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Science News Archive December 2009


Page 19 of 21

Novel carbon-trading scheme could stop large-scale extinctions

A new strategy proposes a biodiversity-focused approach to reduce carbon emissions from deforestation, favoring high-biodiversity nations in Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean. This approach has been shown to contribute more to slowing biodiversity loss than traditional carbon-based credit scenarios.

Major impacts of climate change expected on mental health

Climate change is projected to exacerbate existing mental illness and increase overall burden of mental disorder worldwide. This is due to factors such as natural disasters, heat-related deaths, and mass migration, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Researchers demonstrate a better way for computers to 'see'

Researchers from Harvard and MIT demonstrate a new method to build better artificial visual systems by combining genetic screening techniques with high-performance gaming hardware. The approach enables the analysis of thousands of candidate models in parallel, resulting in significant improvements over traditional methods.

Lizards change their diet to avoid predators

Researchers found that lizards change their diet from ants to other prey when threatened by predators, as they move less and catch less mobile prey. The species' diet data showed a significant reduction in seed consumption and an increase in diverse food sources.

Targeted breast ultrasound can reduce biopsies for women under 40

Two studies found targeted ultrasound effective in distinguishing between cancerous and benign masses in young women, reducing the need for biopsies and expensive diagnostic procedures. The procedure's low malignancy rates among women under 30 make it a safer alternative to surgery or needle biopsy.

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.

Patients can safely skip pre-surgery stress tests and beta blockers

According to a University of Michigan report, physicians can safely skip pre-surgery stress tests and beta blockers for patients with stable heart disease. This change could save lives and reduce costs by 50-70%. The new guidelines recommend reserving these medications for high-risk patients undergoing complicated surgeries.

'Smell of old books' offers clues to help preserve them

Scientists developed a nondestructive 'sniff' test that analyzes gases emitted from old books and documents, identifying 15 VOCs as markers for paper degradation. This method preserves prized paper-based objects without destroying them.

HPV vaccine offers sustained protection beyond 6 years

The HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine (Cervarix) induces a strong and sustained antibody response and has a favourable safety profile. Vaccine efficacy against incident infection with HPV-16/18 was 95% and against 12-month persistent infection was 100%.

New CRC screening combination increases detection by 10 percent

A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that combining sigmoidoscopy and fecal immunochemical test (FIT) improves CRC detection by 10 percent. This combination is particularly useful for communities with limited colonoscopy access, as it allows for more effective screening of advanced proximal tumors.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The hidden lives of proteins

A Brandeis study directly visualizes protein structures crucial for enzyme catalysis at high-energy states, suggesting new molecular sites for potential drug targets. The research reveals the importance of protein dynamics in enzyme function, offering insights into protein function and potential avenues for targeted drug design.

Music and speech based on human biology

Research at Duke University reveals that music scales are based on the physics of the human voice, mirroring speech's emotional content. This study provides new insights into why humans appreciate music, suggesting it mimics speech's emotional expression.

Study finds logging effects vary based on a forest's history, climate

Researchers at Purdue University found that the recovery of understory plants from logging depends on a forest's history and climate. The study, published in Forest Ecology and Management, suggests that forests with similar climate conditions can recover differently from logging due to their past disturbances.

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.

Discovery makes brain tumor cells more responsive to radiation

Duke University researchers have found a way to increase the effectiveness of radiation therapy against glioma brain tumors by blocking a specific signaling pathway in cancer stem cells. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with glioblastoma and other brain cancers.

Stevens team wins First Place in ISPE Student Poster Competition

A team of undergraduate students from Stevens Institute of Technology won the top honors in a national poster contest, presented their research on a Posterior Criciate Ligament Tensioning Device. The team's achievement showcases the university's commitment to innovation and research.

Ecstasy may be linked to sleep apnea

Recreational ecstasy users may be at a higher risk for sleep apnea due to the damage caused by the drug on brain neurons related to serotonin. The study found that ecstasy users had over eight times the risk of sleep apnea compared to non-users, with longer use associated with increased episodes.

Waterpipe tobacco smokers inhale same toxicants as cigarette smokers

A study led by Virginia Commonwealth University researcher found that waterpipe tobacco smokers are exposed to the same toxicants as cigarette smokers, including carbon monoxide and nicotine. The study, which compared waterpipe and cigarette smoking under controlled conditions, showed that waterpipe smokers inhale more smoke than cigar...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Toy recall of 2007 hurt innocent companies

A new study found that toy recalls in 2007 had a ripple effect on the industry, with even non-recalled companies experiencing a 25% decline in Christmas season sales. Sales of toys from manufacturers named in the recalls dropped by 30%, while those from unaffected companies remained unaffected.

Discovery of the Jekyll-and-Hyde factors in 'coral bleaching'

Researchers have identified three chemicals – betaine, glutamate, and succinate – produced by a bacterium that cause coral bleaching. These substances are involved in the transformation of harmless marine bacteria into killers that choke off corals' energy supply.

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.

Obesity will snuff out health benefits gained by smoking declines

A study by University of Michigan and Harvard researchers found that despite declines in smoking rates, the US population is experiencing a rise in obesity, which is overtaking the health benefits gained from quitting smoking. The study suggests that if current trends continue, nearly half of the population will be obese by 2020.

Alcohol companies target youths with magazine ads, new study shows

A new study published in Journal of Adolescent Health found that alcohol companies disproportionately advertise to youth through magazines with high youth readership. In magazines with high youth readership, youth alcoholic beverage types were more than four times more likely to be advertised.

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.

Hope for patients with type 2 diabetes

A new Saint Louis University research suggests that individuals with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease have a more favorable prognosis when properly managed with medical care. The BARI 2D trial found significant improvements in treatment outcomes for patients receiving intensive medical therapy or bypass surgery.

Ecstasy use may lead to sleep apnea

A recent study by Johns Hopkins scientists suggests that repeated ecstasy use significantly raises the risk of developing sleep apnea in otherwise healthy young adults. The researchers found that the more participants had used MDMA in the past, the more severe their apnea was likely to be.

New guidelines for treating complicated skin and soft tissue infections

Complicated skin and soft tissue infections (cSSTIs) require prompt treatment to prevent tissue destruction and minimize mortality. The new guidelines emphasize the importance of rapid diagnosis and initiation of antibiotic therapy, including surgical debridement for necrotizing infections.

Latest epidemic? High cholesterol, obesity in fruit flies

Recent studies in fruit flies have identified a nuclear receptor that plays a critical role in regulating cholesterol levels, similar to humans. The findings suggest that fruit flies can teach humans about their own regulatory mechanisms for maintaining proper balances of cholesterol and stored fat.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

King crab family bigger than ever

Four new species of deep-sea king crabs were formally described, expanding the total number of known species to 113. The new discoveries reveal that king crabs are found in most world oceans at depths between 500 and 1500 meters.

Strong regional climatic fluctuations in the tropics

Researchers have identified 11,500-year patterns of wet and dry phases in tropical East Africa, linked to changes in solar radiation and Earth's axial rotation. These fluctuations had a significant impact on regional climate change, highlighting the importance of hydrological variations.

TGen team honored for best paper at scientific conference

A TGen team won a $1,000 prize for their research on identifying microRNAs and imaging features associated with lung cancer metastasis to the brain. The study used microRNAs and imaging characteristics from CT and PET scans as biomarkers to predict brain metastases.

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.

Videos can help cancer patients choose level of care they prefer

Researchers found that patients who watched a video illustrating options for end-of-life care were significantly more likely to prefer comfort measures only and decline CPR compared to those in the control group. The study showed that videos can help surmount communication barriers and reinforce patient/doctor discussions.

Distrust of men doesn't stall low-income mothers' romantic unions

Despite general distrust of men, low-income mothers in a study found they can form trusting relationships by compartmentalizing or suspending their trust behaviors. However, these alternative forms of trust often lead to unhealthy partnerships with serious implications for women and their children.

New company enters growing brain fitness market

A new company, Cogniciti, is being formed by Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care and MaRS to develop brain fitness products. The company will produce games, training protocols, and corporate training programs grounded in 20 years of aging brain research.

Rural America more prosperous than expected

A recent study at the University of Illinois found that much of rural America is prosperous, particularly in the Midwest and Plains. Prosperous communities have higher education rates, lower unemployment and poverty rates, and better housing conditions than other rural areas.

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.

Brandeis studies evaluate visionary approach to improving eyesight

A novel scleral lens has been shown to improve vision and quality of life for patients with severe cornea or ocular surface disease. The Boston Ocular Surface Prosthesis (BOS-P) was found to be clinically beneficial in a study conducted by Brandeis University researchers, who assessed 69 patients before and after fitting them with the ...

New computer model could lead to safer stents

Researchers developed a computer model to predict physiologically realistic drug delivery patterns from stents in branched arterial vessels. The model shows that spatial variation in drug distribution can be significant and may affect treatment outcomes.

Suzaku spies treasure trove of intergalactic metal

Astronomers using NASA's Suzaku orbiting X-ray observatory have discovered the largest known reservoir of rare metals in the universe, including chromium and manganese. The metallic atoms were detected in the hot gas between galaxies, providing insights into the chemical history of stars and galaxies.

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.

Why we outlive our ape ancestors

Humans uniquely susceptible to aging diseases due to genetic adaptations to inflammation and high cholesterol diets. The 'meat-adaptive gene' ApoE3 may contribute to human lifespan, while ApoE4 impairs neuronal development and shortens lifespan by four years.

Widowed facing higher mortality risk, MSU researcher finds

A new study by MSU sociologist Hui Liu finds that widowed people in the US experience a higher mortality rate, especially among white women. The study reveals a growing mortality gap between married and unmarried individuals, primarily due to loss of social support and economic resources.

Outpatient disc treatment gives long-term back pain relief

A randomized study found that percutaneous disc decompression provides sustained pain relief up to two years, while conservative therapy only offers short-term benefits. Disc decompression involves deflating the bulging disc and relieving nerve root pressure, allowing for improved mobility and quality of life.

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.

A little magic provides an atomic-level look at bone

Researchers explored how changes in water content affect bone's structure and dynamics, revealing dynamical structural changes in collagen. The study's success enables future research into atomic-level behaviors of bone under different conditions.

JQI researchers create 'synthetic magnetic fields' for neutral atoms

JQI researchers have created 'synthetic' magnetic fields for ultracold gas atoms by tricking them into behaving like electrically charged particles. This demonstration paves the way for studying the complex natural phenomena involving charged particles in magnetic fields and may contribute to an exotic new form of quantum computing.

Scent signals stop incest in lemurs

Researchers identified scent secretions in lemurs that encode markers of relatedness, preventing inbreeding and facilitating nepotism. The study reveals a complex olfactory mechanism allowing lemurs to recognize family ties and avoid unfamiliar kin.

Synthetic magnetism achieved by optical methods

Researchers used laser light to create synthetic magnetism in neutral atoms, allowing for unprecedented control over quantum systems. This breakthrough enables the study of phenomena such as electrons in magnetic fields and has potential applications in quantum computing and information science.

A cell's 'cap' of bundled fibers could yield clues to disease

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered a fibrous structure that holds the nucleus in place, which could provide clues to diseases such as cancer, muscular dystrophy, and progeria. The perinuclear actin cap is a domed structure of bundled filaments that sits above the nucleus, controlling its shape and potentially affecting ...

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.

Newly explored bacteria reveal some huge RNA surprises

Yale researchers discovered exceptionally large RNAs in previously unstudied bacteria, suggesting many more remain to be found as scientists explore more bacterial species. These RNAs rank among the largest and most sophisticated yet discovered, potentially acting like enzymes or carrying out complex functions.

Soy peptide lunasin has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory properties

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered that soy peptide lunasin may help fight leukemia by activating a protein called caspase-3. Lunasin also showed anti-inflammatory properties by blocking the activation of NF-kappa-B and reducing interleukin-1 and interleukin-6 levels.

Program to study neurobehavioral impact of khat use

The Khat Research Program will investigate the biobehavioral consequences of long-term khat and tobacco use, with a focus on concurrent nicotine and khat use. The program aims to develop collaborative research relationships and provide capacity-building resources for researchers in Africa, Europe, and North America.

The buzz on fruit flies: New role in the search for addiction treatments

Researchers have discovered that fruit flies can be used as a simpler and more convenient animal model for studying the effects of cocaine and other drugs on the brain. The study, published in ACS Chemical Neuroscience, found that fruit flies can accurately replicate the physiological effects of these substances.

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