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Science News Archive February 2010 - Page 20


Page 20 of 22

Tropical Storm Oli kicking up waves in South Pacific

Tropical Storm Oli is a large storm with high thunderstorm cloud tops and strong winds near 52 mph, affecting the islands of Bora Bora and Raratonga. The storm is expected to move southeast and pass between the islands in the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2010
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.

New neutron studies support magnetism's role in superconductors

New neutron studies provide strong evidence that magnetic properties are behind high-temperature superconductivity in both copper-based and iron-based materials. The research suggests that spin excitations play a key role in the formation of macroscopic quantum states giving rise to superconductivity.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 2, 2010

To be or to become: That's the question for advertisers

Researchers found that advertising can strongly influence consumers' desires, shifting their mindset from 'being' (current state) to 'becoming' (future goals). This study suggests advertisers should position products to fit the mindset of immediate gratification or long-term benefits.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateFeb 2, 2010

Mechanical forces could affect gene expression

Researchers at the University of Michigan have shown that small mechanical forces can control gene expression by reducing DNA looping, a common mechanism for gene regulation. The study provides new insights into how cells regulate themselves and could lead to new understandings of diseases such as cancer and cardiac disease.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 2, 2010

SIDS linked to low levels of serotonin

Researchers found serotonin levels were 26% lower in SIDS infants' brain tissue, suggesting reduced capacity to respond to breathing challenges. The findings provide important clues to the biological basis of SIDS and may lead to ways to identify high-risk infants.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 2, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Big study of dirty air inversions

A new $1.3 million study aims to understand and simulate 'cold-air pools' that trap pollutants in the Salt Lake Valley, causing poor air quality. The research will utilize models and instruments to analyze temperature and wind patterns, shedding light on the challenges of simulating these events.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateFeb 2, 2010

Groundbreaking Videourology journal launched by Mary Ann Liebert Inc.

The groundbreaking Videourology journal offers fully peer-reviewed video demonstrations of the latest urologic surgical techniques and technologies. The journal provides comprehensive search options, including videos organized by medical condition, anatomy, and surgical procedure.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Endourology·DateFeb 2, 2010

Gene variation makes alcoholism less likely in some survivors of sexual abuse

Researchers found that a specific gene variant, H2 haplotype, protects individuals with a history of child sexual abuse from heavy drinking and alcohol dependence. In contrast, those with the alternate H1 haplotype had three times the risk of heavy drinking and problems. The study suggests a potential target for therapy development.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAddiction Biology·DateFeb 2, 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.

Growth factor gene shown to be a key to cleft palate

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that a growth factor gene plays a critical role in palate development, suggesting a new target for preventing and treating cleft palate. The study's findings could lead to the development of drugs that activate or inhibit the gene to ensure normal palate growth.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2010

Parkinson's disease research uncovers social barrier

Research reveals that people with Parkinson's disease are often isolated and stigmatized based on their communication style. The study shows that negative perceptions of speech patterns can limit opportunities for social interaction and reduce full participation in society.

SourceMcGill University·DateFeb 2, 2010

Psychiatric patient suicides can be prevented

A study found that psychiatric patients who absconded from wards were more likely to be young, unemployed, and homeless with high rates of schizophrenia and substance misuse. Improving ward environments and implementing tighter controls on exits may help prevent these cases.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study: Many physicians not using established criteria

A new study found that many non-psychiatrist physicians and a substantial minority of psychiatrists reported infrequently using the DSM-IV criteria to diagnose major depressive disorder. This could lead to unnecessary medication prescriptions for patients who do not have major depression.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2010

UF researchers: Ancient crocodile relative likely food source for Titanoboa

Researchers from UF and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found a 60-million-year-old fossil of Cerrejonisuchus improcerus, an ancient crocodile relative that was likely preyed upon by Titanoboa. The study provides new insights into the diversity of ancient South American rainforest ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateFeb 2, 2010

Aznalcóllar disaster compared with Cretaceous mass extinction

A team of scientists from the University of Granada compared the Aznalcóllar spillage to the Cretaceous mass extinction event, finding similarities in sudden impact and high levels of toxic compounds. The study suggests that ecosystems can recover rapidly following such disasters, with evidence of life re-emerging within years.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalGeobiology·DateFeb 2, 2010

Doctors miss major cause of infertility and obesity

About 5 million women in the US suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a metabolic disorder causing infertility and obesity. Women are often told they are too fat, leading to delayed diagnoses, expert Andrea Dunaif advocates for increased awareness and treatment.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 2, 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.

Rapid breathing, parental concern, and doctor's instinct among the red flags warning of serious infection in children in developed countries

A systematic review highlights clinical features that confirm or exclude the possibility of serious infection in children presenting to general practice. Clinical features like cyanosis, poor peripheral perfusion, and petechial rash are deemed red flags, while parental concern and doctor's instinct are strong indicators.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 2, 2010

3-D scaffold provides clean, biodegradable structure for stem cell growth

Materials scientists at the University of Washington have developed a three-dimensional scaffold made from natural materials that mimic the binding sites for stem cells. Human embryonic stem cells grow and multiply readily on this structure, offering a clean and biodegradable alternative to traditional feeder layers.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 2, 2010

New way to lose fat, keep the lean

Scientists have identified a new mechanism that helps the body burn more energy, leading to increased fat burning and lean muscle mass. The study suggests that targeting the Fyn kinase enzyme may offer a promising approach for developing new weight loss treatments.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 2, 2010
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.

Play yourself healthy

A large-scale research project at the University of Copenhagen found that soccer is an effective form of exercise for improving cardiovascular risk factors, including maximal oxygen uptake and blood pressure. Small-sided games also showed significant gains in terms of cardio and strength training.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateFeb 2, 2010

Scientists map out regulatory regions of genome, hot spots for diabetes genes

Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill created a first-of-its-kind map of the human genome's regulatory elements, revealing clusters specific to pancreatic islet cells. The study identified genetic variants associated with type II diabetes and found that certain genes are 'turned on' or 'off', opening new avenues for understanding the disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 2, 2010

Cholesterol's link to heart disease gets clearer -- and more complicated

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the relationship between cholesterol and heart disease, finding that it's not just one factor at play but rather a complex interplay of immune cells and proteins. The study highlights the importance of restoring the balance of this network to prevent vascular disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 2, 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.

Low production of serotonin in the brainstem a likely cause for SIDS

A new study finds that infants who die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have lower levels of serotonin in their brainstem compared to those who die from other causes. This deficiency may impair the function of brainstem circuits, putting babies at risk for sudden death during sleep.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 2, 2010

Suicides by mental health patients preventable, says report

A new report suggests that preventing patients from leaving psychiatric wards without staff agreement could avoid up to 50 suicide deaths every year. The study found that improving the ward environment and staff training may contribute to reduced risk of in-patient suicides, particularly among high-risk groups.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2010

3 brain diseases linked by toxic form of same neural protein

A toxic form of the neural protein Elk-1 is linked to three degenerative brain disorders: Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease. The study found that this modified form of Elk-1 strongly associates with pathological markers present in diseased tissue from these diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2010

From Quebec to France: forced marriages still exist

Researchers estimate forced marriages occur in many countries, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Eastern Europe, where they are often used to obtain citizenship or settle debts. Despite limited data, a new study aims to shed light on this taboo issue, with plans for comparative research and interviews with victims.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateFeb 2, 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.

Researchers show applied electric field can significantly improve hydrogen storage properties

A team of researchers from Virginia Commonwealth University has identified a new theoretical approach to simplify the synthesis of hydrogen fuel storage materials. An external electric field can significantly improve the thermodynamics and reversibility of the system, making it an ideal energy carrier.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2010

Excessive Internet use is linked to depression

A large-scale UK study found that people who spend too much time online are more likely to show depressive symptoms. Internet addiction was linked to higher incidence of moderate to severe depression in young people and adults.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPsychopathology·DateFeb 2, 2010

Ultra-cold chemistry

Researchers directly observe chemical exchange processes in an ultracold sample of cesium atoms and Feshbach molecules, allowing for controlled study of chemical reactions. This breakthrough opens a new avenue to study diverse chemical reactions using ultracold quantum gases.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 2, 2010

Spherical cows help to dump metabolism law

Researchers challenge long-held 3/4-power law of metabolism with new paper, finding support for 2/3 exponent in geometry and network analysis. Empirical evidence from animal studies also aligns with 2/3 exponent, suggesting a potential universal scaling law for metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 2, 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.

Diabetes patients rank health concerns differently than their doctors, U-M survey shows

A survey by the University of Michigan Medical School found that 28% of doctors and their diabetic patients do not agree on the most important health conditions to manage. Diabetics were more likely to prioritize symptoms such as pain and depression, while doctors focused on diabetes and hypertension.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2010

Immediate risk of suicide and cardiovascular death after a prostate cancer diagnosis

A new study found that men diagnosed with prostate cancer in the US face a higher risk of suicide and cardiovascular death, particularly during the first year after diagnosis. The study suggests that providing emotional counseling and support for patients newly diagnosed with cancer may be essential to mitigate this risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 2, 2010

University of Oklahoma study reveals 'red hot' results

A new weight-loss supplement, tri-pepper blend, has been shown to burn as many calories as a 20-minute walk. The University of Oklahoma study found statistically significant results, validating product weight-loss claims through measurements of oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalThe Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research·DateFeb 2, 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.

Cancer patients become bold advocates once surviviors

A study of cancer survivors found that they become advocates for others but not themselves, suggesting a transition from passive to active care. They advise peers with cancer to seek second opinions, check doctors' credentials, and stay positive.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 2, 2010

UC Riverside's new state-of-the-art technology to accelerate stem cell research

The University of California, Riverside's new Stem Cell Core Facility will enable faster breakthroughs in stem cell research, targeting diseases such as osteoporosis and diabetes. The facility is equipped with the first-in-country Nikon BioStation CT technology, expected to provide valuable data for attacking degenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateFeb 2, 2010

Community hospitals offer a safe surgical option for some cancer surgeries

A new study by Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and the American College of Surgeons found that community hospitals can offer safe surgical options for certain types of cancer surgeries. Younger patients with few pre-existing illnesses have similar survival rates at both community hospitals and specialized cancer c...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateFeb 2, 2010
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.

Compound found that targets wide range of viruses

Researchers have developed a broad-spectrum antiviral compound that can stop a wide range of highly dangerous viruses, including those causing HIV, Ebola, and hepatitis C. The compound works by altering the lipid envelope of enveloped viruses, making them unable to fuse with host cells.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010

Immune protein fends off exotic virus

A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that type I interferons are essential for combating Chikungunya virus infection. The unexpected finding is that fibroblasts, not immune cells, produce the virus-fighting proteins during infection.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2010

Acetaminophen protects kidneys after muscle injury

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have discovered that acetaminophen can prevent oxidative damage and kidney failure after muscle injury in a rat model. The study's findings support further investigation into the drug's effects in patients with severe muscle injuries.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010

After 18, family influence still key to one's ethnic identity

A recent study found that family influence remains key to one's ethnic identity after age 18, with families teaching cultural customs and traditions leading to a greater sense of attachment to their ethnic group. This study suggests that parents play an important role in shaping young adults' exploration of their ethnicity.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Adolescence·DateFeb 1, 2010
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.

Genetically modified mice reveal another mechanism contributing to heart failure

A study using genetically modified mice reveals a previously unidentified mechanism contributing to heart failure, specifically the decreased release of neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This finding opens up a new avenue for treating failing hearts and highlights the significance of acetylcholine regulation in cardiac function.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateFeb 1, 2010

Abstinence-only intervention may play a role in preventing sexual involvement among teens

A randomized controlled trial found that an abstinence-only program targeting reduced sexual intercourse was associated with lower rates of sexual involvement among African American sixth- and seventh-graders. After 24 months, 33.5% of participants in the abstinence-only group had engaged in sex, compared to 48.5% in the control group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2010

New adhesive device could let humans walk on walls

A Cornell University team invented a palm-sized device that uses water surface tension as an adhesive bond, allowing it to stick and unstick to surfaces. The device has potential applications in shoes, gloves, and Post-it-like notes.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010

Antibodies attack immune proteins

Two studies published in Journal of Experimental Medicine reveal that patients with a rare autoimmune disease produce antibodies that bind and disarm cytokines, which fight airborne pathogens. These findings may help explain the recurring nature of these patients' yeast infections.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 1, 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.

Ecologists discover forests are growing faster

A new study published in PNAS reveals that forests in the Eastern United States are growing at an accelerated rate of 2 tons per acre annually. This growth is attributed to rising CO2 levels, increased temperatures, and longer growing seasons. The findings suggest a significant response of ecosystems to climate change.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010

New form of stem cell communication rescues diseased neurons

Researchers demonstrate that transplanted stem cells can rescue diseased neurons from death by sending signals through gap junctions, a newly recognized way of cell communication. This mechanism may play a role in both normal development and many diseases, including Huntington's disease and spinal cord injuries.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010

Evolution impacts environment, challenging traditionally held view, UC Riverside study finds

A UC Riverside study reveals that ecology and evolution are reciprocally interacting processes, with evolutionary processes influencing ecology in turn. The research found that guppies adapted to different stream communities exhibited distinct impacts on their ecosystems, including differences in diet and nutrient cycling.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010

Researchers fight world hunger by mapping the soybean genome

A team of researchers has identified 1.1 million base pairs of DNA in the soybean genome, including traits that affect plant development, disease resistance, and nutrition. This knowledge will enable scientists to create more resilient crops, reducing hunger and improving food security worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 2010
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.