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Science News Archive 2013 - Page 325


Page 325 of 352

Osaka Basin map: Identifies high-rise buildings at risk from quakes

A new map created by Japanese researchers helps identify high-rise buildings in the Osaka Basin vulnerable to long-period strong ground motions that last minutes. The map provides useful information for engineers to design earthquake-resistant buildings.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateFeb 4, 2013

UCLA Pediatric Medical Home to study new ways to reduce healthcare costs

Researchers at UCLA's Pediatric Medical Home will study ways to reduce preventable hospital admissions and emergency room use among children with medically complex illness, aiming to decrease healthcare expenditures. The study will analyze root causes of preventable hospitalizations and design cost-saving strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

New study shows that gases work with particles to promote cloud formation

Researchers at Columbia University and Georgia Institute of Technology found that certain volatile organic gases can enhance aerosol activity, promoting cloud droplet formation. This discovery will improve climate modeling by incorporating gas-phase surfactants into cloud formation models.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

NASA sees the falling of Cyclone Felleng

Cyclone Felleng formed over the Mozambique Channel and transitioned into a cold core low pressure area, with NASA's TRMM satellite capturing its rainfall rates. The storm dissipated in the next couple of days as it moved south-southeast in the open waters of the Southern Indian Ocean.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 4, 2013

Finding the way to memory

A new study from McGill University reveals that the DCC receptor is essential for normal synaptic function and plasticity, leading to progressive degeneration of synapses and defects in memory formation. The absence of DCC leads to memory loss similar to Dr. Brenda Milner's famous subject HM.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 4, 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.

Physicians' roles on the front line of climate change

Climate change affects human health, prompting physicians to take action; doctors can lobby governments, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and clinical waste. Immediate wise action is necessary to mitigate disastrous consequences.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 4, 2013

Human brain is divided on fear and panic

Researchers have identified multiple brain regions responsible for generating fear and panic, including the amygdala, brainstem, diencephalon, and insular cortex. The findings suggest that an intact amygdala normally inhibits panic, and its absence can lead to anxiety-related conditions.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 4, 2013

Research suggests meerkat predator-scanning behaviour is altruistic

Research suggests that meerkat predator-scanning behaviour is driven by a desire to protect the group rather than personal safety. When young pups are present, adult meerkats exhibit increased vigilance and sentinel behaviour, indicating a strong sense of cooperation and altruism.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateFeb 4, 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.

Chemical reaction keeps stroke-damaged brain from repairing itself

Researchers discovered nitric oxide inhibits ERK1/2 signaling pathway, shutting down brain's ability to self-repair after stroke. The study found that excessive nitric oxide production contributes to the severity of stroke and other neurological disorders.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Defying the laws of Mendelian inheritance

Researchers found that Arabidopsis thaliana plants exhibit genetic traits from older generations, contradicting Mendelian inheritance. New experiments support these findings, providing evidence for novel DNA-based genetic phenomena and implications for plant biology and agriculture.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalF1000Research·DateFeb 4, 2013

Study finds it actually is better (and healthier) to give than to receive

Researchers found that providing tangible assistance to others significantly reduced mortality rates among the helpers, buffering the negative effects of stress. The study's findings contradict previous research, which failed to establish similar benefits for recipients of social support.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 4, 2013

Researchers develop Rx for deafness, impaired balance in mouse model of Usher syndrome

A new therapy called an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) has been developed by researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center, which partially corrects gene and protein expression and rescues hearing and balance in a mouse model of Usher syndrome. This breakthrough suggests the potential for treating deafness and balance disorders.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Mini stroke symptoms quickly fade, but patients remain at risk

A study published in Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics found that 10-15% of people experiencing transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) will suffer full strokes within three months. Rapid evaluation and treatment can reduce the risk of subsequent strokes by up to 80%.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalExpert Review of Neurotherapeutics·DateFeb 4, 2013

Monell scientists identify elusive taste stem cells

Researchers at Monell Chemical Senses Center have identified progenitor cells in taste tissue that can differentiate into functional taste cells, potentially helping treat clinical taste dysfunction. The discovery opens up new areas for studying taste cell renewal and contributes to stem cell biology.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalStem Cells·DateFeb 4, 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.

New kind of extinct flying reptile discovered by scientists

A new kind of pterosaur, Eurazhdarcho langendorfensis, has been identified by scientists from the Transylvanian Museum Society, University of Southampton, and Museau Nacional. The fossilized bones are approximately 68 million years old and belong to the azhdarchids group.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2013

The impressive aerial maneuvers of the pea aphid

Researchers found that pea aphids can land upright on their feet, using passive rotation to right themselves during free fall. The insects' ability to adapt to extreme situations has been studied in detail and published in Current Biology.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 4, 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.

Amyloid imaging shows promise for detecting cardiac amyloidosis

A new PET test using 11C-PIB offers a non-invasive method to visualize amyloid deposits in the heart, providing valuable information for disease prognosis and treatment monitoring. The study demonstrated positive uptake of 11C-PIB in patients with cardiac amyloidosis.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

20 hours of TV a week almost halves sperm count

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that watching TV for more than 20 hours a week can almost halve sperm count, while exercising 15 or more hours a week can improve it by 73%. Moderate to vigorous exercise also has a positive impact on semen quality.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Hoodoos -- key to earthquakes?

Researchers studied two hoodoos in Red Rock Canyon to estimate the force necessary to break sandstone shafts, shedding light on ground motion during recent earthquakes. The study suggests median or low-level ground motion despite large quakes in the area, providing valuable constraints for probabilistic seismic hazard assessments.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateFeb 4, 2013

New criteria for automated preschool vision screening

The American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus has revised its guidelines for automated preschool vision screening, focusing on detecting amblyopia risk factors in young children. The new criteria include separate thresholds for different age groups, lower referral rates for young children, and the use of tradition...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus·DateFeb 4, 2013

JoVE expands scientific video publication into chemistry

JoVE's new Chemistry section publishes a novel experimental approach to study antifreeze proteins, showcasing the potential for these proteins in cryopreservation and tissue preservation. By visualizing dynamic processes, JoVE aims to facilitate reproducible chemistry research.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateFeb 4, 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.

Chili peppers spark discovery

Researchers at Washington State University have made a breakthrough in repairing damaged brain cells using the active compound of chili peppers. The discovery has potential to provide relief for concussions and other health effects seen in athletes and head-injury victims.

SourceWashington State University·DateFeb 4, 2013

MU scientists build harness for powerful radiation cancer therapy

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a gold nanoparticle that can transport alpha particles directly to small cancer tumors, reducing damage to healthy organs. The nanoparticle design enables researchers to keep more than 80% of the element inside for extended periods.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2013

Can cancer be turned against itself?

Researchers found that melanoma cells can transfer proteins to the immune system, allowing it to gather crucial intelligence and develop cytokines to kill cancer cells. This process, called positive feedback loop, tips the scales in favor of the immune cells.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 4, 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.

New effort to find why replacement hips and knees go bad

A Case Western Reserve University researcher is creating ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with embedded magnetic nanoparticles to monitor degradation and wear. The goal is to make implants more resistant to the environment inside the body.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateFeb 4, 2013

Into the quantum Internet at the speed of light

A research team at the University of Innsbruck has successfully transferred quantum information from an atom to a single photon, paving the way for the construction of a quantum internet. This breakthrough enables the transfer of quantum information over optical channels between quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 4, 2013

Mutations in ASXL3 cause problems similar to Bohring-Opitz syndrome

Researchers discovered a novel syndrome caused by mutations in the ASXL3 gene, characterized by non-specific symptoms and intellectual disability. The study provides a molecular definition of this condition, which is difficult to distinguish from Bohring-Opitz syndrome, and highlights the importance of sharing genomic data.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

Vitamin C supplements linked to kidney stones

A large population-based study of men found that those taking vitamin C supplements are twice as likely to develop kidney stones as non-supplement users. The risk increased with the frequency of supplement use. Conversely, multivitamin use was not associated with an increased risk of kidney stones.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Tuberculosis in Nunavut can be controlled

A combined strategy of door-to-door visits and education campaigns is proposed to combat TB in Nunavut. The territory's TB rate is 66 times higher than the general Canadian population, but control can be achieved through a community approach combined with clear performance targets.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 4, 2013

A little tag with a large effect

A recent study found that the epigenetic marker 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) plays a vital role in the selective expression of genes, particularly in healthy brain cells. The study also discovered that changes in 5hmC distribution are associated with gene silencing and may contribute to cancer development.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalCell·DateFeb 4, 2013

Study finds incentive price for reducing HIV risk in Mexico

A study found that conditional cash transfer programs can improve behavior among gay men and male sex workers in Mexico City. Gay men would participate at a rate of over 75% if offered $7-8.75/month, while male sex workers would participate for significantly less, $156/year.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe European Journal of Health Economics·DateFeb 4, 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.

Plant scientists at CSHL demonstrate new means of boosting maize yields

A team of plant geneticists successfully demonstrated that weakening the FEA2 gene can increase meristem size and lead to more rows and kernels in maize plants. This research has significant implications for increasing yields of essential food crops as the global population is projected to reach 8-9 billion by mid-century.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 3, 2013

Pioneering research helps to unravel the brain's vision secrets

A new study identified two neighboring areas of the cortex as processing different types of visual information independently. The researchers used magnetic fields to disrupt neural activity, revealing that one area plays a causal role in processing orientation, while another underpins shape recognition based on curvature differences.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 3, 2013

DNA reveals mating patterns of critically endangered sea turtle

Researchers have discovered that female hawksbill turtles mate at the beginning of the season and store sperm for up to 75 days, laying multiple nests on beaches. The study also found that these turtles are mainly monogamous, with females pairing up with a single male throughout the breeding season.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 3, 2013

Recreating natural complex gene regulation

Researchers developed a system to artificially simulate natural complex interactions between proteins that regulate genes, allowing for precise control over gene activation. This breakthrough enables scientists to better understand human gene regulation and develop new gene-based therapies.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 3, 2013
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.

Prescription overdose rate reaches epidemic levels in NYC

A recent study found that the prescription opioid overdose rate in NYC increased seven-fold between 1990 and 2006, with fatalities concentrated among white residents. The study suggests a different public health approach is needed for this demographic, as their profile differs from heroin consumers.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 3, 2013

Growth factor aids stem cell regeneration after radiation damage

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found that epidermal growth factor speeds the recovery of blood-making stem cells after exposure to radiation. The finding could lead to new treatments for cancer patients and those affected by dirty bombs or nuclear disasters.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Immune cell 'survival' gene key to better myeloma treatments

The discovery of the Mcl-1 gene's critical role in keeping antibody-producing cells alive could lead to better treatments for diseases like myeloma and chronic immune disorders. Without this gene, plasma cells die within two days.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 3, 2013

Researchers discover mutations linked to relapse of childhood leukemia

A recent study has identified specific genetic mutations that lead to drug resistance and relapse in childhood leukemia. Researchers found 20 relapse-specific mutations, including a mutation in the NT5C2 gene, which may help doctors detect early signs of relapse and switch treatment strategies.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 3, 2013

Novel radiation therapy method shortens prostate cancer treatment time

A new radiation therapy method using volume-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) has been shown to significantly reduce prostate cancer treatment time by approximately 14%. The study found that VMAT patients had shorter average room times, with some patients experiencing similar treatment times as those using gold-marker tracking.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateFeb 1, 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.

Nurses at forefront of genomics in health care

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) emphasizes the importance of genomic knowledge for nursing care, highlighting its relevance to advancing patient care. Genomic studies published in the Journal of Nursing Scholarship provide insights on genetic applications in nursing practice, including cancer risk assessment and prevention.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Nursing Scholarship·DateFeb 1, 2013