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Science News Archive March 2012 - Page 9


Page 9 of 32

OB/GYN screening may help detect heart disease risk

A pilot program at OB/GYN clinics screened 2,234 women for cardiovascular risk factors or disease. Cardiovascular assessment in these settings may enhance primary prevention and education to female patients. Many women are unaware of their heart disease risk factors, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 25, 2012
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.

Paul Raeburn receives American Chemical Society's prestigious journalism award

Paul Raeburn, a nationally recognized science journalist and author, has received the James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for his work in interpreting chemistry for the public. The award is presented annually by the American Chemical Society to recognize outstanding achievements in communicating chemistry to the general public.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 25, 2012

When targeting obesity in sixth-graders, gender matters

Research suggests that interventions targeting obesity in adolescents should be tailored to gender differences, with exercise and sports benefiting boys and drinking milk predicting healthier weight in girls. Regular physical activity and improved school lunches are also key predictors of obesity.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 25, 2012

Minimally invasive treatment for ruptured aneurysm: Safe, reduces mortality

A minimally invasive interventional radiology treatment called endovascular aortic repair is associated with lower mortality rates and shorter hospital stays compared to open surgical repair for ruptured aneurysms. The study found that women had worse outcomes after the procedure, highlighting the need for further research in this area.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·DateMar 25, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vaccinating chickens could prevent food-borne illness

A vaccine targeting Campylobacter in chickens could drastically reduce food-borne illness cases, saving the UK economy millions annually. The leading cause of food-borne illness, responsible for 30% of cases in the UK, is found in the gut of many animals, including chickens.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateMar 25, 2012

Compound in soy products may help lower blood pressure

A study found that moderate isoflavone intake can lower systolic blood pressure in young adults, with a notable benefit for African Americans. Isoflavones may help compensate for endothelial dysfunction, a condition that plays a bigger role in hypertension in African Americans.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 25, 2012

A double ring ceremony prepares telomerase RNA to wed its protein partner

Researchers discovered a two-step ritual in which RNA telomerase partners are prepared for interaction, revealing novel pharmaceutical approaches to cancer and diseases of aging. The study sheds light on the complex process of telomerase biogenesis and its connection to seemingly unrelated diseases.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature·DateMar 25, 2012
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.

Inner weapons against allergies: Gut bacteria control allergic diseases

Researchers discovered that gut bacteria play a crucial role in controlling allergic inflammation by regulating basophil responses and limiting IgE production. The study's findings suggest that targeting the commensal bacterial population may be beneficial in treating allergic diseases, offering new therapeutic options for asthma and o...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 25, 2012

The body's bacteria affect intestinal blood vessel formation

Gut bacteria influence intestinal blood vessel formation through a previously unknown mechanism, according to researchers at the University of Gothenburg. The study found that intestinal bacteria promote mucosal cells to attach sugar molecules to specific proteins, inducing signaling for new blood vessel formation.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature·DateMar 25, 2012

Weather records due to climate change: A game with loaded dice

Recent extreme weather events show a clear link to global warming, according to a new analysis of scientific evidence. The study found that warming temperatures lead to more frequent heatwaves and heavy rainfall, but the relationship with storms is less clear.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 25, 2012
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.

Complications in patients undergoing PCI tend to occur within first 30 days

A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that cardiovascular disease and heart attack complications from PCI tend to occur within the first 30 days after treatment. The study analyzed patients who received anti-blood clotting drugs, with prasugrel showing a significant benefit in reducing these complications.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateMar 24, 2012
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.

Bone marrow stem cells improve heart function, study finds

A study led by Mayo Clinic researchers found that bone marrow-derived stem cells improved ejection fraction, a measure of the left ventricle's pumping ability, by 2.7% in patients with chronic heart failure. The most significant improvements were seen in younger patients and those with enriched CD34+ and CD133+ type of stem cells.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateMar 24, 2012

Study examines treatment of heart failure with bone marrow cells

A study published in JAMA found that using bone marrow cells to treat chronic ischemic heart failure did not show significant improvements in most measures of heart function. However, exploratory analysis revealed a significant effect on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) among patients under 62 years old.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 24, 2012

New class of platelet blockers proves effective in phase III trial

A new class of platelet blockers has been shown to reduce the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events in patients with known atherosclerosis. Adding vorapaxar, an investigational platelet blocker, to standard antiplatelet therapy cuts the likelihood of another cardiac event by 13% compared to placebo.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 24, 2012
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.

Telemedicine improves medication management, patient care

Internet-based telemedicine systems lead to more timely treatment decisions and medication adjustments for patients with high blood pressure. Patients who reported frequent blood pressure readings via a web-based portal received more appropriate pharmacotherapy and an overall reduction in cardiovascular risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 24, 2012

Stem cell therapy possibly helpful in heart failure patients

A new study found that using a patient's own bone marrow cells can help repair damaged areas of the heart caused by heart failure. The treatment increased left ventricular ejection fraction by a small but significant amount, and improved perfusion defects in patients with chronic ischemic heart disease.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 24, 2012

Long-term outcomes of TAVI show non-cardiac co-morbidities main cause of mortality

A Canadian study reveals that non-cardiac co-morbidities such as COPD and chronic kidney disease are the main predictors of late mortality after TAVI, emphasizing the importance of closer patient evaluation and follow-up. The study also shows that valve performance is maintained throughout the follow-up period.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 24, 2012

To get the full story you need to know the motifs

A team of researchers has developed a new tool to identify conserved motifs in the genomes of trypanosomatids, a group of parasites that include the causing agents of leishmaniasis and Chagas disease. The tool, named LeischCICS, uses bioinformatics tools to pinpoint potentially functional and regulatory sequences.

SourcePublicase International·JournalMolecular and Biochemical Parasitology·DateMar 24, 2012
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.

Seeing is believeing with clogged arteries

A study found that patients who viewed images of their coronary artery calcium scores were more likely to take statins as directed and lose weight, with compliance increasing as disease severity increased. This suggests that visualizing the extent of cardiovascular disease can motivate patients to adhere to recommended therapies.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 24, 2012
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.

New epilepsy gene located in dogs

A new epilepsy gene has been discovered in dogs, specifically in Belgian Shepherds, which is associated with a seven-fold increased risk of epilepsy. The research also suggests that other genetic risk factors may be present in the breed, and ongoing studies aim to identify the specific gene causing epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 23, 2012

Research sheds new light on extra help for smokers trying to quit

A study published in the British Medical Journal found that offering free nicotine patches and proactive counselling to smokers calling an NHS quitline did not increase the number of people who successfully quit smoking. The trial compared the effectiveness of this extra support against standard reactive quitline support, with no signi...

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateMar 23, 2012

New study quantifies the enormous cost of fragility fractures in Europe

A new study estimates the total economic burden of fragility fractures in the European Union at €39 billion EUR, with hip fractures contributing to over half of all costs. The study highlights the need for preventive action to address the growing number of seniors and estimated doubling of fractures by 2050.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateMar 23, 2012

Plant DNA speaks English, identifies new species

Researchers have successfully diagnosed a new species of plant using DNA barcoding, a method that relies on short DNA sequences for identification. The study marks a significant shift towards English-language diagnoses, which will enable scientists to more easily share and verify findings.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateMar 23, 2012
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.

Researchers unveil robot jellyfish built on nanotechnology

The University of Texas at Dallas and Virginia Tech have created an undersea vehicle inspired by the common jellyfish, which runs on renewable energy. The robotic jellyfish, dubbed Robojelly, feeds off hydrogen and oxygen gases found in water, producing only water as waste.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateMar 23, 2012
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.

Megalara garuda: the King of Wasps

A new, pitch-black wasp species has been discovered in Sulawesi, Indonesia, belonging to the digger wasp family. The species differs from all known related digger wasps due to its unusual body size and long, sickle-shaped jaws.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateMar 23, 2012

Ancient civilizations reveal ways to manage fisheries for sustainability

A study reconstructing fisheries yields over seven centuries in Hawaii and Florida Keys reveals that Native Hawaiian societies managed fisheries sustainably through local regulations and community involvement. The authors argue that incorporating ancient techniques into modern policy may be key to sustaining coral reef fisheries.

SourceStanford University·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateMar 23, 2012

Danes top international health study

A new international study on healthy heating found that Danes are most willing to accept economic interventions to promote healthy eating habits, with 70% prepared to pay more tax for healthier food. Danish consumers also show a positive attitude towards public authorities and high taxes, leading to higher support for nutritional changes.

SourceAarhus University·DateMar 23, 2012

Astronomers put forward new theory on size of black holes

Researchers suggest that highly massive black holes began growing rapidly in the early universe due to chaotic gas flows. By simulating gas discs orbiting a black hole at different angles, they found that collisions between these discs can lead to a significant increase in the black hole's mass.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 23, 2012

IOF Medal of Achievement awarded to Professor Cyrus Cooper

Professor Cyrus Cooper was awarded the IOF Medal of Achievement for advancing knowledge of osteoporosis through original and outstanding scientific contributions. He has led research programs on epidemiology, bone mineral accrual, and preventive strategies against hip fracture.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateMar 23, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

'Bed-of-nails' breast implant deters cancer cells

Researchers have developed a breast implant with a 'bed-of-nails' surface at the nanoscale that reduces cancer cell growth and promotes healthy endothelial breast cells. The implant's unique surface features deter cancerous cells from dwelling and thriving, offering a promising alternative to traditional treatments.

SourceBrown University·JournalNanotechnology·DateMar 23, 2012

Low serum adiponectin levels predict future risk for asthma in women

A study published by the American Thoracic Society found that low serum adiponectin levels are associated with a higher risk of developing asthma in middle-aged women. The research also suggests that raising systemic adiponectin concentrations could potentially prevent asthma in women who smoke.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 23, 2012

A shiny new tool for imaging biomolecules

Researchers embed artificial membranes with billions of nanoantennas to study cell signaling patterns and molecular interactions. The technique boosts fluorescent signals, enabling tracing of individual proteins and enhancing biomolecule imaging.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 23, 2012
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.

An extinct species of scops owl has been discovered in Madeira

A newly discovered fossil species of scops owl found in Madeira reveals that its extinction was linked to human arrival and habitat destruction. The findings suggest that human introduction led to disease transmission, invasive species, and habitat loss, contributing to the bird's demise.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalZootaxa·DateMar 23, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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