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Science News Archive 2013


Page 274 of 352

NREL assembles industry working group to advance solar securitization

The Solar Access to Public Capital (SAPC) working group aims to standardize power purchase agreements and develop robust datasets to assess performance and credit-default risk. This effort is expected to attract additional investors to the solar asset class, potentially lowering the cost of solar energy.

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.

Researchers form new nerve cells – directly in the brain

New technique allows for direct reprogramming of human cells into nerve cells, opening possibilities for treating Parkinson's disease and other conditions. Researchers at Lund University have made a breakthrough in the field of cell therapy by successfully reprogramming skin cells and support cells into nerve cells.

Researchers find novel way plants pass traits to next generation

A recent study by Ohio State University researchers explains how certain plant traits can be passed down through generations without following traditional genetic rules. They discovered an enzyme in corn that targets 'junk DNA' and triggers unexpected changes in gene activity, an example of epigenetics.

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.

Death in young children linked to their mother's poor health

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that young children are more likely to die when their mother is seriously ill, with the highest risk occurring in the months leading up to and following her death. The researchers also discovered a significant increase in child mortality rates if the mother dies of AIDS-related causes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mindfulness improves reading ability, working memory, and task-focus

A study by UC Santa Barbara researchers found that mindfulness training can significantly improve reading comprehension, working memory capacity, and ability to focus. The results suggest that mindfulness can reduce mind-wandering and improve performance in tasks requiring attention.

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.

Brief mindfulness training may boost test scores, working memory

A new study finds that brief mindfulness training can improve standardized test scores and working memory capacity by reducing mind wandering. Participants who received mindfulness training showed a significant improvement in accuracy on the GRE and higher working memory capacity compared to those who received nutrition instruction.

Pining for a beetle genome

The mountain pine beetle's genome has been sequenced, revealing genes involved in tree colonization and potential sex chromosomes. This knowledge could help develop more effective control methods for this devastating pest.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Penn research: Quitting marshmallow test can be a rational decision

New research from University of Pennsylvania psychologists suggests that changing one's mind about delaying gratification can be a rational decision when the timing of the payoff is uncertain. The study found that people tend to overestimate how long they will have to wait, leading to decreased self-control.

Regulation recommendations so that biofuel plants don't become weeds

Researchers at the University of Illinois suggest reforming regulatory lists using a science-based process and assessing potential invasiveness. This could lead to better protection for natural areas against invasive species, but may not threaten the development of new biofuels crops.

Men benefit more than women from having authority on the job

Research by University of Toronto sociologist Scott Schieman found that men have greater levels of managerial authority and associated benefits, including job autonomy and higher earnings. Women, even when holding equal levels of authority, tend to earn less income.

Antibiotic may provide benefit for treatment of respiratory disorder

A randomized controlled trial found that erythromycin significantly reduced pulmonary exacerbations and improved symptoms in patients with non-CF bronchiectasis, but also increased macrolide resistance. The study suggests that low-dose erythromycin may be beneficial for treatment of respiratory disorder in certain patient populations.

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.

Study finds strong genetic component to childhood obesity

A new study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that genetics account for 30% of individual differences in childhood body weight. The research used Genome-wide Complex Trait Analysis to identify genetic variants associated with childhood obesity, providing insights into the 'missing heritability' problem.

Endangered lemurs' genomes sequenced

The complete genomes of three aye-aye lemur populations in Madagascar have been sequenced, revealing genetic diversity and historical separation. The research aims to prioritize conservation efforts for these critically endangered species, which are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation.

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.

Research yields significant insights into a common form of autism

Researchers identify key findings in a large-scale study of individuals with int dup(15), including maternal and paternal duplications. The study found elevated levels of GABA and previously unknown sleep problems in affected subjects, providing significant insights into the disorder.

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.

Wastewater injection spurred biggest earthquake yet, says study

A new study links a magnitude 5.7 earthquake in central Oklahoma to wastewater injection, destroying homes and causing widespread damage. The researchers found that the pressure increase triggered by wastewater injection led to the largest earthquake ever recorded in Oklahoma.

Protein-rich breakfasts prevent unhealthy snacking in the evening

A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming a high-protein breakfast significantly improves appetite control and reduces unhealthy snacking in young adults. Eating a protein-rich breakfast led to increased fullness and reduced brain activity controlling food cravings.

Trees used to create recyclable, efficient solar cell

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and Purdue University developed efficient solar cells using natural substrates derived from trees, enabling quick recycling in water. The organic solar cells reach a power conversion efficiency of 2.7 percent, paving the way for a truly recyclable and sustainable solar cell technology.

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.

Mice show innate ability to vocalize

Researchers found that mice do not need to learn to vocalize and can produce the same suite of ultrasonic sounds regardless of whether they are deaf or hearing. This discovery points the way to a genetic tool for studying speech and its disorders, shifting focus from learning to genetic mechanisms.

Key find for treating wastewater on World Water Day

A new membrane developed by researchers at Wits University can effectively separate waste from water, making it suitable for treating pollutants in various processes. The technology has the potential to filter pure water from wastewater produced during mining, oil and gas exploration, and nuclear activities.

Mountain pine beetle genome decoded

The mountain pine beetle genome has been sequenced to understand its behavior and adaptability, revealing large genetic variation among individuals. The study also identified genes involved in detoxifying defense compounds and degrading plant cell walls, which could inform future management strategies.

MRI shows brain abnormalities in migraine patients

Research suggests that migraines are related to brain abnormalities present at birth and others that develop over time. Cortical thickness and surface area abnormalities were found in regions related to pain processing, with minimal overlap between the two types of abnormalities.

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.

DNA says lemur lookalikes are 2 new species

Two new species of mouse lemurs have been identified by Duke University scientists, one named Anosy mouse lemur and the other Marohita mouse lemur. The genetic analysis reveals that these species are distinct and do not interbreed with other recognized mouse lemur species.

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.

Developing our sense of smell

Researchers at Caltech have found that neural-crest stem cells differentiate into microvillous neurons, which sense pheromones, and are distinct from ciliated neurons that detect volatile scents. The discovery sheds light on how olfactory neurons form and may lead to new treatments for conditions like anosmia.

Exploring the cause of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy

Researchers characterized SUDEP in a mouse model of Dravet Syndrome and found that a prolonged slowing of the heart beat preceded SUDEP. Treatment with certain drugs reduced the incidence of SUDEP, suggesting mortality results from seizure-related parasympathetic hyperactivity.

Mathematical butterflies provide insight into how insects fly

A mathematical model of a butterfly's flight revealed that the insect uses swirling vortices to provide lift, but also experiences turbulent airflow. The study found that the pitching angle of the thorax is crucial for controlled periodic flight, allowing butterflies to sense and adjust their motion to maintain stability.

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.

Geiger Gibson Program recognizes 8 emerging leaders at annual symposium

The Geiger Gibson Program in Community Health Policy has selected eight young Emerging Leaders for their outstanding policy and leadership achievements. The award highlights the future leaders of community health centers, recognizing commitment, motivation, professional achievement, and leadership qualities.

Lymphatic vasculature: A cholesterol removal system

Researchers have found that the lymphatic system is crucial for removing cholesterol from peripheral tissues, including artery walls. The study suggests that therapies supporting lymphatic transport could enhance cholesterol clearance and potentially treat atherosclerotic vascular disease.

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.

Ephemeral vacuum particles induce speed-of-light fluctuations

Recent studies suggest that the speed of light may fluctuate due to ephemeral vacuum particles, which could be testable with ultra-fast lasers. Researchers propose that physical constants like speed of light are indications of total elementary particles in nature.

Urban vegetation deters crime in Philadelphia

A Temple University study found that well-maintained urban vegetation can lower crime rates, particularly for robberies and assaults, by encouraging social interaction and community supervision. The presence of grass, trees, and shrubs is associated with reduced crime rates in Philadelphia.