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Science News Archive February 2010 - Page 12


Page 12 of 22

Fog has declined in past century along California's redwood coast

A study by University of California, Berkeley scientists found that California's coastal fog has decreased significantly over the past 100 years, from 56% to 42%, due to a decline in the coast-inland temperature gradient. This change may lead to drought-stress for redwood ecosystems and potentially impact recruitment of new trees.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

Simple test may help judge concussion in athletes

Researchers developed a simple and inexpensive device to measure reaction time, which showed slower reaction times after concussions. The test was found to be effective in determining readiness to return to play for Division I college athletes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 15, 2010
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Why today's galaxies don't make as many stars as they used to

Astronomers have found that typical galaxies still hold sufficient quantities of gas and dust for star formation, but their efficiency has slowed down over cosmic time. This means that present-day galaxies form fewer stars due to a decrease in gas and dust supplies rather than a change in their ability to make stars.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateFeb 15, 2010

Brain-controlled cursor doubles as a neural workout

Researchers at the University of Washington studied brain signals in eight patients awaiting epilepsy surgery, finding that imagined movements can strengthen brain activity. After less than 10 minutes of practice, brain signals from imagined movement became significantly stronger than when actually performing the physical motion.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

CIHR grants $5 million to MUHC/McGill research

Two research teams from McGill University Health Centre and McGill University will analyze the effects of brominated flame retardants and phthalates on human reproduction. The five-year study aims to understand the mechanisms underlying these substances' toxicity and their potential impact on future generations.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·DateFeb 15, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Seniors stymied in wait for kidney transplants

A third of seniors over 65 wait too long for lifesaving kidney transplants because their doctors don't list them for organs suitable for younger patients but not for themselves. Older adults have shorter life spans than younger recipients, but accepting older kidneys can increase survival rates.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateFeb 15, 2010

Medicare data reveals differences in orthopedic surgical outcomes

The study found that more specialized hospitals had better outcomes for patients undergoing hip and knee replacement surgery, with fewer serious complications and deaths. Hospitals that performed a higher volume of orthopedic surgeries were categorized as more specialized.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·DateFeb 15, 2010
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.

Free trade, loss of support systems crippling food production in Africa

A new study by Oregon State University researchers concludes that free trade reforms have caused declining food production and increased poverty in African nations. The reforms, which began in the mid-1980s, eliminated critical support systems for poor farmers, leading to food riots and a hunger crisis.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

2009 AAAS Mentor Award goes to Luis Colón of the University at Buffalo

Luis Colón, a University at Buffalo chemistry professor, received the 2009 AAAS Mentor Award for his efforts to recruit and mentor Hispanic-American students in chemistry. His initiatives led to an increase in Ph.D. degrees awarded to Hispanic-Americans in chemistry.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 15, 2010

Researchers study mosquito genes to learn how they survive a parasite that causes malaria

A team of researchers at Kansas State University has identified genes in mosquito blood cells whose expression changes with malaria infection. Understanding these genes could help develop new prevention strategies for the disease. The study sheds light on the mosquito's immune system and its ability to defend against parasites.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010
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.

Team develops new weapon to fight disease-causing bacteria, malaria

A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has discovered a potent inhibitor for malaria parasites and disease-causing bacteria, including tuberculosis. The compound, PPP, is 1,000 times more potent than previous inhibitors and targets an enzyme called IspH, which promotes the synthesis of essential compounds.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

Certain pain medications do not appear to be associated with skin cancer risk

According to a study published in Archives of Dermatology, regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is not associated with an increased risk of squamous cell skin cancer. The study found that NSAID users were not at a higher risk for squamous cell carcinoma regardless of duration or dose.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateFeb 15, 2010

Using gold nanoparticles to hit cancer where it hurts

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a system using gold nanoparticles that can kill cancer cells by targeting their nuclei, preventing cell division and inducing apoptosis. This breakthrough offers a promising treatment for cancers in areas inaccessible to traditional laser-based therapies.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 15, 2010

Joshua E. Neimark Memorial Travel Assistance Award winners

Three young scientists will receive financial support to attend the AAAS Annual Meeting to present their research on topics including a science teaching strategy, HIV medication synthesis, and DNA integrity analysis. The award aims to help them attain careers in their chosen fields.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 15, 2010
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.

Enzyme design with remote effects

Chemists at Max Planck Institute develop enzyme that converts diverse molecules enantioselectively, producing desired biological activity. By modifying amino acids distant from the reaction site, they create an optimized catalyst with improved efficiency and selectivity.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

Lou's clues lead to nano revelation

Gold and silver nanowires can form strong bonds without the need for heat, a breakthrough that could simplify the creation of high-density electronic devices. The discovery was made by Rice University researchers who observed the self-healing process under an electron microscope.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 15, 2010

Attacking cancer cells with hydrogel nanoparticles

Using hydrogels to deliver small interfering RNA (siRNA) into cancer cells has been shown to effectively target and kill them. The technique inhibits EGFR growth, increasing programmed cell death and enhancing the effects of traditional chemotherapy.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBMC Cancer·DateFeb 15, 2010

Cows: More freedom may mean less milk

Researchers investigated Norwegian Red cattle's performance and health in free-stall and tie-stall systems. Free-stall cows in small herds produced significantly less milk due to increased fighting time, while larger herds offset this loss.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalActa Veterinaria Scandinavica·DateFeb 15, 2010
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 common thread links multiple human cognitive disorders

A new study reveals that chromatin proteins defective in RTT, CdLS, and ATR-X syndromes are associated with each other and regulate imprinted genes. This cooperation may explain similarities between the associated human syndromes.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 15, 2010

2009 AAAS Philip Hauge Abelson Award presented to Francis S. Collins, M.D.

Francis S. Collins, M.D., has been selected to receive the 2009 AAAS Philip Hauge Abelson Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to science. He is recognized for his exceptional skills as a scientist, communicator, and leader, as well as his pioneering work on the Human Genome Project.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 15, 2010

OHSU researchers discover cellular mechanism that protects against disease

Researchers at OHSU have discovered a mechanism that detects and destroys faulty G-protein coupled receptors, which can cause disease. The discovery increases understanding of how these receptors work and will lead to better therapeutic development.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

Bone-anchored hearing aids help youth with single-sided deafness

Bone-anchored hearing aids significantly improved scores on both hearing tests and questionnaires for children with single-sided deafness. The complication rate was 17%, but the treatment has been shown to be beneficial in counseling children and their families regarding treatment options.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateFeb 15, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

IU research team discovers TB disease mechanism and molecule to block it

Indiana University researchers have identified a mechanism used by the tuberculosis bacterium to evade the body's immune system and discovered a compound that can block its survival. The IU team synthesized the compound I-A09, which successfully blocked the TB bacterium's activity in laboratory tests.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

Winter Olympics: Experts discuss altitude and performance

Experts say altitude affects athletes' times due to less oxygen delivery to muscles and reduced air density, impacting speed skating, ski jumping, and skiing events. Athletes need time to adjust to changes in projectile motion and breathing at high altitudes.

SourceIndiana University·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateFeb 15, 2010
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.

Study: secondary stroke prevention needs improvement

Researchers found that 18% of people with an initial stroke had a recurrent stroke within four years, and the risk of recurrence rose steadily after one year. The study highlights the need for better secondary stroke prevention strategies to reduce mortality and morbidity rates.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 15, 2010

Severe sleep apnea decreases frequency of nightmare recall

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly decreases the frequency of nightmare recall. The study involved 393 patients with high-frequency severe OSA and reported a decline in frequent nightmare recall as sleep apnea severity increased.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateFeb 15, 2010

Physicists play Lego with photons

Researchers at the University of Calgary have successfully stacked up to two photons on top of one another using quantum entanglement, enabling the creation of various quantum states of light. This achievement brings physicists closer to developing new capabilities in measurement instruments, computers, and secure communication systems.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 14, 2010
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.

Cameras of the future: heart researchers create revolutionary photographic technique

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a groundbreaking technology that combines high-resolution still images with very high-speed video footage. This innovation is expected to revolutionize various fields, including science, industry, and consumer sectors, by providing access to detailed imaging at an affordable price.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 14, 2010

Caltech researchers obtain first brain recordings from behaving fruit flies

Researchers at Caltech have recorded brain-cell activity in actively flying fruit flies, revealing that the visual system becomes more sensitive during flight. The study suggests that this increased sensitivity is linked to a neurochemical release that sets the animal's brain in a different state.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 14, 2010
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.

Shifting cellular energy metabolism may help treat cardiovascular disease

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified several FDA-approved agents that can shift cellular energy metabolism processes, including an over-the-counter anti-nausea drug, meclizine. This approach may offer new therapeutic strategies for treating heart attack and stroke.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 14, 2010

Biologists image birth of blood-forming stem cells in embryo

Researchers at UC San Diego have identified the region in vertebrates where adult blood stem cells arise during embryonic development. This discovery is a critical step towards developing safer and more effective stem cell therapies for patients with leukemia, multiple myeloma, and other diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateFeb 14, 2010

Bacteria-killing proteins cover blood type blind spot

Scientists at Emory University School of Medicine discovered a set of bacteria-killing proteins that recognize human blood type molecules on bacterial surfaces. These proteins, galectin-4 and galectin-8, can kill certain strains of E.coli within minutes.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2010
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.

Quitting smoking especially difficult for select groups

Researchers report on effective treatments targeting racial and ethnic minorities, psychiatric disorders, and families with asthma. Cognitive-behavioral therapy significantly increased quit rates among African-American smokers, while family-focused approaches showed promising results for Latino families.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateFeb 12, 2010

IEEE-USA awards $8,000 to undergraduates, journalists

IEEE-USA presents $8,000 in scholarship awards and honoraria to recognize outstanding engineering video entries and public awareness contributions. Five undergraduate students from UNLV and LeTourneau University receive scholarships, while two journalists from Fox 5 Morning News and National Academy of Engineering are honored for their...

SourceIEEE-USA·DateFeb 12, 2010

Plant buffers may limit spread of antibiotics in animal waste

Research by scientists at the University of Missouri Center for Agroforestry suggests that buffer strips can trap and break down veterinary antibiotics in manure fertilizers. The finding aims to mitigate concerns about the use of veterinary antibiotics in livestock farming, which may lead to drug-resistant bacteria and ecosystem harm.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAgroforestry Systems·DateFeb 12, 2010

New fiber nanogenerators could lead to electric clothing

Researchers at UC Berkeley developed energy-scavenging nanofibers that can harness body movements to power hand-held electronics. The fibers have piezoelectric properties and high efficiency rates, enabling the creation of wearable 'smart clothes' with no perceptible change in comfort for users.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 12, 2010
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.

Breakthrough for mobile television

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has developed a breakthrough technology for mobile television using Long Term Evolution (LTE), which offers higher performance capacity than UMTS. This enables seamless adaptive communication without disruptions, ensuring high-quality video streaming on the go.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateFeb 12, 2010

Epigenetic signals differ across alleles

Epigenetic signals vary across alleles in numerous genomic regions, influencing gene expression and regulation. The study reveals over 35,000 such sites across the genome, with implications for genetic studies of complex diseases, including psychiatric conditions.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 12, 2010

Scientists synthesize unique family of anti-cancer compounds

Researchers at Yale University have streamlined the synthesis of a family of compounds known as kinamycins, which are naturally produced by bacteria and show potent toxicity. By reducing the number of steps required to synthesize them from 24 to 12, the team can now prepare these molecules in larger quantities for further studies.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 12, 2010

Master gene SRC-3 enables breast cancer growth, invasion

The SRC-3 gene enhances breast cancer growth and invasion by activating cell motility, allowing cancer cells to invade surrounding tissue. Researchers found that the gene enables an alternative form of its coactivator protein to function at the cell membrane, leading to increased cancer spread.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 12, 2010
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.

Where did insects come from?

A team of researchers has completed a new analysis of the evolutionary relationships among arthropods, providing a solid grasp of what those relationships are. The study makes a major contribution to our understanding of the nature and origins of the planet's biodiversity.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalNature·DateFeb 12, 2010

Positioning with awiloc

awiloc software uses received signal strength data from WLAN transmitters to calculate position without data communications. This technology is integrated into various platforms, including Windows Mobile and Android, with support for iPhone expected by summer.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateFeb 12, 2010