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Science News Archive 2012 - Page 150


Page 150 of 333

Controlling your computer with your eyes

Researchers from Imperial College London have developed a low-cost, 3D eye-tracking device that can track users' eye movements and allow them to control a cursor on a screen. The device has been shown to be effective in enabling people with disabilities to interact with computers and their surroundings using just their eyes.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateJul 12, 2012

From aflatoxin to sake

Researchers mapped genetic differences between domesticated fungus Aspergillus oryzae and its wild relative, finding extensive genome remodeling. The study suggests microbes undergo metabolic changes for desired functions rather than growth and form alterations.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 12, 2012

In adult humans, brown fat is actually beige

Researchers identified a third type of fat cell, beige adipocytes, that can be activated to burn energy and generate heat in both mice and humans. Beige fat cells are genetically intermediate between white and brown fat, and respond to hormone irisin, which is released during exercise.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 2012

Disentangling information from photons

Researchers develop tool to decompose photon pairs' superimposed states, enabling access to their information even with imperfect measurements. The findings suggest that higher entanglement levels can reveal more information, leading to more resilient quantum info applications.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJul 12, 2012

Solar storm protection

A new warning system can forecast radiation from solar storms nearly three hours in advance, allowing astronauts and air crews to take protective action. The system uses data from neutron monitors installed at the South Pole to estimate the intensity of high-energy particles that arrive on Earth first.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalSpace Weather·DateJul 12, 2012

New Au. sediba fossils discovered in rock

South African scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery of a large rock containing significant parts of a skeleton of an early human ancestor, believed to be the remains of 'Karabo', the type skeleton of Australopithecus sediba. The fossil will be unveiled live online and in a laboratory studio for the first time in history, allo...

Solar system ice: Source of Earth's water

A team of scientists led by Conel Alexander has found that carbonaceous chondrites, a type of primitive meteorite, are more likely to be the source of Earth's water than comets. This discovery contradicts prevailing theories and provides new constraints for understanding the origin of volatiles in the inner Solar System.

Viruses linked to algae that control coral health

Researchers have identified two viruses that infect symbiotic microalgae essential for coral growth and health. The presence of these viruses could be a contributing factor to the decline of coral reefs worldwide. Corals face various environmental threats, including warming temperatures, competition, and pollution.

SourceOregon State University·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJul 12, 2012

The challenges facing the vulnerable Antarctic

The Antarctic faces numerous challenges from human activity and climate change, including marine system impacts, invasive species, and pollution. The existing Antarctic Treaty System is being tested by growing tourism and resource use, highlighting the need for swifter decision-making and increased collaboration to conserve the region.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2012

Transforming cancer treatment

A Harvard researcher predicts that a multi-drug approach could make many cancers 'manageable' by targeting the KRAS gene. This strategy involves using at least two drugs to combat drug resistance, which currently limits targeted therapy's effectiveness.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJul 11, 2012

Retina transplantation improved by manipulating recipient retinal microenvironment

Researchers found that insulin-like growth factor (IGF1) enhances migration and integration of photoreceptor cells into the adult mouse retina by manipulating the retinal recipient microenvironment. This study suggests a potential novel strategy for retinal repair using stem cell replacement therapy.

Oral contraceptive use in girls and alcohol consumption in boys are associated with increased BP....

A large pregnancy follow-up study found that adolescent boys with higher alcohol consumption, girls using oral contraceptives, and both sexes with high salt intake and BMI had higher blood pressure levels. The study warns that these lifestyle behaviors can lead to adverse health consequences in adulthood.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJul 11, 2012