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Science News Archive 2013 - Page 202


Page 202 of 352

ALMA discovers comet factory

Astronomers have discovered a 'dust trap' around a young star that is likely a comet factory, allowing particles to grow from millimetre size to comets. The observations, made using ALMA, reveal a ring of gas with a central hole created by an unseen planet or companion star.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

Surgeons at Duke University Hospital implant bioengineered vein

Researchers at Duke University Hospital successfully implanted a bioengineered blood vessel into a kidney dialysis patient, marking the first US clinical trial of this technology. The new vein is an off-the-shelf product engineered using human cells and no biological properties that trigger organ rejection.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateJun 6, 2013

Parents with heavy TV viewing more likely to feed children junk food

A recent study by researchers at the University of Michigan found that parents with heavy TV viewing are more likely to feed their children junk food. Food-secure families' preschoolers have a distorted view of healthy food, and this link is very strong among these households.

SourceInternational Communication Association·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

Mount Sinai discovers new liver cell for cellular therapy to aid in liver regeneration

Researchers at Mount Sinai have discovered a novel liver progenitor cell that can be differentiated from human embryonic stem cells and produce mature liver cells. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of liver disease, potentially overcoming the organ shortage issue.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 6, 2013

MRI study: Breastfeeding boosts babies' brain growth

A new MRI study by Brown University researchers reveals that exclusive breastfeeding for at least three months enhances brain development in infants, particularly in areas related to language and emotional function. The study found a 20-30% increase in white matter growth in breastfed babies compared to formula-fed babies.

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 6, 2013

Earthquake acoustics can indicate if a massive tsunami is imminent, Stanford researchers find

A Stanford University study reveals that sound waves from earthquakes can reach land tens of minutes before a massive tsunami, potentially providing an early warning. The research identifies a specific acoustic signature that could indicate the presence of a tsunami-generating earthquake, allowing for faster-acting warning systems.

SourceStanford University·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJun 6, 2013

'Caldas tear' resolves puzzling seismic activity beneath Colombia

Researchers identified the 'Caldas tear,' a break in a slab separating two subducting plates, which accounts for seismic activity patterns and high-grade mineral deposits. The tear is thought to be caused by the Panama plate's collision with Colombia, resulting in an accumulation of stresses that could trigger strong motion events.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJun 6, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A CNIO study tracks the evolutionary history of a cancer-related gene

Researchers from CNIO describe how a genetic duplication 500 million years ago led to the evolution of the ASF1b gene, essential for proper cell division and related to breast cancer. The study's findings highlight the importance of studying molecular history to understand gene adaptation in cancer.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJun 6, 2013

Big game hunting in Spain has increased in the last 30 years

The number of big game hunters in Spain has risen significantly over the past three decades, driven by urban tourists seeking trophy hunting experiences. This trend is linked to economic factors, including increased purchasing power and the growth of commercial hunting activities.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalForest Systems·DateJun 6, 2013

Conservatives more likely than liberals to identify mixed-race individuals as Black, NYU study finds

A NYU study explores the connection between political ideology and racial categorization, revealing that conservatives are more likely to identify mixed-race individuals as Black. The research suggests that this phenomenon is linked to system-justifying biases and a desire to maintain traditional social boundaries.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJun 6, 2013

Study suggests second life for possible spintronic materials

A new study suggests that scientists can create a stable structure with manganese and gallium nitride, which could be used in spintronics devices at or above room temperature. By incorporating a uniform layer and heating the sample, researchers were able to form a manganese-nitrogen bond that remains stable even at high temperatures.

SourceOhio University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

Minor changes in cardiovascular health reduce chances of stroke

Researchers found that small increases in cardiovascular health scores, even by just one point, significantly reduced the risk of stroke over a five-year period. This study highlights the importance of maintaining good cardiovascular health in preventing strokes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateJun 6, 2013

NASA satellite reveals Tropical Storm Andrea's towering thunderstorms

Tropical Storm Andrea featured towering thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures above -63F (-52C) and heaviest precipitation over the eastern Gulf of Mexico and southeastern Florida. TRMM satellite data revealed a large area of moderate to heavy rainfall in the storm's northeast quadrant, spreading over Florida.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 6, 2013

How young genes gain a toehold on becoming indispensable

Researchers mapped a young gene's journey to becoming essential in fruit flies, challenging the paradigm that only ancient genes are important. The study found that young and rapidly evolving genes can be indispensable too.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

Research reveals Europe winning war on undeclared work

Research from the University of Sheffield reveals a decline in Europe's undeclared economy from 22.3% to 18.4% of GDP between 2003 and 2012. The study found an east-west divide, with southern European countries having larger undeclared economies.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

Tumors disable immune cells by using up sugar

Researchers found that cancer cells' high sugar consumption disables immune cells' ability to produce inflammatory compounds, making it harder for them to fight tumors. This discovery may lead to new treatments by enhancing T cell function and treating autoimmune disorders.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

Common genetic disease linked to father's age

A new study from USC researchers has found that a genetic mutation in testis stem cells increases the production of sperm carrying the disease trait, making older fathers more likely to pass it along to their children. This mutation gives an edge over normal stem cells, resulting in higher frequencies of new cases every generation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 6, 2013

Research unveils insight into a debilitating brain disease

Glycans play a vital role in cellular communication, but disruptions in their behavior can lead to serious problems. Researchers found that glycans in NPC cells do not recycle properly, causing miscommunication and travel difficulties within the cell.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

A way of thinking may enable battle but prevent war crimes

A new study suggests that suspending humanity through objectification can prevent war crimes, while dehumanizing others evokes disgust and disempathy. By understanding the brain's workings in these situations, researchers aim to develop a more effective military strategy that minimizes harm.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

How birds lost their penises

Researchers discovered that birds have normally developing penises in early embryos but lose them through a genetic program, suggesting possible benefits for reproductive control. The study highlights the importance of programmed cell death in developmental processes and may provide insights into medical questions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 6, 2013

Stranded orcas hold critical clues for scientists

Researchers analyzed North Pacific killer-whale strandings, finding 88% fatal and 12% surviving, providing clues on species' overall life history, genetics, and health. The standardized necropsy system increased data collection from 2% to 33%, shedding light on the causes of death and human impact on orca populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMarine Mammal Science·DateJun 6, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Facebook: A confidence boost for first-gen college students

A new study from the University of Michigan and Michigan State University found that Facebook connections can play a role in helping young people, especially those who are traditionally less likely to go to college, feel more confident about their ability to get into college and to succeed there. First-generation students who use socia...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalComputers & Education·DateJun 6, 2013

Rapid change in China brings significant improvements in health

China has made substantial gains in health over the past two decades, including increases in life expectancy and declines in infectious diseases. However, the growth of non-communicable diseases and risk factors such as tobacco use and high blood pressure are becoming major public health concerns.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 6, 2013

3 billion-year-old microfossils include plankton

Researchers found spindle-shaped microfossils in 3 billion-year-old rocks, indicating the presence of planktonic autotrophs. The findings suggest that oceans had life for an extended period, potentially leading to rapid evolution of diverse life forms.

SourcePenn State·JournalGeology·DateJun 6, 2013

Buckle up the right way: Motor vehicle child safety restraints

Using proper child safety restraint systems decreases mortality and serious injury rates in motor vehicle crashes. Booster seats minimize abdominal injuries, and rear-facing seats should be used until at least 2 years old or 20 pounds.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJun 6, 2013

Pollution in Northern Hemisphere helped cause 1980s African drought

Researchers found that aerosol pollution from the Northern Hemisphere cooled the region, shifting tropical rain bands and leading to drought in central Africa. The study used decades of historical observations and climate models to determine this global impact. The discovery highlights the remote climate effects of air pollution.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

Gannets don't eat off each other's plates

Researchers found that northern gannets avoid visiting neighboring colonies' fishing grounds, suggesting a mathematical explanation rather than territorial behavior. The birds follow specific patterns and routes to find food opportunities, reinforcing cultural transmission within their colonies.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

MIT study sheds light on what causes compulsive behavior, could improve OCD treatments

Researchers at MIT have made significant progress in understanding the neural mechanisms of compulsive behavior by activating a specific brain circuit that controls compulsive behavior. By using optogenetics, they were able to block compulsive behavior in mice and demonstrate potential new approaches for treating diseases such as OCD.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

Spooky action put to order

Researchers develop method to classify quantum entanglement states into geometric objects called polytopes, allowing for efficient prediction and characterization of entangled states. This breakthrough enables the development of novel quantum technologies with practical applications.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

NASA sees heavy rainfall in tropical storm Andrea

Heavy rainfall rates were detected in Tropical Storm Andrea by NASA's TRMM satellite, with rates reaching up to 5 inches per hour in the southern part of the storm. The storm intensified into a tropical storm on June 5, with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 6, 2013

'Living' biofilters could reduce greenhouse gas emissions

University of Calgary researchers plan to deploy and test inexpensive methane biofilters to reduce low-volume methane emissions in the petroleum, forest, and agriculture industries. The project aims to convert methane to carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and their contribution to global warming.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·DateJun 6, 2013

Living fossils? Actually, sturgeon are evolutionary speedsters

A recent study by University of Michigan researchers has found that sturgeon have evolved at an incredible rate in terms of body size, with some species reaching sizes comparable to those of Volkswagen vans. This discovery challenges the common perception of sturgeon as 'living fossils' and sheds new light on the evolutionary process.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2013

'Dust trap' around distant star may solve planet formation mystery

Astronomers have discovered a crescent-shaped structure, known as a dust trap, around a young solar system in the constellation Ophiuchus. The researchers speculate that this feature enables dust particles to cling together, setting the stage for the formation of larger objects.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

Steroid injection therapy may increase risk of spinal fracture

A retrospective study found that higher numbers of lumbar epidural steroid injections (LESI) were associated with increased risk of bone fragility and vertebral fractures. Patients at high risk for fractures include older women, those who have had an earlier fracture, smokers, and underweight individuals.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJun 6, 2013

Human Argonaute proteins: To slice or not to slice?

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered critical differences between human Argonaute proteins, including a single amino acid change in hAgo1 that enables it to act as a slicer. The study highlights the importance of protein regions beyond the active site in determining activity.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 6, 2013

Very berry study aims to improve wine quality

A gene expression study highlights genes that help buffer grapevines against environmental change and may explain the different quality performances of grapevine when grown in different terroirs. The research could be used to identify and breed grapevine varieties better suited to climate change.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 6, 2013
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.

The swing of architect genes

Scientists demonstrate the existence of two distinct regulatory domains controlling arm and hand formation, revealing a complex genetic switch that enables wrist emergence. The study sheds light on the molecular processes governing limb development, highlighting the intricate dialogue between genes and regulatory elements.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

Scientists coax brain to regenerate cells lost in Huntington's disease

Researchers successfully mobilize brain's native stem cells to replenish neurons lost in Huntington's disease. The study demonstrates the feasibility of a completely new concept to treat the disease by recruiting endogenous neural stem cells to regenerate cells, significantly extending survival of treated mice.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 6, 2013

Astronomers gear up to discover Earth-like planets

Researchers aim to discover planets with conditions suitable for life by detecting faint dust clouds around nearby stars. The new technology will improve the odds of finding Earth-like planets with liquid water on their surface.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateJun 6, 2013

Researchers find diminished balance in those with poor vision

Researchers have found that visually impaired individuals and those with uncorrected refractive error are more likely to experience diminished balance when their eyes are closed. The study suggests that vision plays a crucial role in calibrating the vestibular system, which helps maintain physical balance.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJun 6, 2013
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.