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Science News Archive 2011


Page 288 of 311

GSA Bulletin highlights: New research posted Jan. 21-28

Scientists evaluated steady fault slip rate over 25 thousand years along the Altyn Tagh fault, providing constraints for Quaternary slip history. Chironomids were used to record terrestrial temperature changes in Arctic interglacials of the past 200,000 years.

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.

Older adults often excluded from clinical trials

A recent study found that more than half of clinical trials exclude people based on their age or age-related conditions. This exclusion leaves healthcare providers in the dark when determining which treatment will best serve their patients.

Field study of smoggy inversions to end

A field study has been conducted to investigate the causes of winter inversions in urban areas like Salt Lake City, which can trap pollutants and lead to poor air quality. The researchers used a range of methods, including weather balloons, cars, and gliders, to collect data on temperature, wind, and moisture.

NIH researchers identify genetic cause of new vascular disease

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health's Undiagnosed Diseases Program have identified a novel disorder characterized by progressive and painful arterial calcification affecting the lower extremities. The condition, associated with mutations in the NT5E gene, has been observed in nine individuals from three unrelated families.

UMD advance lights possible path to creating next-gen computer chips

University of Maryland researchers introduce a technique called RAPID lithography that uses visible light to create tiny integrated circuits comparable to shorter wavelength radiation. This breakthrough could lead to substantial savings in cost and ease of production for companies like Intel.

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.

Vegans' elevated heart risk requires omega-3s and B12

A review of vegetarianism's biochemistry finds vegans at elevated risk for blood clots and atherosclerosis. Key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12 can mitigate this risk with dietary supplements or fortified foods.

Mayo researchers pinpoint how 1 cancer gene functions

A Mayo Clinic research team has pinpointed the function of the MMSET gene, revealing how it enables disease-causing mutations to occur. Normally-functioning MMSET plays a restorative role within the genome, but when impaired, cells lose the correct response to DNA damage.

The human genome's breaking points

A comprehensive analysis of human genomes identified 28,000 structural variants, including over 1,000 gene-altering mutations linked to diseases. The findings shed light on why some parts of the genome mutate more frequently than others.

Uterine health more important than egg quality

A new study published in Fertility and Sterility reveals that the health of a woman's uterus is more relevant than egg quality for a successful pregnancy outcome. The research found that babies born from frozen embryo transfer cycles had markedly greater birth weights compared to those born through standard IVF.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rare meteorites reveal Mars collision caused water flow

Scientists have used rare Martian meteorite samples to reveal that a collision on Mars caused water to flow near the planet's surface. The research found veins created during an impact, which suggests that buried ice melted and deposited minerals such as clay and serpentine.

ESA members take part in National Bed Bug Summit

Entomologists presented various methods of bed bug control, emphasizing prevention and non-chemical approaches. The summit highlighted the need for continued research into bed bugs, with a focus on improving public awareness and community involvement in control efforts.

Losing body fat before pregnancy can be beneficial for the baby

Researchers found that obese mothers who lost weight before pregnancy had healthier male offspring with reduced triglycerides and insulin resistance. The study suggests pre-pregnancy dietary intervention can reverse adverse metabolic effects of maternal obesity on offspring.

All in the family: Lower back disease may be in your genes

A large-scale study found a significant genetic component in the development of symptomatic lumbar disc disease, with individuals with the condition more likely to have family members with disc disease. The study's findings support a genetic basis for the disease, although shared environmental risks cannot be ruled out.

'Red mud' disaster's main threat to crops is not toxic metals

Scientists report that red mud's high alkalinity and salt content are the main threats to crop growth, not toxic metals or radioactivity. Adding gypsum can reduce alkalinity and accelerate salt removal, recommending long-term monitoring of metal levels in crops.

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.

New nanoparticles make blood clots visible

New nanoparticles designed to target fibrin in blood clots can be seen with a new type of CT scanner, providing early detection and potential treatment options for heart attacks. This technology has the potential to save lives by quickly identifying unstable plaque and guiding targeted treatments.

A protein reinforces memory and prevents forgetfulness

A research study published in Nature found that IGF-II protein increases in the brain of rats after a learning session, reinforcing memory and preventing forgetfulness. The protein is essential for memory formation and consolidation, making it a potential target for therapies enhancing cognitive function.

Migraine surgery offers good long-term outcomes

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that nearly 90% of patients experienced at least partial relief from migraine headaches after five years. The surgery targets 'trigger sites' in the muscles or nerves producing pain, with significant improvements in quality of life.

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.

MicroRNA cocktail helps turn skin cells into stem cells

A team at Sanford-Burnham identified specific microRNAs that enhance the reprogramming process from skin cells to induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Adding these miRNAs increases cell survival and improves iPS cell generation.

Flash of fresh insight by electrical brain stimulation

Researchers have discovered that electrical stimulation of the anterior temporal lobes can increase an individual's ability to reach fresh insights and solve complex problems. This breakthrough could potentially revolutionize the way we approach creative problem-solving.

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.

Biologists discover 'control center' for sperm production

A new study has identified DUO1, a genetic hierarchy that governs sperm cell production and fertility in flowering plants. The research found that DUO1 acts as a master switch to ensure twin fertile sperm cells are made in each pollen grain.

GOES-13 Satellite sees Groundhog's Day on ice

A massive winter storm hit the US, with some areas receiving record-breaking snowfall. The GOES-13 satellite data suggests that Punxsutawney Phil may not have seen his shadow, potentially altering the traditional Groundhog Day prediction.

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.

Six small planets orbiting a sun-like star amaze astronomers

The Kepler-11 system features five inner planets with masses between 2.3 and 13.5 times that of Earth, orbiting within 50 days, and a sixth planet with an orbital period of 118 days. The planets' densities suggest they may be mostly water or hydrogen-helium gases, defying expectations for small hot planets.

New age researchers highlight how man is changing the world

Researchers at University of Leicester introduce the Anthropocene, a geological epoch marked by significant human impact on the environment. The studies highlight effects of population growth, megacities, and fossil fuel use on global warming, sea level rise, and biodiversity.

Lampreys give clues to evolution of immune system

Primitive lampreys have structures within their gills that play a role similar to the thymus, where T cells develop in mammals and birds. The finding suggests two separate organs for immune cell development preceded the appearance of key features like antibodies and T cell receptors.

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.

A cool way to make glass

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a new way to melt glass by cooling it to near Absolute Zero, using quantum mechanics to defy classical physics. This breakthrough could pave the way for future materials science discoveries.

Level of tumor protein indicates chances cancer will spread

Researchers found that high levels of a particular protein in cancer cells can predict cancer spread with high accuracy. The protein, CPE-delta N, was measured in tumors and surrounding tissues from patients with liver and rare tumors, with results showing that it can accurately predict metastasis or recurrence.

3 trials of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in children

Two trials found that intermittent preventive treatment provided substantial additional protection against clinical malaria, severe malaria, and hospital admissions. A third trial demonstrated the effectiveness of community-based delivery by volunteer village health workers in rural areas.

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.

Size of airborne flu virus impacts risk, Virginia Tech researchers say

A study by Virginia Tech researchers found that airborne influenza A viruses can remain suspended in the air for hours and are associated with fine particles less than 2.5 micrometers. The average concentration of viruses was 16,000 per cubic meter of air, which is sufficient to induce infection.

High levels of circulating DNA may signal faster progression of lung cancer

Research suggests that high levels of circulating DNA, specifically human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), can indicate a faster progression of lung cancer and lower overall survival. Patients with lower hTERT levels had improved time to progression and higher overall survival rates compared to those with higher levels.

New quartet of ant genomes advanced by international collaborative

The genome sequences of four ants - red harvester ant, Argentine ant, fire ant, and leaf-cutter ant - have been published in coordinated releases. The international collaborative effort sped up the advancement of these genome projects, providing insights into social behavior and pest management.

Where has all the Gulf spill oil gone?

A computer model predicts the environmental fate and impact of oil and chemical dispersant in deepwater spills like the Gulf of Mexico incident. The tool will aid risk assessment and decision-making for scientists managing such disasters.

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.

Home and away: Are invasive plant species really that special?

A global collaboration found that invasive plant species often have similar or lower abundance at introduced and native sites, challenging a common assumption. This suggests that biosecurity screening procedures need to be revised to address how species behave in non-native communities.

Scientists make key step in the development of a norovirus treatment

Researchers at the University of Southampton successfully crystallized a key norovirus enzyme, paving the way for the development of an antiviral treatment. The breakthrough could help alleviate the significant public health burden caused by noroviruses, which are responsible for one million cases in the UK each year.

New study alters long-held beliefs about shingles

A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that shingles recurrences are more common than previously thought, occurring in over 5% of patients within eight years. Patients experiencing prolonged pain after the initial episode were more likely to face a recurrence.

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.

Video games are good for girls -- if parents play along

Research from Brigham Young University found that girls who played video games with a parent exhibited better behavior, stronger family connections, and improved mental health. The study suggests that co-playing can account for up to 20% of these outcomes.

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.

Predicting liver cancer spread

A team of researchers has identified a potential biomarker for predicting future metastasis in patients with the most common form of liver cancer. Quantification of the mRNA template for a truncated version of the protein carboxypeptidase E (CPE) was found to predict intrahepatic metastasis with high sensitivity and specificity.

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.