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Science News Archive November 2010


Page 5 of 27

Biologists report more bad news for polar bears

Biologists report that polar bears are unsuited for alternative diets in a warmer world, where they will come into competition with grizzly bears. The study suggests that polar bears' weaker skulls make them less competitive for resources.

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.

A step-change in sustainable urban transport

Researchers at the University of Leeds and Manchester are conducting a £1.5 million project to inform sustainable urban transport planning by 2050. The STEP-CHANGE project will gather data on household travel behavior and analyze it with historical records to develop new tools for sustainability.

Hormone's crucial role in 2 anemic blood disorders

Researchers found that boosting hepcidin levels may directly affect relieving anemic patients of their body's iron overload. Two studies illustrated a potential new dietary treatment for patients with hemochromatosis by increasing hepcidin levels and reducing iron absorption from the gut.

Jellyfish-inspired pumps

Caltech researchers have designed jellyfish-inspired pumps that utilize flexible designs and adaptable tissue composition to create efficient fluid transport systems. The pumps are optimized for medical applications, such as delivering medication or removing excess fluids from the body, without causing damage to surrounding tissues.

DNA uncovers 1 of the world's rarest birds

A team of Australian researchers has identified a new, critically endangered species of ground parrot in Western Australia, using DNA from museum specimens up to 160 years old. The discovery highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect the remaining 110 birds in the wild, which are confined to a single national park.

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.

What makes flies attack?

New research reveals that pheromonal cues alone can label another fly as a competitor, leading to male aggression. Behavioral cues also play a crucial role, with males attacking both male- and female-like flies.

For your teeth, Thanksgiving dinner is a real food fight

Researchers found that compounds in cranberry disrupt enzymes used by bacteria to form plaque, reducing acid production and cavities. Additionally, polyphenols from red wine waste inhibit S. mutans' activity and reduce acid production.

Heating nanoparticles to kill tumor cells

Virginia Tech researchers have developed a promising new cancer treatment using magnetic fluid hyperthermia, which heats up magnetic nanoparticles to kill tumor cells. The treatment has shown no adverse effects on surrounding healthy tissue.

When bird meets machine, bioinspired flight

Researchers have modeled and mimicked the natural designs of falling geckoes, gliding snakes, and flying birds to improve air vehicle design. The special edition, 'Bioinspired Flight', reveals innovative approaches for controlled hovering, forward flight, and exploitation of thermal updrafts.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Expecting? Don't neglect your teeth

During pregnancy, pregnant women can experience significant changes in their oral health, including gingivitis, pregnancy tumors, and mild to severe gingival enlargement. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene can help alleviate gum inflammation and prevent worsening of conditions.

Battle of the sexes, fruit-fly style

Researchers found that fruit flies will attack females who smell and taste like males, and will court males with female-like patterns of behavior. By manipulating a gene that governs pheromonal profiles and behavioral cues, the study reveals the importance of behavioral feedback in aggression.

LIDAR applications in coastal morphology and hazard assessment

Researchers used LIDAR technology to measure changes in coastal morphology following a catastrophic series of landslides in Matata, New Zealand. The study found that debris flows sourced from the Awatarariki stream transported over 350,000 cubic meters of debris, and mapped sediment flow paths with high accuracy.

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.

Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis crucial to positive outcomes for patients

A recent study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found that early diagnosis and treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can significantly improve outcomes for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Delayed treatment was associated with increased joint destruction and lower chances of achieving DMARD-free remission.

AIAA Foundation recognizes outstanding educators

The AIAA Foundation presents Educator Achievement Awards to seven precollege educators who have demonstrated exemplary efforts in inspiring students about mathematics, science, and related technical studies. The awards recognize the impact of these educators on their students' future careers in aerospace.

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.

Cloud atlas: Texas A&M scientist maps the meaning of mid-level clouds

A Texas A&M University geoscientist is mapping the meaning of mid-level clouds using NASA satellite data. She aims to develop a common nomenclature for these understudied clouds, which play a crucial role in the climate-change equation. Her research has revolutionized atmospheric studies and will help create more accurate climate models.

Building business school success through sustainability

A new joint project between University of Nottingham and University of Bath aims to identify best practices for integrating sustainability in business school activities. The study will produce case studies guiding other schools on financial benefits and contributing to a greener future.

Shrubby crops can help fuel Africa's green revolution

A Michigan State University study suggests that rotating corn with shrubby legume mixtures, such as pigeonpea, can increase nutrient-enriched grain productivity. This approach has the potential to enhance food and environmental security in Africa by reducing reliance on starchy cereals and expensive fertilizers.

Why do people behave badly? Maybe it's just too easy

Research found that people are more likely to cheat and make immoral decisions when it requires minimal action. Participants were more willing to help others when they had to explicitly choose 'yes' or 'no', whereas passive requests led to lower rates of volunteering.

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.

World-first to provide building blocks for new nano devices

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have successfully built 3-D molecular structures on surfaces using a self-assembly process. This breakthrough could lead to the development of cutting-edge optical and electronic technologies, as well as molecular computers.

CONRAD applauds results of global iPrEx study

The Global iPrEx study found that daily use of the oral antiretroviral combination pill was 44% effective in reducing risk of HIV infection in men who have sex with men. Risk of HIV infection fell by 50.2% among participants who took the pill at least 50% of the days.

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.

Use of HIV medications reduces risk of HIV infection in uninfected people

A major study demonstrates the effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in reducing HIV infection risk in high-risk individuals. The iPrEx study found that PrEP reduced HIV infections by an average of 43.8% in participants who received the medication, with consistent use providing even greater protection.

Developing countries often outsource deforestation, study finds

A new study found that reforestation at home often leads to deforestation abroad in developing countries. International trade in forest products increased the demand for imported timber and agricultural products, contributing to net deforestation. Strengthening cooperation and certification systems can help mitigate this issue.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Methane-powered laptops may be closer than you think

Researchers at Harvard University have made significant breakthroughs in methane-fueled solid-oxide fuel cells, reducing operating temperatures and costs. The development of platinum-free micro-SOFCs could enable the use of methane as a fuel source for laptops and portable electronics.

December 2010 Geology and GSA Today highlights

Recent studies shed light on ancient C4 plants, submarine channels with helical flow reversal, and the genesis of granite. Researchers have also discovered mysterious rock layers containing petrified remains, cohabiting bacteria in ancient environments, and deep-cave stromatolites.

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.

Novel fuel cell catalyst lowers need for precious metal

Researchers have developed a novel fuel cell catalyst that uses large spheres of gold instead of platinum, reducing the need for precious metals. The catalyst retains its converting power and produces electricity at top capacity for longer periods than traditional small-particle models.

The physics of coffee rings

Researchers have devised a predictive model to control the formation of banded ring patterns left behind by coffee droplets. The model suggests that particle deposition can be controlled by altering physical parameters such as evaporation and surface tension.

Plant-derived scavengers prowl the body for nerve toxins

Researchers at Arizona State University have successfully produced plant-derived human butyrylcholinesterase, a bioscavenger that can neutralize organophosphate toxins. This breakthrough holds promise for protecting the nervous system from pesticide and nerve agent poisoning, as well as treating related diseases such as Alzheimer's.

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.

Discovery halts breast cancer stem cells

Researchers at Tufts University discovered that estrogen stimulates breast cancer stem cells through a pathway mirroring normal stem cell development. By disrupting this signaling mechanism, they were able to halt the expansion of breast cancer stem cells and prevent tumor growth.

Self-assembly of nano-rotors

Researchers have successfully self-assembled rod-shaped molecules into small rotors within a two-dimensional network, forming a hexagonal lattice. The rotors exhibit unique energy thresholds and can maintain their structure even when exposed to thermal energy, enabling potential applications in optical or electronic switching.

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.

Optimizing large wind farms

Charles Meneveau and Johan Meyers develop a model to calculate optimal turbine spacing for large wind farms. They find that energy production depends less on horizontal winds and more on entraining strong winds from higher in the atmosphere, leading to an optimal distance of about 15 rotor diameters.

21 group leaders join network of EMBO Young Investigators

The EMBO Young Investigator Programme has selected 21 talented young researchers from across Europe to join the network. These group leaders will receive financial support and benefits such as lab management training and networking events.

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.

NIH adds first images to major research database

The National Eye Institute has expanded its genetic and clinical research database by adding more than 72,000 lens and fundus photographs from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). These images are now accessible to scientists through NCBI's online database of Genotypes and Phenotypes, dbGaP.

Extending the life of oil reserves

A new additive has been developed to treat carbon dioxide, making it suitable for efficient and environmentally friendly oil extraction. The additive can also reduce environmental damage caused by industrial processes.

Sour research, sweet results

Researchers at USC College have made a groundbreaking discovery about sour flavors, revealing that protons from acids directly activate taste cells. This finding has important implications for understanding how different tastes interact and may lead to practical applications in cooking and food industry.

Virginia Tech engineers introduce thermotherapy as a chemotherapy alternative

Researchers have developed a new method to target and destroy cancerous cells using hyperthermia, which elevates the temperature of tumor cells while keeping surrounding healthy tissue at a lower degree of body heat. The technique uses ferrofluids to induce hyperthermia and has been shown to be biocompatible with iron oxide nanoparticles.

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.