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Science News Archive 2009 - Page 253


Page 253 of 277

Revolutionary microchip uses 30 times less power

Scientists have created a microchip that uses 30 times less electricity while running seven times faster than today's technology, thanks to probabilistic logic. This technology has significant implications for the IT industry's carbon footprint, potentially reducing energy consumption in devices such as cell phones and medical implants.

Scientists deconstruct cell division

Researchers have identified two proteins, dynein and Nudel, as crucial for regulating the assembly of the spindle matrix during mitosis. This finding broadens our understanding of how cells control critical events during division. Understanding spindle assembly is essential to comprehend cell fate choices and development.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 8, 2009

That gut feeling may actually reflect a reliable memory

A new Northwestern University study uses brain-reading technology to show that people can be more accurate in recognizing familiar images when distracted or guessing than when paying full attention. The research suggests that implicit recognition may play a significant role in everyday decision-making and problem-solving.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 8, 2009

Long-sought protein structure may help reveal how 'gene switch' works

Researchers at NIST and Brookhaven National Laboratory have defined the structure of a metabolic switch found inside most types of bacteria, revealing how a key protein regulates genes involved in bacterial survival. The discovery could lead to new methods for preventing tuberculosis and other pathogenic diseases.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 6, 2009

Cracking a controversial solid state mystery

Scientists at the University of Nottingham and the University of California, Berkeley have provided evidence for a new kind of sudden transition between liquid and solid glass. This transformation occurs when molecules are viewed in both space and time, guiding towards methods for producing stronger and longer-lasting glass.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2009

Losing weight can cure obstructive sleep apnea in overweight patients

A new study shows that losing weight is the most effective way to reduce obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms and associated disorders. The study found that weight loss of more than 20 pounds resulted in markedly lower OSA symptoms and improvements in co-morbidities such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2009

Wireless drug control

Researchers highlight potential security concerns for remote intelligent drug delivery systems, which could compromise patient safety. The team proposes implementing robust security mechanisms to mitigate hacking risks.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Technology·DateFeb 6, 2009

Psychological impact found in adolescents with kidney transplants

A study reveals that adolescents who undergo kidney transplants have a significantly higher prevalence of psychiatric conditions, including depression, phobia, and ADHD. They also experience educational impairment and social isolation. The study highlights the need for routine screening and support to address these challenges.

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Transplantation·DateFeb 5, 2009

Mutant rats resist warfarin

Researchers identified eighteen new genetic changes in rats from four continents that enable resistance to warfarin. VKORC1 gene mutations may cause heritable resistance by preventing coumarin derivatives from interfering with the reductase enzyme activity.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Genetics·DateFeb 5, 2009

Sea level rise could be worse than anticipated

A new study published in Science suggests that a collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet could lead to significantly higher sea level rise than currently projected, with devastating effects on coastal areas and global sea levels. The research takes into account various forces, including gravity, changes in the Earth's rotation, and la...

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2009