Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive February 2010


Page 15 of 22

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Questions remain on bariatric surgery for adolescents

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding surgery may be a better alternative to gastric bypass surgery for treating obesity in teens. While studies show greater weight loss with the bands, complication rates and cost-effectiveness remain concerns.

Study: End-of-life care must reflect patient wishes and values

A study by Brown University researchers highlights the need for better decision-making in end-of-life care, particularly for hospitalized nursing home residents with advanced dementia. The study found that feeding tubes are used variably among hospitals, with larger or for-profit hospitals using them more frequently.

Early life stress may predict cardiovascular disease

A recent study found that early life stress can predict an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Researchers used a proven model of chronic behavioral stress on rat pups and found that animals with early life stress had increased blood pressure and inflammation in their blood vessel walls upon reaching adulthood.

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.

Molecular pathways linked to sex, age affect outcomes in lung cancer

The study found that molecular pathways involved in women's lung cancer are less complex than those in men, while elderly patients over 70 have a low-risk profile for long-term survival. The findings may help explain why certain groups of patients do better than others despite having the same disease.

Urbanization, export crops drive deforestation

A new study reveals that urban growth and agricultural exports are major drivers of tropical deforestation, contrary to previous assumptions. The study found that industrial-scale clearing in countries like Brazil, Indonesia, and Cambodia is driven by demand for products like palm oil, soybeans, and meat.

Barcelona becomes part of a worldwide research on tuberculosis

The Tuberculosis Trials Consortium (TBTC) brings together researchers from Barcelona, the US CDC and international partners to develop new treatments and diagnostic tests for TB. With over 12,000 patients enrolled, the consortium aims to improve TB control and prevention globally.

Adapting to clogged airways makes common pathogen resist powerful drugs

A recent study led by Dr. Lucas Hoffman found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common pathogen in cystic fibrosis lung infections, can resist powerful antibiotics due to adapting to the clogged airways. The mutation enables the bacteria to thrive in viscous lung secretions and survive oxidative stress caused by antibiotic treatment.

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.

Brain scans track hoop fans' happy memories

Researchers at Duke University used brain scans to study the emotional impact of sports on memory. The study found that fans remember successful shots by their own team better than misses or opposing team successes. Positive emotion improves memory and activates multiple brain areas, including the amygdala and hippocampus.

Mescal 'worm' test shows DNA leaks into preservatives

Researchers found that mescal contains DNA of the agave butterfly caterpillar, despite only using 40% ethanol. The discovery enables the development of inexpensive and non-invasive genetic analysis protocols for preserved specimens.

Lactobacillus improves Helicobacter pylori infected gastritis

Researchers found that two Lactobacillus strains improved Helicobacter pylori-infected gastritis by exhibiting anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. The study suggests using probiotics as an alternative to antibiotics for treating H. pylori-associated diseases.

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.

Helicobacter pylori and EBV in gastric carcinomas

Research associates H. pylori and EBV infections with gastric cancer development, particularly through DNA methylation and microsatellite instability alterations. CDH1 gene silencing and DAPK inverse correlation with MSI offer new insights into disease mechanisms.

Predicting effectiveness of flu vaccination campaigns

A new study predicts the impact and cost-effectiveness of different vaccination options for pandemic influenza, revealing that prioritizing high-risk individuals is likely very cost-effective. The model was applied to the 2009 H1N1 outbreak and accurately predicted when the epidemic would peak and who should be vaccinated.

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.

March/April 2010 GSA Bulletin Highlights

This article highlights new findings on late Cenozoic deformation in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, an important structure in the Arabia-Eurasia collision zone. The study also reports on a crucial upper age bound for the disappearance of the North Tian Shan Ocean and collision between the Yili and Junggar blocks in western China.

Depression and lack of concentration do not necessarily go together

A review of nearly 20 years of literature found that depression does not always lead to cognitive difficulties such as memory problems or difficulties concentrating and paying attention. Processing speed was the cognitive function most often affected by depression, with a slower capability when individuals are depressed.

Low forms of cyclin E reduce breast cancer drug's effectiveness

M.D. Anderson researchers discover that low-molecular-weight (LMW-E) forms of cyclin E render aromatase inhibitor letrozole ineffective in women with estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancers. A CDK2 inhibitor can reverse letrozole resistance, offering a potential treatment option for patients.

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.

Cells can read damaged DNA without missing a beat

Researchers found that cells' DNA-reading machinery can bypass certain types of damaged DNA, leading to mutagenesis and potential antibiotic resistance in bacteria. This discovery has important implications for understanding how bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics.

Single gene mutation induces endometrial cancer

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered a single gene mutation that induces endometrial cancer, which can be treated with a specific drug therapy. The study found that women with this mutation may respond well to 'rapalogs' and could benefit from targeted treatment.

SAGE to publish the Journal of Histochemistry & Cytochemistry

The Journal of Histochemistry & Cytochemistry will be published by SAGE beginning with volume 59 in 2011. The journal focuses on significant advances in visual techniques providing biochemical and molecular information about cells, tissues, and organs.

Resistant wheat goes for the gut to protect against Hessian flies

Researchers at Purdue University have discovered that resistant wheat plants stave off attacks by Hessian fly larvae by destroying their midgut and preventing nutrient absorption. The study found that the midgut disruption is caused by a toxic substance called lectin, which is produced by the plant in response to the fly's presence.

What was that? Unraveling a 400-million-year-old mystery

A recent study resolves a long-standing mystery surrounding the giant fossil Prototaxites. Researchers propose that these ancient organisms were mixotrophic liverworts associated with fungi and cyanobacteria. The findings support previous hypotheses that microbial associations and mixotrophy are ancient plant traits.

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.

A common cholesterol drug fights cataracts, too

A new study from Tel Aviv University has found that statins significantly reduce the risk of cataracts in men and women under 75. The study covered over 180,000 patients and showed a 38% lower risk for men aged 45-54 and an 18% lower risk for women of similar age.

High-performance microring resonator developed by INRS researchers

Developed by INRS researchers, the new microring resonator offers several advantages, including low-cost fabrication and a single low-power laser source to obtain multiple wavelengths. This technological breakthrough is crucial as electronic devices reach their data transmission capacity limit.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

High prevalence of AF found among cross-country skiers

A study of elite cross-country skiers reveals a high prevalence of atrial fibrillation, with rates significantly higher than in the general population. The study identified two key risk factors: slow heart rate at rest and large left atrium size, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role.

Great tits: birds with character

Researchers found a strong association between the DRD4 gene and novelty seeking behavior in great tits, but results varied across different populations. The study's findings mirror those of human research, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role in shaping personality traits.

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.

Handling emergencies online

Research suggests that online social networking sites can facilitate faster information dissemination, provide timely information sources, and re-connect people affected by disasters. However, concerns about technology failure, credibility, and usability issues need to be addressed in developing emergency online networks.

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.

A useful tool to diagnose primary biliary cirrhosis

Researchers found that patients with primary biliary cirrhosis predominantly express IgM in plasma cells, which can be used to distinguish the condition from autoimmune hepatitis. The study supports the use of IgM/IgG ratio as a diagnostic tool for PBC.

Studies unclear on role of pre-surgery beta blockers

Heart specialists at Michigan Medicine call for clarity on beta blocker prescribing before surgery. Previous studies have differing methods and results, making it hard to determine who should get beta blockers and at what dosage.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The Glass Cliff: Female representation in politics and business

Research by Dr. Michelle Ryan found that women are more likely to be appointed to powerful leadership positions when an organization is in crisis or high-risk circumstances, a phenomenon known as the 'glass cliff'. This stereotype is often reinforced and self-perpetuating, with women continuing to face challenges in politics and business.

Drinking milk during pregnancy may lower baby's risk of MS

A preliminary study found that drinking milk during pregnancy can reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) in babies. The study, presented at the American Academy of Neurology's Annual Meeting, revealed that high milk and vitamin D intake during pregnancy lowered the risk of MS by up to 56%.

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.

Study: Cell-phone bans while driving have more impact in dense, urban areas

A new study analyzing the impact of hand-held cell phone legislation on driving safety concludes that usage-ban laws had more of an impact in densely populated urban areas with a higher number of licensed drivers than in rural areas. The study found lower fatal accident rates and personal injury accidents in counties with high driver d...

Family meals, adequate sleep and limited TV may lower childhood obesity

A new national study suggests that preschool-aged children with household routines of eating dinner as a family, getting adequate sleep, and limiting weekday TV viewing time have an almost 40% lower prevalence of obesity. Adopting these three routines could be an attractive obesity-prevention strategy for families with young children.

Hand-grip strength associated with poor survival

A study published in CMAJ found that low handgrip strength at 85 and 89 years is associated with increased all-cause mortality, highlighting its potential as a tool to assess mortality. The researchers also found that handgrip strength has a greater impact on mortality as people age.

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 reveals new details on the dangers of third-hand smoke

A recent study has found that nicotine in third-hand smoke reacts with nitrous acid to produce dangerous carcinogens, posing a significant health risk to infants and toddlers. The researchers also discovered that even opening windows or using fans does not eliminate the hazard of third-hand smoke.

Chocoholic mice fear no pain

A study found that stressed mice seek chocolate despite painful consequences, mirroring human compulsive eating behavior. Researchers trained mice with a history of hunger to overcome their fear of certain foods.