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Science News Archive July 2012


Page 12 of 26

UNC researchers discover promising new treatment for egg allergy

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found that eating small amounts of egg every day for months lowered the threshold for allergic reactions in 75% of children with egg allergies. After two years on treatment, 28% were able to incorporate egg into their regular diets.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Are cardiac risk factors linked to less blood flow to the brain?

A study found that people with metabolic syndrome, a combination of heart disease and type 2 diabetes risk factors, have 15% less blood flow to the brain than those without the condition. This could lead to reduced memory skills, but it is unclear if it will increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Children allergic to eggs can benefit from 'egg therapy'

A federally funded study found that oral immunotherapy can retrain the immune system to tolerate eggs in children with egg allergies. In a 10-month study, 35 of 40 children treated with escalating doses of egg powder experienced improvement, with 11 achieving complete long-term elimination of egg-related allergic reactions.

Enhanced royal jelly produces jumbo queen bee larvae

Royal jelly's composition can be modified to change the body size of queen bees during development, with a potential impact on human health. The study uses histone deacetylase inhibitors to create super RJ, leading to increased larva growth and potential health benefits.

Heliophysics nugget: Riding the plasma wave

Researchers have discovered a type of plasma wave moving faster than expected, suggesting electrical instabilities may be driving the waves. This finding could lead to a better understanding of how heat and energy are transferred through plasma.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study shows colon and rectal tumors constitute a single type of cancer

The study found that colon and rectal cancers have nearly indistinguishable genomic alterations, leading researchers to group them as one type of cancer. Several recurrent genetic errors contribute to colorectal cancer, with potential targets for treatment identified including genes ERBB2 and IGF2.

Hookah smoking increasingly common among first-year college women

A study by The Miriam Hospital's Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine found that nearly a quarter of first-year college women try hookah smoking for the first time during their freshman year. Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased likelihood of hookah initiation, while marijuana use predicts frequency of use.

This is your brain on pain

UTMB professor Volker Neugebauer is conducting a four-year, $1.36 million study on the relationship between pain and brain functions, particularly the amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex. The investigation aims to understand how abnormal pain input affects the brain's emotional response and decision-making processes.

Sugar-sweetened drinks are not replacing milk in kid's diets

A new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests that sugar-sweetened beverages are not replacing milk in children's diets. Instead, changes in milk consumption were found to be related to changes in fruit juice intake.

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.

Lungs respond to hospital ventilator as if it were an infection

Researchers at Ohio State University found that mechanical pressures from hospital ventilators stimulate an innate immune response in lung cells, leading to excessive inflammation. The study identified potential drug targets, including a microRNA and two proteins, that could reduce inflammation.

New studies show spinal cord injury and ALS respond to cell transplantation

Researchers found that mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in animal models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injury promotes functional recovery. Bone marrow cell transplantation coupled with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor also shows neuroprotective and angiogenic effects in ALS animal models.

NIH to test maraviroc-based drug regimens for HIV prevention

The NIH is launching a clinical trial to test the safety and tolerability of maraviroc-based pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) regimens for HIV prevention. The study aims to reduce the risk of infection by enrolling 400 HIV-uninfected men who have sex with men in 12 cities across the US and Puerto Rico.

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.

Stanford-SLAC team uses X-ray imaging to observe running batteries in action

Researchers used high-power X-ray imaging to study a working lithium-sulfur battery, finding that sulfur particles largely remained intact during discharge. This challenges previous experiments that found sulfur was chemically transformed into Li2S-polysulfide sheets, which prevented the battery from operating.

Friends with benefits

Amanita mushroom evolution shifts from decomposing to symbiotic tree relationships, resulting in lost genetic capacity, according to Harvard researchers. The study reveals the transition came at a steep price, with genes associated with breaking down cellulose being sacrificed.

Unique Neandertal arm morphology due to scraping, not spearing

New research suggests that Neandertal arm morphology was caused by scraping activities such as hide preparation, not spear thrusting. This challenges the previous hypothesis that spear thrusting was responsible for the observed asymmetry in their skeletons.

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.

Leading scientists call for improved innovation policy across Europe

A new report by the European Science Foundation highlights ten key issues in innovation policy, including the need for context-specific policies and better understanding of knowledge transfer. The report calls for a more evidence-based approach to innovation policy, with a focus on public value and risk-sharing models.

Study points to causes of high dolphin deaths in Gulf of Mexico

A two-year study published in PLOS ONE found that the largest oil spill on open water, combined with cold freshwater from snowmelt, led to historically high dolphin deaths in the Gulf of Mexico. The majority of young dolphins (perinatal strandings) washed ashore along the Mississippi-Alabama coast.

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.

New metric for obesity strongly correlated to premature death

Researchers have developed a new body shape index (ABSI) that combines BMI and waist circumference to predict mortality hazard independently of BMI. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 US adults, finding ABSI to be strongly correlated with death rate.

Calculations reveal fine line for hydrogen release from storage materials

Scientists at UC Santa Barbara shed light on the kinetics of hydrogen release from aluminum hydride, a material that is highly promising for energy storage. Their research reveals the basic mechanisms governing these chemical reactions in general, challenging outdated reaction curve interpretations.

What it takes to be the perfect invading parasite

Researchers from the Zoological Society of London identified the factors influencing the success of malaria parasites in New Zealand bird species, including two previously unknown strains. The study's findings provide insights into the traits that enable parasites to survive and thrive in new environments.

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.

Helping pigs to digest phosphorus

A study by the University of Illinois discovered that supplementing pig feed with varying levels of phytase increases phosphorus digestibility in different ingredients. The research found that enzymes can unlock bound phosphorus, reducing environmental impact and costs for producers.

Reporting of hospital infection rates and burden of C. difficile

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that public reporting of hospital-acquired infection data led to a significant reduction in C. difficile cases. The study showed a 26% decrease in C. difficile infections after mandatory hospital reporting was introduced in Ontario, Canada.

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.

SUPERGEN hub to address burning bioenergy questions

The new hub will address pressing challenges in bioenergy, including reducing emissions and improving sustainability. It will focus on whole-life impact, cost-effective methods, and creating economic opportunities for the UK.

Search continues for submerged evidence of early Americans

A team led by Dr. James Adovasio and Dr. C. Andrew Hemmings will explore ancient coastlines in the northeastern Gulf to determine where early Americans might have lived over 12,000 years ago. The mission aims to shed light on the peopling of the Americas and may uncover new evidence that challenges current archaeological record.

Obesity plus low vitamin D may add up to a greater risk of diabetes

Research from Drexel University School of Public Health found that obese individuals with low vitamin D levels had insulin resistance 32 times more common than the general population. The combination of obesity and vitamin D deficiency may put people at a greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Genetic link to rapid weight gain from antipsychotics discovered

Two genetic variants have been found to be associated with rapid weight gain in patients taking antipsychotic medications. These variations near the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) gene may enable clinicians to identify which patients are at risk and choose strategies to prevent serious side effects.

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.

Trials involving switching HIV drugs may not be beneficial to participants

A new study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that non-inferiority trials, which involve switching HIV patients to a new antiretroviral therapy, may not be beneficial to participants. The authors argue that these trials often enroll patients who cannot benefit from the switch and do not capture or report all potential risks.

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.

Study shows how aging impairs immune response

Researchers found that aging mice's dendritic cells accumulated oxidation-damaged proteins, impairing their function. Administering antioxidants reversed some effects, suggesting a potential therapy to improve vaccine responses in the elderly.

'Sifting' liquid at the molecular level

Researchers develop method for separating liquids using individual carbon nanotubes, which act as separation channels for chemically distinct molecules. This technology could prove useful in forensic studies and analyzing molecules from single cells, enabling analysis of trace evidence and invisible stains.

Clemson researcher: Humanizing computer aids affects trust, dependence

A recent study by Clemson University psychologist Richard Pak found that humanizing computer aids can significantly alter perceptions of their reliability, leading to increased trust and dependence among adults. The design of decision-support aids on consumer devices plays a crucial role in shaping user behavior.

Drug shown to improve memory in those with Down syndrome

Researchers have discovered a drug that boosts memory function in individuals with Down syndrome, improving verbal episodic memory and showing significant improvement in cognitive abilities. The study suggests potential implications for slowing down or halting the development of Alzheimer's disease in adults with Down syndrome.

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.

Physicians' focus on risks for stroke and dementia saved lives, money

A German study found that focusing on high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, irregular heartbeat, and depression reduced the need for long-term care by 10% in women and 9.6% in men. The study also showed a decrease in death rates, with 2,112 expected deaths vs. 1,939 actual deaths.

Mammography screening shows limited effect on breast cancer mortality in Sweden

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that breast cancer mortality rates in Swedish women aged 40-69 declined at a rate similar to the prescreening period, suggesting limited impact of mammography screening. Researchers note potential limitations, including obesity and population mobility biases.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Refining the tool kit for sustainable fisheries

A new study by UCSB researchers refines the tool kit for sustainable fisheries, finding that a mix of spatial management approaches can substantially increase fishery profits. Strategically placed MPAs and nuanced zoning systems can also boost profits, but careful placement is crucial.

A 'Kit' for increasing insulin production

A new study published in Diabetologia found that overexpressing the c-Kit receptor increases insulin production and counteracts early diabetic effects of high-fat diets. This breakthrough research provides a promising lead for developing strategies to preserve and restore function to beta cells.

A nursing program shows promise for reducing deaths from chronic illnesses

A community-based nursing program delivered in collaboration with existing healthcare services showed promise in reducing deaths from chronic illnesses among older adults. The study, published in PLOS Medicine, found a 25% lower relative risk of death among intervention group participants compared to the control group.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

The electric atmosphere: Plasma is next NASA science target

The RBSP mission seeks to characterize the Van Allen Radiation Belts, which contain 99% of the universe's electrified gas. The study will address questions about particle origins, mechanisms giving them extreme speed and energy, and their effects on Earth's magnetosphere.

Sodium buildup in brain linked to disability in multiple sclerosis

A new study published in Radiology found that sodium accumulation in the brain correlates directly with disability in multiple sclerosis patients. The research used 3 Tesla sodium MRI to detect abnormal sodium concentrations in specific brain regions and throughout the whole brain.

Marriage has different meanings for blacks and whites

A large national study found that marriage does not boost longevity for black Americans in the same way it does for white Americans. Black couples who live together without marrying have similar mortality rates as married black couples.