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Science News Archive February 2013


Page 15 of 28

Vision restored with total darkness

A study by Dalhousie University researchers found that immersion in total darkness can rapidly restore vision in kittens with amblyopia. The recovery depends on the loss of neurofilaments holding the visual system in place. Darkness therapy holds promise for treating children with amblyopia, but more research is needed to determine the...

Combining quantum information communication and storage

Aalto University researchers have made a breakthrough in connecting a superconducting qubit with a micrometer-sized drum head, enabling the transfer of information between the two. This achievement opens up new possibilities for creating exotic mechanical quantum states, such as simultaneous vibration and non-vibration.

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.

Tiny CREPT instrument to study the radiation belts

CREPT will measure energetic electrons and protons in Van Allen Belts, gaining a better understanding of electron microbursts. The instrument demonstrates two new technologies that make it four times faster than its predecessor.

X-ray laser sees photosynthesis in action

Researchers used an X-ray laser to study the structure and chemical behavior of a natural catalyst involved in photosynthesis. The breakthrough, made possible by ultrafast and ultrabright X-ray pulses, provides insights into atomic-scale transformations in photosynthesis and other biological processes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MOND used to predict key property in Andromeda's satellites

Researchers used Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) to predict velocity dispersion in faint dwarf galaxies of Andromeda. In 16 out of 17 cases, their predictions matched the measured velocity dispersions, suggesting that MOND may be a viable alternative to dark matter.

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.

Gene invaders are stymied by a cell's genome defense

Researchers discovered a molecular machine called SCANR that recognizes and targets transposons in cells, potentially halting the spread of genetic elements. This finding builds upon previous discoveries of jumping genes and RNA interference, suggesting a novel way for cells to distinguish between 'self' and 'non-self' genes.

Roots of language in human and bird biology

Researchers at Duke University have found that the genes responsible for human speech share similarities with those used by songbirds. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary roots of language and suggests a convergent complex trait like speech and song may be associated with similar genetic changes.

Yale study links common chemicals to osteoarthritis

Researchers at Yale School of the Environment linked exposure to perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), including PFOA and PFOS, with an increased risk of osteoarthritis. The study found stronger associations for women than men, highlighting the need for further exploration of health effects in susceptible subpopulations.

A little molecule's remarkable feat -- prolonging life

A new study reveals that bacteria capable of manufacturing nitric oxide increase the lifespan of roundworms by nearly 15 percent. The beneficial effect is attributed to the activation of specific genes that enhance stress resistance and immune response, suggesting a potential role for microbiome health in human longevity.

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.

Wonderwalls

Researchers from TUM designed a smart wall panel to assist elderly people in their homes. The panel provides access to vital information, entertainment, and assistance with daily tasks. It also detects critical health issues and contacts healthcare professionals for support.

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.

Dogs spot the dog

A recent study by Dr. Dominique Autier-Dérian and colleagues found that dogs can form a visual category of dog faces and group pictures of different breeds into a single category. This ability allows dogs to recognize their own species visually, despite the large morphological variability within the dog species.

New methodology to predict pandemics

A new research methodology uses network theory to identify outbreaks of unidentified diseases, providing a promising tool for predicting and preventing pandemic diseases. The method analyzed data from 125 outbreak reports and showed distinct patterns for emerging diseases like Nipah virus, allowing for probable diagnoses.

Decoys could blunt spread of ash-killing beetles

Researchers create female emerald ash borer decoy using polymers, allowing for more efficient trapping and detection of male beetles. The decoy is 40% more effective than previously used methods, paving the way for swift control of the pest.

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.

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.

NASA's Fermi proves supernova remnants produce cosmic rays

Scientists have found conclusive proof that supernova remnants accelerate cosmic rays to incredible speeds. The discovery was made using four years of data from NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope and provides a key finding in the search for the sources of high-energy cosmic rays.

Quantum cryptography put to work for electric grid security

The Los Alamos National Laboratory team successfully demonstrated securing control data for electric grids using quantum cryptography. The system achieved latencies of at least two orders of magnitude smaller than requirements, making it suitable for real-time applications.

Research shows how 'Mallard' dye fills need for speed

Researchers at the University of York have developed a new dye, 'Mallard Blue', which can rapidly detect heparin levels in human serum. The dye has excellent sensing capacity for heparin and may improve upon existing clinical methods.

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.

Building healthy bones takes guts

Scientists at Michigan State University found that a natural probiotic supplement can enhance bone density in male mice, but not female mice. The study suggests a possible new treatment for osteoporosis without the risks of traditional medications.

Sewage lagoons remove most -- but not all -- pharmaceuticals

A recent study found that rural sewage lagoons can effectively remove most commonly used pharmaceuticals and hormones from wastewater, but some compounds persist in the environment. The study, led by Wei Zheng, suggests that increased concentrations of PPCPs were detected in November samples due to warmer temperatures.

Leading RSV researcher publishes work at Le Bonheur Children's

Dr. John DeVincenzo's research at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital is advancing our understanding of RSV replication, mutation, and treatment options. His lab has developed new techniques to detect minute sub-populations of viruses and assessed the effectiveness of RNA interference-based antiviral therapies.

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.

Proof: Cosmic rays come from exploding stars

A new study confirms that cosmic rays are born in the violent aftermath of supernovas, exploding stars throughout the galaxy. Protons make up 90% of these particles, which are accelerated by shock waves and then decay into gamma-ray photons with distinctive signatures.

Revealing the secrets of motility in archaea

Researchers from Berkeley Lab and Max Planck Institute analyze unique microbial motor, revealing a dynamic play among its components. The study found that the archaellum consists of two parts, with a globular C terminal domain connected to a more variable N terminal domain.

Indian plant could play key role in death of cancer cells

Researchers have identified an Indian plant compound, gedunin, that attacks a co-chaperone of Hsp90 and leads to the inactivation of the Hsp90 machine, killing cancer cells. This finding may open new ways for targeting Hsp90 using established inhibitors.

Technique that removes additional toxins prolongs dialysis patients' lives

A technique that removes additional toxins during dialysis decreased kidney failure patients' risk of dying from any cause by 30% over three years, with lower risks of heart-related causes and infections. The study's findings suggest OL-HDF may indeed prolong kidney failure patients' lives compared to conventional hemodialysis.

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.

Are billboards driving us to distraction?

Researchers found that emotionally charged words on billboards can provoke an emotional response, distracting drivers and decreasing traveling speed. Positive connotations sped up drivers' responses, while negative words led to drifting and veering from the lane.

Researchers discover breakthrough in ovarian cancer

A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology reveals that patients with low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary or peritoneum can experience tumor stabilization or shrinkage after taking a regular dose of selumetinib. This breakthrough discovery offers new possibilities for treating previously chemoresistant tumors.

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.

What green algae are up to in the dark

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have discovered a metabolic pathway for hydrogen production in green algae under stress conditions, even in the dark. This discovery provides new insights into the production of hydrogen gas and its potential application in sustainable energy solutions.

Low-protein diet slows Alzheimer's in mice

Mice with Alzheimer's-like pathologies showed improved memory and slower disease progression on a low-protein diet supplemented with specific amino acids. The study found reduced levels of IGF-1 and increased blockade of its effects, suggesting potential non-invasive treatments.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Risk of leukemia after cancer chemotherapy persists

A study published in Blood found that certain chemotherapies increase a patient's risk of developing therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (tAML), a rare but frequently fatal condition. The risk varies by type of cancer and year of diagnosis, with some patients facing higher risks more than 10 years after their initial diagnosis.

Stay cool and live longer?

Researchers discovered a genetic program that promotes longevity in roundworms at cold temperatures and found it exists in humans. The study links calcium signaling to aging for the first time, suggesting exposure to cold air or stimulation of this genetic program may promote mammalian longevity.

First animal model of recent human evolution

A team of researchers created an animal model of recent human evolution, revealing a single mutation that produced several traits common in East Asian peoples. The study found that the mutation arose around 30,000 years ago in central China and is linked to thicker hair, denser sweat glands, and other skin features.

2 Cell studies reveal genetic variation driving human evolution

Researchers used an animal model and whole-genome sequence data to identify hundreds of gene variants that potentially helped humans adapt to changing environmental conditions. The findings provide a road map for understanding human biological history and modern-day variability, including traits like resistance to infectious diseases.

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.

New technologies deployed to counter the threat of GPS jamming

Research confirms small devices are primary cause of GPS jamming, with commercial drivers using jammers during moonlighting activities. New technologies, including intelligent receivers and radio-based backups, will protect against impact of these jammers.