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Science News Archive January 2011 - Page 10


Page 10 of 22

Researchers discover giant crayfish species right under their noses

Researchers have discovered a new species of giant crayfish, Barbicambarus simmonsi, in Tennessee and Alabama, which is at least twice the size of its closest relative. The species was found under rocks in a creek and has distinctive 'bearded' antennae with setae that enhance sensory function.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the Biological Society of Washington·DateJan 19, 2011

Biological clock ticks slower for female birds who choose good mates

A recent study published in Oikos found that female birds' fertility declines less quickly when they mate with healthier, more experienced males who became first-time fathers at a younger age. This suggests that male partners play a role in how fast females pass their prime.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalOikos·DateJan 19, 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.

Stroke rate rises for patients with HIV infection

Researchers found a significant rise in stroke diagnoses among HIV-infected patients between 1997 and 2006, with ischemic strokes being the primary cause. The study suggests that HAART therapy may be linked to an increased risk of stroke due to metabolic complications, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeurology·DateJan 19, 2011

Internet-based rehab is a viable treatment option following knee surgery

A new study published in JBJS shows that internet-based postoperative rehabilitation (telerehabilitation) is a viable treatment option for patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. Telerehabilitation allows patients to receive rehab services from the comfort of their own homes, achieving outcomes comparable to traditional rehab.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJan 19, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MU research on teacher retirement systems timely for reform efforts

Researchers at the University of Missouri are calling for reform of teacher retirement benefit systems due to huge unfunded pension liabilities. The systems have important effects on school staffing and finance, with some estimates suggesting unfunded liabilities of one trillion dollars or more.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEducation Finance and Policy·DateJan 19, 2011

Molecular battle in cancer cells offers clues for treatment

Researchers discovered that IDH mutation leads to a metabolic battle between molecules ?-KG and 2-HG, contributing to cancer development. Bolstering ?-KG production could offer a new treatment option for patients with the mutation, which affects 75% of people with low-grade brain tumors and 20% of those with acute myeloid leukemia.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 19, 2011

Man, volcanoes and the sun have influenced Europe's climate over recent centuries

A recent study suggests that European seasonal temperatures have been affected by volcanic eruptions, solar activity, and greenhouse gas emissions since the 17th century. The research team used climate models and historical data to reconstruct past climate scenarios, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of climate change.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 19, 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.

New European collaboration on cancer research

The EurocanPlatform project aims to find more effective ways to prevent, detect and treat cancer. By combining resources and expertise, researchers hope to identify patients at risk for cancer and adapt therapies to individual circumstances.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateJan 19, 2011

Creating simplicity: How music fools the ear

Researchers used music compression algorithms to study brain response to complex and simple sounds. They found that enduring musical masterpieces tend to have high compressibility, suggesting our brains respond to simple patterns. This theory may lead composers to create music with simpler data structures for greater appeal.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Research Notes·DateJan 19, 2011

Roundworm unlocks pancreatic cancer pathway

A team of researchers has made a discovery about how the Ras oncogene chooses a signaling pathway and its consequences in cellular development, a key issue in cancer. The study used a common roundworm, C. elegans, to identify the critical events leading to pancreatic cancer.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 19, 2011

Toward controlling fungus that caused Irish potato famine

Researchers have isolated a key hormone that allows the Phytophthora fungi to reproduce and developed a synthetic version of this hormone. This breakthrough could lead to an effective method to combat this ancient scourge, which has caused devastating potato crop failures and food shortages globally.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalOrganic Letters·DateJan 19, 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.

Study finds celiac patients can eat hydrolyzed wheat flour

Researchers found that hydrolyzed wheat flour baked goods are not toxic to celiac disease patients, with some even developing subtotal atrophy without clinical complaints. The study suggests further research on therapies to reduce gluten toxicity beyond the standard gluten-free diet.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 19, 2011

A second language gives toddlers an edge

Bilingual toddlers as young as 24 months exhibit comparable vocabulary in both languages and show cognitive advantages over unilingual peers. This early bilingual advantage is likely due to infants' experience with two languages, providing a competitive edge in executive functioning.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJan 19, 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.

Mathematical model explains how complex societies emerge, collapse

A new mathematical model explores the emergence and collapse of complex societies via warfare, revealing that stability is strongly promoted by wealth, power, and well-defined succession mechanisms. The model also predicts 'chiefly cycles' of rapid growth and collapse due to warfare, which can occur without environmental disturbances.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·DateJan 19, 2011

Small molecules may prevent ebola infection

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a family of small molecules that bind to the Ebola virus's outer protein coat and inhibit its entry into human cells. The findings demonstrate a potential breakthrough in preventing Ebola infection, with further studies planned to confirm efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJan 19, 2011

How much sex is enough?

Research published in BMC Evolutionary Biology shows that polygamous mice produce more fertile offspring due to increased sperm competitiveness. After 12 generations of competitive selection, polygamous males outperformed monogamous males in both paternity and fertility rates.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJan 19, 2011

Coronary imaging enhances ability to identify plaques likely to cause future heart disease

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals that most untreated plaques causing unexpected heart attacks have large plaque burdens or small lumen areas, making them detectable by grayscale IVUS. The use of combination imaging modalities improves the ability to predict future adverse events.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 19, 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.

Unfolding pathogenesis in Parkinson's

A recent study suggests that damaged alpha-synuclein proteins can spread between cells in a 'prion-like' manner, contributing to Parkinson's disease pathogenesis. This cell-to-cell transfer mechanism may play a significant role in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 19, 2011

Scripps Research team creates new synthetic compound with HIV-fighting promise

The Scripps Research Institute team created a library of 50 synthetic compounds from natural Japanese-plant compounds, including one that shows great promise in inhibiting HIV replication and fighting inflammation. The compound has been identified as a promising lead for potential use as an HIV-fighting drug.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2011

Sharply focused on neurons, light controls a worm's behavior

Researchers developed an optogenetic device to control the behavior of Caenorhabditis elegans worms using pulses of blue and green light. They successfully activated or inactivated specific neurons or muscle cells, turning the worm into a virtual biorobot.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 18, 2011
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Are sharks color blind?

Sharks lack color vision due to having only one type of long-wavelength-sensitive cone cell in their retina. This finding may help prevent shark attacks and improve fishing gear design.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateJan 18, 2011

Self-control and choices: Why we take the easy path after exerting ourselves

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that people who feel depleted from exerting self-control tend to pass up the most desirable choices and opt for options with lower-level features. This is known as the 'easy path effect', where individuals prioritize short-term rewards over long-term benefits.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 18, 2011

Wiley celebrates a decade of publishing online books

Wiley's Online Books program has evolved over the past decade, providing customers with a wide range of access and purchase options. With over 10,000 online books available, the platform offers unparalleled convenience for researchers, academics, and professionals worldwide.

SourceWiley·DateJan 18, 2011

JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 18, 2011

Research highlights the key role of estrogen signaling in maintaining energy balance, as well as the propagation of α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease. Additionally, a new immune cell activator has been identified to protect mice from tumors through an IFN-gamma-independent mechanism.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 18, 2011

Weizmann Institute scientists discover: Antioxidants cause fertility problems in females

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute discovered that antioxidants can cause a decrease in ovulation levels in female mice, potentially disrupting fertility. The study suggests that reactive oxygen species play a crucial role in the ovulation process and may be affected by antioxidant supplementation.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 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.

Why do the Abbotts wait, while the Zimmermans rush to buy?

A recent study by Kurt A. Carlson and Jacqueline M. Conard discovered that the first letter of one's childhood surname influences consumer behavior, with individuals having late alphabet surnames responding faster to purchasing opportunities, whereas those with early alphabet surnames tend to wait in line.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 18, 2011

When you can't walk fast enough to cross busy streets

People with knee osteoarthritis are more likely to walk fast enough if they lead physically active lives, according to new research. The study found that even a small increase in activity is related to better walking function.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 18, 2011

Scientists bring cancer cells back under control

Researchers at the University of Nottingham successfully reactivated tumour suppressor genes in breast cancer cells by treating them with Axolotl oocyte extract, stopping cancerous growth after 60 days. This breakthrough discovery holds promise for developing a powerful new technology platform for the treatment of various cancers.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalMolecular Cancer·DateJan 18, 2011

Antioxidants may improve chances of conceiving in male subfertility

A systematic review found that antioxidant supplements may benefit couples trying to conceive naturally, particularly when the male partner takes antioxidants. The review of 34 trials involving over 2,800 couples suggests a higher likelihood of pregnancy or live birth when antioxidants are used.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJan 18, 2011

Critique 029: What should we advise about alcohol consumption? A debate amongst scientists

A letter in Intern Emerg Med sparked a debate among scientists about advising the public on safe drinking levels. While some argue that people can't distinguish between low and high consumption, others contend that moderate drinking may reduce stroke risk. Experts emphasize the need for balanced scientific data and personalized advice.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalInternal and Emergency Medicine·DateJan 18, 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.

Statins: Benefits questionable in low-risk patients

A new Cochrane Systematic Review questions the benefits of statins in people with no previous history of heart disease. Statin use should be prescribed with caution in those at low risk of cardiovascular disease, as the absolute numbers of people who benefit are lower.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJan 18, 2011

Don't understand what the product is? Ask a woman

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research shows that women outperform men in figuring out innovative products. Women are able to accurately identify unusual products when exposed to ads alongside similar or related items, but struggle to remember specific product claims.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 18, 2011

Why do our emotions get in the way of rational decisions about safety products?

A new study explores how emotions hinder safety product decisions, finding that people reject imperfectly safe options due to feelings of betrayal. Providing positive images and presenting information in a graphic format can help consumers make safer choices. Influencing others' choices can also encourage safer decisions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 18, 2011

Shrinking snow and ice cover intensify global warming

New research from the University of Michigan reveals that decreasing snow and ice cover in the Northern Hemisphere has exacerbated global warming, with a stronger positive feedback mechanism than initially predicted. The study shows that the cryospheric albedo feedback is almost twice as strong as models have simulated, contributing to...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 18, 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.

Keeping your digital secrets safe

A new research project at Tel Aviv University has developed a security application called Locaccino to fine-tune privacy settings based on user information and behavior. The app allows users to track their friends' physical location, but also provides flexibility in sharing personal data online.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateJan 18, 2011

Mother's stem cells likely key to treating genetic disease before birth

Researchers at UCSF have discovered that a mother's immune response prevents fetal acceptance of transplanted blood stem cells, but their own stem cells can be used to overcome this issue. The study suggests that using maternal stem cells could lead to successful treatment of genetic diseases before birth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 18, 2011

Stress, anxiety both boon and bane to brain

A new study reveals that stress and anxiety enhance the brain's detection of external stimuli, but disrupt complex thinking and executive functions. The findings suggest that chronic stress can create a paradox in experimental psychology, favoring quick reflexive actions over strategic decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateJan 18, 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.

Rock concert aids cancer research

A rock concert raised £30,000 for cancer research by Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), supporting Dr. Alison Curnow's clinical PDT research team at the Peninsula Medical School and Royal Cornwall Hospital. The funding will enable them to continue their work on this relatively unknown light-activated anti-cancer drug therapy.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·DateJan 18, 2011

Adolescents with severe mental disorders have never received treatment

A recent study found that approximately one-third of adolescents with any mental disorder received services for their illness, while only half of those with severely impairing mental disorders had ever received mental health treatment. The study highlights the urgent need to address barriers to recognizing and treating mental health co...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 18, 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.

A different path to fat-related heart disease

Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute have discovered a genetic mechanism that causes lipotoxic cardiomyopathy independently of a diet high in fat. The study found that an imbalance in cellular fats can lead to heart problems, and targeting the SREBP protein may help prevent these issues.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 18, 2011

New molecule could save brain cells from neurodegeneration, stroke

Researchers at UNC Health Care have discovered a molecule, microRNA-29, that can make brain cells resistant to programmed cell death or apoptosis. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative illnesses like Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 18, 2011

Use of antidepressant associated with reduction in menopausal hot flashes

A study published in JAMA Network found that escitalopram significantly reduced the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes in healthy women. The medication was associated with a 47% decrease in hot flash frequency compared to placebo, making it a nonhormonal option for treating menopausal hot flashes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 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.

NSAID receptor responsible for olive oil's 'cough' and more

Researchers identify TRPA1 receptor as the culprit behind olive oil's unique sensory irritation and cough sensation. The receptor is also activated by ibuprofen, an over-the-counter NSAID, revealing a potential mechanism for the anti-inflammatory compound's action.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·DateJan 18, 2011