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Science News Archive 2009


Page 153 of 277

The freebie dilemma: Consumers are skeptical about 'free' products

Researchers found that bundling two products together and describing one as free leads consumers to devalue individual items. This effect, known as the 'freebie devaluation' effect, occurs because consumers make inferences about product quality based on the perceived value of the free item.

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.

Sediment yields climate record for past half-million years

Scientists have created a high-resolution climate record from ocean sediment dating back over 500,000 years, revealing four glacial cycles and the warming of North Atlantic waters. The record provides valuable insights into the extent of ancient ice sheets and their impact on ocean currents.

Study suggests new approach to common cause of blindness

Researchers have discovered a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of age-related macular degeneration by blocking the activity of the CCR3 protein. This approach shows promise as a safer and more effective alternative to current treatments, which target vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Research supports World Blood Donor Day message on blood safety

Research by Carol Grayson highlights the risks of paid blood donors and the need for an open and safe blood policy to prevent patients from contracting blood-borne infections. The study found that successive UK governments failed to prioritize self-sufficiency in blood products, leading to the contamination of blood supplies.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Good news and bad for dad this Father's Day

A new study from the University of Utah Health discovers that sperm delivers more complex genetic material than previously thought, which may promote healthy baby development. The research also raises concerns about how a man's aging, health, and lifestyle affect fertility and embryo development.

Michael R. Kilbourn receives SNM's 2009 Aebersold Award

Michael R. Kilbourn, a professor at the University of Michigan, received the prestigious Paul C. Aebersold Award for his contributions to molecular imaging and nuclear medicine. He has advanced research efforts in various areas, including positron emission tomography (PET) radiopharmaceuticals.

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.

A tiny frozen microbe may hold clues to extraterrestrial life

Researchers have found a novel bacterium, Herminiimonas glaciei, trapped under glacial ice in Greenland for over 120,000 years. The tiny microbe, 10-50 times smaller than E. coli, has survived in extreme conditions and may provide insights into extraterrestrial life.

Advance in understanding cellulose synthesis

A study published in Nature Cell Biology has shed light on the protein network that provides scaffolding for cell-wall structure and delivers growth-promoting molecules. The research discovered a novel mechanism by which microtubules guide cellulose synthase complexes to their place of action.

SNM honors originators of imaging agent for nuclear heart stress test

Alan Davison, Alun G. Jones, and Michael J. Abrams discovered a new class of technetium complexes that showed localization in cardiac tissue after intravenous administration, leading to the development of myocardial perfusion imaging agents. Their work has enabled millions of people to receive better diagnosis and treatment for heart c...

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.

Huntington's disease deciphered

The study reveals that the mutated huntingtin gene activates JNK3 enzyme, inhibiting axonal transport and leading to neuronal cell death. The mechanism explains the late onset of the disease, as young neurons have a robust transport system that gradually declines with age.

The Earth's magnetic field remains a charged mystery

A new study published in New Journal of Physics suggests that the Earth's main magnetic field may be induced by ocean currents, defying previous theories. The researchers found correlations between changes in ocean circulation and geomagnetic secular variation, which could revolutionize our understanding of the magnetosphere.

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.

Prostate cancer test improves prediction of disease course

A new risk assessment test, CAPRA, has been developed to predict long-term risks and pinpoint high-risk cases in prostate cancer. The test accurately predicted bone metastasis, prostate cancer-specific mortality, and all-cause mortality when localized prostate cancer is first diagnosed.

Females are usually at higher risk than males in a maternal history of non-GCs

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that females are at a higher risk of developing gastric cancer than males when their mothers have a history of non-gastric cancer. The research analyzed family histories of 2260 patients with gastric cancer and identified key genetic and environmental factors contributing...

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.

Flexible solar strips light up campus bus shelter

The new flexible solar cell technology installed at McMaster University's bus shelter generates up to 4.5 Watts of power from two solar strips with 720 one-centimetre square cells each. The system captures sunlight during the day and recharges batteries to light the shelter for a significant part of the night.

DKK-3 and WIF-1: Proteins related to liver cancer development?

The study found that DKK-3 and WIF-1 proteins are associated with liver cancer development, suggesting potential as biomarkers for early detection. The research suggests blocking this pathway may improve treatment options for liver cancer through further study.

Urban myth disproved: Fingerprints do not improve grip friction

Researchers Ennos and Warman found that fingerprints do not increase friction between the skin and objects, contrary to a long-held theory. In fact, the ridges in fingerprints can reduce skin contact and even loosen grip, making them less useful for grip than previously thought.

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.

Team effort needed to report on science, U of Alberta study says

A team of experts emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to science reporting, citing diminishing public trust in biomedicine and biotech research. The study proposes eight recommendations to enhance public understanding and confidence in scientific information.

AIAA to present 5 awards at June conference

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics will present five awards at the 39th AIAA Fluid Dynamics Conference, recognizing outstanding contributions to various fields such as aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, plasmadynamics, thermophysics, and aerospace engineering. The honorees include Jubaraj Sahu, Parvis Moin, Charles Clend...

AMS June science highlights

The American Meteorological Society (AMS) is showcasing recent advancements in hurricane forecasting, climate trends, and the long-term impact of CO2 emissions. A new study reveals improved forecast capabilities, while another paper examines the causes of seasonal and regional climate trends over the United States.

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.

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 study reveals structure of the HIV protein shell

Scientists have revealed the structure of the HIV protein shell, providing a close-up look at its unique honeycomb arrangement. The discovery may help identify new ways to block HIV infection and develop novel therapeutic strategies.

Manatees can probably hear which directions boats approach from

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Biology found that manatees can probably hear which directions boats approach from. The animals were able to pinpoint sound sources, including both high- and low-pitched sounds, using a combination of time difference and intensity cues.

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.

'Weather's Greatest Mysteries Solved!'

This book delves into the science of climate study and its impact on human societies, exploring how weather has influenced civilizations throughout history. The author uses a detective story approach to examine the role of weather in shaping human societies, from ancient Sahara to modern-day New York City.

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.

Efficiency is poor at Spanish airports

Research at Spanish airports reveals poor efficiency levels, mainly caused by excessive decentralization of services, leading to missed opportunities for cost savings and increased production. The study suggests concentrating airport operations in a single site to achieve economies of scale.

Zebra mussels hang on while quagga mussels take over

Research by Suzanne Peyer reveals that zebra mussels' ability to produce strong 'byssal threads' enables them to attach securely in fast-moving waters, outperforming quagga mussels. This adaptation allows zebra mussels to thrive in rivers and streams, whereas quagga mussels are more commonly found in calm lake waters.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Over half of people with rheumatoid arthritis have periodontitis

Over half of people with rheumatoid arthritis also have periodontitis, displaying fewer teeth and higher disease activity. Anti-TNF therapy improves periodontal status in RA patients, suggesting a link between the two conditions. Periodontitis may be a risk factor for developing RA, especially in non-smokers.

An alternative treatment for hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma

Researchers evaluated percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PAA) as an alternative to conventional RFA in treating hypervascular HCC. The study found that PAA significantly reduced post-RFA recurrence and improved treatment outcomes, making it a promising new approach for this patient population.

Hear! Hear! Texas wines fight cancer growth

Research by Dr. Susanne Talcott found that extracts from Texas red wines decreased cancer cell growth in a comparable magnitude as other wines previously studied. The study suggests that moderate consumption of Texas wine may offer similar health benefits to those from other regions.

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.

Dual role in breast tissue for a protein involved in leukemia

Researchers found that Stat5a protein has a mixed function in breast cancer development, promoting growth of certain precancerous lesions but also protecting mammary cells from carcinogenic exposure. The study highlights the importance of understanding breast cancer heterogeneity when testing new therapeutic targets.

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.