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Science News Archive August 2012 - Page 3


Page 3 of 29

Researchers identify potential treatment for cognitive effects of stress-related disorders

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified a potential medical treatment for the cognitive effects of stress-related disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The experimental drug S107 prevented learning and memory deficits associated with stress-related disorders in a PTSD mouse model.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell·DateAug 30, 2012

Chocolate: A sweet method for stroke prevention in men?

A new study has found that eating moderate amounts of chocolate each week may be associated with a lower risk of stroke in men. The study, which included over 37,000 Swedish men, found that those who consumed the most chocolate had a 17% lower risk of stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 29, 2012

Eyeless Australian fish have closest relatives in Madagascar

Two groups of blind cave fishes from Australia and Madagascar are each other's closest relatives, descending from a common ancestor separated by continental drift nearly 100 million years ago. The study identifies new species that add to existing biological evidence for the existence of Gondwana.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 29, 2012

Heatwaves to move toward coasts, study finds

A new study by Scripps researchers suggests that California heatwaves are changing due to global warming, with more humid and intense heatwaves emerging in coastal areas. The increasing trend has significant implications for the state's population living near the ocean, who may not be prepared for extreme heat despite being accustomed ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 29, 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.

Earphones 'potentially as dangerous as noise from jet engines,' according to new study

A new study by the University of Leicester found that high volumes of sound from earphones can damage nerve cell coatings, leading to temporary deafness. The researchers identified a pathway from exposure to loud noises to hearing loss and believe their findings could bring significant healthcare benefits.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2012

'Nano machine shop' shapes nanowires, ultrathin films

A new method, called laser shock-induced shaping, enables the tuning of nanowires by altering electrical and optoelectrical properties critical for electronic components and instruments. Graphene was also successfully shaped using this technique.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 29, 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.

Mount Sinai researchers solve mystery surrounding the death of two sisters nearly 50 years ago

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have identified the genetic cause of Winchester syndrome, a rare and fatal bone disease, by studying frozen skin cells taken from a child in 1969. The MT1-MMP gene mutation leads to severe arthritis and osteoporosis, rendering patients incapable of movement without assistance.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 29, 2012

Many trendy 'microgreens' are more nutritious than their mature counterparts

A recent study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that many popular 'microgreens' have more vitamins and healthful nutrients than their fully grown counterparts. The research analyzed 25 varieties of microgreens, revealing wide variations in nutrient levels among the plants tested.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 29, 2012

Sweet result from ALMA

Astronomers using ALMA detected glycolaldehyde, a simple form of sugar, in the gas surrounding a young binary star. This discovery suggests that the building blocks of life existed in this system at the time of planet formation.

SourceESO·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 29, 2012

Sweet building blocks of life found around young star

Researchers have observed glycolaldehyde molecules, a simple form of sugar, in the gas surrounding a young star. This discovery suggests that the building blocks of life were already present during planet formation. The finding was made using the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) telescope and provides insights into the possibility...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 29, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MRI scanners affect concentration and visuospatial awareness

Standard head movements during MRI scanner exposure temporarily lower concentration and visuospatial awareness, particularly in tasks requiring high working memory. This may have implications for surgeons and other healthcare staff.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateAug 29, 2012

Soaking up the Sun

Researchers from Drexel University and The University of Pennsylvania are exploring ways to improve the efficiency, durability, and affordability of dye-sensitized solar panels. They aim to streamline electron transfer processes using carbon nanotubes and replace liquid electrolytes with more effective polymers.

SourceDrexel University·DateAug 29, 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.

Malaria nearly eliminated in Sri Lanka despite decades of conflict

Researchers credit adaptability and flexibility in Sri Lanka's malaria control program with its success in reducing cases by 99.9% since 1999. The program adapted to protect displaced populations and distributed long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, sustaining key prevention and surveillance activities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 29, 2012

African-American males most likely to lose academic scholarships, MU study finds

A University of Missouri researcher found that African-American males are the most likely to lose state lottery-funded scholarships with academic stipulations. The study suggests that colleges and universities should target minority students and provide institutional support to promote higher retention rates.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Education Finance·DateAug 29, 2012

For diabetics, a steady job is good for your health

A steady job is associated with improved medication adherence and reduced risk of non-adherence among working-age diabetics. Lack of employment increases stress, financial strain, and access barriers, leading to lower adherence rates.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalHealth Outcomes Research in Medicine·DateAug 29, 2012

Climate change could increase levels of avian influenza in wild birds

Researchers found that climate change could disrupt the interactions between ruddy turnstone shorebirds and horseshoe crabs at Delaware Bay, leading to increased avian influenza infection rates. This could drive up the infection rate in resident ducks, potentially spreading novel subtypes among North American wild bird populations.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 29, 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.

New antibacterial coating for sutures could reduce infections after surgery

Scientists have discovered a new antibacterial coating for sutures that is nearly 1,000 times more effective than the most widely used commercial coating. The coating, designed from naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides, kills a wide range of bacteria and has a low chance of causing resistance.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateAug 29, 2012

Warning on deterioration of famous Swedish warship, Vasa

Scientists warn that the famous Swedish warship Vasa is deteriorating due to significant loss of strength in its wooden hull. The study found that the ship's wooden structure weakened by up to 80 percent, potentially threatening its preservation for future generations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateAug 29, 2012

Gold standards of success defined for AF ablation

New guidelines set minimum acceptable success rates for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation, with 50% success rate expected at 12 months. Long-term outcome data shows only 40-50% of patients remain free of recurrent AF after 5 years.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2012

Aging kidneys may hold key to new high blood pressure therapies

Researchers at the University of Houston are exploring how aging kidneys affect sodium balance and blood pressure, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for hypertension. Exercise training builds up strong anti-inflammatory environments, improving kidney functions during aging.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 29, 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.

Tracing the Paralympic movement's 'freak show' roots

Historical analysis reveals the Paralympic movement's problematic roots in 19th-century freak shows, where disability was objectified and exploited. Researcher Danielle Peers argues that the movement prioritizes able-bodied leaders over athletes' contributions, perpetuating paternalism and erasure.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Sport and Social Issues·DateAug 29, 2012

New study evaluates noninvasive technology to determine heart disease

A new study published in JAMA found that noninvasive CT scanning technology combined with fractional flow reserve can improve diagnostic accuracy for heart disease. The DeFACTO study involved 252 patients from 17 centers worldwide, showing improved detection of coronary artery disease using this approach.

SourceMinneapolis Heart Institute Foundation·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateAug 29, 2012

Climate change stories from the abyss

A team of researchers recovered sediment cores from the Pacific Ocean, revealing fluctuations in the carbonate compensation depth over millions of years. The findings suggest that climate development and carbon cycle interactions were more complex than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 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.

ASA, CSSA, and SSSA present 2012 scholarships and fellowships

The American Society of Agronomy (ASA), Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), and Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) have presented 2012 scholarships and fellowships to support undergraduate students in agriculture, including the Hank Beachell Future Leader Scholarship and the J. Fielding Reed Scholarship.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateAug 29, 2012

WSU/USDA scientist creates test, treatment for malaria-like sickness in horses

A rare but deadly infection, similar to malaria in humans, was discovered among a group of horses at the King Ranch in Texas. WSU/USDA scientist Don Knowles developed a reliable diagnostic test and treatment to kill the parasites, containing the outbreak and identifying a new tick species responsible for its spread.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateAug 29, 2012

Aspirin may help men with prostate cancer live longer, study suggests

A multicenter study found that taking aspirin is associated with a lower risk of death from prostate cancer, especially in high-risk disease. The study analyzed data from almost 6,000 men with prostate cancer treated with surgery or radiotherapy, and the results showed a significant reduction in mortality rates and cancer recurrence.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 29, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Twitter data crunching: The new crystal ball

Researchers from Northeastern University used Twitter data to analyze voting patterns in American Idol, predicting the outcome of votes with high accuracy. The study also identified geographical influences on voting patterns, suggesting that a different outcome might have occurred if voting had been open to international fans.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateAug 29, 2012

Bacterial cause found for skin condition rosacea

Researchers have identified Demodex mites as the primary carriers of bacteria that trigger rosacea. The bacteria produce molecules provoking an immune reaction in patients, leading to tissue degradation and inflammation.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateAug 29, 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.

NIH media availability: Protein linked to increased risk of heart failure and death in older adults

Galectin-3 protein has been linked to an increased risk of heart failure and death in older adults, according to a new study. The study found that individuals with high levels of galectin-3 were more likely to experience heart failure, highlighting the potential for measuring blood levels as an early warning sign.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2012

Adelaide joins with Italy to develop 'super spaghetti'

Researchers in Adelaide and Italy are working on projects to improve the quality of pasta by increasing dietary fiber and starch levels. The goal is to create 'super spaghetti' that offers potential health benefits, such as reducing heart disease risk or colorectal cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateAug 29, 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.

Breakthrough in nanotechnology

UCF researchers have made a breakthrough in nanotechnology by developing nanoclusters that can diffuse high-energy laser beams. These tiny clusters of gold particles have the potential to protect pilots and sensitive equipment from destructive lasers, providing a new level of safety for these applications.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 29, 2012

Internet addiction -- Causes at the molecular level

A study by the University of Bonn found that a genetic variation on the CHRNA4 gene is associated with internet addiction. This variation occurs more frequently in women and may be related to social media use. The researchers hope their findings will lead to better therapies for online addiction.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateAug 29, 2012

Soil Science Society of America announces 2012 award recipients

The Soil Science Society of America announced its 2012 award recipients, honoring their research and service in the field. The awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to soil science, including Susan Brantley, Daniel Hillel, Pedro Sanchez, and Johannes Lehmann.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateAug 29, 2012

Math ability requires crosstalk in the brain

A new study reveals that strong communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain predicts math performance. The research suggests a possible route to aiding individuals with dyscalculia by enhancing parietal connectivity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateAug 29, 2012
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.

Don't cut lifesaving ICDs during financial crisis, ESC warns

The European Society of Cardiology is tackling the issue of underused implantable cardiac devices, particularly ICDs, due to financial constraints. The initiative aims to raise awareness about their importance and reduce sudden cardiac death rates in countries like Ukraine and Germany.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2012

When to worry about kids' temper tantrums

Researchers developed a new questionnaire to assess preschoolers' behavior, enabling early identification and treatment of emerging mental health problems. The study found that temper tantrums are not frequent among young children, occurring less than 10% of the time.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 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.

Oversized fat droplets: Too much of a good thing

A genetic screen of roundworms identified two proteins required for the expansion of lipid droplets, which are associated with obesity and health hazards. The study reveals an anatomical link between these proteins and suggests that they act synergistically to allow cells to store more fat and expand lipid droplet size.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateAug 29, 2012

Scripps researchers pinpoint hot spots as earthquake trigger points

Scientists at Scripps Institution of Oceanography discovered how fault zones weaken in select locations after an earthquake tipping point, creating 'melt welts'. These regions can lead to runaway slip and massive earthquakes. The study addresses the 'low heat flow paradox' and may improve earthquake prediction models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2012

Potential methane reservoirs beneath Antarctica

A new study suggests that beneath Antarctica's ice sheet lies a massive potential methane reservoir, with estimates suggesting up to 400 billion tonnes of carbon. Microorganisms in sub-ice environments have been found to metabolize organic carbon into methane gas, which could be released during future ice-sheet collapse.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2012

Penn State ARL to lead defense manufacturing research project

The iFAB Foundry aims to revolutionize the design and building process for complex defense systems by shortening development time by a factor of five. The project will provide near-instantaneous manufacturability feedback to designers, enabling flexible and programmable distributed production.

SourcePenn State·DateAug 29, 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.

Young children share rewards based on merit

Research published in PLOS ONE found that young children consider merit when sharing resources, taking into account the amount of work they contribute and their partner's contribution level. However, a self-serving bias was also observed, with few children giving away more than half of the reward even when their partner had worked more.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 29, 2012

Synchronized lasers measure how light changes matter

Researchers successfully probed the effects of light on matter at the atomic scale by mixing x-ray and optical light waves. This technique allows them to directly measure how light manipulates chemical bonds in materials, enabling new insights into light-matter interactions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2012

Southern elephant seals likely detect prey bioluminescence for foraging

Research in southern Indian Ocean found increased bioluminescence correlates with higher foraging intensity in deep-sea predators, indicating that bioluminescence likely provides seals with valuable indications of prey occurrence. The study monitored diving behavior and light detector data from four female southern elephant seals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 29, 2012

Dinosaur abdominal contents reveal hunting prowess

The analysis of Sinocalliopteryx gigas' abdominal contents suggests that these dinosaurs were adept stealth hunters capable of tackling prey over a third their size. The study also found evidence of eating bird-like dinosaurs and primitive birds, providing new insights into their hunting behavior.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 29, 2012