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Science News Archive 2011 - Page 52


Page 52 of 311

IADR/AADR publish study on obesity link to periodontitis

Researchers found that specific microRNAs are up-regulated in obese individuals with healthy periodontium and non-obese subjects with periodontal disease. The study suggests microRNA modulation may play a role in modulating inflammatory pathways within periodontal tissues.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateOct 31, 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.

Do deficits in brain cannabinoids contribute to eating disorders?

Researchers found global increases in ligand binding to CB1 receptors in the brains of women with anorexia nervosa, suggesting a compensatory process. The study suggests that the endocannabinoid system may be a potential new target for developing drugs to treat eating disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 31, 2011

Cigarette smoking's impact lingers after quitting

Current and former smokers face impaired pancreatic duct cell function and increased risk of colorectal cancer, even after quitting. Women are more susceptible to these risks than men, highlighting the need for early smoking cessation as part of treatment plans.

SourceAmerican College of Gastroenterology·DateOct 31, 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.

Redefining 'clean'

Researchers have developed a new technique using low-temperature plasmas to deactivate potentially harmful biomolecules, including those that can cause severe medical problems. The study's findings suggest that the effectiveness of this method may depend on the composition of the plasma.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateOct 31, 2011

UV light controls antibodies, improves biosensors

Using ultra-short pulses of ultraviolet light, scientists increase the number of right-side-up antibodies in QCM sensors, more than doubling their sensitivity. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for research using this type of sensor.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateOct 31, 2011

Probiotics effective in combating antibiotic-associated diarrhea

Researchers found that probiotics significantly reduce the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Probiotic therapy has been shown to be effective in treating various GI conditions, including ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

SourceAmerican College of Gastroenterology·DateOct 31, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Technical aptitude: Do women score lower because they just aren't interested?

A new study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science suggests that women's lower scores on technical aptitude tests may be due to biased testing methods rather than a lack of interest. The researcher found that women score lower on technical aptitude at all intelligence levels, while also exhibiting higher levels of general i...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateOct 31, 2011

Mathematically detecting bubbles before they burst

A new mathematical model can detect financial bubbles in real-time using tick data and statistical techniques. The model estimates asset price volatility to determine if a bubble is forming, which can help prevent economic collapses.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Financial Mathematics·DateOct 31, 2011

NBA players not immune to serious illness from norovirus

A 2010 outbreak involving 13 NBA teams highlights the risk of norovirus among athletes and staff. Strict hygiene measures, including hand washing and disinfecting, can limit transmission and prevent illnesses.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateOct 31, 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.

Personal stem cell banks could be staple of future health care

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center have discovered that old stem cells can be rejuvenated by being placed in a young microenvironment. This could lead to personal stem cell banks treating age-related diseases, with the potential for regular rescue and infusion.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 31, 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.

Hospital smoke-free policies should consider patient needs

Researchers found that patients and staff continue to smoke on hospital grounds, citing safety issues and lack of support. Hospitals should reframe smoking as an addiction requiring treatment, not just a personal choice.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 31, 2011

'Ay, there's the rub'

Researchers have successfully modified polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) to make it nearly a million times more wear-resistant. They use atomic force microscopes and nanoparticles to study the effects of friction on wear and develop new materials to eliminate wear.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateOct 31, 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.

Putting the body back into the mind of schizophrenia

A study using the rubber hand illusion found that people with schizophrenia have a weakened sense of body ownership. This suggests that movement therapy could be helpful for these individuals, particularly those who experience out-of-body experiences. The findings also support the idea that exercise may reduce symptoms of schizophrenia.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 31, 2011

Modern genetics answers age-old question on Garrod's fourth inborn error of metabolism

Researchers have solved the long-standing mystery of Garrod's fourth inborn error of metabolism by identifying two different DCXR mutations linked to pentosuria in Ashkenazi Jews. This discovery sheds light on historical and geographical patterns of human genetic mutations, providing a new understanding of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2011

Some answers about orthotics

A recent study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that over-the-counter orthotics can significantly reduce plantar fascia strain, with an average reduction of 34% in 17 out of 20 subjects. This could lead to improved treatment options for people suffering from plantar fasciitis.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalJournal of Foot and Ankle Research·DateOct 31, 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.

DNA find sheds light on the human brain

Researchers identified genes responsible for thousands of tiny changes in brain tissue DNA, finding they were active in areas linked to cell renewal. The study provides new insights into how the brain works and may link retrotransposon activity to brain diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateOct 30, 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.

Study finds community counseling reduced the prevalence of TB on a budget

A large-scale community-randomized trial found that community counseling reduced TB prevalence and child infections by half, with costs under $1 per person per year. The ZAMSTAR project, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, improved TB testing and service integration in communities.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateOct 30, 2011

UC Berkeley findings offer new clues into the addicted brain

Researchers identified the orbitofrontal and anterior cingulate cortex as key players in impaired decision making, leading to addictive and compulsive behavior. The study's findings may pave the way for more targeted treatments for substance abuse and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 30, 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.

So many proteins, so much promise

A team at Northwestern University has developed a new method to identify thousands of protein molecules quickly, which could lead to the discovery of biomarkers and early disease detection. The approach, known as top-down proteomics, measures proteins intact instead of breaking them down into smaller parts.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateOct 30, 2011

Fat cells in abdomen fuel spread of ovarian cancer

A large pad of fat cells in the abdomen provides nutrients that promote the spread and growth of ovarian cancer. Cancer cells reprogram their metabolism to thrive on lipids acquired from fat cells, leading to rapid tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 30, 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.

Commuting - bad for your health?

Research published in BMC Public Health found that commuting by car or public transport is associated with negative health effects compared to walking or cycling. The study of 21,000 people showed that longer journey times increased the risk of poor health outcomes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateOct 30, 2011

Young people lead the way in communities working together

A new project, 'Global Youth Leaders', empowers young people from deprived communities to connect with cultures outside their own through workshops and mentorship. The initiative aims to break down pre-conceived views and broaden knowledge and understanding among participants.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateOct 29, 2011

Researchers identify potential risk factors for severe altitude sickness

A large study found that exercise-related responses, such as oxygen desaturation and heart rate changes, are independent risk factors for severe altitude sickness. Taking acetazolamide can reduce some of these risks, particularly among young adults, women, and those with a history of migraine or previous high-altitude illnesses.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateOct 29, 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.

Mayo Clinic partners with advocacy organizations

The Mayo Clinic has developed a new tool kit, Action Signs, to help identify symptoms of mental health disorders in youth. The toolkit aims to improve diagnosis and care for up to 75% of youth with mental health disorders who are currently not identified or receiving necessary treatment.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 28, 2011
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 chart gene expression in the brain across lifespan

Researchers chart gene expression in human brain from fetal development to aging, revealing coordinated changes that shape brain structure and function. The study found reversible gene expression changes after birth and during Alzheimer's disease, with distinct patterns of change at different life stages.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNature·DateOct 28, 2011

Folate receptors may serve as a front door to ovarian cancer treatment

A new therapy uses folate receptors as a front door to deliver chemotherapeutic agents directly to cancer cells, improving effectiveness while reducing side effects. The strategy has shown a 72% improvement in progression-free survival for women with the most folate receptor overexpression.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateOct 28, 2011

Obese people regain weight after dieting due to hormones

A study of 50 overweight adults found that hormone levels influencing hunger changed after initial weight loss, leading to weight regain within a year. The research suggests that addressing hunger and considering pharmacotherapy or hormone manipulation may be key to preventing relapse.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 28, 2011

Never too old to donate a kidney?

A new study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that individuals over 70 years old can safely donate a kidney without compromising their health. The organs from these elderly donors last as long as those from younger deceased donors, but not as long as those from younger living donors.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 28, 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.

Scientists measure dream content for the first time

Researchers used lucid dreamers to analyze brain activity during dreaming and found activation in regions relevant to movement planning. The study confirms that dreams are not passive observations but involve brain activity associated with the dream content.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 28, 2011

More power to the cranberry: Study shows juice better than extracts at fighting infections

A new study by researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute shows that cranberry juice is more effective than proanthocyanidin extracts in preventing biofilm formation, a precursor to urinary tract infections. The study found that cranberry juice completely prevented biofilm formation, while extracts showed limited ability to reduce it.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalFood Science and Biotechnology·DateOct 28, 2011

Spin lasers in the fast lane

Researchers in Bochum developed a new concept for ultrafast semiconductor lasers by leveraging the intrinsic angular momentum of electrons called spin. This innovation enables modulation frequencies above 100 GHz, paving the way for high-speed data transmission and future Internet applications.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 28, 2011

UT study looks at manual wheelchair use, exercise and calorie burning

Researchers at the University of Tennessee have calculated calorie costs of various physical activities performed by manual wheelchair users. The study found that individuals with disabilities can expend significant energy while engaging in household chores and sports like fencing.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalAdapted Physical Activity Quarterly·DateOct 28, 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.

Measuring the distance of processes

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have developed a new method to measure the distance between stationary and non-stationary processes, enabling more accurate statistical tests. This approach makes it possible to construct better models for predicting extreme events in time series data.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Statistical Association·DateOct 28, 2011