Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2012 - Page 25


Page 25 of 29

Treatment hope for muscular dystrophy

Researchers at the University of Melbourne have discovered a potential treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy by increasing levels of heat shock protein 72 in muscles, improving muscle strength and slowing disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

Single baby boomers facing increased challenges as they age

Unmarried baby boomers are disproportionately affected by economic and social outcomes, including lower economic resources, poorer health, and a higher prevalence of disability. They also face significant barriers to accessing health insurance.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 4, 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.

Sexual objectification of female artists in music videos exists regardless of race, MU study finds

A recent study found that sexual objectification of female artists in music videos is a pervasive issue across all genres, with African-American artists wearing more provocative attire. The research suggests that music videos can play a significant role in shaping young audiences' perceptions of attractiveness and value.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHoward Journal of Communications·DateApr 4, 2012

Your supermarket may affect your weight

A study of 7,131 participants in Paris found that shopping at discount supermarkets or in areas with poorly educated consumers is associated with higher body mass indices (BMI) and waist circumferences. Supermarket size and produce quality were not linked to BMI or waist circumference.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 4, 2012

Quantum computer built inside a diamond

Researchers at USC and international partners successfully built a quantum computer inside a diamond, showcasing solid-state computing's potential. The device protects against decoherence, a major obstacle to quantum systems, by utilizing microwave pulses to stabilize electron spin rotation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

First targeted nanomedicine to enter human clinical studies

Researchers have successfully tested the first targeted cancer drug called BIND-014, demonstrating its ability to target receptors in tumors and achieve high tumor concentrations. The study shows remarkable efficacy, safety, and pharmacological properties compared to traditional chemotherapy.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 4, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cone snail venom controls pain

Researchers have identified three active variants of a conotoxin that blocks the transmission of pain signals in nerves. These venomous peptides, derived from cone snails, show great promise for developing new painkillers with minimal dependency and faster degradation rates.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 4, 2012

A new MCAT for tomorrow's physician

A new medical college admission test (MCAT) is proposed to prioritize knowledge of behavioral and social sciences. The authors argue that this shift will help practicing physicians address modifiable behaviors contributing to premature deaths in the US.

SourceNIH/Office of the Director·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 4, 2012

Internet use promotes democracy best in countries that are already partially free

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that internet use is most effective in promoting democracy in countries with partial freedoms. In these nations, increased internet penetration and online activity drive demand for democratic reforms. However, the internet has limited impact in highly authoritarian regimes, where ruler...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Communication·DateApr 4, 2012
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.

Food science poised to help address needs of aging population

The aging baby boomer population is driving demand for food products that can help manage chronic conditions like diabetes, vision loss, and bone/joint problems. Food scientists are exploring ways to create healthier options, including clearly labeling foods as suitable for specific health needs.

SourceInstitute of Food Science & Technology·DateApr 4, 2012

CWRU raises wind-energy labs over Cleveland area

Case Western Reserve University has erected its third and largest wind turbine, a 1-megawatt utility-scale power generator, to provide working laboratories for researchers. The turbines are being used to develop better products and improve efficiency, with the ultimate goal of establishing a wind-energy supply chain in Northeast Ohio.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateApr 4, 2012

Does religious faith lead to greater rewards here on Earth?

A University of Miami study shows that religious individuals are more likely to delay gratification and prefer larger rewards over time. This ability is positively correlated with their commitment to religious teachings and institutions.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateApr 4, 2012

Mobile technology helps explore nicotine addiction

A team of researchers used mobile devices to collect data on nicotine addiction and found that successful quitters had a weaker association between their urge to smoke and their ability to quit. The study suggests that baseline nicotine dependence and negative emotional states influence people's urge to smoke while trying to quit.

SourcePenn State·JournalPrevention Science·DateApr 4, 2012
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.

Antibody therapy prevents gastrointestinal damage following radiation exposure in mice

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have discovered an antibody therapy that prevents lethal gastrointestinal damage following radiation exposure in mice. The treatment, which targets ceramide molecules, improved survival rates from 0% to 80% among mice exposed to high levels of ionizing radiation.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 4, 2012

Disarming disease-causing bacteria

Research discovered a protein complex called the Translocation and Assembly Module (TAM), which forms a molecular pump allowing bacteria to shuttle disease-causing molecules from inside to outside the bacterial cell. This finding paves the way for designing new drugs that inhibit this process, potentially preventing antibiotic resistance.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 4, 2012

Free apps drain smartphone energy on 'advertising modules'

Researchers at Purdue University found that popular free apps spend up to 75% of their energy tracking user location, sending info to advertisers and downloading ads. A new tool called eprof analyzes app energy consumption, revealing a way to improve energy efficiency by reducing power drain in interactive programs.

SourcePurdue University·DateApr 4, 2012

New £13 million UK Centre for CCS Research to be established

A new £13 million UK Centre for Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Research will be established to drive innovative research and development. The centre, coordinated by the University of Edinburgh, aims to support the UK economy by driving an integrated research programme focused on maximising CCS contribution to a low-carbon energy system.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateApr 4, 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.

Reproductive seasonality observed in male giant pandas

A study of eight male giant pandas found that reproductive fitness varies throughout the year, with waves of activity occurring 3-5 months before most females display estrus. This new understanding will help improve captive panda management and potentially aid in reintroducing pandas into the wild.

SourceSociety for the Study of Reproduction·JournalBiology of Reproduction·DateApr 4, 2012

Consumers need simple, concise messages about benefits of phytonutrients

The Institute of Food Technologists' Wellness 12 meeting highlighted the need for simple language to communicate phytonutrient benefits. Phytonutrients, such as beta carotene and lycopene, promote health when consumed as part of a balanced diet. The industry must agree on clear messages and present them consistently to consumers.

SourceInstitute of Food Science & Technology·DateApr 4, 2012

Research demonstrates bacterial contamination in pharmacy robots

A study discovered Bacillus cereus bacteria in a pharmacy robot's washing station, contaminating intravenous drugs. The contamination highlights the need for strengthened cleaning and maintenance procedures to prevent life-threatening infections.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 4, 2012

Defying conventional wisdom, water can float on oil

Scientists have discovered that water can float on oil under certain conditions, depending on the size of the droplet and type of oil. This finding has important potential applications in cleaning up oil spills.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateApr 4, 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.

Dino eggs shape Easter eggs, says new study

Researchers have discovered that different species of dinosaurs had distinct egg shapes, with some being more elongate and symmetrical than bird eggs. This new research has significant implications for understanding the origins of modern Easter eggs.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPalaeontology·DateApr 4, 2012

Growing nitrous oxide levels explained

Researchers have generated a 65-year record of Southern Hemisphere nitrous oxide measurements to better understand the long-lived greenhouse gas's impact on climate and stratospheric ozone depletion. The study found a 20% increase in atmospheric nitrous oxide since 1750, largely attributed to agricultural sources.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 4, 2012

Fasting for Lent forces hyenas to change diet

Spotted hyenas adapt to changing human food sources during the 55-day Abye Tsome (Lent) fast, shifting from scavenging to hunting, with donkey hairs found in their droppings increasing significantly during Lent

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateApr 4, 2012
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.

Genetic mutations at conception linked to many cases of autism

A recent study by Yale University researchers found that approximately 15% of autism cases in families with a single autistic child are associated with spontaneous genetic mutations. The study analyzed DNA sequencing data from 238 families and identified hundreds of de novo sequence variations linked to an increased risk for autism.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

Scientists solving the mystery of human consciousness

A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that primitive brain structures activate before neocortex when individuals regain consciousness after general anesthesia. This discovery provides new insights into the emergence of consciousness and its relationship with brain function.

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateApr 4, 2012

A cannibalistic galaxy with a powerful heart

The closest large elliptical galaxy to the Milky Way, Centaurus A has a twisted disc of dust near its centre, formed from a cosmic collision with another galaxy. The galaxy's powerful heart features two massive jets streaming from a massive black hole, emitting strong radio emission and visible in far-infrared images.

SourceUK Space Agency·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 4, 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.

In-school tests suggest overweight boys and girls benefit from being fit

A new study suggests that improving or maintaining physical fitness helps obese and overweight children reach a healthy weight. The research found that students who were initially underfit became fit, leading to a healthier weight, with benefits seen in both boys and girls.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalObesity·DateApr 4, 2012

62 percent of men and 37 percent of women over the age of 65 are sexually active

A study of 1,939 elderly people in Spain found that 62.3% of men and 37.4% of women are sexually active, with common practices including kisses, caresses, and vaginal penetration. Factors limiting sexual activity include physical illness, widowerhood, age, education level, and health perception.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateApr 4, 2012
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.

Gene mutation identified as contributor to autism spectrum disorders

A new study by UCLA researchers has discovered a single instance of two independent mutations disrupting the SCN2A gene in affected siblings, confirming its importance. The study found multiple variations between unaffected and affected groups, making promising new candidates for autism susceptibility genes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

Eating flavonoids protects men against Parkinson's disease

A new study published in Neurology finds that consuming flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins found in berries, can significantly reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Male participants who ate the most flavonoids were 40% less likely to develop the disease than those who ate the least.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNeurology·DateApr 4, 2012

Thawing permafrost 50 million years ago led to global warming events

Researchers propose that thawing permafrost 50 million years ago released massive amounts of carbon into the atmosphere, triggering global warming events. The study suggests a simple new mechanism for past global warming events and highlights the potential for similar feedback loops in modern times.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012
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.

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.

Sexually abused boys at risk for more unsafe sex: UBC research

According to UBC research, young males who have been sexually abused are five times more likely to cause teen pregnancy compared to those with no abuse history. Sexually abused boys are also three times more likely to have multiple sexual partners.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateApr 4, 2012

Is rainfall a greater threat to China's agriculture than warming?

New research reveals that rainfall has a greater impact on China's agriculture than rising temperatures. The study, published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, found that maize is sensitive to warming but not as affected by rainfall variability as previously thought.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateApr 4, 2012

Researchers develop a new cell and animal model of inflammatory breast cancer

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have developed a new cell and animal model of inflammatory breast cancer, which may provide a better understanding of the disease and help with developing effective interventions. The model recapitulates aggressive metastasis and cancer stem cell activity associated with poor outcomes in patients.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateApr 4, 2012
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.

Vanderbilt researchers help reveal complex role of genes in autism

A multi-institutional team of researchers has identified two genes as 'genuine risk factors' for autism spectrum disorders. The study, published in Nature, used massively parallel sequencing to search for mutations that might affect autism risk and found that these genes are functionally related and physically interact with each other.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

Rising CO2 levels linked to global warming during last deglaciation

Researchers reconstruct global surface temperatures and find that average temperature correlated with rising CO2 levels, indicating the greenhouse effect played a key role in ending the last Ice Age. The study provides evidence that CO2 caused much of the global warming, contrasting previous efforts that only examined local temperatures.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

Mutations in 3 genes linked to autism spectrum disorders

Researchers identified CHD8, SNC2A, and KATNAL2 gene mutations as risk factors for autism. The studies provide a better understanding of the genetic changes and biological pathways involved in autism spectrum disorders.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2012

New forage plant prepares farmers for climate changes

A new sorghum plant has been developed that can withstand drought and produce toxins without harming animals. The breakthrough is expected to provide farmers with a reliable source of food during droughts, saving hundreds of millions of dollars annually.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateApr 4, 2012

Facilitating the work of forensic scientists

The Metabolomips group has developed a methodology for detecting gunshot residues, which can produce reliable analyses within an hour. They have also created a method to identify antipsychotic drugs in the human brain, with potential applications in forensic analysis and post-mortem diagnostic tests.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateApr 4, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Korean connection makes an 8,000-km telescope

Australians and Koreans have linked their radio telescopes for the first time, creating a gigantic telescope spanning over 8,000 km. The combined system has 100 times the resolving power of the Hubble Space Telescope, enabling scientists to study distant galaxies in unprecedented detail.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateApr 4, 2012