Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive December 2009 - Page 10


Page 10 of 21

A new kind of micro-mobility

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel method for moving tiny objects using magnetic fields, mimicking the motion of cilia in cells. The system could provide precise control over liquids and particles, enabling virtual microfluidics and potentially advancing biomedical screening and medical diagnostics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2009

Painkiller undermines aspirin's anti-clotting action

A new study suggests that combining celebrex with low-dose aspirin may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin in preventing heart attack and stroke. Researchers found that celebrex interferes with aspirin's ability to block blood clots, particularly when taken in low doses.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

Going vertical: Fleeing tsunamis by moving up, not out

Stanford researchers recommend vertical evacuation as a safer alternative to fleeing tsunamis, but only if buildings are reinforced to withstand both earthquakes and tsunamis. The approach could save thousands of lives, especially in cities like Padang where residents live in high-risk zones.

SourceStanford University·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

Prussian blue linked to the origin of life

Researchers found Prussian blue can create essential biological molecules, including hydrogen cyanide and urea, under early Earth-like conditions. This study offers an alternative explanation for the formation of Banded Iron Formations.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalChemistry & Biodiversity·DateDec 14, 2009

DNA needs a good editor

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a new mechanism for DNA packaging that affects RNA splicing, leading to differences in protein production. This finding has significant implications for disease diagnosis and treatment, including the development of innovative drug therapies.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

Does scent enhance consumer product memories?

A new study published in Journal of Consumer Research reveals that scent significantly enhances recall of product information, with scented products remembered better than unscented ones. The researchers found that product scent is more effective at enhancing memory for product-related information than ambient scent.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 14, 2009

U of A students reaffirm the work of a 1920s paleontologist

University of Alberta graduate students re-examined a 76 million-year-old armadillo-like dinosaur and found that the original researcher, William Parks, was correct in his identification. The species was previously misidentified as Euoplocephalus in the 1970s.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateDec 14, 2009

Parents: Be mindful of hazardous holiday ornaments

A study from Boston Children's Hospital found that holiday decorations, particularly glass ornaments, lead to an average of five ornament-related injuries per year. Parents are advised to be vigilant during the holiday season and take precautions to prevent such incidents.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPediatric Emergency Care·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

Killer cookies: To resist temptation, exaggerate the threat

Researchers found that people are more likely to resist food temptations when they perceive a greater threat, and this effect is heightened by environmental stimuli. Counteractive construal, a mental process where individuals exaggerate the negativity of temptation, plays a key role in maintaining long-term goals.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 14, 2009

Steroid injections may slow diabetes-related eye disease

Researchers found that injecting corticosteroids into the eye slowed the progression of diabetic retinopathy in a study involving 840 eyes. The treatment reduced the risk of vision loss associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy, which affects 700,000 Americans annually.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

In rural areas, more women falling into health care gap

Women in rural areas are at risk of inadequate health care coverage due to age, retirement, and lack of internet access. To address this issue, researchers are developing programs to provide critical health information and affordable healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateDec 14, 2009

Hypoxia increases as climate warms

A new study finds that offshore waters off the Chilean coast experienced systematic oxygen depletion during the rapid warming of the Antarctic following the last glacial maximum. The research suggests that climate change may be contributing to outbreaks of hypoxia along the near-shore regions of South America and the Pacific Northwest.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 14, 2009

'Rock-breathing' bacteria could generate electricity and clean up oil spills

Scientists have discovered how bacteria survive in rock environments, enabling the potential for bio-batteries powered by animal waste and cleaning up oil spills. The 'rock-breathing' bacteria can construct tiny biological wires to conduct electrons to minerals, generating electricity.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

Influenza in Africa should not be ignored

Influenza is circulating in Africa, causing sporadic outbreaks and potentially severe epidemics due to inadequate surveillance. The authors argue that improved monitoring is needed to accurately assess the burden of influenza in tropical countries like Africa.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 14, 2009

Study finds significantly worse outcomes in cancer patients with cognitive impairment

A new study found that cancer patients with dementia have a lower survival rate than those without dementia, even after controlling for age, tumor type, and stage. Patients with mild cognitive impairment can still live independently for nearly four and a half years, while those with moderate to severe dementia have an average survival ...

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCritical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology·DateDec 14, 2009

Myopia appears to have become more common

Researchers found a statistically significant increase in myopia prevalence among US participants from 1971 to 2004, with higher rates observed in younger individuals. The study suggests that modifiable risk factors for myopia development could lead to the creation of cost-effective intervention strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

National survey tracks rates of common mental disorders among American youth

A nationally representative survey found that about 13% of American children and teenagers have a mental disorder, with lower socioeconomic status linked to higher rates. Mental health services are often underutilized, particularly among minority youth, highlighting the need for increased access and support.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 14, 2009

Imaging test detects Alzheimer's disease that is likely to progress

A new imaging test has detected early Alzheimer's disease in older adults, which is likely to progress into symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. The test uses Pittsburgh Compound B (PiB) to bind to beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, identifying individuals who are at risk of developing dementia.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateDec 14, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

TRMM sees 05B winding down off the Sri Lanka coast

The TRMM satellite captured rainfall data on Tropical Depression 05B, showing a large area of rainfall near the storm's center. The system has weakened into a tropical depression, with cloud heights dropping over time.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

Variable doses of radiation raise safety concerns for CT procedures

A new study reveals significant variation in radiation doses for CT procedures, with some patients receiving up to 13-fold more exposure than others. The research highlights the need for standardization to reduce the risk of cancer associated with CT scans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 14, 2009

Exercise improves survival rates for colorectal cancer patients

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that men with colorectal cancer who engage in regular exercise have a 53% higher chance of surviving without the disease. The benefit of exercise was seen across various factors such as age, cancer progression and previous physical activity.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 14, 2009

Tropical Storm Laurence set for second Australian landfall

Tropical Storm Laurence is forecasted to make its second landfall in Australia, impacting the northern Kimberley coast and potentially causing heavy rainfall and beach erosion. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take action in preparation for the cyclone's arrival.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 14, 2009

IUPUI researchers tackle protein mechanisms behind limb regeneration

Researchers investigated over 300 proteins in axolotl limbs, discovering key proteins involved in cell reprogramming and avoiding cell death. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of limb regeneration and potentially lead to new treatments for human amputations.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalBMC Biology·DateDec 14, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Interactive animations give science students a boost

A new study found that university students who use interactive animations in their studies retain a better understanding of scientific concepts than those who don't. The animations, which can be manipulated to adjust real-world variables, demonstrate complex physics phenomena such as precipitation formation.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateDec 14, 2009

Characteristics of ultrafine particles from an engine fueled

This study investigates the effects of low sulfur diesel fuel on ultrafine particle emissions from a compression-ignition engine. The results show that the fuel reduces both mass concentration and number concentration of particles, which can help mitigate respiratory problems. The composition of nanoparticles emitted from ordinary dies...

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateDec 14, 2009

Genetic link to heart failure

A team of researchers has identified 12 genetic variants in the HSPB7 gene associated with heart failure. The study found a block of 12 genetic variants linked to heart failure in a large group of individuals.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 14, 2009
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.

Government overseas aid is no bar to individual giving

Donations to overseas development charities have grown at an average rate of 7.4% per annum, exceeding household income and government aid growth rates. Individual giving is not deterred by government grants, with a new model suggesting a 10% change in household incomes produces a similar 10% change in donations.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateDec 13, 2009

NIH-funded study unveils potential genetic links to lung disease risk

A new NIH-funded study has uncovered several DNA sequences linked to impaired pulmonary function, providing insight into mechanisms of lung capacity and potentially leading to better understanding of diseases like asthma and COPD. The findings may help develop new interventions to manage lung diseases and improve mortality rates.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 13, 2009
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.

New genes for lung disease discovered

Scientists have identified five genetic variants associated with lung health, providing new insights into the molecular basis of lung diseases. These findings hold promise for developing targeted treatments for conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 13, 2009

Virtual testing gives lightweight planes lift-off

Researchers are using virtual testing to design and construct a new generation of efficient passenger airplanes with carbon-fibre composite structures. Virtual tests allow for simultaneous testing in hours, condensing months of physical testing into just hours.

SourceMonash University·DateDec 13, 2009

Newly identified enzymes help plants sense elevated CO2 and could lead to water-wise crops

Biologists have discovered plant enzymes that enable plants to respond more efficiently to elevated carbon dioxide levels. This discovery could lead to the development of drought-resistant crops with improved water efficiency. The research found that specific proteins called carbonic anhydrases play a crucial role in this process.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateDec 13, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Yellowstone's plumbing exposed

Researchers have imaged Yellowstone's plumbing using seismic waves, revealing a plume of hot rock rising from the northwest at a depth of at least 410 miles. The new findings suggest a larger magma chamber than previously thought, potentially leading to an even more catastrophic eruption.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research·DateDec 13, 2009

Scripps Research scientists crack mystery of protein's dual function

Researchers solved a 10-year-old mystery of how a single protein can have two distinct roles, providing insight into potential therapeutic for cancer and eye diseases. The protein, human tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (TrpRS), has a functional switch that enables it to perform different functions.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 13, 2009

The Queen and I

Scientists found that autistic brains show less activity when processing self-relevant information, unlike typical brains. This atypical response may contribute to social difficulties in individuals with autism, impacting their ability to navigate relationships and develop social skills.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBrain·DateDec 13, 2009
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.