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Science News Archive November 2012


Page 8 of 23

Bothered by negative, unwanted thoughts? Just throw them away

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that writing down thoughts and then disposing of the paper can reduce their influence on mental judgments. Participants who threw away the paper showed no difference in their attitudes towards positive or negative thoughts, suggesting that physical action influences thought use.

Study advances use of stem cells in personalized medicine

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully used human stem cells to test how diseased cells respond to drugs, paving the way for faster and cheaper drug development. The study identified a promising compound for treating Riley-Day syndrome and demonstrated the potential for tailored treatments for individual patients.

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.

Continuing Thanksgiving eruptions on the sun

A coronal mass ejection (CME) with speeds of 375 miles per second reached the sun's surface in November 2012, marking the third Earth-directed CME since November 20. The event may cause geomagnetic storms and auroras near the poles, but is unlikely to disrupt electrical systems or GPS communications.

Penn researchers make flexible, low-voltage circuits using nanocrystals

A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has developed flexible, low-voltage electronic circuits using cadmium selenide nanocrystals. The new technology offers improved performance and manufacturing cost compared to traditional silicon-based electronics, enabling potential biomedical and security applications.

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.

Possible new treatment for Ewing sarcoma

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute have discovered a new drug with high potential to treat Ewing sarcoma by targeting the EWS/FLI protein. The study found that an enzyme called lysine specific demethylase (LSD-1) interacts with EWS/FLI to turn off gene expression in Ewing sarcoma.

Brief exercise immediately enhances memory, UCI study finds

A short burst of moderate exercise enhances memory consolidation in healthy older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment. Exercise immediately after viewing pleasant images improved recall in both groups compared to those who did not exercise.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Old habits die hard: Helping cancer patients stop smoking

Despite the devastating effects of smoking on cancer treatment and survival, many cancer patients struggle to quit due to various obstacles. Nicotine addiction, limited access to support programs, and socioeconomic status are just a few of the hurdles that hinder smoking cessation.

Engineering plants for biofuels

Researchers successfully engineered Arabidopsis plants to reduce xylan content and improve breakdown of carbohydrate into simple sugars. The resulting plants exhibit improved saccharification properties, allowing for better production of biofuels from plant biomass.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Sensor detects bombs on sea floor

The CSIRO sensor uses technology similar to mineral deposit detection, providing valuable geological information and avoiding unnecessary drilling. The device has the potential to help clear landmines and renew exploration efforts at abandoned sites.

Survival gene may be key to controlling HIV and hepatitis

Researchers discover Arih2 gene essential for immune system function, potentially leading to treatment breakthroughs for chronic infections like HIV and hepatitis. The gene's role in regulating the immune response could lead to new treatments that reinvigorate the immune system and help clear these infections.

Reading, writing and playing games may help aging brains stay healthy

A new study found that frequent cognitive activity in late life is associated with higher diffusion anisotropy values in the brain, indicating better microstructural integrity. The research suggests that keeping the brain occupied can have positive outcomes and may help maintain brain health in older adults.

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.

Fetal alcohol exposure affects brain structure in children

A new study reveals that fetal alcohol exposure alters brain structure and metabolism in children, with MRI techniques showing statistically significant thinning of the corpus callosum. Diffusion weighted imaging also detected increased diffusion, indicative of neurological disorders or brain damage.

Blame, responsibility and demand for change following floods

A study examining attitudes towards government responses after extreme weather events found that perceptions of helplessness can lead to a lack of personal action to prevent flooding. The research, led by the University of Exeter, highlights the need for governments to adapt to climate change and invest in flood resilience.

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.

New insights into a virus proteome

Researchers have identified over 700 novel proteins in the herpesvirus genome, many of which are surprisingly small and complex. This discovery provides new insights into the biology of the herpesvirus and highlights the importance of analyzing the products actually produced from the genome.

Pilot whales use synchronized swimming when they sense danger

Researchers observed synchronized swimming in pilot whales as a response to external threats, highlighting their social structure and affiliative behaviors. The study revealed that these cetaceans form permanent partnerships and change their diving behavior in the presence of vessels.

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.

Britain in 2013 -- the nation in focus

The Britain in 2013 magazine features articles on various pressing problems facing British society, including climate change, hospital mergers, retail sector trends, and Scottish independence. The publication highlights the impact of ESRC-funded research on these issues, offering solutions and insights for a better future.

Improving 3-D image capture in real time

A team of researchers from the Public University of Navarre has developed a new algorithm for improving the real-time capture of 3-D images, enabling applications in fields like 3-D video recording and intelligent systems. The technique uses stereoscopic vision to compare pairs of images and yields better results than previous algorithms.

Offering a reward can improve visual awareness in stroke patients

A study by Imperial College London and Brunel University researchers found that stroke patients with spatial neglect performed better when offered a financial reward. The findings suggest new behavioral therapies for stroke patients and highlight a brain system that can be targeted by drugs.

Newly discovered effects of vitamin D on cancer

Researchers at McGill University discovered vitamin D's molecular basis for potential cancer prevention effects. Vitamin D inhibits cMYC production and function, slowing cell proliferation and potentially slowing cancer progression.

Star Trek Classroom: The next generation of school desks

A three-year project at Durham University has found that collaborative learning increases both fluency and flexibility in mathematics, while using interactive smart desks can have benefits over traditional paper-based activities. The new 'Star Trek classroom' also encourages active student engagement and equal access.

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.

The smell of white

Scientists have created a blended scent, known as 'Laurax,' which spans the entire range of human olfaction and is perceived as neutral. This breakthrough challenges conventional wisdom on how our sense of smell works.

New risk factor identified for high blood pressure during pregnancy

Researchers have found that a specific enzyme, CYP2J2, is overexpressed in women with preeclampsia, contributing to the development of high blood pressure. Inhibiting this enzyme reduced disease symptoms in animal experiments, suggesting a potential new treatment for preeclampsia.

Scientists report a potential new treatment to prevent strokes

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a potential new treatment to prevent strokes in high-risk patients. Using ultrasound scanning, they found that tirofiban, an anti-platelet drug, can suppress microemboli in patients who have developed clots despite previous treatment with aspirin.

ESF awards 14th European Latsis Prize to Professor Uffe Haagerup

Professor Uffe Haagerup received the 14th European Latsis Prize for his pioneering work in operator algebra, a field with significant applications in quantum field theory. The prize recognizes his unique achievements and contributions to mathematics, solidifying his reputation as a leading mathematician.

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.

Relaxation good therapy for hot flushes in post-menopausal women

A study conducted by Elizabeth Nedstrand and Lotta Lindh-Åstrand found that applied relaxation therapy reduced hot flushes in postmenopausal women by half. The treatment also showed improvements in quality of life, particularly in memory, concentration, sleep, and anxiety.

Why older people struggle to read fine print -- new study

Researchers discovered that older adults rely more on holistic cues to identify words, making it easier for them to comprehend text. This finding contradicts the common belief that older adults struggle with reading due to declining visual sensitivity.

Better blood transfusions for preterm babies

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have made a promising breakthrough in reducing adverse inflammatory responses to blood transfusions in preterm babies. By understanding the mechanisms behind these responses, they aim to improve blood transfusion safety and reduce complications.

Magnesium oxide: From Earth to super-Earth

A team of scientists discovered a new high-pressure solid phase of magnesium oxide, which challenges traditional definitions of mantle and core material. This finding suggests that young or hot planets can generate and sustain magnetic fields.

Spanish scientists design a revolutionary data storage device

University of Granada researchers have developed an Advanced Random Access Memory (A-RAM) device that overcomes miniaturization challenges in DRAM cells, enabling long retention times and low battery consumption. The innovation has been patented and demonstrated experimentally, with companies like Samsung and Hynix showing interest.

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.

Study reveals the proteins expressed by human cytomegalovirus

Researchers used ribosome-mapping technique to investigate HCMV's proteome, discovering hundreds of previously unidentified proteins and exceptionally short protein sequences. These findings provide new understanding of how the virus manipulates human cells during infection.

Undisturbed excitation with pulsed light

Scientists have developed a method to prevent 'light shifts' in atomic energy levels using pulsed radiation. The 'hyper' Ramsey excitation scheme suppresses the effect, allowing for more accurate measurements and potentially greater accuracy in optical clocks.

Muscle powers spearing mantis shrimp attacks

Researchers discovered that some mantis shrimp species use muscle to propel their spears, unlike their larger cousins which rely on ballistics. The study found that smaller mantis shrimps use a spring-loaded catapult mechanism.

'Repurposed' anti-parasite drug shows promise as new TB treatment: UBC research

Researchers from the University of British Columbia have discovered that a well-established family of anti-parasite drugs can be repurposed to effectively treat tuberculosis, including drug-resistant forms. The study highlights the potential for investing in research to find new uses for approved drugs and synergistic combinations.

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.

Adults with ADHD commit fewer crimes when on medication

A recent study of over 25,000 individuals with ADHD found that criminal behavior dropped sharply during periods of medication use. The study showed a significant 32% risk reduction for medicated individuals compared to those not taking medication.

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.

Blind patient reads words stimulated directly onto the retina

Researchers successfully streamed braille patterns directly into a blind patient's retina using the Argus II device. The patient accurately read four-letter words and showed excellent spatial resolution, demonstrating the potential for improved reading capabilities with future iterations of the implant.

Le Rouge et le Noir: Where the black dahlia gets its color

Research reveals that black dahlia flowers accumulate more anthocyanins due to low flavone concentrations, leading to their distinctive dark color. This finding could be used to engineer plants with tailored flavone contents, as the suppression of flavone formation is an effective mechanism.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

UK Flusurvey set to go viral

The annual UK Flusurvey aims to collect data from men and women of all ages on flu symptoms, trends, and risk factors. Researchers hope to uncover if 'man flu' is real and explore the impact of pets on reported flu-like illnesses.

Stem cells develop best in 3-D

Scientists from the Danish Stem Cell Center found that stem cells grow better in three-dimensional environments, leading to improved insulin-producing cell development. This discovery holds promise for improving diabetes treatment with cell therapy.