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Science News Archive April 2010


Page 15 of 24

Lab that probes genetic clues to disease is poised for major expansion

The Rutgers University Cell and DNA Repository is experiencing unprecedented demand for its services, doubling every two to three years, due to the growing need for genetic clues to autism, schizophrenia, and other diseases. The new expansion will turn the repository into a robotics-driven laboratory, allowing for deeper and finer geno...

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.

Patents block competition, slow innovation in gene testing

Exclusive licenses to gene patents hinder competition and innovation in genetic testing, according to researchers at the Duke Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy. The findings suggest that overly broad patent claims are the primary issue, rather than patents themselves.

Inability to taste a bitter compound linked to obesity

A study by Rutgers University Professor Beverly Tepper examines the link between tasting a bitter compound and obesity risk in women. Non-tasters tend to consume more added fats, suggesting a potential connection between genetic traits and dietary habits.

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.

Mixed-race people perceived as 'more attractive'

A random sample of 1205 black, white, and mixed-race faces showed mixed-race individuals were rated as more attractive. The study's findings suggest a biological phenomenon known as heterosis may contribute to this perception.

Childhood body size affects future breast cancer chances

Researchers discovered that larger body types at age seven were associated with a decreased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. The study found that leaner girls had an increased risk of breast cancer, while larger bodies were protective against estrogen receptor negative tumours.

Childhood obesity interventions must begin early, UCSF experts say

Experts recommend including interventions that reduce weight gain in mothers-to-be and increase breastfeeding time to create a comprehensive anti-obesity program. This approach has the potential to alter the course of the childhood obesity epidemic, particularly among low-income children and ethnic minorities.

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.

Mayo Clinic: 2-drug combo twice as effective for Crohn's disease remission

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients with moderate to severe Crohn's disease who received combination therapy with infliximab and azathioprine had a higher chance of achieving remission compared to those treated with azathioprine alone. The researchers also discovered comparable safety results ac...

Philosopher brings human values to environmental decisions

Sahotra Sarkar, a philosopher at the University of Texas at Austin, is working with Conservation International and energy companies to develop environmentally conscious development plans. His approach prioritizes local values and biodiversity protection, rejecting the 'fortress model' of preservation.

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.

Slumber aids could improve intensive care outcomes

Researchers found that earplugs and eye masks improved sleep quality, increased REM sleep, and reduced arousals in ICU patients. The study suggests promoting routine use of these aids to potentially enhance clinical outcomes.

Queen's physicist awarded prestigious Killam Prize

Art McDonald, a world-renowned expert in nuclear and particle physics, has been awarded the 2010 Killam Prize for his groundbreaking work on neutrinos. His research at Queen's Sudbury Neutrino Observatory led to a deeper understanding of neutrino properties and their effects in the early universe.

ARS researching camelina as a new biofuel crop

The US Department of Agriculture's ARS is conducting long-term studies to examine growing camelina as a bioenergy crop. Camelina has high oil content, making it a promising candidate for producing biofuels.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Treat acne with coconut oil and nano-bombs

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego developed a smart delivery system capable of delivering lauric-acid-filled nano-scale bombs directly to skin-dwelling bacteria that cause common acne. This treatment has the potential to avoid undesirable side effects associated with current treatments.

Genetic patterns rise from huge yeast samples

Researchers have devised a method to identify genetic material responsible for complex traits in millions of yeast cells, shedding light on the missing heritability problem. By studying regions of the genome that cause specific traits in offspring, scientists can detect subtle patterns previously undetectable.

Exclusive licensing deals a tool for collaboration, study says

Researchers found that exclusive licensing deals are a tool for collaboration and risk management in product development, allowing innovators to manage risks while leveraging cooperation. The study analyzed over 200 exclusive licensing deals and suggests that granting rights to a sole partner can curb risk and incentivize cooperation.

Lost light from the moon may be sent astray by dusty reflectors

Researchers investigating lunar reflector performance report decreased signal strength during full moon, suggesting dust may be a culprit. The issue arises from uneven heating of glass cubes left behind by Apollo astronauts, which distorts the shape of reflected laser pulses.

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.

Wildlife still exposed to Exxon Valdez oil 20 years after disaster

Scientists have discovered lingering oil from the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill is still being ingested by wildlife in Prince William Sound. The study used biomarkers to reveal long-term exposure to oil in harlequin ducks, demonstrating that consequences of oil spills can last for decades.

Decoding tumor genomes reveals clues to spread of deadly breast cancer

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine sequenced a patient's genome and that of her breast tumor and brain metastasis, identifying 20 genetic changes linked to the deadly spread. The study suggests that sequencing entire genomes can reveal clues to tumor progression and metastasis, paving the way for new drug targets.

Printed origami offers new technique for complex structues

The University of Illinois team developed a novel method for creating complex three-dimensional structures using printed origami techniques. The technique allows for the rapid assembly of biocompatible devices, microscaffolding, and other microsystems, with potential applications in biomedical devices, electronics, and more.

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.

Why humans believe that better things come to those who wait

New research identifies a brain circuit that enables humans to make choices with high long-term benefits by delaying reward. The study found that vividly imagining the future reduces impulsive choice behavior, suggesting the anterior cingulate cortex plays a key role in dynamic adjustment of preference functions.

Pinning down a proton

Researchers have developed a new method for describing proton and neutron binding in nuclei, enabling more accurate predictions of astrophysical reactions. This breakthrough may improve our understanding of star life cycles.

Experiment shows brief meditative exercise helps cognition

A new study suggests that just four days of mindfulness meditation can significantly improve cognitive skills, including critical thinking and sustained attention. Participants who received the meditation training performed up to ten times better on a computer adaptive n-back task than those who listened to a book.

Hopkins researchers put proteins right where they want them

Researchers expanded a method to move proteins inside cells to specific organelles, enabling rapid manipulation of protein activities. By studying the signaling protein Ras, they gained insights into how proteins contribute to cellular responses and signal division and growth.

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.

Cat brain: A step toward the electronic equivalent

Researchers are developing a computer inspired by the feline brain's ability to recognize faces and learn from experience. The project aims to create a machine that can perform tasks simultaneously, like recognizing faces, while conventional computers rely on sequential processing.

RAM founder to receive CWRU's Inamori Ethics Prize

RAM founder Stan Brock will be recognized for his 25-year commitment to delivering free healthcare worldwide. The Inamori Ethics Prize honors exemplary ethical leadership, and Brock joins Dr. Francis S. Collins and Mary Robinson as winners.

Stanford scientists find new marker to identify severe breast cancer cases

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a new genetic marker, called HOTAIR, that is significantly more prevalent in aggressive breast cancer cases. High levels of HOTAIR expression are associated with increased risk of metastasis and poorer survival rates for women with breast cancer.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

BioTorrents: An OA file sharing service and more

The study presents BioTorrents, a website that allows open access sharing of scientific data via BitTorrent. It features keyword searching, category browsing, and error checking for reliable transfers. The article discusses the implications of BioTorrents on file transfer challenges.

'Communicative fathers' help reduce teenage smoking

A three-year study involving 3,500 children found that frequent communication between fathers and their teenagers reduced the risk of smoking experimentation. Fathers play a crucial role in shaping their children's choices, highlighting the need for improved parenting guidance.

Brain cancer: Study focuses on forgotten cells

Scientists have discovered that residual glioblastoma cells have different properties than those found in the tumor mass, making them more mobile and resistant to treatment. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic approaches against this aggressive brain cancer.

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.

Stanford researchers find electrical current stemming from plants

Researchers at Stanford University have successfully harnessed a tiny electric current from algae cells using a unique nanoelectrode. This discovery could lead to the development of high-efficiency bioelectricity with zero carbon emissions. However, further improvements are needed to scale up the process and make it economically feasible.

Sequence is scaffold to study sleeping sickness

Researchers have generated a high-quality draft genome sequence for the strain of T. brucei responsible for human African trypanomiasis, a chronic disease affecting the central nervous system. The study found that the parasite's ability to infect humans is linked to subtle genetic differences, including changes in VSG genes.

Turning planetary theory upside down

Astronomers discover six exoplanets orbiting their stars in the opposite direction to the star's rotation, contradicting conventional wisdom. This finding sparks alternative migration theories, suggesting that hot Jupiters may form far from their stars and migrate inward due to gravitational interactions with distant companions.

'Vicious circle' offers new acute leukemia treatment target

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new molecular network that contributes to abnormal KIT protein abundance in acute leukemia cells. Targeting this network with therapeutic drugs may prove more effective than current standard of care.

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.

Creepy crawly cockroach ancestor revealed in new 3-D model

Scientists at Imperial College London have created a comprehensive 3D model of a fossilized cockroach ancestor, Archimylacris eggintoni, which lived around 300 million years ago. The study reveals the physical traits that helped it thrive on the forest floor, including sticky structures on its legs and claws for climbing.

Give dirty mouths a brush

A study by the Academy of General Dentistry found that triclosan/copolymer toothpaste is more effective at killing harmful germs in the mouth than regular fluoride toothpastes. This can help minimize cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Wild ferrets are spreading throughout the island of La Palma

Ferrets, introduced for rabbit hunting, are spreading across La Palma, with a growing population affecting the island's native fauna. The researchers found that the ferret population is directly related to prey availability and shelter in rural areas, highlighting concerns over their impact on bird species and endemic lizards.

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.

Birds of a feather don't always respond together to infection

A Princeton University-led team tracked fever and sickness behaviors in song sparrows using radio transmitters, discovering that different populations respond differently to infection. The study's findings may aid in forecasting where diseases will take hold, including West Nile virus.

Study: Guillain-Barré Syndrome cases low after 2009 H1N1 vaccine

Researchers analyzed vaccination data and found only 35 reports of GBS following 2009 H1N1 vaccination, a rate of 3.5 per 10 million people vaccinated. In contrast, the seasonal flu vaccination in 2009 reported 57 cases, an estimated rate of 7.3 per 10 million vaccinations.

National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping comes to Houston

The University of Houston welcomes the NSF-supported National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping, bringing cutting-edge laser mapping technology to its campus. The center aims to advance research in geosensing systems engineering, improving disaster recovery, oil and gas exploration, and environmental studies.

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.