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Science News Archive 2013 - Page 313


Page 313 of 352

Slithering towards extinction

A new study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 reptiles are struggling to survive, with many species highly specialized and sensitive to environmental changes. The findings highlight the urgent need for conservation action to address habitat loss, hunting, and other threats, particularly in tropical regions.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 14, 2013

The world's most sensitive plasmon resonance sensor inspired by ancient Roman cup

Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a novel, ultra-sensitive tool for chemical, DNA, and protein analysis using nanoscale Lycurgus cup arrays. The sensor boasts 100 times better sensitivity than existing devices, enabling low-cost, simple, and sensitive detection methods.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateFeb 14, 2013

Noncoding RNAs offer huge therapeutic and diagnostic potential

Researchers have discovered a vast potential for noncoding RNAs to be used as therapeutic and diagnostic tools. Long noncoding RNAs play significant roles in various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and other conditions. The emerging concept of microRNAs functioning as hormones has also led to new avenues for disease treatment.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateFeb 14, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers invent 'acoustic-assisted' magnetic information storage

Electrical engineers have discovered a way to use high-frequency sound waves to enhance magnetic storage, offering a new approach to improve data storage. The technology uses ultrasound to create elasticity in magnetic materials, allowing for reliable data storage without concerns around heating.

SourceOregon State University·DateFeb 14, 2013

Defect in immune memory may cause repeat bladder infections

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center identified a defect in bladder immune memory that hampers a timely attack against bacterial infections. The study found that mast cells produce an immune-suppressing molecule, leading to a lack of antibody response and stifling immune memory.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalImmunity·DateFeb 14, 2013

Study: Behavioral therapy for children with autism can impact brain function

Researchers found increased activation in brain regions utilized by typically developing kids after four months of Pivotal Response Treatment. This suggests improved social engagement and processing of low-level social stimuli. The study's findings have implications for early intervention and potential long-term benefits.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateFeb 14, 2013

Humans and chimps share genetic strategy in battle against pathogens

Researchers have found six regions of the genome where humans and chimpanzees share identical genetic variants, suggesting that these traits date back to a common ancestor. This study highlights the importance of balancing selection in maintaining genetic variation and fending off infectious disease.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2013

The role of radical prostatectomy in patients with prostate cancer

A recent study found that radical prostatectomy (RP) lowers prostate cancer deaths in a subgroup of patients with a significant absolute mortality difference. However, another trial showed non-statistically significant results, raising questions about the impact of more frequent screening detection.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 14, 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 quantum dot energy harvester

A new type of nanoscale engine uses quantum dots to convert waste heat into electrical power, potentially making microcircuits more efficient. The system exploits resonant tunneling and can generate a significant amount of power depending on the temperature difference across the energy harvester.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review B·DateFeb 14, 2013

Bilingual babies know their grammar by 7 months

Infants in bilingual environments use pitch and duration cues to discriminate between languages, such as English and Japanese, with opposite word orders. Babies as young as seven months can begin to learn these differences and develop new strategies for language separation.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2013

Self-objectification may inhibit women's social activism

New research suggests that self-objectification can reduce women's motivation to challenge the gender status quo and participate in social action. This phenomenon is linked to increased justification of the gender status quo, leading to reduced willingness to engage in activism.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 14, 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.

Accelerated protons confirm origin of cosmic rays

A new study offers conclusive evidence that cosmic ray protons within our galaxy are accelerated in the shock waves produced by supernovae. Researchers detected the spectral cutoff in the gamma ray spectrum due to the decay of neutral pions, connecting gamma rays to accelerated protons.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2013

Mood-modifying drugs for humans also alter fish behavior

A study by Umeå University researchers found that even small amounts of anxiety-moderating drugs like Oxazepam can change the behavior and feeding rates of wild European perch. The fish became bolder, less social, and ate faster after exposure to the drug.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2013

Smoking bans linked with 'successive reductions' in preterm birth

A study of 606,877 live births in Belgium found that smoking bans led to a reduction in the risk of preterm birth, with decreases evident after each phase of legislation. The findings suggest that smoking bans have public health benefits from early life and support stricter smoke-free policies.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 14, 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.

Math helps detect gang-related crime and better allocate police resources

Researchers used police department records to determine gang memberships based on social and geographical information, identifying hotspots and clusters of individuals with similar behavior. The study showed that incorporating both social and geographic distance in models of gang violence provides more comprehensive analysis.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateFeb 14, 2013

Losing hope of a good night's sleep is risk factor for suicide

A new study finds that losing hope for a good night's sleep increases the risk of suicidal thoughts, independent of other types of hopelessness. The study suggests that addressing insomnia and negative thoughts about sleep can help prevent suicidal behavior.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2013

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...

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature·DateFeb 14, 2013
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.

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 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.

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.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateFeb 14, 2013

Obesity coverage in black newspapers is mostly negative, MU study finds

A new study reveals that American black newspapers predominantly report on obesity in a negative light, emphasizing individual responsibility rather than socio-economic factors. This framing may discourage African Americans from taking action to address their weight issues.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateFeb 14, 2013

A dual look at photosystem II using the world's most powerful X-ray laser

Berkeley Lab and SLAC researchers demonstrate simultaneous diffraction/spectroscopy of metalloenzymes using ultrafast, intensely bright X-ray pulses. The study provides critical snapshots of the photosystem II machinery's design principles for artificial light-driven catalysts.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceDuke University·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateFeb 14, 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.

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.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateFeb 14, 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.

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.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceEcoHealth Alliance·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Bionic Engineering·DateFeb 14, 2013
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.

Prevention efforts focused on youth reduce prescription abuse into adulthood

Community-based prevention programs implemented during middle school years significantly reduced prescription medication abuse among young adults. The study found reductions of 20-65% compared to control groups, with interventions also shown to reduce other substance use and problem behaviors.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 14, 2013

Scientists identify new therapeutic target for coronary heart disease

Scientists have discovered a crucial role of ADAMTS7 enzyme in building up cells in coronary arteries, contributing to the development of coronary heart disease. The study found that a specific gene variant reduces risk by 50% and slows down plaque growth.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 14, 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.

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 14, 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.

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.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Cellular Physiology·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·JournalAntiviral Therapy·DateFeb 14, 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.

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.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2013

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.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 14, 2013