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Science News Archive February 2009


Page 2 of 24

This grass is still greener

A study by Clemson University researchers found that creeping bentgrass on golf putting greens can recover from winter damage caused by foot and equipment traffic. The study suggests that full recovery should be expected by summer, allowing course managers to minimize lost revenue and extend play during the winter months.

Statins lower stroke severity, improve recovery

Mayo Clinic researchers found that statin use reduced stroke severity and improved outcomes, even in patients with ideal cholesterol levels. The study suggests benefits beyond lipid lowering, including plaque stabilization and anti-inflammatory effects.

Maryland takes national lead to preserve foreign language assets

The state of Maryland is uniquely positioned to support the nation's foreign language needs by tapping into its abundant pool of well-educated, bilingual speakers. The task force recommends harnessing the skills of first, second, and third-generation Americans to recruit teachers and translators.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Is HIV testing during labor feasible?

Research in Cameroon reveals that 88.3% of women are willing to accept HIV testing during labor, leading to a higher rate of detected infections compared to previously estimated rates. The study recommends an opt-out approach for HIV testing during labor to increase the number of mother-infant pairs receiving appropriate treatment.

Color test enhances tomato analyzer software

A new tool called Color Test (CT) was implemented in the Tomato Analyzer (TA) software to analyze color in fruits and vegetables. The study found that CT accurately captured and described characteristic colors for various crops, including tomatoes and strawberries with nonuniform pigmentation.

U of T psychologists shed light on origins of morality

A study by U of T psychologists reveals a connection between moral disgust and primitive emotions related to poison and disease. The research found that people display similar facial movements in response to both moral and primitive forms of disgust.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Einstein scientists receive $10 million NIH grant

The Einstein consortium will investigate two types of autophagy in liver and brain function under normal and stressful conditions. They aim to understand how impaired autophagy contributes to aging-related declines in organ function, immunity, and cognitive function.

Biodegradable mulch films on the horizon

Researchers found biodegradable mulch films to be effective in controlling weeds and diseases in tomato crops, outperforming traditional plastic mulch in some aspects. However, more research is needed to fully break down the material and reduce costs.

Georgia goes bananas

Researchers in a study published in HortTechnology identified two high-quality banana cultivars suitable for commercial production in southern Georgia: 'Manzano' and '1780'. These cultivars can produce over six suckers per plant, generating a potential income of over $60 per plant.

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.

Do doodle: Research shows doodling can help memory recall

Research shows doodling while listening can significantly improve memory recall, with participants recalling an average of 7.5 names of people and places compared to 5.8 non-doodlers. Doodling helps maintain focus on the main task without affecting performance.

Long-term study of orchard ground cover management systems

A 10-year study on orchard ground cover management systems found substantial differences in root growth, turnover, and distribution among different GMS treatments. Hardwood bark mulch and post-emergence herbicide treatments produced more tree growth and higher yields than others.

Science internships attract students to research careers

A model internship program at Texas A&M University–Kingsville Citrus Center attracted undergraduate students to science careers, with over 60 students provided with internships and 20 entering graduate schools. The program addressed access barriers for Hispanic Americans, who are an untapped resource of talent in the US scientific rese...

US shiitake market mushrooming

The US shiitake market is experiencing significant growth, driven by consumer demand for nutritious mushrooms. Shiitake are high in potassium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc, making them an attractive crop for environmentally friendly growers.

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.

1.5 million-year-old fossil humans walked on modern feet

The Ileret footprints, found in Kenya, display human-like arch and short toes associated with an upright bipedal stance. The prints are attributed to Homo ergaster or early Homo erectus, a hominid with body proportions similar to modern humans.

Diverse skills, personalities aid top management teams -- up to a point

Research by Christophe Boone and Walter Hendriks found that IT firms with diverse expertise and work experience tend to be more effective in managing organizations. In contrast, personality diversity hinders firm performance. The study suggests using carefully designed personnel selection techniques to screen for knowledge and experience.

Economic research receives further funding boost

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) has awarded £16.5m in funding to three new Centres of Excellence, with a focus on the economic wellbeing of the UK. The centres will conduct research on globalisation, macro-economic growth, and the impact of immigration on growth and wellbeing.

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.

Second, more realistic estimate can reduce planning and purchasing errors

Researchers at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and the Wisconsin School of Business found that people are consistently overly optimistic when predicting future behavior. By asking individuals to make two sets of predictions - one ideal and one realistic - participants reported more accurate estimates and improved decision-ma...

Study identifies new gene associated with ALS

Researchers identified a novel gene, FUS/TLS, associated with inherited amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the fourth gene implicated in familial forms of the disease. Mutations in this gene lead to abnormal protein deposits in motor neurons and are linked to varying inheritance patterns and severity.

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.

Study: Soybean oil reduces carbon footprint in swine barns

Soybean oil has been found to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 20% in methane emissions and 19% in carbon dioxide emissions when sprayed inside swine finishing barns. The study, conducted at a northern Missouri farm, also showed a significant reduction in particulate matter.

Spun-sugar fibers spawn sweet technique for nerve repair

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a novel technique using spun-sugar filaments to create synthetic tubes that mimic natural nerves. The scaffolds can promote nerve regeneration by acting as bridges between severed nerves, and may also be used to repair blood vessels damaged by disease.

New discovery gives tuberculosis vaccine a shot in the arm

A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that interferon can improve the effectiveness of the current tuberculosis vaccine by enhancing dendritic cell function. The research found that type I interferon stimulated dendritic cells to produce a stronger immune response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

A little bit of spit reveals a lot about what lives in your mouth

A global survey of salivary microbes found that the oral microbiome diversity among individuals is similar to that among people from different parts of the world. The study, led by Dr. Mark Stoneking, analyzed bacterial gene sequences from saliva samples from 120 healthy subjects across six geographic areas and compared them with a dat...

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.

Modern lifestyle prevents tooth decay

Research reviews scientific evidence on tooth decay, concluding that good oral hygiene and fluoride toothpaste practices override the effects of food alone. Lifestyle factors such as regular brushing and dental health education are essential in preventing tooth decay.

Desert ants smell their way home

Research by Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology reveals that desert ants, like Cataglyphis fortis, utilize a combination of visual landmarks and unique scent signatures to guide them back to their nests. This groundbreaking study challenges the long-held notion that these ants rely solely on self-generated pheromone trails.

Analysis of fresh strawberries reveals consumer preferences

A recent study reveals that consumer preferences for fresh strawberries are linked to a complex balance of sweetness, aroma, texture, and appearance. The research found that certain strawberry cultivars, such as 'Rubygem' and 'Sugarbaby', were favored by panelists due to their high flavor and sweetness ratings.

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.

Cell microenvironments hold key to future stem cell therapies

Scientists have created unique microenvironment microarrays that reveal how adult stem and progenitor cells develop in a woman's breast. They found that the ultimate fate of these cells depends on signals from multiple microenvironments, suggesting a promising pathway for beneficial therapies.

Drug improves mobility for some MS patients

A Phase 3 clinical trial found that fampridine improves walking ability in some individuals with multiple sclerosis, with 34.8% of participants experiencing a significant increase in walking speed. The study suggests that fampridine could represent an important new treatment for MS-related mobility issues.

Fampridine improves walking ability in some patients with multiple sclerosis

A Phase III study found that fampridine improved walking speed and leg strength in patients with multiple sclerosis. The drug also showed promise in reducing fatigue and improving endurance. However, adverse events were reported in some patients, highlighting the need for further research on its treatment profile.

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.

Scientists discover why teeth form in a single row

Researchers uncover how opposing genetic forces determine the correct pattern of tooth formation in mammals, revealing a potential pathway for tooth regeneration and combating birth defects. The study's findings suggest that careful regulation of competing pro- and anti-tooth initiation signals controls the sequence of tooth development.

Busy Bs: Lymphocyte uses multiple mechanisms to shape immune response

Research shows B cells produce critical regulatory chemicals called cytokines and amplify T cell dependent immune responses to protect against intestinal parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus. B cells also promote the production and long-term maintenance of essential T helper 2 cells, which are crucial for protection from this pathogen.

Antibiotic combination defeats extensively drug-resistant TB

Scientists have found a two-drug combination that inhibits the growth of susceptible laboratory strains and 13 XDR-TB strains, offering a new hope for treating this deadly form of tuberculosis. The drugs work together to target a bacterial enzyme, β-lactamase, which shields TB bacteria from antibiotics.

Effective mentoring critical to HIV/AIDS research efforts

The UCSF-GIVI CFAR's mentoring program uses innovative strategies like 'trans' mentoring to support early-career investigators. The program aims to retain and optimize productivity of these researchers, addressing concerns about lack of access to funding and support for clinician scientists.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Prehistoric global cooling caused by CO2, research finds

A team of researchers found evidence of widespread cooling in Antarctica around 35 million years ago, which was caused by a significant drop in greenhouse gases, particularly CO2. The study used computer modeling and temperature proxies to determine the cause of the cooling.

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.

U of I study shows benefits of hormone found in fat tissue

A University of Illinois study has found that a hormone present in fat tissue plays a key role in regulating the immune system and aiding recovery from hypoxia. Leptin triggers an increase in anti-inflammatory molecules, leading to faster recovery times in obese mice.

Houseplants increase quality of life for retirement community residents

A study by Claudia C. Collins and Angela M. O'Callaghan found that caring for houseplants can have positive effects on residents' happiness and overall sense of well-being. The 4-week study involved interactive horticulture classes, resulting in improved mastery, self-rated health and a general feeling of success.

Study examining role of genetics and environment in type 1 diabetes

The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young (TEDDY) study is expanding to enroll 200 newborns from Georgia and Florida with high-risk genes for type 1 diabetes. Researchers will monitor participants for 15 years, collecting data on genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the disease.

Ethnic differences found for fatty liver disease and insulin resistance

A new study published in Hepatology found that African-Americans are more resistant to fatty liver disease and insulin resistance, particularly when it comes to triglyceride levels. The research suggests an 'insulin resistance paradox' where African-Americans exhibit lower insulin sensitivity despite similar body fat distributions.

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.

Cross-dressing rubidium may reveal clues for exotic computing

Scientists at NIST's JQI have successfully created ultracold rubidium atoms that exhibit cyclotron motions identical to charged particles in a magnetic field. This breakthrough has the potential to reveal clues for exotic computing and understanding of the fractional quantum Hall effect.

First Lithosphere media highlights -- February 2009

The first issue of Lithosphere features studies on Holocene surface ruptures in New Zealand, a fluid factory in solid Earth, and the erosion of the Wasatch Mountains. Researchers found evidence of five surface-rupturing earthquakes in New Zealand and proposed a new model for fluids in Earth's interior.

AGU journal highlights -- Feb. 25, 2009

Research papers highlight the impact of melting glaciers and ice caps on sea levels, with a minimum of 180mm of rise expected in the next 100 years. Additionally, studies show the widening of the tropical belt due to human environmental effects and an underestimation of ozone abundance in the troposphere.

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.

Reproductive factors may protect women from Parkinson's disease

A new study found that women with a longer fertile lifespan and more years of exposure to their own sex hormones may be protected from Parkinson's disease. Women with four or more pregnancies were at greater risk of developing the disease compared to those with fewer pregnancies.

CANTAM 1st African Network of Excellence for clinical trials

The CANTAM network, the first EDCTP-funded regional Network of Excellence, aims to build research capacity in Central Africa. Partner institutions from Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Tanzania, and Germany will collaborate to conduct clinical trials under best practices.