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Science News Archive May 2012


Page 4 of 31

Arctic bacteria help in the search to find life on moon Europa

Researchers have discovered that Arctic bacteria can produce biosignatures linked to biological activity, which could be indicative of microorganisms on Europa. The study found needle-shaped sulphur crystals and organic compounds in the environment, sparking hopes of finding life beneath Europa's icy crust.

The sequencing of the tomato genome

The Tomato Genome Consortium has sequenced and assembled the tomato genome, revealing two rounds of triplications that have impacted genes controlling texture, color, and maturation. This analysis provides key information for studying the evolution of this species and exploring methods to promote resistance to pests and water scarcity.

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.

Tomato genome becomes fully sequenced

The tomato genome sequence provides detailed information about its genes and chromosomes, enabling researchers to improve crop yields and quality. The full genome sequence allows for faster and less expensive sequencing of other varieties, with potential applications in improving taste, nutritional content and disease resistance.

'Just do it!' not good enough for cancer patients, UR researchers say

Studies found that regular exercise improved physical function in cancer survivors, but specific prescriptions remain unclear. Researchers also discovered that older cancer survivors engage less in physical activity due to functional declines, potentially affecting independence and survival.

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.

New mini-sensor measures magnetic field of the brain

A new mini-sensor, Chip-scale Atomic Magnetometer (CSAM), has successfully measured the magnetic field of the human brain. The sensor's room temperature operation capability makes it more versatile than conventional cryoelectronics, which are limited to low temperatures.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Building 45 payloads for balloon mission

BARREL aims to measure X-rays produced by charged particles entering Earth's atmosphere, helping scientists understand risks to spacecraft and humans in space. The 45 payloads will be launched on balloons around Antarctica as part of a NASA mission, combining with RBSP measurements for more accurate data.

Nowhere to hide: New device sees bacteria behind the eardrum

A new medical imaging device has been developed to diagnose and treat chronic ear infections by detecting biofilms behind the eardrum. The device uses optical coherence tomography and can identify biofilms in patients with chronic infections, but not those with normal ears.

New study shows why swine flu virus develops drug resistance

A new study published in Biochemistry found that the swine flu virus H1N1-2009 develops resistance to drugs Relenza and Tamiflu by mutating its NA enzyme, specifically the '150-loop' region. This mutation reduces drug effectiveness by 21 times for Relenza and 12,374 times for Tamiflu.

Where not to have a heart attack in Australia

A new index reveals that 71% of Australians live near specialist hospital care and four types of aftercare within an hour's drive. However, rural and remote communities face significant challenges in accessing cardiac care, with Indigenous people living at a lower rate than non-Indigenous Australians.

Commonly used painkillers may protect against skin cancer

A new study suggests that long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin can decrease the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. The findings indicate a potential cancer-protective effect of NSAID use, which should be considered when discussing benefits and harms.

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.

Scientists discover gene which causes rare disease in babies

Researchers identified 20 distinct mutations in a specific gene causing Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency (FGD), leading to cortisol production issues. The antioxidant gene NNT provides a new mechanism for this adrenal disease, potentially opening doors to treating other diseases.

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.

NIH scientists identify new HIV-inhibiting protein

Researchers have identified a new HIV-suppressing protein called CXCL4, which binds to the outer coat of the virus and prevents it from entering human cells. This discovery may provide new insights into treating and preventing HIV disease progression.

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.

Chemical fingerprinting tracks the travels of little brown bats

A novel technique using stable hydrogen isotopes enabled researchers to determine the summer origins of tens of thousands of bats hibernating in three Michigan mines. This could help predict and manage the spread of white-nose syndrome by identifying connected hibernation sites.

Progress of arachidonic acid biosynthesis in microorganisms

Researchers have successfully developed a genetically modified microorganism that produces high levels of arachidonic acid, a key fatty acid essential for infant nutrition. The microorganism, produced through ion beam mutation breeding, has shown promise for industrial application and potential use as a sustainable bio-diesel source.

Trafficked women experience violence and poor health

A systematic review found that trafficked women experience high levels of physical and sexual violence, as well as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The study also highlights the lack of evidence on the health consequences experienced by trafficked children, men, and individuals trafficked for labor exploitation.

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.

NASA satellites watch Tropical Storm Beryl

Tropical Storm Beryl formed off the Carolina coast and was monitored by NASA satellites. The storm made landfall near Jacksonville, Florida, causing heavy rainfall and dangerous surf conditions in nearby areas.

IU bisexuality studies focus on health, behavior and identity

Researchers at Indiana University have conducted two studies on bisexual individuals, finding that women who identify as bisexual or lesbian report better health when their sexual identity matches their recent sexual history. In contrast, queer-identified women's mental, physical, and sexual well-being is not related to the gender of t...

50-year cholera mystery solved

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have uncovered the mechanism behind V. cholerae's resistance to human immune responses. The discovery could lead to the development of a new class of antibiotics that target the bacteria's defenses, rather than directly killing them.

Livestock industry beefs up Illinois's economy

The Illinois livestock industry contributes significantly to the state's economy, generating over 25,000 jobs and $3.5 billion in production. The report also highlights the importance of strategic partnerships between the livestock industry and meat and dairy processing sectors.

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.

Use of stun guns increases injuries

Studies found that stun gun use increases citizen injuries by 41% when solo and 47% when paired with other force methods, but officer safety is also heightened

Greenland's current loss of ice mass

Research reveals Greenland's ice sheet is losing mass at an unprecedented rate, with melting and calving processes increasing by 0.07mm/year annually since 2005. The study provides insights into the impact of regional weather patterns on ice sheet dynamics.

Blocking LRRK2 activity is not a simple answer to Parkinson's disease

Research on LRRK2 protein mutation G2019S reveals potential drawbacks of blocking its kinase activity. In a study published in Molecular Neurodegeneration, deleting the kinase domain of LRRK2 led to changes in motor coordination and anxiety-like behaviors in mice without affecting dopamine signaling.

Discovery of historical photos sheds light on Greenland ice loss

Researchers analyzed 80-year-old photo plates and found that glaciers were melting faster today than in the 1930s, with most glaciers retreating at an average of 20 meters per year. A brief cooling period in the mid-20th century allowed new ice to form before accelerating again.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Got nectar? To hawkmoths, humidity is a cue

Researchers discovered that hawkmoths can detect minuscule differences in humidity near flowers to determine if they have enough nectar. This allows the moths to quickly evaluate flowers and avoid wasting energy on unprofitable ones.

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.

Is California preparing for climate change?

A majority of California's coastal planners acknowledge the need to prepare for climate change impacts like rising sea levels and increased floods. Despite challenges such as limited funding and staff resources, many professionals are actively planning and trying to understand their climate change risks.

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.

Female fat prejudice persists even after weight loss, study finds

A study found that female fat prejudice persists even after weight loss, with participants viewing thin women with a weight loss history as less attractive. The researchers also discovered that negative attitudes towards obese people increase when participants are falsely told that body weight is easily controllable.

Iconic New Zealand reptile shows chewing is not just for mammals

The tuatara's unique chewing technique, using its lower jaw to slice food apart, raises doubts about the link between chewing and high metabolism in mammals. This specialized mechanism allows the tuatara to eat a wide range of prey, including beetles, spiders, and small lizards.

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.

21st century bloodletting reduces cardiovascular risk

Researchers found that two bloodletting sessions improved blood pressure, glucose levels, and cholesterol ratios in obese individuals with metabolic syndrome. Blood donation may prevent diabetes and cardiovascular disease in these patients.

Copper-nickel nanowires could be perfect fit for printable electronics

Duke University chemists created copper-nickel nanowires with improved stability and conductivity compared to plain silver and copper. The new material is an attractive option for printed electronics applications, including solar cells, LEDs, and clothing. Its low cost and high speed make it suitable for mass production.

The Mediterranean diet is definitively linked to quality of life

A study of over 11,000 university students found that adhering to the Mediterranean diet increased scores on quality of life questionnaires, particularly for physical well-being. The diet's emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats was associated with better mental health outcomes.

Freecycling has viral effect on community spirit and generosity

A growing number of recession-weary Americans are shifting towards 'gift economies' built on freebies and community spirit. Online gift-giving communities like Freecycle generate strong feelings of solidarity and identification, driving people to give more gifts in the system.

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.

Typhoon Sanvu had a bad weekend

Typhoon Sanvu transformed into an extra-tropical storm due to cooler sea surface temperatures and wind shear, weakening it significantly. The storm passed Chichi Jima island on May 27, with most rainfall pushed to the northeast of its center.

The first chemical circuit developed

Researchers at Linköping University have developed the first chemical circuit, combining ion transistors to control and transport ions and charged biomolecules. This breakthrough enables chemical control of muscles and signaling systems in the human body, with potential applications for treating diseases.

Mathematicians can conjure matter waves inside an invisible hat

A team of international mathematicians has devised an amplifier that can boost light, sound, or other waves while hiding them inside an invisible container. The researchers propose using this technology to manipulate matter waves, which could enable the creation of a quantum microscope to monitor electronic processes on computer chips.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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