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Science News Archive February 2012


Page 14 of 30

$10.5 million grant will expand vast online hub for educators, by educators

A $10.5 million grant will enhance the CPALMS system, a free online platform that guides teachers to teaching tools and resources, with new features including learning progression maps and messaging tools. The improved system will better support standards-driven instruction in mathematics, science, and reading/language arts.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

North Carolina-based genetic resources fuel big scientific progress

The Collaborative Cross project in North Carolina has created a vast library of genetic material, mirroring human diversity in mice. This enables faster and more accurate understanding of genetic variation's impact on living systems, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treatment and prevention for human diseases.

High doses of 'load' slows loss of bone in spinal cord injury

A new clinical trial shows that high doses of 'load' through programmed electrical stimulation of the muscle significantly slows bone density loss in patients with spinal cord injury. Average bone density in the femur was almost 40% lower in patients who received low or no load compared to those who received high load.

Paediatricians oppose Health and Social Care Bill warning

A group of over 150 paediatricians warn that the UK Government's proposed reforms will lead to increased fragmentation in care, harming vulnerable children and families. The bill is expected to limit choice and increase inequalities in healthcare outcomes.

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.

Implantable microchip delivers medicine to women with osteoporosis

A new study shows that an implantable microchip can deliver medication on command, improving bone formation and reducing the risk of bone fracture in women with osteoporosis. The device, which is roughly the size of a pacemaker, releases medication via a wireless signal and has shown to be effective and safer than traditional injections.

Dog owners more likely to achieve recommended activity levels during pregnancy

A recent study by WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition and University of Liverpool found that pregnant women who own dogs are approximately 50% more likely to meet the recommended daily physical activity level. This research highlights the potential benefits of dog walking as a low-risk exercise strategy for managing weight gain during pre...

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.

'Honeycombs' and hexacopters help tell story of Mars

Researchers use aerial measurements from Washington State's Channeled Scablands to analyze Mars' jointed basalt columns, offering insights into the Red Planet's volcanic history. By studying the cracks and widths of these columns, scientists can infer the cooling rate of basalt on Mars.

Express yourself: How zygotes sort out imprinted genes

A team of scientists led by Bing Ren has discovered how differential DNA methylation in the parental genomes sets the stage for selective expression of imprinted genes. The study found parent-of-origin specific DNA methylation imprints at 1,952 dinucleotide sequences, including previously unknown regions.

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.

Puzzle play may help boost learning math-related skills

A study by University of Chicago researchers found that puzzle play between ages 2 and 4 is a significant predictor of spatial skill in preschoolers. Children who played with puzzles had better spatial skills than those who did not, on tasks that assessed their ability to rotate and translate shapes.

Anthrax-killing foam proves effective in meth lab cleanup

Sandia's decontamination foam is now used to clean up illegal methamphetamine labs, leaving chemicals harmless and surfaces safe for reuse. The foam contains mild, non-toxic chemicals that break down agent molecules into nontoxic pieces.

An 'immortal' devil's genome and the secrets of a cancer that's catching

Researchers sequenced the complete genome of an immortal Tasmanian devil and its transmissible cancer, providing insights into how the disease spread rapidly through the population. The study identified over 17,000 mutations in the cancer genome, which may lead to therapeutic strategies against cancer genes.

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.

NASA awards Goddard Institute for Space Studies contract

The Goddard Institute for Space Studies will receive specialized scientific support services from Trinnovim, LLC, under a $2.86 million contract. The services include scientific programming, analysis, and logistical support for GISS research programs.

Making motors more energy efficient

A UC Riverside researcher has received a $385,000 grant to evaluate the efficiency of HVAC motors in buildings through on-site testing and a new motor testing facility. The study aims to measure energy use under actual operating conditions and assess software used by architects and engineers designing HVAC systems.

International experts clarify hormonal changes of menopause

The new report updates the landmark STRAW system, providing a clearer understanding of reproductive aging in women from pre-menopause to the late postmenopausal period. The updated stages include significant revisions, offering more precise definitions and predictions for the onset of menopause.

Researchers find strange new nanoregion can form in quasicrystals

Researchers have found a new type of defect in quasicrystals that extends beyond the surface and into the bulk. This discovery sheds light on the relationship between surface and bulk defects in materials, which is crucial for understanding the strength and properties of nanostructures.

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.

Fruit flies use alcohol as a drug to kill parasites

A recent study by Emory University found that fruit flies infected with blood-borne parasites consume alcohol to increase their survival rate. The researchers discovered that the toxic effects of alcohol can be protective against infectious disease and raise an important question about whether other organisms, including humans, could c...

The splice of life: Proteins cooperate to regulate gene splicing

Researchers analyzed six RNA binding proteins that control genetic splicing, discovering they work together to regulate thousands of genes. The study highlights the importance of these proteins in maintaining cell homeostasis and may offer clues for rational drug design.

Nanoparticles may enhance cancer therapy

A new strategy combining carbon nanoparticles with chemotherapy and radiation therapy shows significant potential in treating head-and-neck cancers. The treatment uses nanoparticles to encapsulate chemotherapeutic drugs, delivering them directly to cancer cells.

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.

Video games lead to new paths to treat cancer, other diseases

Researchers at Wake Forest University used video game graphics processing units (GPUs) to simulate human cell behavior, revealing new insights into the telomerase enzyme and its role in cancer. The study's findings could lead to the development of new cancer treatments by targeting the enzyme.

When is a gene not a gene?

Researchers have developed a new catalogue of loss-of-function (LoF) variants to better understand the normal function of human genes. The study identifies over 1000 LoF variants, some of which are rare and potentially harmful, while others may not have a significant effect on health.

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.

How the 'Quarter' Horse won the rodeo

A new study has mapped the genome of a Quarter Horse mare using next-generation sequencing, revealing genetic variants associated with sensory perception, signal transduction, and immunity. The research found that Quarter Horses have more genetic variation than Thoroughbreds, particularly in genes involved in these traits.

Yale paper finds arsenic supply at highest risk

A Yale University study has assessed the criticality of metals in the geological copper family, finding arsenic as the most vulnerable to long-term supply disruption. The research methodology evaluates supply risk, environmental implications, and vulnerability to supply restriction, highlighting the importance of considering these fact...

Queen's soft tissue replacement technology gets a funding boost

Researchers at Queen's University have developed a soft tissue replacement technology using discarded human fat, showing promise in promoting natural soft tissue regeneration. The technology can be used to repair or replace damaged or missing soft tissue caused by various injuries or surgeries.

Marine protected areas: changing climate could require change of plans

Changes in ocean conditions and species shifts over the past 50 years suggest that static MPAs may not work as intended. New technological advances and collaboration will be necessary to design effective MPAs in a changing climate. Researchers are calling for greater foresight and flexibility in MPA management.

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.

Mother of pearl tells a tale of ocean temperature, depth

Researchers from University of Wisconsin-Madison find that nacre's microscopic structure can be used to measure water temperature and depth, providing a new tool for reconstructing ancient environments. The material's unique signature also holds information on environmental conditions.

Faculty retention proves a major challenge for universities

A new study from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute shows that men and women faculty are retained at the same rate, except in mathematics departments where women depart sooner. The median retention rate for all university professors is just 11 years, highlighting a significant challenge for universities.

Physician reminders don't improve care for kidney disease patients

A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that adding information on how to treat chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients to kidney test results did not improve care. The study included 22,092 patients with CKD and found no difference in the use of recommended medications between those who receive...

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.

Puzzle play improves math skills

A study by researchers at the University of Chicago found that puzzle play in children aged 2-4 years significantly improves their spatial skills, which are essential for mathematics, science, and technology. Higher income parents who engaged their children in puzzle play more frequently showed a greater impact on spatial skills develo...

New 'soft' motor made from artificial muscles

The team's proof-of-concept motor utilizes carbon-based switches to activate artificial muscles, which then rotate a shaft without external electronics or hard metal parts. The device has the potential to open doors for softer, lighter electrostatic motors with applications in prosthetics and soft robots.

Promising early results with therapeutic cancer vaccines

Researchers report growing success in combining therapeutic cancer vaccines with conventional chemotherapy, stimulating the immune system to destroy cancer cells. The first FDA-approved cancer vaccine is for metastatic prostate cancer, and several other strategies are being tested for various types of cancer.

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.

Salk researchers find new drug target for lung cancer

Salk researchers have identified a new potential drug target for treating certain types of lung cancer. By blocking the activity of the enzyme IKK2, which regulates inflammation, the study found that tumors grew more slowly and animals lived longer.

Computer sleuthing helps unravel RNA's role in cellular function

A new computational method has been developed to analyze RNA motifs, revealing new structural patterns that can help understand the role of RNA in cellular function. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for certain diseases, according to researchers at the University of Central Florida.

NASA sees Cyclone Giovanna enter the Mozambique Channel

Cyclone Giovanna has caused flooding and damage in Madagascar before entering the Mozambique Channel. The storm is expected to move westward towards Mozambique's southeastern coast, with wind shear preventing further strengthening.

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.

Working together to bounce back from disaster

A symposium on disaster recovery will focus on the importance of community preparation and collaboration in overcoming emergency hardships. The event aims to provide insights into strategies for resilience and faster recovery times.

Study shows that urinary mercury is not correlated with autism

A recent study of 56 children with autism spectrum disorders found no statistically significant correlation between urinary mercury levels and autism. The researchers suggest that mercury excretion rates are unlikely to have a clear causal link to autism spectrum disorders.

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.

Improved emergency treatment for prolonged seizures

A nationwide study has shown that injecting anticonvulsant medication into the thigh muscle using an autoinjector is as safe and more effective than traditional intravenous administration. The method resulted in 73% of patients being seizure-free upon arrival at the hospital, compared to 63% for those receiving IV treatment.

US Energy Department grants $1.87 million for plant fuel project

The US Energy Department has granted over $1.8 million to a researcher studying terpenoids in plants as a potential fuel source. The goal is to create a sustainable fuel production method that can be easily extracted from plants, reducing dependence on oil fields.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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