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Science News Archive December 2011 - Page 19


Page 19 of 23

Blasting cancer from the inside out

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a radioactive wire that destroys tumors from the inside out, creating an immunity against cancer return. This innovative method, called DARTTM, has shown promising results in pre-clinical trials and is now being commercialized for clinical trials.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalTranslational Research·DateDec 6, 2011

With mutation, you can have your cream and eat it, too

A study found that individuals carrying a mutant gene associated with high HDL cholesterol can more efficiently clear triglycerides from their system. This discovery provides new insights into the role of glycosylation in lipid metabolism and has implications for the treatment of heart disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 6, 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.

Insecticides an increasing problem in future for streams in Europe

A new study predicts that Europe's streams will be heavily polluted with insecticides in the future, particularly in Scandinavia and Central Europe. The researchers recommend drastically reducing pesticide use and setting up buffer zones to mitigate this issue.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalEcological Applications·DateDec 6, 2011

Combating counterfeit medicines

Counterfeit medicines pose significant health risks, and experts argue that the World Health Organization (WHO) should play a key role in combating them. The authors propose an international treaty on medicine quality under WHO auspices to address this issue.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 6, 2011

Addressing pain and disease on the fly

Researchers at Brandeis University discover that fruit flies use two forms of TRPA1 to sense warmth and chemicals, providing potential solutions for chronic pain and disease control. The study's findings have implications for developing bug sprays and traps to combat mosquito-borne diseases.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalNature·DateDec 6, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New study suggests US presidents often live longer than men of their era

A new study suggests that US presidents tend to outlive their contemporaries by accessing better healthcare and accumulating wealth and knowledge. This disparity in life expectancy is attributed to factors such as improved medical care and higher educational attainment among presidents compared to the general male population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 6, 2011

Solar storms could sandblast the moon

Computer simulations by NASA scientists predict that solar storms and Coronal Mass Ejections can significantly erase the lunar surface, removing a surprising large amount of material. This process, called sputtering, becomes dominant during CMEs due to increased density and velocity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 6, 2011

Study finds new triple drug combination increases tumour eradication in HER2-positive breast cancer by more than 50 percent compared with standard treatment

A new triple drug combination has been shown to increase tumour eradication in HER2-positive breast cancer by more than half, with 46% of patients achieving a pathological complete response. The treatment was well-tolerated and did not significantly increase side effects or cardiac risk compared to standard therapy.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateDec 6, 2011

Elusive ultrafine indoor air contaminants yield to NIST analysis

Researchers at NIST tracked and analyzed ultrafine particles emitted by household appliances, revealing that coagulation, deposition, and ventilation play a significant role in their fate. The study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of these tiny air contaminants and their impact on indoor environments.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAerosol Science and Technology·DateDec 6, 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.

Study suggests flexible workplaces promote better health behavior and well-being

A flexible workplace initiative improved employees' health behavior and well-being by increasing the amount and quality of sleep, better health management, and reducing work-family conflict. Employees participating in the initiative reported significant improvements in sleep quality, energy levels, and self-reported health.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateDec 6, 2011

$3 million awarded for research and training

The University of Missouri has received a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation to train scientists in neutron scattering techniques. The program will focus on three areas of research and provide hands-on training at the university's Research Reactor facility.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateDec 6, 2011

Study finds failure points in firefighter protective equipment

Researchers discovered that temperatures and heat fluxes exceeding polycarbonate performance limits can cause lens degradation, exposing firefighters to toxic gases and burns. The study aims to inform efforts to improve the match between standard requirements and real-life conditions.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateDec 6, 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.

Study: Tiger Woods' superstar status hobbled the competition

Research by Northwestern University economist Jennifer Brown found that when Tiger Woods played in a tournament, other golfers' scores were substantially worse compared to tournaments where Woods did not play. This phenomenon, known as the 'superstar effect,' suggests that superstars can be a disincentive to competition.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateDec 6, 2011

Baby see, baby do?

Researchers from Concordia University found that infants can differentiate between trustworthy and untrustworthy sources. In a series of experiments, infants were shown to imitate actions from reliable adults more frequently than those from unreliable adults. This study contributes to the understanding of infant cognition and social le...

SourceConcordia University·JournalInfant Behavior and Development·DateDec 6, 2011

UK burden of injury is 2.6 times higher than previously thought

A study published in PLOS Medicine estimated that the absolute burden of injury in the UK is much higher than previously estimated, with 1,771,486 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) related to injury in 2005. The majority of injuries were unintentional, and home was the most frequent location of injury.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 6, 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.

Psychology researcher finds that power does go to our heads

Research finds that power influences people's thinking style in a flexible way, adapting to situations. North American individuals with higher socioeconomic status exhibit more analytical thinking than those with lower SES.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateDec 6, 2011

Computer simulations shed light on the physics of rainbows

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a new method for simulating rainbows, including primary, secondary, and twinned rainbows, using improved models of light interaction with water drops. The study provides an almost complete picture of how rainbows form, shedding new light on their physics.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateDec 6, 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.

Random noise helps make signals clearer

A new model shows that stochastic resonance occurs when the potential has sufficiently steep walls, but breaks down otherwise. This phenomenon could contribute to improving image resolution and understanding of biological systems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateDec 6, 2011

Stem cell research in the UK reaches significant milestone

Researchers at King's College London have made a breakthrough in developing xeno-free human embryonic stem cell lines that are suitable for public benefit. The lines will be grown and processed by the UKSCB to provide stem cell stocks for clinical research and treatment.

SourceKing's College London·DateDec 6, 2011

NASA's TRMM satellite sees the power in Tropical Storm Alenga

Tropical Storm Alenga formed in the Indian Ocean, with NASA's TRMM satellite capturing heavy rainfall rates over 50 mm per hour. The storm is expected to intensify before weakening again as it becomes an extra-tropical storm, moving into a hostile environment.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 6, 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.

Olympic success: Intangible benefits worth up to $3.4 billion

A new study reveals Canadians are willing to pay up to $3.4 billion for Olympic success, with intangible benefits vastly outweighing operating costs. The 'Own the Podium' program's benefits were estimated using a nationally representative survey of Canadians.

SourceUniversity of Alberta - Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation·DateDec 6, 2011

Study of Yellowstone wolves improves ability to predict their responses to environmental changes

Researchers tracked wolf characteristics in Yellowstone National Park from 1998 to 2009, finding that some traits are related to population ecology, while others are genetically determined. The study developed a new model to predict wolf responses to environmental conditions, which suggests that mean environmental changes impact wolf p...

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2011

Most US presidents live beyond average life expectancy

A study by University of Illinois at Chicago demographer S. Jay Olshansky found that most US presidents live longer than expected for men of their same age and era. On average, a president's lifespan was 79.8 years during the first eight presidencies

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA·DateDec 6, 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.

Scientists discover how brain corrects bumps to body

Researchers identified the primary motor cortex as the key brain area responsible for correcting movement after external knocks, which may help explain why some stroke patients improve while others remain uncoordinated. This finding could support first-stage sensory rehabilitation to rebuild pathways and improve movement skills.

SourceQueen's University·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2011

Low vitamin D levels may contribute to development of Type 2 diabetes

A recent study found that low vitamin D levels are significantly more prevalent in obese children and associated with risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Poor dietary habits such as skipping breakfast and increased soda and juice intake were also linked to lower vitamin D levels.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 5, 2011

Nervous system activity may predict successful weight loss

A recent study found that resting muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) is a significant independent predictor of weight-loss outcome in overweight or obese subjects. Successful weight losers demonstrated large increases in nerve activity following a carbohydrate test meal.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 5, 2011

Follow-up of 100,000 women in over 100 breast cancer trials shows chemotherapy reduces breast cancer mortality by a third

A meta-analysis of 123 randomised trials involving 100,000 women with breast cancer shows that modern chemotherapy regimens reduce breast cancer mortality by around one-third compared to no chemotherapy. The findings suggest that standard 1980s chemotherapy regimens could produce a reduction of almost a quarter in breast cancer mortality.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 5, 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.

Researchers at GIS develop systematic approach for accurate DNA sequence reconstruction

Researchers at GIS developed a systematic approach for accurate DNA sequence reconstruction using the Opera algorithm, providing a quality guarantee and scaling to large datasets. This breakthrough enables more complete and accurate draft genomes, driving genetic studies of organisms of interest for human health and other areas.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Computational Biology·DateDec 5, 2011

Wayne State receives NIH grant to study numerical processing in infants with FASDs

A team of Wayne State University researchers will investigate how fetal alcohol spectrum disorders affect infant numerical processing using event-related potentials. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment for children with FASDs, a condition with long-term effects on neurocognitive development.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateDec 5, 2011

Researchers find confidence is key to women's spatial skills

Researchers found that boosting a woman's confidence makes her better at spatial tasks like parking and map-reading. A study by the University of Warwick discovered that confidence levels play a key role in women's ability to perform these tasks, suggesting skills can come more easily if a woman feels good about herself.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateDec 5, 2011
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Parents' views sought on childhood obesity risk

A new UK website aims to raise awareness about childhood obesity prevention and gather parents' opinions on identifying at-risk babies. Research found that healthcare professionals, particularly GPs, need more training on early signs of obesity and providing advice on feeding habits.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 5, 2011

Giant super-earths made of diamond are possible

Researchers at Ohio State University found that carbon-rich planets could form with a core and mantle, but these cores would be very carbon-rich and mantles dominated by diamond. This means no geothermal energy, plate tectonics, or magnetic field on such planets.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 5, 2011

Ancient dry spells offer clues about the future of drought

New research suggests ancient Meso-American civilizations amplified droughts by clearing rainforests, leading to significant precipitation decline. Ancient dry spells also occurred in the Northeast, with major droughts lasting up to 500 years, hinting at a potential future of severe water shortages.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 5, 2011

Dust storms affect subsequent emergency hospital admissions

A new study found that dust storms significantly increase the risk of hospital illnesses for respiratory illness, especially in patients with COPD. The study showed a 5% increase in risk 2 days after a dust storm episode, highlighting the need for timely warnings to avoid air pollution exposure.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateDec 5, 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.

Can companies, political groups or organizations have a single mind?

A study by Adam Waytz and Liane Young found that people judge groups as having a collective mind, while attributing individual minds to their members. This 'trade off' affects judgments of responsibility, blame, and moral judgment. The research explores the consequences of this attribution for both groups and individuals.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 5, 2011

A more ethical way to compare epilepsy treatments

A new research methodology demonstrates that converting patients from one anti-epileptic drug to another is well-tolerated, effective and safe. The study shows that using historical control groups instead of traditional control groups can address ethical concerns in clinical trials.

SourceSpringer·JournalNeurotherapeutics·DateDec 5, 2011

Concerns about teen sexting overblown, according to new UNH research

Two UNH studies found that only 2.5% of youth surveyed participated in sexting in the past year, and most cases involving teens were handled thoughtfully by law enforcement without treating them like sex offenders. The studies also revealed that images rarely circulated online, with two-thirds staying on cell phones.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 5, 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.

When the heat's on, fish can cope

Researchers discovered that some tropical fish can adjust to higher sea temperatures by transmitting information between generations. This allows them to cope with elevated water temperatures, but may have penalties such as smaller offspring and reduced reproduction rates.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 5, 2011

Old recipe making a come back

Baltic scientists have reinvented the centuries-old sourdough bread-making technique, which was used in ancient times, to meet the needs of the modern food industry. The project FERMFOOD found ways to deliver a better flavor, texture and longer shelf life while maintaining dietary fiber and reducing additives.

SourceEUREKA·DateDec 5, 2011

Defensive measures: Toward a vaccine for Ebola

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a plant-derived vaccine for Ebola that provided strong immunological protection in a mouse model. The vaccine uses a DNA blueprint to convert tobacco plants into living pharmaceutical factories, producing a vaccine molecule that can be easily purified and administered.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2011

Tiny genetic variation can predict ovarian cancer outcome

A tiny genetic variation in the KRAS oncogene can predict ovarian cancer outcomes and response to treatment, with women carrying the variant being three times more resistant to standard chemotherapy. The biomarker also increases the risk of poor outcomes in other types of cancer.

SourceYale University·JournalOncogene·DateDec 5, 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.

'Double tsunami' doubled Japan destruction

Researchers found that a 'merging tsunami' doubled in intensity over rugged ocean ridges, amplifying its destructive power before reaching shore. This discovery helps explain how tsunamis can cross ocean basins to cause massive destruction at some locations while leaving others unscathed.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 5, 2011