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Science News Archive December 2010


Page 14 of 21

New mechanism links cellular stress and brain damage

A new study reveals that ER stress can lead to the destruction of a protein that regulates calcium signaling in neurons, causing brain damage similar to neurodegenerative diseases. The researchers found that a protective chaperone protein helps maintain the interaction between this protein and calcium signaling.

Sinking organic materials produce carbon dioxide

Researchers found that porous marine particles settle in stratified layers, releasing carbon dioxide through diffusion, affecting global carbon fluxes. This discovery could improve estimates of ocean carbon exports.

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.

Theoretical breakthrough: Generating matter and antimatter from the vacuum

University of Michigan researchers have made a theoretical breakthrough in generating matter and antimatter from the vacuum under specific conditions. The new equations show how high-energy electron beams combined with intense laser pulses can create pairs of particles and antiparticles, generating additional particles and antiparticles.

Planetary family portrait reveals another exoplanet

The discovery of the fourth giant planet in the HR 8799 system strengthens the resemblance between this exoplanetary system and our own, with all four planets being similar in size. Detailed study of HR 8799e will be challenging due to its relative faintness and proximity to its star.

What Zen meditators don't think about won't hurt them

A new study from the University of Montreal reveals that Zen meditators experience pain but don't dwell on it as much. The research suggests that meditators have a training-related ability to disengage certain brain processes, leading to lower pain sensitivity.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Different origins discovered for medulloblastoma tumor subtypes

Researchers have identified distinct subtypes of medulloblastoma brain tumors originating from unique cells, leading to different treatment approaches. The study's findings support the development of targeted therapies and aid in searching for combinations of cells and mutations that may lead to other cancers.

Rice physicists discover ultrasensitive microwave detector

Researchers at Rice University have developed a highly sensitive microwave detector using ultrapure gallium arsenide semiconductors. The discovery could enable the creation of next-generation computers with higher clock speeds, potentially reaching 100 GHz.

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.

Changes in solar activity affect local climate

Researchers at Lund University found that high solar activity cools surface water temperatures in tropical Pacific regions during the early Holocene. This phenomenon may influence current climate patterns, such as low solar activity coinciding with cold winters.

EULAR welcomes Council action to tackle chronic diseases

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) welcomes the EU Council's Conclusions on chronic diseases, which call for coordinated measures to address these conditions. EULAR highlights the importance of innovative approaches, patient-centred policies, and integrated healthcare systems to manage musculoskeletal diseases.

New pictures show fourth planet in giant version of our solar system

Astronomers have discovered a fourth giant planet in the HR8799 system, which is approximately seven times the mass of Jupiter. The system, consisting of four giant planets and two asteroid belts, is young compared to our solar system and may be on the verge of falling apart due to gravitational interactions.

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.

Whey supplements lower blood pressure

A Washington State University study found that whey-based protein supplements can significantly reduce elevated blood pressure, resulting in a more than six-point reduction in average blood pressure. The study's findings have practical implications for personal health and the dairy industry.

ASU astronomer opens new window into early universe

Researchers detect signal from the Epoch of Reionization, a period 13 billion years ago when the universe was dark and hydrogen gas dominated. The discovery provides insights into how the first galaxies formed and evolved, shedding light on the early universe's history.

Soaring is better than flapping

Researchers tracked the movement of European bee-eaters using tiny radio transmitters and found they both soar and flap their wings, saving energy. The birds use as little energy when soaring as when resting, contrary to previous studies with larger species.

Carbon-rich planet: A girl's best friend?

A gas-giant planet orbiting a sun-like star has been found to be rich in carbon, with rocks potentially made of pure diamond or graphite. The discovery challenges conventional planetary chemistry and raises questions about the possibility of life on this extreme world.

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.

See off Alzheimer's with the color purple

A groundbreaking study by Professor Douglas Kell found that poorly-bound iron causes the production of hydroxyl radicals, leading to degenerative diseases. Purple fruits and green tea are identified as excellent sources of iron chelators, which can bind iron tightly.

Study suggests cranberry juice not effective against urinary tract infections

A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that cranberry juice had no significant effect on reducing the recurrence of urinary tract infections. Among participants who suffered a second infection, those who drank cranberry juice showed a higher recurrence rate compared to those who received a placebo.

Astronomers detect first carbon-rich exoplanet

Researchers discovered a carbon-rich atmosphere in WASP-12b, suggesting rocky exoplanets could be composed of pure carbon rocks like diamond or graphite. This finding introduces an entirely new class of exotic exoplanets to explore, with implications for the possibility of life on these planets.

UCSF team develops 'logic gates' to program bacteria as computers

A team of UCSF researchers has engineered E. coli with the key molecular circuitry that enables genetic engineers to program cells to communicate and perform computations. This system can be harnessed to turn cells into miniature computers, enabling intricate functions for various purposes such as agriculture and pharmaceuticals.

Weightlifting slashes lymphedema risk after breast cancer treatment

A slowly progressive weightlifting regimen cut risk of developing lymphedema by 35 percent among breast cancer survivors. Women who had five or more lymph nodes removed during surgery saw a nearly 70 percent risk reduction, according to the study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Not-so-confidential confidantes

Researchers found that as few as three co-located images at different times and places can predict high probability of two people being socially connected. This study uses Flickr data to demonstrate the power of online data in revealing social ties, with implications for online privacy.

Scientists discover brain's inherent ability to focus learning

Researchers found that acetylcholine facilitates NMDA receptors by inhibiting SK channels, allowing for enhanced learning and memory. The discovery provides new insight into the mechanisms underlying learning and memory, with potential therapeutic applications for Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders.

Widening our perceptions of reading and writing difficulties

Two new studies reveal distinct types of reading and writing disorders, including attentional dyslexia, which causes letter migrations between words. Italian dyslexic children's spelling impairments suggest knowledge of vocabulary is crucial in spelling, contradicting previous assumptions.

Feeling included -- kids with disabilities have their say in landmark study

A landmark study explores how children with disabilities perceive inclusion in physical activities, revealing three key themes: gaining entry to play, feeling like a legitimate participant, and having friends. The research emphasizes the importance of valuing children's experiences and choices in creating inclusive environments.

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.

World's first microlaser emitting in 3-D

Researchers develop a microdroplet 3D laser system using cholesteric liquid crystals, producing the world's first practical three-dimensional laser. The design is small, tunable, cheap, and can be made by millions in seconds.

Scientists forecast new atom smashers to keep Europe leading in nuclear physics

The European Science Foundation forecasts the need for powerful new accelerator facilities to tackle fundamental questions in nuclear physics, focusing on energy, health, and environmental problems. This will enhance skills in advanced techniques transferred to industries, ensuring access to expertise in low-carbon energy, medical diag...

School-based program effective in helping adolescents

A school-based program helped New York City high school students with moderate to severe asthma better manage their symptoms, dramatically reducing the need for urgent care. The program participants experienced significant reductions in acute medical visits, emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and night awakenings.

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.

A new take on computer security

The MEDEA+ Trusted Secure Computing project has developed a family of components and software to efficiently secure computers, communications, and multimedia devices. These innovations include integrity management, user identification/authentication, and privacy management.

Therapy for incurable childhood diseases is in sight

A European research team has developed a form of therapy to treat Alpha-mannosidosis, a rare childhood disease causing mental retardation and hearing loss. The therapy, called Lamazym, aims to replace the missing enzyme in cells, increasing life expectancy and quality of life.

Water well tests show more towns with elevated arsenic in Maine

A USGS study has found large differences in arsenic concentrations from well to well, even at the town level, highlighting the need for private well owners to test their water. Elevated arsenic levels have been detected in multiple towns across Maine, posing a risk to residents' health and requiring prompt action.

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.

For some, laparoscopic technique not always better

A new study published in the Annals of Surgery found that laparoscopic appendectomies may carry a higher risk of deep abdominal infections in certain patients, including those with diabetes, smoking history, and older age. The study suggests that open surgery may be a better option for these high-risk patients.

Surgery complications linked to chemotherapy delay, U-M study finds

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that chemotherapy delays are common among patients with surgical complications after colorectal cancer surgery. The study, which analyzed data from 17,108 patients, suggests that surgical complications can have long-term impacts on quality of care.

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.

Mutation linked to protein degradation underlies inherited ALS

A new study identifies a previously unrecognized mutation in the valosin-containing protein (VCP) gene, which causes an inherited form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The research provides new insight into the disease's underlying pathology and validates the exome sequencing technique for identifying genetic causes.

Home health care could help sustain health care systems, study finds

A RAND Corporation study finds that home health care technology can empower patients to self-manage their conditions, improve health outcomes, and reduce costs. Despite its promise, adoption faces obstacles such as restrictive insurance coverage, limited patient readiness, and concerns about product design.

Frequent sex protects marital happiness for neurotic newlyweds

A study found that frequent sexual activity improves marital satisfaction among neurotic spouses, erasing their 'happiness deficit.' The effect occurred regardless of the marriage's initial happiness level. High levels of neuroticism are more strongly associated with bad marital outcomes than any other personality factor.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

French men are giving up smoking, but not French women

A French study found that men's smoking rates have decreased by 15% since the mid-1980s, resulting in a predicted decline of 10-15% in coronary heart disease deaths. In contrast, women's smoking rates have increased, leading to a predicted rise of up to 4.9% in heart disease mortality rates.

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.

'Greener' climate prediction shows plants slow warming

A NASA computer modeling effort found that increased plant growth in a world with doubled atmospheric carbon dioxide levels could create a cooling effect, reducing future global warming. The model predicts a -0.3 degrees Celsius globally and -0.6 degrees C over land.

Social tools prove powerful for online health programs

A U-M study found that adding an interactive online community to an Internet-based walking program significantly decreased participant dropout rates. Seventy-nine percent of participants who used the social component stuck with the program, while only 66% of those without it completed it.

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.

Towards an efficient, effective and equitable REDD+

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) emphasizes the need for a whole landscape approach in REDD+, considering land uses beyond forests to address deforestation drivers. This approach can help reduce problems like carbon leakage and improve forest governance.

Self-healing autonomous material comes to life

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a material that can detect and heal cracks in structural materials, increasing toughness by 11 times. The innovative 'autonomous adaptive structure' uses shape-memory polymers to mimic biological systems' healing traits.

Maintaining mobility in older age

A study using location awareness technologies found that older adults spend most of their day sitting or lying, with only a small percentage engaging in walking activities. The findings highlight the importance of providing effective transport networks and local services to support mobility.