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Science News Archive 2011


Page 76 of 311

Practical play: Interactive video games appear valuable for ICU patients

Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that interactive video games safely enhance physical therapy for ICU patients, boosting their interest in therapy and motivation to do more. The study suggests that video game therapy activities can improve muscle weakness and balance in critically ill adults.

Why narcoleptics get fat

Researchers found that narcoleptic patients have a deficiency of the neuropeptide hormone orexin, leading to impaired brown fat activity. This can result in excessive weight gain despite reduced caloric intake.

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.

This is your brain on estrogen

Researchers have identified estrogen receptors in specific brain areas that influence metabolism, weight gain, and fertility. Deleting these receptors from mice resulted in significant weight gain and metabolic changes.

Frequently used weight-loss method is light on evidence

A newly published Cochrane systematic review reveals that the transtheoretical model stages of change (TTM SOC) method is ineffective in achieving significant weight loss. The study found that TTM SOC resulted in only 2kg or less weight loss, and no conclusive evidence of sustained weight loss was observed.

MRI study finds that depression uncouples brain's hate circuit

A recent MRI study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that depression frequently uncouples the brain's 'hate circuit', which includes regions involved in risk and action responses, reward and emotion processing. This disruption may lead to impaired ability to control social interactions and increased self-loathing.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Survey reveals reasons doctors avoid online error-reporting tools

A survey of radiation oncologists and healthcare professionals reveals that fears of getting into trouble and embarrassment are the primary barriers to using online error-reporting systems. Despite this, most respondents recognize the value of reporting errors and near-misses for improving care and patient safety.

Panama REDD: Getting what you pay for

A new report by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute identifies gaps in Panama's forest monitoring, making it difficult to track emission reductions from REDD+ activities. The study emphasizes the need for low-cost, verifiable forest monitoring techniques to verify the effectiveness of conservation strategies.

Fishy behaviour

Researchers found that timid fish are more likely to be caught using angling techniques near rocky outcrops or submerged vegetation, while bolder fish are targeted by beach seining. The study's findings suggest that boldness can influence an individual's capture technique and habitat preference.

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.

Rice physicists move 1 step closer to quantum computer

Researchers at Rice University have created a tiny 'electron superhighway' that could be useful for building a quantum computer. The device, which acts as an electron superhighway, is one of the building blocks needed to create quantum particles that store and manipulate data.

Stroke rate 25 percent higher for Metis

A study by the University of Manitoba and the Manitoba Metis Federation found a 25% higher stroke rate among Metis compared to other Manitobans. The research identified a link between Metis-specific health issues, such as smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which increase stroke risk.

Keeping track of reality

A structural variation in the paracingulate sulcus (PCS) may explain why some people are better at distinguishing real events from imagined ones. Adults with an absent PCS were significantly less accurate on memory tasks, despite their own confidence in their memory abilities.

Combination of MRI techniques identifies recent stroke

A study using MRI techniques has identified patients with recent strokes who can benefit from timely thrombosis treatment. The technique, combining diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), enables the pinpointing of the stroke's onset time, which is crucial for determining treatment efficacy.

Green tea helps mice keep off extra pounds

Obese mice fed green tea supplement gained weight 45% more slowly than control group, suggesting EGCG limits fat absorption and enhances fat use. Green tea did not suppress appetite and a person would need to drink ten cups daily to match study amount.

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.

Lungfish provides insight to life on land

Researchers studied lungfish to understand pelvic fin muscle development and its connection to the emergence of hind legs. The team found a transitional mechanism in bony fish that paved the way for tetrapod physiology, highlighting the importance of understanding evolutionary pathways in land adaptation.

Telestroke the next best thing

A new study found that Telestroke technology provides high-quality care for rural patients, administering stroke drug tPA at the same rate as urban centers. Effective use of Telestroke resulted in a 50% decrease in emergency room transfers and $1 million in health-care savings over four years.

Scientists take up golf to prove long-standing theory of cell stickiness

Researchers from Nagoya University used a micro putter to test the adhesion of yeast cells on various surfaces. They found that dead cells stuck less than living cells, supporting the 'cell adhesion model'. This study could lead to new methods for evaluating cell health and developing effective treatments.

Hysterectomy is associated with increased levels of iron in the brain

A UCLA study found that hysterectomized women have higher brain iron levels than non-hysterectomized women, comparable to men. This may explain why men develop age-related neurodegenerative diseases earlier than women. The research suggests that reducing peripheral iron levels could lower disease risk and improve brain health.

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.

Study: growing up in bad neighborhoods has a devastating impact

A new study by University of Michigan sociologists reveals that children living in disadvantaged neighborhoods face significant challenges in achieving high school graduation. The research found that black children are seven times more likely to experience long-term residence in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods.

A coating that prevents barnacles forming colonies

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have created an anti-fouling coating that prevents barnacles from forming colonies, using macrocyclic lactones to shut down their growth. The coating is environmentally friendly and can fully replace copper-based coatings in use on boats.

Grant to LSUHSC Tumor Registry creates pediatric cancer research tool

The Louisiana Tumor Registry will collaborate with state pediatric organizations and the pediatric oncology community to rapidly collect and report pediatric cancer cases. The new database will be a valuable tool for researchers and health professionals working to control cancer in children.

Natural compound helps reverse diabetes in mice

Scientists have found that nicotinamide mononucleotide, a naturally occurring compound, can reverse diabetes in mice by improving glucose tolerance and reducing cholesterol levels. The study suggests that this compound may one day be used to treat or prevent type 2 diabetes.

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.

To win hearts and minds, focus on small projects, study finds

A study published in Journal of Political Economy finds that a population-centered approach to counterinsurgency in Iraq is effective in reducing violent attacks. The study analyzed nearly $3 billion in spending on small local projects like digging wells and paving roads, which were shown to reduce violence.

Making the healthy choice the easy choice

The University of Missouri Extension has received a national grant to promote healthy diets and physical activity through two projects: Missouri Farm to Institution Project and Livable Streets. The programs aim to provide tools and support for schools, hospitals, and institutions to serve locally grown produce and educate citizens to a...

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.

Undetected strokes increase risk

Researchers found that 95% of people aged 65 have brain small vessel disease, while a quarter of healthy seniors have silent strokes. Regular exercise can delay onset of late life dementia, says Dr. Sandra Black.

A hormone that fights fat with fat

Scientists at Sanford-Burnham discovered that orexin activates calorie-burning brown fat in mice, suggesting potential for new obesity treatments. The hormone is associated with increased energy expenditure and weight loss.

UNH team wins NSF award for 'sun-to-ice' study

An interdisciplinary UNH team has been awarded a $5 million NSF grant to investigate the complex physical processes linking the dynamic Sun-Earth system. By analyzing polar ice cores for nitrate spikes, they aim to unravel the history of ancient solar activity and establish the range of extreme solar events.

Circadian clock may impact organ transplant success

A new study correlating circadian clocks with transplant success found that arteries of mice with dysfunctional internal clocks became diseased within weeks after transplantation. Transplanted blood vessels from healthy mice remained healthy in mutant mice, suggesting optimal organ function may be key to successful transplants.

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.

Same-day discharge after coronary artery stenting safe, yet not used

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that same-day discharge after coronary artery stenting is safe for low-risk patients, but not commonly practiced. The study of over 100,000 patients suggests that better risk assessment tools are needed to identify high-risk patients who require hospital overnight stay.

Culling can't save the Tasmanian devil

A new study suggests that culling Tasmanian devils cannot control the spread of facial tumour disease and may even increase its transmission. Alternative strategies such as setting up insurance populations, finding genetic resistance, and developing a vaccine are being explored to save the iconic marsupial

Yale researchers reveal 1 reason why fat cells fail

A Yale research team discovered a mechanism that enables fat cells to expand when excess metabolic energy is present, helping them store and use fatty acids efficiently. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular balance and preventing the breakdown of fat storage capacity in obese individuals.

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 shot of cortisone stops traumatic stress

A study published in European Neuropsychopharmacology found that administering a single dose of cortisone up to six hours after traumatic event reduces the likelihood of developing PTSD by 60%. This natural approach may circumvent the harm caused by other pharmaceuticals and prevent the consolidation of traumatic memories.

Calorific controversy for intensive care patients

A recent study of over 7,800 ICU patients in 33 countries found that those receiving at least two-thirds of their prescribed calorie intake had reduced mortality rates. The optimal caloric intake was approximately 80-85% of total prescribed calorie intake.

Partnership focuses on developing East Coast fever vaccine

Scientists are developing a vaccine against East Coast fever, a destructive disease in eastern and central Africa, with the potential to also protect US cattle. The collaboration aims to control tick-borne diseases, supporting international food security.

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.

Women with PCOS have family heart disease link

A new study from the University of Adelaide reveals a strong link between cardiovascular disease in both parents and the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in their daughters. Mothers with PCOS are more likely to have high blood pressure, while fathers are at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke.

Transforming medical implants

Researchers are developing biodegradable medical implants that degrade naturally in the body, promoting tissue regeneration. These implants have wide range of applications including repairing knee and hip joints, ligaments, and spinal injuries.

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.

Health and forensic databases may contribute to racial disparities

A new study finds that health and forensic DNA databases are growing to mirror racial disparities in arrest practices and incarceration rates. Underrepresented groups, such as African Americans and Latinos, face more severe disparities in forensic DNA databases compared to health DNA databases.

Low-cost electronic tablet proves worth in Indian classroom

A low-cost electronic tablet, called I-slate, has been proven to be an effective learning tool for Indian children. The device is designed to be solar-powered and cost less than $50, providing immediate feedback on correct and incorrect answers to math problems.

Higher quality diet associated with reduced risk of some birth defects

A study found that pregnant women with better maternal diet quality had a lower risk of birth defects, including neural tube defects and orofacial clefts. The research used data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study to examine whether better maternal diet quality was associated with reduced risk for selected birth defects.

'Mirage-effect' helps researchers hide objects

Researchers have developed a cloaking device that utilizes the 'mirage effect' to make objects invisible. The device uses sheets of carbon nanotubes, which can be heated to create a temperature gradient that bends light rays away from the object, making it appear invisible.

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.

Caltech engineers build smart petri dish

The ePetri system revolutionizes cell culture experiments with real-time imaging capabilities, reducing human labor time and improving accuracy. It simplifies medical diagnostic tests, drug screening, and basic research, offering a compact, lightweight microscope alternative.