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Science News Archive June 2012 - Page 11


Page 11 of 29

Megapixel camera? Try gigapixel

Researchers at Duke University and the University of Arizona developed a gigapixel camera that captures unprecedented detail by synchronizing 98 tiny cameras. The camera's resolution is five times better than 20/20 human vision over a 120-degree horizontal field, with potential applications in surveillance, inspection, and photography.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateJun 20, 2012

Respect matters more than money for happiness in life

Research suggests that sociometric status, rather than socioeconomic status, predicts social well-being. Studies found that students with high standing in their local ladder reported higher levels of social acceptance and power, leading to increased happiness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 20, 2012

Drug combo much better than AZT alone at preventing mother-to-infant HIV transmission

A new UCLA-led study shows that a two- or three-drug combination given to infants within 48 hours of birth can reduce the risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission by about half compared to AZT alone. The study found that this combination significantly reduced HIV transmission, while also being less toxic to the infants.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 20, 2012

How active is your child really?

Children aged 8-10 years spent an average of just 4% of their day engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity, falling short of the daily recommended amount. This early disparity highlights the need for interventions to encourage primary school children to become more physically active.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 20, 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.

Berkeley Lab wins 4 2012 R&D 100 awards

Berkeley Lab's Laser Ablation Molecular Isotopic Spectrometry (LAMIS) technology enables remote chemical analysis on other planets, while the Compact Variable Collimator (CVC) improves X-ray beam shaping for protein crystallography. The Multinozzle Emitter Array (MEA) accelerates biomedical research by analyzing biomolecules in microfl...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJun 20, 2012

Taming light with graphene

Scientists visualize the trapping and confinement of light on graphene, making it a promising candidate for optical information processing. Graphene plasmons can be used to electrically control light, enabling new optical switches and applications in medicine, bio-detection, solar cells, and quantum information processing.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature·DateJun 20, 2012
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.

All things big and small: The brain's discerning taste for size

Researchers at MIT CSAIL discovered brain organizes objects based on size, with distinct regions for big and small objects. This finding has major implications for fields like robotics and could lead to better understanding of brain organization and mapping information.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·JournalNeuron·DateJun 20, 2012

Euclid jumps final hurdle

The European Space Agency has adopted the largest astronomy collaboration to build the Euclid satellite, which will study the dark universe with great precision. The mission will trace the distribution and evolution of dark matter and dark energy throughout the Universe.

SourceUniversity College London·DateJun 20, 2012

Stanford study shows opiates' side effects rooted in patients' genetics

A new Stanford University School of Medicine study has found that genetics significantly impact the severity of opiate side effects, such as nausea and respiratory depression. The research also suggests that genetic variations can influence an individual's risk of addiction to these powerful painkillers.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalAnesthesiology·DateJun 20, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Structure of RNAi complex now crystal clear

Researchers have defined and analyzed the crystal structure of a yeast Argonaute protein bound to RNA, shedding light on the RNA interference pathway that silences gene expression. The study reveals a four-component active site, resolving a longstanding mystery in the field.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalNature·DateJun 20, 2012

1 in 8 heart patients suffer post-traumatic stress disorder

A meta-analysis of 24 studies found that 12% of heart patients develop clinically significant PTSD symptoms, doubling their risk for future cardiac events and death. The study suggests that underdiagnosis may be even more pronounced in cardiac practices than in other types of medical practices.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 20, 2012

What motivates generosity? Researchers study Muslims and Catholics

A study led by Arizona State University's Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict investigated what drives generosity among Muslims and Catholics. The researchers found that both groups value community and connecting with people in need, as well as a sense of duty to their faith. They also discovered commonalities in the ways rel...

SourceArizona State University·DateJun 20, 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.

Tin-100, a doubly magic nucleus

Physicists at TUM successfully created and analyzed tin-100, a doubly magic nucleus with the fastest beta decay rate. The experiment confirmed predictions made by theoretical physicists and aims to improve understanding of heavy element formation during compact star explosions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJun 20, 2012

2 NASA visualizations selected for computers graphics showcase

Two NASA visualizations have been selected for the SIGGRAPH Computer Animation Festival: a lunar surface tour and an animation illustrating how the sun drives Earth's ocean currents. The festival highlights the best in computer graphics and technical research, with the chosen animations meeting strict guidelines.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 19, 2012

Should consumers trust their feelings as information?

Researchers found that high trust in feelings amplifies emotionally driven responses, even when faced with compelling information favoring the opposite choice. The study suggests that relying on feelings as information can lead to irrational decisions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 19, 2012
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.

Mother goats do not forget their kids

A study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that mother goats can recognize their kids' voices even after they've been separated by weaning. The researchers recorded kid calls at five weeks old and played them back to mothers 12-18 months later, revealing that the memory remains.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateJun 19, 2012

UK Space Agency makes stellar investment in mission to the Sun

The UK Space Agency has invested £11.5M in the Solar Orbiter mission, which will discover how the Sun creates and controls the heliosphere by flying closer than ever before to the Sun. The mission will study the Sun's magnetic field and solar activity, including coronal mass ejections that can affect Earth.

SourceUK Space Agency·DateJun 19, 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.

Global Energy Assessment identifies pathways to a sustainable energy future

The Global Energy Assessment outlines 41 alternative sustainable energy pathways that offer viable, cost-effective choices for policy makers. The study finds that a rapid transformation to clean energy technologies is economically viable and can deliver clean energy to 1.4 billion people without increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·DateJun 19, 2012

Most quasars live on snacks, not large meals

New study finds that most massive black-hole growth in the early universe was fueled by small, long-term events rather than dramatic short-term major mergers. Quasars thrive in normal-looking spiral galaxies, triggered by black holes snacking on gas or small satellite galaxies.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 19, 2012

Breaking your budget? Why consumers overspend on exceptional purchases

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers underestimate how often they make 'exceptional' purchases, leading to overspending. The authors suggest that understanding these differences can help consumers make wiser budgeting decisions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 19, 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.

Eat less meat and farm efficiently to tackle climate change

Research from the University of Exeter suggests that adopting a diet with lower meat consumption could significantly reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. The study found that increasing agricultural efficiency, especially in livestock production, could help achieve this goal by making better use of resources and reducing waste.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJun 19, 2012

New review outlines screening strategies for osteoporosis in young adults

The International Osteoporosis Foundation provides guidance on screening strategies for osteoporosis in young adults, emphasizing the need for caution in diagnosis and treatment. The review highlights the importance of distinguishing between low bone mass and skeletal fragility in this age group.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateJun 19, 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.

Molecular machinery that pulls protein clumps apart

Researchers have identified a mechanism by which small heat shock proteins collaborate with other molecular chaperones to disassemble amyloid fibers. This activity could lead to the development of therapeutic applications for neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 19, 2012

Parents say that healthy eating is challenging for youth who play sports

A new study highlights how parents, coaches, and youth sport organizations can promote healthful eating for youth athletes. Parents reported frequent visits to fast-food restaurants and struggled to determine which food options were healthy, despite considering youth sports an unhealthy environment.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 19, 2012

Nerve growth factors elevated in pancreatic cancer model

A new study has identified elevated levels of four neurotrophic factors in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer, which could be responsible for the development of pain in patients. These findings suggest that tumor-nerve interactions play a significant role in cancer progression and pain.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateJun 19, 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 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.

Coronary rehabilitation programs in Europe are underused

A new survey found that only 36.5% of coronary heart disease patients in Europe participate in cardiac rehabilitation, despite the American Heart Association's recommendation. The study suggests that smoking, older age, and lower educational attainment are associated with lower attendance rates.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJun 19, 2012

From pomegranate peel to nanoparticles

Researchers have developed a method to produce silver nanoparticles using pomegranate peel as a reducing agent, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and industrial solvents. The process produces nanoparticles with a diameter of 5 nanometers and has potential applications in various fields.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Nanoparticles·DateJun 19, 2012

Adaptable decision making in the brain

A team of researchers has discovered that a part of the brain, known as the frontopolar cortex, plays a critical role in making short-term predictions about what will happen next. This region helps individuals make decisions in rapidly changing environments by learning from past experiences and anticipating future events.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·DateJun 19, 2012

Biomarker panel to screen for pancreatic cancer may be possible

A new study proposes a highly accurate blood-based screen for pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which could lead to earlier detection and improved survival rates. Researchers identified 40 biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity, offering hope for developing an effective panel.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateJun 19, 2012
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.

Child welfare investigation predicts mental health problems in young children

A study of 1117 children aged 12-36 months found that many were investigated for maltreatment and had mental health problems, but only a small percentage received treatment. The findings highlight the need for early intervention and services for young children in child welfare.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 19, 2012

Study: No-fat, low-fat dressings don't get most nutrients out of salads

A Purdue University study found that monounsaturated fat-rich dressings promote equivalent carotenoid absorption at low and high levels of fat. In contrast, saturated fat dressings required higher amounts of fat for the same benefit, while polyunsaturated fat dressings were highly dependent on dose.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateJun 19, 2012
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.

Repelling the rays: New American Chemical Society video on sunscreens

A new ACS video series provides an overview of the chemistry behind sunscreens, explaining how they protect against UV rays. The video also offers pointers on shopping for effective sunscreen products, highlighting the importance of SPF numbers in choosing the right product.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 19, 2012

Population displacement during disasters predicted using mobile data

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet used mobile data to predict population movements after a disaster, improving aid delivery accuracy. By analyzing patterns in anonymous user locations before and after the 2010 Haiti earthquake, they were able to accurately forecast people's whereabouts with 85% probability.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2012

Fishing for answers to autism puzzle

Researchers at MIT used zebrafish to study genes associated with autism, finding that nearly all produced brain abnormalities when deleted. The study identified two key genes, kif22 and aldolase a, which may contribute to the development of neurological disorders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateJun 19, 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.

Retail therapy: Shopping to cope with future challenges

A new study reveals that consumers shop proactively to protect themselves against potential challenges, yet reactively after experiencing stress. They tend to choose products specifically associated with bolstering or guarding the self under threat.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 19, 2012

Does night work put women's health at risk?

A major population study found that women who worked nights had a 30% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who never worked nights. The study also suggested that women who worked at night prior to a first pregnancy may be more vulnerable to the increased risk.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateJun 19, 2012