

Nanoscale coating protect products -- and the economy

Researchers at UWM have developed smart coatings that heal shallow pits and fractures on almost any material, preventing further degradation in various industries. The coatings, created by Dr. Carolyn Aita, adjust to conditions within the human body, preventing implant rejection or failure.

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.

'A dinosaur dance floor'

Researchers identified over 1,000 dinosaur tracks at a site in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, providing evidence of wet intervals during the Early Jurassic Period. The site includes rare tail-drag marks, revealing at least four dinosaur species gathered at the watering hole.

Nerve repair, biodetectors, proton therapy, microscopic medical devices

Advances in nerve repair, miniature implantable medical devices and proton therapy were showcased at the AVS 55th International Symposium. Researchers developed new technologies to print cells for artificial organs and created microscopic medical devices that can deliver drugs and monitor health.

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.

Group bragging betrays insecurity, study shows

Researchers found that groups boasting about their status are actually insecure, while those focusing on individual efforts have high social standing. The study's findings have implications for understanding political rallies and football games.

Revolutionary operation performed live for heart rhythm congress

A revolutionary heart operation technique using cutting-edge technology will be performed on October 20, demonstrating the University of Leicester's world-class credentials in cardiology. Dr. Andre Ng, a leading expert in catheter ablation procedures, will perform the procedure live at the Heart Rhythm Congress.

How neuronal activity leads to Alzheimer's protein cleavage

Researchers investigate how neuronal activity leads to amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleavage and the formation of fibrous plaques in Alzheimer's disease patients. Treatment with a cdk5 inhibitor reduces APP association with BACE microdomains and cleavage.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists map soils on an extinct American volcano

Researchers conducted a high-resolution soil survey of Capulin Volcano National Monument in New Mexico, collecting over 140 soil samples and creating interpolated maps. The study provided valuable insights into the park's soil characteristics, enabling more effective management of natural resources.

T cell response to new melanoma antigen linked to relapse-free survival

A study by French researchers found that infused T cells recognize a new protein called meloe-1, which is highly expressed in melanoma cells but not normal skin cells. Meloe-1-specific T cells were more common among patients who remained relapse-free, suggesting this strategy may improve adoptive immunotherapy efficacy.

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.

Sandia aids cleanup of Iraqi nuclear facilities, rad waste

Sandia scientists train Iraqi professionals to clean up radioactively contaminated sites and safely dispose of radioactive wastes. The program focuses on characterization, cleanup, dismantling nuclear facilities, waste management, and waste disposal at the Al Tuwaitha nuclear complex.

Is tobacco use a disease?

Researchers propose alternative strategies to combat tobacco use, focusing on vulnerable populations such as homeless individuals, Aboriginal people, and those with mental illness. New approaches aim to better understand the underlying factors hindering population-based interventions.

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.

'Dry cleaning effect' explained by forgetful Yale researcher

A Yale researcher suggests that a competition between brain areas can explain why people forget tasks, such as dropping off dry cleaning. This 'dry cleaning effect' involves the interaction between the striatum and hippocampus, which may be relevant to understanding mental illnesses like obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Pesticide concentrations decreasing

A new USGS study published in the Journal of Environmental Quality shows that pesticide contamination in groundwater has decreased over the past decade. Only six compounds were detected in ground water from at least 10 wells during the study period, with concentrations less than 0.12 parts per billion.

New TB test reveals patients at risk, says study

A new blood test has been shown to identify patients at risk of developing active tuberculosis (TB) with greater precision than the traditional skin test. The ELISpot blood test can pinpoint those who need preventative treatment, reducing unnecessary treatments and associated risks.

Study: Wildlife need more complex travel plans

A new UC Davis study found that symmetrical systems of wildlife corridors may do less good for natural communities than designs with randomness or asymmetry built in. This research provides insights for land managers and community planners designing corridors, shedding light on what works and what doesn't.

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.

MU scientist uses tracer to predict ancient ocean circulation

Researchers measured chemical tracers in ancient fish scales and bones to estimate ancient ocean circulation patterns during greenhouse climates. Their findings contradict previous models, proposing sinking of warm waters and enhanced mixing in the Late Cretaceous North Atlantic Ocean.

Penn State researcher wins Entomological Society of America award

Consuelo M. De Moraes, a Penn State entomologist, has received the ESA's Early Career Innovation Award for her innovative research on chemical communication in ecological interactions. The award recognizes her contributions to promoting minority and women in science.

Race and insurance status associated with death from trauma

A study of 429,751 trauma patients found that African American and Hispanic patients had significantly higher death rates compared to white patients. Uninsured patients also had a higher death risk, with mortality rates doubling for African American and Hispanic patients compared to white patients.

Study: Immigrants close earning gap more slowly than previously thought

A study by University of Illinois economist Darren Lubotsky found that immigrants' earnings growth is slower than expected, with only a 10-15% annual increase over their first 20 years in the US. This challenges widely used census-based projections and highlights the need for more accurate data on immigrant earnings.

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.

Orange appeal to clean up dirty water

Researchers in Algeria have discovered that orange peel can effectively remove acidic dyes from industrial effluent, blocking sunlight and harming photosynthesizing plant species. The study found that absorption time depends on dye concentration and temperature, with strong dyes absorbed at up to 70 milligrams per gram of orange peel.

Tip sheet for Oct. 21, 2008, issue of Annals of Internal Medicine

The USPSTF recommends primary care interventions to promote breastfeeding, with coordinated interventions increasing initiation, duration, and exclusivity. Breastfeeding has substantial health benefits to babies and their mothers, including reduced infections, allergic skin rashes, and type 2 diabetes.

Contact lenses are home to pathogenic amoebae

A high percentage of contact lens cases in Tenerife are contaminated with pathogenic Acanthamoeba that cannot be killed by normal contact lens solution. The infection is very painful and can cause blindness. Researchers have found that commercial contact lens solutions do not protect against amoebic keratitis.

Light-activated therapy may change skin at molecular level

A study published in Archives of Dermatology found that light-activated therapy increased levels of Ki67, a protein involved in new skin cell growth, and collagen production. Skin thickness also increased after treatment, suggesting improved appearance.

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.

The genetic explanation for moles' poor eyesight

Researchers have discovered primary developmental defects in the lens of moles, leading to a disrupted epithelium and disorganized mass of immature fibre cells. Genetic information reveals abnormal gene expression central to eye development, causing incomplete lens fibre completion.

Tick-borne encephalitis virus reveals its access code

Researchers at Rockefeller University Press identified an amino acid switch that flaviviruses use to gain access to cells. The team discovered that mutating one specific histidine residue can completely abolish fusion ability in tick-borne encephalitis virus, a dangerous human pathogen.

Hypertension disparity linked to environment

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that nearly 31% of hypertension disparity among African Americans and non-Hispanic whites is attributable to environmental factors. The researchers suggest that social environment plays a greater role in the disparity.

Research around the North Pole

The German research vessel Polarstern has completed its Arctic expedition, collecting data on the geology of the Arctic area and the development of ocean currents. Researchers discovered large sliding masses beneath the seafloor, indicating significant sediment relocations in the region.

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.

Rare corals breed their way out of trouble

New research suggests rare corals can cross-breed with other species to increase genetic diversity and adapt to changing conditions. This finding has raised hopes for the ability of corals to withstand the impacts of climate change.

Do cell phones increase brain cancer risk?

Recent studies suggest a possible link between long-term cell phone use and increased risk of brain tumors, prompting a call for collaborative research initiatives. Scientists emphasize the need for definitive evidence to determine the risks associated with electromagnetic field exposure from cell phones.

New study finds first inhabitants of Caribbean brought drug heirlooms with them

A new study found physical evidence of ancient drug paraphernalia in the Caribbean, dated between 400 and 100 B.C., suggesting that the artifacts were transported to the islands as heirlooms. The research team used luminescence dating to analyze ceramic inhaling bowls, which indicated that they were not made using local materials.

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.

Asbestos mortality: A Canadian export

Asbestos export continues in Canada, violating its own limitations and the WHO's recommendation to end chrysotile mining. The practice contributes significantly to the global health crisis caused by asbestos-related diseases.

Cosmic lens reveals distant galactic violence

A team of scientists used a natural cosmic lens to capture an image of a distant galaxy in the early Universe. The image shows a massive reservoir of gas and a supermassive black hole feeding a burst of star formation, indicating that the galaxy has collided with another.

New candidate genes for schizophrenia identified

Researchers have identified three new candidate genes for schizophrenia that may contribute to a better understanding of the disease. These genes are associated with brain function and are present in only 1% of schizophrenia patients, suggesting they play a significant role in its development.