Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive April 2012


Page 2 of 29

From tiny grains of sand to the growth of a mountain range

Researchers uncover ancient deformation ages of the Dead Sea fault zone, linking them to climate change in Northern Hemisphere. In southern Patagonia, warming caused glaciers to retreat early, while microbes played a key role in ooid formation.

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.

Annals of Internal Medicine Tip Sheet for May 1, 2012 issue

Two new studies published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that younger women at increased risk for breast cancer may benefit from biennial mammography screening beginning at age 40. The data suggest that this approach has more benefits than harms for women with a two-fold increased risk. Meanwhile, hospital management strategies h...

A new drug to manage resistant chronic pain

A new drug, BL-7050, is being developed to manage resistant chronic pain caused by nerve or tissue damage. The medication targets potassium channels to prevent hyper-excitability and induce calm in neurons, offering relief to millions of sufferers.

Jarid2 may break the Polycomb silence

Researchers found that Jarid2, a component of the Polycomb repressive complex 2, occasionally activates gene expression in fruit fly embryos. This challenges the traditional view of Polycomb proteins as transcriptional repressors, suggesting a more complex role for PRC2 and its components in development and cancer.

Lymphoma therapy could deliver a double punch

Researchers have discovered a CD19-dependent pathway that contributes to the growth of B cell lymphomas. High levels of CD19 correlate with increased MYC activity, suggesting a new target for therapies currently in clinical trials.

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.

Courtship in the cricket world

A new study by the University of Bristol reveals that male tree crickets can change the frequency of their songs with temperature, allowing them to adjust their size. This allows males to increase sound power, which may be linked to attracting mates and disguising their true size.

Comparing apples and oranges

A new sensor developed at MIT can accurately measure the ripeness of fruits by detecting tiny amounts of ethylene gas. The sensor has the potential to help grocers and food distributors reduce waste and spoilage, with estimates suggesting a 30% reduction in losses.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cleveland Clinic-led study finds Lucentis and Avastin equivalent in treating AMD

A landmark study found that bevacizumab (Avastin) is equivalent to ranibizumab (Lucentis) in treating wet age-related macular degeneration through two years, with monthly dosing producing slightly more vision gain. The study showed similar visual results regardless of dosing frequency, with 60% of patients achieving driving vision.

Synthetic stool a prospective treatment for C. difficile

Researchers at Queen's University are developing a synthetic stool mixture that could replace stool transplants as a treatment for C. difficile. This new approach aims to eliminate the risk of transmitting infectious diseases through fecal bacteria, improve patient acceptance, and provide a single-dose remedy.

Not all altruism is alike, says new study

A new mathematical model predicts that creatures will help each other differently depending on resource scarcity, with defense and food-focused behaviors favored during times of scarcity and care for young during abundance. The study's results suggest that the benefits of altruism vary across different behaviors.

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.

Antimicrobial resistance for common UTI drug increases five fold since 2000

A study of over 12 million bacteria found that E. coli antimicrobial resistance to ciprofloxacin increased five-fold from 2000 to 2010, making treatment more expensive and complex for patients. The lack of new antimicrobial drug development is a major concern, as it may lead to the use of less effective and potentially toxic treatments.

Portable gas sensors improve atmospheric pollution measurements

Researchers have developed portable gas sensors that can monitor ozone, greenhouse gases, and air pollutants with high-resolution mapping capabilities. The sensors use various technologies, including laser sensors and deep ultraviolet LEDs, to detect small amounts of atmospheric gases.

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.

Arabic records allow past climate to be reconstructed

A study published in Weather journal has reconstructed past climate events in Iraq and Syria using ancient Arabic records. The research team found a high number of cold waves, droughts, and floods between 816-1009, with temperatures dropping as low as 18°C in July 920.

Obesity affects job prospects for women, study finds

A new study by The University of Manchester found that obese women face discrimination in the job market, receiving lower starting salaries than their non-overweight colleagues. Body image and conservative personalities were also linked to obesity discrimination.

Global warming refuge discovered near at-risk Pacific island nation of Kiribati

A new study reveals that ocean currents may mitigate warming near a handful of equatorial islands, including some in the nation of Kiribati. This finding has important implications for the survival of coral reef systems and provides hope for these at-risk Pacific islands to avoid the devastating effects of global warming.

Only 1 in 5 bike share cyclists wears a helmet

A study found that more than 80% of bike share riders in Boston and Washington D.C. do not wear helmets, putting them at risk for head injuries. The study suggests helmet use can reduce head injury by up to 88%.

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.

Darwinian selection continues to influence human evolution

A study analyzing church records of Finnish people from 1760-1849 found significant natural and sexual selection is still taking place in modern humans. The research suggests that men and women are not equally affected by Darwinian selection, with characteristics increasing mating success in men evolving faster.

Redefining time

Researchers successfully sent highly accurate clock signals across hundreds of kilometers using optical fiber links, overcoming challenges to transmit stable signals over long distances. The achievement brings scientists closer to redefining the second and enabling ultra-precise navigation and other applications.

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.

Researchers question pulling plug on pacifiers

A study by Oregon Health & Science University found that restricting pacifiers in a hospital setting decreased exclusive breastfeeding rates and increased formula consumption in breastfed infants. The researchers argue that the effect of pacifier use on breastfeeding has not been well-established, warranting further scientific inquiry.

GHSU researcher develops non-toxic dandruff shampoo

A new anti-dandruff shampoo using green tea polyphenols has been developed by GHSU researcher Dr. Stephen Hsu, eliminating toxic ingredients found in conventional shampoos. The product, ReviTeaLize, works by promoting the skin's metabolic equilibrium and shielding against autoimmune diseases.

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.

MSU invention could help pharmaceutical industry save money

Michigan State University researchers Merlin Bruening and Greg Baker have invented a high-performance membrane protein purifier that can simplify the process of isolating desired proteins. This innovation has the potential to reduce costs, speed up new drug development, and improve pharmaceutical efficiency.

Multitasking may hurt your performance, but it makes you feel better

A new study found that people engage in media multitasking despite knowing it impairs their performance, as it provides an emotional boost. The research recruited 32 college students to record their activities for four weeks, showing that multitasking was more likely when cognitive or habitual needs were present.

Protein heals wounds, boosts immunity and protects from cancer

Researchers have found that lactoferrin has various health benefits, including wound healing and protection from bacterial, viral, fungal and protozoal infections. The protein is also being explored as a potential therapeutic agent for cancer prevention and treatment.

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.

Risk factors may inform breast cancer screening

Researchers estimate that screening mammography for women aged 40-49 with a twofold increased risk level of breast cancer has similar benefits and harms as average-risk women who start biennial screening at age 50. Factors such as family history and dense breasts increase risk by twofold.

FANCM plays key role in inheritance

Researchers have identified FANCM's crucial role in recombination during genetic inheritance. The gene ensures ordered distribution and recombination of genetic material in germ cells of thale cress, a model organism.

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.

Huge study finds brain networks connected to teen drug abuse

A large study of 1,896 14-year-olds found differences in brain networks that precede drug use and are associated with impulsivity. The findings suggest that certain teenagers are at higher risk for drug experimentation due to their brain's structure and function.

Apartment dwellers often subjected to neighbors' tobacco smoke

Research shows that nearly one-third of apartment dwellers report smelling tobacco smoke in their buildings, with children being more vulnerable. A smoke-free building is crucial to protect shared indoor air, and residents receiving government housing subsidies are more likely to experience exposure.

2 drugs better than 1 to treat youth with type 2 diabetes

A combination of two diabetes drugs, metformin and rosiglitazone, was more effective in treating youth with recent-onset type 2 diabetes than metformin alone. The study found that adding intensive lifestyle intervention to metformin provided no additional benefit.

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.

Fight or flight: Violent teens may be following parents' lead

A recent study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that adolescent violence can be attributed to parental attitudes and behaviors. Teens who fight often model what they see adult relatives do, highlighting the importance of involving parents in prevention programs.

TV alcohol advertising may play role in underage drinking

A recent study presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies annual meeting found a significant link between recognition of TV alcohol advertisements and underage drinking. The study showed that 59% of underage youths previously drank alcohol, with those familiar with TV ads more likely to engage in binge drinking.

Teen-led study highlights dangers of texting and driving

A teen-led study using simulators found that texting while driving poses significant risks, with drivers making more mistakes when their phones are in view or hidden. The research suggests that there is no 'safe' way to text and drive, emphasizing the need for stronger laws and education.

Single nanomaterial yields many laser colors

A new prototype technology demonstrates all three primary laser colors coming from one material. This breakthrough could lead to making products such as high-performance digital displays that employ a variety of laser colors.

Breastfeeding is associated with a healthy infant gut

A new study published in Genome Biology reveals that breastfeeding leads to a wider range of beneficial microbes in the infant's gut compared to formula feeding. The research also shows that breastfed infants' immune systems have developed to cope with the differences, promoting intestinal stability and defense against pathogens.

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.

Orangutans harbor ancient primate Alu

Researchers have identified an ancestral Alu element in orangutan genomes, which has uniquely multiplied within the species. This discovery provides insights into primate evolution and diversity, with implications for understanding speciation processes.

A middle-ear microphone

Researchers have created a tiny, prototype middle-ear microphone that can be implanted in the ear to avoid problems with current cochlear implants. The device has been successfully tested in cadavers and aims to reduce size and improve sound detection abilities for future human testing.

Familiarity with television fast-food ads linked to obesity

A new study finds that adolescents and young adults who recognize TV ads for quick-service restaurants are more likely to be overweight. The researchers surveyed 3,342 youths ages 15 to 23 years and found that those who recognized more ads were over twice as likely to be obese compared to those who recognized few ads.

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.

Bioluminescent technology for easy tracking of GMO

A new bioluminescent real-time reporter (BART) technique combined with loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) detects genetically modified crops at 0.1% GM contamination levels, surpassing EU limits. This approach simplifies DNA extraction and detection, providing a field-ready solution for monitoring GMOs.