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Science News Archive 2011 - Page 185


Page 185 of 311

Quantum knowledge cools computers

Researchers have discovered that quantum entanglement can create a cooling effect when deleting data, which could be used to mitigate heat generation in supercomputers. By understanding the connection between information theory and thermodynamics, they found that entropy is a lack of knowledge that can be exploited for cooling purposes.

SourceETH Zurich/Swiss Federal Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 1, 2011
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.

Randomness rules in turbulent flows

A Johns Hopkins University study reveals that two identical beads dropped into a turbulent flow will follow different and random paths. The phenomenon, called 'spontaneous stochasticity,' suggests that even everyday particles can behave randomly in chaotic flows.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPhysical Review E·DateJun 1, 2011

Ancient hominid males stayed home while females roamed, says CU-Boulder study

A new study led by the University of Colorado Boulder found that female hominids preferred to move away from their residential groups, suggesting a dispersal pattern similar to modern humans and some primates. The team used high-tech analysis of strontium isotope ratios in tooth enamel to identify specific areas of landscape use.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·DateJun 1, 2011

USC study locates the source of key brain function

A USC study has identified the brain region responsible for rapid scene comprehension, which enables humans to quickly grasp unfamiliar scenes. The lateral occipital cortex is found to play a key role in this process, with no significant contribution from the intraparietal sulcus.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateJun 1, 2011
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.

A pill to prevent migraine?

A gene discovery for migraine may lead to the development of a preventive pill that blocks the brain's pain channel. The discovery is significant as it opens understanding of the pain pathways that trigger migraine pain, sparking excitement among researchers and the pharmaceutical industry.

SourceMBooth & Associates·DateJun 1, 2011

Viewers look to TV characters to advise how to talk about sexual health

Researchers found that college students were more likely to talk about sexual health issues with their partners after watching a Sex and the City episode featuring Samantha and Miranda. The study showed that viewers modeled their behavior after the TV characters, having these conversations in their own lives. Almost half of participant...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Communication·DateJun 1, 2011

Predictive model offers accurate remote mapping of plant communities

A PhD student at the University of Leeds has developed a predictive model that accurately maps plant communities over large areas using aerial photographs and data from maps. The method achieved an accuracy of up to 92%, comparable to traditional on-site surveys conducted by trained ecologists.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJun 1, 2011
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.

Study finds greenhouse gas reduction strategy may be safe for soil animals

A Baylor University geology researcher and scientists from Rice University tested a new soil additive called biochar on common earthworms. They found that wetting the biochar before applying it to the soil reduces harm to earthworms, allowing them to perform essential functions in the soil ecosystem.

SourceBaylor University·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateJun 1, 2011

Reducing revolving door hospital re-admissions

Researchers found that nurse-led transitional care programs can improve health outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions for chronically ill patients. Successful programs rely on nurses, often master's prepared, to prevent medical errors and ensure continuity of care.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 1, 2011

Unprotected sex more likely in serious gay relationships

New Northwestern University research finds that gay young men in serious relationships are six times more likely to engage in unprotected sex than their casual counterparts. The study highlights the need for targeted HIV prevention efforts towards this population, who account for nearly 70% of all new diagnoses.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJun 1, 2011

ASGE and SHEA issue updated multisociety guideline on reprocessing flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) have updated their 2003 joint guideline to ensure safe reprocessing of flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes. The guidelines emphasize the importance of high-level disinfection and standardized cleaning procedures.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 1, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

1 world, 1 sound

Linguist Mihailo Antovic's study reveals that children from diverse ethnic backgrounds can comprehend musical tones in a similar way. He hopes to prove this phenomenon is not unique to Serbia but rather a global understanding of music.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalMetaphor and Symbol·DateJun 1, 2011

Radiology benefit managers adversely affect referring physicians, study suggests

A study suggests that radiology benefit managers can have a negative impact on referring physicians, shifting significant costs to them. The study found that while RBMs aim to lower healthcare costs, they often result in cost savings being offset by increased fees for physicians and staff.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateJun 1, 2011
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 Wars camouflage technique could have benefits in modern warfare

Dazzle camouflage, a World War I technique, can affect perception of speed when objects move quickly, potentially reducing losses from attacks on fast-moving vehicles. This effect is due to high contrast geometric patterns, which were found to cause a significant reduction in perceived speed by around 7 percent.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 1, 2011

Bacterial protein caught in the act of secreting sticky appendages

Scientists have discovered how bacteria produce and secrete pili, which help them attach to human cells and cause infection. The research provides new insights into the mechanism of pilus formation and suggests potential targets for antibacterial drugs.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJun 1, 2011

Retina holds the key to better vision in deaf people

Researchers at the University of Sheffield found that deaf people's retinas develop differently to capture more peripheral visual information, enabling them to see further into the periphery. This challenge previous thinking on how visual processing works and has implications for improving visual care for deaf people.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 1, 2011

Livestock risks from Wisconsin wolves localized, predictable

A research team has created a risk map to predict wolf attacks on Wisconsin livestock, identifying three variables that distinguish high-risk areas from low-risk ones. The study suggests that targeting prevention efforts on high-risk hotspots can help reduce conflicts between humans and wolves.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalBioScience·DateJun 1, 2011
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.

Patients with bowel disease eager to test 'fecal' therapy

The majority of potential patients are eager for fecal microbiota transplantation to become available, despite concerns about donor selection and screening. Patients view the treatment as 'natural' and easier than currently available therapies.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalInflammatory Bowel Diseases·DateJun 1, 2011

Researchers develop strategy to improve patient adherence

The Information-Motivation-Strategy (IMS) Model identifies three categories to guide clinicians in helping patients follow prescribed treatments. The model highlights the need for effective communication, motivation, and overcoming practical barriers. By implementing this strategy, physicians can improve patient adherence and achieve h...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalHealth Psychology Review·DateJun 1, 2011
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.

New technology could inspire brain implant for detecting and treating seizures

Researchers have developed a novel technology to precisely modulate individual neurons, allowing for unprecedented insight into cellular mechanisms of neuronal networks. The technology enables real-time monitoring of brain activity, detection or prediction of seizure onset, and simultaneous treatment with anti-convulsive drugs.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateJun 1, 2011

Reducing a severe side effect of a common anticancer drug

Researchers at Georgia Health Sciences University have identified PKC-delta as a critical regulator of cisplatin-mediated kidney toxicity. Inhibiting this protein not only protected the kidneys but also enhanced the antitumor effects of cisplatin in mouse tumor models.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 1, 2011
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.

Does baseline concussion testing really reduce risks to athletes?

A study by Loyola researcher Christopher Randolph found that baseline concussion tests may have a high 'false negative' rate, returning injured athletes to play prematurely. This could lead to increased risks of further injury or cognitive impairments.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalCurrent Sports Medicine Reports·DateJun 1, 2011

Cancer drug holds promise as first treatment for common, inherited dementia

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that the cancer drug SAHA increases cell-signalling protein progranulin levels in cultured mouse cells and restores near-normal production in human subjects with FTD. The study suggests SAHA may be a promising first-generation treatment for familial frontotemporal dementia.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 1, 2011
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.

Early hominin landscape use

Researchers found that females preferred to disperse from their natal groups, similar to chimpanzees and human groups. The study suggests early hominins' social structure was not like that of gorillas.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateJun 1, 2011

3-D model mimics volcanic explosions

Researchers created a 3D model of Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption to better understand pyroclastic density currents and their impact on terrain. The model accurately reproduced the blast's effects, revealing that gravity and terrain shape play key roles in determining damage zones.

SourcePenn State·JournalGeology·DateJun 1, 2011

Saliva is effective in screening for CMV infection in newborns, says NIH-funded research

A new screening method using newborn saliva has been shown to effectively identify CMV infection in newborns. The test achieved a sensitivity of 97.4% when dry samples were used, making it a promising tool for widespread screening programs. Researchers are now exploring the contribution of congenital CMV infection to overall hearing loss.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 1, 2011

Keeping warm: Coordinated movements in a penguin huddle

Emperor penguins form coordinated waves to continuously change the huddle structure, allowing animals from outside to enter and warm up. The study's findings have been published in PLOS ONE, providing new insights into the survival techniques of Emperor penguins.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 1, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Childhood abuse and migraine

A notable prevalence of childhood abuse in migraine patients has been observed, with experts suggesting that early abuse may create permanent changes in the neurobiological system. Researchers are exploring the idea that treatment with serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors may reverse some of these effects and decrease migraine pain.

SourceMBooth & Associates·DateJun 1, 2011

Key goals for building on 30 years of HIV/AIDS research

Researchers aim to efficiently identify more HIV-infected people through expanded voluntary testing programs. They also seek innovative approaches to curing HIV/AIDS by eradicating or suppressing the virus in infected individuals.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 31, 2011
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.

ASPB awards 15 summer undergraduate research fellowships

The American Society of Plant Biologists has awarded 15 summer undergraduate research fellowships to outstanding students for meaningful plant biology research early in their college careers. The fellowships support each student's presentation of a poster at the annual meeting, promoting undergraduate research in plant science.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·DateMay 31, 2011

Steady relationships reduce amphetamine's rewarding effects

Researchers discovered that male voles in established relationships displayed less interest in amphetamine compared to single counterparts. The study found changes in the brain's reward system depending on relationship status, with paired voles showing reduced D1 receptor binding and increased dopamine release.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMay 31, 2011

UK advice on sun creams 'not in the interests of public health,' warns DTB

The Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin warns that current UK sun cream advice is too low on protection and impractical to follow. The organization recommends rethinking the current SPF of 15 and suggests a more balanced approach with products labeled as 'factor 30' for broad-spectrum ultraviolet screening effect.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalDrug and Therapeutics Bulletin·DateMay 31, 2011

2 NASA satellites see Typhoon Songda weaken and move past Japan

Typhoon Songda weakened to a depression with maximum sustained winds near 30 knots (34 mph/55 kmh) as it moved northeast at 26 knots (30 mph/48 kmh). The NASA satellites provided crucial forecast insights into the storm's behavior, capturing its rainfall totals and wave heights.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 31, 2011
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.

Good guy or bad guy? Diagnosing stomach disease in pet reptiles

A DNA-based test can identify whether a cryptosporidium is of mammalian or snake origin, with prevalence figures revealing widespread infection in popular pets like corn snakes and leopard geckos. Reptile owners must be aware of the risk of cross-species infection and the importance of regular testing to prevent the spread of disease.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalJournal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation·DateMay 31, 2011

Noise research to combat 'wind turbine syndrome'

Acoustics researchers at the University of Adelaide are developing a computer model to predict wind farm noise output, aiming to reduce 'wind turbine syndrome'. The team hopes to control noise through blade shape changes and active devices, improving wind energy efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateMay 31, 2011

Ocean acidification leaves clownfish deaf to predators

A new study reveals ocean acidification compromises fish hearing, leaving clownfish deaf to predators. Researchers reared larvae in different CO2 environments, showing that increased acidity impacts sensory systems, including those inside the fish's body.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 31, 2011
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.

Scientists crack the spiders' web code

Researchers observed that spiders increase decorating activity in response to severe web damage but not light damage, suggesting the purpose of silk decorations is to make webs more visible to predators. This study helps unravel the mystery of why orb-weaving spiders decorate their webs.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMay 31, 2011