Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2013 - Page 329


Page 329 of 352

NSF selects OSU to lead project rejuvenating US research fleet

Oregon State University will lead a $290 million project to design and build three new coastal research vessels, bolstering the US marine science research capabilities. The vessels will be designed for flexibility and environmental sustainability, addressing critical ocean issues such as climate change and marine ecosystems.

SourceOregon State University·DateJan 30, 2013

Stanford experiment shows that virtual superpowers encourage real-world empathy

Researchers at Stanford University found that playing Superman-like flight in a virtual reality simulation increased altruistic behavior in individuals. In contrast, helicopter-riding participants took longer to offer help. The study suggests designing games that promote empathy and altruism could have real-world benefits.

SourceStanford University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Petri dish lens' gives hope for new eye treatments

Researchers at Monash University successfully derived and purified lens epithelium, paving the way for testing new drugs on human tissue. The breakthrough could lead to cures for congenital sight impairment caused by lens damage, particularly in developing countries.

SourceMonash University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013

New research shows complexity of global warming

A new study reveals that global warming from greenhouse gases has a weaker impact on global precipitation compared to solar heating. The researchers found that the global rainfall rate increased by about 40% less during the present-day warming period than during past warming phases, despite higher temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 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.

How does fibrosis occur in Crohn's disease?

Research reveals that a protein called IL-13 plays a crucial role in the development of fibrosis in Crohn's disease. The study found that increased levels of IL-13 lead to excessive collagen synthesis and tissue hardening, causing bowel narrowing and loss of mobility.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers develop model for identifying habitable zones around star

A Penn State research team has developed a new model to determine whether discovered planets can support liquid water and life. The updated model suggests that habitable zones are farther away from stars than previously thought, potentially reclassifying some previously believed habitable planets as non-habitable.

SourcePenn State·DateJan 30, 2013

Understanding the historical probability of drought

Researchers from Oklahoma State University created a reliable 'calendar' of seasonal drought patterns that can help farmers avoid costly losses to drought conditions. By considering soil properties and water deficits, the study found that traditional atmospheric measurements underestimated drought probabilities.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJan 30, 2013

Chronic kidney disease increases risk of death for both women and men

A new study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found chronic kidney disease is associated with a higher risk of death and end-stage renal disease for both women and men. The study analyzed data from over 2 million participants worldwide, including a diverse population of women making up 54% of the cohort.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateJan 30, 2013

Arunachal contributes in detecting stem cells where dormant TB bacteria hide

Researchers from Arunachal Pradesh and the Research Institute of World's Ancient Traditions Cultures and Heritage successfully isolated dormant TB bacteria from CD271+ stem cells in bone marrow. The study provides evidence that TB bacteria hide in these stem cells to escape drug treatment, making it difficult to eradicate the disease.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 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.

Confirmed: How plant communities endure stress

A global meta-analysis supports the Stress Gradient Hypothesis, showing that plant interactions become more influential in positive ways when ecosystems face threats like drought. The study found that as stress increases, negative interactions weaken, while mutual support strengthens across various plant types and conditions.

SourceBrown University·JournalEcology Letters·DateJan 30, 2013

Risk of unwarranted pregnancies with morning after pill conscience clauses

Pharmacists warn that morning after pill conscience clauses can lead to unwanted pregnancies and undermine the principle of universal healthcare in the NHS. The current 'fudge' approach, allowing pharmacists to opt out on moral or religious grounds, is not morally defensible or legally feasible.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateJan 30, 2013
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Female deer take control during the mating season

A new study reveals that female fallow deer actively select their mates, choosing up to 12% to mate with multiple males each year. The research suggests that polyandry may ensure successful pregnancy by favoring older or more experienced males.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJan 30, 2013

Research unlocks mystery surrounding the harnessing of fusion energy

A multi-institutional team has discovered how ultra-thin lithium films on graphite walls control plasma behavior in nuclear fusion devices. The study reveals that oxygen plays a key role in bonding deuterium atoms, while lithium brings it to the surface.

SourceNational Institute for Computational Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 30, 2013

Obesity may increase risk of MS in children and teens

A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that obesity may increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) in children and teenage girls. The research, which analyzed data from over 913,000 children, found a significant association between obesity and MS in girls, but not in boys.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 30, 2013

Hit by 2 hammers

Researchers identify new gene associated with Hirschprung Disease and demonstrate how deficiencies in two candidate genes synergize to halt gut nervous system formation. Understanding this genetic basis may lead to better diagnostics and treatment for the condition.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 30, 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.

Study finds little progress in participation of early-career RNs in hospital QI

A study published in the Journal of Nursing Care Quality found that early-career registered nurses (RNs) are underutilized in hospital quality improvement efforts. The research team recommends strategies such as self-directed online modules, mentoring, and better data systems to optimize RN engagement.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Nursing Care Quality·DateJan 30, 2013

A new genre of 'intelligent' micro- and nanomotors

Researchers have successfully created single-molecule 'intelligent' motors powered by common enzymes, catalase and urease. These motors can generate force and move in specific directions, even at the nanoscale, with implications for applications in medicine, engineering, and more.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 30, 2013

Scientists may have received millions in duplicate funding

Researchers analyzed over 858,717 grant and contract summaries to identify potential instances of duplicate funding. They found strong evidence that tens of millions of dollars may have been spent on grants where at least a portion was already being funded.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 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.

The pros and cons of 'ecolabels' in cleaning products

The use of ecolabels in cleaning products is a topic of debate, with supporters arguing they inform consumers about product sustainability, while opponents claim they can be confusing. The American Chemical Society explores the pros and cons of these environmental certification seals in its latest cover story.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 30, 2013

In beef production, cow-calf phase contributes most greenhouse gases

A new study estimates that the cow-calf phase produces the greatest greenhouse gas emissions during beef production, with methane emissions from a roughage diet. This finding highlights the importance of managing cattle feed and nutrition to reduce carbon footprint.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJan 30, 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.

Tuberculosis may lurk in bone marrow stem cells of infected patients, Stanford researchers say

Scientists at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered that tuberculosis bacteria can infiltrate and settle in mesenchymal stem cells in the bone marrow. This finding raises the possibility that other infectious agents may employ similar tactics, providing a new potential target for treatment. The research suggests that u...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 30, 2013

Rejuvenation of the Southern Appalachians

New research reveals that topographic relief in the southern Appalachians increased by over 150% since the Miocene era, suggesting a link to post-orogenic regional uplift. The findings contradict previous theories attributing landscape rejuvenation to climate change or erosion, instead supporting an epeirogenic uplift-driven explanation.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateJan 30, 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.

Aging cells lose their grip on DNA rogues

Brown University researchers discovered that as cells age, their ability to defend against parasitic strands of genetic material called transposable elements deteriorates. This breakdown allows the newly freed transposons to take full advantage, potentially leading to a decline in cell function and health.

SourceBrown University·JournalAging Cell·DateJan 30, 2013

3D microchip created

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new type of microchip that allows information to travel in three dimensions. The innovation uses spintronic technology and enables additional storage capacity on chips by spreading data across multiple layers.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers improve medical units to reduce nursing fatigue, cut costs

A new study by Cornell University researchers offers a spatial solution to boost nurses' efficiency through better design. The research analyzed floor plans and work patterns in five medical-surgical units at US hospitals and found opportunities to improve caregiver workflow.

SourceCornell University·JournalHERD Health Environments Research & Design Journal·DateJan 30, 2013

Pioneering study shows that local volunteers increase early breast cancer detection rates in a low-income rural area

A pioneering study published in The Lancet Oncology found that local volunteers increased early breast cancer detection rates in a low-income rural area. The study showed that 70% of women screened were diagnosed with benign lesions or successfully treated for breast cancer, significantly improving long-term survival chances.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJan 30, 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.

How to be a social climber

Researchers discovered that all individuals are social climbers, as they seek to enhance their social importance through connections with central nodes. In hierarchical societies, this inclination leads to a clear identification of central nodes, resulting in an increasing number of social climbers.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalJournal of Statistical Physics·DateJan 30, 2013

Vultures foraging far and wide face a poisonous future

A study of white-backed vulture movements across southern Africa reveals they prefer to forage on private farmland, risking exposure to poisonous veterinary drugs. The birds travel long distances to find food, with some individuals crossing multiple country borders in search of sustenance.

SourceDurham University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Are gender and ethnicity risk factors for metabolic syndrome in children?

A systematic review of medical literature on metabolic syndrome in children found that obesity, male sex, and increasing age are significant risk factors. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome increased substantially when comparing groups of overweight or obese children to whole populations of youths.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMetabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders·DateJan 30, 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.

Empathy and age

A study of over 75,000 adults found that late middle-aged adults, particularly women, report higher levels of emotional reactivity and perspective-taking. This inverted U-shaped pattern suggests a potential link between age-related cognitive changes and empathy.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJan 30, 2013

Virtual superheroes more helpful in real world too

A study published in PLOS ONE found that playing virtual reality games with superpowers increases helpful behavior in the real world. Participants who played as superheroes were more likely to help others after the game compared to those who passedively completed tasks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Light yet safe contender for city streets

The Visio.M project aims to develop a safe and efficient electric vehicle with a lightweight carbon fiber body structure. The design incorporates innovative materials and technologies, such as a monocoque chassis and ultra-lightweight gears, while maintaining the highest level of safety protection.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateJan 30, 2013

UNC scientists unveil a superbug's secret to antibiotic resistance

Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill identified a bacterial enzyme that enables vancomycin resistance to spread among Staphylococcus aureus strains. They also discovered a potential solution by designing a synthetic molecule that blocks the transfer of resistance genes, offering hope for developing effective therapies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 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.

Sam Houston State tests prison education programs

The study found that offenders who participated in Windham educational programs generally had lower re-incarceration rates and higher earnings. Participants achieved significantly higher reading, math, and language scores than non-program participants.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJan 30, 2013

Mixed forest provides beneficial effects

A new study by researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences found that mixed forests provide positive relationships to six different ecosystem services. The study suggests that promoting more varieties of trees may increase these services, including tree growth, carbon sequestration, and...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 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.

Patient satisfaction leads to better HIV care

A study by Baylor College of Medicine found that patient satisfaction with care is associated with higher adherence to antiretroviral therapy and retention in HIV care. Patients who were more satisfied had better clinical outcomes, including improved survival rates.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Rutgers physics professors find new order in quantum electronic material

Rutgers physics professors have discovered a new type of order in an exotic uranium-based material, which may lead to enhanced computer displays and data storage systems. The 'hastatic' order could also enable the creation of more powerful superconducting magnets for medical imaging and high-speed transportation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

Doubt cast on Sir Bernard Lovell's brainwashing

A recent article casts doubt on Sir Bernard Lovell's alleged brainwashing by the Soviets during a Cold War visit. According to Lovell's son Bryan, the reason for his father's illness may have been exhaustion rather than Soviet mind control.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers see more West Nile virus in orchards and vineyards

Researchers have discovered a link between West Nile virus in mosquitoes and birds, as well as the insects' ability to spread the virus to horses and people. Habitats with high disease prevalence in horses and birds also have more mosquitoes and certain bird species, which contribute to the transmission of the virus.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Discrepant analyses of industry-sponsored clinical trials

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found significant discrepancies between internal company documents and published trial reports in industry-sponsored clinical trials. The researchers highlighted the need for standardizing definitions of analysis types, making full trial protocols and data publicly available, and ensuring regul...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 29, 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.

New study will predict how trees will adapt to rapid climate change

Researchers will analyze DNA of hundreds of balsam poplar trees to identify genes responsible for adaptation traits, combining with satellite maps and modeling techniques to predict regions at risk. This knowledge will help prioritize conservation efforts and understand the health of forests under changing climates.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateJan 29, 2013

Indoor air puts Chinese women nonsmokers at risk

A University at Buffalo study found that indoor air pollution contributes significantly to lung cancer risk in Chinese women, despite low smoking rates. The research measured particulate matter levels inside homes and linked them to lung cancer incidence, highlighting the need for improved ventilation systems and public education.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateJan 29, 2013