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Science News Archive September 2012


Page 13 of 27

Simple test to predict if pregnant women will give birth prematurely

Researchers developed a method to predict if pregnant women with preterm contractions will give birth within seven days. The new blood test combines two specific proteins with an ultrasound examination of the cervix, offering possibilities to delay delivery and prepare care for premature babies.

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.

Alpine glaciers contribute to carbon cycling

Researchers have discovered that Alpine glaciers contain diverse biogeochemical complexes of dissolved organic matter, which is surprisingly bioavailable. This finding highlights the importance of glaciers as 'freezers' that preserve organic matter for microbial heterotrophs.

Shrinking snow depth on Arctic sea ice threatens ringed seal habitat

A new study found that the area with sufficient snow cover for ringed seals to reproduce will disappear by almost 70% this century. The researchers anticipate that the loss of sea ice will lead to insufficient snow depth, causing caves to collapse and hindering the seals' ability to raise their pups.

Cystic fibrosis disrupts pancreas two ways in CF-related diabetes

Cystic fibrosis causes two abnormalities in the pancreas that affect insulin production, leading to diabetes. The study also found that CF can disrupt insulin regulation as early as birth, with defects in chloride channel protein potentially contributing to the problem.

Behavior issues are a bigger headache for children with migraines

A large-scale study found that children with migraine headaches are more likely to experience social and attention issues, as well as anxiety and depression. The study, published in the journal Cephalalgia, suggests that headache frequency is a key factor in these behavioral difficulties.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

At the right place at the right time -- new insights into muscle stem cells

Researchers have elucidated how muscle stem cells colonize niches for efficient growth and repair. They found that these stem cells weaken when located outside their muscle fiber niches, leading to weakened muscles. The Notch signaling pathway plays a crucial role in preventing differentiation of stem cells into muscle cells.

Canada needs approach to combat elder abuse

Elder abuse affects 4% of Canadian seniors, with an estimated 200,000 to 500,000 people experiencing abuse or neglect. A comprehensive approach is needed, including financial support for caregivers and education, training, and respite programs.

Clinic-based community program helps with childhood obesity

A new feasibility study by Temple University researchers found that a 6-month clinic-based community program helped 10% fewer children overcome obesity. The program, which included weight loss and management lessons for kids and their parents, was successfully implemented in the community.

Report: Cancer now leading cause of death in US hispanics

A new report from the American Cancer Society reveals that cancer has surpassed heart disease as the leading cause of death among Hispanics in the US. The report highlights the unique factors contributing to this trend, including age distribution, socioeconomic status, and immigration history.

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.

Toxic protein build-up in blood shines light on fatal brain disease

A new blood test has been developed to measure levels of the toxic protein that causes Huntington's disease, which builds up gradually in blood cells over time. The research found that levels of mutant huntingtin protein corresponded to brain shrinkage, and may help explain how damage accumulates, eventually causing symptoms.

Precision motion tracking – Thousands of cells at a time

Researchers have developed a novel microscopy technique that captures precise motion paths of large numbers of rapidly moving objects under a microscope. The technique recorded the paths of 24,000 human male gamete cells over several seconds, revealing previously unknown statistical pathways.

Blue Brain Project accurately predicts connections between neurons

The Blue Brain Project has accurately predicted the locations of synapses in a cortical microcircuit, demonstrating key principles that govern brain structure and function. This breakthrough enables the creation of near-perfect models of the nervous system, shedding light on how brains are constructed from diverse populations of neurons.

Study compares duodenal switch vs. gastric bypass for morbid obesity

A study comparing bariatric surgical procedures found that the duodenal switch (DS) achieves better weight loss and controls co-existing illnesses in patients with a BMI over 50. The DS was also associated with lower weight loss failure rates and improved comorbidity control compared to gastric bypass.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sorghum eyed as a southern bioenergy crop

Researchers at USDA's ARS have identified sorghum as a promising bioenergy crop thanks to its drought tolerance, versatility, and high biomass content. The plant can produce sugar that can be converted into biofuel, making it an attractive alternative for the southern US region.

Dry-run experiments verify key aspect of Sandia nuclear fusion concept

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have successfully conducted dry-run experiments on a key aspect of their MagLIF nuclear fusion concept. The experiments tested the durability of cylindrical beryllium liners under intense magnetic fields, with promising results that suggest the concept is moving closer to achieving scientific...

Children evaluate educational games

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg conducted a study on children's game playing, focusing on the educational game Fingu. The results showed that curiosity and imagination could be improved in the game, while also emphasizing the importance of understanding how different game designs affect parent-child interactions.

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.

JCI early table of contents for Sept. 17, 2012

Researchers develop a non-invasive method to track Huntington's disease progression by detecting mutant huntingtin protein in immune cells. Additionally, CXCR1/2 inhibition improves pancreatic islet survival after transplantation, and the loss of thyroid stimulating hormone contributes to osteoporosis.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Summer Geoscience from GSA Bulletin

Recent GSA Bulletin articles discuss tectonics, mineral formation, the Moho, age dating using zircon crystals, atmospheric CO2, and early animal evolution. Slow faults in Spain produce large earthquakes with thousand-year recurrence periods.

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.

Rapid urban expansion threatens biodiversity

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences predicts that rapid urban expansion will have significant impacts on global biodiversity hotspots. By 2030, urban areas are expected to expand by over 463,000 square miles, coinciding with infrastructure development that will transform land cover and cities globally.

US underestimates costs of carbon pollution and climate change

A new study reveals that the US federal government significantly underestimates the economic damages caused by climate change. The current model ignores the impacts on future generations, resulting in underestimated costs for carbon pollution. Adopting cleaner energy sources can provide significant economic benefits and pave the way fo...

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.

Considerably more patients may benefit from effective antidiabetic drug

Researchers at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, have found that metformin is effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, serious infection, and death in patients with mild kidney impairment. The study suggests that metformin can be prescribed for many more patients with diabetes than previously thought.

New 'ATM' takes old phones and gives back green

The ecoATM system uses AI to evaluate devices, determine market value and offer recycling options. Three-fourths of collected phones find new homes, while rare earth elements are reclaimed and toxic components are recycled.

AGU journal highlights – 17 September 2012

New research reveals Mercury's surface composition is dominated by minerals high in magnesium and sulfur, differing from other planets. In contrast, African dust forms red soils in Bermuda through a complex interplay of local and global climate processes. The origin of these unique features remains a topic of ongoing scientific study.

Berkeley Lab sensors enable first light for the dark energy camera

DECam, the most powerful sky survey instrument built, relies on Berkeley Lab's red-sensitive astronomical CCDs for exceptional sensitivity and resolution. This collaboration has enabled scientists to collect images of distant galaxies and measure the expansion history of the universe with unprecedented precision.

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.

No increased risk of cancer for people with shingles

A large Taiwanese study of 35,871 patients with newly diagnosed shingles found no increased risk of cancer. The study suggests that enhanced surveillance for cancer after a shingles diagnosis is unnecessary, according to the authors.

Challengers to Clovis-age impact theory missed key protocols, new study finds

A new independent analysis published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has confirmed the presence of magnetic particles at sites challenged by a group led by Todd A Surovell. The study's findings support the climate-altering cosmic impact theory, but the researchers did not declare it as proof.

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.

High-flying NASA aircraft helps develop new science instruments

The ER-2 aircraft will fly test models of two future satellite instruments, the Cloud-Aerosol Transport System (CATS) and the Multiple Altimeter Beam Experimental Lidar (MABEL), to gather data on clouds and aerosols. These instruments will be used to improve studies of aerosol transport and cloud motion.

Hope on the horizon for asthma sufferers

Researchers have identified a calcium-activated chloride channel that holds clues to reducing asthma severity. Blocking this channel has been shown to inhibit airway secretions and smooth muscle contraction, key factors in asthma attacks.

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.

Cancer and chronic disease causes almost half of gradual deaths in Europe

Research published in BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care reveals that cancer and chronic disease account for nearly half of gradual deaths in European Union countries. The study found that thousands of people experience debilitating symptoms before passing away, emphasizing the need for palliative care strategies to improve quality of life.

New gene could lead to better bug-resistant plants

A new gene has been discovered that can help make domestic tomatoes more resistant to pests, a trait shared by their wild cousins. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, identifies a gene involved in producing acyl sugars that fend off bugs.

NASA's Hurricane Mission explores Tropical Storm Nadine

Tropical Storm Nadine strengthened to a hurricane on September 14 and weakened back to a tropical storm on September 16. NASA's Global Hawk aircraft investigated the storm, capturing data using instruments and dropsondes, while satellites obtained imagery from space.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Mercyhurst University casts roving eye on Venus

The research aims to test two theories on Venus' geological history, focusing on its volcanic activity and plate tectonics. The team will gather data from NASA's Magellan mission and create statistical models to analyze the orientations of volcanic constructs.

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.

A non-invasive method to track Huntington's disease progression

Scientists have discovered a way to quantify mutant huntingtin protein in immune cells isolated from a normal blood draw, which shows significant correlation with disease symptom severity. This breakthrough could enable the development of non-invasive biomarkers for Huntington's disease.

Noteworthy studies at the ESMO 2012 Congress

Recent breast cancer research at ESMO 2012 emphasizes the importance of avoiding weight gain after treatment to reduce recurrence risk. Additionally, studies focus on the correlation between body mass index and prognosis, as well as lung cancer in never-smoking women, highlighting hormonal factors and high incidence of EGFR mutation.