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Science News Archive September 2012 - Page 7


Page 7 of 27

Study finds germ-killing power in the eyes

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley have identified a germ-killing power in the eyes' keratin protein, which can effectively combat bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The synthetic molecules derived from this protein show promise as low-cost therapeutics against various infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2012

Like prostate cancer, bladder cancer patients may benefit from anti-androgen therapy

A University of Colorado study shows that bladder cancer patients with high CD24 expression have worse prognoses and may benefit from anti-androgen therapies. CD24 expression depends on androgens, and blocking these hormones may diminish the proliferative and metastatic power of bladder cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

When they do not all look alike: Using identity to reduce own-race bias

New research finds that identifying oneself as part of the same group can improve memory of members of another race. In three experiments, participants showed better memory for members of their own group than others, regardless of race. This effect was especially pronounced when people were motivated to serve a collective goal

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 24, 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.

Bone marrow holds secrets for treating colitis and Crohn's

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a link between bone marrow and inflammatory bowel diseases, such as colitis and Crohn's. The study suggests that targeting the bone marrow's ability to produce inflammatory cells may help alleviate symptoms of these conditions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

First 2 Webb Telescope flight mirrors delivered to NASA

The James Webb Space Telescope's primary mirror is composed of 18 hexagonal-shaped assemblies weighing over 40 kilograms each. The delivery of the first two mirrors marks an important step towards the telescope's integration and fulfillment of its scientific potential, enabling study of distant galaxies and the universe's formation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 24, 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.

NIH launches trial for rare degenerative muscle disease treatment

A clinical trial has begun to evaluate DEX-M74 as a treatment for hereditary inclusion body myopathy, a rare degenerative muscle disease. The study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of DEX-M74 in patients with progressive muscle weakness.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateSep 24, 2012

In birds' development, researchers find diversity by the peck

New investigation reveals surprising flexibility in finches' beak development, with different species sharing same developmental pathways yet producing unique shapes. This discovery offers new insight into the adaptability of birds to fill various ecological niches.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

What does the feminization of family medicine mean?

Female family physicians in Canada are practising differently, working fewer hours and seeing more patients with longer visits, but younger male physicians also work less than older counterparts

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 24, 2012

Exposing cancer's lethal couriers

Researchers developed a new nanotechnology that detects micrometastases in mouse models of breast cancer, marking them for early diagnosis and treatment. The technology uses nanochains to target cancer cells with integrins, allowing doctors to guide surgery or deliver cancer-killing drugs directly to the cells before a tumor forms.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 24, 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.

Small proteins in the cornea protect against bacterial infection

Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that corneal epithelial cells express small antimicrobial peptides to defend against bacterial infection. These peptides prevent bacteria from binding to epithelial cells and are crucial in protecting the eye against infections, as evidenced by mice lacking cytokeratin 6A being more susceptible.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2012

Newly discovered molecule could deliver drugs to treat diseases

Researchers at Kansas State University have designed a membrane-bounded vesicle formed entirely of peptides that can safely deliver drugs to specific cells in the body. The peptide vesicles offer advantages over existing drug delivery systems, such as improved stability and durability.

SourceKansas State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2012

Little evidence supports medical treatment options for adolescents with autism

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that there is insufficient evidence to support medical interventions in adolescents and young adults with autism. Key findings include the potential benefits of antipsychotic medications in reducing problem behaviors, but limited effectiveness for vocational interventions.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateSep 24, 2012

Pregnancy complications up to twice higher in women born preterm

Women born preterm face a significant increase in pregnancy complications, with risks rising for more premature births. The study, led by Dr. Anne Monique Nuyt, analyzed data from 7,405 women and found that one in five pregnancies involve complications for women born before 32 weeks of gestation.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 24, 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.

Human brains outpace chimp brains in the womb

A new study tracked brain growth in human and chimpanzee fetuses, finding that human brains begin to show remarkable differences after 22 weeks of gestation. The findings suggest a faster rate of brain growth in humans compared to chimpanzees.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 24, 2012

UCLA scientists fine-tune probe for early Alzheimer's detection

Researchers have discovered how chemical agents bind to and detect amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles in the brain, enabling quicker diagnosis and earlier treatment. The study's findings will speed the development of new imaging agents, providing potential benefits for patients with early Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

Cutting through the genomic thicket in search of disease variants

Researchers developed EvoD to sift meaningful variants from thousands of mutations in personal genomes, improving diagnostic accuracy. The technique capitalizes on comparative genomics and exome analysis, showing promise for detecting functionally damaging gene variants associated with Mendelian diseases.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 24, 2012

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute engineer novel DNA barcode

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute engineer a new kind of DNA barcode that can come in an almost limitless array of styles, allowing for vastly more vital information to be gathered from cell samples. The method harnesses the natural ability of DNA to self-assemble, enabling low-cost and robust cellular imaging.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 24, 2012

MRI helps identify patients with prostate cancer who may benefit from active surveillance

A new study in The Journal of Urology presents promising results on the use of MRI to assess eligibility for active surveillance in men with clinically low risk prostate cancer. The findings suggest that clear tumor visualization on MRI is predictive of disease status upgrades on confirmatory biopsy, highlighting the potential of MRI t...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateSep 24, 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.

Near-roadway air pollution a major contributor to asthma in Los Angeles County, USC research finds

A USC study indicates that at least 8% of childhood asthma cases in LA County can be attributed to traffic-related pollution within 250 feet of busy roadways. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through policies and near-roadway exposure can maximize health benefits. The research suggests a link between urban air pollution, including nit...

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 24, 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.

Primate study adds to evidence of BPA harming human reproduction

A new study by WSU geneticist Patricia Hunt and colleagues reveals BPA can damage chromosomes, disrupt egg development, and increase the risk of miscarriages and birth defects in rhesus monkeys. The research bolsters earlier findings on reproductive effects in rodents and raises concerns about human exposure to this common chemical.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

Treating ovarian cancer: New pathways through genetics

A Montreal-based research team has identified genetic patterns in ovarian cancer tumors that relate to patient survival after initial surgery. The study found that patients with mutant p53 protein had longer survival rates compared to those without.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 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.

Researchers demonstrate cheaper way to produce NFO thin films

Researchers have demonstrated a less-expensive way to create textured nickel ferrite (NFO) ceramic thin films, which can easily be scaled up for manufacturing needs. The new technique allows for the creation of NFO thin films with an aligned crystalline structure, maximizing their magnetic properties.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 24, 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.

Study analyzes variations in antibiotic prescribing among older patients

A study of Medicare data found wide variation in antibiotic prescribing for older adults based on region and season, with the South having the highest use and West the lowest. The study highlights the need for targeted quality improvement initiatives to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 24, 2012

White matter, old dogs, and new tricks at Dartmouth

A study published in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience found that brain white matter can change and adapt in response to long-term learning processes. Using diffusion tensor imaging, researchers observed significant structural changes in adults learning a complex skill over time.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateSep 24, 2012
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Video: 3-D time-lapse imaging captures twisted root mechanics for first time

Using 3D time-lapse imaging, scientists have discovered that plant roots twist and buckle to generate force and push through barriers, allowing them to grow in difficult soil conditions. The study sheds new light on the mechanics of root growth and reveals a previously unknown connection between root geometry and force generation.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

Brazil, FIOCRUZ and DNDi Latin America partner to fight neglected diseases

The Brazilian Ministry of Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), and Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) Latin America have partnered to develop new therapies and diagnostics for neglected diseases. This partnership aims to boost innovation in the field and provide new health tools to Brazil's public health programs.

SourceDrugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative·DateSep 23, 2012

Constraining world trade is unlikely to help the climate

Researchers found that constraining world trade is unlikely to help combat climate change, as emissions mainly originate from the production process of imported goods. The US current account deficit and China's energy mix are significant contributors to CO2 transfers.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 23, 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.

Stratosphere targets deep sea to shape climate

A University of Utah study found that periodic changes in winds 15 to 30 miles high in the stratosphere influence deep-sea circulation patterns, affecting Earth's climate. The research revealed the North Atlantic as a sensitive area where warming or cooling from the troposphere can trigger downwelling events.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 23, 2012

New chemistry technique from the Scripps Research Institute reproduces nature's elusive complexity

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute developed a new technique to synthesize complex terpenes, a crucial step towards cheaper and fully synthetic cancer drugs like Taxol. The breakthrough mimics a natural biochemical phenomenon that allows cells to make these compounds, overcoming significant challenges in organic chemistry.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 23, 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.

Urgent need for integrated oncology and palliative care

The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has awarded 16 new centers with integrated oncology and palliative care accreditation. A new study from Italy highlights the underuse of adjuvant analgesics in cancer pain management, emphasizing close patient follow-up.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 23, 2012

Large bacterial population colonized land 2.75 billion years ago

Scientists found evidence that early microbes colonized land 2.75 billion years ago, producing oxygen and weathering minerals. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that life was limited to oceans during this period, suggesting a more significant role for microorganisms on land.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 23, 2012

Cancer research yields unexpected new way to produce nylon

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a molecule necessary for producing nylon using genetic changes found in cancer tumors. This breakthrough enables environmentally friendly adipic acid production from cheap sugars.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 23, 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.

Understanding the brain by controlling behavior

Researchers at Harvard University have successfully controlled the behavior of worms by manipulating their neurons with precise laser beams. By hijacking key neurons, they can instruct the worm to perform specific actions, such as turning in a desired direction or responding to fake sensory inputs.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 2012

Scientists predict major shifts in Pacific ecosystems by 2100

A new study finds that climate change could lead to significant changes in Pacific ecosystem distribution, affecting thousands of marine animals and coastal communities. Some species, like loggerhead turtles and sharks, may face harsh impacts, while others, such as seabirds and tunas, may benefit from shifting habitats.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 23, 2012

MDC researchers solve puzzle of B-cell lymphoma development

Researchers at MDC Berlin-Buch identified subpopulations of B cells with activated Myc genes, essential for germinal center formation and maintenance. These findings shed light on the origin of B-cell lymphomas derived from germinal centers.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Immunology·DateSep 23, 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.

UNC Lineberger scientists lead cancer genome analysis of breast cancer

A team of researchers identified genetic causes of the most common form of breast cancer, Estrogen-Receptor positive Luminal A subtype, providing clues for new therapeutic targets. They also found a molecular similarity between basal-like breast cancers and high-grade serous ovarian tumors.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 2012

Mount Sinai researchers identify predictors for inpatient pain

Researchers at Mount Sinai identified reliable predictors of pain in inpatients, enabling interdisciplinary teams to develop targeted intervention plans. These plans resulted in decreased pain levels and increased patient satisfaction across various departments, with reported pain levels decreasing by 3.6% per quarter.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateSep 21, 2012