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Science News Archive February 2011 - Page 9


Page 9 of 25
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

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
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.

Competing risks analysis highlights new targets in preventing ESRD and death of diabetics

Researchers analyzed data from 592 patients with type 1 diabetes and macroalbuminuria to identify predictors of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and pre-ESRD mortality. The study found that poor glycemic control increases ESRD risk but not pre-ESRD mortality, while improved lipid management affects both outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 18, 2011

Doing good with operations research

Karen Smilowitz and her team are applying operations research techniques to promote welfare and equity through efficient delivery of goods and services. They have worked with organizations such as the Mobile C.A.R.E. Foundation to develop models for matching donors and recipients, as well as designing collection and delivery routes.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 18, 2011

Efficacy of tuberculosis vaccine enhanced

Researchers at VIB and Ghent University have developed a new tuberculosis vaccine that affords better protection against the disease by triggering an immune reaction in the body. The new vaccine works differently from existing vaccines and acquires its extra protective value by emitting signals that provoke inflammation.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalMolecular Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2011

Multiple approaches necessary to tackle world's food problems

To solve the world's food problems, agriculture needs to use resources more efficiently by integrating various sectors and adopting innovative methods. Researchers are exploring ways to grow crops in areas that were previously unused, such as using wastewater to irrigate and fertilize fruit and vegetables.

SourcePenn State·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.

Stretching before a run does not prevent injury

A study of over 2,700 runners found that stretching before running neither prevents nor causes injury. However, runners who normally stretch and suddenly stop or switch routines are more likely to experience injuries, particularly groin pulls, foot/ankle injuries, and knee injuries.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 18, 2011

'Telecoupling' explains why it's a small (and fast) world, after all

The symposium explores the shrinking distance between humans and nature, with increased trade and technological advancements having significant consequences for environmental sustainability. World-renowned experts will present on the topic of telecoupling, highlighting new dynamics in human-nature interactions.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 18, 2011

Brain function linked to birth size in groundbreaking new study

A new study reveals that children born small with large placentas exhibit more activity on the right side of their brains, linked to mood disorders like depression. This finding suggests that adverse environments during pregnancy can cause long-term changes in brain function.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2011
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.

CeBIT 2011: Preparing for the unexpected

Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute are developing multi-hazard and multi-channel technologies to create trend-setting warning systems. The PRONTO project uses automatic information collection and assessment to support rescue services in crisis situations.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateFeb 18, 2011

New model for probing antidepressant actions

A new mouse model has been developed to study selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and their effects on the brain. The model shows that SSRIs target a specific protein in the brain, leading to improved treatment options for depression and potentially shedding light on addiction.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2011

Unraveling how prion proteins move alon axons in the brain

A study published in Cell identified the motors driving non-infectious prion proteins up and down long neuronal transport pathways. The research sheds light on how these proteins interact with infectious forms to cause disease, potentially aiding therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateFeb 17, 2011
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.

Male fertility is in the bones

Researchers found that osteocalcin produced in bone enhances testosterone production in testes, supporting sperm survival. This discovery links the skeleton to male fertility and may provide insights into unexplained infertility cases.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateFeb 17, 2011

Healthy lifestyle, positive attitude can help improve patient outcomes

Researchers found that patients who smoke, misuse alcohol, have poor blood sugar control, or have a negative mindset prior to surgery are more likely to experience post-operative complications. Quitting smoking and maintaining good lifestyle habits can significantly reduce these risks.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 17, 2011

Cigarette smoking increases production of mucus in patients with bronchitis

Researchers found that cigarette smoke suppresses protein Bik, leading to sustained mucus cell growth and airway obstruction. The study's findings suggest a potential therapeutic target for reducing excess mucus secretion in chronic bronchitis patients.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 17, 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.

Residual dipolar couplings unveil structure of small molecules

Researchers unveil structure of small molecules by analyzing residual dipolar couplings in partially aligned samples. This new approach provides valuable structural information, even when traditional methods fail.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 17, 2011

Identification of glaucoma gene brightens view for future therapies

A team of investigators has identified a new candidate gene for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), the most common form of eye disorder. The gene, ADAMTS10, is involved in processing extracellular matrix and may play a role in regulating aqueous humor outflow.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 17, 2011

Scientists uncover surprising features of bear hibernation

Black bears experience large decreases in metabolism during hibernation, with metabolic rates remaining suppressed for several weeks after emergence. This finding has significant implications for potential applications in emergency medicine, such as reducing metabolic demand in patients experiencing stroke or trauma.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScience·DateFeb 17, 2011

Swedish discovery could lead to new stroke therapy

Researchers at Lund University have found a way to activate the sigma-1 receptor protein, which plays a key role in brain recovery after a stroke. This discovery could lead to new and more effective treatments for stroke patients.

SourceLund University·JournalBrain·DateFeb 17, 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.

Catching space weather in the act

The IBEX spacecraft has taken unprecedented photos of the plasma sheet, a complex region surrounding Earth's magnetic field. The images show a plasmoid being ejected into space, providing direct visual evidence of space weather events that can cause auroras and radiation failures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 17, 2011

Study suggests statins may prevent diabetic-related blindness

Researchers found that statin drugs can prevent free radicals from killing nerves important to maintaining vision in people with diabetes. The study suggests that oral treatment with atorvastatin can restore proper levels of nerve growth factor and preserve neurons in the retina.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalDiabetologia·DateFeb 17, 2011

NASA infrared satellite data see an intensifying Tropical Storm Dianne

NASA's Aqua satellite reveals Tropical Storm Dianne is getting organized, with bands of thunderstorms wrapping into the center indicating strengthening. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects Dianne to intensify and move south on Feb. 18 while remaining well west of the Australian coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 17, 2011

Choose less contaminating products thanks to eco-labeling

A researcher has developed an eco-labeling system to provide environmental information on product carbon footprints, enabling consumers to make informed choices. The system, based on a method composed of financial accounts, estimates the ecological and carbon footprint of goods and services throughout their life cycle.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalThe International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment·DateFeb 17, 2011

Children in public housing play outdoors more

Researchers discovered that young children living in public housing spend more time playing outdoors than their peers, with a significant link to lower body mass indexes (BMIs). Mothers' perceptions of neighborhood environments also played a key role in predicting children's outdoor playtime and TV watching habits.

SourceRice University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2011
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.

Ben-Gurion U. research leads to improved calcium supplement derived from crustacean shells

A team of BGU researchers has created a unique calcium supplement form that provides higher biological absorption and retention rates. The supplement, derived from unstable calcium carbonate, showed significant benefits in laboratory animals, with improved blood and bone absorption rates.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 17, 2011

Magma power for geothermal energy?

A team of scientists drilling near an Icelandic volcano hit magma in 2009, resulting in a potentially game-changing discovery for geothermal energy. The team estimated that the steam generated from the magma could power up to 25,000 homes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGeology·DateFeb 17, 2011

Checklist cuts lethal ventilator-associated lung infections

A simple checklist designed by Johns Hopkins researchers significantly reduces ventilator-associated pneumonia cases by over 70% in Michigan hospitals. The intervention, combined with education and a culture of patient safety, saves tens of thousands of lives and millions of dollars in healthcare costs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateFeb 17, 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.

Carnegie Mellon's Matyjaszewski to receive Wolf Prize in Chemistry

Krzysztof Matyjaszewski will be recognized for his groundbreaking research in synthesis of organic materials and controlled radical polymerization. His work has led to the development of innovative materials with tailored functionalities, enabling applications in energy, environment, and biomedicine.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateFeb 17, 2011