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Science News Archive December 2012 - Page 2


Page 2 of 24

People with mental disorders more likely to have experienced domestic violence

Research from King's College London reveals that individuals with mental health disorders are at a higher risk of experiencing domestic violence. Women with depressive disorders were 2.5 times more likely and those with PTSD were 7 times more likely to have been victims compared to women without mental health problems.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 26, 2012

Kindness key to happiness and acceptance for children

Research from the University of British Columbia found that performing acts of kindness increases peer acceptance and reduces bullying. Students aged 9-11 who participated in kindness activities were happier and selected more classmates to work with.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 26, 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.

Development of new corneal cell line provides powerful tool

Scientists have developed two novel model systems for human corneal endothelium, enabling reliable study of HCEnC cells in health and disease. The new model systems, HCENC-21 and HCEnC-21T, mimic the critical characteristics and functionalities of the tissue in the eye.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 26, 2012

Ability to metabolize tamoxifen affects breast cancer outcomes, Mayo Clinic-led study confirms

A new study by researchers from the Mayo Clinic and Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group found that genetic differences in liver enzyme CYP2D6 play a key role in tamoxifen's effectiveness. Women with altered CYP2D6 enzyme activity had higher rates of breast cancer recurrence and death, while those with normal enzyme activi...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateDec 26, 2012

New MRI method may help diagnose dementia

Researchers developed a new MRI method to predict the ratio of tau and beta-amyloid proteins in cerebrospinal fluid, achieving 75% accuracy in identifying correct diagnoses. The method could be used as a screening tool and help monitor biomarkers over time in clinical trials.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 26, 2012

Benefits of higher oxygen, breathing device persist after infancy

A follow-up study by the National Institutes of Health found that very preterm infants who received higher oxygen levels continued to show cognitive and motor development benefits as toddlers. Continuous positive airway pressure therapy was also found to be an effective alternative to traditional respiratory therapy, without difference...

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 26, 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.

New funding to research 'super material' graphene

The UK government has allocated £21.5 million of public funding to commercialize graphene, a 'super material' with exceptional properties. Researchers at Imperial College London will explore ways to apply graphene in aerospace design, medical technologies, and other high-tech industries.

SourceImperial College London·DateDec 26, 2012

Evidence contradicts idea that starvation caused saber-tooth cat extinction

A recent study using dental microwear texture analysis found no evidence of increased starvation in saber-tooth cats before their extinction. Instead, the research suggests that these great cats and American lions were well-fed and actively hunted prey, challenging popular theories on megafaunal extinction.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 26, 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.

Doctors call for evidence-based appropriateness criteria for elective procedures

Experts recommend developing and implementing evidence-based appropriateness criteria to prioritize patients most in need of elective procedures, such as joint replacement surgery. This could help combat increasing healthcare costs while enhancing access and quality, according to Weill Cornell researchers.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 26, 2012

Immune system changes may drive aggressiveness of recurrent tumors

Researchers found that enhanced aggressiveness of recurrent tumors is due to changes in immune response, specifically an increase in regulatory T cells and macrophages protecting tumor cells. Blocking these cells with new drugs could be a promising strategy for patients with recurrent disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 26, 2012

Drug shortage linked to greater risk of relapse in young Hodgkin lymphoma patients

A national study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that a drug shortage led to a significant increase in cancer relapse rates among pediatric patients with Hodgkin lymphoma. The study revealed an estimated two-year cancer-free survival rate of 88% for patients treated with mechlorethamine, compared to 75% for those treated...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 26, 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.

Big transfusions add risk for heart attack patients with anemia

A new meta-analysis of 10 studies involving over 203,000 patients with anemia and heart attacks found that liberal blood transfusions increased the risk of death by 12% and had twice the odds of another heart attack. The study calls for rigorous randomized trials to determine when transfusions are appropriate.

SourceBrown University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 24, 2012

Why some grasses evolved a more efficient photosynthesis and others didn't

A study by Brown University biologists found that the PACMAD clade of grasses developed an anatomical predisposition to C4 photosynthesis due to evolutionary pressures. The clade's bundle sheath cells became larger, facilitating more efficient CO2 transfer when temperatures rise or plants become stressed.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 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.

Ultrasound diagnoses appendicitis without X-rays

A new study by Washington University School of Medicine found that children suspected of having appendicitis are more likely to receive ultrasound scans instead of CT scans at St. Louis Children's Hospital, reducing radiation exposure. Researchers aim to find ways to reduce CT imaging use without compromising patient care.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 24, 2012

Amazon deforestation brings loss of microbial communities

A recent study found that Amazon deforestation results in a significant loss of microbial diversity, leading to reduced ecosystem resilience. The research team discovered that the conversion of rainforest to agricultural pastures causes a homogenization of bacterial communities, resulting in a net loss of diversity.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 2012

Deforestation in the Amazon equals net losses of diversity for microbial communities

A recent study found that deforestation in the Amazon rainforest leads to a net loss of diversity among microbial organisms, which are crucial for ecosystem function. The research revealed biotic homogenization and reduced genetic variation in bacteria across converted forests, compromising ecosystem resilience.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 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.

Fluctuating environment may have driven human evolution

Researchers found that the environment transitioned rapidly between a closed woodland and an open grassland, triggering evolutionary changes. The team used lake sediments and biomarkers to reconstruct the types of vegetation present, revealing a correlation between environmental changes and planetary movement.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 2012

NYU biologists identify proteins vital to chromosome segregation

Researchers have identified key proteins involved in loading a vital protein into the centromere, a critical region for cell division. Disruption of this process can lead to abnormal numbers of chromosomes, common in 90% of cancer cases.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 2012

Enzyme accelerates malignant stem cell cloning in chronic myeloid leukemia

A study published in PNAS reveals that inflammation enhances the activity of enzyme ADAR1, leading to increased self-renewal and therapeutic resistance in cancer stem cells. Targeting this pathway with a small molecule inhibitor may help prevent relapse and progression of chronic myeloid leukemia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study examines overuse of ambulatory health care services in United States

An analysis of nationally representative survey data found significant improvement in the delivery of underused care, including better use of antithrombotic therapy and aspirin for atrial fibrillation. However, the study also found limited changes in reducing inappropriate care, such as overuse of antibiotics for asthma exacerbations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 24, 2012

Bumblebees do best where there is less pavement and more floral diversity

Research suggests that reducing pavement and increasing natural habitat can improve nesting opportunities for wild bees. Bees will also forage further away from their home nest if the surrounding landscape is less heterogeneous, seeking out species-rich patches.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 2012

Gout study offers genetic insight into 'disease of kings'

A study of over 140,000 people has uncovered 18 genetic variants that increase uric acid levels, leading to improved treatment and prevention options for gout. The research also highlights the growing prevalence of gout worldwide, attributed to increasing obesity and aging populations.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 23, 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.

Smaller Colorado River projected for coming decades, study says

A new study projects a 10 percent decline in the Colorado River's flow by 2040, posing significant challenges for water management in the US Southwest. Climate modelers predict increased evaporation and drying conditions across three key regions, including California, Nevada, and Texas.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 23, 2012

Study turns parasite invasion theory on its head

Researchers at Wellcome Trust Centre for Molecular Parasitology developed a new technique to knock out genes in the parasite's genome. The study found that removing specific genes did not prevent the parasite from invading host cells, suggesting alternative invasion strategies.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 23, 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.

New data challenge old views about evolution of early life

A UC Riverside-led research team tested the hypothesis that low zinc levels delayed eukaryote diversification, finding instead high seawater zinc availability throughout Earth's history. The study suggests that ferruginous deep oceans and volcanic activity maintained stable zinc levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 23, 2012

3 new genetic links to colorectal cancer

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified three new genetic variants linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The study, published in Nature Genetics, provides new insight into the biology of the disease and could lead to new therapeutic targets.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 23, 2012

Decision to give a group effort in the brain

In a study published in Nature Neuroscience, researchers discovered that three distinct brain areas work together to weigh the benefits of giving to oneself versus another monkey. The team found that neurons in the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACCg) encode both giving and receiving rewards in a remarkably similar way.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 23, 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.

Study shows rapid warming on the West Antarctic Ice Sheet

A new study reveals nearly twice as much warming in West Antarctica than previously thought, with average annual temperature rising by 4.3 degrees Fahrenheit since 1958. This warming trend could upset the surface mass balance of the ice sheet, contributing to sea level rise.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 23, 2012

New findings in the search for genetic clues to insulin production

Researchers identified three genetic variants associated with abnormal insulin production, increasing the risk of developing diabetes. The study's exome array genotyping analysis revealed the involvement of genes TBC1D30, KANK1, and PAM in insulin processing and secretion.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 23, 2012

Understanding cell organization to tackle cancer

Scientists have discovered a vital interplay between transport machinery and integrin receptors that ensures proteins are transported to the correct area of the cell. This understanding could lead to better diagnosis for cancer patients as it reveals how cells become disorganized in early stages of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateDec 23, 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.

'Molecular levers' may make materials better

Scientists have discovered a new type of molecular lever that can accelerate chemical reactions 1000 times faster than other molecules. This breakthrough has the potential to engineer more efficient materials with improved mechanical and thermal properties.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 23, 2012

Physicists take photonic topological insulators to the next level

Physicists at the University of Texas at Austin have designed a simulation that emulates key properties of electronic topological insulators. The simulation, called SPINDOMs, allows researchers to control the spin of photons in a way that emulates what can be done with electrons.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 21, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

The X factor in liver metabolism

Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center found that activating the unfolded protein response (UPR) triggers the expression of Xbp1s, a protein regulating genes needed for metabolic switch. This suggests Xbp1s could play a role in metabolic disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 21, 2012

Hawaiian Islands are dissolving, study says

Research by Brigham Young University geologists reveals Hawaiian Islands are dissolving from within, with groundwater removing more mineral material than stream water. The study predicts Oahu will continue to grow for up to 1.5 million years before eventually declining in elevation.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateDec 21, 2012

Fighting sleeping sickness with X-ray lasers

Researchers used an X-ray free-electron laser to determine the structure of trypanosomal Cathepsin B, a promising target for treating sleeping sickness. The study provides detailed insight into how the naturally occurring native inhibitor binds, offering new ideas for designing targeted treatments.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2012

New calculations solve an old problem with DNA

Scientists at the University of Luxembourg have developed a new calculation technique that accurately predicts the B-Z transition in DNA, which can lead to cancer. The breakthrough enables the prediction of material properties such as melting temperatures and elasticity with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·DateDec 21, 2012

New insights into how immune system fights atherosclerosis

A study led by Columbia University Medical Center researchers found that an important branch of the immune system mounts a surprisingly robust anti-inflammatory T cell response to prevent atherosclerosis progression. Regulatory T cells suppress pro-inflammatory effector T cells and macrophages, reducing disease severity.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 21, 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.

How excess holiday eating disturbs your 'food clock'

A new UCSF study examines the role of key molecule PKCγ in regulating the food clock, which is disrupted by irregular eating patterns. The findings have implications for understanding diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic syndromes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2012

Targeting taste receptors in the gut may help fight obesity

Researchers say targeting extraoral taste receptors in the gut could release hormones that signal fullness, mimicking meal effects and aiding weight loss. Additional studies are needed to identify effective drug targets for obesity treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateDec 21, 2012