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Science News Archive December 2011 - Page 11


Page 11 of 23

Small reactors could figure into US energy future

A new study suggests that small modular reactors (SMRs) could play a significant role in the future of US nuclear power generation. The report concludes that SMRs would be highly advantageous for various sectors in the US, stimulating high-valued job growth and restoring US leadership in nuclear reactor technology.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateDec 13, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Thermotherapy rids azaleas of deadly fungal disease

Researchers discovered that submerging azalea cuttings in 50°C water eliminates the deadly fungal disease. The study found that all 12 cultivars were tolerant of short submersion durations, making hot water treatment a viable alternative for disease control.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 13, 2011

New path to flex and stretch electronics

Researchers develop cost-effective technique for fabricating flexible and stretchable backplanes using semiconductor-enriched carbon nanotube solutions. The technology enables the creation of artificial electronic skin capable of detecting and responding to touch.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 13, 2011

Asparagus benefits from X-ray treatment

Research on low-dose X-ray irradiation reveals significant reduction in aerobic bacteria and mold/yeast populations, while maintaining sugar levels in asparagus. The study found that X-ray treatment can enhance consumer safety by decreasing the number of viable microorganisms.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 13, 2011

Inspired by insect cuticle, Wyss Institute develops material that's tough and strong

Researchers at the Wyss Institute have developed a new material called Shrilk that replicates the exceptional strength and versatility of insect cuticle. With its unique mechanical and chemical properties, Shrilk could be used to replace plastics in consumer products, suture wounds, and serve as scaffolding for tissue regeneration.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 13, 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.

Largest ever gas mix caught in ultra-freeze trap

Researchers created a record-breaking gas mixture of Lithium 6 and Potassium 40 using an ultra-freeze trap, increasing the number of atoms under study to a few billion. This breakthrough will aid in simulating subatomic-scale phenomena and understanding quantum mechanical effects in neutron stars.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateDec 13, 2011

Picture book portrays a 'hoppy' future for endangered frogs

A picture book portrays the life cycle and challenges of a threatened frog species in Arizona, sparking enthusiasm for conservation among children. The book, written by an ASU microbiologist, aims to educate kids about biology, ecology, and overcoming obstacles, while promoting conservation efforts.

SourceArizona State University·DateDec 13, 2011

Online brand comments: How do they affect consumer decisions?

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that online brand comments impact consumer attitudes differently depending on the tone and number of comments. Promotion-focused individuals react to gain-related information, while prevention-focused ones respond to loss-related information.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 13, 2011

High-energy physicists set record for network data transfer

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology and international partners have achieved a new world record for data transfer at a combined rate of 186 gigabits per second, equivalent to moving two million gigabytes per day. This milestone is crucial for dealing with massive amounts of data coming from the Large Hadron Collider.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateDec 13, 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.

A novel mechanism regulating stress is identified

Researchers at Tufts University have discovered a novel mechanism regulating stress response in the brain, involving neurosteroids and specific receptors. Blocking these receptors may lead to new approaches for managing stress-related disorders such as depression, epilepsy, and obesity.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·DateDec 13, 2011

Prognostic model developed for MDS related to prior cancer therapy

A new prognostic model developed by researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center has identified three risk groups for patients with treatment-related myelodysplastic syndrome, each with different survival prospects. The model incorporates multiple factors, including age, cytogenetics, and serum hemoglobin levels,...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateDec 13, 2011

First electronic optical fibers with hydrogenated amorphous silicon are developed

A new chemical technique has been developed to deposit a non-crystalline form of silicon into ultra-thin pores of optical fibers. This allows for the creation of more-efficient and flexible optical fibers with hydrogenated amorphous silicon, ideal for applications such as solar cells and telecommunications.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 13, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

In third-degree burn treatment, hydrogel helps grow new, scar-free skin

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a hydrogel treatment that promotes new blood vessel formation and tissue regeneration, yielding scar-free skin in mouse tissue tests. The treatment has the potential to greatly improve healing for injured soldiers, home fire victims, and others with third-degree burns.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2011

American Cancer Society revises cancer screening guideline process

The American Cancer Society has revised its guideline formation process to prioritize transparency, consistency, and scientific rigor. The new process involves a systematic evidence review, independent writing group, and clear articulation of benefits, limitations, and harms associated with cancer screening tests.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJAMA·DateDec 13, 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.

Improved rainwater harvesting system promising

A new study published in HortScience finds that the Ridge-Furrow-Ridge Rainwater Harvesting (RFRRH) system with mulches increases soil water content, crop yield, and reduces labor costs. The system also manages weed control without irrigation.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 13, 2011

New relationship important for the mental health of widowers

A unique Swedish study of 691 widower men showed that finding a new partner within four to five years of losing their wife significantly reduced the risk of developing depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. In contrast, those who remained single faced higher risks and were more likely to use sleeping pills and antidepressants.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateDec 13, 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.

Social exclusion among shift workers and older people

A study by Dr Matt Barnes found that two-thirds of workers work at unusual times, limiting their leisure time and social interactions. Older people, particularly those living alone, experience poor social relations and social exclusion, with many spending hours alone each day.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateDec 13, 2011

Study finds warfarin underutilized in women

A large study group of Kentucky women found that only 30% were receiving warfarin for atrial fibrillation. The study suggests warfarin anticoagulation treatment is underutilized in this population, but not due to economic or educational disparities.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateDec 13, 2011

Nostalgic consumers are more likely to give to charity

A recent study found that nostalgia increases both tangible donations and global intentions for charity appeals, suggesting it can foster empathy and encourage charitable behavior. The researchers used five studies to investigate the relationship between nostalgia and charitable giving, with positive results.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateDec 13, 2011

Important international collaboration with University of Guam researcher

Researchers from the University of Guam and Japan are collaborating on a new method for controlling sweet potato weevil pests using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques. The team has successfully developed traps containing fungal spores, which have shown high effectiveness in reducing weevil populations.

SourceUniversity of Guam·DateDec 13, 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.

Nanoparticles help researchers deliver steroids to retina

Researchers at Wayne State University, Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins have developed a targeted drug delivery system using nanoparticles called dendrimers. This system reduced neuroinflammation in the retina and protected vision by preventing injury to photoreceptors.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalBiomaterials·DateDec 13, 2011

Do consumers prefer brands that appear on their Facebook pages?

Consumers tend to favor brands that appear on their own Facebook pages, even if they don't consciously notice it. This phenomenon, known as implicit self-referencing, is linked to high self-esteem and positive associations with one's online identity.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 13, 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.

Sugar pump in plants identified

Researchers have discovered a protein family known as SWEET that plays a crucial role in transporting sucrose from leaves to other parts of the plant. The discovery could lead to increased crop yields and improved protection against pests, potentially even shedding light on human diseases like diabetes and obesity.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2011

Reprogramming brain cells important first step for new Parkinson's therapy

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have successfully reprogrammed astrocytes into dopamine-producing neurons, a crucial step towards treating Parkinson's disease. The study demonstrates conversion efficiency of up to 18%, paving the way for novel reprogramming strategies to treat Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 13, 2011

Molecular pathway may help reduce damage after heart attack

Researchers have discovered a molecular pathway that can help reduce cardiac damage caused by an enlarged heart, a common result of hypertension or a heart attack. The pathway, activated by stretch of adult cardiac cells, promotes the release of VEGF, which protects cardiac function and keeps cells alive.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 13, 2011
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Life after cigarettes

Smokers who quit successfully experience noticeable improvements in quality of life, including higher scores on overall well-being and positive emotions. After three years, quitters also report fewer stressors and increased satisfaction with their lives.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateDec 13, 2011

Risk of stillbirth associated with factors known early in pregnancy

Previous research on stillbirth has identified strong associations between reproductive factors, health conditions, and socio-demographic characteristics. The study found that these factors significantly increase the risk of stillbirth, highlighting the importance of early prenatal care and monitoring for women with known risk factors.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJAMA·DateDec 13, 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.

Scientists discover why buttercups reflect yellow on chins

Researchers found that buttercup flowers' bright yellow reflection is due to their unique petal structure, which doubles the gloss through two flat surfaces and an air gap. The study provides insight into how flowers attract pollinators like bees.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInterface·DateDec 13, 2011

Major cause of chronic kidney disease-related inflammation is identified

A study by UC Irvine researchers found that CKD causes depletion of adhesive proteins in the intestines, leading to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular complications. The findings could lead to novel treatments to curb this inflammation and its adverse consequences.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateDec 13, 2011

Mothers' weight before and during pregnancy affects baby's weight

A new study found that both pre-pregnant weight and weight gain during pregnancy are important predictors of babies' birthweight. Women with higher education levels had the highest offspring birthweight, highlighting the importance of a healthy weight before conception and moderate weight gain during pregnancy.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateDec 13, 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.

Insulin signaling is distorted in pancreases of Type 2 diabetics

A new study reveals altered insulin signaling in the pancreas of Type 2 diabetics, resulting in a decrease in beta cell production and quality. The distorted signals disrupt the replication process of beta cells, leading to a major defect in insulin secretion.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 13, 2011

Opioid abuse linked to mood and anxiety disorders

A new study found that individuals with mood and anxiety disorders are more likely to abuse opioids. Non-medical prescription opioid use was associated with an increased risk of developing any mood disorder, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and all anxiety disorders. Early identification and treatment of mood and anxiety di...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateDec 13, 2011

JDRF-funded study seeks to reduce cardiovascular risk

The REMOVAL study aims to test whether metformin can prevent or reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications in people with type 1 diabetes. The five-year trial will follow 500 patients and examine the effects of metformin on blood glucose control, treatment satisfaction, and other complications.

SourceJDRF·DateDec 13, 2011
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.

Increased arm swing asymmetry is early sign of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease patients exhibit increased arm swing asymmetry and reduced coordination, which can be easily detected early with inexpensive accelerometers. This method may enhance early diagnosis and treatment opportunities, and researchers plan to further investigate its effectiveness.

SourcePenn State·JournalGait & Posture·DateDec 13, 2011

Visualization of DNA synthesis in vivo

A new substance, F-ara-Edu, labels DNA with little to no impact on genome function, allowing for the visualization of DNA synthesis in vivo. This approach enables the identification of virus infection and cancerous growth sites due to abundant DNA replication in these tissues.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2011

Trudeau Institute announces latest discovery in vaccine development

Researchers at the Trudeau Institute have discovered a new properties of a potential vaccine adjuvant that suggests it could be useful for enhancing protection against a number of different infections. The discovery provides a promising lead for developing a new class of vaccines.

SourceTrudeau Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 12, 2011

The disappearance of the elephant caused the rise of modern man

Researchers found that the loss of elephant bones at Gesher Benot Ya'aqov site may have imposed significant nutritional stress on Homo erectus. This led to a shift towards hunting smaller prey, which is evident in the physical appearance of modern humans and suggests their emergence in the Middle East 400,000 years ago.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 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.

Working moms feel better than stay-at-home moms, study finds

Mothers working part-time jobs tend to have fewer symptoms of depression and better overall health than those who stay at home. They also show no significant differences in parenting involvement or family life support compared to full-time working mothers.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateDec 12, 2011

Novel export-inhibitor shows promise for treating CLL

A new drug, KPT-SINE, targets CRM1 protein to restore normal cell death pathways in cancer cells. This study provides proof-of-concept data for phase I clinical testing of KPT-SINE in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and related diseases.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·DateDec 12, 2011