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Science News Archive March 2009 - Page 2


Page 2 of 26

As good as it gets: Octogenarian muscles don't get stronger with exercise

Despite exercising for three months, octogenarian women failed to increase muscle mass, but showed improved efficiency in activating and synchronizing their muscles. The study suggests that it's essential to build as much muscle mass as possible earlier in life to ensure more strength in later years.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateMar 31, 2009

Control, treatment of bed bugs challenging

A recent review of published articles suggests bed bug bites are unlikely to transmit disease, but may cause skin reactions. Effective treatments for symptomatic bed bug bites have not been established, and eradication is complicated by insecticide resistance.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 31, 2009

Focus on the future: Long-term goals help us resist unhealthy urges

Consumers who focus on long-term goals exert self-control and resist unhealthy urges, even when faced with repeated challenges. Long-term goal-focused individuals linked health tasks to important goals, boosting self-control and reducing the impact of fatigue.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 31, 2009
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.

Magnetic nano-'shepherds' organize cells

Researchers at Duke University have developed an approach using magnetism to manipulate human cells, forming chains that can promote the growth of blood vessels. The iron-containing nanoparticles used by the researchers are suspended within a liquid known as a ferrofluid, allowing them to readily manipulate the chain formation.

SourceDuke University·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 31, 2009

Optical illusions: Variety makes us perceive smaller quantities

A study by Joseph P. Redden and Stephen J. Hoch found that variety in optical illusions leads to underestimation of quantity, causing individuals to pour more when faced with a mix of items. This perception affects food portions and may contribute to overeating.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 31, 2009

New insights into how brain responds to viral infection

Astrocytes, supportive brain cells, produce inflammatory mediators in response to viral infection. The study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms of inflammation and has significant implications for diagnosis and treatment of brain infections.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 31, 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.

Coronary angiography may improve outcomes for cardiac arrest patients

A study published in Journal of Intensive Care Medicine found that patients who received coronary angiography after cardiac arrest were twice as likely to survive without significant brain damage. Coronary angiography, an imaging procedure that shows blood flow through the heart, was independently associated with good neurologic outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Intensive Care Medicine·DateMar 31, 2009

Study details strategy for boosting ranks of black HIV/AIDS researchers

African Americans are disproportionately affected by AIDS, yet few are pursuing HIV/AIDS research due to historical, social, and other factors. Recommendations from UCLA researchers aim to reverse the trend by supporting partnerships, retraining, mentorship, and culturally congruent research.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 31, 2009

Housing for homeless alcoholics can reduce costs to taxpayers

A Seattle-based study published in JAMA found that providing stable housing to homeless alcoholics can reduce their drinking and cost taxpayers $4 million over the first year. The Housing First program resulted in an average cost-savings of 53% compared to a wait-list control group.

SourceBurness·JournalJAMA·DateMar 31, 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.

Rigorous visual training teaches the brain to see again after stroke

Researchers successfully trained patients with severe visual impairments after a stroke to regain some vision through intensive computer exercises. By building on existing 'blindsight,' the brain's healthy regions were stimulated to take on tasks normally handled by damaged areas.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateMar 31, 2009

Bad mix of bacterial remnants and genetics leads to arthritis

A study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology found that bacterial remnants and genetics contribute to arthritis. The NOD2 gene is activated by muramyl dipeptide, leading to inflammation and disease progression. Researchers hope to find treatments that can either eliminate or mask this inflammatory signal.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateMar 31, 2009

Aussie meat ants may be invasive cane toad's Achilles' heel

Researchers found that meat ants are more effective at killing and eating cane toads than native frogs, providing a potential solution to controlling the spread of this alien species in tropical Australia. Cane toads' poor escape abilities make them vulnerable to meat ants' attacks.

SourceWiley·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateMar 30, 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.

IADR/AADR Journal of Dental Research 2008 Cover of the Year

The International Association for Dental Research (IADR) has awarded C. E. Semino with the JDR Cover of the Year Award for his paper on self-assembling peptides and their potential in bone regeneration. The award recognizes aesthetically pleasing and scientifically novel images that enhance research impact.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 30, 2009

Genetic basis for migration

Scientists have identified a set of genes involved in orienting Eastern North American monarch butterflies' internal 'sun compass' and driving their 4000km migration to Mexico. The research reveals seasonal changes in genomic function help define the migratory state, independent of juvenile hormone activity.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateMar 30, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New images of marine microbe illuminate carbon and nitrogen fixation

A new study published in PNAS reveals that Trichodesmium separates its carbon and nitrogen fixation processes by time, with the process switching between the two every day. The stunning images obtained using advanced imaging technology show where the fixed nitrogen is stored within a cell and how it changes over time.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2009

Study examines effect of heart surgery on employment

A new study compares careers and long-term occupational success of individuals with congenital heart disease to the general population. Men are less likely to be employed full-time than part-time, while female patients show fewer differences in employment patterns.

SourceWiley·JournalCongenital Heart Disease·DateMar 30, 2009

New, more effective nisin antibiotics combat superbugs and food diseases

Researchers have developed a new generation of natural antibiotics using bioengineering, targeting harmful micro-organisms like MRSA and Listeria monocytogenes. These enhanced nisin variants possess greater activities against clinical pathogens and could become acceptable alternatives to current antimicrobials.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateMar 30, 2009

Police with higher multitasking abilities less likely to shoot unarmed persons

A new Georgia State University study found that police officers with a higher ability to multitask are less likely to shoot unarmed persons when feeling threatened during video simulations. Officers with lower working memory capacity and high negative emotionality were more likely to make shooting decisions.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateMar 30, 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.

Researchers discover link between schizophrenia and diabetes

Researchers discovered a significant link between schizophrenia and type 2 diabetes in a study of 50 people newly-diagnosed with schizophrenia. The study found that 16% of participants had either diabetes or abnormal glucose metabolism rates.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMar 30, 2009

Colon cancer and the microbes in your gut

A healthy diet is linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer due to the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids. The composition of diet directly influences the diversity of microbes in the gut, with complex carbohydrates supporting good bacterial populations.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateMar 30, 2009

Cancer Genomics Browser gives cancer researchers a powerful new tool

The Cancer Genomics Browser is a web-based tool that enables researchers to find patterns in large-scale cancer studies, identifying genetic signatures for predicting therapy responses. By analyzing clinical and genomic data, researchers can gain insights into the complex genetic roots of cancer, leading to improved treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 30, 2009

Chemists: Light-activated 'lock' can control blood clotting, drug delivery

Researchers design a lock-like molecule that controls blood clotting based on exposure to light. The biological hardware could be used to prevent the formation of tiny blood vessels that feed tumors, and also release drugs only on diseased cells or organs. This technology has potential applications in cancer treatment and drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2009
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.

Study: Embrace the 'Dwight Schrutes' in your office for better performance

A new study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that teams with a 'socially distinct newcomer' are more likely to solve problems successfully. The key factor is not the newcomer's skills or knowledge, but their ability to shake up the group dynamic and create discomfort among team members.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMar 30, 2009

Study of cat diet leads to key nervous system repair discovery

Scientists studying a mysterious neurological affliction in cats discovered a key ability of the central nervous system to repair itself. Recovery was achieved through remyelination, where previously demyelinated axons became restored with thin but functional myelin sheaths.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2009

New breakthrough in global warming plant production

Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified a single gene responsible for controlling plant growth responses to high temperatures, which could significantly impact crop production as global warming increases. The study found that mutant plants deficient in the regulatory protein PIF4 display reduced growth and biomass.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 30, 2009

The secret to chimp strength

According to evolutionary biologist Alan Walker, human fine motor control limits strength compared to chimps. Humans use fewer muscle fibers for tasks, while chimps use more due to less motor neuron control. This allows humans to conserve energy and perform delicate tasks, but may also limit their physical endurance.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateMar 30, 2009

Study answers question of timing in use of eptifibatide

The study found that administering eptifibatide in the emergency room or during procedures to open blocked arteries does not significantly affect patient outcomes for those at high risk of complications after a heart attack. Researchers also noted an association between earlier use of eptifibatide and non-life-threatening bleeding.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 30, 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.

Lice genomes: Pieces of a new puzzle

Researchers have sequenced the genome of the human body louse, revealing a fragmented mitochondrial genome consisting of 18 minichromosomes. This discovery challenges our understanding of animal DNA structure and raises questions about its evolution and potential benefits.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 30, 2009

Low-income families with sick children often enrolled in high-deductible health care plans

A study from Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School found that low-income families with children who have chronic conditions are more likely to be enrolled in high-deductible health plans. The study analyzed data from 839 families who were switched from traditional plans to high-deductible plans, revealing a higher perce...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 30, 2009

A missing enzyme conveys major heart protection in pre-clinical work

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a missing enzyme that can resist the normal effects of a heart attack, allowing mice to retain nearly normal heart function. The findings suggest a potential therapy for stimulating blood vessel growth and preventing future attacks.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 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.

Yale researchers discover mechanism for

Two-year-olds with autism lack selective attention to human movements, instead focusing on physically synchronous sounds and motion. Researchers tracked eye movements of children with and without autism while watching cartoon animations, revealing a key difference in how they process social cues.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateMar 30, 2009

IADR announces winner of the 2009 David B. Scott Fellowship

Andreas Niklas, a University of Regensburg Medical School student, has won the prestigious fellowship for his proposal on developing an in vivo optical measurement device. The $2,500 prize is supported by an endowment created by late IADR President David B. Scott's wife.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 30, 2009

AERA journal presents research on use of observational methods to improve instruction

Researchers examine the effectiveness of individualized instruction and observational tools to improve reading skills in fourth- and fifth-grade classrooms. Classroom observations and teacher logs are found to be reliable and valid methods for measuring instruction, with potential benefits for future research studies.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateMar 30, 2009

Brazil plays key role in improving access to medicines for all

A new paper by academics from Scotland and the US explores Brazil's role in changing global AIDS policy and promoting widespread access to AIDS treatment. Brazil's successful HIV/AIDS treatment program is considered a model for other developing countries.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalGlobal Public Health·DateMar 30, 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.

Surveillance vehicles take flight using alternative energy

The Naval Research Laboratory has successfully demonstrated a hydrogen-powered fuel cell design for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which can travel farther and carry heavier payloads than earlier battery-powered designs. The Ion Tiger UAV achieves stealthy characteristics, reducing noise, low heat signature, and zero emissions.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateMar 30, 2009

To swim or to crawl: For the worm it's a no brainer

Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered that C. elegans worms can exhibit both swimming and crawling behaviors, challenging the long-held assumption that these are distinct gaits. The study's findings suggest that a single underlying nervous system mechanism controls a range of locomotion behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalHFSP Journal·DateMar 30, 2009
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.

A potential therapeutic strategy for hepatic failure

Researchers propose using intrahepatic transplantation of hepatic oval cells to treat fulminant hepatic failure. Studies show that this approach improves liver function and increases survival rates in rats.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 30, 2009

Climate change fears for deadly virus outbreaks in livestock

Rising temperatures and mild winters have led to increased outbreaks of bluetongue and other insect-transmitted viruses in European livestock, with devastating consequences for ruminants. The UK successfully suppressed a major outbreak in 2008, but new virus types pose ongoing threats to the region.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateMar 30, 2009

Mothers of multiple births at increased odds of postpartum depression

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that mothers of multiples have a 43% increased risk of moderate to severe depressive symptoms nine months after giving birth. Only 27% of mothers with depressive symptoms reported seeking professional help.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 30, 2009

Infant weight gain linked to childhood obesity

A new Harvard Medical School study reveals that infants who experience rapid weight gain in the first six months of life are at a higher risk of developing obesity by age three. The research suggests that early interventions may help prevent long-term health consequences.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 30, 2009
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.

Homebody queen ants help preserve family ties in large populations

Researchers investigated kinship ties in alpine wood ant colonies and found that breeding was limited to specific clusters, with individuals within clusters more related to each other. The study suggests that queens often move to breed within their cluster, while males are more mobile and contribute to male-biased gene flow.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 30, 2009

Hundreds of natural-selection studies could be wrong, study demonstrates

A recent study by Penn State researchers suggests that several statistical methods used to detect natural selection at the molecular level are faulty. This has implications for the interpretation of hundreds of published studies on human evolution and the role of natural selection in shaping human traits.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 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.