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Science News Archive May 2010


Page 2 of 26

New study maps spawning habitat of bluefin tuna in the Gulf of Mexico

A new study published in PLoS ONE has mapped the spawning habitat of bluefin tuna in the Gulf of Mexico, revealing two major hotspot regions where bycatch occurs. These findings suggest that spatial management techniques can protect western Atlantic bluefin tuna on their breeding grounds without compromising the yellowfin tuna fishery.

Student uses pedal power to create novel machine

A student at the University of Sheffield designed a mobile bicycle-powered water pump, called bicibomba movil, to improve irrigation and water distribution for rural residents in Guatemala. The machine can achieve a flow rate of 40 liters per minute on flat ground and has been produced in regular production since its creation.

DFG approves 12 new collaborative research centers

The DFG approved twelve new Collaborative Research Centres to explore various research topics including the molecular interactions of immune response in pneumonia, innovative programming techniques, and materials for bone regeneration. The new centres aim to advance our understanding of complex phenomena and develop new therapies.

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.

MSU team studies connection between statins, tendon ruptures

A pilot study found increased tendon ruptures in women taking statins, prompting a larger study to confirm the findings. The MSU team will analyze over 100,000 participants to assess the effects of statin dose, duration, and type on tendon rupture risk.

Drum rhythm on song for World Cup success

A Durham University researcher has developed a new notation system for African drums, allowing people to learn and perform unique rhythms worldwide. The system is used in a song called 'Vuma! Unity, harmony, goal!' promoting rhythm and unity for World Cup success.

UBC researcher decodes Rembrandt's 'magic'

A UBC researcher has discovered what makes Rembrandt's portraits so captivating by recreating four of the artist's most famous works using computer-rendering programs. The study found that viewers fixated on specific areas of the face, such as the eyes, and preferred portraits with 'eye guiding narrative' techniques.

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.

Many with HIV start care too late

A study of nearly 45,000 patients found that many with HIV in the US and Canada do not receive care early enough, resulting in lower CD4 cell counts. This delay increases the risk of clinical disease progression and ongoing transmission.

The deep voice of alpha male

A new study published in Springer's journal Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology found that men perceive vocal masculinity as a strong indicator of dominance, but it does not influence their attentiveness to rivals' voices. The researchers also discovered that testosterone levels are linked to dominance ratings.

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.

A Dicty mystery solved

Rice researchers found that starving cells in slime mold have an advantage, pushing those that eat into selfless sacrifice. The study reveals a surprising strategy for survival and reproduction in single-cell organisms.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Henry Ford Hospital study: Fewer infections with new heart-pump implant

A study at Henry Ford Hospital found that the newer left ventricular assist device HeartMate II has a significantly lower risk of infection than its predecessor, the HeartMate I XVE. The new device is smaller and uses synthetic ruby bearings lubricated by blood itself, reducing the risk of infection by 75%.

NIST scientists gain new 'core' understanding of nanoparticles

Researchers at NIST used neutron beams to study magnetite nanoparticles, revealing a complex interaction between the inner 'core' and outer 'shell'. The discovery could lead to new tools for controlling particle behavior in data storage and biological applications.

Pitt researchers discover gene mutation linked to lymphatic dysfunction

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a genetic mutation linked to lymphatic dysfunction, which could lead to a first-ever target for drug therapy for lymphedema. The study identified mutations in the GJC2 gene that impair cell signaling, leading to fluid accumulation and tissue swelling.

U of M study definitively links indoor tanning to melanoma

A nearly 2,300-person study by the University of Minnesota definitively links indoor tanning to increased risk of melanoma, with frequent users facing a 74% higher likelihood. The study found that risk is associated more with how much a person tans and not the age or device type.

Nobel winner ties mental illness to immune defect

Researchers have discovered a direct relationship between a psychiatric disorder and the immune system, specifically microglia cells derived from bone marrow. Bone marrow transplants cured mutant mice with compulsive hair-pulling behavior, suggesting potential new treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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.

Will we succeed? The science of self-motivation

A study by University of Illinois professors found that those who ask themselves whether they will complete a task tend to do better than those who tell themselves they will. This phenomenon has implications for cognitive, social, and clinical psychology, as well as education and work settings.

Flu doesn't die out, it hides out

A genetic analysis reveals that flu strains in the US don't disappear at the end of winter, but instead migrate to South America and other parts of the world. This knowledge has implications for public health efforts, including antiviral use and vaccination programs.

Scientists offer solutions to arsenic groundwater poisoning in southern Asia

Groundwater experts propose using deeper aquifers for irrigation, pumping high volumes of water from wells can pull down arsenic-contaminated water. Scientists recommend retesting existing deep wells on a regular basis to ensure quality. Filtration and alternative methods are used in countries without deep aquifers.

Solar panels can attract breeding water insects

Researchers at Michigan State University discovered that shiny black solar cells lure water insects away from critical breeding areas. Applying white grids or other methods can break up polarized reflection of light, making it less attractive to mayflies and other aquatic insects.

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.

Snails on methamphetamine

Researchers discovered that methamphetamine enhances memory in pond snails, allowing them to recall learned behaviors despite being immersed in de-oxygenated water. This finding may provide insights into the mechanisms of human addiction and how memories are formed.

Bursting 'bubbles' the origin of galactic gas clouds

A team of researchers has made the first detailed observations of 'halo' gas clouds in our Galaxy, finding they contain hydrogen gas 700 times the mass of the Sun. These clouds are linked to earlier star formation and can fall back into the main body of the Galaxy, recycling material.

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.

Henry Gabelnick receives lifetime achievement award

Dr. Henry Gabelnick was awarded the lifetime achievement award at the 6th International Microbicides Conference for his dedication to developing microbicides. He has contributed significantly to the field through research on preclinical algorithms and primate models.

Optical Legos: Building nanoshell structures

Researchers have developed a way to use Rice University's light-activated nanoshells as building blocks for complex structures that can trap, store and bend light. These materials have unique optical properties, making them suitable for applications such as ultrasensitive biological and chemical sensors.

Alcohol-related death rates much higher in deprived areas of England and Wales

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have found that mortality rates from alcohol-related diseases are over four times higher in deprived areas compared to less deprived areas. Deaths from such diseases are increasing despite public awareness campaigns, highlighting the need for targeted policies to reduce harm caused by alcohol.

NASA eyes low in eastern Pacific for tropical development

A low-pressure area, System 90E, is developing in the Eastern Pacific with strong thunderstorms and cold cloud tops, indicating a potential tropical cyclone. The system is expected to continue consolidating over the next 24-36 hours with a good chance of development within the next 24 hours.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rosewood trees face extinction amid Madagascar's chaos

Seventy percent of Madagascar's species live in the forests where critically endangered rosewood trees are found. The Malagasy government lacks effective enforcement, allowing for lucrative illegal logging and tree trade with China.

Henry Ford Hospital: New left-side heart pump improves right-side heart function

Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found that a continuous flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) improves function on the right side of the heart, reducing central venous pressure and pulmonary artery pressures. The study, which monitored 41 patients, also showed significant improvements in measures related to tricuspid regurgitat...

NC State to develop next generation HazMat boots

Researchers at NC State are creating a comfortable and functional leather HazMat boot that meets both criteria. The new boots use special materials that repel toxic chemicals, making them easy to clean and decontaminate.

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.

Electric ash found in Eyjafjallajokull's plume, say UK researchers

UK researchers have discovered electrically charged ash in the plume of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano. The finding contradicts models and adds a new dimension to understanding volcanic plumes' impact on air travel. Detailed measurements reveal self-renewing charge within the plume, which affects particle behavior and growth.

Cardiac biomarker indicates fluid overload in dialysis patients

A recent study suggests that N-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) is not a reliable biomarker for cardiac dysfunction in dialysis patients. Instead, high NT-pro-BNP levels are more closely associated with fluid overload and require adjustment of dry weight to prevent complications.

UCSF analyses detail tobacco industry influence on health policy

Two new UCSF studies detail the wide reach of the tobacco industry and its influence on young people, military veterans, and national healthcare reform. The analyses reveal industry 'youth smoking prevention' tactics and efforts to defeat healthcare reform under President Clinton.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

To double spud production, just add a little spit

Scientists at Cornell University found that compounds in Guatemalan potato moth larvae saliva increase photosynthesis and starch production in commercial potato plants, resulting in bigger tubers. Yield increases were observed when 10-50% of potatoes were infested, with marketable yields doubling or tripling.

The great pond experiment

A seven-year experiment shows that pond communities bear a lasting imprint of random events in their past. The study reveals that low-productivity ponds are predictable, while high-productivity ponds exhibit more stochastic behavior, where history matters more.

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.

Farmers' beliefs on a higher plain

A new study reveals that abandoning traditional beliefs in local Islamic Saints is linked to agricultural expansion and the introduction of new sheep breeds, affecting agro-pastoral resource management. The research highlights the importance of individual religious beliefs in shaping environmental practices.

Out of the woods for 'Ardi'

Scientists argue that Ardipithecus ramidus, a human ancestor, lived in tree or bush savannas with 5-25% tree cover, not dense woodlands. The claim challenges the savanna hypothesis, which suggests that the expansion of savannas prompted the evolution of bipedalism.

Ultrasound could boost tissue implant success

Researchers discovered that low-intensity ultrasound therapy can improve the survival and function of tissue grafts after surgery. The treatment increased cellular activity, reduced waste buildup, and enhanced molecular motion, leading to better outcomes for patients undergoing various surgical procedures.

NDE methods for evaluating ancient coins could be worth their weight in gold

Researchers used nondestructive evaluation techniques to analyze ancient coins minted by King Agrippa I and II. The study revealed that the copper used in the coins likely came from mines previously thought not to have been opened until a century later, suggesting a closer relationship between the Romans and the region.

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.

Antiviral therapy during compensated cirrhosis most cost-effective approach

Researchers at UCLA Medical Center found antiviral therapy during compensated cirrhosis to be the most cost-effective approach for treating HCV patients with advanced liver disease. Treatment initiated before progression to more advanced liver disease resulted in improved survival and decreased costs compared to other strategies.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Applied physicists create building blocks for a new class of optical circuits

Researchers develop scalable devices exhibiting customizable optical properties using a bottom-up approach inspired by nature. The findings showcase potential applications in sensitive sensors, detectors, and invisibility cloaks, and demonstrate the possibility of manipulating artificial molecules to create desired optical properties.