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Science News Archive February 2012 - Page 20


Page 20 of 30

New drugs schedule makes horse racing a sure thing

A new schedule pinpointing the length of time it takes for therapeutic drugs to work out of a horse's system has been developed, providing greater certainty for horse owners, trainers, and vets. This will enable them to make better-informed decisions about treatment regimes and reduce the risk of false positives.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateFeb 10, 2012

'It's not nutritious until it's eaten'

A study found that making one lunch line a convenience line with healthy grab-and-go foods increased sales of nutritious options by 18% and decreased consumption of unhealthy foods by nearly 28%. This approach helped students take more milk, leading to a share of healthier foods increasing from 33% to 36%.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateFeb 10, 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.

Medical center-based farmers markets improve health

A study by Penn State researchers found that medical center-based farmers markets contribute to greater wellness in surrounding communities while adding public health value. The markets provide a sustainable supply of healthy foods, enable community wellness partnerships, and empower local economies.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 9, 2012

Deadly bird parasite evolves at exceptionally fast rate

A devastating bird disease caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum has spread rapidly across North America, with the bacteria evolving at a faster rate than previously estimated. The microbe has lost over 50 genes, including those that make up its immune system, since making the switch to its new host.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 9, 2012

New avenue for treating colon cancer

Researchers have identified an imbalance in the HNF4A gene variant as a potential biomarker for colon cancer. The study suggests that certain genetic variations may make individuals more susceptible to the disease, and drugs targeting Src kinase activity could potentially prevent or treat it.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 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.

Model analyzes shape-memory alloys for use in earthquake-resistant structures

Shape-memory alloys exhibit unique properties that make them suitable for earthquake-resistant construction and retrofit applications. A Georgia Tech model assesses the behavior of these alloys under loading conditions, predicting internal temperature and stress distributions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Non-Linear Mechanics·DateFeb 9, 2012

Decoding the molecular machine behind E. coli and cholera

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London discovered the workings behind a bacterial secretion system responsible for delivering potent toxins from bacteria such as E. coli and Vibrio cholerae. Understanding this mechanism could lead to the development of new antibiotics to effectively treat bacterial infections.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 9, 2012

Cell death unleashes full force of human antiviral system

Researchers found that cytotoxic T lymphocytes are triggered by damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) released after cell death, which signals a strong immune response. The presence of interleukin 33 (IL-33) amplifies this response, holding promise for developing new vaccines against infectious diseases and cancer.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience·DateFeb 9, 2012

New research shows C-section not always best for babies

New research challenges conventional wisdom on C-sections for preterm babies, finding they may contribute to breathing problems. Small for gestational age babies delivered by c-section before 34 weeks had a 30 percent higher odds of developing respiratory distress syndrome than those born vaginally.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·DateFeb 9, 2012
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.

Aid missions get cutting-edge assistance from ONR

The Office of Naval Research has developed a web-based tool suite called TRACS to help first responders rapidly coordinate resources during disasters. The tool takes data from the United Nations' ReliefWeb and displays it on a map-based diagram showing the locations of various resources, such as food, shelter, and health supplies.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateFeb 9, 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.

Study finds pregnant women with prior cesarean choose the delivery method preferred by their doctor

A study found that pregnant women with a prior cesarean section often choose the delivery method preferred by their doctor, regardless of their own knowledge on the risks and benefits. The majority of these women opt for an elective repeat cesarean over a trial of labor, despite its higher success rate. Lack of education and provider p...

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2012

Scripps research scientists identify most lethal known species of prion protein

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have identified a single prion protein that causes neuronal death similar to 'mad cow' disease, with toxic effects up to 10 times more potent than larger prion species. The study opens new avenues for exploring neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2012

New method makes culture of complex tissue possible in any lab

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new method for culturing complex tissue in three-dimensional arrangements. The approach allows for the production of tissue culture scaffolds with multiple structurally and chemically distinct layers, enabling broader accessibility and potential applications in tissue engineering.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 9, 2012

Amazing skin gives sharks a push

Researchers found that shark skin's denticles boost swimming speed by creating a turbulent flow pattern around the body, reducing drag and increasing propulsion. The unique arrangement of denticles on the skin surface enhances fluid dynamics, leading to a significant improvement in swimming performance.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 9, 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.

Vanderbilt study shows high cost of defensive medicine

A national survey of 2000 orthopedic surgeons found that 96% practice defensive medicine, accounting for 24% of imaging studies, laboratory tests, consultations, and hospital admissions. The average cost per month is $8,485, totaling $2 billion annually.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateFeb 9, 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.

University of Minnesota and start-up to develop antidote to cyanide poisoning

Researchers at the University of Minnesota developed an antidote for cyanide poisoning called Sulfanegen, which can be administered rapidly by intra-muscular injection. The treatment could save lives in mass casualty emergencies and smoke inhalation incidents, where current treatments require medical professionals' expertise.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·DateFeb 9, 2012

To perform with less effort, practice beyond perfection

A University of Colorado Boulder study found that continued practice after mastering a task can decrease overall energy costs by up to 20%, making movements more efficient. The research, led by Assistant Professor Alaa Ahmed, used robotic arm exercises to measure metabolic cost and muscle activity in test subjects.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateFeb 9, 2012

From the University of Houston's Texas Obesity Research Center

The Texas Obesity Research Center (TORC) has developed a research group to examine three childhood obesity programs, including MEND and CATCH. TORC is also partnering with the community to improve health and end obesity through community-based participatory research methods.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 9, 2012

Genetic risks for type 2 diabetes span multiple ethnicities

A recent large and comprehensive analysis of 50,000 genetic variants has identified four genes associated with type 2 diabetes and six independent disease-associated variants at previously known loci. The study provides valuable insight into the genetic risk for T2D across multiple ethnicities.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 9, 2012

Fruit flies drawn to the sweet smell of youth

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Michigan have discovered that fruit flies' pheromones affect their sexual attractiveness differently as they age. In a study, male flies preferred younger females with more attractive pheromones.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 9, 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.

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.

Anyone can learn to be more inventive, says UMass Amherst cognitive researcher

A UMass Amherst cognitive researcher has developed a systematic approach to enhancing creativity by teaching people to notice obscure features and build solutions around them. The technique, known as the generic parts technique (GPT), was shown to improve problem-solving skills in individuals trained with it.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 9, 2012

Obesity is associated with altered brain function

Researchers found that obese individuals' brains exhibit altered glucose metabolism in reward regions, leading to increased food cravings. The study suggests the brain plays a crucial role in obesity and weight gain, highlighting potential for new treatments.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 9, 2012

Study finds in utero surgery preferable to surgery

A study published by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine finds that in utero surgery is more cost-effective for children with spina bifida, resulting in improved quality of life. The study also highlights the significant healthcare costs associated with caring for a child with significant deficits.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2012

Study finds residence in US a risk factor for preterm birth

A study found that Hispanic women living in the US for less than 10 years have a 3.4% frequency of preterm birth, while those living for 10 or more years have twice the risk and 7.4% frequency. This suggests environmental factors may contribute to preterm birth and are potentially modifiable.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New technology platform for molecule-based electronics

Graphene flakes are used to protect molecules from short circuits, paving the way for new electronics in memory technology, displays, and solar cells. The development solves a decade-old problem and allows for alternative conductive and non-conductive molecules to be used.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 9, 2012

Deconstructing a mystery: What caused Snowmaggedon?

Researchers found El Niño's warm sea surface temperatures and the North Atlantic Oscillation's fluctuation contributed to extreme winter storms in the US. The study used a computer model to simulate the atmosphere and isolated the role of sea surface temperatures in driving snowstorms.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 9, 2012

New integrated building model may improve fish farming operations

A new building-integrated aquaculture (BIAq) model aims to improve fish farming operations by combining building design, fish ecology, and aquaculture engineering techniques. The model aims to provide an affordable, holistic, and sustainable approach to indoor fish production, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateFeb 9, 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.

Racial disparities exist in access to kidney transplantation

A new study found racial disparities exist in access to kidney transplantation, with black patients facing a 59% lower rate of transplant. Socioeconomic factors explain about 30% of the disparity, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateFeb 9, 2012

Diagnosing developmental coordination disorder

A new study from the University of Haifa identifies developmental coordination disorder (DCD) in children through a simple writing task, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment. Children with DCD struggle with motor coordination, leading to difficulties in everyday tasks like dressing and typing.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·DateFeb 9, 2012

Storm warning: Financial tsunami heading this way

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have developed a market 'seismograph' to measure interconnections between stock markets globally. This method can detect early signs of global crisis and provide measures to mitigate its spread.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 9, 2012

Nanotube therapy takes aim at breast cancer stem cells

Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have developed a nanotube therapy that kills breast cancer stem cells by generating heat using laser treatment. The approach has shown promise in eliminating both differentiated cells and cancer stem cells, offering new hope for a cure.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 9, 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.

Ocean warming causes elephant seals to dive deeper

Researchers found that southern elephant seals from Marion Island dive deeper for food when encountering warmer waters. The new sensor will track feeding behavior to understand the distribution of productive zones in the South Polar Sea.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateFeb 9, 2012

Secrets of immune response illuminated in new study

Researchers at Arizona State University investigate the coordination of a particular type of immune response involving the release of IFN-λ, a cell-signaling protein molecule. They found that antigen-independent production of IFN-λ by memory T cells relies on splenic dendritic cells and NOD-like receptors.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 9, 2012

NASA sees Tropical Storm 12S - a possible threat to Madagascar

Tropical Storm 12S forms in Southern Indian Ocean, posing a threat to Madagascar with strong winds and heavy rainfall. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects landfall in east central Madagascar on February 13, as the storm strengthens due to warm sea surface temperatures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 9, 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.

How the zebra got its stripes

Research suggests that zebra stripes are the least attractive pattern for voracious horseflies, potentially explaining their evolution. The study found that narrower stripes were less appealing to flies, with striped patterns attracting fewer insects than white or dark models.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 9, 2012

US workers are 'giving away the store,' costing firms billions

A study by Michigan State University found that nearly 70% of service employees engage in 'sweethearting,' giving away free goods and services to customers. By adding screening questions focused on risk-taking and ethics, employers can identify 'bad apples' and avoid hiring them.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateFeb 9, 2012

New prenatal genetic test is much more powerful at detecting fetal abnormalities

A nationwide study has found that chromosomal microarray testing detects additional genetic abnormalities in about 1 in 70 normal karyotype samples and 6% of cases with structural abnormalities. The new test may soon replace standard karyotyping for prenatal testing, providing more information on potential disorders.

SourceNew York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 9, 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.

Automatic suspension of insulin delivery via insulin pumps reduces hypoglycemia

A study found that automatic suspension of insulin delivery via insulin pumps reduces the severity and duration of hypoglycemia in individuals with type 1 diabetes. The 'low glucose suspend' feature significantly decreases hypoglycemic episodes, reducing the risk of rebound hyperglycemia.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateFeb 9, 2012

Annual cost of defensive orthopaedic medicine estimated at $2 billion

A recent study has estimated the annual cost of defensive orthopaedic care in the US at $2 billion. The study found that 96% of orthopaedic surgeons ordered tests and referrals primarily to avoid malpractice liability, resulting in a significant increase in healthcare costs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 9, 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.