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Science News Archive 2013 - Page 344


Page 344 of 352

Study finds knee replacement surgery may lead to weight gain

A study led by a Virginia Commonwealth University professor found that nearly 30% of knee-replacement surgery patients gained 5% or more of their body weight over five years. This is significantly higher than the 20% gain rate in comparison group without surgery.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 14, 2013

How does your garden glow?

Researchers create mathematical model of plant petals to understand iridescence and its role in attracting pollinators. The study, published in Journal of the Royal Society Interface, provides a first analysis of how petal surface patterns might be produced.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJan 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.

Impaired coordination of brain activity in autism involves local, as well as long-range, signaling

A study at Massachusetts General Hospital finds reduced local and long-range brain activity coordination in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Local connectivity was previously thought to be higher in autistic brains, but the current research reveals a more complex connection between brain regions.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2013

Fox Chase receives grant for community-based patient navigation services

Fox Chase Cancer Center has received a grant to expand its community-based patient navigation services, which will help women with abnormal mammography results obtain follow-up care. The grant also supports 10 breast cancer education programs in the community and provides mammography screening services for under-insured women.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateJan 14, 2013

Strawberries, blueberries may cut heart attack risk in women

A study of 93,600 women aged 25-42 found that consuming three or more servings of blueberries and strawberries weekly reduced heart attack risk by 32% compared to those eating less than once a month. The flavonoids in these berries may help dilate arteries and prevent plaque buildup.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJan 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.

The secret sex life of the penicillin-producing fungus could make it more productive

Researchers have discovered a method to induce sexual reproduction in Penicillium chrysogenum, leading to the development of new strains with improved industrial characteristics. This breakthrough aims to increase penicillin production, making it cheaper to produce, and potentially applicable to other economically important fungi.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2013

Can acupuncture improve exercise performance and post-exercise recovery?

A systematic review of four studies suggests that acupuncture may have a positive effect on exercise performance and recovery after exercise. However, additional trials with larger sample sizes and randomized designs are required to confirm these findings.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateJan 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.

Gene flow from India to Australia about 4,000 years ago

A recent study published in PNAS found evidence of gene flow from India to Australia around 4,230 years ago, challenging the notion that Australia remained isolated between initial colonization and European arrival. This migration also shares a common origin with populations from New Guinea and the Philippines.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 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.

Hospital infection surveillance system flawed, say experts

A new study by De Montfort University reveals worrying inconsistencies in how NHS hospital trusts in England define and report surgical site infections. The findings suggest that published rates do not accurately reflect the true scale of surgical infections, highlighting the need for improved data collection and reporting systems.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·DateJan 14, 2013

Nations that consume a lot of milk... also win a lot of Nobel prizes

A study found that countries consuming large amounts of milk have a higher number of Nobel laureates, possibly due to the boost in vitamin D levels which can enhance cognitive function. However, the relationship may not be solely driven by education, as some nations with high milk consumption also exhibit strong educational systems.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalPractical Neurology·DateJan 14, 2013

January/February 2013 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The adoption of electronic health records by family physicians has doubled since 2005, reaching 68% nationally in 2011. Researchers found that family physicians are adopting EHRs at a higher rate than other office-based physicians and are likely to exceed 80% penetration by 2013 if the current trend continues. Meanwhile, patients' expe...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 14, 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.

AGU journal highlights -- Jan. 14, 2013

Researchers found significant influence of seabird activity on methane and nitrous oxide emissions in the Arctic tundra, contributing to global warming. Meanwhile, a new assessment reveals U.S. cities are less susceptible to water scarcity issues than previously thought.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 14, 2013

NASA sees strength in newborn Tropical Cyclone Emang

Tropical Cyclone Emang developed with strong convection and moderate to heavy rainfall around its center. The storm is expected to slowly intensify over the next couple of days as it travels over open ocean, reaching peak intensity by the end of the week.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 14, 2013

Research improves social care training in Cornwall

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership between Cornwall Council and Plymouth University improved social care training, resulting in the development of a new training programme for staff. The programme incorporates aspects of safeguarding adults, the Mental Capacity Act, and Equality and Diversity legislation.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJan 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.

Salmon runs boom, go bust over centuries

New research reveals that salmon stocks varied greatly on centuries-long time cycles, with fluctuations lasting up to 200 years. The study found that natural variations in salmon abundance were as large as those due to human harvests, and that some regions showed different changes over time.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2013

Less reaction to DTaP vaccine given in kids' thighs than arms

A new study of 1.4 million children found that injecting the DTaP vaccine into the thigh muscle reduces the risk of injection-site reactions by around half compared to the arm. The research supports current recommendations to administer intramuscular vaccinations in the thigh for children under 3 years old.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 14, 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.

Social networks may inflate self-esteem, reduce self-control

Researchers found that users who focus on close friends' updates experience increased self-esteem, but also display less self-control. This can lead to higher body-mass indexes, credit-card debt, and binge eating. Social network use is linked to poorer offline behaviors in individuals with strong social connections.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 14, 2013

Stem-cell approach shows promise for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Stem-cell therapy has been shown to prevent the decline in heart function associated with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The treatment involves transplanting stem cells derived from normal mouse blood vessels into the hearts of mice with DMD, where it prevents dilated cardiomyopathy and promotes angiogenesis.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 14, 2013

Drug overdose now the leading cause of death among homeless adults in Boston

A recent study by Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program found that drug overdose deaths have surpassed HIV as the leading cause of death among homeless adults in Boston, with a significant increase in opioid-related overdoses. The study highlights the dire need to address the epidemic of drug ov...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 14, 2013

Global warming has increased monthly heat records by a factor of 5

A study published in Climatic Change reveals that global warming has increased monthly heat records by a factor of 5 worldwide. The researchers found that 80% of observed monthly records would not have occurred without human influence on climate, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalClimatic Change·DateJan 14, 2013

Graphic warnings on cigarettes effective across demographic groups

Research suggests hard-hitting graphic tobacco warnings may help smokers of all backgrounds quit, with consistent reactions across racial/ethnic and socioeconomic groups. The study found that pictorial warning labels were more effective at highlighting the dangers of smoking and encouraging quitters.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 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.

Amino acid studies may aid battle against citrus greening disease

Researchers at USDA and University of California-Davis discovered distinctive amino acid profiles in oranges grown on HLB-positive or -negative trees. These profiles could serve as an early indicator of the pathogen's presence.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJan 14, 2013

Pill-sized device provides rapid, detailed imaging of esophageal lining

Researchers developed an imaging system enclosed in a capsule about the size of a multivitamin pill that creates detailed, microscopic images of the esophageal wall. The system has several advantages over traditional endoscopy and reveals subsurface structures not easily seen with endoscopy.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 13, 2013

Graphene plasmonics beats the drug cheats

Researchers have developed a graphene plasmonics device that can detect even trace amounts of substances in minutes, revolutionizing drug testing for athletes and detecting viruses. The breakthrough uses artificial materials with topological darkness to achieve high sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 13, 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.

New study reveals gas that triggers ozone destruction

Scientists at the Universities of York and Leeds have made a significant discovery about the cause of ozone destruction over oceans. The research team found that the principal source of iodine oxide can be explained by emissions of hypoiodous acid and molecular iodine.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 13, 2013

Foot soldiers of the immune system

The IFIT protein recognizes foreign viral RNA and blocks viral infections by acting as a defender molecule. The discovery reveals the molecular mechanism behind how IFIT proteins capture only the viral RNA and distinguish it from normal molecules belonging to the host.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2013

Scientists reassemble the backbone of life with a particle accelerator

Researchers use high-energy X-rays and new data extraction protocol to study 360 million year old fossils, shedding light on how early vertebrates moved from water onto land. The discovery reveals a new understanding of the backbone's structure and its functional evolution.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2013

What did our ancestors look like?

A new study uses DNA analysis to reconstruct hair and eye color from ancient human remains, confirming the blue eyes and blond hair of a Polish general. The HIrisPlex system was also able to identify details from medieval samples, including a mysterious woman buried in a 12th-14th century crypt.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInvestigative Genetics·DateJan 13, 2013

Cancer suppressor gene links metabolism with cellular aging

Researchers discovered a class of p53 target genes and regulatory molecules that regulate metabolism and senescence in cells. Malic enzymes, identified as novel pharmaceutical targets for anticancer therapy, may also play a role in the normal process of cellular aging.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 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.

The secrets of a tadpole's tail and the implications for human healing

Scientists at the University of Manchester have discovered that reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a crucial role in tadpole tail regeneration, which could lead to new therapies for human tissue repair. The team found that manipulating ROS levels may be essential to initiate and sustain regeneration processes.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 13, 2013

Credit card debt: Younger people borrow more heavily and repay more slowly

A new study by Ohio State University reveals that younger generations have significantly higher credit card debt and slower repayment rates compared to previous generations. Increasing the minimum monthly payment can lead to faster debt repayment, potentially saving individuals years of financial burden.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateJan 13, 2013

Nearby dwarf galaxy and possible protogalaxy discovered

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered a faint dwarf galaxy and another possible young dwarf galaxy in the constellation Ursa Major. They also found evidence pointing to two already known dwarf galaxies as probable forces that pulled the pinwheel-shaped disk galaxy, M101, out of shape.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJan 11, 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.

Experts aim to redefine healthcare and research ethics

A group of experts, led by Johns Hopkins bioethicists, rejects the traditional ethical paradigm guiding American healthcare and calls for a new framework that integrates clinical research and practice. The proposed 'learning healthcare system' prioritizes patients' needs, respects clinicians' judgment, and promotes continuous learning ...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalHastings Center Report·DateJan 11, 2013

Lady beetle diet influences its effectiveness as biocontrol agent

A study by US Department of Agriculture scientists found that a lady beetle's diet influences its feeding patterns and physiology. The research suggests that plant material provides key nutrients lacking in insect prey diets, making mixed diets healthier for the beetles.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJan 11, 2013

New treatment could combat deadly chemical agents

A new enzyme treatment has been developed to neutralize the effects of lethal chemicals responsible for thousands of deaths each year. The treatment, known as a bioscavenger, was found to protect mice against nerve agents and showed no lasting effects.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 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.

Protein recognition and disorder: A debate

Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) may still have functions without a rigid structure, while protein flexibility is crucial in molecular recognition. The debate highlights the complexity of protein behavior and the need for experiments to determine the true nature of protein recognition.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalF1000 Biology Reports·DateJan 11, 2013

Treating eye diseases with anti-VEGF therapies may have side effects

Researchers found that blocking VEGF-A can decrease intraocular pressure but impair the ciliary body's function. This raises concerns about the long-term effects of aggressive anti-VEGF therapies on eye diseases like wet macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJan 11, 2013

Depressed stroke survivors may face triple the risk of death

Research shows that individuals with depression after a stroke have a tripled risk of dying early and four times the risk of death from stroke. Screening for and treating depression in stroke survivors may be key to addressing these risks, according to study author Amytis Towfighi.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateJan 11, 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.

Specialized messages increase likelihood of male hand washing

A field study found that signs with relatable messages in bathrooms led to an 86% hand-washing rate, compared to 75% without such messages. Researchers believe these messages can significantly impact public health, particularly during cold and flu season.

SourceInternational Communication Association·JournalHuman Communication Research·DateJan 11, 2013

Fusion helped by collision science

Researchers applied Deutsch–Märk and Binary-Encounter-Bethe methods to beryllium and its derivatives. The calculations provide improved understanding of electron impact ionization cross sections (EICS) for the ITER fusion chamber.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJan 11, 2013

UGA discovery promises to improve drugs used to fight cancer, other diseases

Researchers at UGA have discovered a little-studied part of protein kinases that controls their function, promising to help improve existing drugs for life-threatening diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's. The discovery may lead to new therapies and modifications to existing drugs, boosting their effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2013

How to treat heat like light

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel method to manipulate heat by employing engineered materials with nanostructured semiconductor alloy crystals. This approach enables the concentration of heat phonons within a specific frequency range, allowing for control over heat flow similar to light waves.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 11, 2013
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.