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Science News Archive 2009


Page 176 of 277

Study indicates that a common virus could cause high blood pressure

A new study suggests that cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a cause of high blood pressure, a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. The virus can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, when coupled with other risk factors.

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 surprise 'spark' for pre-cancerous colon polyps

A study by University of Utah researchers identified a protein called C-terminal binding protein 1 (CTBP1) as the spark that initiates colon polyp formation. This new information opens possibilities for developing future treatments to prevent tumor progression.

Determining success or failure in cholesterol-controlling drugs

A study by University of California, San Diego researchers found that polypharmacology can explain the failure of cholesterol-controlling drugs like Torcetrapib. By analyzing protein-drug interaction networks, they identified potential off-target effects and proposed a novel computational strategy to design safer pharmaceuticals.

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.

Well-oiled research plans to dip into new reserves

A three-year research partnership aims to improve the characterization of Victoria's sedimentary basins, attracting investment and increasing resource estimates. The project will also enhance understanding of geological carbon dioxide storage and geothermal resources.

Heating heart with catheter better than drugs for common heart rhythm disorder

A recent study found that catheter ablation is more effective than drugs in treating atrial fibrillation, with 63% of patients free of arrhythmias one year after treatment. The procedure involves destroying heart tissue responsible for erratic electrical signals, resulting in improved quality of life and reduced symptoms.

Self-assembly now easier to control

Scientists have successfully regulated the formation of G-quadruplexes by influencing the distance and solution conditions. This controlled self-assembly enables the creation of complex structures with unique characteristics.

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.

Mothers satisfied when they share cancer genetic test results with children

A new study by researchers at the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center found that mothers who disclose their BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic alterations to their children experience a more open parent-child communication relationship. Mothers are more likely to discuss test results with their children, especially when testing reveals no alterat...

Discovery in amber reveals ancient biology of termites

The analysis of a 100-million-year-old termite in amber has revealed the oldest example of mutualism between an animal and microorganism, showing that termites depend on protozoa to digest wood. The study also found new fossil flagellate species, a new species of termite, and other discoveries.

Genes: An extra hurdle to quitting smoking during pregnancy?

Researchers identified a common genetic variant associated with reduced ability to quit smoking during pregnancy. The study found that women carrying the addictive gene were less likely to stop smoking during pregnancy compared to those without it.

Global Uncertainties Fellowships announced

The fellowships will investigate how individuals develop their ideas about security and insecurity, exploring the impact of language, images, and symbolism on risk perception. The programme aims to generate knowledge and develop understanding of global uncertainties, informing effective strategies for prevention and mitigation.

Folic acid to prevent congenital heart defects

Researchers at the McGill University Health Centre found that folic acid fortification in grain products led to a significant decrease in congenital heart defects. The rate of these defects decreased by 6.2% per year after 1999, according to provincial databases.

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.

ACLU -- Myriad Genetics lawsuit will become landmark case

The ACLU is challenging the patentability of two human genes linked to breast and ovarian cancer, alleging that gene patents stifle life science research. The organization claims that the patents are invalid and unconstitutional, with supporters arguing that they would harm patients and limit medical research.

Human nose too cold for bird flu, says new study

Research suggests that avian influenza viruses struggle to grow and spread in the human nose due to its cooler temperature, making it less likely to cause respiratory illness. The study also found that mutated viruses with proteins from avian influenza viruses are unlikely to thrive at human nose temperatures.

CSIRO and BHP Billiton increase collaboration

The collaboration aims to better understand the industry's needs and ensure expertise and capabilities are used effectively. BHP Billiton plans to relocate 15 researchers to the Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies from July 2009.

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Andes Mountains are older than previously believed

Researchers have dated mountain-building events in the eastern Andes range of Colombia to 25 million years ago, contradicting previous estimates of 10-15 million years. This new finding sheds light on the geological history of the region and its importance for understanding ancient animal migration patterns and oil-gas exploration.

Graphene yields secrets to its extraordinary properties

Direct measurement of graphene's energy spectrum reveals unevenly spaced energy levels and a 'zero energy state.' The findings support the idea that graphene layers are uncoupled from adjacent layers due to their unique stacking orientations.

Expert consensus on catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias

The European Society of Cardiology's joint consensus document on catheter ablation for ventricular arrhythmias emphasizes the need for more clinical trials and registries to determine its long-term impact. Key unanswered questions include the efficacy, comparative success rates of drug and ablative therapies.

Mothers give interloper's offspring a head start in life

A new study reveals that mother birds provide an early advantage to extra-pair offspring, giving them a size and survival advantage over their half-siblings. This non-genetic effect is attributed to the laying order of eggs, with extra-pair chicks hatching earlier than within-pair chicks.

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.

Researchers identify key proteins needed for ovulation

The study reveals that ERK1 and ERK2 proteins trigger a chain of chemical sequences that bring about the release of the egg, transformation of granulosa cells into luteal cells, and production of progesterone. The finding has implications for treating infertility and developing new means to prevent pregnancy.

ASN increases knowledge of geriatric kidney disease

The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has developed an online curriculum to educate physicians about managing elderly patients with kidney disease. The curriculum addresses gaps in training and provides a comprehensive resource for geriatric nephrology care.

Avoiding social potholes on your career path

A new study by Dr. Yuval Kalish suggests that some networking strategies can lead to 'social potholes,' harming individuals and businesses. Filling structural holes can bring short-term gains but long-term costs, and authenticity is key for peace-builders.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

U of I study: More support needed for families adopting from foster care

A University of Illinois study found significant declines in professional services and social support for adoptive families over three years, despite parents needing continued assistance. Families require ongoing access to professionals, informal support networks, and peer support to help their children thrive.

Cholesterol-busting bug with a taste for waste

Researchers have isolated a new species of bacteria that can break down cholesterol, a contaminant found in urban sewage residues. The novel organism, Gordonia cholesterolivorans, has the potential to clean up cholesterol-related contamination and could be used for industrial applications.

New fuel cell catalyst uses 2 metals

Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis developed a bimetallic fuel cell catalyst that is two to five times more effective than commercial catalysts. The novel technique enables a cost-effective fuel cell technology with potential for cleaner use of fuels worldwide.

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.

Role for CISD2 gene in human disease and lifespan control

Researchers have developed a mouse model of Wolfram Syndrome, linking CISD2 gene function to mitochondrial integrity and aging. CISD2-deficient mice display premature aging, decreased body weight, and degeneration of optic and muscular tissues.

NYU Langone Medical Center's tip sheet to the 45th Annual Meeting of ASCO

Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center report early promise in animal studies for a novel antiparasitic drug as a potential treatment for metastatic melanoma. Additionally, the study found associations between specific microRNAs and patient survival in metastatic melanoma and early-stage lung cancer.

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.

Urgent care centers: Between the ER and the family doctor

Urgent care centers (UCCs) tend to be open outside of office hours and offer a wider range of services than primary care offices. They have significantly expanded hours of operation and provide services like fracture care, suturing lacerations, and x-rays, more commonly associated with emergency departments.

1 in 5 girls in upper secondary school suffers from school burnout

A study by the Academy of Finland found that up to 20% of female upper secondary school students experience school burnout, characterized by feelings of inadequacy and cynicism. In contrast, enthusiasm for school is a protective factor, predicting successful transitions to further education.

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.

Brain's organization switches as children become adults

A new study reveals that child brains are differently organized than adult brains, but still capable of performing complex cognitive tasks. Researchers found that young brains have localized networks based on physical proximity, which transition to long-distance networks centered on functionality as children mature.

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.

Triple drug combination is promising option to treat metastatic HER2+ breast cancer

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have found a triple drug combination to be an effective and tolerable option for treating metastatic HER2+ breast cancer. The regimen, which combines capecitabine, vinorelbine, and trastuzumab, has shown promising results in reducing tumor size and improving survival rates compared to traditional treatments.

Exhibition showcases the 'art of science'

The exhibition features 48 works chosen from over 200 submissions, highlighting the aesthetic value of scientific images. The online gallery allows public voting for the 'people's choice' award, with cash prizes awarded to top three entrants.

DNA gripped in nanopores

A team of researchers used nanopores to investigate the movement of DNA in a gel, finding that larger pores reduce resistance and calculations based solely on electrostatic forces did not accurately predict results. The study's unique combination of techniques offers promising developments in single molecule techniques.

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.

Educational initiatives improve quality of care delivery

A study by Fox Chase Cancer Center found that targeted educational initiatives improved the number of lymph nodes retrieved during colorectal cancer surgery. The interventions increased the percentage of operations with at least 12 nodes removed over four years, leading to more accurate staging and improved survival for patients.

MDC researchers unravel key mechanism in pathogenesis of osteoporosis

MDC researchers have elucidated a molecular mechanism that regulates the equilibrium between bone formation and bone resorption. They found that two different forms of a gene switch – LAP and LIP – determine this process. The study suggests that an imbalance in the ratio between these two isoforms may play a role in osteoporosis.

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.