Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive May 2009


Page 3 of 22

Breakthrough made in assessing marine phytoplankton health

Researchers have successfully measured marine phytoplankton physiology through satellite measurements of fluorescence, providing a reasonably accurate picture of the ocean's health and productivity. This will help evaluate the impact of global warming, climate change, and desertification on oceans.

MIT, BU engineer cellular circuits that count events

Researchers have developed cells that can count up to three cellular events, mimicking computer chips with simple circuits. The RTC Counter uses a series of genes activated in a specific order, while the DIC Counter stores digital memory by encoding 'bits' of information.

2 Central High (Philadelphia) grads honored by AIBS

Joseph Felsenstein and Louis J. Gross, both Central High graduates, received the 2009 and 2006 AIBS Distinguished Scientist Awards for their significant scientific contributions to integrative and organismal biology.

National child protection commission urgently needed

The Lancet calls for a National Child Protection Commission to review evidence on protecting vulnerable children. The UK government should be held accountable for its inadequate system, which has led to the deaths of thousands of victims.

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.

Yellowfin tuna biz concept a winner

Marine Affairs and Policy graduate student John Stieglitz's Blue Ocean Aquaculture project focuses on sustainably cultured juvenile yellowfin tuna for offshore aquaculture industry. The UM Rosenstiel School student received runner-up prize and $3,000 in the competition's High-Potential Venture category.

How do filicide offenders differ from other murderers?

A nationwide study found filicide offenders have fewer previous criminal offenses and are more likely to be employed than homicidal controls, contradicting the idea that they are mentally disordered. They also exhibit emotional problems and suicidal behavior, highlighting the need for adequate support.

Lombardi scientist brings 'Dream Team' breast cancer research effort to GUMC

V. Craig Jordan, a renowned breast cancer scientist, has assembled a team of top researchers to tackle the complexities of breast cancer through a $73.7 million grant from Stand Up To Cancer. The 'Dream Team' aims to accelerate cancer treatment within three years by understanding the molecular diversity of human breast cancer.

Evidence of macroscopic quantum tunneling detected in nanowires

A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has demonstrated macroscopic quantum tunneling in ultrathin superconducting nanowires. They observed a process called quantum phase slip, where packs of electrons tunnel together from higher to lower current states. This finding provides evidence that quantum mechanics governs large s...

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.

Yale study: Most polluted ecosystems recoverable

A Yale analysis of 240 studies found that forest ecosystems recover in 42 years, ocean bottoms in less than 10 years, and those affected by human-induced disturbances recover faster than natural events. The study suggests that restoration can become a key tool for conservation organizations to protect habitats.

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.

First 'nanorust' field test slated in Mexico

The first field test of Rice University's 'nanorust' technology, a low-cost method for removing arsenic from drinking water, will begin later this year in Guanajuato, Mexico. The technology uses tiny iron oxide particles to naturally bind with arsenic and can be used in sand filters to treat groundwater.

Type 1 diabetes cases in children under 5 to double by 2020

According to a new study, type 1 diabetes cases in children under five years are expected to double by 2020 if current trends continue. The researchers found an overall increase of 3.9% per year, with the highest rates seen in children under 5 and those between 10-14 years old.

When is it safe to hire someone with a criminal record?

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers estimates that after five years of staying clean, an individual with a criminal record is no greater risk of committing another crime. The study suggests it may be safe to hire ex-offenders with clean records, providing employers with data to inform their hiring decisions.

Sharing surgical lessons from the Canadian field hospital in Afghanistan

The article highlights the importance of sharing surgical knowledge between military and civilian surgeons to prepare for disasters. Canadian physician Dr. Vivian McAlister shares his experience working at a field hospital in Afghanistan and emphasizes the benefits of 'damage control resuscitation' techniques in saving lives.

Dementia drugs may put some patients at risk, Queen's study shows

A Queen's University study found that cholinesterase inhibitors can cause slowed heart rates, fainting episodes, and increased risks of permanent pacemaker implants and hip fractures in patients with dementia. The study suggests that people at high risk should reassess their medication regimen.

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.

Unsafe neighborhoods disable the elderly

Research suggests that even perceiving one's neighborhood as unsafe can be hazardous for elder health, leading to mobility disability. The study found a strong correlation between perceived danger and actual violent crime rates.

Why some prostate cancer returns

A recent study found that men with low oxygen levels in their prostate tumor are more likely to experience a return of prostate cancer after treatment. Researchers say this finding could lead to personalized treatment approaches, including combination therapies and non-invasive methods for detecting oxygen levels in tumors.

Common migraine pain condition also prevalent in cluster headache

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that half of patients with cluster headaches experience cutaneous allodynia, a common migraine pain condition. This discovery suggests overlap in mechanisms for pain between migraines and cluster headaches, potentially leading to new treatment implications.

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.

NSF announces funding for Alaska Region Research Vessel

The Alaska Region Research Vessel (ARRV) will support scientific research in high-latitude waters, collecting sediment samples and hosting remotely operated vehicles. The vessel will enable scientists to study global issues like sea-level rise and climate change affecting Alaska's fisheries and ecosystems.

Development of DNA drugs gives hope to lupus patients

Researchers have developed DNA-like compounds that effectively inhibit cells responsible for chronic autoimmune condition lupus. The compounds, known as class R inhibitory oligonucleotides (INH-ODNs), selectively reduce the activity of autoreactive B cells and dendritic cells, delaying death and reducing kidney damage in mice with lupus.

History of hyperactivity off-base, says researcher

Hyperactivity disorder as understood today is a relatively recent phenomenon, says researcher Matthew Smith. He argues that historical figures like Mozart were not necessarily considered hyperactive due to societal context.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Geographic isolation drives the evolution of a hot springs microbe

Researchers found that Sulfolobus islandicus populations are more diverse than thought, with variable genomes evolving rapidly and adapting to local environments. The findings suggest a limited genetic reservoir stored in viruses and other elements, contradicting the idea of a universal gene pool.

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.

Team develops DNA compounds that could help treat lupus

Researchers developed DNA-like compounds that effectively inhibit cells responsible for systemic lupus erythematosus, a potentially groundbreaking treatment. The findings demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects of class R inhibitory oligonucleotides and could lead to new therapies.

Air Force funds new generation of energy efficient UAVs

The Air Force Office of Scientific Research is funding a project to integrate solar power into UAV materials. Researchers aim to develop lightweight and compact drones with longer flight times using organic semi-conductor coated fibers.

Berkeley Lab scientist co-leads breast cancer 'dream team'

A team of scientists and clinicians co-led by Joe Gray and Dennis Slamon will study three subtypes of breast cancer: estrogen receptor positive, HER2 positive, and triple negative. Their goal is to match a tumor's genetic profile with the best therapy, using cutting-edge biological, genomic, and computational techniques.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Sea-level rise may pose greatest threat to Northeast US, Canada

New research suggests that moderate to high rates of ice melt from Greenland may shift ocean circulation by about 2100, causing sea levels off the northeast coast of North America to rise by 30-51 centimeters (12-20 inches) more than other coastal areas. This could lead to significant impacts on major northeastern cities.

Lesson from the past for surviving climate change

A new study examines how past Caribbean communities coped with rising sea levels, crop failures, and extreme weather. Researchers found that people adapted by building houses on stilts, diversifying food production, and relocating to cave complexes during hurricanes.

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.

Study shows CGM devices also benefit people with type 1 diabetes

A study found that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices enable people with excellent blood sugar control to continue managing their diabetes while reducing the frequency of low blood sugar events. CGM devices helped participants spend more time in the target blood sugar range and reduced biochemical hypoglycemia.

What goes down, must come up: Earth's leaky mantle

Researchers at Rice University and Harvard University developed a new model to explain how noble gases are lost from the Earth's interior during mantle convection. The model suggests that both the upper and lower mantle are involved in convection, but they affect each other differently.

Triage technology with a Star Trek twist

The US Department of Homeland Security is developing a new triage tool called the Standoff Patient Triage Tool (SPTT), which uses Laser Doppler Vibrometry technology to take vital signs quickly from a distance.

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.

XMM-Newton takes astronomers to a black hole's edge

Using XMM-Newton's new data, astronomers have mapped the region around a supermassive black hole, estimating its mass at 3-5 million solar masses. The observations also reveal rapid spinning and accretion rates that verge on theoretical limits.

A connected world gives viruses the edge

A new study found that parasites evolve to be less aggressive when scattered among isolated clusters of hosts, favoring the survival of the group. This discovery suggests that as human activity makes the world more connected, natural selection will favor more virulent and dangerous parasites.

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.

New rotors could help develop nanoscale generators

Researchers have successfully created a rotating molecular rotor on a gold surface, creating an off-axis rotation that mimics the property of machines like electric motors and generators. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of machines for generating currents at small scales.

Sulphur in just one hair could blow a terrorist's alibi

A new method uses laser ablation and multicollector ICP-MS to detect small variations in sulphur isotopes in hair, which can be linked to a person's geographical movements. The technique has been tested on volunteers with different diets and origins, showing promise for tracking international criminals.

Shatter-resistant brassicas

Researchers have developed a method to prevent pod shattering in oilseed rape, reducing seed loss by up to 70% and improving harvest efficiency. By controlling hormone production, scientists can seal seeds inside pods, addressing a major issue in farming this high-value crop.

Male or female? Coloring provides gender cues

A recent study published in the Journal of Vision found that subtle coloring patterns around the eyes and mouth play a crucial role in rapid gender discrimination. Researchers discovered that the shades of reds and greens in these areas lead to faster gender identification, contradicting previous assumptions about facial features.

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.

Brain activation can predict the strategies people use to make risky decisions

Neuroscientists at Duke University Medical Center used fMRI to study brain activity while participants made economic decisions. The study found that brain regions associated with rational processing were active when subjects used simplifying strategies, contradicting traditional notions of rational vs. irrational decision-making.

Study: Teachers choose schools according to student race

A study found that high-quality teachers tend to leave schools with large minority populations, suggesting a direct relationship between student race and teacher quality. This relationship may be a substantial contributor to the black-white achievement gap in American schools.

City rats loyal to their 'hoods, scientists discover

A study finds that inner city rodents form distinct neighborhoods, with most spending majority of their lives within a city block. This understanding provides information on which populations may spread disease, highlighting the need to target entire families for eradication efforts.