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Science News Archive June 2012 - Page 12


Page 12 of 29

The role of dopamine in sleep regulation

Researchers discovered that dopamine inhibits melatonin production by forming 'heteromers' with norepinephrine receptors, regulating the body's circadian rhythm. This discovery could lead to new treatments for circadian rhythm disturbances and sleep disorders affecting 40% of the world's population.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 19, 2012

In nanotube growth, errors are not an option

The study found that iron is the best and quickest catalyst to heal topological defects in nanotubes, which are critical for advanced materials. The researchers determined that healing occurs in a small zone near the catalyst and can happen in a fraction of a millisecond.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 19, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Global collaboration aims to improve mother and newborn health

A global collaboration led by the University of York is examining key areas of reproductive, maternal and newborn care within midwifery services. The project will culminate in a special series on midwifery in The Lancet, providing evidence to guide national decision-making and improve midwifery services.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 19, 2012

NASA sees some heavy rainfall in tropical storm talim

Tropical Storm Talim formed in the South China Sea on June 18, with NASA's TRMM satellite capturing moderate to heavy rainfall data. The storm is currently moving northeastward at 11 knots and is expected to weaken as it passes through the Strait of Taiwan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 19, 2012

Paddle vs. propeller: Which competitive swimming stroke is superior?

A Johns Hopkins University research team found that the deep catch stroke, resembling a paddle, is more efficient and effective than the sculling stroke. The study used high-precision laser scans and computer simulations to analyze fluid dynamics around the arm and forces acting on the limb.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJournal of Biomechanical Engineering·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.

A new indicator for breast cancer relapse identified

Researchers have discovered a new indicator for breast cancer relapse, directly associated with the activation of NF-kB signaling in tumour cells. The absence of the 14-3-3 protein sigma is not itself a prognosis factor, but its lack enables chronic NF-kB activity linked to tumour progression.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2012

'Color blind' policies could make diversity harder to achieve

A recent study published in Current Directions in Psychological Science found that color-blind policies can backfire, leading to increased racial bias and tension. The authors propose a multicultural approach as an alternative, which has been shown to improve understanding and spotting of discrimination., Minority applicants perceive d...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJun 19, 2012

Detector of DNA damage: Structure of a repair factor revealed

Researchers have elucidated the structure of a key protein involved in DNA double-strand break repair. The MRN complex plays a crucial role in cell survival and function, with mutations linked to distinct syndromes and predispositions to cancer, radiation sensitivity, and neurodegeneration.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·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.

Long-term cancer survivors struggle to keep regular work hours

A study by Steffen Torp and colleagues found that long-term cancer survivors take significantly more sick leave than their non-cancer counterparts. Socio-demographic factors, such as education level and family status, were key predictors of sick leave, rather than the type or severity of cancer.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·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.

Trouble on the horizon for GM crops?

A study by researchers at the University of Arizona found that pest populations are evolving resistance to genetically modified cotton plants, which produce toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis. The discovery highlights the need for closer monitoring and countering of pest resistance to biotech crops.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2012

NIH study finds HIV-positive young men at risk of low bone mass

A recent NIH study found that HIV-positive young men are more likely to experience low bone mass than their peers. Regular monitoring, exercise, and sufficient vitamin D intake can help prevent future fracture risk. The study's findings highlight the importance of addressing bone health in this vulnerable population.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJun 19, 2012

Giving makes young children happy, UBC study suggests

Young children are happier when giving treats to others than receiving them, according to a new UBC study. Toddlers under two years old display greater happiness when sharing their own treats with a puppet compared to receiving identical or provided treats.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2012

Schooling fish: Wild zebrafish assess risk through social learning

Wild zebrafish use social learning to assess risk by observing other individuals' behavior and adjusting their own. They become more bold after interacting with bolder domesticated fish but do not change their behavior when encountering shy ones.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJun 19, 2012

Food industry needs more scrutiny from the public health community

A new series by PLOS Medicine examines the role of the multinational food industry in shaping global health policies. Guest editors Marion Nestle and David Stuckler argue that public health professionals must recognize Big Food's influence and take action to expose and regulate its interests.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 19, 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.

UTHealth study addresses barriers to physical activity counseling

A recent UTHealth study found that lack of time and training are among the top barriers to effective physical activity counseling in primary care. The review highlights the need for evidence-based counseling methods and strategies to promote patient behavior change.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJun 19, 2012

Blogging relieves stress on new mothers

Research found that blogging positively impacts new mothers' well-being by increasing feelings of social support, marital satisfaction, and reducing parenting stress. Blogging provides an outlet for stay-at-home moms to connect with family and friends, showcasing their hobbies and accomplishments.

SourcePenn State·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateJun 19, 2012

Latest edition of the 'Particle Physics Bible' now online

The Particle Data Group's 2012 edition is a comprehensive review of high-energy physics, covering results from the Large Hadron Collider and new data on neutrino oscillation. The online version includes an interactive web application for browsing the database and print-quality displays of mathematical expressions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJun 19, 2012

Inhibitors of shuttle molecule show promise in acute leukemia

A novel family of experimental agents targeting the transport protein CRM1 may offer a new treatment for acute leukemia. The agents, called KPT-SINEs, have been shown to inhibit leukemia-cell proliferation, arrest cell division, and induce cell death and differentiation in animal models.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalBlood·DateJun 19, 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.

Penn study describes molecular machinery that pulls apart protein clumps

A study published in PLoS Biology describes a way to break apart beneficial amyloid fibers that can play protective roles in the brain. Human cells have the necessary machinery to clear these fibers, which could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 19, 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.

UK cyclists take different paths

A recent study found that UK cities exhibit striking differences in cycling cultures, from traditional modes of transport to edgy subcultures. In contrast, cyclists in certain locations face barriers such as bike theft and worrying about what to wear on their bikes.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJun 19, 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.

Soda companies' PR campaigns are bad for health

Experts say soda companies' corporate social responsibility campaigns distract from the health risks of sugary beverages and shift blame to consumers. The campaigns target young people and aim to increase sales, diverting attention from the industry's contribution to rising obesity rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 19, 2012

Study: Willingness to be screened for dementia varies by age but not by sex, race or income

A recent study found that almost 90% of older adults aged 65-96 were willing to undergo dementia screening, with refusal rates higher among those between 70-79 years old. The study's results suggest that age is the primary factor affecting willingness, with no significant impact from sex, race, or income level.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 19, 2012

Where to put nuclear waste?

Researchers found affluent men more likely to accept nuclear waste storage sites than women or economically disadvantaged individuals. The team analyzed local opinions on a Finnish nuclear waste repository and identified a 'white male effect,' highlighting the need for a more holistic approach to community involvement.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Technology and Management·DateJun 19, 2012

NASA satellites see Tropical Storm Guchol affecting Japan

Tropical Storm Guchol weakened as it approached Japan, passing over the mainland on June 19, 2012. Radar and infrared imagery captured by NASA's TRMM and Aqua satellites showed a weakening typhoon with maximum sustained winds near 55 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 19, 2012

Noisy environments make young songbirds shuffle their tunes

A new study reveals that baby songbirds learn and repeat the clearest versions of songs they hear, influenced by noise from nature and humans. This cultural selection process can lead to lasting changes in a species' top tunes, highlighting the impact of anthropogenic factors on bird communication.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiology Letters·DateJun 19, 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.

Infants can't distinguish between large and small groups

Research found that infants consistently choose larger sets over smaller ones when both are above four, but struggle with comparisons involving one large and one small item. The study's findings could lead to improvements in early education programs by understanding how infants develop number representation skills.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJun 19, 2012

Product selection: Many consumers just want better features

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research reveals that consumers with little product knowledge prioritize easy-to-compare standard features. Companies should adapt their strategies to cater to both expert and novice consumers, focusing on unique attributes for experts and improving existing features for novices.

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

Family first – caring within UK Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities

A study by Brunel University found that only a few percent of older people in these communities receive formal care from the wider community or government. Women, particularly daughters and wives, play a crucial role in caregiving, but many face isolation and loneliness. The researchers emphasize the importance of family support for de...

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJun 18, 2012

Helping superconductors turn up the heat

Researchers at the University of Miami introduced a breakthrough theory that explains high-temperature superconductivity. The team found that specific quantum effects can generate superpositions of individual states, providing an effective glue to repair the system and allow superconducting behavior to emerge.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalEPL (Europhysics Letters)·DateJun 18, 2012

Outcomes for children after brain injury difficult to predict and highly variable

Brain injury in children is a complex and unpredictable condition, with no single best approach to predicting outcomes. Advanced imaging tests are often used in adults but have not been studied for use in children. Prevention of injury and tailored approaches are key to improving outcomes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 18, 2012

Survey finds surgical interns concerned about training duty-hour restrictions

Surgical interns believe new duty-hour restrictions will decrease continuity with patients, coordination of care, and time spent operating, as well as reduce their acquisition of medical knowledge and development of surgical skills. However, they also report that the regulations will increase quality and safety of patient care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJun 18, 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.

BaBar data hint at cracks in the Standard Model

Recent BaBar experiment data suggest a potential flaw in the Standard Model, with a particular type of particle decay happening more often than predicted. The results are intriguing but require replication and further investigation to confirm or rule out an actual discovery.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateJun 18, 2012

Researchers search for viruses to save honeybees

Researchers at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas have identified three viruses that target the bacteria causing American Foulbrood Disease in honeybees. The discovery offers hope for a new treatment to replace current methods that involve burning infected hives and could help save millions of bees.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 18, 2012

New 'OPEC' offers sustainable smell of sweet success

Researchers have developed a sustainable method to convert orange peels into valuable chemicals and materials, including fragrances, water purification, and biofuels. This innovation has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a zero-waste biorefinery.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateJun 18, 2012

Cheaper drug could lead to serious eye issues

A recent Queen's University study found that the cheaper drug for treating wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) has a higher risk of causing eye inflammation and vision loss. The research indicates that patients receiving the cheaper drug had a 12 times higher risk of serious eye issues, emphasizing the need for caution in its use.

SourceQueen's University·JournalCanadian Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJun 18, 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.

New method generates cardiac muscle patches from stem cells

Researchers at Michigan Medicine developed a new method to generate cardiac muscle patches from stem cells, which can mimic the heart's crucial squeezing action. The engineered cells displayed activity similar to most people's resting heart rate and could potentially be used to help 2.5 million people with arrhythmia.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Research·DateJun 18, 2012

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 19, 2012, online issue

A recent study found that Alzheimer's patients who undergo hospitalization are at risk for complications such as delirium, loss of independence, and death. Researchers also highlighted the risks associated with Flavocoxid, a medical food used to treat osteoarthritis, which can cause liver injury in some patients. Additionally, screenin...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 18, 2012

Yankee fans keep enemy Red Sox closer, NYU study shows

Researchers found that Yankees fans estimated Fenway Park as closer to Yankee Stadium than Camden Yards, while non-Yankee fans accurately perceived the actual distance. This suggests that social categorization and identity threat play a role in shaping our representations of physical distances.

SourceNew York University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 18, 2012

Anti-cocaine vaccine described in Human Gene Therapy Journal

Researchers developed a single-dose vaccine that produces an antibody capable of binding to cocaine, preventing its entry into the brain. The vaccinated mice showed no effects from intravenous cocaine exposure, highlighting a potential novel approach to treating cocaine addiction.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJun 18, 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.