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Science News Archive September 2011 - Page 23


Page 23 of 29

Structured homeschooling gets an A+

A new study from Concordia University and Mount Allison University found that homeschooled children who followed a structured curriculum performed significantly better on standardized tests than their public school peers. On average, they scored two to four grade levels higher in certain tests, with some scoring as much as half a grade...

SourceConcordia University·JournalCanadian Journal of Behavioural Science/Revue canadienne des sciences du comportement·DateSep 8, 2011

Critters on ocean floor communicating in synchronized rumbles

A team of scientists, including students from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School, studied the sounds of California mantis shrimp to understand their communication methods. They found that males made rhythmic 'rumbles' in groups of three to attract females and defend territories.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalAquatic Biology·DateSep 8, 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.

Is estrogen going to your head?

Researchers found a 2.5 times higher prevalence of HFI in modern female participants compared to historic skulls, with average age of onset dropping drastically. Hormonal imbalance, lifestyle factors, and fertility habits may contribute to the condition.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateSep 8, 2011
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.

Sunspot 1283 bristling with flares: An X1.8 and an M6.7

Sunspot 1283 has erupted with multiple flares, including an X1.8 flare on September 7 and a moderate M6.7 flare on September 8. NASA predicts that the latest coronal mass ejection may cause some aurora on the morning of September 11.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 8, 2011

Powered by seaweed: Polymer from algae may improve battery performance

Researchers at Clemson University have identified a promising new binder material for lithium-ion battery electrodes extracted from common brown algae. The alginate has helped boost energy storage and output for both graphite-based and silicon-based electrodes, addressing challenges in existing batteries.

SourceClemson University·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2011

White House's Childhood Obesity Task Force must focus on providing treatment for minority children

A recent U-M study highlights the need for a shared emphasis on both obesity prevention and treatment strategies to achieve the White House's goal of eliminating childhood obesity. The study concludes that prevention programs alone cannot effectively address the epidemic affecting minority children, who are disproportionately affected.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalObesity·DateSep 8, 2011

Cellular communications visualized with a vibrant color palette

A University of Alberta-led team has expanded the fluorescent highlighter palette to track calcium ions in single cells, providing a full-color view of intracellular communication. This breakthrough enables better visualization of neuronal activity and may aid pharmaceutical researchers in determining drug efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 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.

Human brain evolution, new insight through X-rays

A new X-ray scan has provided the highest resolution and most accurate image of an early human ancestor's brain case. The study challenges previous models of brain evolution by revealing a surprisingly small brain volume and a mix of characteristics that resemble both humans and chimpanzees.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2011

Newly identified gene mutation linked to Parkinson's

A newly discovered gene mutation in EIF4G1 has been linked to Parkinson's disease, affecting protein translation and cellular recycling. This finding provides a new potential target for treatments and highlights the importance of gene-environmental interactions in neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 8, 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.

UH researchers work to develop screening method for superbug

A team of researchers from University of Houston and St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital are working to develop improved screening methods for detecting drug-resistant superbugs, specifically carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP). The bacteria can cause deadly infections in people with weakened immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalDiagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease·DateSep 8, 2011

$1.2 million education grant will train science and math teachers

The grant will provide fellowships for up to ten students annually and expand research opportunities for STEM students seeking a teaching career. The program aims to address California's severe shortage of qualified science and math teachers in high-poverty urban schools.

SourceSan Francisco State University·DateSep 8, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sediba hominid skull hints at later brain evolution

Researchers analyzed a 2-million-year-old skull from Sediba, suggesting a more 'mosaic' pattern of human brain evolution. The brain was found to be primitive but with early glimmers of reorganization towards a human pattern.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2011

New translator app makes sense of foreign-language food menus

A new translation app can help English speakers understand foreign-language food menus, allowing individuals with medical restrictions to make informed decisions. The app uses a method called n-gram consolidation to improve accuracy and reduce memory requirements, enabling real-time translations without internet connectivity.

SourcePurdue University·DateSep 8, 2011
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.

Caltech group applies new techniques and sees surprises in cell division

Researchers at Caltech have obtained high-resolution images of a cell with a nucleus undergoing cell division, revealing a surprising twist in the process. The observations suggest that chromosomes may link together to form a bundle that can be segregated by a smaller number of microtubules.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2011

Leaders in field analyze proposed National Criminal Justice Commission

The article discusses the key issues of the proposed National Criminal Justice Commission and offers recommendations from experts in the field. The commission aims to address the growing number of Americans incarcerated or on parole, which has increased by 290% since 1980, affecting government programs such as education and public health.

SourceSAGE·JournalThe Prison Journal·DateSep 8, 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.

Schwartz Center proposes agenda to promote compassionate care

The Schwartz Center for Compassionate Healthcare proposes an agenda to improve compassionate care in the US healthcare system. The center's recommendations include measuring compassionate care through a national quality standard, funding comparative effectiveness research, and developing comprehensive training programs.

SourceThe Schwartz Center for Compassionate Healthcare·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 8, 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 infants gain the capacity for pain

A new study reveals that infants' brain networks mature enough to identify pain distinct from touch around 35-37 weeks gestation. This finding may impact treatment and development of premature newborns, who can exhibit altered pain behavior due to excessive noxious input during neonatal care.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2011

Collaborative science and engineering

The Materials Research Science and Engineering Center at Northwestern University has received a six-year, $16.2 million grant to support its interdisciplinary research program and educational activities. The center aims to develop new nanoscale materials with applications in information processing, electronics, and sensing technologies.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateSep 8, 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.

Targeted policing has knock-on benefits

A new study by University College London found that targeted policing can lead to a reduction in crime not only in the targeted area but also in surrounding locations, known as 'diffusion of benefits'. Problem-oriented policing was shown to have the greatest positive effect on crime in nearby areas.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Experimental Criminology·DateSep 8, 2011

'TF beacons' may light path to new cancer tests and drugs

Scientists have developed 'transcription factor beacons' to quickly detect the activity of proteins controlling gene expression in cancer. The breakthrough technology may enable faster cancer diagnosis and the discovery of new cancer drugs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 7, 2011

Study links drinking pattern to alcohol’s effect on heart health

A new study found that daily moderate drinking decreases atherosclerosis in mice, while binge drinking increases its development. Moderate drinking also lowered LDL cholesterol and reduced plaque volume, whereas binge drinking led to increased inflammation and weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateSep 7, 2011

Researchers publish study on neuronal RNA targeting

A study by SUNY Downstate scientist Ilham Muslimov suggests that molecular competition in neuronal RNA transport may contribute to neurodegenerative disorders. The researchers identified RNA motifs that act as spatial codes in nerve cells, directing RNAs to dendrites and synapses.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 7, 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.

Simulation proven to enhance training of health professionals

A comprehensive analysis of 600 studies found that simulation-based training consistently outperforms traditional instruction. The study's findings suggest that simulation can be an effective tool for teaching physicians and other healthcare professionals, offering benefits such as repeated practice without patient harm.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJAMA·DateSep 7, 2011

King crabs threaten seafloor life near Antarctica

A recent study discovered a large, reproductive population of king crabs in the Palmer Deep along the west Antarctic Peninsula. The species is now established on the continental shelf in West Antarctica and has the potential to drastically reduce seafloor biodiversity. This finding highlights the invasive nature of the king crab popula...

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·DateSep 7, 2011

Where does all the gold come from?

Researchers at the University of Bristol analyzed ancient rock samples to determine the origin of Earth's precious metals. They found that the planet's accessible reserves of gold and other precious elements are the result of a catastrophic meteorite shower that hit the Earth after its core formation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2011

Branding like Beckham

A study on the Beckham family's branding strategy reveals that creating a dynamic personal story with distinct persona cues is crucial for achieving brand distinctiveness. By leveraging opportunities for publicity and social media visibility, families can build a strong brand presence that endures beyond their original field of practice.

SourceSAGE·JournalFamily Business Review·DateSep 7, 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.

Legislation creates conflict on the Horn of Africa

A new grant-funded project from the University of Copenhagen aims to investigate how Kenya's handling of natural resources contributes to instability in the country. The researchers will focus on the Mau Forest, a region affected by violent conflicts over resource access.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·DateSep 7, 2011

Parents’ behavior linked to kids’ videogame playing

A Michigan State University study linked parental behavior to kids' videogame playing, revealing that perceived negative parent interactions and lack of monitoring drive children to engage in gaming. Researchers aim to explore the relationship between videogame playing and actual parental behavior.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 7, 2011

New 'bouncer' molecule halts rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new protein called P21, which acts as a protective barrier against hyperactive immune cells in people with rheumatoid arthritis. By inhibiting the immune cells' destructive rampage, the bouncer molecule halts the disease process, offering a promising new avenue for future therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 7, 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.

Sorting out major brain stent study: Cedars-sinai experts say procedure effective for some patients

A recent brain stent study found aggressive medical treatment without stenting may be better for high-risk stroke patients, but experts at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center believe the procedure is appropriate for certain patients who haven't responded to medication. The study's limitations and exclusions have raised concerns among researchers.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2011

South-East universities turn their knowledge into wealth

A study reveals that universities in the south-east of England outperform those in less competitive regions in commercializing their research. Key findings show that these universities have a high concentration of innovative firms and Research and Development institutions, facilitating collaboration and knowledge transfer.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateSep 7, 2011

Deep-sea fish in deep trouble

A team of experts recommends ending most commercial fishing in the deep sea due to their unsustainability. The study suggests redirecting subsidies to rebuild fish populations in closer-to-coastal waters.

SourceMarine Conservation Biology Institute·JournalMarine Policy·DateSep 7, 2011
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.

Death tolls spur pro-war stance, study finds

A study at Washington University in St. Louis found that highlighting war casualties can sway people's pro-war attitudes rather than discouraging them. The 'sunk-cost effect' makes individuals more likely to stay committed to a cause due to the emotional investment, even if it no longer serves their best interest.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateSep 7, 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.