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Science News Archive June 2011


Page 4 of 28

Gene flow may help plants adapt to climate change

A study on gene flow in Sierra Nevada cutleaved monkeyflower found that mixing genes from warmer and cooler elevations improves the plant's ability to thrive in a changing environment. This technique can be used to augment genetic resources for imperiled populations, enabling them to better adapt to climate change.

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.

Does grilling kill E. coli O157:H7?

Researchers applied E. coli O157:H7 to subprimals and found that only 3-4% of the bacteria were transported to the center of the meat after being tenderized. Proper cooking on a commercial gas grill eliminated the microbe, with internal temperatures of 120F, 130F, or 140F killing all remaining cells.

Mid-Atlantic states' unique plan to replace region's dirtiest trucks

The Mid-Atlantic Dray Truck Replacement Program aims to double the impact of a federal cash-for-clunkers-style program by combining public and voluntary private contributions. The initiative will offer $15,000 to truckers for new vehicle down-payments and help arrange financing.

Tapping titanium's colorful potential

A cost-effective method for coloring titanium using an electrochemical solution has been developed, enabling over 80 shades of basic colors and crack-free stability. The technology has potential applications in various industries, including healthcare, aviation, and the military.

New data for linagliptin to be presented at the ADA

New data from the Phase III study confirm linagliptin's efficacy in lowering blood glucose and reducing hypoglycemia risk when added to metformin. The medication also demonstrates cardiovascular safety, with a 54% relative risk reduction for cardiovascular events.

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.

Innovative partnership advances novel drug candidate to combat sleeping sickness

A boron-based compound has shown safety and efficacy against stage 1 and 2 of the disease, with its oral formulation and short treatment duration promising for patient care. The collaboration between biotechs Anacor Pharmaceuticals and SCYNEXIS Inc., and not-for-profit DNDi, brings hope for a breakthrough in treating sleeping sickness.

Coordinated system helps heart attack patients get treatment faster

Researchers found that a coordinated care system significantly reduced door-in-door-out times for STEMI patients, with median transfer times decreasing from 97 minutes to 58 minutes after implementation. The system improved outcomes and was supported by the American Heart Association's Mission: Lifeline initiative.

Serum-free cultures help transplanted MSCs improve efficacy

Researchers developed a serum-free culture for mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), increasing cellular growth and enhancing specific differentiation capacities. This breakthrough enables the use of 'off-the-shelf' serum-free media, promoting greater control over cell fate regulation and tissue engineering applications.

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.

Land use change influences continental water cycle

Research by Ruud van der Ent shows that evaporation from the Amazon forest is responsible for 50% of rainfall in Peru and other surrounding countries. Land use changes such as irrigation, dams, and deforestation can alter evaporation patterns, affecting water resources in distant regions.

Scientists measure body temperature of dinosaurs for the first time

Researchers used a new technique to determine dinosaur body temperatures, finding that sauropod dinosaurs had temperatures similar to those of modern mammals. The study provides insights into dinosaur physiology and suggests alternative explanations for their metabolism and behavior.

Fertility rates affected by global economic crisis

The global economic recession of 2008-09 led to a decline in fertility rates in Europe and the US, ending the first rise in fertility since the 1960s. The study found that specific groups of people, such as young individuals and highly educated women, are less likely to have children during recessions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A happy life is a long one for orangutans

Researchers used keeper surveys to assess orangutan happiness, finding it linked to longer lifespan. The study suggests a complex relationship between happiness and health.

Study shows long-term benefits of breast screening

A recent study shows that regular breast screening with mammography significantly reduces the number of deaths from breast cancer. Over 130,000 women were monitored for nearly three decades, and results indicate that 30% fewer women in the screening group died of breast cancer.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Who's happy? How long we look at happy faces is in our genes

A new study has found that variations in the CNR1 gene are associated with longer gaze durations when looking at happy faces. This discovery sheds light on the neural basis of social behavior and may have implications for understanding autism spectrum conditions.

International team explores the stigma surrounding abortion

A team of international researchers is re-examining the concept of abortion stigma, shifting focus from women who've had abortions to a broader context. The study aims to identify constituents, causes, and consequences of abortion stigma, with potential implications for improving access to care and better health outcomes.

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.

The smell of danger

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a single compound found in carnivore urine that triggers an instinctual avoidance response in mice and rats, providing crucial tools to study the neural circuitry associated with innate behavior. The discovery reveals a key role for volatile chemicals in predator-rodent interactions.

To walk or not to walk? That is the question

A study of nine cities worldwide reveals that people are less likely to walk when temperatures drop below zero, during heavy rain or excessive snow. In contrast, warmer temperatures and sunshine increase pedestrian traffic.

Insight into plant behavior could aid quest for efficient biofuels

Researchers at University of Edinburgh discovered tiny seawater algae's survival strategies, which can aid in developing sustainable crops for biofuels and adapting to changing climates. The alga recycles nitrogen from its own body and absorbs alternative nutrients when food sources are scarce.

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.

Student team invents device to cut dialysis risk

A student team at Johns Hopkins University has developed a device to reduce the risk of infection, clotting and narrowing of blood vessels in patients undergoing dialysis. The Hemova Port is an implantable access port that can be easily opened and closed by a technician, reducing the need for frequent site changes.

SHSU team to evaluate mental health court

A team of researchers at Sam Houston State University will study a new mental health court in Montgomery County, evaluating its effectiveness in reducing recidivism rates and improving life skills. The three-year project aims to assess the program's cost-effectiveness and jail diversion outcomes.

Team approach reduces urinary tract infections in rehab patients

A team of healthcare professionals at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Nebraska implemented a collaborative approach to reduce urinary catheter-associated infections (CAUTIs) by 89%. The initiative, led by an infection preventionist, focused on educating staff and patients on proper care and removing medically unnecessary catheters.

HIV disrupts blood-brain barrier

A recent study found that HIV infection in astrocytes breaks down the blood-brain barrier, leading to cognitive impairment and other neurological complications. The researchers suggest that minute numbers of infected astrocytes can trigger a cascade of signals that open the brain to toxic influences.

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.

Improved stepladder design may decrease injuries

A recent study explores how improved design and user behavior can reduce stepladder accidents. Potential solutions include sturdier platforms, closed tubular sections, and warnings for users to avoid overreaching.

Biocides that attack only insects

Researchers have created biocides with micro-encapsulation that are less toxic to the environment while maintaining effectiveness against airborne insects. The product also shows improved solubility in water and reduced handling difficulties.

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.

Splitsville for boron nitride nanotubes

Scientists have developed a technique to mass-produce high-quality boron nitride nanoribbons with uniform lengths and thickness, opening doors for various electronic and magnetic properties. The ribbons display unique edge orientations, such as zigzag or armchair shapes, which are crucial determinants of their properties.

Study finds mammography screening reduces breast cancer mortality

A large-scale Swedish trial shows that regular mammography screening reduces breast cancer mortality by 30% over seven years. The study's findings confirm the long-term benefits of mammography screening and provide new insights into its impact on breast cancer deaths.

Mount Sinai researchers develop new gene therapy for heart failure

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine developed a gene therapy called SERCA2a that stabilized or improved cardiac function in people with severe heart failure. Patients receiving the high-dose therapy experienced substantial clinical benefit and significantly reduced cardiovascular hospitalizations.

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.

Exercise produces positive effects on the intervertebral discs

A study from the University of Gothenburg found that physical exercise stimulates cell proliferation in intervertebral discs, suggesting a potential preventive effect against back pain and disc degeneration. The research team plans to investigate further with this animal model.

Gene variant increases fatty liver risk and fibrosis progression

A new study found that a specific gene variant, PNPLA3 rs738409, is linked to an increased risk of developing fatty liver and faster fibrosis progression in people with chronic hepatitis C. The study suggests this genetic predictor may also be used as a potential therapeutic target for treating the condition.

Jackson Pollock, artist and physicist?

A mathematical analysis of Pollock's work highlights his deliberate and calculated approach to natural phenomena. The study reveals that Pollock exploited fluid dynamics to create unique aesthetic effects, blurring the line between art and science.

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.

Mood and experience: Life comes at you

A new study published in Psychological Science reveals that life experiences significantly influence the set points for anxiety and depression. Researchers used a large sample of over 12,000 twins to show that environmental factors have a lasting impact on mood stability.

Inkjet printing could change the face of solar energy industry

Researchers at Oregon State University have successfully created CIGS solar devices using inkjet printing, reducing raw material waste by 90% and potentially lowering production costs. The new technology has the potential to produce high-performing, rapidly produced, and ultra-low-cost thin film solar electronics.

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.

Chemical produced in pancreas prevented and reversed diabetes in mice

Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital discovered that GABA injections prevented and reversed Type 1 diabetes in mice by regenerating insulin-producing cells and decreasing the immune system's attack on them. This breakthrough finding offers new avenues for prevention and treatment of Type 1 diabetes.

Alcohol blamed for high suicide rates in Northern Ireland

A new report by University of Manchester researchers highlights the link between alcohol misuse and high suicide rates in Northern Ireland, particularly among young people. The study found that alcohol dependence was a factor in 60% of patient suicides, with mental health patients also struggling with substance misuse.

Domed dinosaur king of the head butt

Researchers analyzed the heads of pachycephalosaur dinosaurs and compared them to modern animals that engage in head butting. They found that the bony anatomy of pachycephalosaur domes is better at protecting the brain than in any modern head-butting animal.

Many advanced breast cancer patients do not receive recommended treatment

A new study found that despite publication of treatment guidelines, only 55% of older high-risk breast cancer patients received recommended radiation treatment after mastectomy. The lack of improvement in radiation use suggests guidelines may not be effectively improving care for breast cancer patients.

Benchmarking a slice of Africa; preserving biodiversity through science

A multidisciplinary team led by RIT professor Anthony Vodacek is conducting a comprehensive survey of Lake Kivu to understand the interplay between volcanism, faulting, and biological processes on the region's biodiversity. The study aims to provide scientific data for informed decision-making on land use and preservation in Rwanda.

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.

Conservation dollars and sense

A study by University of Miami researchers suggests that including conservation efforts in long-term management plans is crucial for shark populations. Ecotourism can generate significant revenue, with a single reef shark valued at $73 per day alive, and over $200,000 over its 15-year life cycle.

Fossilized pollen reveals climate history of northern Antarctica

A new study from Rice University and Louisiana State University reveals the Antarctic Peninsula was ice-free and forested during its warmest period 55 million years ago. The research provides a detailed reconstruction of the climatic history of the peninsula, shedding light on how the continent's ice sheets formed and evolved over time.

Helping preterm babies get the best start

A landmark study from Monash University found that preterm babies have fewer nephrons and underdeveloped kidneys, increasing their risk of renal disease. The research aims to develop strategies to minimize the consequences of preterm birth and improve kidney development in these babies.