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Science News Archive 2009


Page 209 of 277

Keep on spinning

Scientists at Berkeley Lab create two-dimensional electron gas with controlled spin state, exhibiting persistent spin helix with infinite lifetime. This discovery could lead to more efficient spin transistors and other devices.

Making the list -- disparities in kidney transplant waiting lists

A recent study found that distance from a patient's home to the nearest transplant facility has no bearing on whether an individual is placed on the transplant waiting list. However, the research identified neighborhood poverty as a key factor associated with disparities in waitlisting, particularly for black patients.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Health choices predict cancer survival, U-M study finds

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that health choices at diagnosis play a major role in head and neck cancer survival. Patients with better habits such as not smoking, exercising regularly, eating enough fruits, and limiting alcohol use had longer survival times.

UCLA scientists identify gene linked to deadly disorder in newborns

Researchers at UCLA have identified a gene mutation responsible for short-rib polydactyly syndrome, a deadly disorder that kills newborn babies. The discovery will allow for earlier testing of embryos at risk for the disease, potentially saving lives and reducing the emotional burden on families.

Waste not, want not

Researchers in Japan investigate three technologies for heat recovery: latent heat, reaction heat, and thermoelectric devices. They find that high-temperature waste heat with adequate exergy value exists in many industries, offering effective ways to recover waste heat.

Last step leading to blood cell formation elucidated

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered the last step leading to blood cell formation, which has important implications for the development of new therapies. The study found that a special type of endothelial cell can transform into blood cells, providing a key insight into the mechanisms of hematopoiesis.

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.

Targeting specific disease-causing bacteria in the mouth

Researchers developed a targeted antibiotic to kill Porphyromonas gingivalis, a cause of gum disease, without harming other beneficial bacteria. This approach aims to provide new treatments for oral diseases and prevent drug resistance.

Relocation, relocation, relocation

A mathematical algorithm has been devised to address population relocation due to climate change, taking into account various costs and planning priorities. The multi-objective optimization approach aims to ensure fair and economically viable relocation decisions.

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.

New studies examine elimination of hepatitis B and C

Two new studies explore ways to clear hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) from patients' bodies. Researchers found that HBV superinfection can lead to clearance of HCV in chronic HCV patients, while interferon-based therapies show promise for treating chronic HBV.

Researchers discover new fat-fighting pathway

A new process controlling cell fat storage has been discovered, which could lead to novel drugs for metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease. The study found that autophagy regulates lipid metabolism, and disrupting this process can contribute to diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Lithium protects brain cells during cranial radiation

A new study reveals that lithium promotes DNA repair in irradiated mice, protecting nerves in the hippocampus by decreasing double-strand DNA breaks. Targeted therapies to enhance DNA repair may provide an avenue for future therapeutic development.

Study: White wine can make tooth stains darker

Researchers found that drinking white wine can lead to darker tooth stains due to acids creating rough spots and grooves. Red wine still causes more severe staining than white wine, but a whitening toothpaste can help prevent both types of stains.

Procedure improves health of cancer patients

A novel hemodialysis procedure called high cut-off hemodialysis has been shown to restore kidney function and increase lifespan in patients with multiple myeloma, a form of cancer that causes severe kidney failure. In a study of 19 patients who underwent the procedure while receiving chemotherapy, 70% became independent of dialysis.

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.

Omega-3 kills cancer cells

DHA reduces tumour size and enhances chemotherapy's effects while limiting its harmful side effects, according to a new study. The researchers call for greater deployment of omega-3s in the fight against cancer.

Breast cancer: To screen or not to screen?

Researchers found that breast cancer screening's life-saving benefit gradually increases with age, but the majority of women do not need regular mammograms to save lives. The study estimated that around 1 in 5,000 women will be saved by screening between ages 40-59.

Scripps scientists help decode mysterious green glow of the sea

Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography have discovered that marine fireworms use bioluminescence for both attracting mates and as a defense mechanism to distract predators. The study found that the light is stable in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius and resilient in low oxygen levels.

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.

Healing a shoulder separation

Mid-level shoulder separations, also known as acromioclavicular joint injuries, are common athletic injuries. Nonsurgical treatment is often favored for type III injuries, but surgical reconstruction may be recommended for certain patients with persistent instability. Both approaches require rehabilitation to restore motion and strength.

Breakthrough made in energy efficiency, use of waste heat

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new cooling system that can improve the energy efficiency of diesel engines by using waste heat. The system has shown improved efficiencies of 20-30 percent in situations where cooling is needed, and may be used to provide air conditioning or electricity.

Source of major health benefits in olive oil revealed

Researchers found that DHPEA-EDA protects red blood cells from damage, providing greatest protection against heart attack and stroke. The study suggests virgin olive oils contain higher levels of this compound, which could lead to the production of functional oils designed to reduce heart disease risk.

Medication may improve portal hypertension

A study found that sorafenib dramatically improved the condition of rats with portal hypertension, reducing new blood vessel growth and improving liver function. The results suggest that sorafenib may be an effective therapeutic agent for treating advanced portal hypertension.

Health benefits, consequences of folic acid dependent on circumstances

Research suggests that folate intake can have dual positive and negative effects, with adequate intake offering protection against cancer but excessive amounts facilitating tumor growth. The optimal level of folate intake varies depending on the individual's specific circumstances, highlighting the need for tailored guidelines.

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.

Combat injuries: A matter of life and death

A recent study highlights the importance of prompt medical intervention in combat injuries, where timely surgical care can significantly improve survival rates. Orthopaedic surgeons are at the forefront of this effort, providing treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage and promote optimal function.

UCI researchers find new way to fight cocaine addiction

Researchers at UCI found that blocking melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) in the brain's pleasure center limits cocaine cravings. MCH works with dopamine to create an addictive response to cocaine use. By targeting MCH, new treatments may help break addiction to cocaine and possibly other drugs.

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.

The more oral bacteria, the higher the risk of heart attack, UB study shows

A University at Buffalo study reveals that two oral pathogens, but the total number of germs, are associated with an increased risk of heart attack. The study found that patients harbored more periodontal bacteria than controls, and that an increase in the number of different species also elevated heart attack odds.

News from the April 2009 Journal of the American Dietetic Association

A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that vegetarians, especially adolescents and young adults, are at a higher risk of binge eating and extreme weight-control behaviors. However, current vegetarians tend to eat healthier diets and have a lower risk of obesity.

Balancing hormones may help prevent preterm births

A new study suggests that balancing two types of estrogen and a hormone in the placenta can signal labor. Researchers found that when estradiol (E2) and estriol (E3) are in balance, there is no drive to labor, but an imbalance leads to the onset of labor.

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.

Accurate assessment of heart disease leads to earlier, more aggressive therapy

A study published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that myocardial perfusion testing with gated single photon emission computed tomography (gated SPECT) is a more accurate predictor of prognosis in chronic ischemic heart disease. Gated SPECT identified individuals at risk for future cardiac events, enabling early initiation of ...

April Geosphere media highlights

Scientists investigate possible tectonic cycling of serpentized peridotites in the Mariana forearc, connect Saddle Mountain and Seattle faults, and improve fractured carbonate-reservoir characterization with remote sensing. Seismic reflection profiles also define Grenville-age rift system and foreland basins beneath Phanerozoic sediments.

2009 Signature Genomic Laboratories Travel Award winner announced

Dr. Kathy M. Chun, Director of Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics at North York General Hospital, is the recipient of the 2009 Signature Genomic Laboratories Travel Award. The award recognizes outstanding young researchers in medical genetics and covers travel costs to the ACMG meeting.

Dealing with dwarfism

Early diagnosis and treatment of achondroplasia's manifestations can produce better outcomes for patients later in life. This includes addressing stenosis of the foramen magnum and thoracolumbar kyphosis, which can cause developmental delays and spinal deformities.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Light reveals breast tumor oxygen status

Duke University researchers developed a light-based system to analyze tumor oxygen levels, helping oncologists choose effective treatments. The system uses diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and can provide immediate feedback during biopsies.

How probiotics can prevent disease

Researchers used probiotics to protect animals from diseases such as mastitis and salmonellosis, demonstrating their potential to prevent and treat human diseases. The study identified specific bacterial species and mechanisms of action that could lead to the development of new treatments.

Humans may be losers if technological nature replaces the real thing

A study by University of Washington psychologists explores the effects of interacting with technological nature on human connections with nature. The researchers found that while technological nature can provide some benefits, it lacks the depth and social connections offered by natural interactions.

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.

Ophthalmology research news April 2009

The study found a 95.4% patient satisfaction rate for LASIK procedures, confirming its status as a successful elective surgery. In contrast, patients who used combined inhaled and oral steroids were found to have an elevated risk of developing cataracts, particularly posterior subcapsular cataract.

A new test for a deadly fungal infection in patients with damaged immune systems

A new test for invasive aspergillosis (IA) has been developed to detect the deadly fungal infection in patients with damaged or suppressed immune systems. The test uses a monoclonal antibody that binds to a glycoprotein antigen secreted by Aspergillus species, distinguishing it from similar molecules found in antibiotics and foodstuffs.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Doctors identify patients at high risk of C. difficile

A new study identifies a clinical prediction rule that can accurately predict patients most likely to benefit from measures to prevent recurrent C. difficile infection, which has become the leading known cause of hospital-acquired infectious diarrhea in developed countries.

Suppressing the compulsion to steal

Researchers found that naltrexone, an opiate receptor blocker, reduced the urges to steal and stealing behavior in individuals with kleptomania after eight weeks of treatment. The study suggests a potential link between kleptomania and substance addictions, highlighting the drug's efficacy in treating impulse control disorders.

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.

Rutgers selected to co-lead Homeland Security research center

Rutgers and Purdue universities will receive up to $30 million over six years to conduct research on information technologies for homeland security. The Rutgers team, led by DIMACS, will focus on data sciences, while Purdue's visualization sciences team will lead the other part of the center.

UBC study first to show evolution's impact on ecosystems

A UBC study has shown that different species of three-spine stickleback fish can significantly impact their aquatic ecosystems within 11 weeks. The researchers created mini-ecosystems in tanks with varying species and found substantial differences in dissolved organic carbon levels, affecting plant growth and sunlight penetration.

Carbon capture has a sparkling future

Researchers have found that underground water is a major sink for carbon dioxide in gas fields, storing it safely for millions of years. This breakthrough could improve the accuracy of computer models used for carbon capture and storage, a crucial approach to reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.

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.