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Science News Archive 2012


Page 32 of 333

Offering a reward can improve visual awareness in stroke patients

A study by Imperial College London and Brunel University researchers found that stroke patients with spatial neglect performed better when offered a financial reward. The findings suggest new behavioral therapies for stroke patients and highlight a brain system that can be targeted by drugs.

Newly discovered effects of vitamin D on cancer

Researchers at McGill University discovered vitamin D's molecular basis for potential cancer prevention effects. Vitamin D inhibits cMYC production and function, slowing cell proliferation and potentially slowing cancer progression.

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.

Star Trek Classroom: The next generation of school desks

A three-year project at Durham University has found that collaborative learning increases both fluency and flexibility in mathematics, while using interactive smart desks can have benefits over traditional paper-based activities. The new 'Star Trek classroom' also encourages active student engagement and equal access.

The smell of white

Scientists have created a blended scent, known as 'Laurax,' which spans the entire range of human olfaction and is perceived as neutral. This breakthrough challenges conventional wisdom on how our sense of smell works.

New risk factor identified for high blood pressure during pregnancy

Researchers have found that a specific enzyme, CYP2J2, is overexpressed in women with preeclampsia, contributing to the development of high blood pressure. Inhibiting this enzyme reduced disease symptoms in animal experiments, suggesting a potential new treatment for preeclampsia.

Scientists report a potential new treatment to prevent strokes

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a potential new treatment to prevent strokes in high-risk patients. Using ultrasound scanning, they found that tirofiban, an anti-platelet drug, can suppress microemboli in patients who have developed clots despite previous treatment with aspirin.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

ESF awards 14th European Latsis Prize to Professor Uffe Haagerup

Professor Uffe Haagerup received the 14th European Latsis Prize for his pioneering work in operator algebra, a field with significant applications in quantum field theory. The prize recognizes his unique achievements and contributions to mathematics, solidifying his reputation as a leading mathematician.

Relaxation good therapy for hot flushes in post-menopausal women

A study conducted by Elizabeth Nedstrand and Lotta Lindh-Åstrand found that applied relaxation therapy reduced hot flushes in postmenopausal women by half. The treatment also showed improvements in quality of life, particularly in memory, concentration, sleep, and anxiety.

Why older people struggle to read fine print -- new study

Researchers discovered that older adults rely more on holistic cues to identify words, making it easier for them to comprehend text. This finding contradicts the common belief that older adults struggle with reading due to declining visual sensitivity.

Better blood transfusions for preterm babies

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have made a promising breakthrough in reducing adverse inflammatory responses to blood transfusions in preterm babies. By understanding the mechanisms behind these responses, they aim to improve blood transfusion safety and reduce complications.

Magnesium oxide: From Earth to super-Earth

A team of scientists discovered a new high-pressure solid phase of magnesium oxide, which challenges traditional definitions of mantle and core material. This finding suggests that young or hot planets can generate and sustain magnetic fields.

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.

Spanish scientists design a revolutionary data storage device

University of Granada researchers have developed an Advanced Random Access Memory (A-RAM) device that overcomes miniaturization challenges in DRAM cells, enabling long retention times and low battery consumption. The innovation has been patented and demonstrated experimentally, with companies like Samsung and Hynix showing interest.

Study reveals the proteins expressed by human cytomegalovirus

Researchers used ribosome-mapping technique to investigate HCMV's proteome, discovering hundreds of previously unidentified proteins and exceptionally short protein sequences. These findings provide new understanding of how the virus manipulates human cells during infection.

Undisturbed excitation with pulsed light

Scientists have developed a method to prevent 'light shifts' in atomic energy levels using pulsed radiation. The 'hyper' Ramsey excitation scheme suppresses the effect, allowing for more accurate measurements and potentially greater accuracy in optical clocks.

Muscle powers spearing mantis shrimp attacks

Researchers discovered that some mantis shrimp species use muscle to propel their spears, unlike their larger cousins which rely on ballistics. The study found that smaller mantis shrimps use a spring-loaded catapult mechanism.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Repurposed' anti-parasite drug shows promise as new TB treatment: UBC research

Researchers from the University of British Columbia have discovered that a well-established family of anti-parasite drugs can be repurposed to effectively treat tuberculosis, including drug-resistant forms. The study highlights the potential for investing in research to find new uses for approved drugs and synergistic combinations.

Adults with ADHD commit fewer crimes when on medication

A recent study of over 25,000 individuals with ADHD found that criminal behavior dropped sharply during periods of medication use. The study showed a significant 32% risk reduction for medicated individuals compared to those not taking medication.

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.

Blind patient reads words stimulated directly onto the retina

Researchers successfully streamed braille patterns directly into a blind patient's retina using the Argus II device. The patient accurately read four-letter words and showed excellent spatial resolution, demonstrating the potential for improved reading capabilities with future iterations of the implant.

Le Rouge et le Noir: Where the black dahlia gets its color

Research reveals that black dahlia flowers accumulate more anthocyanins due to low flavone concentrations, leading to their distinctive dark color. This finding could be used to engineer plants with tailored flavone contents, as the suppression of flavone formation is an effective mechanism.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

UK Flusurvey set to go viral

The annual UK Flusurvey aims to collect data from men and women of all ages on flu symptoms, trends, and risk factors. Researchers hope to uncover if 'man flu' is real and explore the impact of pets on reported flu-like illnesses.

Stem cells develop best in 3-D

Scientists from the Danish Stem Cell Center found that stem cells grow better in three-dimensional environments, leading to improved insulin-producing cell development. This discovery holds promise for improving diabetes treatment with cell therapy.

Fetuses yawn in the womb, according to new research

New research from Durham University found that over half of mouth openings in fetuses were classified as yawns, suggesting a developmental process linked to fetal health. Yawning declined in frequency after 28 weeks gestation, potentially providing another indicator of the unborn baby's health.

Kidney tumors have a mind of their own

A team of researchers at St. Michael's Hospital has discovered multiple ways kidney tumours can achieve the same result – namely, grow. By examining chromosomal changes, methylation, and gene expression, they identified specific regions where genetic alterations occur in kidney cancer.

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.

When conservation goes genomics: Finding needles in a haystack

A research team has identified genetic markers for the Bornean elephant using cutting-edge DNA sequencing methodology. The discovery opens new avenues for conserving other endangered species with limited genetic diversity. The study, published in PLOS ONE, marks a significant breakthrough in conservation efforts.

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.

Uncovering complexity

A single type of neuron in Caenorhabditis elegans nerve cord encodes an entire sensorimotor loop, with feedback driving motion itself. The discovery reveals a sophisticated system allowing the worm to organize its movements through proprioceptive feedback.

Brain waves encode rules for behavior

Researchers identified groups of neurons that encode specific behavioral rules by oscillating in synchrony with each other. The study found that the nature of conscious thought may be rhythmic, and that disruptions in brain waves could contribute to neurological disorders such as schizophrenia.

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.

Engineers pave the way towards 3D printing of personal electronics

Researchers at the University of Warwick create a simple and inexpensive conductive plastic composite that can be used to produce electronic devices using low-cost 3D printers. The material enables users to lay down electronic tracks and sensors, allowing for the creation of touch-sensitive areas and custom-designed devices.

Early birds had an old-school version of wings

The study reveals that early bird ancestors had more primitive wing designs, with simpler feathers that were different from those of modern birds. The researchers believe that these early wings may have worked effectively for gliding and high-speed flapping flight, but not for low-speed flight or ground takeoff.

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.

Dwarf planet makemake lacks atmosphere

Astronomers have discovered that dwarf planet Makemake lacks a significant atmosphere, revealing new insights into its composition. The study used observations of Makemake passing in front of a star to determine its size, density, and albedo, with findings comparable to dirty snow.

New structures self-assemble in synchronized dance

Scientists have developed a way to create dynamic microtubes by synchronizing the movement of tiny Janus spheres. This process allows for the formation of intricate structures with potential applications in medicine and engineering.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Gateway enzyme for chemicals from catnip to cancer drug

Researchers have identified an enzyme used in nature to produce powerful chemicals from catnip, which could be used to create a more affordable and effective cancer treatment. The discovery also has potential applications in agriculture, as the enzyme's product can disrupt aphid breeding cycles or repel them from crops.

MRI shows brain disruption in patients with post-concussion syndrome

Researchers discovered changes in brain connectivity after mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), which may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of post-concussion syndrome. The study found decreased functional connectivity in the posterior network of the brain, correlated with neurocognitive dysfunction.

New hope for understanding autism spectrum disorders

A study in mice found that abnormally high synthesis of neuroligins results in symptoms similar to those diagnosed in ASD. The researchers also discovered that compounds inhibiting protein synthesis or targeting neuroligins can rectify autism-like behaviors in adult mice.

Drug resistance biomarker could improve cancer treatment

A study identified a biomarker that can predict responses to cancer drugs and offers a way to treat drug-resistant tumors. The researchers discovered that inhibition of MED12, a gene mutated in cancers, causes drug resistance by enhancing signaling through the TGF-beta receptor.

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.

Parrots imitate individuals when addressing them

Researchers found that parrots imitate unique calls to initiate conversations with specific individuals, responding more frequently and faster when mimicking an individual's call. In the wild, this ability helps orange-fronted conures communicate effectively in dynamic flocks.

Neural interaction in periods of silence

Researchers have developed a novel methodology called NET-fMRI to map widespread neural networks activated by local events. The study reveals that short periods of recurrent ripples in the brain are closely associated with reproducible cortical activations and extensive activity suppression in other brain structures.

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.

Organizations collaborate to support research on arthritis and aging

The Arthritis National Research Foundation (ANRF) and American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) have collaborated to support research on the role of aging in the development of arthritis. The grant aims to expand our understanding of the connections between aging and arthritis, moving closer to effective treatments and cures.

Computer-navigated total knee replacement

A new study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that computer-navigated total knee replacement had the same results as conventional procedures in terms of knee function, alignment, and durability. The study followed 520 patients for 10-12 years and found no significant differences between the two groups.

Deconstructing the redemptive power of 'bearing witness'

The study finds that Jewish-Israeli children of Holocaust survivors and Cambodian-Canadians reject the idea of inherited trauma, instead embracing their parents' memory as a source of empowerment. Cultural values and worldviews play a significant role in shaping responses to trauma.

An antidote for hypersomnia

Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a substance in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with primary hypersomnia, a disabling and poorly understood sleep disorder. Treatment with flumazenil has restored alertness in some patients, suggesting a potential new approach to therapy.

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.