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Science News Archive 2013 - Page 214


Page 214 of 352

Women donate less to charity than men in some contexts

A new field experiment by University of Chicago economists found that women are more likely to opt-out of charity donations, especially when given the option. In contrast, men's giving was slightly affected, with women giving only half as much as before in situations where they could avoid donating.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateMay 28, 2013

Saturated fats do not yield better bacon

Research suggests producers feeding high levels of DDGS reduce fat softening by limiting feed in last weeks before harvest. Pigs fed diets with saturated fats did not show firmer belly flop distances, contradicting long-held assumption that they improve fat quality.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMay 28, 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.

Dealing with 'crap' to improve water quality

A former University of California, Riverside graduate student built a system that replicates a human colon, septic tank, and groundwater to understand the impact of bacteria on groundwater. His research found that pathogens could potentially linger longer in aquatic environments, posing a risk to water quality.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 28, 2013

Picking up a second language is predicted by ability to learn patterns

A new study suggests that the ability to pick up on statistical regularities is a key factor in learning a second language. American students who performed well on a task measuring their capacity for statistical pattern recognition were found to be more successful in picking up Hebrew over two semesters.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 28, 2013

Scientists find possible solution to an ancient enigma

Scientists discovered that foraminifera may be responsible for the decline of stromatolites and the emergence of thrombolites. The researchers found evidence of foraminifera in both types of structures, suggesting a possible link between their disappearance and appearance.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 28, 2013

Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust funds new research focus at Institute for Genomic Biology

The Institute for Genomic Biology will develop foundational synthetic biology technologies and computational platforms for genetic modification of plants and animals. The grant aims to address grand challenges in human health and environmental sustainability, with potential applications in crop yields and disease treatment.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateMay 28, 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.

Scientists pave the way for vaccine to combat devastating avian disease

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a vaccine that protects against necrotic enteritis, a severe poultry disease caused by Clostridium perfringens. The vaccine targets the bacterium's NetB toxin, allowing for effective prevention and control of the devastating disease.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiological Chemistry·DateMay 28, 2013

Study explores 100 year increase in forestry diseases

A new study in the Journal of Quaternary Science explores the historic impact of forest diseases on vegetation change. The research suggests that human activity, such as international seed trade, is a major factor in frequent pathogen outbreaks over the last 100 years.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Quaternary Science·DateMay 28, 2013

The analysis of medical images is improved to facilitate the study of psychotic disorders

Researchers have developed new superresolution and segmentation methods for magnetic resonance images to analyze structural brain differences in psychotic patients and their healthy relatives. These methods improve the quality of images and enable automatic calculations of desired sizes, leading to a better understanding of psychosis.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateMay 28, 2013

New approach may allow faster spinal anesthesia for cancer patients at end of life

Researchers developed a set of equations to estimate the initial dose of intrathecal spinal pain relievers, avoiding the need for epidural anesthesia trials. This approach could shorten time to satisfactory pain control in patients with uncontrolled cancer pain, allowing them to spend more of their remaining days at home.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAnesthesia & Analgesia·DateMay 28, 2013
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.

Soda and illegal drugs cause similar damage to teeth

A study published in General Dentistry found that soda consumption, especially diet soda, can cause severe tooth erosion and damage similar to methamphetamine and crack cocaine use. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends minimizing soda intake and using sugar-free gum or rinsing with water after consumption.

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateMay 28, 2013

Crystal-clear method for distinguishing between glass and fluids

Researchers developed a simple model to explain the difference between glass and molten materials, with spherical plastic particles in aqueous solution. The study found that internal tensile stresses persisted in the glassy state, distinguishing it from fluid behavior.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 2013

When perks don't work

A study by University of British Columbia researchers found that consumers experience social awkwardness when given free upgrades in front of others, leading to a decline in satisfaction and shorter browsing times. The study suggests that retailers should offer perks privately to avoid embarrassment.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 27, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Bechstein's bat is more Mediterranean than originally thought

A recent study challenges traditional views on Bechstein's bat distribution, suggesting that historical changes in its habitat rather than climate may be responsible. The research found that the species' ecological niche is narrow and flexible, with adaptable roosting and hunting habits.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateMay 27, 2013

Decision-making preferences among patients with heart attacks

A study of 6,636 patients with heart attacks found that two-thirds prefer an active role in decision-making. Physicians who provide patient-centered care should directly ask patients about their decision-making preferences. The study aims to develop systems that respect these preferences and give patients the opportunity they desire.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013
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.

Down syndrome neurons grown from stem cells show signature problems

New study finds Down syndrome neurons have reduced connections and high levels of oxidative stress, which could contribute to accelerated aging and increased susceptibility to Alzheimer's disease. Researchers hope to use these cells to test potential treatments for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 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.

How do plants grow toward the light?

Researchers at TUM discovered that auxin hormone plays a crucial role in plant growth towards light. By understanding the auxin transport mechanism, they were able to prove its involvement in phototropism for the first time. The study highlights the importance of auxin in regulating plant cell elongation and responding to light signals.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 27, 2013

When doctors and patients share in decisions, hospital costs go up

A hospital-based study found that patients who want to participate in their medical decisions end up spending more time in the hospital and raising costs of their hospital stay by an average of $865. The study suggests that encouraging patients to be more involved may not reduce costs, but rather increase length of stay and costs. Prov...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013
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.

Salmonella uses protective switch during infection

Researchers found a protective molecular switch in Salmonella Typhimurium that helps the bacteria adapt to hostile environments during infection. This switch, using S-thiolation, may provide insight into fighting systemic illness and could be exploited to develop new treatments.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

All in one shot

Researchers have discovered a common sugar molecule on the cell surface of multiple pathogens, which could be key to developing a broad-spectrum vaccine. The sugar polymer, known as PNAG, is found on the surfaces of bacteria that cause strep throat, pneumonias, malaria, and other deadly infections.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

Snail shell coiling programmed by protein patterning

Research found that snails' coiled shells are driven by a protein gradient and asymmetry in Decapentaplegic expression, contrasting with limpet shells which lack this asymmetry. The study provides an explanation for the evolution of shell coiling in gastropods.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEvoDevo·DateMay 27, 2013
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.

Surge in children accidentally eating marijuana-laced foods

A new study by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found a significant increase in unintentional ingestions of marijuana by children since Colorado's drug laws modification in 2009. The number of children treated for exposure to marijuana increased from zero before 2009 to 588 after October 1, 2009.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 27, 2013

Communication between physicians and patients important for expectations

A study found that seriously ill patients undergoing hemodialysis tend to be more optimistic than their physicians about their prognosis. Nephrologists rarely discuss estimated life-expectancy with patients, instead leaving it to patients to over-estimate their long-term survival rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013

KISS ME DEADLY proteins may help improve crop yields

A new regulator for plant hormone signaling, the KISS ME DEADLY family of proteins (KMDs), has been identified by Dartmouth researchers. This discovery may lead to improved agricultural productivity and increased crop yields.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

The formula for turning cement into metal

Researchers from Argonne National Laboratory have created a semi-conductor material by turning liquid cement into liquid metal through electron trapping. This process creates metallic-glass material with positive attributes including conductivity, fluidity, and low energy loss.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 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.

Preterm birth affects ability to solve complex cognitive tasks

Researchers found that preterm children's cognitive performance deficits increase with task complexity and decrease with pregnancy duration. The study suggests that educational interventions could be developed to promote academic attainment in preterm children.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 27, 2013

How patient centered are medical decisions?

A national survey found that adults often did not make informed medical decisions due to insufficient shared decision-making. Healthcare providers need to improve patient engagement by balancing discussions on pros and cons and regularly seeking patient input.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New safety test predicts reactions to novel drugs and cosmetics

A new skin test called Skimune has been developed by Newcastle University to predict adverse reactions to new drugs and cosmetics. The test uses real human skin and immune cells to identify potential risks, providing a faster and more accurate alternative to animal testing.

SourceNewcastle University·DateMay 27, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for May 28, 2013

Researchers found that using the oral glucose challenge test (OGCT) with a glucose threshold of 7.2 mmol/L had a sensitivity of 99 percent and specificity of 77 percent for diagnosing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). GDM screening may also reduce complications such as preeclampsia, shoulder dystocia, and high birth weight.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013

Stem cell injections improve spinal injuries in rats

A single injection of human neural stem cells produced therapeutic benefits in rats with acute spinal cord injury, including improved function and mobility. The grafted stem cells stimulated host neuron regeneration and partially replaced the function of lost neurons, reducing muscle spasticity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·DateMay 27, 2013
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.

Elsevier launches new open access journal: Translational Proteomics

The new journal aims to cover all areas of research in human proteomics, using multi-disciplinary approaches to untangle complex disease processes. It will provide a platform for high-quality, multi-disciplinary studies combining early discovery with clinical applications.

SourceElsevier·JournalTranslational Proteomics·DateMay 27, 2013

Rats have a double view of the world

Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that rats move their eyes in opposite directions, allowing them to maintain a constant binocular field and detect potential threats. This adaptation is thought to increase their chances of survival against birds and other predators.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 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.

Colon cancer screening: Immunological tests are superior

A large-scale study has shown that immunological stool tests are more sensitive than enzyme-based tests in detecting colon cancer and precancerous lesions. The tests detected about twice as many cancer cases and three times as many advanced precancerous lesions, with a higher specificity rate.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·DateMay 27, 2013

Scientists narrow global warming range

Researchers used a new method combining observations and climate models to project future warming, finding 63% of uncertainty came from single sources such as climate sensitivity. The study suggests that exceeding 6 degrees warming is unlikely, while exceeding 2 degrees is very likely for business-as-usual emissions.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 26, 2013

Climate researchers discover new rhythm for El Niño

Researchers discovered a 15-month wind pattern that explains El Niño's close ties to the annual cycle. This unusual atmospheric pattern triggers droughts and floods in various regions. The study suggests that improved climate models will improve El Niño forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 26, 2013

New gene discovery for babies born with hole in the heart

Researchers discovered a new gene associated with congenital heart disease, specifically atrial septal defect (ASD), which may help improve genetic counselling and understanding of normal development. The study involved over 2,000 patients and found a strong association between the Msx1 gene and risk of ASD.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 26, 2013
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.

New 1-step process for designer bacteria

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new one-step process called 'clonetegration' that simplifies the production of designer bacteria. This faster method enables multiple rounds of genetic engineering on the same bacteria and simultaneous integration of multiple genes, accelerating therapeutic drug development.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateMay 26, 2013

Finding a genetic cause for severe childhood epilepsies

A large scientific study has discovered two new genes associated with severe seizure disorders in infants and children. The finding will lead to new tests to diagnose these conditions and promises to improve outcomes for affected families.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 26, 2013

RELAX-AHF shows first positive findings in HFpEF patients

The RELAX-AHF trial demonstrated serelaxin's efficacy in relieving dyspnea in HFpEF patients, particularly within the first 24 hours. The VIVIDD trial also showed vildagliptin to be non-inferior to placebo in improving LVEF in HFrEF patients with type 2 diabetes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMay 26, 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.

Stanford researchers identify genetic suspects in sporadic Lou Gehrig's disease

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified mutations in genes that encode chromatin regulators, which may contribute to the development of sporadic ALS. The study found 25 de novo mutations, including five in chromatin regulatory proteins, which could serve as potential therapeutic targets.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 26, 2013