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Science News Archive November 2011


Page 2 of 28

Supercomputers take a cue from microwave ovens

Berkeley researchers are exploring a co-design approach to scientific computing, which brings together scientists and computer engineers to create purpose-built systems for specific applications. This could lead to increased code efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and faster modeling of complex problems like clouds.

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.

NASA's Swift finds a gamma-ray burst with a dual personality

Astronomers propose two exotic scenarios for the unusual cosmic explosion: a novel supernova billions of light-years away or an unusual collision within our own galaxy. The 'Christmas burst' was caused by either event, with observations suggesting a neutron star and rapid tightening of its orbit.

Collecting carbon in a concrete jungle

A new project aims to reduce carbon emissions by using microscopic tubes that can adsorb CO2 from the air, with potential applications in built-up urban areas. The technology could lead to a patentable unit being developed within five years, offering a sustainable solution for reducing carbon footprint.

Abrupt permafrost thaw increases climate threat

Permafrost thaw could release approximately the same amount of carbon as deforestation, but with a greater impact due to methane emissions. The study estimates that by 2100, carbon released from permafrost will be 1.7-5.2 times larger than previous models.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Heart attack risk differs between men and women

A study using coronary CT angiography found that women are at a significantly greater risk of cardiovascular events than men when experiencing large amounts of plaque build-up or extensive artery narrowing. In contrast, men with non-calcified plaque are at higher risk for major adverse cardiac events compared to women.

Scientists discover anti-inflammatory polyphenols in apple peels

Researchers discovered that oral ingestion of apple polyphenols can suppress T cell activation and ameliorate experimental colitis in mice. The study found that apple polyphenols protect against colitis via the suppression of T cell activation and/or recruitment.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scripps Florida scientist awarded $3.4 million for HIV/AIDS research

A Scripps Florida scientist has received a $3.4 million grant to study a new compound that blocks HIV replication by targeting the viral protein Tat. The goal is to evaluate its therapeutic potential in animal models and optimize it for human clinical trials, potentially leading to a novel class of anti-viral drugs.

Self-referral leads to more negative exams for patients

A study found that physicians with financial interest in imaging equipment refer more patients for unnecessary MRI exams, leading to increased healthcare costs. The study revealed a higher rate of negative scans and younger patients among those referred by financially interested physicians.

Geology highlights: New research posted in Nov.

Scientists have discovered tranquillityite in Australia's Eel Creek Formation, a mineral previously believed to originate on the Moon. Meanwhile, researchers in Hong Kong present the first three-dimensional seismic velocity model of the region, providing insights into crustal structures and earthquake activity.

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.

Training peers improves social outcomes for some kids with ASD

A recent NIH-funded study found that engaging peers in social skills intervention may be more effective than training children with ASD directly. The study showed that children with ASD who interacted with trained peers had improved social outcomes, including reduced time alone on playgrounds and increased classmate friendships.

Study finds savanna chimps exhibit sharing behavior like humans

Chimpanzees from the Fongoli research site in Senegal frequently share plant food and hunting tools with other chimps, exhibiting behavior similar to humans. The study found that females commonly receive food from males, potentially as a future mating strategy.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Nano meets pharma at Harvard-BASF symposium

Researchers at Harvard University and BASF are working on creating nanoscale particles of drugs to overcome hydrophobic drug compounds. The symposium aims to discuss efficient creation and delivery of these tiny particles for targeted treatment, addressing major challenges in modern medicine.

Stinky frogs are a treasure trove of antibiotic substances

Scientists discovered a vast array of anti-bacterial substances, known as peptides, in the skin of odorous frogs. These peptides account for almost one-third of all antimicrobial peptides found worldwide, offering potential clues for developing new antibiotics.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

WSU researchers use a 3-D printer to make bone-like material

Researchers at Washington State University have successfully created a bone-like material and structure that can be used in orthopedic procedures, dental work, and to deliver medicine for treating osteoporosis. The material was produced using a 3D printer and has shown promising results in both in vitro and in vivo tests.

Exercise helps us to eat a healthy diet

A new study reveals that increased physical activity is linked to improved diet quality, suggesting that exercise can encourage healthier eating habits. The research also highlights the importance of social policy in promoting physical activity among the population to prevent obesity.

Imperfections may improve graphene sensors

Researchers found that defects in graphene improve its chemical sensing capabilities, leading to potential breakthroughs in gas detection technology. The study suggests that micrometer-sized line defects can enhance the sensitivity of graphene sensors.

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.

Low staffing and poor quality of care at nation's for-profit nursing homes

The study found that the nation's largest for-profit chains operate with significantly lower staffing levels than non-profit and government-owned nursing homes, leading to poorer quality of care. The top 10 chains have a strategy of keeping labor costs low to increase profits, resulting in more deficiencies and serious deficiencies.

Body rebuilding: Researchers regenerate muscle in mice

A team of scientists from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and CellThera regenerated functional muscle tissue in mice using a novel protocol that combined reprogramming human cells and biopolymer microthreads. The study showed promising results, with most new muscle fibers composed of mouse cells, suggesting that fibrin microthreads alo...

"Look at that!" -- ravens use gestures, too

Researchers observed ravens using deictic gestures in the wild, such as pointing and holding up objects to test interest or strengthen bonds. This study suggests that complex communication systems may be more widespread than previously thought.

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.

Use of opioid painkillers for abdominal pain has more than doubled

Chronic abdominal pain has seen a significant rise in opioid prescriptions, driven by factors such as campaigns to recognize pain as the "fifth vital sign". The use of opioids for non-cancer chronic pain is supported by limited evidence and can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and worsen abdominal pain.

ONR-funded guided rockets hit fast-moving boat targets in test

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has successfully tested a new precision-guided weapon prototype, known as the Low-Cost Imaging Terminal Seeker (LCITS). LCITS enables unguided rockets to automatically compute and home in on targets after launch, providing naval aviators with a new lethal capability.

Microscopic worms could hold the key to living life on Mars

Scientists use Caenorhabditis elegans to study the effects of long-duration space exploration on humans. The worms develop and reproduce in space just like on Earth, making them an ideal model for investigating the challenges of Martian habitation.

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.

Gene is first linked to herpes-related cold sores

Researchers at the University of Utah have identified a gene associated with frequent herpes-related cold sores. The C21orf91 gene is linked to susceptibility to HSL, and variations in this gene may predict or prevent cold sore outbreaks.

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.

New tuberculosis research movement needed

The TB Research Movement aims to create a framework for concrete actions to harmonize and synergize TB research efforts globally. The movement is creating a framework for more research and innovation, particularly for the poor and vulnerable populations burdened by TB.

Environment and diet leave their prints on the heart

Researchers at University of Cambridge have mapped DNA methylation in human heart, revealing its connection to environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle. The study provides new insights into the genetic changes that can lead to heart disease and potential ways to identify and treat it.

Gene acts as a brake on breast cancer progression

A new study published in Cancer Discovery reveals that the 14-3-3σ gene plays a critical role in halting breast cancer initiation and progression. The research suggests that this gene is likely a major player in other types of cancer as well.

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.

Minorities pay more for water and sewer

A study by Michigan State University researchers reveals that racial minorities face higher costs for basic water and sewer services. The study attributes the disparity to the aging infrastructure in urban areas, where whites have fled, leaving minority residents to bear the costs.

Genetic buzzer-beater genes may save fish

A study published by researchers at the University of Oregon reveals that two distinct populations of rainbow trout share a genetic trait that enables them to adapt to their native rivers in Alaska and Idaho. This gene variant, identified using RAD technology, may hold key to saving struggling fish populations from extinction.

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.

A smarter way to make ultraviolet light beams

Researchers have optimized a type of optical resonator to boost infrared signals to higher-energy ultraviolet beams using low-power nonlinear processes. This enables the creation of low-cost, wavelength-tunable ultraviolet sources with applications in chemical detection, medical imaging and fine lithography.

GSA Bulletin highlights: New research posted ahead of print

Two studies published in GSA BULLETIN examine the evolution of C4-dominated grasslands in the southern Great Plains and the tectonomagmatic evolution of northwestern Mexico. The first study uses carbon isotope composition to reconstruct the relative abundance of C4 grasses over the past 12 million years, finding a protracted history of...

Geosphere highlights: New research posted Nov. 22, 2011

Two studies investigate geological history of Grenville Province and thermal properties of Antarctica's Victoria Land Basin. A new educational program also enhances science education among educators participating in the ANDRILL research initiative.

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.

Shedding light on the 'dark matter' of the genome

Plant pathologists discovered a gene with varying intron lengths in fungus M. graminicola, challenging conventional models of intron presence-absence polymorphisms. The study sheds light on genome evolution and suggests natural selection may play a role in intron fixation.

Is the end of polio truly in sight?

Despite significant progress, polio eradication remains complex due to asymptomatic infections and vaccine limitations. Experts emphasize the need for further research on virus-host interactions and vaccine usage in the final stages of the program.

Industrialization weakens important carbon sink

Researchers found a 100-fold weakening in coastal ecosystems' ability to sequester carbon since European settlement, coinciding with industrial expansion and nitrogen deposition. Estuaries, natural global carbon sinks, are at risk of diminishing their ability to mitigate climate change.

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.

U of I study: Kindergarten friendships matter, especially for boys

A University of Illinois study found that high-quality kindergarten friendships are essential for boys' social skills and behavior problems in first and third grades. In contrast, girls' social skills were not significantly affected by their kindergarten friendships. The research suggests that early friendships provide a positive found...

Growth hormone increases bone formation in obese women

A six-month growth hormone replacement study found increased bone formation, muscle mass, and decreased abdominal fat in abdominally obese women. The results suggest growth hormone as a potential treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis.