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Science News Archive December 2012 - Page 13


Page 13 of 24
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.

Automated design for drug discovery

A team of researchers at the University of Dundee has developed an automated design system for new drugs, using advanced statistical analysis to mimic human chemists' creative process. The system successfully predicted profiles across a range of drug targets, with 75% confirmed correct in experimental testing.

SourceUniversity of Dundee·JournalNature·DateDec 12, 2012

Study details brain damage triggered by mini-strokes

A new study reveals that mini-strokes result in prolonged periods of brain damage and cognitive impairment, with neurons being lost due to delayed processes. The research suggests a longer therapeutic window to protect cells after these tiny strokes, potentially extending to days and weeks after the initial injury.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateDec 12, 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.

UCLA scientists find drug that may help fight Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers at UCLA have found a powerful boost to therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy by combining a proven FDA-approved medication, dantrolene, with existing treatments. This combination aims to restore normal muscle function and improve the lives of those affected by the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 12, 2012

More ice loss through snowfall on Antarctica

A new study published in Nature shows that increased snowfall in Antarctica leads to more rapid ice flow and greater ice loss, contributing to higher sea levels. The research suggests that global warming may accelerate ice discharge from the continent, potentially offsetting any ice gain due to increased snowfall.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature·DateDec 12, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Workplace bullying ups risk of prescriptions for anxiety/depression/insomnia

Research finds that witnessing or experiencing workplace bullying increases the risk of being prescribed antidepressants, sedatives, and sleeping pills. The study, which tracked 6,606 public service employees in Finland, reveals a significant association between bullying and subsequent prescriptions for psychoactive drugs.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateDec 12, 2012

Patients with family history of colorectal cancer may be at risk for aggressive form of the disease

Researchers found that patients with a family history of colorectal cancer are more likely to develop tumors with low-level methylation of LINE-1, a molecular sign associated with an aggressive form of the disease. Testing for this sign may help identify patients in need of aggressive treatment and inform familial cancer-risk assessments.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 12, 2012

Astronomers discover 'missing link' of black holes

Researchers used Earth-orbiting X-ray telescopes to observe a bingeing black hole that expels powerful beams of material, solving the debate over whether ULXs are black holes gorging themselves or more massive ones eating sedately. The discovery provides key insights into how jets are produced by a binging black hole.

SourceDurham University·JournalNature·DateDec 12, 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.

Researchers shed light on the workings of the body's immune response

A recent study from Queen Mary University of London has identified two proteins, Egr2 and Egr3, as crucial regulators of the immune response. In patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), T lymphocytes show defective production of these proteins, leading to increased inflammation.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 12, 2012

Targeted micro-bubbles detect artery inflammation, MU study finds

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method to detect artery inflammation in pigs using targeted micro-bubbles. The technique, which has shown promising results, may help identify patients at risk for strokes and monitor the effectiveness of treatments.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateDec 12, 2012

Lake Erie wind farm proposal wins $4 million in federal funding

A regional team led by Case Western Reserve University has won $4 million to design a 9-turbine Lake Erie wind farm, with the potential for an additional $46 million in funding. The goal is to demonstrate cost-competitive power production and explore materials and designs to reduce costs.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateDec 12, 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.

Vegetable compound could become ingredient to treating leukemia

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered a vegetable compound that can reduce the number of acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Sulforaphane, found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, was shown to kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected in lab tests.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 2012

Cane toads can be stopped

A study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology found that removing around 100 artificial waterbodies can prevent toads from occupying 268,000 square kilometres of land. This could protect numerous species, including northern Quolls and goannas and snakes, badly affected by toad invasions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateDec 12, 2012
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.

Hubble census finds galaxies at redshifts 9 to 12

Astronomers have discovered seven primitive galaxies from a distant population formed over 13 billion years ago. The observations reveal the earliest years of cosmic history and provide new insights into galaxy formation.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 12, 2012

Lethal stings from the Australian box jellyfish could be treated with zinc

Researchers found that administering zinc to human blood and mice treated with the venom's compound could slow down pore-forming process in cells. Zinc gluconate treatment increased survival times in mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic option. The study proposes zinc as a life-saver for victims of Australian box jellyfish stings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 2012

Study paves way to design drugs aimed at multiple protein targets at once

Scientists have developed a way to create designer drugs that target multiple proteins simultaneously, potentially treating complex diseases like diabetes and schizophrenia. The new approach uses computational chemistry and experimental testing to validate drug compounds, showing promise for developing effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature·DateDec 12, 2012

Physics on a plane: Crystals grown under 0 gravity

Researchers successfully grew helium crystals under zero gravity, overcoming laboratory limitations to examine the dynamics of these peculiar materials. The crystals formed rapidly, exhibiting an unprecedented Ostwald ripening process that can help reveal the underlying physics of crystal development.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateDec 12, 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.

Microquasar found in neighbor galaxy, tantalizing scientists

Astronomers have discovered a microquasar in the Andromeda Galaxy, a black hole devouring material from a companion star. The discovery provides opportunities for detailed studies to unravel the mystery of microquasars and their physics.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateDec 12, 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.

Building better barley

Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed tools to help barley crops use less water while maintaining productivity. The study, published in Theoretical and Applied Genetics, utilizes carbon isotope compositions to improve selection efficiency for water-efficient varieties.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalTheoretical and Applied Genetics·DateDec 12, 2012

Ultra-short laser pulses control chemical processes

Researchers at TU Vienna have successfully controlled the splitting of large molecules with up to ten atoms using ultra-short laser pulses. The technique involves influencing the movement of electrons, which in turn affects the atomic nuclei, allowing for targeted control over specific elemental chemical reactions.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 12, 2012

Can algae-derived oils support large-scale, low-cost biofuels production?

A review article examines the feasibility of algae-derived oils for large-scale biofuels production, with projected economic benefits. Microalgae have high yield potential, but require long-term commitment to achieve commercial scale, according to experts.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDisruptive Science and Technology·DateDec 12, 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.

Research team recognizes predator-producing bacteria

Scientists have identified a unique phage that acts as a predator, infecting and harming competing bacterial strains in the human intestine. The discovery could lead to new techniques for controlling bacteria in a natural way, opening up questions about the role of phages in shaping gut communities.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2012

Taxes on sugary drinks and high fat foods could improve health

A recent study suggests that taxes on soft drinks and high-fat foods could lead to significant reductions in energy intake from saturated fats and consumption of these products. In contrast, subsidies for fruits and vegetables may increase consumption, but with potential compensatory purchasing effects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 11, 2012

NASA's EUNIS mission: 6 minutes in the life of the sun

The EUNIS mission will gather data on the sun's corona by observing extreme ultraviolet light over a six-minute flight, providing insights into temperature ranges of solar plasma. The instrument will observe wavelengths from 525 to 630 Angstroms, covering temperatures from near the surface to millions of degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 11, 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.

Words have feelings

A study published in Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience found that emotion in voices enhances initial word recognition, but does not improve long-term memory. The researchers discovered that emotionally intoned speech can lead to the acquisition of emotional value, making words more negatively charged in the mind.

SourceSpringer·DateDec 11, 2012

Dead or alive? A new test to determine viability of soybean rust spores

Researchers have developed a method to determine the viability of Asian soybean rust spores using two staining techniques. The new test allows for early detection of viable spores, enabling farmers to apply fungicides at the right time and minimizing yield losses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPhytopathology·DateDec 11, 2012

New anticoagulant discovered based on the same used by malaria vectors to feed on

Researchers have deciphered the mechanism of anophelin's interaction with thrombin, a key enzyme in blood coagulation. This discovery opens the door to designing new anticoagulant drugs with improved efficacy and reduced side effects, as well as fighting against malaria by developing inhibitors for this substance.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 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.

Could ending your fatty food habit cause withdrawal symptoms and depression?

A new study by the University of Montreal found that ending a high-fat diet can cause withdrawal-like symptoms and increased sensitivity to stress in mice. The research suggests that brain chemicals associated with depression are altered by diet, leading to a vicious cycle of poor eating.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateDec 11, 2012

Battling brittle bones... with broccoli and spinach?

A new study reveals how tiny holes in bones can weaken them, but also shows that strengthening osteocalcin could lead to stronger bones. Researchers suggest that increasing vitamin K intake through foods like spinach and broccoli may help prevent bone fractures.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2012

Just a spoonful: Sweet taste comforts babies during injections

A Cochrane systematic review found that giving babies a few drops of sugary solution before injections can reduce crying time. Researchers reviewed data from 14 studies involving over 1,500 infants, with results showing a shorter crying time for those given the sugar solution.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateDec 11, 2012

An older Vega: New insights about the star all others are measured by

Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that Vega, a star used as a reference point for measuring other stars' brightness, is approximately 200 million years older than previously estimated. The star's rotation rate and mass were also precisely measured using the Michigan Infrared Combiner tool.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 11, 2012

Brain angioplasty and stents found safe and effective for stroke patients

A new study published in Radiology found that cerebral angioplasty and stent placement can be an effective treatment for stroke patients, with a significant improvement in outcomes compared to no additional therapy. The procedure was shown to improve symptoms and quality of life for approximately 43.5% of patients.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateDec 11, 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.

Anti-aging gene identified as tumor suppressor in mice, research finds

A new study reveals that the SIRT6 gene plays a critical role in suppressing cancer growth by repressing aerobic glycolysis and inhibiting Myc activity. The loss of SIRT6 protein in mice increases tumor size and aggressiveness, highlighting its potential as a tumor suppressor.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell·DateDec 11, 2012

Industry sponsorship leads to bias in reported findings of clinical trials

Studies funded by industry report more favorable results and outcomes compared to non-industry sponsored trials. The systematic review found that papers describing industry-sponsored studies presented more favorable overall conclusions, with increased benefits and fewer harmful side effects.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateDec 11, 2012

2 UT Southwestern scientists honored as rising stars in Texas research

Two UT Southwestern researchers, Dr. Lora Hooper and Dr. Youxing Jiang, are recognized for their innovative work on immune mechanisms and ion channels. Their discoveries have significant implications for understanding and treating conditions like inflammatory bowel disorders and channelopathies.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateDec 11, 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.

Contact precautions shown to modify healthcare workers care delivery

A study found that contact precautions for patients with drug-resistant infections reduced visits by healthcare workers, but increased hand hygiene compliance upon exiting patients' rooms. However, this intervention had negative effects on patient care and mental wellbeing.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateDec 11, 2012

NIH scientists reflect on gains in emerging infectious disease awareness, research and response

Over the past two decades, heightened awareness of emerging infectious diseases has improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention through advances such as rapid genome sequencing. The complex interactions between microbes and human hosts are being better understood, leading to new insights into disease development and countermeasures.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalmBio·DateDec 11, 2012

Foreign multidrug resistant bacteria contained in Toronto hospital

A Canadian hospital detected New Delhi Metallo-ß-lactamase-1-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (NDM1-Kp), a multidrug-resistant bacteria. The bacteria was found in seven patients, acquired through direct contact with an index patient.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateDec 11, 2012