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Science News Archive October 2008


Page 3 of 24

Sniffing out a better chemical sensor

Researchers at NIST have developed an electronic nose that can recognize hundreds of chemical compounds with high accuracy and robustness. The device mimics the biological approach used by animals to detect odors, allowing it to generalize knowledge from familiar smells to unknown ones.

Workplace obesity program shows modest effects after just 1 year

A workplace obesity program implemented at 12 Dow Chemical Company sites showed modest improvements in health risks, including weight management and decreased blood pressure, after one year. The study, led by Emory University public health researcher Ron Goetzel, examined the effects of environmental interventions on employee health.

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.

Predicting boom and bust ecologies

A University of Calgary researcher has uncovered fundamental rules governing population cycles in natural systems, shedding light on the balancing act between stability and dramatic swings. The study reveals how food availability affects juvenile growth in populations, explaining different types of cycles in predator-prey systems.

Media coverage affects how people perceive threat of disease: study

A study from McMaster University found that media coverage greatly influences public perception of infectious diseases, making them appear more threatening. Researchers discovered that diseases receiving frequent press attention, like bird flu, are perceived as more serious than those without similar coverage.

Global methane levels on the rise again

After eight years of near-zero growth, global methane concentrations have resumed their increase, potentially offsetting the slowing growth rate of carbon dioxide. Methane is a key greenhouse gas, accounting for nearly 20% of global warming since the industrial revolution.

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.

Scientists find evidence of tsunamis on Indian Ocean shores long before 2004

Researchers have uncovered evidence of at least three previous major tsunamis in the Indian Ocean over the past 2,800 years, with the most recent occurring between 550 and 700 years ago. The findings suggest that a region's tsunami history can serve as a long-term warning system, highlighting the importance of tsunami education.

Grapes may aid a bunch of heart risk factors, animal study finds

A new University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center study suggests that grapes can lower blood pressure and signs of heart muscle damage, and improve heart function in lab rats. The effect is thought to be due to the high level of phytochemicals - naturally occurring antioxidants - found in grapes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Our cheatin' brain: The brain's clever way of showing us the world as a whole

Scientists found that boundary extension, a type of false memory, occurs quickly when visual input is disrupted, suggesting the role of amodal perception and spatial perception in scene perception. The study suggests that errors in boundary judgment may be beneficial for understanding the world as a coherent whole.

Facing fears early may reduce childhood anxiety

Research at Mayo Clinic suggests that teaching children to face their fears can improve functioning and complete exercises exposing them to their fears earlier than recommended treatment manuals. In contrast, focusing solely on managing anxieties yields less improvement.

Genetic link to gender identity

Researchers discovered a significant genetic link between male to female transsexuals and a longer version of the androgen receptor (AR) gene, which modifies testosterone action. This study provides evidence for a biological basis of how gender identity develops.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Predatory bacterial swarm uses rippling motion to reach prey

Researchers discovered that Myxococcus xanthus uses a rippling motion to hunt other bacteria, with the pattern adapting to prey density. The study found that individual cells line up and move in an alternating pattern, producing high and low cell density waves.

Promoting the healing process after a heart attack

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt aim to improve heart healing after a heart attack by promoting cellular regeneration. Micro-RNAs may hold the key to discovering new inhibitors to regulate protein synthesis and activate stem cells.

Vaginal/Caesarean combo delivery of twins safe, UT Southwestern-led research finds

A two-year study led by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that combining a vaginal delivery with a Caesarean section for the second twin is generally safe. The researchers compared over 1,000 women who underwent this procedure and found that it was associated with a slightly higher risk of infection, but this risk was easily treated.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Households significantly reduce electricity use when prices rise

A study found that households in California reduced their electricity use by 13% when prices rose, but returned to previous levels once prices fell. Public informational campaigns also played a significant role in conserving energy, with households reducing their use by an additional 7%.

Human diet gives deadly bacteria a target

A potent bacterial toxin targets human cells expressing Neu5Gc, a sugar incorporated from diet, making humans susceptible to disease. Red meat and dairy products are richest dietary sources of Neu5Gc, increasing the risk of E. coli infection.

Play at your own risk

A new study by Dr. Navah Ratzon found that amateur athletes are at risk of musculoskeletal problems due to the intensity and repetitive movements involved in their sport. To prevent such damage, experts advise incorporating stretching, balancing exercises, and proper rest into daily routines.

If the diabetes has a direct carcinogenetic effect?

A large population-based case-control study found that patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) have a significantly increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), independent of cofactors. The study suggests that DM2 may be a concourse rather than merely a consequence of the liver tumor.

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.

Methane gas levels begin to increase again

A team of MIT researchers has detected a new surge in methane levels, ending a decade-long period of stability. The increase is attributed to an imbalance between emissions and destruction, with the majority of emissions coming from the Northern Hemisphere.

Metal hazard from table wines

A meta-analysis found that many wines contain high levels of metal ions, exceeding the safe threshold and posing potential health risks. The study suggests that these metals may contribute to neurological problems, oxidative damage, and chronic inflammatory diseases.

November-December 2008 GSA Bulletin media highlights

Researchers investigated ancient soils in Big Bend National Park, Texas, and found increased chemical weathering during the initial Eocene thermal maximum. The study suggests that increased humidity and CO2 levels led to hydrolysis reactions, potentially serving as a negative feedback to reduce atmospheric CO2.

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.

MU study identifies patient strategies for managing symptoms of lymphedema

Breast cancer survivors with lymphedema often don't treat their symptoms, with 29-65% of patients taking no action. Patients who do manage their symptoms use a mix of recommended techniques, pharmaceutical treatments, and lay therapies. The study aims to address the gap in treatment and develop effective management techniques.

New drug target in obesity: Fat cells make lots of melanin

Researchers found that fat cells in obese people produce melanin in excess, which could lead to the development of new treatments for obesity-related metabolic problems. The discovery was confirmed using additional laboratory tests and may provide a safer alternative to weight loss treatments.

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.

FSU Historian's Arctic research has him sitting on top of the world

A Florida State University researcher is leading an international team to produce a comprehensive history of the Arctic region from the late 19th century to the present. The team, funded by the European Science Foundation, is conducting a comparative international study of Arctic science and its impact on perceptions of the region.

A card-swipe for medical tests

Researchers have developed a prototype card-swipe device that can test for dozens of diseases simultaneously, detecting as few as 800 microscopic particles. The device uses giant magnetoresistance technology, similar to hard drive reads, and could lead to fast and affordable diagnosis in medical settings.

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.

Stress affects older adults more than young adults

A new study examines how stress affects decision-making in older and younger adults, revealing that stressed older adults alter their behavior more significantly. The researchers found that stressed older adults were not only more cautious but also jerkier drivers, braking almost three times as much as their calmer peers.

CHEST 2008: Featured abstracts

Researchers found that in-home photography can identify asthma triggers, while omega-3 fatty acid levels may affect sleep apnea severity. Seasonal asthma patterns show a peak in the fall, and in-hospital statin use is associated with lower mortality rates in patients with severe sepsis.

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.

New sleep medicine research presented at CHEST 2008

Researchers found that difficulty falling asleep was associated with a lower risk of hypertension in men who were not African-American. Omega-3 fatty acid levels may affect sleep apnea severity, while sedative-hypnotic medication could improve CPAP compliance. BMI may predict sleep apnea diagnosis in children.

CHEST 2008: New research in pediatric chest medicine

Asthma health-care utilization peaks in the fall, with emergency department visits increasing by 2.4 to 5.6 times higher than in summer. Swimming is found to be an effective nonpharmacologic intervention for children with asthma, improving pulmonary function and severity of symptoms. Virgin coconut oil may also aid in treating pediatri...

Silicon optical fiber made practical

Researchers at Clemson University have successfully created a practical silicon optical fiber using standard mass-production methods. The development of this new fiber is expected to increase efficiency and decrease power consumption in computers and other systems that integrate photonic and electronic devices.

New pulmonary hypertension research presented at CHEST 2008

New research shows tadalafil, an erectile dysfunction drug, effectively treats pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by improving six of eight short form-36 domains and reducing pulmonary artery pressures. The study also reveals PAH diagnosis has increased by 10 months and affects women more in middle age.

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.

Methylmercury warning

Recent studies suggest that methylmercury can cause irreversible brain damage in unborn children at previously considered safe levels of exposure. Methylmercury toxicity is well-known, but its effects on the developing nervous system have been underestimated.

A need for improved efficiency in nanomanufacturing

Researchers highlight the need for improved efficiency in nanomanufacturing to reduce energy use, emissions, and solid waste. Studies show that nanoscale production can have greater environmental burdens than conventional manufacturing methods.

Green neighborhoods may reduce childhood obesity

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that children living in inner city neighborhoods with higher green space experienced lower weight gains compared to those in areas with less greenery. The researchers followed over 3800 children and found no correlation between physical activity levels and BMI changes.

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 critical care research presented at CHEST 2008

Researchers found that in-hospital statin use is associated with lower mortality in patients with severe sepsis. Additionally, repeated CPR in hospitalized patients has a high mortality rate, while remote teleintensivist care improves ICU and hospital length of stay and mortality rates. Furthermore, female hospital staff members have d...

Brain's 'hate circuit' identified

Researchers at UCL found a 'hate circuit' in the brain that is distinct from those related to love, fear, and aggression. The study reveals that the 'hate circuit' involves structures in the cortex and sub-cortex that are also activated by romantic love, but with a different pattern of activity.

Gene against bacterial attack unravelled

Researchers have discovered a gene-protein combination that renders the lethal bacterium B. pseudomallei harmless, allowing for potential vaccine development. The Toll2 receptor is found to be effective in fending off the bacteria, contrary to previous assumptions about its limited importance.

Eastman Dental Center awarded $1.6 million to find ways to prevent cavities

The National Institutes of Health has awarded Eastman Dental Center's Hyun Koo $1.6 million to continue his work on preventing dental caries by disrupting bacterial biofilm formation. Koo's team has discovered compounds in cranberry and red wine grapes that may reduce the ability of bacteria to form plaque and cause cavities.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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