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Science News Archive 2012


Page 81 of 333

NASA sees light rainfall in Tropical Storm Nadine

Tropical Storm Nadine has weakened significantly with light rainfall surrounding its center of circulation, according to NASA's TRMM satellite data. The storm is expected to turn west and northwest as it moves around a high pressure area.

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.

Study: One-fifth of spine surgery patients develop PTSD symptoms

A recent study found that nearly 20 percent of people who underwent low back fusion surgery developed post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. The strongest factor in determining whether a patient suffered PTSD symptoms was a pre-surgery psychiatric disturbance, but some patients without such diagnoses also experienced symptoms.

UCSD-based Cancer Consortium receives 5-year, $20 million grant renewal

The UCSD-based Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Research Consortium will continue its critical work on understanding CLL's development and progression. The five-year grant will enable researchers to develop new drugs and treatments for the disease, which affects over 15,000 people annually in the US.

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.

GSA Today: Active faults more accessible to geologists

A new digital compilation of geological data provides valuable insights into the seismic hazards associated with active fault zones. The Active Tectonics of the Andes Database includes over 400 mapped faults and will allow geoscientists to better understand the long-term history and evolution of deformation in fault zones.

Three materials could hold the key to future hydrogen cars

Researchers are exploring three materials - magnesium borohydride, ammonia borane, and alkanes - that could be used to create a safe and efficient hydrogen storage solution. Hydrogen has great promise as an alternative fuel due to its abundance and energy content.

Chocolate makes snails smarter

Researchers found that a specific flavonoid in dark chocolate enhances the memories of pond snails, allowing them to learn and retain information more effectively. The study suggests that this compound may have potential cognitive benefits for humans as well, potentially improving learning and memory retention.

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.

African-American youth exposed to more alcohol advertising than youth in general

A new report from the Center on Alcohol Marketing and Youth reveals that African-American youth are being over-exposed to alcohol advertising, with certain brands and channels dominating their exposure. The report's findings highlight the need for immediate action to protect the health and well-being of young African Americans.

Genetic sleuthing uncovers deadly new virus in Africa

A new viral outbreak in Africa has been linked to the Bas-Congo virus, a previously unknown microbe that causes deadly acute hemorrhagic fever. Genetic analysis reveals the virus is distinct from other rhabdoviruses, including those causing rabies.

Simulations uncover 'flashy' secrets of merging black holes

Researchers used computer simulations to explore the mergers of supersized black holes, revealing a 'funnel-like structure' that could drive particle jets. The study sheds light on the universe's most extreme phenomena, including gravitational waves, black holes, and the death of stars.

Uptick in cinematic smoking

A new UCSF study reveals a significant uptick in cinematic smoking, with top-grossing films featuring nearly 1,900 tobacco incidents in 2011. The increase in onscreen smoking targeted young audiences, contributing to the risk of starting to smoke and developing tobacco-induced disease.

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.

Learning to overcome fear is difficult for teens

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that adolescents' brains have impaired fear extinction learning, making it difficult for them to overcome fear. This may explain why anxiety and depression rates surge during adolescence.

New fish species offers literal take on 'hooking up'

A new species of freshwater fish, Gambusia quadruncus, has been discovered in east-central Mexico with distinctive male genitalia and colorful female anal spots. These characteristics may play a role in mating control and success, offering insights into reproductive strategies in aquatic species.

Optical mammography sheds new light on breast cancer

A new optical imaging technology, developed at Tufts University School of Engineering, uses near infrared light to scan breast tissue and can identify water, fats, and oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor tissue. This non-invasive technique could complement standard mammography, particularly for women with dense breast tissue.

Sandia probability maps help sniff out food contamination

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories created a method to analyze food supply networks using stochastic network representation, which can help identify contaminated food sources more quickly. This technique uses probability maps to express uncertainties in supplier-customer relationships and assess the risk of foodborne illness.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mayo Clinic finds way to weed out problem stem cells, making therapy safer

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a way to detect and eliminate potentially troublemaking stem cells, making stem cell therapy safer. The new approach uses a chemotherapeutic agent that selectively damages the DNA of the stem cells, efficiently killing the tumor-forming cells without affecting healthy ones.

Study highlights the burden of epilepsy in the developing world

The burden of epilepsy in low- and lower-middle-income countries is substantial, with twice as many people affected than in higher income nations. Despite being a cost-effective disorder to treat, only 40% of those affected receive appropriate care due to factors such as stigma, cultural beliefs, and lack of skilled manpower.

Stanford bioengineers introduce 'Bi-Fi' -- The biological internet

Researchers at Stanford University have developed Bi-Fi, a biological internet that allows cells to communicate using DNA strands. This system increases the complexity and amount of data that can be transmitted between cells, paving the way for greater control over biological functions and potential applications in biosynthetic factories.

$20 billion for women's and children's health

A $20 billion funding boost has been made towards improving women's and children's health, with $10 billion already spent. The funding gap between initial pledges and actual spending remains significant, highlighting the need for better targeting of funds to areas of greatest need.

Peering to the edge of a black hole

Astronomers have measured the closest distance that matter can approach a black hole without being pulled in. The findings suggest that the accretion disk is spinning in the same direction as the black hole, providing new insights into gravity and space.

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.

New research in Science shows it's not too late for troubled fisheries

A new study published in Science magazine provides population assessments for thousands of data-poor fisheries worldwide, revealing that over half are in decline. However, the research highlights hope for recovery: most unassessed fisheries have not yet collapsed and can provide a significant seafood supply boost if managed sustainably.

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.

Popular HIV drug may cause memory declines

A Johns Hopkins research suggests that the commonly prescribed anti-retroviral drug efavirenz attacks brain cells, contributing to cognitive impairment. The study found that 8-hydroxyefavirenz is 10 times more toxic to brain cells than the drug itself.

How tribal courts can end war

In Enga, village court magistrates focus on restitution and 'restorative justice,' sending combatants home with compensation. The system has reduced violence and deaths, showing that indigenous means of conflict resolution can be more effective than Western law.

Single-site laparoscopic surgery reduces pain of tumor removal

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that single-site laparoscopic surgery reduced pain and narcotic use in kidney cancer patients. The study compared LESS with traditional multiport laparoscopy in 74 patients, showing a 40% reduction in pain rating and 50% less medication need.

Dynamics of DNA packaging helps regulate formation of heart

A new regulator for heart formation has been discovered by studying DNA packaging in embryonic stem cells. The researchers found that specific genetic regulators are activated at distinct times during the process of transforming stem cells into heart muscle cells, revealing potential insights into human development and organ repair.

Researchers investigate aggression among kindergartners

A study by Penn State researchers found that kindergartners' aggressive behavior can be attributed to varying levels of verbal ability and physiological arousal. The team identified two groups: one characterized by low verbal ability and the other by high emotional reactivity.

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.

An old drug finds a new use

UNM Cancer Center researchers have identified R-ketorolac as a potential treatment for ovarian cancer cells, using flow cytometry and computer modeling to target specific GTPases. Initial animal studies show promising results in controlling tumor growth.

IU research study finds social bullying prevalent in children's television

A new Indiana University research study found that social bullying is prevalent in children's television, with 92% of top programs featuring characters involved in social aggression. Social aggression was more likely to be enacted by attractive perpetrators and featured in humorous contexts, posing a risk for young viewers.

Newspaper sales suffer due to lack of stimulating content

A recent study published in the Journal of Mass Communication Quarterly found that readers are looking for more engaging content from newspapers. The authors suggest that journalists and practitioners focus on creating stimulating content to curb the decline in newspaper sales.

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.

Obesity-related hormone discovered in fruit flies

Scientists have identified a key metabolic hormone called leptin in fruit flies, which regulates energy intake and appetite. The discovery opens up new avenues for genetic research on the molecular mechanisms of fat sensing and could provide insights into obesity and diabetes.

The GOP has a feminine face, UCLA study finds

A UCLA study found that female politicians with stereotypically feminine facial features are more likely to be Republican, while those with less feminine features are more likely to be Democrat. The researchers used a computer model to analyze the faces of 434 House Representatives and found a strong correlation between facial features...

Major genetic discovery explains 10 percent of aortic valve disease

A new study has identified genetic origins of aortic valve disease affecting 10% of cases, shedding light on hereditary component and progression of the disease. The research found rare genetic variants linked to severe health effects and disease processes, with many affected patients carrying multiple variants.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Disappearing act

Researchers from Northwestern University and others demonstrate 'transient electronics' that dissolve in a well-controlled manner. These biocompatible devices could be used for medical implants, environmental monitors, or military applications, offering advantages over conventional electronics.

Napiergrass: A potential biofuel crop for the sunny Southeast

Researchers found that Napiergrass is a viable biofuel crop in the Southeast's southern tier, offering advantages such as continued biomass production until the first frost. Further studies are underway to improve yields, fiber content, and disease resistance.

Environment-friendly satellite navigation technology

GEKO NavSat has developed innovative technological solutions and products using advanced satellite navigation technologies, improving forest fire investigation methods. The company's social commitment includes creating lines of application for people with special needs, such as a guiding project for the blind.

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.

New way of fighting high cholesterol upends assumptions

Researchers have upended assumptions on how high cholesterol leads to inflammation and atherosclerosis. Desmosterol, a precursor to cholesterol, has been found to suppress inflammatory response genes and regulate cholesterol balance.

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.

Aggressive cancer exploits MYC oncogene to amplify global gene activity

Researchers have found that elevated expression of c-Myc amplifies the activity of all expressed genes in tumor cells, leading to increased transcription and proliferation. This discovery provides a simple explanation for how a single protein can have a profound effect in many types of cancer.

Rewriting the rules of teamwork

A team of MSU researchers will conduct a three-year study on how teams work together, using surveys, interviews, and high-tech devices to monitor interaction. The goal is to measure the effectiveness of both formal and informal structures when multiple teams are involved.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Ewiniar embedded in low pressure

Tropical Storm Ewiniar remains tropical despite being embedded in a subtropical area of low pressure off Japan's east coast. The storm is still experiencing strong convection and thunderstorms, with maximum sustained winds near 63.2 mph/102 kmh.

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.

Helicopter heroes save lives

A multi-centre study in France found that patients transported by helicopter had a lower risk of death compared to those transported by road. The benefit was seen even after adjusting for severity of injury. Helicopter transport saves lives for the most severely injured patients, despite being a costly and limited resource.

Next up: Electronics that vanish in the environment or the body

Researchers have developed biodegradable electronics that can dissolve in water or bodily fluids, opening new design paradigms for medical implants, environmental monitors and consumer devices. The technology harnesses techniques for making tiny electronic systems out of ultrathin sheets of silicon, which can completely dissolve in a f...