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Science News Archive 2009


Page 152 of 277

D.C. Math for America awarded $1.5-million NSF grant

The Carnegie Institution's CASE and Math for America (MfA) partnership aims to recruit, train, and retain effective secondary school mathematics teachers in Washington, D.C. The program has received a $1.5-million NSF grant to support 14 Fellows over the next four years.

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.

Memories may be formed throughout the day, not just while sleeping

A study on rats reveals that neural replay of past experiences occurs both during and after wakefulness, forming long-term memories more accurately. The hippocampus replays events in peppered bursts, often involving different settings, suggesting elements of past experience are constantly reactivated.

The downside of microtubule stability

Research finds stalled microtubules in cells with faulty dynamin 2 protein, leading to reduced nerve impulse strength and slowed movement. The stable microtubules disrupt normal cellular processes, including the formation of the Golgi complex.

New chemistry techniques improve hybrid scanner performance

Researchers have developed a new fully integrated PET/MRI system that can provide whole-body images of rats and small animals. The system offers significant improvements in imaging capabilities, enabling increased understanding of disease characteristics and physiological processes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

They are young and need the job: A second chance for dangerous T cells

Researchers found that young autoreactive T-cells are more receptive to reeducation into regulatory T-cells. In contrast, older T-cells become fully activated and cause damage. Understanding the developmental stage of T-cells holds promise for developing new therapies for autoimmune diseases.

Extended service contracts: When and why do people buy them?

Researchers found that people are more likely to buy Extended Service Contracts for hedonic products like game controllers, which hold value due to the pain of potential loss. Price promotions also play a role, with low-income consumers more likely to purchase ESCs as they cannot afford replacements.

New issue of Reproductive Health Matters on task shifting

The new issue of Reproductive Health Matters highlights the need for comprehensive efforts to strengthen public health systems and create a well-trained workforce. Mid-level providers are willing to take on increased workloads, raising questions about quality of care and financial remuneration.

U of Alberta study discovers how proteins help repair DNA

Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered how proteins recognize and repair damaged DNA. The proteins bend the DNA double helix to amplify damage recognition, enabling the next protein to cut out the damaged section. This process can be used to develop new cancer treatments and disease prevention strategies.

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.

Major breakthrough in early detection and prevention of AMD

A team of researchers led by Dr. Jayakrishna Ambati at the University of Kentucky has discovered a biological marker for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The marker, CCR3, shows strong potential as a means for both early detection and preventive treatment.

The anti-consumption movement: Researchers examine resistance to global brands

A study in Journal of Consumer Research found that India's anti-Coca-Cola movement employs nationalism and swadeshi ideology, invoking imagery of foreign invasion and exploitation. The authors argue that global brands can become symbols of oppression, with implications for multinational corporations and policy makers.

RNA snippet suppresses spread of aggressive breast cancer

Researchers at Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research discovered a microRNA, miR-31, that inversely correlates with metastasis in breast cancer. Increasing miR-31 levels can help predict patient prognoses and potentially aid in the development of targeted therapies.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Therapeutic delivery of a gene to dysfunctional nerves

Researchers have developed a gene delivery approach to target therapeutic genes to nerves in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), a region affected in various sensory neuronopathies. This method, using helper-dependent adenoviruses, was found to be more efficient at delivering genes to DRG nerves compared to nontargeted versions.

Milwaukee swine flu testing results published

Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin published first paper describing Milwaukee's largest swine origin influenza (H1N1) outbreak in June 2009. The study identified 679 adults and children with S-OIV infection, making up 18.2% of all tested individuals.

Colleges, communities combat off-campus student drinking

A new study suggests that college-community cooperation programs can help reduce heavy episodic drinking, with a Western Washington University program showing a decline in student binge drinking. The findings highlight the importance of collaboration between colleges and their surrounding neighborhoods to combat problem drinking.

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.

JCI online early table of contents: June 15, 2009

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have developed a system to target therapeutic genes to nerves in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), showing dramatic efficiency in gene delivery compared to nontargeted adenoviruses. In mice lacking the Hexb gene, administration of DRG-targeted helper-dependent adenoviruses carrying the Hexb gene ...

Distributed security

Researchers suggest a new paradigm for coping with cybercrime by shifting focus from punishment to deterrence and prevention. Individuals must recognize their own front-line defense against cybercrime and work together to build and maintain defenses.

Scientists break light modulation speed record -- twice

Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a light-emitting transistor that sets a new record for signal-processing modulation speed, reaching 4.3 GHz. By reconfiguring the device as a tilted-charge light-emitting diode, researchers were able to break the 7 GHz barrier.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

UCLA cancer researchers develop model that may help identify cancer stem cells

Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed a unique model to isolate and study lung cancer stem cells. The model uses patient specimens and autologous tumor microenvironments to identify markers associated with cancer stem cells, providing proof-of-concept for the existence of these cells in lung cancer.

Could hormones explain gender differences in neurological disease?

Research suggests that estrogens acting through their receptors affect the dopamine transporter, which may explain trends in timing of women's susceptibility to these diseases. Estrogen levels vary significantly at different life stages, and women are more likely to experience neurological disease onset or exacerbation during these times.

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.

PET scans may improve accuracy of dementia diagnosis

A new study presents PET scan results that can accurately diagnose specific types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease, in the early stages. This can lead to targeted treatments and improved care outcomes for over 5 million newly diagnosed patients each year.

GARP makes the difference

Scientists have identified a molecular factor called GARP that plays an essential role in regulatory T cell function. By artificially inserting GARP into transplants, researchers were able to convert immune-reactive T cells into regulatory T cells, which inhibit organ rejection.

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 exotic material could revolutionize electronics

Physicists have confirmed the existence of a type of material that enables free flow of electrons across its surface with no loss of energy at room temperatures. The discovery of bismuth telluride as a topological insulator could lead to new applications in spintronics and microchip development.

Dangerous college drinking: Prevention is possible, studies suggest

A series of studies published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that college prevention programs can effectively reduce heavy episodic drinking and other alcohol-related problems. The programs included counseling for individual students, neighborhood-based initiatives, and community engagement efforts.

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.

Hybrid scanner brings molecular functioning to the forefront

Researchers at SNM's 56th Annual Meeting propose a novel approach to reconstructing data that could enable the development of a hybrid PET-MR system. The new method uses MR images as a geometrical reference to estimate attenuation and improve accuracy.

MIT: Peeling stickers may lead to stretchable electronics

A team of MIT researchers has developed a new approach to designing stretchable electronics by studying the delamination of stickers, which can lead to damage in twisted materials. By controlling the strength of adhesion and elastic properties, they can create devices that allow wires to move with the material without breaking.

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.

SPECT provides high-quality images of small tumors

Researchers found that combining high-resolution and high-sensitivity collimation in SPECT scans improves image quality for small tumors. This study suggests a new approach to overcome tradeoffs in SPECT image quality, especially for imaging small tumors.

Not 1, but 2 kinds of males found in the invasive round goby

Researchers at McMaster University found two types of males in the invasive round goby, including nest-guarding males and sneaker males that parasitize conventional males. This discovery may help scientists understand how to tackle the infestation of Great Lakes watersheds.

Prototype breast cancer imaging system may improve patient care

Researchers at SNM's 56th Annual Meeting present a prototype breast imaging system combining positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies. The system aims to provide highly sensitive and specific breast cancer examinations while compensating for the shortcomings of individual PET or MRI systems.

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.

College drinking problems, deaths on the rise

A recent government study reveals a rise in college drinking problems, including heavy episodic drinking, drunk driving, and alcohol-related deaths. The study found that these issues are particularly prevalent among students aged 21-24.

Mapping gene expression with Gene Expression Atlas

The Gene Expression Atlas collates data from over 1000 studies, providing insights into gene function and development of new drugs. The resource allows users to query gene expression under various conditions, enabling researchers to identify key genes in specific diseases.

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.

Mean new microRNA data analysis method gives sharper results

A novel method has been developed to analyze microRNA expression levels, enabling more accurate detection of subtle biological changes. The new approach outperforms existing methods in reducing technical variation and accurately representing input RNA fluctuations.

Meteorite grains divulge Earth's cosmic roots

New research using meteorite grains reveals that the material incorporated into Earth's planets and life has younger cosmic roots than previously thought. The study found that most of these grains spent less time in interstellar space than estimated, with some as young as 3 million years old.

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.

Young adults not drinking enough milk

A study found that young adults decreased their calcium and dairy product intake as they entered their twenties, which can lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis. The researchers suggest that interventions targeting families and adolescents should encourage milk consumption at meals and promote healthy eating habits.

Knee replacements: Pinpointing the cause of infection

Researchers at the SNM's 56th Annual Meeting found that PET scans can accurately diagnose infections in prosthetic knee joints, outperforming traditional methods. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients undergoing joint replacements.

Protein regulates movement of mitochondria in brain cells

Scientists identified a protein that regulates mitochondrial movement in brain cells, shedding light on how the brain recovers from stroke. Understanding this mechanism may help identify novel approaches for preventing and treating neurological disorders.

Newborn weights affected by environmental contaminants

A new study has revealed a significant decrease in the sex difference in birth weight due to growing endocrine disruption related to environmental contaminants. The study found that exposure to contaminants in plastic materials may be responsible for this phenomenon.

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.