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Science News Archive January 2012


Page 3 of 24

Alcohol and your heart: Friend or foe?

A recent meta-analysis by CAMH found a complex relationship between alcohol consumption and ischaemic heart disease, with varying risks depending on gender, drinking patterns, and overall health outcomes. The study concludes that lower drinking limits for women are needed to inform safe drinking levels.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Jak of all trades? Not of leukaemia therapy!

Recent study finds that inhibiting JAK2 kinase does not benefit leukaemia patients, but blocking STAT5 signaling can prevent cell proliferation. This discovery challenges the approach to targeting JAK2 in CML treatment.

Cutting off the oxygen supply to serious diseases

Researchers have identified a new family of hypoxic regulator proteins that malfunction when dysregulated, contributing to the progression of serious diseases like cancer. This discovery may lead to the development of novel drug therapeutics to combat cancer and other oxygen-related disorders.

NASA scientists awarded distinctions as 2012 AGU elected Fellows

Dr. F. Michael Flasar, Dr. Anthony D. Del Genio and Dr. James Slavin recognized for their outstanding contributions to Earth and space sciences. Flasar's work on planetary atmospheres, including Titan's unique atmosphere, was highlighted as fundamental to understanding climate physics.

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.

MS drug prevented fatal heart condition in lab study

A lab study found that Gilenya, an MS treatment, reverses ventricular hypertrophy's symptoms and prevents fatal arrhythmias. Researchers discovered Pak1's role in heart disease and developed a potential new therapy.

Divorce hurts health more at earlier ages

A new study by Michigan State University sociologist Hui Liu found that divorce hurts people's health more at earlier ages. The research journal Social Science & Medicine revealed that older people have more coping skills to deal with the stress of divorce.

Defects in the packaging of DNA in malignant brain tumors

Researchers identified genetic alterations affecting proteins known as histones in 48 pediatric glioblastomas, with 36% of cases featuring histone mutations. These mutations, which occur rarely in adult glioblastoma, may hold key to developing new treatments for the most malignant type of brain tumor.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

ESC cardiologists 'intrigued'by novel approach to heart failure

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has shown significant improvements in peak post-ischemic blood flow in the arm and leg, suggesting a potential novel approach to heart failure treatment. However, further exploration is needed due to conflicting data on exercise capacity and inflammatory markers.

Biological time-keeper linked to diabetes

Researchers found 40 rare melatonin receptor mutations that increase diabetes risk nearly sevenfold. The study highlights the importance of genome sequencing in personalizing treatment for diabetic patients.

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.

Running robots

A team of engineers led by Ioannis Poulakakis aims to create robots that can run like animals, enabling them to access areas inaccessible to conventional vehicles. Using biomechanics research, they seek to develop a family of systematic control strategies that work with the robot's natural dynamics.

Bright lights of purity

Researchers found that impurities in quantum dots and nanorods lead to poor light emission, but heating them removes impurities, boosting luminescence. This technique enables the synthesis of high-quality nanocrystals for applications like bio-imaging and solar energy.

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.

Surprise finding redraws 'map' of blood cell production

A study by researchers from Walter and Eliza Hall Institute reveals that progenitor cells can develop into both megakaryocytes and red blood cells, rewriting the 'map' of blood cell production. The discovery has wide-ranging implications for understanding blood diseases and developing new treatments.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Mammals shrink at faster rates than they grow

Research reveals mammals reached maximum size after dinosaurs extinction, with sea mammals doubling time compared to land mammals, while extreme dwarfism occurred in just 100,000 generations.

Biodiversity enhances ecosystems global drylands -- Ben-Gurion U researchers

A study published in Science suggests that plant biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecosystem multi-functionality in drylands, which are vulnerable to desertification and climate change. The research found that increasing perennial plant species enhances ecosystem ability to store carbon and build nutrient pools.

New probiotic bacteria shows promise for use in shellfish aquaculture

Researchers at NOAA's Milford Laboratory have isolated a new probiotic bacterium, OY15, that significantly improves larval survival in oyster hatcheries. The study confirms the protective effect of naturally-occurring probiotic bacteria against bacterial disease and promotes healthy growth.

Livestock, not Mongolian gazelles, drive foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks

A recent study published by Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that livestock, not Mongolian gazelles, are the primary drivers of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in Mongolia. The research found that FMDV antibody prevalence in gazelle populations mirrored the dynamics of FMD in livestock across the Eastern Steppe.

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.

Mouse to elephant? Just wait 24 million generations

Research reveals that rates of size decrease are much faster than growth rates, with dwarfism occurring in just 100,000 generations. It takes at least 24 million generations for large-scale changes in body size to occur.

Oxford, Harvard scientists lead data-sharing effort

Researchers at University of Oxford and Harvard Stem Cell Institute have developed a common standard to describe and integrate large datasets from various fields, enabling better coordination of findings. The ISA Commons platform allows small research groups to store laboratory data without dedicated bioinformatics support.

Lifelong payoff for attentive kindergarten kids

A study published by Dr. Linda Pagani found that kindergarten attentiveness skills accurately predict later work-oriented behavior, with children who are well-engaged in the classroom exhibiting better self-control, confidence, and ability to follow directions.

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.

What do killer whales eat in the Arctic?

Researchers combined scientific observations with Canadian Inuit traditional knowledge to determine Arctic killer whale behaviour and diet. Arctic killer whales primarily eat marine mammals, such as seals and bowhead whales, but little is known about their prey preference.

The good news about carbon storage in tropical vegetation

A new study published in Nature Climate Change provides a high-resolution map of aboveground biomass density for the world's tropical forests, leading to better tracking of changes in biomass density and improved estimates of carbon emissions. With this map, countries can accurately report their greenhouse gas emissions under the UNFCCC.

Sexual healing? Not likely

Research by Monash University reveals that producing high-quality sperm comes with significant health costs for males. The study found a negative correlation between sperm quality and immune function, suggesting males invest energy strategically to produce better sperm.

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.

UCLA astronomers solve mystery of vanishing electrons

Researchers used data from orbiting spacecraft to discover that energetic electrons are swept away by solar wind particles during periods of heightened solar activity. The findings aim to improve predictions of geomagnetic storms and protect satellites and astronauts.

Ultrasound male contraceptive, overlooked for decades, confirmed to work

Researchers have confirmed that therapeutic ultrasound can be used as a male contraceptive, providing up to 2.5 months of protection in rats with two 15-minute sessions. The method was initially overlooked for decades due to concerns over its effectiveness, but new evidence suggests it may offer an alternative to existing options.

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.

2-arm blood pressure check indicator for risk from heart disease or death

Researchers at Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry found that differences in systolic blood pressure between arms are associated with increased risk of vascular disease and mortality. A difference of 10mm Hg or more is linked to an increased risk of peripheral vascular disease, pre-existing cerebrovascular disease, and mortality.

Body clock receptor linked to diabetes in new genetic study

A new genetic study has found a strong link between the body clock hormone melatonin and type 2 diabetes. Carrying rare genetic mutations in the MT2 gene increases a person's risk of developing type 2 diabetes six times, suggesting a direct link between melatonin regulation and insulin release.

That which does not kill yeast makes it stronger

Researchers found that stressful conditions increase chromosomal instability in yeast, allowing cells to rapidly adapt and acquire diverse aneuploid chromosome numbers. This stress-induced genetic variation enables yeast cells to thrive in environments with harsh conditions.

Sonicating sperm -- the future of male contraception

New research uses commercially available therapeutic ultrasound equipment to reduce sperm counts in male rats, resulting in infertility. The non-invasive treatment reduced sperm reserves far below levels seen in fertile men.

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.

Warming in the Tasman Sea a global warming hot spot

The Tasman Sea has become a global warming hotspot, with ocean temperatures rising two degrees warmer than 60 years ago due to intensified east-west winds and greenhouse gas emissions. A long-term monitoring network is needed to track these changes.

The many unexpected sides of romantic love

A study found that people primed with feelings of love for their partner behaved more aggressively towards attractive rivals. Meanwhile, researchers discovered that men who confess love first tend to feel happier than women in the long run.

Very good experiences don't just happen for patients

Rhode Island Hospital's new simulation-based training program, Project CLEAR!, aims to standardize communication skills among emergency department staff and enhance patient satisfaction. The program has been successfully implemented with nearly 400 staff members, resulting in improved quality of care, safety, and service.

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.

What really happened prior to 'Snowball Earth'?

Scientists analyze carbon isotopic composition in ancient rocks to understand conditions prior to the Marinoan glaciation, finding no link between changes and global glacial events. The research suggests alteration by freshwater as sea level fell is responsible for observed geochemical patterns.

The pupils are the windows to the mind

A new study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science explores the use of pupilometry, a technique measuring pupil diameter, to gain insights into human behavior. By analyzing changes in pupil size, researchers can identify what people are paying attention to, shedding light on brain function and cognitive processes.

SwRI-led RAD measures radiation from solar storm

The Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD) has measured the radiation a human astronaut could be exposed to during a recent solar storm. The data collected will provide valuable information for future human space exploration, including insights into the physics of giant clouds and shielding provided by spacecraft.

Body location plays part in scratching pleasure

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that itching sensations vary by body site, with the ankles and backs exhibiting greater intensity and longer-lasting relief through scratching. Researchers suggest specific nerve fibers may be involved in pleasure-related sensations.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Research on vitamins could lead to the design of novel drugs to combat malaria

Scientists at the University of Southampton have discovered the atomic structures of malarial enzymes responsible for vitamin B6 biosynthesis, paving the way for the development of new antimalarial chemotherapeutics. This research could lead to a breakthrough in combating malaria, which affects nearly 250 million people worldwide.

Head & neck cancer in transplant patients: For better or worse?

A new study found that transplant patients with head and neck cancer are more likely to be non-smokers and non-drinkers, and less likely to survive past one year of diagnosis. The risk for developing head and neck cancer is small, but the study highlights the need for regular screenings and aggressive treatment.

Assessment of COPD exacerbation severity with the COPD Assessment Test

A new study found that the CAT questionnaire is a reliable tool for assessing COPD exacerbation severity, reflecting both exacerbation length and reduction in lung function. The CAT scores were also weakly related to systemic inflammatory markers and elevated in stable patients with a history of frequent exacerbations.

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.