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Science News Archive April 2012 - Page 10


Page 10 of 29

Computing the best high-resolution 3-D tissue images

Researchers developed a computational technique to correct aberrations in optical tomography, enabling faster, less expensive and higher resolution tissue imaging. The technique was demonstrated using gel-based phantoms and rat lung tissue, resulting in sharp points and clearer tissue structures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

New guidelines: Treatments can help prevent migraine

The American Academy of Neurology issues new guidelines for preventing migraine, recommending several treatments including prescription drugs and over-the-counter options. These guidelines aim to address the underrecognition and undertreatment of migraine, with potential benefits in reducing attack frequency and severity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 23, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Towards an agroforestry policy in Indonesia

A historic workshop in Indonesia aimed to develop a national strategy on agroforestry research, identifying key challenges such as government partiality, land tenure insecurity, and trade-offs between conservation and development. Opportunities for agroforestry were also highlighted, including international support and knowledge sharing.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·DateApr 23, 2012

Palms reveal the significance of climate change for tropical biodiversity

Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered that climate change over millions of years shapes the composition of species assemblages in the tropics. The study reveals distinct differences in palm species diversity between South America and Africa, with South America boasting higher biodiversity due to its relatively stable climate.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

Making human textiles: Research team ups the ante with development of blood vessels woven from donor cells

A research team has developed a new technique for creating human textiles by weaving donor cells into blood vessels, promising to reduce production costs. The technology uses a combination of cultured cells and medical-textile-making techniques to create strong, biocompatible fibers that can be woven into various structures.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Fish larvae find the reef by orienting: The earlier the better

A team of female scientists from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science have developed a sophisticated numerical model to study fish larvae's navigation skills. The model uses reliable larval swimming speeds and vertical migration to create realistic scenarios that can be studied in detail.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

Brain surgery for epilepsy underutilized

A new study from UCSF found that brain surgery for epilepsy has not increased in the decade since a landmark clinical trial demonstrated its effectiveness. Despite this, thousands of Americans suffer from uncontrolled seizures each year, highlighting disparities by race and insurance status.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeurology·DateApr 23, 2012

Letting go can boost quality of life

A study by Concordia University found that breast cancer survivors who can redefined their goals show an overall improvement in well-being. The researchers measured the capacity to adjust goals and found a positive association with more physical activity, emotional well-being, and fewer physical symptoms.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateApr 23, 2012

Quantum physics mimics spooky action into the past

Physicists have demonstrated that quantum particles can be in an entangled state even after measurement, which was previously thought to be an objective fact. The team realized a 'delayed-choice entanglement swapping' experiment, where Victor's choice affected Alice's and Bob's photons after they had been measured.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Vitamin D: A double-edged sword in the fight against osteoporosis?

Researchers found vitamin D can promote bone density loss while maintaining normal serum calcium levels. The study suggests vitamin D supplements may not be effective in preventing fractures in elderly patients, and high doses could even increase fracture risk.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 23, 2012

Xenotransplantation as a therapy for type 1 diabetes

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have developed a genetically modified strain of pigs whose beta-cells can restore glucose homeostasis and inhibit human-anti-pig immune reaction. This breakthrough could potentially treat type 1 diabetes, overcoming the major barrier of immune rejection.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 23, 2012

Research is ensuring stormwater systems are designed for the future

Researchers at Kansas State University are updating rainfall distribution data to provide a more accurate benchmark for engineers designing stormwater systems. The study found that the state is experiencing more rain across its entire area, with more intense storms in the southeast region.

SourceKansas State University·DateApr 23, 2012

Scientists see solution to critical barrier to fusion

Researchers from DOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory discovered a possible solution to the density limit, a major impediment to harnessing fusion. Tiny, bubble-like islands in plasmas appear to be at the root of the problem, and injecting power directly into these islands could help reach the high temperatures needed for fusion.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Pain relief with PAP injections may last 100 times longer than a traditional acupuncture treatment

Scientists at UNC have developed a new method for delivering long-lasting pain relief through PAPuncture, which mimics the molecular mechanism behind acupuncture. The treatment has been shown to provide up to six-day pain relief in animal models and may be applicable to any area where regional anesthesia is performed.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalMolecular Pain·DateApr 23, 2012

That impulsive, moody preschooler may grow up to be a problem gambler

A longitudinal study of 900 individuals found that under-controlled temperament in early childhood is a significant predictor of disordered gambling in adulthood. Those with restless, impulsive, and negative behaviors were twice as likely to develop problems with gambling.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 23, 2012

Immunosignaturing: An accurate, affordable and stable diagnostic

Immunosignaturing uses random sequence arrays of peptides to trawl for antibodies to disease, producing a machine-readable image of immune activity that can be used to diagnose a broad range of ailments. The technique has been tested as a diagnostic for over 20 diseases and shows good correlation between serum and plasma samples.

SourceArizona State University·JournalClinical and Vaccine Immunology·DateApr 23, 2012

Birds cultivate decorative plants to attract mates

Researchers found male bowerbirds growing fruit-bearing plants around their bowers to attract females, using these fruits for decoration. The birds' preferred color of the fruit led to changes in plant selection over time.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

Life imitates art in health-care recruitment workshop

Dr. Fernando Antelo's workshop uses Frida Kahlo's artwork to stimulate interest in science and healthcare professions, highlighting her passion for science through her medical imagery. The ASBMB annual meeting in San Diego will feature Dr. Antelo's presentation on this innovative approach.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 22, 2012
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.

Avocado oil: The 'olive oil of the Americas'?

A Mexican study found that avocado oil's properties can increase yeast cell resistance to harmful free radicals. The antioxidants in avocado oil allow it to thrive even in high concentrations of iron, which produces a large amount of free radicals.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 22, 2012

A new diagnosis for Frida Kahlo's infertility

Researchers have diagnosed Frida Kahlo's infertility as Asherman's syndrome, a condition caused by scarring in the uterus following a traumatic injury. The diagnosis is supported by Kahlo's medical history and artwork, which show images of reproductive organs and fertility issues.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2012

NIH scientists link quickly spreading gene to Asian MRSA epidemic

Researchers found that the sasX gene is more prevalent in MRSA strains from China than previously thought, with its frequency increasing significantly over the past decade. The gene plays a pivotal role in establishing MRSA epidemics and may be involved in molecular processes that help bacteria spread and cause disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 22, 2012
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

'Housekeeping' mechanism for brain stem cells discovered

A molecular pathway that controls the retention and release of brain stem cells has been identified. The discovery reveals that this pathway is critical for the adhesion of stem cells to their niche and for stem cell maintenance, suggesting a new idea in understanding stem cell regulation.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 22, 2012

Keeping older drivers on the road

Researchers at Newcastle University are using a mobile laboratory car called DriveLAB to develop new technologies to support older drivers. The team is investigating in-vehicle systems that can help keep people driving safely into their 70s, 80s, and beyond.

SourceNewcastle University·DateApr 22, 2012

U of I study: Soy protein alleviates symptoms of fatty liver disease

A University of Illinois study found that soy protein reduces triglycerides and fat accumulation in the liver of obese rats. The researchers believe that soy protein isolate can alleviate the symptoms of fatty liver disease by partially restoring a key signaling pathway.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateApr 22, 2012

Avocado oil: The 'olive oil of the Americas'?

Researchers found that avocado oil protects yeast cells from damage caused by free radicals, increasing their resistance to oxidative stress. The study suggests that avocado oil may have a similar protective effect on human health, particularly for individuals with chronic degenerative diseases.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2012
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.

Treatment to benefit African infants at risk of endemic fever

A recent study found that infants in sub-Saharan Africa are at high risk of snail fever infection, which can cause impaired memory, thought, and internal organ damage. The study suggests that a common drug, praziquantel, can safely cure the infection in a single dose.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateApr 22, 2012

What did the scientist say to the sommelier? 'Show me the proof!'

A biochemist is presenting his approach to making science accessible to non-science majors through a cooking class. The class combines food preparation with scientific experiments, allowing students to explore the intersection of chemistry and biology in real-world applications.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 22, 2012

Forensic science used to determine who's who in pre-Columbian Peru

Researchers used mitochondrial and Y chromosome DNA analysis to determine family relationships and burial traditions of ancient Peru. The study found a 500-year continuity without major impact from European colonization, supporting the idea of ayllu-based communities based on kinship relationships.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Genetics·DateApr 22, 2012
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.

Obtaining key nutrients from canned foods can save consumers money

A market-basket study compared the cost of key nutrients from canned, fresh, frozen and dried varieties of common foods. Canned foods were found to be more affordable and convenient than their fresh counterparts, offering significant savings in terms of preparation time and nutrient content.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2012

Army researcher develops potential vaccine carrier

A new potential vaccine carrier, a microemulsion, has been developed by US Army Maj. Jean M. Muderhwa that is both stable and effective for delivering antigens. The microemulsion, composed of five components, has been found to be transparent and liquid, with no degradation after six months.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 22, 2012

Estrogen hormone reveals protective ability after traumatic brain injury

A study led by Dr. Joshua Gatson reveals that estrone, an estrogen hormone, promotes brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which supports cell survival after traumatic brain injury. The findings indicate a fresh avenue for future research on protective capabilities of estrogen hormones.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2012
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.

Seeking HIV treatment clues in the neem tree

Preliminary data suggests that neem compounds target the HIV protease, a protein essential for virus replication. Researchers hope that further studies will validate these findings and lead to new HIV-AIDS therapies.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 22, 2012

New yeast prion helps cells survive

Researchers at RIKEN Brain Science Institute discovered a yeast prion called Mod5 that confers survival advantages by granting cellular resistance to antifungal agents. The study reveals the active role of prion conversion in cellular fitness adaptation, providing new insights into the broader function of prions in living organisms.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2012

Unusual protein helps regulate key cell communication pathway

A new research at Washington University School of Medicine has shown how an unusual protein plays a key role in temporarily blocking the movement of ions through channels after a cell fires off an electrical signal. The researchers found that this protein nestles into a receptor inside the channel in a highly specific way, closing it a...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 22, 2012

New technique may help severely damaged nerves regrow and restore function

Researchers at University of Sheffield have developed a method to assist damaged nerves in repairing naturally, improving chances of restoring sensation and movement in injured limbs. The new technique uses biodegradable synthetic polymer to create guidance conduits that provide physical and chemical cues for nerve growth.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalBiofabrication·DateApr 22, 2012
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.

Not all today's students are 'tech savvy'

Research found that only a small minority of students don't use email or mobile phones, but most struggle with in-depth technology skills. Despite this, students often rely on technologies for social life and leisure rather than study purposes.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateApr 22, 2012

Chemists explain the molecular workings of promising fuel cell electrolyte

Researchers from New York University and the Max Planck Institute reveal that phosphoric acid fuel cells transfer protons in a more streamlined fashion than water-based solutions. This process involves temporary 'proton wires' formed by multiple phosphoric acid molecules, allowing for high proton conductivity.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 22, 2012

Changes in brain's blood flow could cause 'brain freeze'

Researchers link brain freeze to other headache types by studying blood flow in the brain. The study found that an abrupt increase in blood flow in the anterior cerebral artery triggers brain freeze and disappears when it constricts. This finding could lead to new treatments for various headache types.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 22, 2012
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.

Controlling heat flow with atomic-level precision

The researchers demonstrated that a single layer of atoms can disrupt or enhance heat flow across an interface between two materials. By adjusting the composition of molecules in contact with the gold layer, they observed a change in heat transfer depending on how strongly the molecule bonded to the gold.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 22, 2012

Tax on salt could reduce cardiovascular disease deaths by 3 percent

A new Harvard report presents preliminary data showing that taxing salt products or implementing industry reductions can lead to significant reductions in cardiovascular disease deaths. The study found that these strategies could save money by reducing healthcare costs associated with hypertension and CVD events.

SourceWorld Heart Federation·DateApr 21, 2012

Rheumatic heart disease is significantly under-treated in Africa and India

A global study presented at the World Congress of Cardiology reveals that patients with rheumatic heart disease are not receiving necessary surgery or secondary prevention treatments. In Africa and India, only 41% of patients enrolled had received surgery, highlighting a dire lack of surgical services available in most centers.

SourceWorld Heart Federation·DateApr 21, 2012
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.

ALS patients differ on treatment choices in later phases of disease

Researchers found that ALS patients who receive feeding tubes before emergency situations fare better, with longer median survival and lower mortality rates. Patients also have polarized preferences for expensive treatments like Riluzole, which modestly prolongs length of life.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateApr 20, 2012
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.

Tackling the European market of nanoimprint lithography

The EU nanoimprint lithography market is evolving rapidly, with numerous applications across industries. Key findings include the development of production tools and materials, and the potential up-scaling of nanoimprinting to large areas and high-throughput.

SourceCatalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)·DateApr 20, 2012

Range of diagnostic spinal fluid tests needed to differentiate concurrent brain diseases

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has demonstrated that a range of diagnostic spinal fluid tests are needed to differentiate between brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal lobar degeneration. The studies found that biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid, including tau and amy...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateApr 20, 2012