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Science News Archive December 2012


Page 7 of 24

Spread of cancer cells may be slowed by targeting of protein

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that targeting km23-1, a motor protein involved in cell migration, can slow the spread of cancer cells. By inhibiting km23-1, cancer therapies may be developed to prevent tumor cells from migrating to other parts of the body.

Women earn more if they work in different occupations than men

A study of 20 industrialized countries found that women tend to earn less when sharing the same occupation as men. However, the researchers discovered that when women work in different trades and professions, they receive higher pay on average. Countries with more women in diverse occupations showed a significant reduction in pay gap.

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.

UC Riverside turfgrass specialist receives high honor

Victor Gibeault, a cooperative extension specialist at UC Riverside, has received the 2013 USGA Green Section Award for his dedicated work on turfgrass research and education. He holds U.S. patents for zoysiagrass and buffalograss cultivars.

Prehistoric ghosts revealing new details

Researchers have identified previously unseen anatomy preserved in fossils using synchrotron-based imaging techniques. The study reveals that a 50 million-year-old lizard skin contains teeth, changing the understanding of this fossil animal.

Reappraisal defuses strong emotional responses to Israel-Palestine conflict

A new study found that cognitive reappraisal can decrease negative intergroup emotions and increase support for conciliatory policies in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Reappraisal training reduced anger towards Palestinians, increased support for peaceful solutions, and decreased support for aggressive policies.

Research finds crisis in Syria has Mesopotamian precedent

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have found intriguing parallels between modern-day Syria and Bronze-Age Syria, where urban decline, government collapse, and drought led to a regional government's downfall. The study, which used obsidian tools from the ancient city of Urkesh, suggests that climate change, militarism, and unsu...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A new breed of stable anti-aromatic compound

Researchers at University of Texas at Austin synthesize stable anti-aromatic compound and intermediate state, enabling comparison between aromatic and anti-aromatic properties. The discovery has potential implications for industry, medicine, and information storage.

Host cholesterol secretion likely to influence gut microbiota

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that changes in dietary cholesterol can alter the gut flora, leading to a shift in bacterial populations. The researchers discovered that this change triggered an increase in cholesterol excretion into the gut, which in turn affected the abundance of certain bacterial taxa.

Analysis of Marcellus flowback finds high levels of ancient brines

A study by Penn State researchers has found high levels of ancient brines in Marcellus flowback water, which are consistent with brines formed during the Paleozoic era. The study highlights the importance of proper disposal and re-use of fracking fluids to prevent environmental contamination.

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.

Antibiotics based on a new principle may defeat MRSA

Scientists have discovered a new antibiotic principle that selectively blocks the thioredoxin system in bacterial cells, making certain bacteria vulnerable to inhibition. This mechanism could potentially treat conditions like stomach ulcers, TB, and MRSA, providing a new solution for combating antibiotic-resistant infections.

The Green Revolution is wilting

A study published in Nature Communications found that 24-39% of harvested areas experienced stagnation or decline in maize, rice, wheat, and soybean yields between 1961 and 2008. The findings highlight the need to shift focus from meat and biofuel production to food security, particularly for staple crops like wheat and rice.

Study of pipestone artifacts overturns a century-old assumption

A new study finds that most of the pipestone used to create ancient artifacts in Ohio came from quarries in Illinois, contradicting a long-held assumption. Researchers analyzed mineralogical signatures and found that over 65% of the pipes were carved from flint clay in northern Illinois.

Humanitarian organizations must do more for older people in emergencies

A lack of consideration for older people's needs in emergency situations is hindering their response, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors without Borders) and HelpAge International. This group faces unique challenges such as difficulty traveling and accessing relief supplies, leading to increased mortality and morbidity rates.

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.

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.

Survival of the females

A study by Jana Beckelmann found that female horse embryos produce more insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1) than male embryos, which may help explain the uneven sex ratio of equine births. This discovery sheds light on a previously unknown mechanism driving sexual dimorphism in horses.

Mayo Clinic researchers identify enzyme linked to prostate cancer

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified an enzyme specifically linked to aggressive prostate cancer, which promotes the metastatic spread of the disease. A compound that inhibits this enzyme's ability has been developed and shows promise for future clinical applications.

Mistaking OCD for ADHD has serious consequences

Researchers found that people with ADHD are impulsive risk-takers, while those with OCD are anxious about consequences, causing hesitancy in decision-making. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and well-being, as mistaking the two disorders can lead to wrong medication prescriptions.

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.

Cancer cells co-opt immune response to escape destruction

Researchers found that cancer cells use unfolded protein response (UPR) to manipulate immune cells, making them ineffective against tumors. Tumor cells exploit UPR to promote their survival and growth, and this mechanism is being targeted for potential therapy and improved cancer vaccines.

Southampton researchers find a glitch' in pulsar 'glitch' theory

Pulsars suddenly increase speed in brief events called 'glitches,' but researchers question this phenomenon's explanation. A mathematical model shows that the available superfluid in a pulsar's crust is too small to cause such friction, contradicting current thinking.

Reproductive Health Matters announces publication of its themed issue

The latest issue of Reproductive Health Matters exposes the significant impact of neglected sexual and reproductive morbidities on women, men, and families globally. It addresses various health issues, including fistula complications, maternal health, and cervical cancer, while also highlighting prevailing myths and misconceptions.

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.

Award-winning A/C uses old idea, new materials

Researchers developed a DESICCANT-ENHANCED EVAPORATIVE (DEVAP) system that works in any climate and achieves comfortable cooling while saving 40% to 80% of the energy use of conventional air conditioning systems. The system uses micro-porous membranes to separate desiccant from air, enabling efficient dehydration and cooling.

Complexities of human disease targeted with $16 million in funding

Scientists at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute receive $16 million in funding to develop new methods for analyzing complex data sets and understand the adaptive immune response. The funding will support researchers in developing treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, malaria, and cancer.

Combo-snacks of cheese and vegetables cut kids calories

A new study from Cornell University found that serving kids combined snacks of cheese and vegetables led to a 72% reduction in calories consumed. The results showed that children eating these snack combos were just as satisfied as those who ate only potato chips, making it an effective tool for reducing childhood obesity.

RIT scientists decode 3 bacterial strains common to grapevines and sugarcane

Scientists at Rochester Institute of Technology have published the whole genome sequence of three bacteria associated with Jamaican sugarcane and Riesling grapevines. The genomes reveal genetic instructions that make up individual organisms, providing data for the prevention or management of diseases afflicting crops.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Adhesion disturbed by noise

Researchers found that adding noise to a micro-textured surface can lower the energy barrier for an object to roll, mimicking gecko feet's adhesive properties. This study could lead to applications in gecko-inspired adhesives, tire adhesion, and digital operations.

Total donates high-speed computer cluster to UH

The University of Houston has received a high-speed computer cluster donation from Total, expanding its computing capabilities for research and education. The cluster will be used for large-scale simulations, data analysis, and teaching students about systems administration.

Mental health lags behind global health and lifespan improvements

A leading researcher's findings reveal that mental health is not improving at the same rate as global health and lifespan, with autism prevalence found in males, those without higher education, and social housing residents. Training Health Visitors to assess and support mothers after childbirth can prevent depression in adults.

Duke Medicine News new immune therapy successfully treats brain tumors in mice

Researchers at Duke Medicine have developed an artificial protein that stimulates the body's natural immune system to fight cancer. In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the therapy was shown to cure brain tumors in six out of eight mice, with no harm to surrounding normal tissue.

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.

Mapping effort charts restoration tack for Great Lakes

A new study maps environmental stresses and ecological services in the Great Lakes, highlighting areas of high cumulative stress and potential for protection. The analysis provides a comprehensive perspective on restoration, identifying locations where multiple problems intersect and opportunities for targeted remediation.

How to get fossil fuels from ice cream and soap

Scientists have created a way to convert naturally occurring fatty acids found in soap and ice cream into ready-to-use fuel and household chemicals. This breakthrough in synthetic biology has the potential to create renewable energy from sustainable sources.

Univ. of MD School of Medicine to study drug-resistant malaria in Myanmar

The University of Maryland School of Medicine is launching a study on drug-resistant malaria in Myanmar, using new genetic markers to track the spread of artemisinin-resistant malaria. The researchers aim to develop tests to identify and monitor the disease, which has caused significant treatment failures in Southeast Asia.

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.

Who likes bling? The answer relates to social status

Researchers found that feeling inferior in social status leads people of all races to crave expensive products. Whites who imagined themselves in low-status positions rated high-status goods more positively than those in higher positions.

Autoimmune disease – retraining white blood cells

Researchers develop method to reprogram T-cells involved in autoimmune diseases by attaching pancreatic protein to red blood cells, eliminating symptoms of type I diabetes in mice. The approach aims to minimize risks and side effects while targeting specific immune cells involved in the disease.

New type of cell division discovered

Researchers have discovered a new type of cell division called klerokinesis, which appears to be an evolutionary failsafe mechanism that could rescue cell functions during embryonic development. By analyzing human retinal pigment epithelial cells, the team found that klerokinesis can help maintain genomic integrity and potentially prev...

Study offers insights into role of muscle weakness in Down syndrome

A new study investigated muscle weakness in a mouse model of Down syndrome and found that factors in the nervous system may play a more dominant role in explaining muscle weakness. The research team discovered altered pathways in DS muscle, including breakdown of proteins and neuromuscular transmission.

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.

Brain imaging identifies bipolar disorder risk in adolescents

Researchers used brain imaging technology to identify young people at risk of bipolar disorder, showing clear differences in brain activity when compared to controls. Young people with a genetic risk of bipolar displayed reduced brain responses to emotive faces, particularly fearful faces.

Surviving sepsis with LECT2

A recent study published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine found that patients with sepsis had abnormally low levels of the inflammatory protein LECT2. Injecting LECT2 into septic mice promoted bacterial clearance by immune cells and increased their production of survival-promoting factors.

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.

Boreal bird species of conservation concern affected by climate change

A study found that climate change is affecting boreal bird species populations, with some groups increasing in density while others are declining. The research suggests that habitat-specific responses to climate change may be driving these trends, with open mires and mountain heaths being more rapidly affected.

Study uncovers mechanism used by BRCA1 to suppress tumors

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center discovered that BRCA1 targets cyclin B and Cdc25c proteins, regulating the G2/M checkpoint and halting cell division to allow DNA repair. This novel function explains BRCA1's role in maintaining genomic integrity and suppressing tumor growth.

Can instilling racial pride in black teens lead to better educational outcomes?

A University of Pittsburgh study published in Child Development found that African American adolescents with a sense of racial pride tend to have more success in school and are less vulnerable to the effects of racial discrimination. The study suggests that racially conscious parenting strategies can be a key factor in student success.

Hair care issues contribute to exercise barriers for African-American women

A study by Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center reveals that hair care complications are a primary factor deterring African-American women from exercising. The research found that over 40% of respondents reported avoiding exercise due to hair-related issues, with many using heat straighteners or chemical products to style their hair.

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.

Farm soil determines environmental fate of phosphorous

A new study by Brown University finds that farm soils mediate the environmental consequences of modern farming, particularly with phosphorus, a key agricultural nutrient. The research compares soybean production in US, Brazil, and Argentina, revealing how soil type and management impact phosphorus usage and environmental pollution.

NASA sees dangerous category 4 Cyclone Evan lashing Fiji

Cyclone Evan is one of the strongest to affect Fiji in almost two decades, causing widespread damage and flooding. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center uses NASA satellite data to forecast its path, which may be the strongest storm to hit Fiji since 1993.

Following Phragmites home

Researchers mapped large stands of invasive Phragmites along the US Great Lakes coastline using satellite technologies. The resulting dataset provides a highly accurate picture of the extent of Phragmites invasion, allowing for targeted control efforts and future range extension modeling.