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Science News Archive May 2012


Page 6 of 31

Graphene-control cutting using an atomic force microscope-based nanorobot

Researchers have developed a closed-loop fabrication method to tailor graphene into desired edge structures and shapes. The technique uses interaction forces as real-time feedback, allowing for precise cutting control. This innovation has the potential to fabricate large-scale graphene-based nanodevices at low cost with high efficiency.

Proteomic analysis of immunocamouflaged surfaces

The study used proteomic techniques to analyze the effects of grafted methoxypoly(ethylene glycol) on plasma protein adsorption. Results showed that the polymer-mediated surface camouflage prevented immune recognition signals, enhancing biocompatibility and reducing alloimmunization.

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.

Hazelnuts improve infant formula

Researchers at the University of Georgia have developed a new infant formula using hazelnut oil that better mimics the structure of human milk. This design improves the digestion and absorption of essential fatty acids, including DHA and ARA, which are crucial for infant development.

UC San Diego researchers receive new CIRM funding

Researchers at UC San Diego have received over $12 million in new grants from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to develop stem cell-based treatments for various diseases. The awards will support projects that aim to repair gene mutations, find new drugs and regeneratin spinal cord injuries.

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.

Autopsy of an eruption: Linking crystal growth to volcano seismicity

Scientists analyzed magma chamber crystals and correlated them with seismic signals from Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption, revealing a clear connection between crystal growth and volcanic activity. This study could improve eruption forecasting by providing insights into the timing of magma input and pulses of seismicity.

Inherited DNA change explains overactive leukemia gene

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center discovered a small inherited change in DNA responsible for overactivating the BAALC gene, which is associated with poor treatment response in acute leukemia. The study found that high levels of RUNX1 protein are linked to high BAALC gene expression.

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.

Tongue analysis software uses ancient Chinese medicine to warn of disease

Researchers developed a computer software that combines ancient practices with modern medicine by analyzing images of the tongue, indicating potential health issues. The software distinguishes between tongues showing signs of hot or cold zheng, which is associated with various symptoms such as fever, chills and loose stool.

70 percent of women use contraceptives during their first sexual encounter

The study reveals a prevalence of 70.4% for contraceptive use during the first sexual encounter among Spanish women, with notable differences observed between regions and socio-economic groups. Factors such as education level and geographical location significantly impact contraceptive use in this context.

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.

Cancer may require simpler genetic mutations than previously thought

Researchers have found that cancer cells may require simpler genetic mutations than previously thought to grow and proliferate. The most common hemizygous deletions in cancer involve tumor suppressing genes called STOP genes, which are haploinsufficient, meaning they depend on two copies to function normally.

A new invading sea crab reaches the Ebro Delta

A new invasive species of sea crab, Dyspanopeus sayi, has established itself in the Western Mediterranean Coast, particularly in the Ebro Delta. The crabs are well-established and reproducing in the area without problems, with both sexes captured along with ovigerous females carrying eggs.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A mating dance with Popeye arms

A research team at Bielefeld University is studying how female locusts prefer males with the most powerful swellings on their front legs. The study aims to understand the evolution of sexual ornaments and their role in mate selection, which may be linked to an animal's health.

Picture release: More than meets the eye

Researchers at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory have discovered a 'transformer' protein that allows cells to create vesicles of different shapes and sizes by changing the shape of individual building blocks. This breakthrough provides new insights into the structure and function of COPI protein-coated vesicles.

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.

Skp2 activates cancer-promoting, glucose-processing Akt

Researchers found that Skp2 E3 ligase promotes Herceptin resistance in breast cancer by activating the Akt kinase, which also regulates glucose metabolism. The study suggests that blocking Skp2 could inhibit glycolysis and provide a new approach to cancer treatment.

UMass Amherst wildlife researcher photographs rare Sumatran rabbit

Wildlife researchers at UMass Amherst have captured photographs of the rare Sumatran striped rabbit, which may now be found only in two remote national parks on the Indonesian island. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting these areas from encroachment and development, which threaten the survival of the species.

Math predicts size of clot-forming cells

Researchers developed a mathematical model predicting the final size and shape of platelets, which form blood clots. The study provides insights into the forces inside cells that turn into platelets, shedding light on a longstanding puzzle in platelet formation.

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.

NASA sees Hurricane Bud threaten western Mexico's coast

Hurricane Bud is expected to make a quick landfall in western Mexico before turning back to sea, bringing heavy rainfall and severe flooding to the region. The storm's slow movement may result in life-threatening flash floods and mudslides as it moves over Mexico's rugged coastal terrain.

Copy of the genetic makeup travels in a protein suitcase

Researchers at the University of Bonn have visualized the transport of messenger RNA from the cell nucleus to the cytoplasm using a highly sensitive light microscope. The study reveals that the process involves brief collisions with the nuclear membrane and quality control checks, resulting in only about every fourth successful export.

Feola, at University of Kentucky, receives NIH grant to study cystic fibrosis

Dr. David Feola, a University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy faculty member, has received a five-year, $1.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to investigate immune responses in the lungs that may lead to medical treatments for cystic fibrosis and other chronic pulmonary inflammatory conditions.

Boundary stops molecule right where it needs to be

A team of researchers at Baylor College of Medicine has identified a distal axonal cytoskeleton as the boundary that ensures AnkyrinG clusters properly. The findings suggest that AnkyrinG cannot move beyond this boundary, resulting in proper formation of the axon initial segment and subsequent neural function.

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.

Nuisance seaweed found to produce compounds with biomedical potential

A Scripps-led study reveals that the nuisance seaweed Leptolyngbya crossbyana produces honaucins with potent anti-inflammation and bacteria-controlling properties. These compounds could one day treat chronic inflammatory conditions, bacterial infections, acne, and other skin conditions.

Researchers identify protein necessary for behavioral flexibility

Researchers identified PERK as a crucial protein for maintaining behavioral flexibility, allowing us to adjust behaviors in response to changing circumstances. The study's findings have implications for addressing neurological disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.

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.

Relationship between social status and wound-healing in wild baboons

A study by University of Notre Dame biologist Beth Archie and colleagues found that high-ranking male baboons recover more quickly from injuries and are less likely to become ill than other males. Social status is a better predictor of wound-healing than age, highlighting the complex interplay between social context, physiology, and im...

Asteroid nudged by sunlight: Most precise measurement of Yarkovsky effect

Scientists have directly measured the Yarkovsky effect on asteroid 1999 RQ36, a subtle force causing it to drift from its gravity-ruled orbit. The measurements show the asteroid has deviated by roughly 100 miles over 12 years, revealing its low density and making it an ideal target for the OSIRIS-REx mission.

No new neurons in the human olfactory bulb

Researchers found that the human olfactory bulb, a brain structure processing sensory input from the nose, lacks new neuron generation like other mammals. This discovery may explain why humans have a poorer sense of smell compared to other animals.

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.

Dramatic increase in fragility fractures expected in Latin America

The International Osteoporosis Foundation reports a significant increase in osteoporosis-related fractures and diagnoses in Latin America, driven by the region's aging population. The projected rise in fragility fractures poses a substantial socio-economic burden on healthcare systems.

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.

Autopsy of a eruption: Linking crystal growth to volcano seismicity

Researchers at the University of Bristol used forensic-style chemical analysis to directly link seismic observations to crystal growth in a magma chamber. The study found correlations between peak crystal growth and increased seismicity prior to the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption.

Nanoparticles seen as artificial atoms

Researchers at Berkeley Lab observed nanoparticles forming winding polycrystalline chains that align and attach end-to-end to form nanorods with controlled length-to-thickness ratios. This process suggests a new understanding of how nano-sized particles assemble into hierarchical structures.

Childhood cancer scars survivors later in life

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that childhood cancer survivors experience increased anxiety, depression, and depressive symptoms due to persistent hair loss and disfigurement. The study's findings highlight the long-term impact of childhood cancer treatment on quality of life.

Tiny planet-finding mirrors borrow from Webb Telescope playbook

Scientists at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are developing an infinitely smaller segmented mirror, called the Multiple Mirror Array (MMA), that will revolutionize space-based telescopes. The MMA promises to detect, image, and characterize planets beyond our solar system from a high-altitude balloon.

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.

First direct observation of oriented attachment in nanocrystal growth

Researchers at Berkeley Lab directly observed the critical step of oriented attachment in nanocrystal growth, enabling a better understanding of forces driving this phenomenon. This breakthrough has potential applications in synthesizing new biomimetic materials and improving environmental restoration efforts.

Male fertility genes discovered

A recent study has identified more than 40 genetic regions influencing fertility in Hutterite men, which may shed light on unexplained cases of male infertility. The research also found nine genetic regions impacting sperm quality in non-Hutterites.

Gene therapy can correct forms of severe combined immunodeficiency

A recent clinical trial found that gene therapy can insert the correct ADA gene into patient bone marrow cells, leading to a good response. Defects in B cell tolerance are also corrected after gene therapy, supporting its use as an effective treatment option for ADA-deficient severe combined immunodeficiency patients.

A new strategy for developing meningitis vaccines

Researchers identified glycerophosphate oxidase as a critical protein for bacterial progression to the brain. A vaccine against this protein protected mice from invasive pneumococcal disease, offering a new approach to immunizing against S. pneumoniae.

The cells' petrol pump is finally identified

Scientists have identified the Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier (MPC), a universal carrier that transports pyruvate into mitochondria. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of how cancer cells produce energy and potentially develop new treatments.

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.

Cyber exercise partners help you go the distance

A new study from Michigan State University reveals that exercising with a moderately capable virtual partner can significantly boost motivation, with women cycling twice as long when working with a partner. The results suggest the gains observed over six hour-long sessions could be sustained on a longer-term program of exercise.

Positive words: The glue to social interaction

A study published in EPJ Data Science found that words with positive emotional content are more frequently used in online communication, enhancing social relations and facilitating interaction. This positive bias is linked to the use of less informative words for emotional expression.

Gourmet butterflies speed north

A new study found that warmer summers have allowed the Brown Argus butterfly to shift its diet to wild Geranium plants, enabling it to expand its range in Britain at a rapid rate. Over 20 years, the butterfly has spread northwards by 79km, becoming common in southern England.

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.