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Science News Archive November 2012 - Page 8


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.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 26, 2012

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.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 26, 2012

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 26, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2012

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.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalOncogene·DateNov 26, 2012
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.

New behavioral strategies may help patients learn to better control chronic diseases

Researchers suggest that physicians use tools from behavioral economics and social psychology to motivate patients to control their chronic diseases. Techniques include helping patients form specific plans, breaking big goals into smaller tasks, and using cash payments as a motivator.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateNov 26, 2012

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateNov 26, 2012

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.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCommunity Oncology·DateNov 26, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels·DateNov 25, 2012

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.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateNov 25, 2012

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.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 25, 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.

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.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 25, 2012

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.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 25, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 25, 2012

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.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2012

Researchers link new molecular culprit to breast cancer progression

Johns Hopkins researchers identified a protein called JMJD2C that helps breast cancer cells spread by unlocking genes. The discovery confirms the protein's role in breast cancer progression and offers a potential target for anti-cancer therapy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2012
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.

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.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBehavioural Processes·DateNov 23, 2012

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.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateNov 23, 2012

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.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateNov 23, 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.

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.

SourceImperial College London·DateNov 23, 2012

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.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceDurham University·JournalLearning and Instruction·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 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.

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.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalCirculation·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalStroke·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceEuropean Science Foundation·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateNov 22, 2012
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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPediatric Research·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalIEEE Electron Device Letters·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 22, 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.

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.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateNov 22, 2012

'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.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 22, 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.

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.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroprosthetics·DateNov 22, 2012

Team solves birth and migration mysteries of cortex's powerful inhibitors, 'chandelier' cells

A team led by Professor Z. Josh Huang has revealed the birth timing and embryonic origin of critical inhibitory brain cells called chandelier cells, tracing their specific paths into the cerebral cortex of mouse brains. This breakthrough sheds light on the genetic programming of brain development and the role of these cells in balancin...

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 22, 2012
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.

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.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Plant Biology·DateNov 22, 2012

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.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateNov 21, 2012

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.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 21, 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.