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Science News Archive 2011 - Page 273


Page 273 of 311

Mimicking photosynthesis path to solar-derived hydrogen fuel

A Penn State materials chemist has developed an artificial system that mimics photosynthesis to produce solar-derived hydrogen fuel. However, the process remains inefficient and expensive due to recombination of electrons and limited lifetime of the system. The researcher aims to improve efficiency by modeling energy pathways and adjus...

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 19, 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.

Common hip disorder can cause sports hernia

Researchers found that athletes with symptomatic femoro-acetabular impingement (FAI) had a higher incidence of athletic pubalgia and sports hernias. Treating the underlying hip condition can resolve symptoms, allowing patients to return to play.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·DateFeb 19, 2011

The world’s oldest water?

Deep saline groundwaters in the Witwatersrand Basin show unique chemical signatures that differ from ocean and surface waters, suggesting isolation for a long time. The discovery adds to our understanding of a unique environment with microbial ecosystems that thrive on chemical energy from rock.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·JournalChemical Geology·DateFeb 19, 2011

Turning to nature for inspiration

Researchers at Northwestern University are developing artificial hair cell sensors that mimic nature's ability to sense vibrations and movement. These biologically inspired sensors have the potential to improve medical device performance, enhance robotic capabilities, and create new consumer goods.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 19, 2011

OSU to study farming methods to curb, adapt to climate change

Researchers will investigate how climate change affects cereal crops and develop sustainable farming practices. The study aims to improve the long-term viability of cereal-based farming in the region, reducing carbon footprint and mitigating climate change impacts.

SourceOregon State University·DateFeb 18, 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.

Fountain of youth from the tap

Researchers found a correlation between lithium levels in tap water and lower mortality rates in Japanese municipalities. In experiments with the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans, lithium treatment led to increased longevity. The findings suggest that low-dose lithium may have life-prolonging effects in humans.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.

Research universities play a major role in national security

Research universities, like Penn State, host foreign students and visitors, creating security concerns. The National Security Higher Education Advisory Board fosters communication between higher education, the FBI, and federal agencies to promote understanding and cooperation.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 18, 2011

US will no longer dominate science and research

A global shift in research will reposition the US as a major partner but not leader, according to Penn State researcher Caroline Wagner. The US could benefit from this shift by adopting knowledge-sharing policies with emerging global researchers.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 18, 2011

Scientists bioengineer a protein to fight leukemia

Researchers have created a bioengineered protein called CD19-L that selectively targets and destroys leukemia cells, including those resistant to chemotherapy. This breakthrough discovery offers new hope for treating childhood leukemia.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalBritish Journal of Haematology·DateFeb 18, 2011

Universal flu vaccine study yields success in mice

A new study has successfully trialed a synthetic universal flu vaccine in mice, providing 100% protection against the H3N2 strain and 20% against the highly pathogenic bird flu. The vaccine uses peptides that trigger an immune response to a region of the flu virus present in all influenza A and B viruses.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of General Virology·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.

Bad news/good news

A study by Eric Lambin predicts the world may run out of productive agricultural land by 2050 due to rising global demand and land degradation. However, some developing countries have increased their forest cover while enhancing food production through innovation, sound policy, and good governance.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2011

Europe attracts American researchers

Karolinska Institutet, a leading medical university in Sweden, has attracted top American researcher Juleen Zierath with its high-quality research environment and competitive ERC grant. She focuses on improving diabetes health through clinical research.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateFeb 18, 2011

Women are better at forgiving

A Spanish study found that women are more empathetic and better at forgiving than men. The research also showed that parents forgive more than children, with lack of bitterness being the key condition for forgiveness.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalRevista Latinoamericana de Psicología·DateFeb 18, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biodiversity in danger: Which areas should be protected?

The DOPA observatory combines data on protected areas, species distributions, and socio-economic indicators to generate global environmental indicators and maps. This initiative aims to address anthropogenic pressures on ecosystems and identify new areas for protection.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·DateFeb 18, 2011

Pulmonary embolism after knee arthroscopy: Rare but serious

A new study reveals the risk of pulmonary embolism after outpatient knee arthroscopy is .028 percent, with identified risk factors including age, female gender, and cancer history. The study examined data from 374,033 patients undergoing 418,323 procedures between 1997 and 2006.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 18, 2011

How nature's patterns form

Researchers studying plant growth discover that universal features exist across various natural systems, including plants and animals. Alan Newell's work focuses on the mathematical models capturing these similarities.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateFeb 18, 2011

Study links hypoxia and inflammation in many diseases

A University of Colorado study explores the relationship between hypoxia and inflammation, finding that a protein called HIF plays a key role in the body's response to low oxygen levels. The research may help patients who undergo organ transplants or suffer from infections or cancer

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.

Tissue engineering methods earn funding to heal little hearts

Texas Children's Hospital researcher Dr. Jeffrey Jacot receives a National Science Foundation CAREER Award and $450,000 grant to develop tissue engineering therapies using stem cells derived from human amniotic fluid. The goal is to create living heart tissue that can 'patch' or reconstruct hearts with congenital defects.

SourceTexas Children's Hospital·DateFeb 18, 2011

Juggling languages can build better brains

Research suggests that bilingual speakers outperform monolinguals in certain mental abilities, such as editing out irrelevant information and prioritizing tasks. This 'mental juggling' skill allows bilinguals to better navigate between languages and enhances their cognitive flexibility.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 18, 2011

1 person of 1,900 met AHA's definition of ideal heart health, says University of Pittsburgh study

According to a new study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, only one out of 1,900 people met the American Heart Association's definition of ideal cardiovascular health. The study evaluated 1,933 participants and found that less than 10% met five or more criteria for heart-healthy behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 18, 2011

What's new in hip care?

Studies analyzed Medicare beneficiaries who had elective primary THR for osteoarthritis and found the risk of revision was approximately two percent per year for the first 18 months post-surgery. High-performance hips with improved functional capacity are also being developed for active patients, offering more durable implants.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 18, 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.

First certified reference material for nanoparticle size analysis

The European Commission Joint Research Centre has developed the world's first certified reference material for nanoparticle size analysis. The material provides a stable benchmark for reliable hazard assessments and process quality control, promoting market confidence and innovation.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.

Deep brain stimulation helps severe OCD, but pioneer advises caution

Deep brain stimulation therapy has shown promise in reducing symptoms of severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) for a small subset of patients. After years of research, Dr. Benjamin Greenberg presents the longest-term results of the technique, highlighting its potential to improve symptoms and quality of life.

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 18, 2011

Back to the roots of the solar system

Two new observations reveal detailed structures in protoplanetary disks of two young stars, including a large gap similar to our solar system's. The images suggest the presence of one or more massive planets sweeping up material from the disk, potentially forming an entire planetary system.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.

Anti-aging hormone Klotho may prevent complications

Researchers found that Klotho hormone levels are low in patients with chronic kidney disease, which can lead to serious side effects. Restoring adequate Klotho levels improved renal function and reduced vascular calcification in mice with CKD.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 18, 2011

High-caffeine-consuming boys get greater rush from caffeine than girls

A double-blind study found that high-caffeine consuming boys experience a greater rush and more energy from caffeine compared to girls. The study also revealed differences in response to caffeine between genders, including increased blood pressure and heart rate in males.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalExperimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology·DateFeb 18, 2011

Iowa State study examines why innocent suspects may confess to a crime

Researchers at Iowa State University found that innocent suspects may confess to a crime to relieve short-term distress and avoid long-term consequences. In two experiments, participants shifted their admissions to avoid immediate questions, even knowing it increased the likelihood of future consequences.

SourceIowa State University·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·DateFeb 18, 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.

High-volume hospitals improve orthopedic outcomes

Patients who undergo elective orthopedic surgeries at high-volume hospitals have better surgical outcomes and fewer complications than those at local hospitals. Regionalizers, or patients traveling to regional high-volume hospitals, tend to be younger, white, male, and have private insurance.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·DateFeb 18, 2011

$20 million USDA grant to study climate on corn-based cropping systems

Researchers will collect and analyze data on carbon, nitrogen, and water movement to create models and evaluate crop management practices. The goal is to develop scenarios based on different practices and offer training for teachers and scientists to understand climate shifts and agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2011

What a rat can tell us about touch

Researchers at Northwestern University are studying the rat whisker system to gain a better understanding of how animals perceive touch. By developing models and simulating the rat's behavior, they aim to unlock the secrets of neural processing and potentially create new technologies that can mimic the senses of mammals.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 18, 2011

Brown scientists to discuss best practices for the oceans

Two Brown University scientists, Heather Leslie and Leila Sievanen, will discuss the importance of marine spatial planning, ecosystem-based management, and social science inclusion in managing the nation's oceans. Leslie will focus on understanding ocean ecosystems' resilience to variability and climate change, while Sievanen will high...

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.

3 NYU faculty win Sloan Foundation Fellowships

NYU's Robert Fergus, Jinyang Li, and Matthieu Wyart receive $50,000 fellowships to support their innovative work on computer vision, machine learning, and physical systems. The awards recognize the potential of these rising stars in their respective fields.

SourceNew York University·DateFeb 18, 2011

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2011 Annual Meeting tip sheet

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons emphasizes the risks of delayed hip fracture surgery, which can lead to increased medical complications and longer hospital stays. Additionally, researchers highlight high rates of adverse events in patients undergoing partial hip replacement, particularly among Medicare beneficiaries. The s...

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 18, 2011

Depression symptoms increase over time for addiction-prone women

A new study found that depression symptoms increase over time for addiction-prone women, contradicting the common notion that these disorders are either genetic or caused by environmental factors. The research highlights the complex interplay between biological, social, and community-level factors that influence these disorders.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateFeb 18, 2011

Experts question aspects of prescribed burning

A group of scientists argue that prescribed burning may cause more problems than it solves, as there is little evidence that Mediterranean-climate plants are fire-adapted. The researchers suggest alternative management practices to prevent increased fire frequency.

SourceRoyal Botanic Gardens Kew·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateFeb 18, 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.

Recipe for success

The University of Idaho will lead a five-year, $20 million USDA-funded project to study the impacts of climate change on Pacific Northwest wheat and barley production. The team will focus on cereal production systems and create a region-wide research, outreach, and education network to address complex issues raised by changing climate.

SourceUniversity of Idaho·DateFeb 18, 2011

Asthma through the eyes of a medical anthropologist

Asthma affects 8% of Americans and 300 million worldwide, but global variations in diagnosis and treatment have significant implications. Researchers are exploring how cultural factors impact asthma management, including the use of different terms to describe symptoms and varying levels of parental involvement.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.