Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive July 2011


Page 23 of 25

A gut-full of probiotics for your neurological well-being

Researchers propose a new field of microbial endocrinology linking probiotics to neurological function. Studies show that neurochemicals produced by gut microbes can influence behavior and immune response. Probiotic intestinal microbiota may deliver beneficial effects through direct uptake from the gut.

China's competitive advantage

China's strengthening global presence is closely tied to its economic expansion, potentially securing a sustainable dominant position in the world. The country has witnessed an average annual growth rate of over 10% for nearly two decades, with its merchandise trade growing at about 14% annually.

Just add water and treat brain cancer

Researchers have developed a novel gene therapy system using nanoparticles that can be freeze-dried and stored for up to three months. The technology shows promise in treating brain cancer with high efficacy and minimal risk of complications, offering a potential alternative to traditional therapies.

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.

Study: Preventive use of one form of natural vitamin E may reduce stroke damage

A new study found that preventive use of tocotrienol, a form of natural vitamin E, reduced brain tissue damage and preserved neural connections in dogs after they suffered strokes. The research suggests that this natural supplement may be beneficial for people at high risk of stroke, such as those who have had a previous ministroke.

Integrating science and medicine in the treatment of chronic disease

A team of scientists and medical doctors proposes an integrated method using systems medicine to investigate chronic non-communicable diseases as a group. This approach aims to provide personalized holistic treatment at the primary care level, reducing healthcare costs and burden.

Termites' digestive system could act as biofuel refinery

A Purdue University study discovered a combination of enzymes in termite guts and symbionts that can efficiently break down woody biomass for biofuel production. The researchers found that the enzymes work together synergistically to release sugars from plant material, which is essential for creating biofuels like ethanol.

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.

Genomics and ethnicity research recognized with $10,000 prize

A recent genomics study has received a $10,000 prize for its work on addressing racial and ethnic stereotypes in genetic research. The study examined the 2005 Admixture Mapping project, which looked for risk factors for Multiple Sclerosis in African Americans and European Americans.

Safer skies

A new algorithm using GPS data from a tracking system can predict and prevent collisions between small aircraft. Researchers at MIT have developed the algorithm to address the challenge of false alarms while allowing for some error margin.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New laser technology could kill viruses and improve DVDs

Researchers have developed a new semiconductor nanowire laser technology that can potentially kill viruses, increase storage capacity of DVDs, and provide superfast data processing. The discovery uses p-type zinc oxide nanowires, which can offer smaller sizes, lower costs, and higher powers.

Cutting down on salt doesn't reduce your chance of dying

A systematic review found that moderate salt reductions don't lower the likelihood of dying from cardiovascular disease. While reducing salt intake does lower blood pressure, it didn't significantly reduce the risk of heart disease or mortality. Experts call for more research to find effective ways to reduce salt intake.

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.

Putting sunshine in the tank

Researchers from the University of Manchester and consortium partners are working on harnessing solar energy to produce hydrogen fuel. The technology has potential to revolutionize energy usage in the coming decades by creating clean, green fuels.

Kinetochores prefer the 'silent' DNA sections of the chromosome

The kinetochore complex assembles preferentially at the ends of chromosomes, particularly in the telomeres, due to low chromatin turnover and absence of typical heterochromatin and euchromatin proteins. This suggests that epigenetic histone marks play a crucial role in determining kinetochore formation.

High folate intake may reduce risk of colorectal cancer

A new study found that high folate intake is associated with lower risk of colorectal cancer. The strongest association was with total folate intake, which includes naturally occurring food folate and folic acid from fortified foods and dietary supplements.

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.

Moving beyond embryonic stem cells: Encouragement on the horizon

Researchers have successfully reprogrammed adult body cells into iPS cells, which can be taken directly from each patient and genetically redirected to replace ailing cells. While iPS technology holds promise, it still faces challenges and is not yet ready for widespread use.

New methods allow for insights into molecular mechanisms of regeneration

A team of researchers at the Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology has identified thousands of gene products expressed in planarian flatworms, revealing new insights into the molecular mechanisms of regeneration. This study, which combined two existing sequencing methods, expands and refines planarian research.

Vitamin D can help elderly women survive

A systematic review found that vitamin D3 supplementation increased survival in elderly women, particularly those at risk of falls and fractures. The study analyzed 50 randomized trials involving over 94,000 participants and suggested a reduced risk of mortality by approximately 6% with long-term treatment.

Couples report gender differences in relationship, sexual satisfaction over time

A study of over 1,000 couples from the US, Brazil, Germany, Japan, and Spain found that men reported higher relationship happiness and women reported higher sexual satisfaction with age. Frequent kissing and cuddling predicted happiness in men, while higher sexual functioning and more frequent sex were linked to sexual satisfaction for...

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.

Folate intake may reduce colorectal cancer risk

A large cohort study found that high folate intake was associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. The study also distinguished between natural and synthetic forms of folate and found no increased risk among participants consuming high levels of folate through supplements or fortification.

More than 1 in 10 chance of colder UK winters

New research predicts that UK winters will become colder due to low solar activity, with a 10% chance of returning to Maunder minimum conditions within 50 years. This could lead to an average winter temperature below 2.5°C, with implications for national infrastructure planning.

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that massage therapy is more effective than usual medical interventions for improving pain and function in patients with chronic low back pain. The researchers also suggest that relaxation massage may have a slight advantage over structural massage due to its wider availability.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Patients with eating disorders have an elevated rate of death

A meta-analysis of previous studies found that patients with eating disorders have an elevated rate of death, especially those with anorexia nervosa. The study also highlighted the seriousness of bulimia nervosa and disordered eating not otherwise specified, which are often overlooked due to limited published data.

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.

Factors affecting obstetric outcomes of IVF singletons

Researchers investigated predictors of adverse outcomes in IVF singletons, finding associations with preterm birth, small for gestational age, and placenta previa. Maternal smoking, BMI, and years of infertility were linked to increased risks of these conditions.

Exposure to anti-depressants in pregnancy may increase autism risk

A Kaiser Permanente study found that exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in early pregnancy may modestly increase the risk of autism spectrum disorders. Researchers reported a two-fold increased risk of ASD associated with maternal treatment with SSRI anti-depressants during the year before delivery.

The forces of attraction: How cells change direction

A team of researchers developed a novel technique to study how cells respond to changing concentrations of chemoattractants. The study reveals two ways cells can reorient in response to changes, and provides insights into the underlying signaling pathways that control chemotaxis. The research has clinical significance for embryonic dev...

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.

Mutant flies shed light on inherited intellectual disability

Researchers studying mutant fruit flies with dNab2 mutations have found a link to intellectual disability (ID) in humans, particularly those affected by ZC3H14 gene mutations. The study suggests that the protein's role in regulating RNA length may be critical for brain cell function and learning.

Antarctic krill help to fertilize Southern Ocean with iron

A new study reveals that Antarctic krill feed on iron-rich fragments from the sea floor, releasing it into the water and stimulating phytoplankton growth. This process enhances the ocean's natural storage of carbon dioxide, with implications for managing commercial krill fisheries.

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.

Scripps Research scientists solve mystery of nerve disease genes

Researchers discovered that all GARS mutations causing CMT type 2D lead to a structural opening in the protein, creating space for other proteins to bind and cause havoc. This finding may lead to the development of drugs targeting this region, offering new therapeutic avenues for the disease.

Massage eases low back pain in randomized controlled trial

A randomized controlled trial found that both structural and relaxation massage types helped alleviate chronic low back pain and improve function. Massage patients experienced significant reductions in pain, improved functioning, and increased activity compared to those with usual care.

New study on childbearing and education offers surprising findings

A recent study by Joel E. Cohen and colleagues found that childbearing impeded education more than education reduced childbearing among Norwegian women. The researchers followed all women born in Norway in 1964 through the end of their childbearing, using year-by-year data on education, enrollment, and reproduction.

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.

Chantix associated with 72 percent increased risk of serious CV events

A new study found that varenicline, marketed as Chantix, significantly increases the risk of hospitalization due to serious cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and arrhythmias. The study, published in CMAJ, suggests that clinicians should carefully weigh the benefits against the risks.

Crucial role for molecule in muscle development

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that a specific microRNA, miR-206, plays a pivotal role in normal muscle development during embryonic stages. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the maintenance and regeneration of healthy muscle tissue, particularly in diseases such as muscular dystrophy and cancer.

Researchers push the boundary with high carbon emission scenarios

US and Swiss researchers created two high-carbon emission scenarios to test the boundaries of current computer simulation programs. The AllCoal scenario projected a complete loss of summer Arctic sea ice by 2070 and significant warming above the IPCC's entire range of scenarios.

Embedding microchips in ornamental shrubs

Researchers have developed a novel method to embed microchips in ornamental shrubs, allowing for efficient tracking and monitoring. The new technique has been successfully tested on rose cultivars, demonstrating its potential for improving plant health and productivity.

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.

Long term prognosis for life birth after RM

Researchers analyzed records of 987 women with recurrent miscarriages to find long-term prognosis for live birth. The study found that 66.7% of women achieved a live birth within five years and 71.1% within 15 years after referral.

Gene secrets of the reef revealed

Researchers from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies and the Australian Genome Research Facility have sequenced the genome of the staghorn coral, a major threat to the Great Barrier Reef. The study provides insights into coral biology, including responses to climate change and ocean acidification.

Balance tips toward environment as heritability ebbs in autism?

A large twin study found that shared environment influences autism susceptibility more than previously thought, accounting for 55% of strict autism cases. Genetic heritability accounted for 37%, with moderate genetic and environmental contributions observed in spectrum disorders.

Body's natural marijuana-like chemicals make fatty foods hard to resist

Researchers discovered that when rats tasted fatty foods, cells in their upper gut produced endocannabinoids, triggering a surge in cell signaling that prompts overeating. The study suggests that obstructing endocannabinoid activity may curb this tendency, offering new potential treatments for obesity and related diseases.

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.

Most of world's 'missing species' live in known hotspots

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that most of the world's undiscovered species reside in regions already identified as conservation priorities. This suggests recent conservation efforts have been effective and should reduce uncertainty over global conservation priorities.

Urban children are healthier commuters than rural teens

A new study reveals that urban children are more likely to walk or cycle to school than their rural counterparts. The research, published in Pediatrics, found that factors such as parental influence and social connections play a significant role in shaping children's transportation choices.

Face science meets robot science

Scientists from Queen Mary University of London and UCL are investigating whether robots can learn to recognize faces like humans do. This research aims to develop software that allows robots to interact with humans in a natural way, understanding facial expressions and emotions.