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Science News Archive July 2012


Page 5 of 26

Switching the state of matter

Researchers at RIKEN have created a new transistor that uses electrostatic accumulation of charge on a strongly-correlated material to trigger bulk switching of electronic state. The device operates at room temperature and requires only 1V to switch the material from an insulator to a metal.

Teamwork against Benzene

Researchers from Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research identified three teams of bacteria working together to degrade benzene, a highly toxic substance. By analyzing proteins, they shed light on the complex process, which could also apply to other bacterial cooperatives.

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.

The brightest stars don't live alone

A study using the VLT found that 75% of O-type stars are in binary systems, with a higher proportion of interacting pairs than previously thought. This discovery has profound implications for galaxy evolution, as these heavyweights play a key role in shaping galaxies through violent phenomena such as stellar mergers and gamma-ray bursts.

Entropy can lead to order, paving the route to nanostructures

Computer simulations show that entropy can nudge particles into forming organized structures, with nearly 70% of tested shapes producing crystal-like structures. The researchers used 145 different shapes and analyzed how each behaved under different levels of crowding to predict which types of crystals would form.

Environmental groups should pool efforts to reach the public

A study suggests that environmental groups can collaborate to inform the public about environmental concerns, leading to improved efficiency and targeted messaging. By leveraging existing connections and seizing strategic opportunities, organizations can build public knowledge and empowerment in environmental decision-making.

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.

New research seeks to improve survival for myeloma and lymphoma patients

Researchers at the University of York are launching a major study to improve survival rates for myeloma and lymphoma patients through earlier diagnosis. The study aims to develop an evidence base that could reduce time-to-diagnosis in patients with these cancers, ultimately saving thousands of lives.

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.

Ancient mummy had lung infection, according to novel proteomics analysis

A 500-year-old Incan mummy was found to have a bacterial lung infection at the time of death, according to a new study published in PLOS ONE. The researchers used proteomics to analyze immune system response from degraded samples and found that one mummy had a protein profile similar to those with chronic respiratory infections.

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.

Disabled Pakistani women abandoned, ignored after quake

Research from the University of Alberta found that paraplegic women were left without necessary support, abandoned by their families after the quake. Women with spinal injuries faced a lack of care, including being left behind by husbands who remarried.

NIH scientists identify likely predictors of hepatitis C severity

Researchers have identified genetic and blood serum markers that can predict the rapid progression of hepatitis C disease, allowing for more effective treatment decisions. Patients with high levels of a specific protein called MCP-1 are at risk for severe liver diseases.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Public strongly supports programs helping farmers adapt to climate change

A survey of Michigan residents shows overwhelming support for government programs helping farmers adapt to climate change. The study found that more than 65% of respondents backed financial assistance for farmers, with many linking it to concerns over recent food price increases and long-term food security.

Can a virus fight cancer?

Two Canadian researchers are developing innovative approaches to oncolytic viruses that selectively target and kill cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. They will study the use of specially engineered viruses combined with new drugs to overcome tumor defense mechanisms.

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.

Aesop's Fable unlocks how we think

Researchers compared Eurasian Jays with local school children using three tasks of varying complexity, revealing that children learn cause-and-effect relationships in a different way than birds. The study found that while the birds struggled to understand the mechanism, the children focused on simple cause-effect relationships.

Study links alcohol/energy drink mixes with casual, risky sex

A study from the University at Buffalo's Research Institute on Addictions found a link between consuming caffeinated energy drinks mixed with alcohol and having casual -- often risky -- sex among college-age adults. The study suggests that mixing energy drinks with alcohol can lead to unintentional overdrinking, increasing the risk of ...

After the Canadarm, the Canadeyes for the future Webb

The James Webb Space Telescope's NIRISS and FGS instruments, developed by University of Montreal's Professor René Doyon, will study the universe from a record-breaking distance. These Canadian-made instruments will analyze stars and galaxies dating back to the Big Bang and search for life-supporting planetary systems.

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.

Pioneering study shows drug can purge dormant HIV

Researchers have discovered a new strategy to directly attack and eradicate latent HIV infection using the deacetylase inhibitor vorinostat. The study showed that vorinostat was able to unmask hidden virus in patients receiving treatment for HIV, increasing active HIV levels by an average of 4.5-fold.

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.

Darker wings for monarch butterflies mean better flight

Research published in PLOS ONE found that monarch butterflies with darker orange wings flew significantly longer distances than those with lighter wings. The study suggests an association between pigment level and flight distance, paving the way for further research into butterfly wing color.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Gene therapy holds promise for reversing congenital hearing loss

A new gene therapy approach successfully treats genetic hearing loss in mice by delivering the VGLUT3 gene to inner ear cells. This breakthrough offers a promising potential treatment for individuals born deaf, with improved hearing lasting up to 1.5 years in adult mice.

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.

Forest carbon monitoring breakthrough in Colombia

Researchers used LiDAR and satellite image analysis to create detailed maps of the Colombian Amazon's carbon stores, unlocking new methods for monitoring and conserving the region. The breakthrough supports the UN's REDD+ program and has implications for climate change mitigation in Colombia.

Women have a poorer quality of life after a stroke or mini stroke than men

Research published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing found that women are more affected by strokes and mini strokes than men, particularly in terms of emotional and social aspects. The study highlights the need for equal support and care for female patients after discharge from hospital to address this disparity.

Piglets in mazes provide insights into human cognitive development

Researchers used piglets in mazes to study human cognitive development, finding that environmental insults can affect brain structure and function. The piglet model allows for the testing of learning and memory tasks, providing insights into how stressors impact brain development.

2 Solar System puzzles solved

Researchers modelled comets and asteroid particles to explain their origins and compositions. The study found that these particles could have been processed in the hot inner disk of the Solar System before traveling out to icy comets, shedding light on the puzzle of how comets acquired different rim compositions.

Citizen science helps unlock European genetic heritage

A team of citizen scientists, led by Dr Andy Grierson, analyzed human genome data to identify new clues on the Y chromosome, revealing a detailed family tree for Western European men. This community-led approach has the potential to facilitate rapid progress in understanding historical human migrations and paternal lineages.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Global expansion all about give and take, study finds

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that multinational firms perform better over time, especially when they have a global strategy and coordinate efforts across multiple countries. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 48,000 firms, also found that firm size does not affect success in multinationality.

How the fluid between cells affects tumors

A novel procedure in JoVE enables scientists to study the effects of interstitial fluid flow on tumor cells, promoting a better understanding of tumor growth and metastasis. The technique mimics in vivo conditions, allowing researchers to evaluate potential new therapies.

Women with diabetes more likely to experience sexual dissatisfaction

A UCSF study found that women with diabetes are more likely to report low overall sexual satisfaction compared to non-diabetic women. Insulin-treated diabetic women were at higher risk for lubrication and orgasm complications, while end-organ complications such as heart disease and peripheral neuropathy also impacted sexual function.

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.

Medical follow-up in celiac disease is less than optimal

A recent study found that most celiac disease patients do not receive adequate medical follow-up, which can lead to non-compliance with a gluten-free diet. The study suggests that gastroenterologists need to improve communication with patients to ensure timely follow-up care and improve outcomes in celiac disease.

Basal cell carcinoma risk can be chronic

A new study found that basal cell carcinoma risk can persist even after multiple instances of the disease, with predictors including a history of eczema and early sun exposure. Researchers are exploring preventive medication options to minimize damage.

Scientists explore new class of synthetic vaccines

Researchers at Arizona State University develop first vaccine complex that can be delivered safely and effectively by piggybacking onto self-assembled, three-dimensional DNA nanostructures. The vaccine complexes trigger a robust immune response up to 9-fold higher than traditional methods.

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.

Newfound gene may help bacteria survive in extreme environments

Researchers at MIT have discovered a bacterial gene that enables microbes to thrive in oxygen-depleted conditions, producing lipid biomarkers that may signify dramatic changes in Earth's history. This discovery could provide insights into mass extinctions and climate disturbances.

International regulation curbs illegal trade of caviar

A recent study by the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science found that international protection of sturgeon species has reduced fraudulent labeling of black caviar. The research revealed a nearly 50% decrease in mislabeled products, indicating the effectiveness of trade regulation.

Texas A&M biologists prove ZOLOFT packs potential to fight fungal meningitis

Researchers at Texas A&M University discovered that the antidepressant sertraline hydrochloride (ZOLOFT) exhibits potent mechanisms against Cryptococcus neoformans, the major causative agent of fungal meningitis. The study suggests that ZOLOFT could be repurposed as a treatment option for this deadly infection.

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.

Expanding Medicaid to low-income adults leads to improved health, fewer deaths

A recent Harvard study found that expanding Medicaid coverage to low-income adults leads to significant improvements in health and reduced mortality rates. The study analyzed data from three states with expanded Medicaid programs and found a 6.1% reduction in mortality among those covered, corresponding to 2,840 deaths prevented per year.