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Science News Archive September 2012 - Page 12


Page 12 of 27

Viruses not to blame for chronic fatigue syndrome after all

Researchers tested blood samples from 300 people for the presence of XMRV and pMLV genes, eliminating potential contamination that led to earlier false positives. No correlation between these viruses and chronic fatigue syndrome was found, refuting previous speculation.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateSep 18, 2012

Disability caused by traumatic brain injury in children may persist and stop improving after 2 years

A recent study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma found that children who suffered moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries may still experience substantial functional disabilities and reduced quality of life two years after the injury. The authors suggest that a plateau is reached in recovery beyond this period.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateSep 18, 2012
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.

Substance-use disorders linked to increased risk of death for veterans with PTSD

A new study by the University of Michigan Health System and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System found a significant link between substance-use disorders and mortality in veterans with PTSD. Younger veterans, including those from Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, showed a stronger association between substance-use disorders and death.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateSep 18, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Where body fat is stored may determine the likelihood of obese persons developing Type 2 diabetes

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that obese individuals with visceral fat are at a higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. In contrast, those with excess abdominal subcutaneous fat were not at greater risk. The study, which sampled over 700 obese adults, used imaging methods to determin...

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 2012

Scholarship program to train students in cybersecurity

The National Science Foundation awards a $2.3 million scholarship program at Kansas State University to train students in cybersecurity, as the nation faces growing cyber threats. The program aims to develop experts capable of handling cybersecurity challenges and safeguard critical infrastructure.

SourceKansas State University·DateSep 18, 2012
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.

Sea surface temperatures reach record highs on Northeast continental shelf

Sea surface temperatures reached record highs on the Northeast continental shelf in 2012, exceeding 10.5 degrees C, affecting cod distribution and marine life. The annual spring plankton bloom was intense, starting earlier and lasting longer than average, with implications for species spawning at specific times of the year.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·DateSep 18, 2012

Nanoparticles detect biochemistry of inflammation

Researchers have developed a degradable polymer nanoparticle that detects biologically relevant concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, allowing for the non-invasive detection of inflammation. This method enables targeted drug delivery to diseased tissue, holding promise for treating cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 18, 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.

Precision motion tracking -- thousands of cells at a time

Researchers developed a novel microscopy technique that captures precise motion paths in three dimensions, tracking over 24,000 rapidly moving cells. The technique reveals previously unknown statistical pathways for human male gamete cells, showing complex twists and turns in their movements.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2012

Do you want to know another role of ribonucleotide reductase M2?

The study found that RRM2 overexpression is positively correlated with invasive properties of CRC cells. Silencing RRM2 inhibited hyperplasia and invasiveness, indicating its role in CRC progression. Additionally, RRM2 depletion increased UV sensitivity, suggesting a facilitating factor in DNA damage repair.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Protection for humans on Mars

The European Space Agency (ESA) funded a study to test the shielding properties of Moon and Mars regolith against cosmic radiation. The GSI facility in Germany analyzed how well the stone slabs protect against radiation and produced neutrons when radiated.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateSep 18, 2012

Discovery of reprogramming signature may help further stem cell-based regenerative medicine research

Researchers at Salk Institute discover a unique molecular signature in induced pluripotent stem cells, consisting of nine genes that govern epigenetic changes. This finding could help overcome hurdles to using induced stem cells in regenerative medicine and provide a new understanding of their safety profile.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2012
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Rating HPV biomarkers in head, neck cancers

A study found that detecting specific HPV biomarkers, such as E6/E7 antibodies, in combination with tumor characteristics can help identify patients with a better prognosis. This approach may lead to more targeted treatment for head and neck cancers.

SourceBrown University·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 18, 2012

Reynolds Foundation awards ASU $8.21 million for business journalism

Arizona State University has been awarded two grants totaling $8.21 million by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation to enhance its business journalism programs. The foundation's support will help the university continue to operate the Reynolds National Center for Business Journalism and establish a permanent endowment for visiting profess...

SourceArizona State University·DateSep 18, 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.

New findings on protein misfolding

Researchers have identified 21 proteins that interact with ataxin-1, which can enhance or prevent its misfolding and toxicity. The study found that proteins with a specific structure called 'coiled-coil-domain' promote aggregation and toxic effects.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 18, 2012

Higher levels of BPA in children and teens associated with obesity

A nationally representative sample of nearly 3,000 children and adolescents found those with higher urinary bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations were more likely to be obese. The study suggests BPA exposure may contribute to obesity in humans, particularly among white children and adolescents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 2012

Longer exercise provides added benefit to children's health

A study found that 20-40 minutes of daily exercise reduces the risk of diabetes and body fat in children, with longer periods providing greater benefits. Children who exercised for 40 minutes had a 22% reduction in insulin resistance compared to those who exercised for 20 minutes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 2012

Statins are unlikely to prevent blood clots

A large analysis of over 100,000 participants found that statins have a very small effect on preventing venous thromboembolic events. The study suggests that high-dose and low-dose statins have no effect on blood clots.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 18, 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.

App lets you monitor lung health using only a smartphone

A new tool allows people to monitor their lung function at home or on the go by blowing into their smartphones. The app, SpiroSmart, uses a phone's microphone to analyze sound wave frequencies and detect lung problems with accuracy within 5 percent of commercial devices.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateSep 18, 2012

Government can play important role in obesity epidemic

A government-regulated approach could effectively measure to prevent obesity by addressing excess calorie consumption through portion size control. The proposal aims to encourage food companies to voluntarily alter products or marketing to reduce health risks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 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.

Lack of sleep affects bone health and bone marrow activity

Researchers found dramatic imbalances in bone apposition and reabsorption, reduced marrow fat, and increased platelet counts in sleep-deprived rats. These findings suggest potential medical implications for humans, including poor bone repair and increased risk of osteoporosis.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateSep 18, 2012

NASA sees Hurricane Lane punched in the eye

Hurricane Lane's eye has become cloud-filled, resembling being punched in the eye, due to powerful thunderstorms surrounding it. Cooler waters and increased wind shear are forecast to weaken the storm further, leading to its eventual dissipation by Wednesday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 18, 2012

Tasered youth fare as well as adults, new research says

A new study from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center researchers found no significant differences in injury rates or types of injuries between adolescents and adults who were tased by law enforcement officers. The study, which reviewed 2,026 Taser uses, found most injuries to be mild and superficial.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPediatric Emergency Care·DateSep 18, 2012
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.

New tools help nursing homes track and prevent deadly infections

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America and CDC released new tools to track deadly healthcare-associated infections in nursing homes. Updated infection definitions provide uniform criteria for tracking HAIs, including norovirus gastroenteritis and Clostridium difficile infections.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 18, 2012

New NIST screening method identifies 1,200 candidate refrigerants to combat global warming

Researchers at NIST have developed a new computational method to identify promising refrigerant fluids with low global warming potential. The new method identified over 1,200 candidates from 56,000 compounds, including fluorinated olefins that react rapidly with atmospheric compounds.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateSep 18, 2012

Who is entitled to social welfare?

A Danish researcher found that a universal psychological instinct triggers decisions on deservingness of welfare recipients, regardless of cultural differences. This instinct dates back to the Stone Age, when sharing food was crucial for survival, and influences modern attitudes towards help and support.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateSep 18, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Hopes that new substance will induce cancer cell suicide

Researchers tested APR-246 on 22 patients with advanced blood or prostate cancer, finding indications that the substance restored p53 gene function and triggered cancer cell apoptosis. In two patients, tumor regression was observed, suggesting potential clinical benefits.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 18, 2012

Quasars: Mileposts marking the universe's expansion

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have found a way to map the spread and structure of the universe using the light of quasars. By analyzing patterns of light variation over time, they were able to calculate the relative size of the universe when the light was emitted, compared to today.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 18, 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.

Pacifiers may have emotional consequences for boys

Researchers found that heavy pacifier use in young children is linked to poor emotional maturity and lower perspective-taking scores. The study suggests that girls may be less affected due to societal expectations of emotional sophistication. Parents are advised to limit pacifier use to promote healthy emotional development.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalBasic and Applied Social Psychology·DateSep 18, 2012

How much product information do consumers want?

A study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that people vary widely on the level of detail required for understanding a product. Explanation fiends require more details to feel informed, while explanation foes feel confident with superficial explanations. Understanding what consumers want is crucial for marketers.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 18, 2012

First Pathfinder Awards announced tackling rare and orphan diseases

The Wellcome Trust has announced its first Pathfinder Awards to support research into rare and orphan diseases, including Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation (NBIA) and Homocystinuria. The awards aim to facilitate collaboration between academia and industry to develop innovative treatments for these debilitating conditions.

SourceWellcome Trust·DateSep 18, 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.

Study links breast cancer risk to early-life diet and metabolic syndrome

Researchers at UC Davis discovered that early-life diet and metabolic changes can stimulate breast growth and increase the risk of breast cancer, independent of estrogen levels. The study used mice with a diet supplemented with CLA to mimic metabolic syndrome, which was found to increase mammary duct growth and tumor formation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 17, 2012
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.

Mercyhurst University presents new research on managing spinal injuries to NFL

Mercyhurst University researchers have developed new protocols for managing cervical spine injuries in football players, with the goal of achieving the highest level of care. The research, conducted in collaboration with Sports Medicine Concepts and the NFL, aims to standardize emergency management protocols and improve on-field response.

SourceMercyhurst College·JournalJournal of Athletic Training·DateSep 17, 2012