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Science News Archive 2011


Page 28 of 311

Supercool

Researchers found that water changes its molecular structure to form 'intermediate ice' at -55 F, allowing it to remain liquid below the traditional freezing point. The discovery sheds light on atmospheric scientists' need to predict global climate patterns and how much solar radiation is absorbed by atmospheric water and ice.

Public restrooms ripe with bacteria, study says

Researchers found diverse bacterial communities in public restroom surfaces, with human skin being the primary source of bacteria. The study suggests that proper hygiene practices can help identify and mitigate the spread of pathogens through contaminated building surfaces.

How drought-tolerant grasses came to be

A new grass family tree reveals that the C4 photosynthetic pathway has evolved in grasses over 20 times within the last 30 million years. The study suggests that once C4 evolution occurs, it's unlikely to reverse, making scientists interested in engineering this pathway into drought-tolerant crops.

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.

UMMS scientists present draft sequence of monarch butterfly genome

Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School have sequenced the monarch butterfly genome, revealing an estimated 16,866 protein-coding genes involved in its seasonal migration. The study provides new insights into the genetic and regulatory elements underlying this remarkable journey.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tiny levers, big moves in piezoelectric sensors

Researchers have integrated a highly efficient piezoelectric material into a silicon microelectromechanical system, enabling significant advances in sensing, imaging, and energy harvesting. The new material, PMN-PT, delivers two to four times more movement with stronger force than rival materials, while using only 3 volts.

Enhanced treatment of brain tumors

A new treatment combination of radiation therapy and LY2109761 blocks TGF-β signaling pathways, slowing down tumor cell self-renewal and growth. This combination therapy improved outcomes in animal models and has the potential to delay glioblastoma progression in patients.

Genetic study confirms: First dogs came from East Asia

A recent genetic study confirms that the wolf ancestors of modern dogs came from southern East Asia, contradicting theories placing their origins in the Middle East. The research, led by Dr. Peter Savolainen, analyzed Y-chromosomal DNA and found strong evidence supporting an Asian origin for dog domestication.

Physicists set strongest limit on mass of dark matter

Researchers from Brown University report that dark matter must have a mass greater than 40 GeV to explain the universe's accelerated expansion. This limits potential weakly interacting massive particle (WIMP) candidates, which were previously suggested by other experiments.

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.

Mice with fewer insulin-signaling receptors don't live longer

A new study from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio challenges the idea that lacking a copy of the IGF1 receptor gene would increase life span. Knocking out one copy of the gene failed to lengthen male mice lifespan, with only modest increases in female mice.

Earth's core deprived of oxygen

A team of scientists led by Yingwei Fei found that oxygen is not a major component of the Earth's liquid outer core, contradicting previous models. The discovery has significant implications for understanding the planet's formation through accretion of dust and clumps of matter.

Introducing the monarch butterfly genome

The monarch butterfly's genome has been fully sequenced, offering insights into its long-distance migration. The study reveals genes responsible for vision, circadian clocks, and juvenile hormone synthesis, essential for extended lifespan and navigation.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Incidences and severity of prostate cancer correlated with meat consumption

A study published in PLOS ONE found that increased consumption of ground beef or processed meat is positively associated with aggressive prostate cancer. The research team suggests that this result is due to increased levels of carcinogens in meat prepared using high heat methods, such as grilling or barbecuing.

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.

Hopkins scientists turn on fountain of youth in yeast

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have successfully manipulated yeast life span by removing and restoring a protein function related to aging. By restoring this function, the organism's life span is dramatically extended. The discovery reveals molecular components of an aging pathway that appears related to one regulating longevity in humans.

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.

Insect cyborgs may become first responders

Researchers at the University of Michigan are developing insect 'cyborgs' that can power sensors and communications equipment, allowing them to monitor hazardous situations before human intervention. The devices harness kinetic energy from wing movements, enabling the insects to gather vital information in confined environments.

Finger (mal)formation reveals surprise function of desert DNA

Researchers at EPFL and University of Geneva uncover a genetic mechanism that modulates gene activity through seven enhancers, leading to diversity in finger shapes. This discovery could help understand hereditary malformations and evolutionary variations in the animal kingdom.

New butterfly species identified in Yucatan peninsula

Researchers used DNA barcoding to discover several previously undiscovered butterfly species in the Yucatan peninsula, correcting four cases of mistaken identification. The study showcases the utility of this method in characterizing biodiversity.

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.

Scientific sleuths pinpoint the guilty coral killers

Researchers have developed a method to diagnose coral diseases using quantitative-PCR technology, which can detect pathogens at low levels. This will help control the impact of disease on coral reefs affected by rapid coastal development, declining water quality, and climate change.

Diabetes drug shows promise in reducing risk of cancer

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that metformin prevents tumors from growing in human cultures, providing biological evidence for its potential to reduce the risk of diabetes-associated cancers. The research suggests that metformin may be used as a preventive drug for individuals with Type-2 diabetes.

Big pest, small genome

Researchers sequence the two-spotted spider mite's genome, revealing genes capable of detoxifying pesticides and plant toxins. This breakthrough sheds light on how these pests counteract plant defenses and provides new insights for developing targeted pesticides.

Closer to a cure for eczema

Researchers have identified six yeast-killing peptides that target Malassezia sympodialis without harming human skin cells. These peptides could provide a potential new treatment for atopic eczema, increasing patients' quality of life. Further study is needed to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

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.

The scoop on the dangers of snow shoveling

A study published in Clinical Research in Cardiology found that snow shoveling was associated with a significant proportion of heart problems among patients, particularly males with a family history of coronary artery disease. The study identified three key risk factors: gender, family history, and smoking.

Exercise helps us to eat a healthy diet

A new study reveals that physical activity is linked to an improvement in diet quality, leading to more successful weight loss treatments. Exercise also modifies the brain's executive functions, enabling better control of appetite and food choices.

Dreaming takes the sting out of painful memories

Researchers at UC Berkeley found that dream sleep helps process emotional experiences, removing the edge from painful memories. During REM sleep, stress neurochemicals are suppressed, allowing the brain to connect and integrate memories in a more rational state.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Mite-y genomic resources for bioenergy crop protection

Researchers are utilizing genomic data to create novel pest-control strategies, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and environmental pollution. The study focuses on the biology of the two-spotted spider mite, exploring its ability to develop pesticide resistance and potential applications in crop protection.

Spider mite's secrets revealed

The sequenced spider mite genome provides insights into its feeding frenzy, pesticide resistance, and web-making abilities. The study reveals the genetic basis for these traits, including the acquisition of bacterial genes that enhance digestion and detoxification.

Doctors can do better if they learn from their mistakes

A team of researchers found that doctors who learned from both successes and failures performed better in making treatment choices. They used fMRI imaging to detect characteristic brain patterns for high performers and low performers, showing a correlation between attention to failed treatments and better performance.

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.

Blossom end rot: Transport protein identified

A team of researchers has identified a protein that facilitates the radial transport of calcium ions from the root to the shoot, resolving a long-standing mystery. This breakthrough could lead to new strategies for preventing blossom end rot and other nutrient deficiencies in crops.

Robojelly gets an upgrade

Researchers at VirginiaTech have improved Robojelly's performance by introducing a flexible margin, reducing folding and increasing speed. The upgrade provides new insights into jellyfish propulsion mechanisms, enabling the robot to detect chemical spills, monitor ships and submarines, and observe fish migration.

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.

Great Lakes fish feed on invading shrimp

Researchers found that several native fish species have incorporated the bloody red shrimp into their diet over multi-seasonal periods. The study suggests these fish are adapting to the invasive species, alleviating concerns about its impact on native populations.

Surprising pathway implicated in stuttering

A new study found that mutations in a gene called NAGPA, which affects lysosomal function, are associated with persistent stuttering. The research provides evidence that impairment in cellular recycling centers may play a role in causing some people to stutter.

UO chemists develop liquid-based hydrogen storage material

Researchers at the University of Oregon have developed a boron-nitrogen-based liquid-phase storage material for hydrogen that works safely at room temperature and is air- and moisture-stable. The new material features clean, fast, and controllable hydrogen desorption without any phase change.

On the road to plasmonics with silver polyhedral nanocrystals

Researchers have discovered a way to self-assemble uniform polyhedral silver nanocrystals into densest packings and exotic superlattices, opening the door to simpler fabrication of plasmonic materials. The technique uses gravity-driven sedimentation and allows for precise control over superlattice dimensions.

Arginine restores T-cell ability to target cancer

A recent study published in Clinical Cancer Research found that arginine supplementation can reactivate cancer-fighting T-cells in patients with glioblastoma. This is achieved by replenishing the amino acid arginine, which is depleted due to persistent neutrophil activity. The result is an improved immune response against cancer cells.

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.

A tiny flame shines light on supernovae explosions

A team of researchers performed new 3-D calculations to better understand the complex conditions driving Type Ia supernovae. The simulations provide insight into the deflagration-to-detonation transition process, which is crucial for calculating cosmic distances and understanding the evolution of the universe.

New class of drugs for the reversible inhibition of proteasomes

Scientists have identified a new class of drugs that target the proteasome in a unique way, leading to potential breakthroughs in cancer medication. The newly discovered hydroxyurea structures work more specifically than existing proteasome inhibitors, reducing severe adverse side effects.

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.