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Science News Archive 2010


Page 264 of 283

Virus pulls bait and switch on insect vectors

A common plant virus attracts aphids by elevating the odor cue of infected plants without changing it. The insects transmit the disease efficiently despite leaving quickly, implying a persistent mode of transmission beyond agriculture.

Survey finds many surgeons suffer injuries from minimally invasive techniques

A comprehensive survey of 317 laparoscopic surgeons found that 87% experience physical symptoms or discomfort due to minimally invasive techniques. The study highlights the need for ergonomic solutions to address the risks associated with these procedures, which have already benefited millions of patients worldwide.

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.

Antidepressant may result in improved cognitive function after stroke

Patients taking antidepressant escitalopram experienced improved cognitive recovery following a stroke, outperforming those on placebo or in problem-solving therapy. This study suggests that escitalopram may be effective in promoting post-stroke recovery, despite being well-tolerated and not significantly affecting depressive symptoms.

Diabetes medication may help decrease BMI in obese adolescents

A lifestyle intervention program combined with metformin XR significantly decreased BMI in non-diabetic obese adolescents, with a small but statistically significant impact observed over 48 weeks. The study suggests that metformin may have an important role in treating adolescent obesity.

SNM's nanomedicine summit advances molecular imaging

The summit explored ways to use nanotechnology in medical imaging and therapy, focusing on targeting diseases such as cancer, neurological conditions, and cardiovascular disease. Experts discussed regulatory frameworks, design considerations, and future directions for this rapidly evolving field.

Loss of 'guardian angel' gene prompts premature birth

A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reveals that the loss of a 'guardian angel' gene leads to premature birth due to altered signaling pathways in the pregnant uterus. The findings could lead to new strategies for treating and preventing prematurity.

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.

Managed wolf populations could restore ecosystems

Researchers propose reintroducing small, managed populations of wolves into national parks to enhance ecosystem biodiversity, increase plant biomass, and boost tourism. Advances in animal tracking technology and management techniques may mitigate concerns about wolf behavior and human safety.

Studies provide insight into key oat chemical

Researchers have found that oat plants with strong crown rust resistance tend to produce higher concentrations of Avns, a type of antioxidant metabolite. The study suggests that oat breeders can select cultivars with enhanced Avn production by taking into account disease pressure during growth.

Plantations can provide the same ecosystem services as natural forests

Researchers argue that biologically diverse plantations can alleviate social, economic and ecological pressures on natural forests. These plantations can sequester carbon, mitigate climate change and restore ecological services. Well-planned plantations can help preserve high diversity old-growth forests.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Decreased muscle strength predicts functional impairments in older adults

A study published in Physical Therapy found that decreased muscle strength is associated with difficulty performing daily activities like stooping, crouching, and kneeling. Older adults with weakened trunk extensor, knee extensor, and ankle flexion muscles had significant difficulties with these tasks.

Tobacco plant-made therapeutic thwarts West Nile virus

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a plant-based therapeutic that effectively combats West Nile virus infection. The treatment, derived from tobacco plants, neutralizes the virus by binding to its surface protein, offering a promising alternative to existing treatments.

'Peter Pan' apes never seem to learn selfishness

Researchers found bonobos never seem to learn how not to share, whereas chimps do as youngsters but grow out of it. Bonobos' behavior is shaped by their environment's abundance, leading to a 'Peter Pan world'. They shared like juveniles even after reaching adulthood, unlike chimps.

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.

Simulation study may help Parkinson's patients retain driving skills

Researchers are testing whether simulation driving can improve Parkinson's patients' driving skills and reduce their threefold increased risk of car accidents. The five-week training program involves simulator-based driving tests and on-road evaluations to assess the impact of cognitive-improving activities.

Research shows profit, not politics, drives sovereign wealth fund

A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that the Norway Fund, a leading sovereign wealth fund, operates primarily driven by profit. The research suggests that other sovereign wealth funds may also be profit-driven, contradicting concerns about political motivations.

Engineers explore environmental concerns of nanotechnology

Researchers are exploring the environmental implications of nanotechnology, focusing on the fate and transport of natural and manufactured nanomaterials in ecosystems. Studies have shown that nanoparticles can be toxic if inhaled, and may undergo chemical transformations in the atmosphere, increasing their solubility and potential for ...

Study finds Ponseti method of clubfoot correction

A new study compared two common treatment options for clubfoot – Ponseti method and surgical treatment. The Ponseti method was found to be more effective, with a lower recurrence rate and less invasive treatment required. Patients treated with the Ponseti method needed significantly less revision surgery.

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.

Kaiser study compares AMD drugs; Global study on RVO; Vision and falls in elders

A recent study by Kaiser Permanente has compared the effectiveness of two AMD drugs, ranibizumab (Lucentis) and bevacizumab (Avastin), while a global report highlights retinal vein occlusion prevalence worldwide. Additionally, research reveals that central vision impairment significantly increases the risk of falls in older adults.

Ability to navigate may be linked to genes, researcher says

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found a link between genes and navigation abilities in humans. People with Williams syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, struggle with reorientation tasks, indicating impaired mental visualization of room layouts.

Tweens sexual activity delayed by theory-based abstinence-only program

A new study by the University of Pennsylvania shows that an abstinence-only intervention for pre-teens can delay the onset of sexual activity. The program reduced self-reported sexual intercourse by 33% compared to a control group, with fewer reports of recent sexual activity among participants.

Novel studies of decomposition shed new light on our earliest fossil ancestry

Researchers from the University of Leicester used a new method to extract information from 500 million-year-old fossils, revealing that some early vertebrates may have been more complex than thought. The study found that decomposition altered characteristic anatomical features, providing clues for interpreting ancient fossils.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New technology aims to repair the after-effects of gum disease

Researchers have developed a new technique to restore lost bone and gum tissue following periodontal disease, using layers of cells such as stem cells and gingival fibroblasts. The method has been shown to be successful in laboratory studies and has potential applications in other fields like skin grafts.

Dog studies reveal strong risk factors for SLE

Researchers found five genome regions that increase the risk of developing an SLE-like autoimmune disorder in dogs. The study identified strong risk factors that may double the risk of human SLE, and could provide new avenues for studying the disease.

Seeing the brain hear reveals surprises about how sound is processed

Neurobiologists at the University of Maryland discovered that the brain's auditory cortex is more complex and chaotic than previously thought, with neighboring neurons creating different outputs. This disorder could indicate that the brain is far more adaptable than previously thought.

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.

Gene function discovery: Guilt by association

Researchers created AraNet, a network that connects over 19,600 plant genes based on physical neighborhood and co-expression patterns. The network accurately predicted the functions of three uncharacterized genes in Arabidopsis thaliana, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize fundamental plant biology and agricultural research.

HIV researchers solve key puzzle after 20 years of trying

Researchers have grown a crystal that reveals the structure of integrase, an enzyme found in HIV, and how it interacts with antiretroviral drugs. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for HIV by understanding how existing drugs work and how to improve them.

Cells send dirty laundry home to mom

Scientists have discovered a mechanism by which yeast cells transport damaged proteins to mother cells using conveyor-like structures called actin cables. This process ensures that newly formed daughter cells are born without age-related damage, paving the way for potential treatments of age-related diseases.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Biomarker could help doctors tailor treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers have identified a biomarker that can help predict which patients with rheumatoid arthritis are likely to benefit from therapy with TNF-antagonist drugs. The study found that patients with higher baseline levels of type I interferon and increased IFN-beta/alpha ratio were more likely to respond to therapy.

UC Davis researchers identify brain protein for synapse development

A new study from UC Davis Health System identifies a key protein called SynDIG1 that plays a crucial role in creating and sustaining synapses, essential for learning, memory, and perception. The research fills a major gap in understanding the molecular foundations of higher cognitive abilities and brain disorders.

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.

Study recommends better handling of milk in restaurants

One-third of analyzed milk samples exceed EU microbe contamination limits, according to a study by researchers from the University of Valencia. The experts advise against keeping milk in jugs and recommend better cleaning practices for utensils.

AGU Journal highlights – Jan. 29, 2010

New research reveals heat from the Pacific Ocean is responsible for Arctic sea ice loss. Satellite radar can accurately measure hurricane wind speeds. Nitrogen dynamics may accelerate global warming by constraining carbon dioxide absorption.

2 NASA satellites see TD11S going extra-tropical

NASA's TRMM and Aqua satellites observe TD11S's rainfall patterns and temperatures, indicating it is becoming extra-tropical. The storm's center is fully exposed from the west, making it susceptible to drier air or wind shear that can weaken it.

ARS genetic analysis helps spot sugarcane rusts

Agricultural Research Service scientists analyzed over 160 sugarcane samples from 25 countries to identify genetic resistance to deadly orange and brown rusts. The study provides valuable resources for plant breeders and pathologists, supporting international food security.

CCNY biologists identify new spiny pocket mouse species

Biologists at City College of New York have identified a new spiny pocket mouse species, Heteromys catopterius, found in four wet mountainous forest regions along Venezuela's northern coast. The species differs from the Caribbean Spiny Pocket Mouse in darker fur and skull morphology.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Linheng Li proposes novel theory for mammalian stem cell regulation

Researchers propose a model of adult stem cell regulation that explains how coexistence of quiescent and active stem cell populations supports tissue renewal and regeneration. The new model suggests separate functional roles for both sub-populations, which may also contribute to cancer drug resistance.

Tropical Storm Nisha being battered by wind shear

Tropical Storm Nisha is experiencing light-moderate rainfall and moderate vertical wind shear, weakening the storm. It is forecast to move slowly eastward and dissipate over the latter half of the weekend.

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.

Tropical Storm Olga: Three times a lady

NASA satellite imagery shows Tropical Storm Olga regaining strength in the Gulf of Carpentaria, with estimated sea level pressure near 989 millibars. Residents in Northern Territory and Queensland are under tropical cyclone warnings and watches due to expected landfall on January 30.

Kentucky research looks at respiratory weakness in ICU morbidity

A University of Kentucky researcher is studying respiratory weakness as a factor in ICU morbidity, which can lead to prolonged stays and lengthy recovery times. The study aims to develop new treatments that could slow down muscle wasting and reduce reliance on mechanical ventilation.

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.

New paper describes important advance in imaging of cell death

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame describe a significant advance in imaging cell death using synthetic probes. The new method can distinguish between healthy and dying cells in tumors, potentially aiding in tumor grading and treatment effectiveness measurement.

Next generation weather/environmental satellite marks major milestone

The Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) has been delivered and will be integrated onto the NPP spacecraft, providing highly detailed imagery of clouds, vegetation, and environmental phenomena. The NPOESS Preparatory Project aims to extend the time series environmental data records initiated with NASA's Earth Observing Sys...

New computational tool for cancer treatment

Researchers have successfully designed new IDO inhibitors using a docking algorithm, with 50% of in silico designs showing activity against human tumors. The computational tool, EADock, has shown promise for future drug developments in cancer-immunotherapy.

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.

Grandpa's broken hip may mean weaker bones for his grandsons

A Swedish study of over 3,700 grandparents and their grandsons found that men with a male relative who suffered a hip fracture had up to 5% less bone density and 4% smaller bones than those without. This reduction in bone size increases the risk of fractures threefold.

Can blocking a frown keep bad feelings at bay?

Researchers found that blocking facial expressions can hinder our ability to understand emotions in written language. Tiny applications of Botox reduced reading times for angry and sad sentences.

How many argon atoms can fit on the surface of a carbon nanotube?

Researchers used single-walled carbon nanotubes to study phase transition behavior of argon and krypton atoms. They found that the nanotube's electrical resistance changed when krypton atoms stuck to the surface, and demonstrated sensitivity to individual atom landings.