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Science News Archive March 2010 - Page 19


Page 19 of 27

The alpine marmot spreads into the Catalan Pyrenees

The alpine marmot's expansion into the Catalan Pyrenees is a result of its adaptability to warmer temperatures. The species can occupy abandoned fields at lower altitudes, influencing local biodiversity and potentially threatening native species such as ptarmigan.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEthology Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 9, 2010

From the desk lamp to the desktop?

Researchers from Germany have developed a way to encode wireless broadband signals using desk lamps, exploiting synergy between illumination and information. The system uses visible-frequency wireless with all the bandwidth one could want, achieving record speeds of up to 230 Mbit/s with commercial LEDs.

SourceOptica·DateMar 9, 2010

Vilcek prizes in biomedical science awarded

Dr. Alexander Varshavsky, a pioneer in ubiquitin research, receives the Vilcek Prize in Biomedical Science for elucidating the process of regulated protein degradation. Dr. Harmit Malik, a young researcher, wins the Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise for his innovative approach to genetic conflict and its implications for human diseases.

SourceVilcek Foundation·DateMar 9, 2010

Model may offer better understanding of embryonic development

A mathematical model predicts complex signaling patterns in fruit fly embryos, shedding light on stem cell differentiation and potential applications in tissue engineering. The study aims to better understand how to control similar cells in a laboratory setting.

SourcePurdue University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 9, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Springer enters into partnership with the Korean Society of Nuclear Medicine

Springer has partnered with the Korean Society of Nuclear Medicine (KSNM) to publish the journal Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. The journal will be available in both print and electronic formats, providing a platform for high-quality research and discussion on nuclear medicine and related sciences.

SourceSpringer·JournalNuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateMar 9, 2010

Designer nano luggage to carry drugs to diseased cells

Scientists have successfully grown and loaded empty nano containers with useful chemicals from a plant virus, opening up new areas of research in targeted drug delivery. The technology has potential applications in cancer treatment, delivering drugs directly to diseased cells while sparing healthy ones.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalSmall·DateMar 9, 2010

Study: Federal funds support health depts., but leadership is key

A study by Purdue University found that while federal funding for health departments has surged, its impact on local resources is limited. Leadership and director qualifications play a crucial role in supporting programs and activities.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management·DateMar 9, 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.

Papaya extract thwarts growth of cancer cells in lab tests

Researchers at the University of Florida have found that papaya extract thwarts the growth of cancer cells in lab tests, boosting the production of key signaling molecules and suggesting possible therapeutic strategies. The extract did not show toxic effects on normal cells, consistent with reports from indigenous populations.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Ethnopharmacology·DateMar 9, 2010

Divine intervention? New research looks at beliefs about God's influence in everyday life

A new study from the University of Toronto found that most Americans believe God is directly involved in their personal affairs, with 82% relying on God for help and guidance. Higher education and income levels are associated with lower beliefs in divine intervention, but surprisingly, more religiously active individuals in these group...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSociology of Religion·DateMar 9, 2010

Sources of pollution in waterways

A recent study found that stormwater runoff is the primary source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) pollutants in the New York/New Jersey Harbor. The study estimated that stormwater runoff contributes about half of the total PAH load to the harbor. The researchers also identified gaps in data, particularly for stormwater runoff ...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateMar 9, 2010

Decoding the long calls of the orangutan

Researchers decoded Orangutan long calls, discovering they convey individual identity and context. Females can distinguish between spontaneous and aroused calls, reacting differently to each. Long calls may serve to repel rivals or predators, a key finding that sheds light on Orangutan communication.

SourceWiley·JournalEthology·DateMar 9, 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.

Life is shorter for men, but sexually active life expectancy is longer

A study published by University of Chicago researchers found that men can expect another 15 years of sexual activity at age 55, while women expect less than 11 years. The study also introduced a new health measure, 'sexually active life expectancy,' which was lower for both men and women.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·DateMar 9, 2010

Skin transplant offers new hope to vitiligo patients

Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital conducted a study showing that skin transplant surgery is safe and effective in treating vitiligo. The treated area regained an average of 52% of its natural skin color, with some patients experiencing up to 74% regrowth.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateMar 9, 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.

NYU Courant professor wins NSF's Waterman Award

Subhash Khot, a NYU Courant professor, has received the NSF's Waterman Award for his work on computational complexity and its significance in computer security. He is recognized for his groundbreaking research on the Unique Games Problem, which sheds light on computationally intractable problems with far-reaching consequences.

SourceNew York University·DateMar 9, 2010

Physician calls for more rigorous standards for drugs up for FDA approval

A hospitalist at the University of Rochester Medical Center, Dr. Alec B. O'Connor, is calling for more rigorous standards for drugs up for FDA approval. He argues that current guidelines do not require studies comparing a new drug's effectiveness and safety to an established first-line drug.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateMar 9, 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.

Intentional variation increases result validity in mouse testing

A study published in Nature Methods found that introducing as few as two controlled environmental variables to preclinical mice tests can significantly reduce costly false positives and the number of animals needed for testing. This approach challenges traditional standardization efforts in animal testing.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 9, 2010

Reovirus may be a novel approach to prostate cancer treatment

Researchers have detected a novel oncolytic viral therapy against prostate cancer using the reovirus, showing safety and efficacy in early-stage patients. The study found that the virus induced cancer cell death without replicating in normal tissues, with minimal toxicity reported.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 9, 2010

Genetic variant greatly increases lung cancer risk for light smokers

A genetic variant identified by researchers at the University of Cincinnati significantly increases lung cancer risk for individuals who smoke lightly, even if they are not heavy smokers. Family members with this genetic variant should be monitored for early detection, regardless of their smoking habits.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 9, 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.

Smelling the scenery in stereo

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology discovered that desert ants can locate odour sources in a map-like manner and use this information for navigation. The ants need both antennae to smell the scenery in stereo, enabling precise location of their nests after foraging for food.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMar 9, 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.

Starting treatment early doubles chance of success for people with diabetes

A recent study published in Diabetes Care found that starting metformin treatment within three months of diabetes diagnosis significantly increases its effectiveness. This is the first real-world comparison of metformin failure rates and has important implications for newly diagnosed patients worldwide.

SourceGolinHarris International·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMar 9, 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.

Surprising findings about hepatitis C and insulin resistance

Researchers have discovered that hepatitis C causes high insulin resistance primarily in muscles, not livers. This finding may lead to better management and prevention of diabetes among those with Hepatitis C, particularly for those at genetic risk.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMar 9, 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.

After a fight with a partner, brain activity predicts emotional resiliency

A study from Harvard University suggests that brain activity in the lateral prefrontal cortex is a better indicator of how someone will feel in the days following a fight with their partner. Individuals who show more neural activity in this region are less likely to be upset and may display improved day-to-day mood.

SourceHarvard University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 9, 2010

HHMI's Gilliam Fellowships aim to increase diversity in the sciences

The HHMI's Gilliam Fellowships program aims to increase diversity in the sciences by supporting students from underrepresented groups. The five new fellows will receive $44,000 in graduate school support annually for up to five years, with a focus on promoting research and teaching careers.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·DateMar 9, 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.

Tropical cyclone formation likely near Madagascar

Forecasters believe a low-pressure area off Madagascar's east coast has conditions ripe for development into a tropical storm. The system is being monitored due to its warm waters and improved banding of thunderstorms.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 9, 2010

Iowa Congressman Tom Latham receives Champion of Agronomy Award

Congressman Tom Latham received the 2010 Champion of Agronomy Award from the American Society of Agronomy for his strong support of agriculture and conservation. The award recognizes his commitment to advancing agricultural research and development, essential for America's farmers and ranchers.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateMar 9, 2010

Grandfathered drug for high potassium has no proven benefit

A review by the American Society of Nephrology suggests that ion exchange resins used to treat hyperkalemia may not be effective and could be harmful. The authors recommend further studies on these products and urge doctors to explore alternative treatments first.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 9, 2010
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Infectious virus hidden in chromosomes during latency can be passed from parents to children

A team of researchers at the University of South Florida discovered that a common herpesvirus can integrate its DNA into human chromosomes, allowing it to be passed down through generations. This finding raises concerns about disease risk and the potential for viral reactivation in individuals born with the virus's DNA in every cell.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2010

New insight on how fast nicotine peaks in the brain

Nicotine takes much longer to reach peak brain levels in smokers, contradicting traditional puff-by-puff spikes, and may depend on overall rate of accumulation, habit, and sensory cues. Smokers who eventually experience high nicotine levels without becoming addicted still lack clear explanations for their non-addictive status.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2010

'Improved doctor-pharmacist collaboration needed': study

A Canadian study found that collaborative care between family physicians and community pharmacists improved patient outcomes, including increased medication adjustments and lifestyle changes. However, the study showed no significant impact on cholesterol control.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 8, 2010
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Farm-to-school programs motivate school food service professionals

A study of farm-to-school programs reveals that school food service professionals are motivated by factors such as student enthusiasm and price, leading to improved nutritional offerings. The programs also benefit farmers by providing a stable market for locally grown produce, helping to promote healthful eating habits among children.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 8, 2010

Musk ox population decline due to climate, not to humans, study finds

A team of scientists has discovered that the drastic decline in Arctic musk ox populations began due to a warming climate rather than human hunting. The researchers used ancient DNA to test for human impacts on musk ox populations and found that humans were not responsible for their decline.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2010

Deep sedimentation of acantharian cysts -- a reproductive strategy?

Research found that spore-like acantharian cysts rapidly sink from surface waters to the deep ocean, delivering significant amounts of organic matter to the ocean depths. This phenomenon may be part of an extraordinary reproductive strategy allowing juveniles to exploit a seasonal food bonanza.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateMar 8, 2010