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Science News Archive 2009


Page 272 of 277

A case of mistaken dino-identity

A Texas state dinosaur is facing a name change after research revealed it was misidentified as Pleurocoelus. The new species, Paluxysaurus jonesi, was discovered by Southern Methodist University scientist Peter Rose, who studied sauropod bones in central Texas.

Also in the Jan. 13 JNCI

Researchers found that lapatinib delayed tumor development and reduced the number of tumors in a mouse model of hormone receptor-negative breast cancer. Lapatinib is a small-molecule inhibitor that blocks tyrosine kinase activities associated with tumor formation.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study examines burden of diabetes on US hospitals

A new study published in Value in Health estimates that Americans with diabetes had nearly 22% of hospital charges in 2005, totaling $171 billion. The study also found that individuals with type 1 diabetes were more likely to be hospitalized than those with type 2 diabetes.

Small changes can lead to big rewards, says ASN president

According to ASN President James O. Hill, PhD, small changes in diet and physical activity can prevent weight gain and reduce the magnitude of the obesity problem. Examples of such small changes include taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking extra 2,000 steps a day, and reducing food portion size by 5%.

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.

'Smart scaffolds' may help heal broken hearts

Researchers developed an organic substance that attracts and supports cells necessary for tissue repair and can be directly injected into problem areas. The 'smart scaffolds' work by containing a protein that allows progenitor cells to adhere to damaged tissue and survive long enough to promote healing.

Evolution of new brain area enables complex movements

A new area of the cerebral cortex has evolved to enable complex movements, such as picking up small objects and using tools, in humans and higher primates. This new area is home to cortico-motoneuronal cells that directly control spinal cord motor neurons, bypassing limitations imposed by spinal cord circuitry.

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.

Study of disease risk suggests ways to avoid slaughter of Yellowstone bison

A new study assesses the risk of disease transmission from Yellowstone bison to cattle and proposes cost-effective management solutions. The alternatives suggested by the study, such as buying grazing rights or testing all cattle within a special zone around the park, highlight substantial benefits and consequences.

From outer space to the eye clinic: New cataract early detection technique

Researchers have developed a non-invasive early detection device for cataracts, detecting subtle protein changes before the lens becomes cloudy. The device uses dynamic light scattering technology and has potential applications in reducing cataract risk through lifestyle changes and preventing age-related eye diseases.

Getting less sleep associated with lower resistance to colds

A study of 153 healthy individuals found that those who slept less than seven hours per night were three times more likely to develop a respiratory illness after exposure to a cold virus. Sleep efficiency was also associated with developing a cold, with lower sleep efficiency increasing the risk by five and a half times.

Nearly a century later, new findings support Warburg theory of cancer

Researchers from Boston College and Washington University School of Medicine report new evidence supporting the original Warburg Theory of Cancer. Abnormalities in cardiolipin content were found in all types of brain tumors, closely associated with significant reductions in energy-generating activities.

How do cells count?

Portuguese scientists identify Slimb molecule controlling centrosome number in cells, associated with disease and cancer. Understanding this mechanism offers new avenues for researching tumour development.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers identify potential new weapon in battle against HIV infection

A study published in Blood journal reveals that individuals with rare blood type Pk are more resistant to HIV infection, while those without it are more susceptible. This discovery paves the way for new therapeutic approaches to induce HIV resistance and promote further understanding of the pandemic.

Girls twice as likely as boys to remain victims of bullying

Research from the University of Warwick and University of Hertfordshire found girls are two and a half times more likely to remain bullied at age ten than boys. The study also revealed that relational victimization increases as children grow older.

Elderly may have higher blood pressure in cold weather

A study found that elderly individuals have a higher risk of hypertension during colder months, with average systolic blood pressure 5 millimeters of mercury higher in winter than summer. Blood pressure decreases over time are also strongly correlated with outdoor temperature, particularly in participants aged 80 and older.

Hair of Tasmanian tiger yields genes of extinct species

A team of scientists has successfully sequenced the genes of the Tasmanian Tiger from its hair, revealing insights into mammal extinction and potential ways to prevent it. The study also opens up new possibilities for analyzing museum specimens and could potentially lead to the revival of extinct species.

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.

Of Mice and Peanuts: A new mouse model for peanut allergy

A new mouse model for peanut allergy has been developed by Chicago researchers, mimicking symptoms of a human allergic reaction to peanuts. The model uses a mixture of whole peanut extract and staphylococcal enterotoxin B to stimulate an immune response, producing severe symptoms similar to those found in human anaphylaxis.

Job strain associated with stroke in Japanese men

A study found that job strain is associated with a higher risk of stroke in Japanese men, particularly those with high job demand and low control. The relationship may be mediated by chronic diseases such as obesity and high blood pressure.

Why we procrastinate and how to stop

Researchers found that students who thought abstractly about tasks were more likely to procrastinate, while those who focused on the how, when, and where of doing the task completed assignments sooner. The study suggests that concrete thinking can reduce procrastination.

Soil maps generate reliable Quaternary geologic map

Researchers at Iowa State University used NCSS data to create a detailed Quaternary geologic map of the Des Moines Lobe, achieving strong agreement with existing maps. The map showcases finer detail and user-controllable scale, making it suitable for various disciplines.

Older women less likely than men to be listed for kidney transplants

A study found that women over 45 are significantly less likely to be placed on a kidney transplant list than their male counterparts, even though they have an equal chance of survival. The likelihood of being listed decreased incrementally with increasing age, from 3% for women aged 46-55 to 59% for those over 75.

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.

Antibodies produced within joints in rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers found that tiny structures in the joint lining mimic antibody-producing lymph nodes and support specific antibody production, potentially leading to joint destruction. The processes can occur independently of the body's lymph nodes, suggesting a new treatment modality for rheumatoid arthritis targeting lymphoid structures.

Wireless microgrippers grab living cells in 'biopsy' tests

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have invented wireless microgrippers that can be used to grab and remove living cells from hard-to-reach places. The devices are actuated by thermal or biochemical signals, eliminating the need for electrical wires, tubes, or batteries.

Opioids provide relief from neuropathic pain

A mouse model of neuropathic pain showed that immune cells producing opioids reduced symptoms, suggesting a novel approach for pain relief. Selectively targeting opioid-containing immune cells may provide natural pain relief and offer a new treatment option.

Microscopic morphology adds to the scorpion family tree

Researchers used scanning electron microscopy to study scorpion book lungs, revealing new variation and phylogenetic significance. The findings suggest a significant change in respiratory apparatus evolution early in modern scorpion history.

Research yields new clues to how we locate objects in space

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a novel ultrasound display that allows doctors to view images within the object being scanned, reducing the need for visualization. This innovation improves accuracy in surgeries guided by ultrasound technology, which relies on combining direct perception and visualization.

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.

January-February GSA Bulletin media highlights

The GSA Bulletin features studies on climate change sensitivity, Mars geology, and groundwater flow. Carbon-14 dating of Irish marine mud suggests the ice sheet was highly sensitive to small climate changes.

Tiny capsules deliver

Researchers at Penn State have developed tiny particle syringes that can deliver specific drugs to diseased cells, reducing toxins in the body. The microcapsules are flexible and can be filled with a variety of substances, making them a potential solution for targeted treatment.

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.

A new mechanism regulates type I interferon production in white blood cells

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism that regulates the production of type I interferon, an important protein for clearing viral infections. This mechanism involves a protein-protein interaction between surface receptors on plasmacytoid dendritic cells and class I major histocompatibility complex molecules.

Study: Growth in research comes at a steep price

A study by the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry found that basic science research requires significant institutional support. The study calculated the total expenses for 25 new faculty members and found a shortfall of $39.9 million, requiring additional funding from other sources.

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.

'Museomics' yields new insights into extinct Tasmanian tiger

Researchers sequenced mitochondrial and nuclear DNA from museum specimens of the thylacine, a marsupial that was declared extinct in 1936. The study found little genetic variation between the two specimens, indicating the species was on the brink of extinction when it became extinct.

Hormone therapy linked to brain shrinkage, but not lesions

New studies have found a link between hormone therapy and brain shrinkage in postmenopausal women, with smaller brain volumes in areas involved in thinking and memory skills. However, hormone therapy was not linked to an increase in small vascular lesions or 'silent strokes' that are often the first sign of cerebrovascular disease.

Most heart attack patients' cholesterol levels did not indicate cardiac risk

A new national study shows that nearly 75 percent of patients hospitalized for a heart attack had cholesterol levels within recommended targets, but still at high risk. The study suggests that lowering guideline targets for LDL cholesterol and developing better treatments to raise HDL cholesterol may help reduce the number of patients ...

Discovery provides hope for transplant recipients and AIDS patients

Researchers have identified a negative regulation loop that restricts the ability of T lymphocytes to divide, paving the way for a homeostatic production of CD4+ T lymphocytes. This discovery has major implications for patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, or infected with HIV.

DNA testing may unlock secrets of medieval manuscripts

Researchers are using DNA testing to determine the origins of medieval manuscripts, resolving issues with handwriting and dialect-based dating methods. By analyzing genetic data from parchment skins, scientists can identify similarities between manuscripts and pinpoint their time and place of origin.

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.

From poison to prevention

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed two new vaccine strains using Salmonella typhimurium as an antigen delivery system. These recombinant attenuated Salmonella vaccines (RASVs) trigger a powerful systemic immune response, offering a promising solution to infant bacterial pneumonia. The safety and efficacy of these no...

Primary-care physicians can fill gap in colorectal cancer screening

Researchers found that trained primary care physicians can perform colonoscopies with a low complication rate and high polyp detection rate, comparable to specialists. This fills the gap in colorectal cancer screening as the US population ages and demand for screenings grows.

New technology needed to monitor rain forest 'tsunami'

Scientists estimate that roughly 1.4% of tropical humid forests were deforested between 2000 and 2005, with more than half containing 50% or less tree cover. New remote-sensing technologies are required to monitor the changes caused by selective logging and forest regeneration.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Defying the integration models -- the second generation in Europe

The study found that there is no single answer to integration models, as trends vary across domains and countries. For instance, French second-generation migrants are more likely to attend university but drop out, while German children of Turkish parents face educational disadvantages but have a fair chance at skilled jobs.

Cross-border health programs could reduce maternal and child deaths

A policy promoting cross-border health programs could contribute to reducing maternal and child mortality by leveraging existing resources and addressing interplay of elements within different health systems. Reducing maternal and child mortality requires focus on political, economic, social, and cultural factors.

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.

Lamin B locks up Oct-1

Perturbation of lamin B1-Oct-1 interactions can affect the expression of genes regulated by Oct-1, leading to increased reactive oxygen species production. This could be a key mechanism underlying the aging process.

As super-predators, humans reshape their prey at super-natural speeds

A new study reveals human predation is accelerating trait changes in commercially harvested species, with 20% smaller body sizes and 25% earlier first reproduction compared to previous generations. This process has been observed at a rate 300% above natural systems and 50% faster than other human influences.

Workers exposed to lead show more cognitive problems later in life

A follow-up study found that workers exposed to lead at work showed greater cognitive problems after age 55, even when current blood levels of lead were controlled. The researchers linked cumulative exposure to mild deficits in spatial ability, learning and memory, and overall cognitive score.

JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 12, 2009

Researchers discovered that immune cells producing opioids can alleviate neuropathic pain in mice. Meanwhile, a study found that Vitamin D3 might boost the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies by targeting specific immune cells.

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.

Dirty snow causes early runoff in Cascades, Rockies

A new study finds that soot on snow warms the snow and air by up to 1.2 degrees Fahrenheit, causing snowmelt weeks earlier in spring. This can lead to reduced water supply, aggravate winter flooding and summer droughts.