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Science News Archive 2011


Page 56 of 311

CT scans for lung cancer screening may be beneficial in detecting COPD

A study published in JAMA suggests that CT scans used for lung cancer screening can help identify chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in heavy smokers. The research found that adding an expiratory CT scan to the baseline inspiratory scan improved diagnostic accuracy, particularly for individuals with severe obstruction.

'Junk DNA' defines differences between humans and chimps

Researchers at Georgia Tech discover that genomic gaps in human and chimp genes are caused by viral-like sequences, leading to differences in gene expression and morphology. The study suggests that 'junk DNA' may hold the key to understanding why humans differ from chimps.

Restraint improves dielectric performance, lifespan

Duke University engineers demonstrated that rigidly constraining dielectric materials can increase their energy density and decrease rates of failure. By preventing physical deformation, epoxy acts as a mechanical constraint to enhance the component's ability to carry greater voltage.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

NASA satellite sees a more powerful Hurricane Rina, warnings up in Mexico

Hurricane Rina is intensifying off Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, with NASA satellite imagery showing stronger thunderstorms and cloud top temperatures indicating increased power. The storm is projected to make landfall in the hurricane warning area by Wednesday night or early Thursday, bringing heavy rainfall and dangerous storm surge.

Now there's an app for NASA's Swift Observatory

The NASA Swift Observatory has released a free iPhone application that provides up-to-date information on gamma-ray burst discoveries, allowing users to track the location of Swift as it orbits Earth. The app also offers an interactive map, gallery of images, and real-time observations.

Singling out the real breast cancer among the lumps

Researchers have discovered a panel of proteins shed by breast cancer that can distinguish between real cancer and benign lumps. The biomarker panel outperforms mammograms and single biomarkers in distinguishing between breast cancer and benign lumps, with some panels ranking above 0.95.

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.

Regulatory process for organ scaling discovered

A new study has identified Dpp and Pentagone as key players in the scaling process of a fruit fly's wing. The research found that the feedback loop between Dpp and Pentagone regulates proportional tissue growth, keeping body proportions constant despite external factors like nutrition and temperature.

Standard definition of loss-to-follow-up for ART patients

A new standard definition for loss-to-follow-up (LTFU) has been established for HIV antiretroviral therapy patients, using a 180-day clinic visit threshold. This definition was developed based on statistical analysis of data from 111 health facilities across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

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.

Low levels of BNP hormone linked to development of Type 2 diabetes

A study by Roman Pfister and colleagues found a potentially causal link between low B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) hormone levels and the development of type 2 diabetes. The researchers suggest that BNP may be a promising target for interventions aimed at preventing type 2 diabetes.

The Generation X Report: U-M survey paints a surprisingly positive portrait

A University of Michigan survey found most Gen Xers lead active, balanced, and happy lives, with 90% participating in outdoor activities and 40% engaging in two or more recreation and leisure activities per month. Generation X adults are also engaged in community organizations, read regularly, and report high levels of happiness.

Surgical treatment within six months of lumbar disc herniation

Patients with herniated lumbar disc symptoms who waited over six months to undergo treatment had poorer outcomes compared to those who treated their symptoms within six months. Surgical treatment, in particular, was found to be significantly more effective than nonoperative treatment, regardless of symptom duration.

Space debris, more efficient LEDs, and thinner, cheaper solar cells

Researchers are developing cutting-edge solutions for renewable energy and environmental research, including thousands of sensors to monitor climate change, novel LED designs that boost efficiency, and thinner solar cells. These innovations aim to make space safer by tracking space debris and improve energy sustainability.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

UCSF tapped for US National AIDS Strategy initiative

The UCSF Center for AIDS Prevention Studies will receive funding to tackle two primary goals of the National AIDS Strategy: increasing access to care and optimizing health outcomes. The program aims to close gaps in HIV testing, linkage to care, and treatment success among high-risk populations.

New test can precisely pinpoint food pathogens

A new genomic approach developed by Cornell University scientists enables precise identification of food-borne bacteria, facilitating the detection of outbreaks and their sources. This breakthrough method has the potential to uncover smaller outbreaks that may have gone unnoticed previously.

Peter Thiel announces Breakout Labs to energize innovation

Breakout Labs aims to accelerate revolutionary science by supporting independent scientists and early-stage companies with radical ideas. Funding is provided through a revolving fund, with successful projects contributing back to the program.

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.

A World Series to remember?

A new study published in Psychological Science found that fans of baseball teams tend to remember the games their teams won more than the ones they lost. The researchers discovered that positive experiences and social factors play a significant role in boosting memory for winning events.

Geoscientists find key to why some patients get infections from cardiac implants

Researchers found that certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria have genetic variants that enable them to form biofilms on cardiac devices. This discovery offers clues for preventing infections in patients with implanted devices, which currently cost thousands of dollars and millions of dollars in healthcare costs each year.

The role of fat in assessing breast cancer risk

A new study finds that both dense and non-dense fat tissue are independently associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. The research used sophisticated computer software to analyze mammograms of postmenopausal women with breast cancer, comparing them to controls without cancer.

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.

University of Missouri program helps teachers prevent teen suicides

The University of Missouri's Missouri Partnership for Educational Renewal (MPER) has developed a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention in schools. With training efforts, school districts like Parkway School District have implemented standardized responses to address suicidal students before a tragedy occurs.

Extreme melting on Greenland ice sheet, reports CCNY team

A CCNY team analysis suggests the Greenland ice sheet can experience record-breaking melting even without record-high temperatures due to positive feedback mechanisms. The team's findings indicate a near-record loss of snow and ice, with melting continuing even without last year's record highs.

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.

Infection is an important post-stroke problem

Scientists at the University of Calgary discovered Natural Killer T-cells suppress the immune system after a stroke, leading to infections. A new drug has been found to stop these cells from suppressing the immune system, potentially reducing death rates associated with stroke.

Glaciers in southwest China feel the brunt of climate change

Scientists found significant increases in annual temperatures in south-western China, with 77% of weather stations displaying statistically significant rises. Glaciers are retreating at an alarming rate, threatening natural habitats and ecosystems.

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.

Young, apparently healthy -- and at risk of heart disease

A new study reveals that young adults with normal weight and BMI can still have atherosclerosis, highlighting the importance of measuring visceral fat. Waist circumference is a simple predictor of increased visceral adiposity and premature atherosclerosis.

Fast diagnostics not enough to change health outcomes

Recent research highlights that faster diagnostic tests are necessary but not sufficient to improve health outcomes for tuberculosis and HIV patients. The study emphasizes the need for thorough evaluation of diagnostics to ensure technical advancements translate into better patient care.

Estimating the effectiveness of vaccination programs

Researchers developed a method to estimate vaccination program effectiveness in three African countries, identifying areas for improvement. The study's findings can inform strategies to increase vaccine coverage and address issues with vaccine delivery.

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.

Simple gut hormone combo makes our brains think we're full

Researchers discovered that a combination of two gut hormones, PYY and GLP-1, can reduce food intake and appetite by deceiving the brain. This finding has significant implications for obesity therapy and could lead to the development of a daily pill that promotes healthy eating.

IADR/AADR publish study on dental caries vaccine

Researchers demonstrate that an anti-caries DNA vaccine, pGJA-P/VAX, combined with a Salmonella protein adjuvant, enhances saliva IgA responses and protects against dental caries. The study shows that the adjuvant promotes specific immunoglobulin A responses in saliva and offers better protection against caries.

Immunization Action Coalition receives $1.4 million award from CDC

The Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) will distribute its publications to healthcare professionals and create new immunization education materials with the support of a $1.4 million cooperative agreement from the CDC. IAC will also become the nation's central clearinghouse for Vaccine Information Statements in languages other than En...

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.

Multidisciplinary research urged for optimal melanoma surgery

A recent meta-analysis notes that current evidence is not adequate to determine the best margin for common melanoma presentations. A new study adds to the evidence base with no significant difference in overall survival or recurrence-free survival for patients with a melanoma thicker than 2mm and two centimeter resection margins.

How cannabis causes 'cognitive chaos' in the brain

Research by University of Bristol neuroscientists found that cannabis disrupts coordinated brain waves, leading to impaired decision-making and memory. The study suggests that 'disorchestrated brains' may contribute to psychiatric diseases like schizophrenia.

Chain hotels lead the way in going green

A WSU study suggests chain hotels are more likely to adopt energy-efficient light bulbs, train staff to reduce waste, and educate guests on water conservation. This trend may give independents a competitive disadvantage in attracting customers. Hotels can save up to $6.75 per day by implementing greener practices.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A substance from bacteria can lead to allergy-free sunscreen

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered a natural UV filter called scytonemin that can protect against skin damage and allergies. The substance, produced by certain cyanobacteria, absorbs UV light without breaking down, making it a promising alternative to chemical-based sunscreens.

Many Alzheimer's patients get drugs with opposing effects

A recent study found that nearly 37% of Alzheimer's patients taking cholinesterase inhibitors also received anticholinergic drugs, which can have negative effects on cognition and function. However, the study revealed no association between dual use and increased risk of death or nursing home entry.

Nanotubes key to microscopic mechanics

Carbon nanotubes have been used to increase the electrical conductivity of silicon nitride by 13 orders of magnitude, enabling the production of intricate micro-components without compromising production time or integrity. The resulting nanocomposite materials offer improved wear resistance and preservation of mechanical properties.

First-of-a-kind tension wood study broadens biofuels research

A comprehensive study of tension wood reveals its unique features and links them to sugar release, which is crucial for producing biofuel. The research provides insight into the molecular and biochemical properties of tension wood, shedding light on how it can be used to design more suitable bioenergy crops.

Canada Research Chair renewal for Kerry Courneya

Exercise and cancer research have received a significant boost with Dr. Kerry Courneya's Canada Research Chair (CRC) renewal. Several large-scale trials are currently underway, including the CARE trial for breast cancer patients and the CHALLENGE trial for colon cancer survivors.

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.