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Science News Archive January 2011 - Page 8


Page 8 of 22

Study of nutrition, Alzheimer's links hampered by research approach

A new study found that traditional dietary surveys, relying on self-reported data, are inconsistent and can be influenced by memory impairment and digestive issues. Using nutrient biomarkers through blood tests, researchers aim to improve the accuracy of nutritional assessments and develop more effective therapies for cognitive health.

SourceOregon State University·DateJan 21, 2011

New melt record for Greenland ice sheet

A new study reveals that the Greenland Ice Sheet experienced its highest melting event in 2010, breaking records by up to 50 days. This unusual phenomenon was attributed to extreme temperatures and reduced snowfall during the summer months, which exposed bare ice earlier than usual.

SourceCity College of New York·DateJan 21, 2011

CT scanning aids rapid diagnosis, treatment planning for abdominal pain

A study at Massachusetts General Hospital found that CT scans significantly improved physicians' confidence in their diagnosis, changing treatment plans for almost half of patients with abdominal pain. This resulted in reduced probable hospital admissions by 20% and lower overall costs.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJan 21, 2011
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.

NFL linemen recover from back surgery, and so can you

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that 80% of NFL linemen who underwent disc surgery were able to return to play many games, suggesting that average people can also resume their active lives. After proper recovery and rehabilitation, patients can safely lift weights and engage in strenuous activities without long-term risks.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalTranslational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine·DateJan 21, 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.

Mindfulness meditation training changes brain structure in 8 weeks

A 12-week mindfulness meditation program shows measurable changes in brain regions associated with memory, self-awareness, empathy, and stress. Increased grey-matter density was observed in areas important for learning and memory, as well as structures linked to compassion and introspection.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·DateJan 21, 2011

Cell binding discovery brings hope to those with skin and heart problems

A University of Manchester scientist has discovered the mechanism behind skin cells' tight binding, which could lead to new treatments for debilitating skin diseases and heart problems. The study found that glue molecules bind specifically to similar molecules on neighboring cells, creating a resilient structure.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 21, 2011

New research from Psychological Science

Researchers investigate how the insula integrates affective and cognitive processes, and how neural systems develop with age. They also examine the role of vision in auditory and tactile integration, and find that vision plays a crucial role in developing this integration.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 21, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New Anglo-Swiss research questions impact of GM wheat on insects

A study investigated the impact of disease-resistant genetically-modified (GM) wheat lines on insect food webs. The findings show that the differences between GM and non-GM wheat strains are similar to those found between different conventional wheat strains, suggesting no ecological problems with GM wheat.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiology Letters·DateJan 21, 2011

Islands in the sky: How isolated are mountain top plant populations?

Researchers found that bee-pollinated Penstemon species have distinct genetic clusters per mountain range, while bird-pollinated species show less genetic structure across ranges. Hummingbirds facilitate gene flow among distant populations, constraining local adaptations.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateJan 21, 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.

Dow AgriSciences, MU researcher develop a way to control 'superweed'

Researchers at Dow AgroSciences and the University of Missouri have engineered soybean plants that can tolerate an alternative herbicide called 2,4-D, which may help slow the spread of superweeds. This new approach could reduce the need for multiple herbicides and lead to cost savings for farmers and consumers.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2011

Defense mechanism against bacteria and fungi deciphered

The human body produces a human antibiotic, beta-defensin 1, in remarkable quantities despite showing little activity against microbes under standard conditions. However, research discovered that this protein unfolds strong antibiotic activity against lactic acid bacteria and yeast under low-oxygen conditions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2011

Study yields better turbine spacing for large wind farms

Researchers developed a new formula to determine optimal turbine spacing for large wind farms, suggesting turbines should be spaced 15 rotor diameters apart for more cost-efficient power generation. This improvement could address underperforming projects in the US, Europe, and China.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJan 20, 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.

New math theories reveal the nature of numbers

Researchers have discovered that partition numbers behave like fractals, unlocking their infinitely repeating superstructure and developing a mathematical theory to 'see' them. A new finite formula has been devised to calculate the partitions of any number, bringing completely new ideas to the problems.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateJan 20, 2011

Identifying factors in atrazine's reduced weed control

Researchers found that approximately 44% of fields demonstrate rapid atrazine degradation activity due to recent use, soil pH, and organic matter content. Growers can predict enhanced degradation with multiple atrazine applications and high soil pH above 6.3.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 20, 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.

Insect eyes inspire improved solar cells

Researchers have created an antireflective coating based on moth eyes that improves the performance of photovoltaic modules in laboratory and field experiments. The film reduces reflections by up to 30% and increases solar cell efficiency by 5-6%.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 20, 2011

Manchester leads green chemical training push

The University of Manchester is leading a €3.7m European Union-funded project to train the next generation of scientists in green manufacturing methods for the chemical industry. The 'BIOTRAINS' programme brings together experts from academia and industry to develop safer and less-environmentally damaging industrial processes.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateJan 20, 2011

A novel function of anti-diuretic hormone vasopressin in the brain

Researchers found vasopressin in brain prevents neuronal swelling by maintaining neuron size, contrasting with kidney function. This discovery may aid in treating cerebral edema conditions, such as those caused by brain trauma or infarction.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalScience Signaling·DateJan 20, 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.

Swift survey finds 'missing' active galaxies

Astronomers using data from NASA's Swift satellite have found a largely unseen population of black-hole-powered galaxies, accounting for at least one-fifth of all active galaxies. The discoveries were made by analyzing X-ray emissions and finding that these heavily shrouded black holes are extremely faint and difficult to detect.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 20, 2011

Intrafamilial medically assisted reproduction

The ESHRE Task Force recommends evaluating IMAR requests based on four ethical principles: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. The group acknowledges benefits of IMAR but emphasizes potential psychosocial risks and importance of informed consent.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJan 20, 2011

NIST advances single photon management for quantum computers

Researchers at NIST have developed a reliable source of single photons that can be manipulated into specific quantum states, addressing one of the key challenges to creating practical quantum computers. The team's design allows for the creation of multiple individual photons with distinct wavelengths from a single source.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 20, 2011

Breastfeeding -- added protection for cancer survivors?

Research suggests that breastfeeding can partially offset negative side effects of childhood cancer treatment, including impaired growth and reproductive difficulties. Women who have survived childhood cancer should be advised to breastfeed if they can, as it may help protect them against lasting effects of cancer treatment.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateJan 20, 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.

Could oysters be used to clean up Chesapeake Bay?

A study found that oysters can effectively filter ag and urban runoff in the Chesapeake Bay, removing significant amounts of nutrients. Eight large-scale oyster farms could potentially remove one ton of nitrogen from the bay annually, providing a practical ecosystem service.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 20, 2011

Red blood cell hormone modulates the immune system

Research reveals erythropoietin (EPO) has contrasting influences on infectious and inflammatory diseases. EPO reduces the ability of the immune system to fight off systemic infections but decreases inflammation in non-infectious conditions.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateJan 20, 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.

New wave: JILA develops efficient source of terahertz radiation

Researchers at JILA have created a terahertz radiation source that is unusually efficient and less prone to damage than similar systems. The technology uses ultrafast lasers and semiconductors to produce high-intensity output, making it suitable for applications such as detecting trace gases or imaging weapons.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Letters·DateJan 20, 2011

Viral protein mimic keeps immune system quiet

Researchers at UNC Health Care discovered the Kaposi sarcoma virus produces a homolog protein that binds to cellular proteins, preventing inflammatory response and allowing the virus to evade immune system detection. The study highlights the virus's ability to lie dormant in the body over a lifetime by avoiding cell death.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience·DateJan 20, 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.

Study examines risk factors of a mass shooting

A study by Michigan State University suggests that a complex array of factors contribute to mass shootings, including peer victimization, lack of parental support, and ineffective mental health services. The research aims to reduce the issues that trigger violence and promote school connectedness among minority students.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Loss and Trauma·DateJan 20, 2011

Speaking the same language means better health care quality, Wayne State University study finds

A Wayne State University study found that patients report less confusion and better health care quality when providers speak the same language. The study aimed to address language barriers in healthcare, which disproportionately affect minority populations, and suggests low-tech solutions to improve communication.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateJan 20, 2011

WSU researchers apply fatigue model to fatal commuter air crash

Researchers analyzed the air traffic controller's schedule and found he was performing at 71% of his effectiveness due to fatigue. The study suggests using mathematical models to predict fatigue and optimize schedules, leading to reduced risk of accidents in various 24/7 operations.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateJan 20, 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.

Real-world graphene devices may have a bumpy ride

Researchers at NIST found that layering graphene on a substrate transforms its properties, creating hills and valleys that hinder electron mobility. The study uses a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) to investigate graphene's ideal properties in real-world conditions.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 20, 2011

Strong social ties benefit breast cancer patients

Breast cancer patients with a strong social support system in the first year after diagnosis have a lower risk of dying or having a cancer recurrence. Emotional support was found to be the strongest predictor of cancer recurrence, reducing the risk by 43% for women with favorable interpersonal relationships.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 20, 2011

Scientists grow human liver tissue to be used for transplantation

Researchers successfully create human liver tissue using tissue engineering, showing promise for liver cell transplantation. The new model uses resorbable scaffolds made from surgical sutures and can be used to overcome the organ shortage in patients with acute liver failure.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateJan 20, 2011
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.

Sensors to detect explosives, monitor food being developed at UH

A University of Houston chemist has developed materials for use in creating sensors that can rapidly detect explosives, tainted milk, and other hazardous substances. The sensors are based on a concept called molecular imprinted polymers and have the potential to be used in hand-held scanners for bomb detection or nerve agent detection.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalMacromolecules·DateJan 20, 2011

UC Davis study shows plants moved downhill, not up, in warming world

Researchers challenge climate change assumption that plants move uphill due to warmer temperatures. Instead, they found plants moved downhill an average of 260 feet, driven by increased precipitation. This finding has global relevance as many locations have seen increased precipitation in the past century.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateJan 20, 2011

Scripps Research scientists find measles' natural nemesis

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute found that enzyme ADAR1 slows down measles virus replication and protects cells against other respiratory viruses. The discovery provides a significant improvement in understanding measles infections, which kill around 150,000 children and adults worldwide.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2011

Contagious cancer thrives in dogs by adopting host's genes

A contagious cancer found in dogs, wolves, and coyotes can repair its genetic mutations by adopting genes from its host animal. The cancer steals tiny DNA-containing powerhouses called mitochondria from infected cells to incorporate as its own.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateJan 20, 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.

NASA prepares to launch next Earth-observing satellite mission

Glory will measure aerosols and solar energy in Earth's atmosphere to refine climate models. The satellite carries two primary instruments: Aerosol Polarimetry Sensor (APS) and Total Irradiance Monitor (TIM), which will collect data for at least three years.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 20, 2011