Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive May 2012


Page 2 of 31

X-ray laser probes biomolecules to individual atoms

Scientists have successfully imaged biomolecules at individual atom level using X-ray lasers, enabling new avenues for biological research. The technique, known as serial femtosecond crystallography, has been used to study a small protein called lysozyme and holds promise for understanding complex biological systems.

UK children need more volunteer male befrienders

Research finds that UK boys would prefer a male befriender due to concerns about being discouraged from activities they enjoy with female friends. Girls also benefit from male companionship, particularly those from lone mother families, but are rarely matched with men due to the shortage of volunteer male befrienders.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Methane on Mars is not an indication for life

Researchers find methane source: intense UV radiation from meteorites releases methane from organic materials. Temperature affects methane production, with warmer regions having higher concentrations.

Walking again after spinal cord injury

Researchers at EPFL successfully rehabilitated rats with spinal cord injuries using a combination of robotic harnesses and electrical-chemical stimulation. The study, published in Science, reveals that the dormant spinal column can be awakened to restore voluntary movement, suggesting new methods for treating paralysis.

Is there a 'healthy' obesity gene?

A recent study found that a specific gene linked to fat tissue inflammation may protect against diet-induced obesity-related health problems. The researchers discovered that overexpressing this gene increased fat deposition while suppressing inflammatory responses and improving insulin sensitivity in genetically modified mice.

Sex: It's a good thing

Researchers found that plant species reproducing sexually have stronger disease resistance due to increased adaptive evolution of the chitinase gene. This supports the theory that sex provides a genetic advantage in adapting to environmental changes.

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.

Health benefits of vitamin D dependent on type taken

A new study funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council found that vitamin D3 supplements are more effective in raising vitamin D levels in humans than vitamin D2. The research, which analyzed data from over 1,000 people, suggests that vitamin D3 may be better for overall health.

Nanotechnology breakthrough could dramatically improve medical tests

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new nanotechnology that amplifies fluorescent signals in biological tests, allowing for the detection of biomarkers at lower concentrations. This breakthrough could lead to improved early detection of diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's, enabling more effective treatment.

UNH to analyze 'bellwether' solar event data from European satellite

The University of New Hampshire is poised to analyze a unique dataset from the PAMELA European satellite, which recorded a moderate solar flare and produced a ground-level enhancement (GLE). This rare event has puzzled scientists, but the PAMELA data will provide fresh insights into the evolution of high-energy particles.

Geoengineering: A whiter sky

Researchers found that blocking 2% of the sun's light would make the sky three-to-five times brighter and whiter, while increasing global photosynthetic activity could pull more carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. However, this method may also reduce the effectiveness of solar power.

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.

Baby wipes as safe as using water, study finds

A University of Manchester study found Johnson's Baby Extra Sensitive Wipes equivalent to water in hydrating newborn skin, challenging current NICE guidelines. The trial involved 280 babies and showed no significant differences in hydration or secondary outcomes, except for a slight increase in napkin dermatitis.

Physics to tackle how food is cooked in future

A growing population faces challenges of feeding itself through cleaner and more efficient methods. Innovations in flameless cooking, such as the Oorja stove, offer promising solutions. Researchers are exploring new technologies to reduce costs and increase accessibility, aiming to generate 100W of electrical power from confined gas.

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.

Protein pathways provide clues in leukemia research

Researchers identified patterns in protein expression and found nearly 700 protein pairs implicated in networks of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The goal is to tailor therapy by targeting specific protein signaling pathways, which may lead to improved treatment outcomes.

Building molecular 'cages' to fight disease

Researchers have designed specialized proteins that assemble to form tiny molecular cages, which may be used for drug delivery or as artificial vaccines. The cages are hundreds of times smaller than a single cell and can be decorated with virus-identifying proteins to stimulate an immune response.

Do low-carb diets damage the kidneys?

A low-carbohydrate high-protein diet has been found to be safe for healthy obese patients' kidney function and fluid balance, unlike a low-fat diet. However, additional studies are needed to evaluate its effects in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease or other health conditions.

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.

Memory training unlikely to help in treating ADHD, boosting IQ

A meta-analysis of 23 peer-reviewed studies found that working memory training programs have no impact on general cognitive performance or verbal skills. The study suggests that training may help with short-term memory related tasks but has limited effect on individuals with ADHD or other issues.

Singing in the rain: Technology improves monitoring of bird sounds

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed an AI-powered system to monitor bird sounds, identifying species and changes in habitat loss or climate change. The technology uses a multi-instance machine learning approach, allowing for efficient ecological monitoring, and can be applied to other forest noises and animal species.

Mystery of monarch migration takes new turn

An Emory University analysis suggests environmental factors trigger the monarchs' choice of winter homes, rather than genetic differences. The researchers found extensive gene flow between eastern and western monarchs, challenging the prevailing theory of distinct populations.

New type of biosensor is fast, super-sensitive

A new type of biosensor, known as a biochemiresistor, has been developed by a UNSW-led team to detect tiny traces of contaminants in liquids in just 40 minutes. The sensor can detect one-billionth of a gram of the veterinary antibiotic enrofloxacin in milk with high sensitivity and speed.

Grazing snails rule the waves

A major new study found that small marine snails have a profound impact on the marine ecosystem, removing almost 70% of plant material from the sea floor. The research, led by Associate Professor Alistair Poore, reveals that snails are a key driver of herbivory in marine habitats.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Rewriting DNA to understand what it says

The new study proposes a way to effectively introduce carefully planned DNA segments into genomes of living cells and test the effects. The technology enables simultaneous introduction of tens of thousands of DNA regions into tens of thousands of living cells, allowing for precise measurement of results within a single experiment.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Liberals vs. conservatives: How politics affects charitable giving

A new study found that liberals and conservatives tend to donate more to charities aligned with their respective moral foundations. Republicans are more likely to donate when a charity supports traditional values and loyalty, while Democrats are more inclined to donate when the emphasis is on equality and protection from harm.

'Intelligent medicine' erases side effects

Scientists at Aarhus University have developed a new technology that conjugates glucocorticoid steroids to antibodies binding to macrophage receptors, reducing side effects and increasing potency. This intelligent medicine shows promise for treating various inflammatory diseases, including autoimmune disorders.

Researchers determine structure of 'batteries' of the biological clock

Scientists have determined the three-dimensional structure of CLOCK and BMAL1 proteins, which regulate gene expression in response to daily cycles. The discovery provides new understanding into the intricacies of biological clocks and may lead to breakthroughs in treating circadian-related disorders.

Study: Residential segregation still a problem in US

A new study found that relatively few black and white families are moving into multi-ethnic neighborhoods, with many instead staying in homogenous communities. The study analyzed mobility patterns of over 44,000 black and 57,000 white families between 1977 and 2005.

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.

New research shows runners can improve health and performance with less training

A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that runners can improve their performance and health by reducing their training time to 20-30 minutes per session. The research involved 18 moderately trained runners who followed the 10-20-30 training concept, which consists of 5-minute running intervals with rest periods.

SHSU professor investigates trends for elderly and crime

The elderly are at higher risk for property crimes, self-neglect, and abuse, with financial swindles being one of the fastest-growing forms of abuse. Studies have shown that older homicide victims are more likely to be female and killed by family members or in the course of a robbery.

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.

U of A maps vaccine for deadly pathogenic fungus

Researchers at U of A used 3-D magnetic resonance to map the structure of Candida, a deadly pathogen with a 40% mortality rate. This breakthrough could pave the way for an effective vaccine development.

Standing trees better than burning ones for carbon neutrality

A new study finds that preserving forests can curb climate change more effectively than harvesting wood as fuel. The research suggests that managing forests for maximal carbon storage can yield significant, predictable benefits within the coming century.

Genetic variant increases risk of heart rhythm dysfunction, sudden death

Researchers have identified a genetic variant in a cardiac protein that increases the risk of heart rhythm dysfunction and sudden death in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. The variant, known as Ser96Ala, affects calcium regulation in heart cells, leading to arrhythmias and increased mortality.

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.

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.

Misuse of over-the-counter pain medication is potential health threat

A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that nearly a quarter of adults at risk of overdosing on single OTC acetaminophen products by exceeding the dose of four grams in a 24-hour period. Additionally, nearly half were at risk of overdosing by 'double-dipping' with two acetaminophen-containing products.

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.

Pitt researchers identify agent that can block fibrosis of skin, lungs

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have identified an agent called E4 that can protect the skin and lungs from fibrosis, a process that can lead to organ failure and death. The agent may work by stalling the cross-linking of collagen needed to form thick scars.

Electric moon jolts the solar wind

Scientists have discovered that the moon's presence affects the solar wind, creating turbulence and changes in direction and density. Computer simulations explain this phenomenon by showing an electric field near the lunar surface generated by sunlight and solar wind flow.

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.

A better delivery system for chemotherapy drugs

Researchers develop new antibodies that bind to MUC1 protein on cancer cells, depositing toxins directly into diseased cells. This method has shown higher efficacy than existing treatments and may be available for more cancer varieties in the future.

Surgical site infections more likely in patients with history of skin infection

New research from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that patients with a past history of skin infection are three times more likely to develop painful and costly surgical site infections during operations. Despite following proper procedures to prevent SSIs, some patients appear to be more susceptible to contracting an infection due to un...

New materials could slash energy costs for CO2 capture

Researchers have identified dozens of zeolite minerals that can improve the energy efficiency of carbon capture technology, reducing 'parasitic energy' costs by up to 30%. The new materials could significantly enhance the feasibility of capturing CO2 from power plant emissions and storing it underground.

Office bacteria all around us, especially in men's offices

A study published in PLOS ONE found that office bacteria are most abundant on chairs, phones, and human skin, with over 500 bacterial genera identified. The study also revealed that men's offices have significantly more bacteria than women's, but the diversity of communities didn't show significant differences.

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.