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Science News Archive November 2011 - Page 26


Page 26 of 28

Chantix unsuitable for first-line smoking cessation use

A study found that varenicline (Chantix) is associated with a substantially increased risk of reported depression or suicidal behavior compared to other smoking-cessation treatments. The researchers identified 90% of all reported suicides related to smoking cessation drugs since 1998 implicated varenicline.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 2, 2011

Mayo researchers discover tactic to delay age-related disorders

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that eliminating senescent cells can prevent or delay the onset of age-related disorders and disabilities. The study showed that lifelong elimination of these cells delayed age-related disorders such as cataracts and muscle loss, and slowed their progression in already established diseases.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 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.

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance now an important first-line test

Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (CMR) has become a critical diagnostic tool in clinical cardiology, providing comprehensive assessments of ventricular function, cardiac morphology, perfusion, viability, and metabolism. CMR offers significant advantages over other imaging modalities, including the absence of ionizing radiation and hig...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalProgress in Cardiovascular Diseases·DateNov 2, 2011

Video game playing tied to creativity

A study by Michigan State University found that video game playing boosts creativity in tasks like drawing and writing, but not other technology use. The researchers surveyed nearly 500 middle-school students and used the Torrance Test of Creativity-Figural to gauge their creative abilities.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateNov 2, 2011

Increased use of bikes for commuting offers economic, health benefits

A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that replacing short auto trips with bicycle trips can save an estimated $7 billion per year by reducing mortality and healthcare costs. Biking also improves local air quality and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 2, 2011

Graphene applications in electronics and photonics

Graphene's unique properties, including fast electron mobility and high mechanical strength, make it suitable for fast analog electronics. Researchers are working to improve synthetic graphene quality and study its behavior in technology conditions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 2, 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.

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.

Ohio State researchers design a viral vector to treat a genetic form of blindness

Researchers at Ohio State University Medical Center have developed a viral vector designed to deliver a gene into the eyes of people born with an inherited form of blindness. The trial aims to treat choroideremia, a disease affecting 100,000 worldwide, and holds promise for other genetic causes of blindness like retinitis pigmentosa.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·DateNov 2, 2011

Measuring outcome in the treatment of depression via the Web

A new study by Rhode Island Hospital reports that web-based assessments for outcome measurements of patients in treatment for depression are valid and reliable. The researchers also found that patients preferred the Internet version over the paper version, citing it as less burdensome, time-consuming, secure, and accurate.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateNov 2, 2011

NIH scientists outline steps toward Epstein-Barr virus vaccine

A potential EBV vaccine could prevent infectious mononucleosis and cancers linked to the virus. Researchers prioritize studying immune responses to vaccination and identifying biological markers for cancer prediction.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 2, 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.

When the fat comes out of food, what goes in?

Food processors face challenges in reproducing textures with reduced ingredients, but natural alternatives like plant-based compounds and natural emulsifiers help. The American Chemical Society explores the science behind creating 'light' or '-free' versions of products.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 2, 2011

Unraveling the causes of the Ice Age megafauna extinctions

A recent study reveals that neither human activity nor climate change alone caused the Ice Age megafauna extinctions. However, the research suggests that a combination of factors, including humans and climate change, contributed to the loss of large mammal species in Eurasia and North America.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 2011

3-D long-term bone marrow culture to analyze stromal cell biological function

Researchers created a novel 3D long-term bone marrow culture system to investigate stromal cell biological function. This system successfully maintained hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) for extended periods, enabling the analysis of stromal-cell interactions and regulatory factors.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateNov 2, 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.

Dirt prevents allergy

Researchers at University of Copenhagen found that children born vaginally with diverse gut bacteria have lower risk of allergies. The study suggests that early exposure to a variety of bacteria is crucial for a healthy immune system, contradicting the long-held notion that bacteria are a threat to public health.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 2, 2011

Solar concentrator increases collection with less loss

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratories and Penn State have developed a new solar concentrator design that improves light collection efficiency. The new design achieves near-lossless propagation for several different chromophores, enabling a more than twofold increase in concentration ratio compared to conventional LSCs.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 2, 2011

Thousand-color sensor reveals contaminants in Earth and sea

A Tel Aviv University-developed technology uses a hyperspectral camera to analyze the world we live in, detecting contaminants and environmental hazards in real time. The sensor can provide immediate, cost-effective, and accurate monitoring of forests, urban areas, agricultural lands, harbors, or marinas.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateNov 2, 2011

UT study: Climate change affects ants and biodiversity

A UT study reveals climate change affects ants' ability to disperse seeds and perform vital ecosystem functions, potentially jeopardizing plant biodiversity. Researchers observed dramatic changes in ant behavior in response to temperature increases.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·DateNov 2, 2011

Researchers reveal potential treatment for sickle cell disease

Researchers have discovered a key trigger for producing normal red blood cells that could lead to a new treatment for those with sickle cell disease. Increasing the expression of proteins TR2 and TR4 more than doubled the level of fetal hemoglobin produced in sickle cell mice, reducing organ damage.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A widely used bee antibiotic may harm rather than help

Researchers discovered that a widely used bee antibiotic increases susceptibility to pesticides, contributing to colony collapse disorder. The study suggests that oxytetracycline interacts with specific proteins in the bees, rendering them more vulnerable to toxic chemicals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 2, 2011

Link between air pollution and cyclone intensity in Arabian Sea

Air pollution linked to stronger cyclones in Arabian Sea, with research suggesting aerosol buildup over India deflects sunlight, creating dimming that enables stronger storms. Scientists note a trend of increasingly strong cyclones in months preceding monsoon season.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 2011

Maternal separation stresses the baby

Separating newborns from their mothers stresses the baby, with heart rate variability increasing by 176% and quiet sleep decreasing by 86%. Skin-to-skin contact with mother reduces this stress, but further research is needed to understand its long-term effects.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateNov 2, 2011

Manufacturing microscale medical devices for faster tissue engineering

Researchers developed a new method using two-photon polymerization with multiple foci to create finely detailed structures, such as tissue scaffolds and microneedles, more quickly than traditional techniques. This enables faster production of microscale medical devices for tissue engineering applications.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateNov 2, 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.

VLT observations of gamma-ray burst reveal surprising ingredients of early galaxies

New study reveals two young galaxies at 12 billion years old with super-solar metal abundances, challenging our understanding of the universe's chemical evolution. The findings support the idea that gamma-ray bursts are associated with vigorous massive star formation and provide insights into the history of the early universe.

SourceESO·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 2, 2011

Radiation plus hormone therapy greatly improves survival

Men with locally advanced or high-risk prostate cancer who receive combined radiation and hormone therapy live longer and are less likely to die from their disease. The treatment improved overall survival by 23% and disease-specific survival by 43% compared to hormone therapy alone.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 2, 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.

Young and old work together to challenge stereotypes of age

A workshop titled 'Act your Age! Challenging Stereotypes' brings together young children and older adults to explore perceptions of ageing. Through interactive activities, participants develop self-awareness and intergenerational relationships, challenging negative views of older people.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateNov 2, 2011

UNH-led project to boost Northeast organic dairy industry

Researchers are exploring ways to enhance farm profitability by extending the grazing season and adding value to milk through flaxseed supplementation, addressing concerns of organic dairy farmers in the Northeast. The project also aims to improve milk quality by sustaining omega-3 fatty acids and CLA concentrations throughout the year.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateNov 2, 2011

Major breakthrough improves software reliability and security

A new software system called Peregrine has been developed to improve the reliability and security of multithreaded programs. It uses a deterministic approach to prevent data races and bugs, making it faster than previous systems while not requiring new hardware or languages.

SourceColumbia University·DateNov 2, 2011

Fruit fly intestine may hold secret to the fountain of youth

Researchers found that boosting a gene in fruit flies' intestinal stem cells extended their lifespan by up to 50% and delayed the aging of their intestine. The study suggests that the gene, PGC-1, can act as a biological dial for slowing the aging process and may serve as a target for new therapies.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 2, 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.

Peatland carbon storage is stabilized against catastrophic release of carbon

A new study found that peatlands will continue to sequester their huge deposits of carbon and methane under moderate climate change conditions. The research used laboratory simulations to study the decomposition of wet bog peat, showing that carbon release slows down in deeply buried peat.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 2, 2011

New evidence for the earliest modern humans in Europe

A fossil fragment from Kent's Cavern in southern England establishes the presence of modern humans in western Europe by 40,000 years ago. The discovery joins a human skull and lower jaw from Romania, confirming modern humans at both ends of Europe by this date.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 2011

Tulane-led study first to confirm effectiveness and safety of new treatment for hemophilia

A new treatment for severe hemophilia A patients with inhibitors has been shown to be highly effective in preventing bleeding events. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that FEIBA infused three times a week resulted in a 62% reduction in all bleeding events and a 72% reduction in target joint bleeding.

SourceTulane University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 2, 2011

Maryland climate plan passes key tests in UMD studies

The University of Maryland Center for Integrative Environmental Research finds that Maryland's Climate Action Plan improves electric reliability while having a negligible impact on manufacturers. The plan is expected to generate new business opportunities and jobs in the green sector, with potential growth in employment opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateNov 2, 2011
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.

Study shows promise for teen suicide prevention

A new study by UCLA researchers shows that a specialized mental health intervention for suicidal youth can significantly improve follow-up treatment rates. The intervention, which involves a family-based crisis-therapy session and telephone support, resulted in higher rates of follow-up treatment compared to standard ED treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateNov 2, 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.

Global flu watch: Report of rare flu coinfection in Southeast Asia hot spot

Researchers have confirmed a rare incidence of individuals becoming infected with both seasonal and pandemic strains of the flu at the same time. Experts say this highlights the ongoing risk of distinct flu viruses combining in human hosts, particularly in Southeast Asia where avian influenza and pandemic H1N1 are prevalent.

SourceBurness·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateNov 2, 2011

News tips from the journal mBio

Antibodies have been found to trick certain bacteria into killing each other, providing a new mechanism for bacterial clearance. Additionally, researchers suggest that humoral immunity may play a role in eliminating old seasonal influenza virus strains by inducing an anti-stalk antibody response.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateNov 2, 2011

GSA Bulletin Highlights: New research posted ahead of print

Studies explore Ligurian accretionary complex evolution and Andean thrusting, shedding light on continental margin dynamics. Cosmogenic isotope analysis reveals insights into the geological history of Wonderwerk Cave and Redoubt Volcano.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateNov 2, 2011

A hormone ensures its future

Researchers discovered a crucial brain area, neuro-hypophysis, where biochemical commands are passed from the brain to the bloodstream. They found that oxytocin, known as the 'hormone of love,' plays a key role in the development of this structure, governing blood vessel formation during embryonic stages.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 2, 2011
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.

USC scientist's revolutionary drug pump draws NSF support

USC Associate Professor Ellis Meng is selected for the NSF's Innovation Corps award to develop and commercialize her tiny, implantable medication-delivery system. The system has a better volume efficiency, allowing it to be powered wirelessly and used in animal studies.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateNov 2, 2011

MU studies link depression and breast cancer outcomes

A new MU study reveals that depression affects breast cancer survivors, with single women and mothers experiencing higher rates of distress. The research also shows that depressed patients are less likely to adhere to medication regimens, potentially complicating treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPsychology and Health·DateNov 2, 2011

New therapy marks a milestone in fight against cystic fibrosis

A pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial found that ivacaftor provides sustained improvement in lung function, growth, and other signs and symptoms for cystic fibrosis patients. The therapy targets the underlying cause of CF, restoring balance on airway surfaces.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 2, 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.

Born to roar

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that big cats' square-shaped vocal cords allow for louder roars at lower lung pressure, making it easier for the tissue to respond to airflow. This discovery contradicts a long-held theory and could potentially help doctors reconstruct damaged vocal fold tissue.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 2, 2011

Solar power could get boost from new light absorption design

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new material that absorbs a wide range of wavelengths, enabling more efficient solar cells. The innovative trapezoid shape could be replicated in semiconducting materials to lead to thinner, lower-cost, and more efficient solar technology.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 2011