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Science News Archive February 2012 - Page 11


Page 11 of 30

Reformulated imatinib eliminates morphine tolerance in lab studies

Researchers have developed a reformulated imatinib that prevents and reverses morphine tolerance in rats, offering new hope for treating chronic intractable pain. The study's findings suggest the potential to reduce debilitating side effects associated with morphine use.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 19, 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.

Studying the evolution of life's building blocks

A Michigan State University professor is exploring the origin of life at its fundamental building blocks, finding connections between bacteria and humans through molecular complementarity. This shared set of modules may hold the key to understanding evolution and explaining diseases like diabetes.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 19, 2012

Pulsars: The Universe's gift to physics

Researchers use pulsars to test General Relativity in extremely strong gravity and directly detect gravitational waves. Pulsar timing arrays may reveal evidence for cosmic strings and the early Universe.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateFeb 19, 2012

The USP15 biological thermostat: A promising novel therapeutic target in cancer

The USP15 protein has been identified as a critical regulator of cancer progression and immune response, accelerating drug development against glioblastoma and other types of cancer. USP15 promotes tumor growth by activating the TGFβ pathway, but its inhibition can lead to decreased TGFβ activity and reduced tumor development.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 19, 2012

Deadly carbon monoxide prevents miscarriage

Researchers discovered that low-dose carbon monoxide therapy restored placental function, preventing fetal death and growth restriction. The treatment also showed anti-inflammatory properties and increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, promoting blood vessel repair.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMedical Gas Research·DateFeb 19, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A surprising molecular switch

Researchers at the Stowers Institute have discovered a new mechanism controlling cell polarity in yeast. An enzyme called flippase flips phospholipids to create a polarized membrane, with all molecules involved found in both yeast and mammalian cells. This discovery opens up avenues for studying human diseases.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 19, 2012

Director discusses cancer evolution at prestigious conference

Professor Mike Stratton discusses the evolution of the cancer genome at the AAAS annual meeting, highlighting advances in whole genome sequencing and the development of COSMIC catalogue. This research provides insights into cancer causation, prevention, and treatment, with potential global solutions through international collaboration.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·DateFeb 19, 2012

Livestock science will benefit sub-Saharan Africa

Experts discuss ways to modernize livestock production in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on technology implementation and high-quality veterinary services. The session aims to improve animal welfare, increase protein quality, and address food security challenges.

SourceUniversity of Idaho·DateFeb 19, 2012

Faulty fat sensor implicated in obesity and liver disease

A study published in Nature suggests that faulty fat sensor GPR120 may contribute to obesity and liver disease. Mice deficient in GPR120 are more prone to developing these conditions when fed a high-fat diet, highlighting the protein as a promising target for new treatments.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateFeb 19, 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.

X-rays illuminate the interior of the Moon

Scientists used X-rays to measure the density of lunar magma at extreme pressures and temperatures. The results show that most magmas are less dense than their surroundings, but a specific type of titanium-rich magma is denser and won't rise to the surface.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 19, 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.

A step toward better electronics

Researchers at Northwestern University have created a new method to oxidize graphene, overcoming the material's zero band-gap issue. The reversible oxidation process enables tunability of electronic properties, paving the way for high-performance applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 19, 2012

Southwest pueblo-dwellers key to modern climate policy?

Arizona State anthropologist Michelle Hegmon's research draws on the past to inform modern climate policy, exploring how societies adapted to change and what it was like to live in those societies. Her work offers lessons on tradeoffs and the human experience in times of climate change.

SourceArizona State University·DateFeb 19, 2012
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.

A classic model for ecological stability revised, 40 years later

Researchers Stefano Allesina and Si Tang refined Robert May's 1972 formula to incorporate predator-prey relationships, allowing for greater ecosystem diversity. The new model predicts that large ecosystems can support an infinite number of species through complex interactions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature·DateFeb 19, 2012

Scientists prove Turing's tiger stripe theory

Researchers have provided experimental evidence confirming Alan Turing's 1950s theory on how biological patterns such as tiger stripes are formed. The study identifies the specific morphogens involved in this process, including FGF and Shh, and demonstrates a mechanism that is widely relevant in vertebrate development.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 19, 2012

New brain connections form in clusters during learning

New connections between brain cells form in clusters as animals learn to perform a new task, according to a study published in Nature. The researchers found that clustered synapses are more likely to persist through the learning sessions and after training stopped.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateFeb 19, 2012

Cutting-edge science creating solutions for African agriculture

African scientists are being enabled to partner on new research programs focusing on animal and crop health, with the goal of improving productivity under challenges like diseases and abiotic stresses. The BecA-ILRI Hub has set up a capacity building fund called the Africa Biosciences Challenge Fund (ABCF) for African scientists.

SourceBiosciences eastern and central Africa Hub (BecA-ILRI Hub)·DateFeb 19, 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.

Single-atom transistor is 'perfect'

Researchers at University of New South Wales create perfect single-atom transistor for unparalleled computational efficiency, marking significant step towards quantum computer development. The device's precise accuracy and electronic characteristics match theoretical predictions, paving the way for future technological innovations.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 19, 2012

Better models needed to track atmospheric pollution's impact on health, climate

Researchers emphasize the need for improved computer models of black carbon and other aerosol pollutants to accurately forecast health and climate impacts. The use of satellite data from NASA-funded projects has shown that air pollution can be transported across continents, with significant effects on local and regional climate.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·DateFeb 19, 2012

Glaciers: A window into human impact on the global carbon cycle

Research reveals glaciers record anthropogenic perturbation, highlighting the impact of human activities on the global carbon cycle. The study found that glacier ecosystems are post-industrial and provide a unique perspective for understanding climate change.

SourceWoodwell Climate Research Center·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 19, 2012

Obstacles holding back healthier foods from your table

A lack of proof-of-concept funding and inadequate market intelligence hinder the development of game-changing food innovations. Researchers at the University of Guelph highlight regulatory environments that can stall potentially life-saving discoveries like enriched milk with DHA and blood-pressure-lowering pea fragments.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·DateFeb 18, 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.

UVic researchers among presenters at global science conference

Researchers from UVic will discuss climate change impacts on Canada's water supply, explore the intersection of neuroscience and pop culture, and address energy efficiency solutions. Climate modeling indicates rapid permafrost melting could lead to significant loss of high-latitude wetlands.

SourceUniversity of Victoria·DateFeb 18, 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.

Repelling the knapweed invasion

Research by Judith Myers introduces a beetle to North America to feast on invasive knapweed, causing a significant decline in the plant's presence. The program shows $17 in economic benefit for every dollar spent, making it a win for the economy and ecology.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·DateFeb 18, 2012

The star factory: observing Arp 220

McMaster University's Christine Wilson presents findings on galaxy Arp 220's dazzling rate of star formation, which is 200 times faster than our own Milky Way. The star forming core of Arp 220 is only about 3,000 light years across.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·DateFeb 18, 2012

Gamma-ray bursts' highest power side unveiled by Fermi telescope

Astrophysicists have uncovered new questions and clarified previous theories about gamma-ray bursts using the Fermi Gamma-Ray Space Telescope. The telescope's unique view allows it to capture the highest energy portion of these bursts, which are difficult to detect due to their brief duration and narrow radiation patterns.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 18, 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.

Alzheimer's drugs may have adverse side effects

A study with mice suggests Alzheimer's drugs could miswire neurons, interfering with brain communication. The findings imply that these drugs might impair memory, even at doses intended to reduce amyloid plaques.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·DateFeb 18, 2012

Ocean acidification turns climate change winners into losers: UBC research

Research by UBC scientists finds that adding ocean acidification and deoxygenation to climate change projections can significantly reduce fish catch potential in certain regions. For example, the Norwegian Sea may see a 15% decrease in fisheries catch potential due to combined effects of warming and acidification.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateFeb 18, 2012

Atomtronics: A new phase

Researchers discover several new phases of atomtronic matter, including a 'bond-order solid' with strong long-range dipole interactions. These phases are associated with the controlled movement of ultracold atoms in an optical lattice and have potential applications for data encoding and quantum computing.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 18, 2012

'Duet of 1' possible with hand-controlled voice synthesizer

A UBC researcher has created a hand-controlled voice synthesizer that uses gestures to produce sounds, mirroring human vocal control. The technology has potential applications in music and assistive communication, allowing users to express themselves in new ways.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateFeb 18, 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.

New combo of chemo and well-known malaria drug delivers double punch to tumors

Researchers have discovered that adding hydroxychloroquine to various cancer therapies can enhance their effectiveness in treating treatment-resistant cancers. By blocking autophagy, a process by which cells recycle damaged proteins, the combination of chemotherapy and HCQ can lead to improved outcomes for patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2012

From 'science from above' to 'science in the community'

The International Polar Year created a new model for northern research, where communities define research questions and use traditional knowledge. Community members, including elders and youth, are now taking up the mantle to sustain research efforts.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·DateFeb 18, 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.

Teaching science to the religious? Focus on how theories develop

Kenneth Miller, a biologist and practicing Catholic, teaches evolution by tracing its development rather than presenting it as doctrine. He aims to help students understand the evidence and logic behind scientific theories. By taking a pragmatic approach, Miller has found that religious students can accept science more effectively.

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 18, 2012

Peat fires could accelerate climate change

Research by Douglas Woolford and Mike Flannigan suggests that peat fires in Canada are becoming increasingly frequent and intense due to climate change. The study finds that the forest fire season is lengthening, and the risk of peat fires is increasing, with potentially devastating consequences for the environment.

SourceNatural Sciences and Engineering Research Council·DateFeb 18, 2012

A new EEG shows how brain tracts are formed

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have developed a new EEG method to monitor brain development in premature infants. The technology has provided valuable insights into how brain tracts are formed and has enabled the detection of previously unexplained brain events, leading to improved treatments and care.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateFeb 18, 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.

Twists to quantum technique for secret messaging give unanticipated power

Researchers have developed quantum cryptography protocols that can counter even a malicious manipulator controlling the setup, offering a measure of genuine randomness in keys. The breakthrough builds on recent twists that give quantum cryptography powerful boost against eavesdroppers.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·DateFeb 18, 2012
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.

Improving logistics of biofuel raw materials

A new logistics model for biofuel raw materials is proposed by MSU researchers, utilizing regional biomass processing depots to process feedstocks before shipping to refineries. This approach aims to reduce transportation costs and distances, while providing economic benefits to farmers who own part of the depots.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 17, 2012

Babies know what's fair

Infants exhibit longer looking times when one giraffe gets both toys or the slacker gets a reward in both experiments, indicating an expectation of fairness. The study suggests that children are born with innate expectations about fairness, shaped by culture and environment.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 17, 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.

Who goes there?

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have devised a new type of network that allows users to authenticate without relying on unique identities. The novel network structure eliminates identity theft, loss of anonymity and misplaced trust by using an addressing system with user-selected pseudonyms.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Security and Networks·DateFeb 17, 2012