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Science News Archive 2011


Page 24 of 311

Violent video games alter brain function in young men

A study found that playing violent video games for one week reduced activation in certain brain regions associated with emotional control and aggressive behavior in young adult men. After two weeks without game play, the changes were diminished.

Renowned UGA chemist Henry Schaefer honored with Humboldt Research Award

Henry F. Schaefer III, Graham Perdue professor of chemistry at UGA, has been awarded a Humboldt Research Award for his significant impact on theoretical chemistry and collaboration with European researchers. The award, valued at $80,000, enables him to undertake prolonged periods of research in Germany.

Eating fish reduces risk of Alzheimer's disease

A study found that consuming baked or broiled fish on a weekly basis preserves gray matter volume in areas at risk for Alzheimer's disease. This reduction in risk is associated with improved cognitive function, particularly working memory.

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.

UC research examines home births –- then and now

A University of Cincinnati researcher is comparing historical data on home births from the 1970s with current trends, highlighting similarities in higher education levels among women opting for home births. In contrast, physician attendance at home births has decreased significantly over time, according to the study.

Earthquakes: Water as a lubricant

Researchers found that rock water acts as a lubricant, causing significant differences in mechanical properties along the fault at depth. This supports the idea that fluids play a key role in the onset of earthquakes, and tremor signals are linked to areas with trapped fluids.

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.

Surgeons perform better with eye movement training

Research by the University of Exeter shows that trainee surgeons learn technical surgical skills more quickly and deal better with stress if taught to mimic expert eye movements. The study highlights the potential for 'gaze training' to speed up initial skill learning, getting trainees ready for the operating room earlier.

Texas drought visible in new national groundwater maps

The record-breaking Texas drought has reduced groundwater levels in much of the state to their lowest levels in over 60 years. The latest maps from NASA's Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites show severely depressed groundwater levels, indicating a prolonged drying effect.

Study shows hospice caregivers need routine care interventions

A study led by the University of Kentucky found that hospice family caregivers experience 'second-order patient' stress due to caregiving tasks and emotional impact. Researchers recommend routine care interventions to address these unique needs and improve caregiver outcomes.

From gene to function

Researchers have identified 68 genetic variants involved in platelet formation, including a novel role for tropomyosin 1 in platelet production. The study found that genes associated with heart attacks and strokes overlap with those affecting platelets, offering potential new targets for treatments.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Supercomputers take a cue from microwave ovens

Berkeley researchers are exploring a co-design approach to scientific computing, which brings together scientists and computer engineers to create purpose-built systems for specific applications. This could lead to increased code efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and faster modeling of complex problems like clouds.

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.

NASA's Swift finds a gamma-ray burst with a dual personality

Astronomers propose two exotic scenarios for the unusual cosmic explosion: a novel supernova billions of light-years away or an unusual collision within our own galaxy. The 'Christmas burst' was caused by either event, with observations suggesting a neutron star and rapid tightening of its orbit.

Collecting carbon in a concrete jungle

A new project aims to reduce carbon emissions by using microscopic tubes that can adsorb CO2 from the air, with potential applications in built-up urban areas. The technology could lead to a patentable unit being developed within five years, offering a sustainable solution for reducing carbon footprint.

Abrupt permafrost thaw increases climate threat

Permafrost thaw could release approximately the same amount of carbon as deforestation, but with a greater impact due to methane emissions. The study estimates that by 2100, carbon released from permafrost will be 1.7-5.2 times larger than previous models.

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.

Heart attack risk differs between men and women

A study using coronary CT angiography found that women are at a significantly greater risk of cardiovascular events than men when experiencing large amounts of plaque build-up or extensive artery narrowing. In contrast, men with non-calcified plaque are at higher risk for major adverse cardiac events compared to women.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists discover anti-inflammatory polyphenols in apple peels

Researchers discovered that oral ingestion of apple polyphenols can suppress T cell activation and ameliorate experimental colitis in mice. The study found that apple polyphenols protect against colitis via the suppression of T cell activation and/or recruitment.

Scripps Florida scientist awarded $3.4 million for HIV/AIDS research

A Scripps Florida scientist has received a $3.4 million grant to study a new compound that blocks HIV replication by targeting the viral protein Tat. The goal is to evaluate its therapeutic potential in animal models and optimize it for human clinical trials, potentially leading to a novel class of anti-viral drugs.

Self-referral leads to more negative exams for patients

A study found that physicians with financial interest in imaging equipment refer more patients for unnecessary MRI exams, leading to increased healthcare costs. The study revealed a higher rate of negative scans and younger patients among those referred by financially interested physicians.

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.

Geology highlights: New research posted in Nov.

Scientists have discovered tranquillityite in Australia's Eel Creek Formation, a mineral previously believed to originate on the Moon. Meanwhile, researchers in Hong Kong present the first three-dimensional seismic velocity model of the region, providing insights into crustal structures and earthquake activity.

Training peers improves social outcomes for some kids with ASD

A recent NIH-funded study found that engaging peers in social skills intervention may be more effective than training children with ASD directly. The study showed that children with ASD who interacted with trained peers had improved social outcomes, including reduced time alone on playgrounds and increased classmate friendships.

Study finds savanna chimps exhibit sharing behavior like humans

Chimpanzees from the Fongoli research site in Senegal frequently share plant food and hunting tools with other chimps, exhibiting behavior similar to humans. The study found that females commonly receive food from males, potentially as a future mating strategy.

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.

Nano meets pharma at Harvard-BASF symposium

Researchers at Harvard University and BASF are working on creating nanoscale particles of drugs to overcome hydrophobic drug compounds. The symposium aims to discuss efficient creation and delivery of these tiny particles for targeted treatment, addressing major challenges in modern medicine.

Stinky frogs are a treasure trove of antibiotic substances

Scientists discovered a vast array of anti-bacterial substances, known as peptides, in the skin of odorous frogs. These peptides account for almost one-third of all antimicrobial peptides found worldwide, offering potential clues for developing new antibiotics.

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.

WSU researchers use a 3-D printer to make bone-like material

Researchers at Washington State University have successfully created a bone-like material and structure that can be used in orthopedic procedures, dental work, and to deliver medicine for treating osteoporosis. The material was produced using a 3D printer and has shown promising results in both in vitro and in vivo tests.

Exercise helps us to eat a healthy diet

A new study reveals that increased physical activity is linked to improved diet quality, suggesting that exercise can encourage healthier eating habits. The research also highlights the importance of social policy in promoting physical activity among the population to prevent obesity.

Imperfections may improve graphene sensors

Researchers found that defects in graphene improve its chemical sensing capabilities, leading to potential breakthroughs in gas detection technology. The study suggests that micrometer-sized line defects can enhance the sensitivity of graphene sensors.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Low staffing and poor quality of care at nation's for-profit nursing homes

The study found that the nation's largest for-profit chains operate with significantly lower staffing levels than non-profit and government-owned nursing homes, leading to poorer quality of care. The top 10 chains have a strategy of keeping labor costs low to increase profits, resulting in more deficiencies and serious deficiencies.

Body rebuilding: Researchers regenerate muscle in mice

A team of scientists from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and CellThera regenerated functional muscle tissue in mice using a novel protocol that combined reprogramming human cells and biopolymer microthreads. The study showed promising results, with most new muscle fibers composed of mouse cells, suggesting that fibrin microthreads alo...

"Look at that!" -- ravens use gestures, too

Researchers observed ravens using deictic gestures in the wild, such as pointing and holding up objects to test interest or strengthen bonds. This study suggests that complex communication systems may be more widespread than previously thought.

Use of opioid painkillers for abdominal pain has more than doubled

Chronic abdominal pain has seen a significant rise in opioid prescriptions, driven by factors such as campaigns to recognize pain as the "fifth vital sign". The use of opioids for non-cancer chronic pain is supported by limited evidence and can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and worsen abdominal pain.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

ONR-funded guided rockets hit fast-moving boat targets in test

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has successfully tested a new precision-guided weapon prototype, known as the Low-Cost Imaging Terminal Seeker (LCITS). LCITS enables unguided rockets to automatically compute and home in on targets after launch, providing naval aviators with a new lethal capability.

Microscopic worms could hold the key to living life on Mars

Scientists use Caenorhabditis elegans to study the effects of long-duration space exploration on humans. The worms develop and reproduce in space just like on Earth, making them an ideal model for investigating the challenges of Martian habitation.

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.

Gene is first linked to herpes-related cold sores

Researchers at the University of Utah have identified a gene associated with frequent herpes-related cold sores. The C21orf91 gene is linked to susceptibility to HSL, and variations in this gene may predict or prevent cold sore outbreaks.

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.

New tuberculosis research movement needed

The TB Research Movement aims to create a framework for concrete actions to harmonize and synergize TB research efforts globally. The movement is creating a framework for more research and innovation, particularly for the poor and vulnerable populations burdened by TB.

Environment and diet leave their prints on the heart

Researchers at University of Cambridge have mapped DNA methylation in human heart, revealing its connection to environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle. The study provides new insights into the genetic changes that can lead to heart disease and potential ways to identify and treat it.

Gene acts as a brake on breast cancer progression

A new study published in Cancer Discovery reveals that the 14-3-3σ gene plays a critical role in halting breast cancer initiation and progression. The research suggests that this gene is likely a major player in other types of cancer as well.