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Science News Archive March 2010 - Page 14


Page 14 of 27

Timing is (almost) everything

Researchers at the University of Washington found that memory for visual scenes is not determined by attention level or scene content, but rather by when the scene is presented. This suggests a brain mechanism that automatically encodes certain visual features into memory at behaviorally relevant points in time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 15, 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.

U-M researchers solve a molecular mystery in muscle

Researchers at U-M have solved a long-standing mystery about how insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) work on muscle cells. IGFs promote either muscle cell differentiation or division, depending on oxygen availability.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2010

New Hubble treasury project to survey first third of cosmic time

The Hubble Multi-Cycle Treasury Program will survey the first third of cosmic time, observing over 250,000 distant galaxies to understand galaxy formation and evolution. The project aims to study the earliest stages in the formation of supermassive black holes and find distant supernovae important for understanding dark energy.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateMar 15, 2010

When did the first 'modern' human beings appear in the Iberian Peninsula?

Archaeologists from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona discover evidence of modern human presence between 34,000 and 32,000 years ago at Cova Gran site. The study reveals distinct tool-making techniques and materials used by different species, strengthening the hypothesis of no overlap or interaction.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMar 15, 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.

Fruit flies and test tubes open new window on Alzheimer's disease

A team of scientists discovered a molecule that can prevent a toxic protein involved in Alzheimer's disease from building up in the brain. Using fruit flies engineered to develop a fly equivalent of Alzheimer's disease, they showed that the same molecule effectively cures the insects of the disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 15, 2010

Expert: Bracket seedings irrelevant after Sweet Sixteen round

After the Sweet Sixteen round, a team's seeding becomes statistically insignificant in predicting its chances of winning. Teams that make it past this point can be predicted based on other factors such as player match-ups and style of play.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Journal of Gambling Business and Economics·DateMar 15, 2010

Why do sexually experienced girls resume sexual activity after abstinence?

A study found that sexually experienced girls resume sexual activity after periods of abstinence, with short-term factors including good relationships, personal interest, and mood influencing the decision. Long-term predictors include relationship quality and personal interest.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalPerspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health·DateMar 15, 2010

A new system makes household communication networks more versatile

Researchers propose a new architecture for Residential Gateways to improve household communication networks, enabling seamless integration of multiple devices and services. The proposed solution aims to enhance service quality, security, and user experience, making it accessible to households worldwide.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalComputer Networks·DateMar 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.

Parents may not understand or recall risks associated with children's surgery

A study found that parents of children who underwent tonsillectomy or ear tube placement recalled an average of 57% of surgical risks immediately after counseling and 57% after surgery. Despite detailed data sheets and counseling, no parent was able to recall all nine intended surgical risks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateMar 15, 2010

3-D cell culture: Making cells feel right at home

A new 3-D cell culture technique using magnetic forces has been developed, allowing for the growth of cells in 3-D. This method promises to provide more accurate preclinical drug tests and better cancer research outcomes by mimicking the body's natural tissue structures.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 15, 2010

How plants put down roots

Scientists have discovered how plants form their first roots by identifying key genes and hormones involved in the process. The discovery of transcription factor MONOPTEROS and its role in activating genes TMO5 and TMO7 could lead to breeding plants with improved root systems.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 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.

Study: Grass, fungus combination affects ecology

A six-year study by ecologists at Rice University and Indiana University found that a symbiotic fungus living inside fescue can have far-reaching effects on plant, animal, and insect communities. The research suggests that cooperative microorganisms play a significant role in ecological diversity.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 15, 2010

A better genetic test for autism

A large study finds that chromosomal microarray analysis has about three times the detection rate for genetic changes related to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) than standard tests. The test detects tiny sub-microscopic deletions or duplications of DNA sequences, offering greater resolution than standard karyotyping.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 15, 2010

Molecular study could push back angiosperm origins

A new analysis of the plant family tree suggests that flowering plants may be considerably older than previously thought, with origins dating back to 215 million years ago. This finding fuels ongoing debates over different approaches to dating the tree of life and contradicts previous fossil record estimates.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2010

Simple, low-cost steps enhance adolescents' health

Researchers found that wearing a pedometer to inspire walking and spending minutes a day meditating can lower important numbers like blood pressure, heart rate, and even weight. A positive attitude and family environment increases the effectiveness of these interventions.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMar 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.

Private drinking water supplies pose challenges to public health

A Canadian Medical Association Journal study reveals that private drinking water supplies are often contaminated, with outbreaks occurring at a rate 35 times higher than in public systems. The government must provide better resources and education to ensure safe drinking water for Canadians.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 15, 2010

Southern Ocean winds open window to the deep sea

Researchers found that changes in wind patterns drive variations in the depth of the surface layer of seawater, affecting air-sea exchange and carbon storage. This impacts biological productivity by altering nutrient availability for phytoplankton growth.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 15, 2010

Hybrid revascularization effective for left main coronary blockages

Emory physicians report successful outcomes from 21 patients with left main coronary artery blockages treated using hybrid revascularization. The procedure combines coronary artery bypass surgery and PCI, resulting in no major adverse events. A large-scale clinical trial is planned to assess intermediate and long-term outcomes.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateMar 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.

3-D cell culture: Making cells feel right at home

Researchers have developed a new method for growing 3-D cell cultures using magnetic levitation, which more closely resembles the body's natural tissue structure. The technique has shown promising results in preclinical drug tests and may revolutionize cancer research.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 15, 2010

Autism Consortium study in Pediatrics shows CMA finds more genetic abnormalities than current tests

The Autism Consortium study reveals that chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) has the highest detection rate among clinically available genetic tests for autism spectrum disorders. CMA identified 18.2% of patients with deletions or duplications, compared to 2.23% and 0.46% for standard testing methods. The study recommends CMA as part...

SourceAutism Consortium·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 15, 2010

Synergy between 2 types of de-worming drugs found promising in a lab test

A new combination drug treatment has been found to be effective in controlling parasitic worms, reducing the need for repeated treatments and minimizing drug resistance. The dual therapy uses a protein crystal made by bacteria, which works by a different mechanism than existing levamisole-like drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 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.

Oscillations at odds in the heart

Researchers found glycolytic oscillations increase damage to heart during anoxia and ischemia. The study used a technique to image heart muscle cells with fluorescent dyes during severe anoxia.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateMar 15, 2010

Trauma of war doubles asthma risk among civilians

Research suggests that trauma from war increases asthma risk, with twice the likelihood of development in those most traumatised. A study of 2000 Kuwaiti civilians aged 50-69 found a direct correlation between trauma and asthma risk.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMar 15, 2010

Late-stage melanoma results in economic burden

Researchers found that late-stage melanoma treatment for people over 65 years old results in substantial economic burdens, with average monthly charges ranging from $902 to $3,933. Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce these costs by up to 40-65%.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateMar 15, 2010

New lunar images and data available to the public

NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has released seven instruments' data sets to the Planetary Data System, providing low-level data for research flexibility. The mission will deliver a comprehensive map of the lunar surface and search for resources in its one-year exploration phase.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 15, 2010
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.

How muscle cells control fatty acid uptake

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet identified the role of VEGF-B protein in regulating fatty acid transport proteins in blood vessel walls, leading to increased fat intake and potential new treatments for metabolic diseases. The study found that blocking VEGF-B signalling may reduce insulin resistance and blood glucose levels.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2010

Study points to potential new drug for type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that an experimental oral drug lowered blood sugar levels and reduced inflammatory proteins in diabetic mice. The study suggests that targeting the MIF protein could be a viable therapeutic approach to treating Type 2 diabetes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 15, 2010

Research identifies potential new use for cancer treatment

Anti-angiogenic drugs used to treat cancer may improve immune responses in tissues affected by chronic infection or inflammation, increasing effectiveness of conventional treatments for leishmaniasis and other globally important diseases.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 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.

Insurance status of gunshot trauma patients affects mortality outcomes

A study published in the Journal of American College of Surgeons found that uninsured gunshot trauma patients had a higher mortality rate than insured patients. After adjusting for demographics and injury severity, the odds of dying from a gunshot trauma were 2.2 times greater for uninsured patients. This disparity underscores the need...

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 15, 2010

Robot teaches stroke survivors

Researchers developed a 'Braccio di Ferro' robot to assist patients in learning arm movements again. The interactive robot helps patients perform correct movements, promoting motor system learning and improving movement ability.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation·DateMar 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.

Researchers uncover new data about Arl13b function in Joubert syndrome

Researchers have gained new understanding of Arl13b's function in Joubert syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by developmental delay and low muscle tone. The study reveals that Arl13b regulates ciliary transmembrane protein localization and transport to the tip of the cilium.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 15, 2010

Dying cancer patient visits to emergency departments can be avoided

A study found that nearly half of dying cancer patients visit the emergency department in the last two weeks of life, often due to uncontrolled symptoms. Effective palliative care can help manage these symptoms and reduce visits to the emergency department.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 15, 2010

Keeping up with the neighbors speeds vaccine use

Researchers analyzed data from 147 countries from 1990-2007 and found that receipt of GAVI support accelerated Hib vaccine adoption by 63%, while neighboring countries' use accelerated it by 50%. High vaccine prices hindered adoption, with lack of stable financing policies having a more detrimental effect.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 15, 2010

Measuring protein movements with nanosecond resolution

Scientists at TUM developed a novel method to observe local movements in proteins on a time scale of nanoseconds to microseconds. They found two structures of the villin protein that were previously undistinguishable from one another, with different dynamic properties.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 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.

Amniotic fluid cells more efficiently reprogrammed to pluripotency than adult cells

A recent study by Mount Sinai researchers demonstrates that skin cells found in human amniotic fluid can be efficiently 'reprogrammed' to pluripotency, a characteristic similar to human embryonic stem cells. This breakthrough has significant implications for stem cell research and patient care.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCloning and Stem Cells·DateMar 15, 2010

Study: Today's youth aren't ego-driven slackers after all

A study analyzing nearly half a million high school seniors over three decades challenges the notion that today's youth are selfish and egotistical. The research, co-authored by Michigan State University psychologist Brent Donnellan, finds that teens today share similar levels of happiness and satisfaction with previous generations.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateMar 15, 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.

Baby's obesity risk: What's the mother's influence?

Research suggests that maternal signals associated with overweight mothers can permanently alter a child's ability to regulate their weight. Studies found that offspring of overweight dams gained more weight and fat mass when given unlimited high-fat rations, indicating increased susceptibility to obesity.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateMar 15, 2010

Researchers identify a gene that may play a key role in atherosclerosis and other diseases

A study identifies HuR as a critical regulator of an inflammatory response in cells experiencing mechanical and chemical stresses, promoting the expression of genes that support atherosclerosis. Reducing HuR levels inhibits the inflammatory response and may lead to new treatments for metabolic diseases associated with inflammation.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2010