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Science News Archive January 2011 - Page 13


Page 13 of 22

Storms, soccer matches hidden in seismometer noise

Researchers have found that seismic noise from storms in the South Atlantic Ocean and 'footquakes' from soccer matches can be detected by broadband seismometers. The discovery was made using cross-correlation analysis, which reveals a signal that varies with storm intensity.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateJan 15, 2011

Columbia University uses technological innovation to study bone structure

A study by Columbia University researchers found that pre-menopausal Chinese-American women have greater bone strength than Caucasian women due to a higher plate-to-rod ratio in trabecular bone. The study used advanced 3-D imaging analysis technique Individual Trabeculae Segmentation (ITS) to analyze bone microstructure.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateJan 15, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

More intensive methods needed to identify TB in HIV-prone populations

Researchers studied TB detection methods in western Kenya and found that passive case finding is inadequate due to the high prevalence of HIV. Intensive methods like sputum culture are needed to diagnose TB earlier and more accurately, especially among men and those with prior TB treatment.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 14, 2011

Mandatory menu labeling didn't change behavior at 1 fast food chain

A study by Duke University found that mandatory menu labeling at Taco Time locations in King County, Washington, had no effect on consumer behavior. The study suggests that detailed nutritional information may not be enough to influence the obesity epidemic unless combined with other interventions.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 14, 2011

Warming climate means red deer rutting season arrives early

A recent study found that red deer on the Isle of Rum are rutting earlier in the year, with their calving seasons now up to two weeks earlier than 30 years ago. This change is attributed to warmer spring and summer temperatures, providing rare evidence of climate change's impact on large mammals.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 14, 2011
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.

Researchers discover way to halt lung inflammation in animal models

Researchers have identified a potential treatment for acute lung injury (ALI) and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by switching the state of macrophages to a reparative state. This approach aims to stop ongoing inflammation and improve lung repair capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 14, 2011

Improved measurements of sun to advance understanding of climate change

Researchers report a lower value of total solar irradiance than previously measured, demonstrating improved accuracy and consistency. The new findings will help resolve the question of how significant a contributor solar fluctuations are to global warming.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 14, 2011

Enhanced early childhood education pays long-term dividends in better health

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that intensive early education programs for low-income children can bring improved health and healthier behaviors in early adulthood. The randomized control trial, which enrolled 111 infants from the 1970s to age 21, showed significant benefits in health measure...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 14, 2011

Dramatic ocean circulation changes revealed

New research suggests ocean circulation changes may have caused severe cold intervals in Europe, with the Atlantic ocean capable of radical changes on short timescales. The study found that deep water formation switched off and on repeatedly, leading to warming and cooling centuries at a time.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 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.

Bioactive compounds in berries can reduce high blood pressure

Bioactive compounds in berries, particularly anthocyanins found in blueberries, have been shown to reduce the risk of high blood pressure. Consuming at least one serving of blueberries per week can lower the risk by 10% and may contribute to hypertension prevention.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 14, 2011

University of Houston professor named 2010 AAAS Fellow

Richard C. Willson, a professor at the University of Houston, has been recognized as a 2010 Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his work in biomolecular recognition sciences and technology development. The honor is a testament to Willson's research contributions.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJan 14, 2011

NASA's TRMM Satellite sees Zelia born of System 94P

Tropical Storm Zelia forms in the South Pacific after strengthening from System 94P; NASA's TRMM satellite captures heavy rainfall on its northwestern and southwestern sides. The storm is expected to continue moving southeastward, strengthen into a cyclone, and impact New Caledonia with winds and rains.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 14, 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.

UCSF study identifies chemicals in pregnant women

A new study from UCSF found that virtually all pregnant women in the US are exposed to multiple chemicals, including some banned since the 1970s. The study identified over 163 chemicals, with many linked to adverse health outcomes such as preterm birth and childhood morbidity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJan 14, 2011

Certain genetic profiles increase risk of coronary artery disease while others uniquely increase risk of heart attacks in those with coronary disease; blood group O offers protection

A new study identifies genetic variants associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart attacks. The researchers found that certain genetic profiles increase the risk of CAD and heart attacks in individuals with CAD, while blood group O offers protection against heart attacks.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 14, 2011

Heavy metals and pesticides threaten a Huelva wetland

The Estero de Domingo Rubio wetland is polluted with heavy metals and pesticides, affecting its water quality and ecosystem. The study highlights the need for greater control over agrochemicals and industrial waste to prevent contamination.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJan 14, 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.

Lady health workers in Pakistan reduce newborn deaths and stillbirths

In Pakistan, community health workers known as Lady Health Workers (LHWs) reduced stillbirths by 21% and newborn deaths by 15%, despite low coverage. The LHWs delivered a package of preventive and promotive maternal and newborn care interventions, including antenatal care promotion and clean delivery kits.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 14, 2011

Measles virus plays role in Paget's disease of bone, Pitt-led team says

A team of researchers led by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has confirmed that a gene from the measles virus plays a key role in the development of Paget's disease of bone. The study found that osteoclasts in affected patients express a viral protein, leading to characteristic bone lesions and increased risk of fracture.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 14, 2011

Speeding up E. coli detection

A simple method for tracking E. coli uses laser imaging to detect and monitor microbe contamination in water, potentially reducing waterborne disease outbreaks. The technique improves on existing methods by providing vital information on microbial source tracking.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computational Biology and Drug Design·DateJan 14, 2011

Study finds fisheries management makes coral reefs grow faster

A study by Wildlife Conservation Society and University of California at Santa Cruz found that overfished reef systems have fewer sea urchins, leading to higher coral growth rates and more structure. Reefs with complete fish communities outperform those without predators, which allows coralline algae to thrive.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalEcology·DateJan 14, 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.

Blood pressure control system found in kidney's structural units

Scientists at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio have discovered that sodium handling in the distal nephron is controlled by a local regulatory system. This system helps set blood pressure and its dysfunction leads to hypertension.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 14, 2011

What is life? New answers to an age-old question in astrobiology

A collection of essays in Astrobiology presents various perspectives on defining life, including a minimal chemical life model and the importance of feedback loops. The authors propose new ideas and theories to help determine what is and is not considered living.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAstrobiology·DateJan 13, 2011
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.

Popular sleep medicine puts older adults at risk for falls, cognitive impairment

A study by the University of Colorado at Boulder found that older adults taking zolpidem are significantly more likely to experience balance problems and cognitive impairments. Younger adults also showed significant cognitive impacts from sleep inertia, highlighting a need for further research on this topic.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 13, 2011

Post-heart attack, patients with lower kidney function not taking prescribed meds

A recent heart attack study found that patients with lower kidney function have poor medication adherence, with only 50-60% of prescribed medications taken over three years. This highlights the need for targeted strategies to improve medication adherence in this high-risk population.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 13, 2011

When continents formed

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a new methodology for calculating model ages of continental crust formation. This approach uses the isotope composition of newly formed crust to estimate age, resulting in significantly younger and more consistent dates than previous methods based on mantle isotopes.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·DateJan 13, 2011
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.

Chandra images torrent of star formation

M82's rapid star formation is believed to have been triggered by a close encounter with neighboring galaxy M81. The Chandra image reveals a unique opportunity to study conditions similar to those of the early universe and the consequences of supernovas in starburst galaxies.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·DateJan 13, 2011

ABTA names Ryan Salinas outstanding '10 summer medical student fellow

Ryan Salinas, a 2nd-year medical student at UCSF, received the Lucien Rubenstein Award for his outstanding research on histone demathylase JMJD3 as a potential treatment target for glioblastoma. The American Brain Tumor Association selected Salinas from a group of 10 Medical Student Summer Fellows.

SourceAmerican Brain Tumor Association·DateJan 13, 2011

New guidelines for preventing falls in the elderly include: start tai chi, cut-back on meds

The American Geriatrics Society and British Geriatric Society's updated guidelines for preventing falls in older adults emphasize the importance of exercise, such as tai chi or physical therapy, to reduce fall risk. The guidelines also recommend environmental adaptations, medication reduction, and cataract surgery where necessary.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 13, 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.

Reducing HIV risk of breastfeeding with 3-drug prophylaxis

A randomized controlled trial found that a triple-drug regimen during pregnancy and breastfeeding significantly reduces HIV transmission to infants. The study's findings support the use of long-term treatment for women with low CD4 cell counts and ARV prophylaxis for all breastfeeding mothers.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 13, 2011

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may be more vulnerable to BPA

A recent study found higher BPA levels in women with PCOS compared to controls, and an association between BPA and increased testosterone levels. Researchers suggest that BPA may exacerbate hormonal imbalances in women with PCOS.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 13, 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.

Driving simulators help older adults improve their road skills

A new study suggests that driving simulators can be an effective way to improve the driving skills of older adults. The researchers found that coaching and feedback through a driving simulator improved driving abilities in older drivers. This method may help keep older drivers on the road longer while maintaining safety.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJan 13, 2011

Home dialysis effective for kidney patients after transplant fails

A new study found that patients who return to dialysis after a kidney transplant failure can survive just as well on home dialysis as hospital dialysis. However, only 18% of these patients choose the home version due to concerns and limited education about its benefits.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 13, 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.

Aerosols transmit prions to mice, causing disease

Researchers found that prion-tainted aerosols can induce disease in mice by transferring to the brain and colonizing it. The study suggests airborne transmission of prions may be a risk, prompting potential regulations to minimize infection risks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 13, 2011

Liverpool receives $1.5M to tackle disease in Africa

A University of Liverpool-led consortium will analyse Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 1, a major cause of invasive pneumococcal disease in Africa. The project aims to develop a protein-based vaccine enhancing or replacing current Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJan 13, 2011

The microbes in our gut regulate genes that control obesity and inflammation

A deficiency in Toll-like receptor 2 leads to changes in gut bacteria resembling those of lean animals, suggesting a new way to manage weight and intestinal problems. This discovery builds on previous research demonstrating the protective effect of TLR2 deficiency against obesity.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 13, 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.

Earth's hot past could be prologue to future climate

A new analysis suggests that future global temperatures may exceed projections by a factor of two, with potentially catastrophic consequences. The study, led by NCAR scientist Jeffrey Kiehl, warns that continued high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere could lead to a repeat of Earth's hot past.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalScience·DateJan 13, 2011

The best way to measure dark energy just got better

A new study led by Ryan Foley has found a way to correct for small variations in the appearance of Type Ia supernovae, making them better standard candles. This discovery allows cosmologists to improve their data analysis and make more accurate measurements of dark energy.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateJan 13, 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.

Stanford researcher uses living cells to create 'biotic' video games

Ingmar Riedel-Kruse's lab group developed video games where players influence the behavior of living microorganisms in real-time. These biotic games aim to educate people about basic biological processes and promote interest in biology, with potential applications in crowd-sourced research.

SourceStanford University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJan 13, 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.