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Science News Archive July 2012 - Page 25


Page 25 of 26

Measuring the uncertainties of pandemic influenza

A collaboration between US research centers highlights three disease characteristics that determine whether an outbreak becomes a serious epidemic: pre-symptom transmission, reproductive number, and disease stage length. Simulation models demonstrate that current response plans may underestimate consequences significantly.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Risk Assessment and Management·DateJul 2, 2012

Individual perspectives improve laparoscopy

Researchers at Brown University have developed a new system that allows surgeons to control their own views during laparoscopic surgery, leading to faster and more accurate performance. In a small in vitro trial, surgeons with individual views outperformed those with shared views, completing tasks up to 3 times faster.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateJul 2, 2012

Researchers able to better pinpoint history of droughts through exploration of tree rings

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered an unexpected complexity in the patterns of drought during the Middle Ages. The study uses tree rings and oxygen isotopes to reveal that winters were wetter-than-expected during the Medieval Climate Anomaly, contradicting previous tree ring data.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2012

Why cancer rate increases with age (it's not what you think)

Researchers argue that changing tissue landscape promotes higher cancer rates in the elderly, rather than accumulating oncogenic mutations. Healthy cells in young bodies outcompete cells with cancerous mutations when conditions change.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalOncogene·DateJul 2, 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.

Breaking the skin barrier

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel gene regulation technology that can selectively target disease-causing genes in skin cells. The treatment uses spherical arrangements of nucleic acids to penetrate the skin and deliver therapeutics, offering new hope for life-saving therapies for skin cancers and other skin ...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2012

Single protein promotes resistance to widely used anti-estrogen drugs

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center discovered that glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) is a major determinant of resistance to anti-estrogen therapy. Inhibiting GRP78 may provide a solution for tens of thousands of women who develop resistance to these drugs.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 2, 2012

DNA sequenced for parrot's ability to parrot

Researchers have successfully sequenced the parrot genome using single molecule sequencing, allowing for a better understanding of the genetic mechanisms behind vocal learning. The breakthrough could lead to insights into speech development in humans and the study of cancer and brain functions.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 2, 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.

Medicare coverage gap associated with reductions in antidepressant use in study

A study found that Medicare beneficiaries with depression who faced a coverage gap in their Part D plan were more likely to discontinue their antidepressants. The study, which analyzed data from over 65,000 patients, also found similar reductions in the use of other essential medications, including heart failure drugs and antidiabetics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJul 2, 2012

Exploring one of climate's 'known unknowns'

Research reveals faster water condensation on less viscous aerosol particles, affecting cloud albedo and lifetime. The study's findings provide insight into the climate's 'known unknowns', highlighting the importance of understanding condensation rates.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2012

New way to grow, isolate cancer cells may add weapon against disease

Researchers develop a new method to isolate and grow cancer cells, which can aid in understanding how cancer spreads and ultimately fighting it. The soft fibrin substrate promotes the growth of tumorigenic cells, making them more efficient at causing tumors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 2, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cell biology -- new insights into the life of microtubules

A new theoretical model shows that the length of microtubules is regulated by the attachment of motor proteins, which grow towards the plus-end and shorten the filament. This interplay between growth and shrinkage maintains a precisely regulated microtubule length essential for various intracellular tasks.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 2, 2012

Researchers and communities at risk join forces in volcano study

A £3 million project will focus on six volcanoes in Latin America and the Caribbean, integrating community experience with scientific approaches to reduce risk. The study aims to develop novel risk analyses and models to mitigate the impact of volcanic activity on people and assets.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·DateJul 2, 2012

Study: Botulinum toxin a shot in the arm for preventing MS tremor

A study published in Neurology found that botulinum toxin injections significantly improved tremor severity and writing/drawing abilities in people with multiple sclerosis. The treatment also showed promise in reducing muscle weakness after treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 2, 2012

A world free of 1 of the most virulent animal diseases?

The new FMD vaccine is a molecular vaccine that does not use live FMD virus, allowing for differentiation between vaccinated and infected animals. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the economic impact of FMD outbreaks in the US, with potential cost savings estimated to exceed $50 billion.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateJul 2, 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.

Child abuse and foster care admissions increase when parents use methamphetamines

A Baylor University study found a strong causal link between methamphetamine use by parents and an increase in child maltreatment and foster care placements. The research used data from the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System to analyze the effect of methamphetamine production restrictions on foster care admissions.

SourceBaylor University·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateJul 2, 2012

Researchers identify new brain receptor for fantasy

A team of researchers has identified the natural receptor in the brain where GHB binds, shedding light on its physiological function and potential risks. This discovery opens up new research opportunities, including the development of targeted pharmaceuticals with reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2012

Analysis of KRYSTEXXA phase III data demonstrates improved health-related quality of life and physical function in refractory chronic gout patients

A new study published in the Journal of Rheumatology shows that KRYSTEXXA significantly improves pain, physical function, and health-related quality of life in adult patients with refractory chronic gout. The treatment resulted in clinically meaningful improvements in these areas compared to placebo.

SourceBurns McClellan·JournalThe Journal of Rheumatology·DateJul 2, 2012

Despite hardships, black men in urban communities are resilient, MU researcher says

A University of Missouri researcher studied the efforts of low-income Black men living in urban areas to negotiate social environments and found that many have developed five primary forms of resilience to overcome adversity. The study suggests that these resilience strategies can be taught and nurtured, and community members and gover...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalQualitative Health Research·DateJul 2, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers report success in treating autism spectrum disorder

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have successfully treated a severe form of autism spectrum disorder called creatine transporter deficiency (CTD) using a creatine analogue called CincY. The treatment reversed mental retardation-like symptoms in mice and improved cognitive abilities, including recognition and spatial learning.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 2, 2012

Multiple proxy datasets can clarify ancient climate regimes

Researchers used tree ring data from the US Pacific Northwest and oxygen isotope analysis of lake sediments to clarify ancient climate regimes. The study suggests that drought patterns in the American West may have varied across different regions, with some areas experiencing wetter winters than expected.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 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.

Genes may play role in educational achievement, study finds

Researchers have found genetic markers that may influence educational achievement, including genes involved in attention regulation and motivation. The study identified three genes – DAT1, DRD2, and DRD4 – as possible markers for academic success.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJul 2, 2012

Uncontrollable anger prevalent among US youth

A new study finds nearly two-thirds of US adolescents have experienced severe anger attacks, with 1 in 12 meeting criteria for IED. The disorder is under-treated, with only 6.5% receiving professional help.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJul 2, 2012

Do the world's smallest flies decapitate tiny ants?

A new species of phorid fly has been discovered, belonging to a family known for 'decapitating' ants. The tiny fly, Euryplatea nanaknihali, is 15 times smaller than a house fly and feeds on the heads of small ant species.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·DateJul 2, 2012

Fish learn to cope in a high CO2 world

Researchers found that anemone fish babies can adjust to ocean acidification if their parents are also raised in acidic water. This discovery suggests some species may be more resilient than previously thought, which could help mitigate the impact of CO2 emission reduction.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 2, 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.

ASTRO, SAMFund join to promote cancer survivorship

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has partnered with the Surviving And Moving Forward: The SAMFund for Young Adult Survivors of Cancer to promote cancer survivorship. Through the Survivor Circle exhibit, ASTRO is providing financial assistance and resources to young adult survivors.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateJul 2, 2012

'Self-distancing' can help people calm aggressive reactions, study finds

Researchers found that adopting a self-distanced perspective can reduce angry feelings and aggressive thoughts in provoked individuals. By viewing the situation from a distant point, people can better regulate their emotions and respond less aggressively.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJul 2, 2012

Mount Sinai finds common factors in autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital found a link between increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and family history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. The study suggests shared etiologic risk factors among these disorders, potentially leading to more similar understanding and treatment approaches.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJul 2, 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.

UC Santa Barbara geographer charts the ‘next-generation digital Earth'

The next generation of Digital Earth seeks to address issues with current digital globes by incorporating local perspectives, temporal information, and open-source partnerships. This shift aims to improve accuracy and inclusivity while maintaining scientific standards.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2012

BESC researchers tap into genetic reservoir of heat-loving bacteria

A team of researchers has identified a group of proteins in heat-loving bacteria that enable them to break down cellulose, a key challenge in producing cost-effective biofuels. By analyzing the genomes and proteomics of these bacteria, the scientists pinpointed unique genes responsible for their ability to degrade cellulose.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateJul 2, 2012

Physical activity needed in order to reap benefits of dietary restriction

A study at the Buck Institute found that fruit flies on dietary restriction need physical activity to reap benefits, whereas humans using caloric restriction may also need sufficient calorie intake. The research suggests a potential target for mimicking diet-restricted lifespan benefits through drug development.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 2, 2012

Researchers discover rare leukemia-causing protein

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati discovered a new gene target for leukemia therapy by inhibiting the protein Vav3, which controls cell signaling. This finding could lead to cellular targets for patients with BCR-ABL lymphoid leukemia, a type of leukemia with poor treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBlood·DateJul 2, 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.

Paints and coatings containing bactericidal agent nanoparticles combat marine fouling

Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz discovered that vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles can inhibit the growth of barnacles, bacteria, and algae on surfaces in contact with water. This could lead to the development of new protective coatings that are less damaging to the environment than current ship coatings.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 2, 2012

Researchers find abuse during childhood may contribute to obesity in adulthood

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine found a strong association between childhood abuse and obesity in adulthood. The study analyzed data from over 33,000 African-American women and estimated that those who experienced the highest level of physical and sexual abuse were 30% more likely to be obese.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 2, 2012

Imaging agents predict breast cancer response to endocrine therapy

A study published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that imaging progesterone receptor (PR) status can identify responders and nonresponders to endocrine therapy in early stages. PR imaging with F-18-FFNP PET may help distinguish between patients who will benefit from hormone-based therapies.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJul 2, 2012

Melon genome obtained

The melon genome consists of 450 million base pairs and 27,427 genes, with seven varieties sequenced. Key findings include genes related to disease resistance and the ripening process, offering potential for improving crop yields and quality.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 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.

Higher levels of public reimbursement positively influence national birth rates and reduce unmet needs in subfertile populations

A study found that higher public reimbursement for fertility treatment increases access to care, reducing unmet needs in subfertile populations. Countries with more generous funding policies have a higher volume of ART cycles performed and lower rates of multiple births.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJul 2, 2012

Study suggests antipsychotic drugs during pregnancy linked to increased risk of gestational diabetes

A Swedish study suggests that antipsychotic drugs during pregnancy are associated with a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. Women treated with these medications had a fourfold higher risk of gestational diabetes compared to those not taking any medication, according to the study published in Archives of General Psychiatry.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJul 2, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Generating dopamine via cell therapy for Parkinson's disease

Embryonic stem cells can be used to replace dopamine-producing cells in Parkinson's disease patients with high efficiency. Researchers have identified specific genes associated with each stage of neuronal differentiation, allowing for more precise cell purification strategies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 2, 2012

Study suggests teen sexting prevalent, may be linked to sexual behaviors

A study of Texas high school students found that over 1 in 4 adolescents have sent nude pictures through electronic means. The prevalence of teen sexting is linked to their sexual behavior, with those who sexted more likely to have begun dating and had sex than their peers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJul 2, 2012

Childless women with fertility problems at higher risk of hospitalization for psychiatric disorders

A large Danish cohort study reveals that childless women who undergo fertility evaluations have a higher risk of hospitalizations for psychiatric disorders, particularly anxiety and depression. The study found significant correlations between childlessness and increased rates of substance abuse, schizophrenia, and eating disorders.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJul 2, 2012
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.

Charting autism's neural circuitry

Researchers found that deleting a single gene in the cerebellum of mice caused autistic-like behavior, but administering an immunosuppressant drug prevented these symptoms. The study suggests a molecular component for autism development and may lead to better understanding of the condition.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2012

Rensselaer scientists unlock some key secrets of photosynthesis

Researchers studied the binding and activation of water molecules in the catalytic site of photosystem II, a key step in converting sunlight into chemical energy. The study provides new insights into the ultra-efficient energy conversion process in nature and could inform the development of more efficient solar-energy technologies.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJul 2, 2012

TRMM sees post-season South Pacific Tropical Cyclone 21P

Tropical Depression 21P developed in the South Pacific Ocean between Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The TRMM Satellite captured rainfall data and cloud heights, revealing a small but organized tropical cyclone with intense convective storms dropping heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 2, 2012

Nearly 30 percent of teens send nude pictures despite being 'bothered' by requests

A study found that nearly 30 percent of teens send nude pictures via email or text, and this behavior is indicative of their overall sexual activity. Teen girls who engage in sexting are more likely to participate in risky behaviors, including multiple partners and substance use before sex.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJul 2, 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.

Naked mole rat may hold the secret to long life

A study published in Aging Cell found that naked mole rats have high levels of the neuroprotective protein NRG-1, which is linked to their unusually long lifespan. The research suggests that this protein may be a key factor in maintaining brain health and preventing age-related decline.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAging Cell·DateJul 2, 2012