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Science News Archive 2013 - Page 350


Page 350 of 352

Dark matter made visible before the final cut

A new study reveals snippets of information in dark matter that can alter the way a gene is assembled. This discovery opens doors to studying the dark matter of genes and further understanding how mutations or polymorphisms affect gene functions.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 7, 2013

Can blood pressure drugs reduce the risk of dementia?

A study found that beta blocker medications reduced brain abnormalities associated with Alzheimer's disease and microinfarcts in elderly Japanese-American men. The results suggest that beta blockers may delay or prevent dementia in people with high blood pressure, particularly those taking the medication alone.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateJan 7, 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.

The reason we lose at games

Scientists found complex games like chess and Go are hard for humans to master, leading to irrational decision-making. The research has implications for financial markets, where equilibrium theory often fails to predict market behavior accurately.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2013

HPV-associated cancer incidence rates point to needed efforts to increase HPV vaccination coverage

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that HPV-associated cancer incidence rates have increased, highlighting the need for increased HPV vaccination coverage. Nationally, 32% of females aged 13-17 years had received three doses of the HPV vaccine in 2010.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 7, 2013

Molecular '2-way radio' directs nerve cell branching and connectivity

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a complex signaling system that directs nerve cell branching and connectivity, using protein signals like Sema-1a to coordinate axon travel patterns. This study has broad implications for human disease research, particularly in understanding muscle control and nerve disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateJan 7, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cognitive deficits from concussions still present after 2 months

Researchers found that high school athletes experienced compromised focus and task-switching abilities for up to two months after brain concussions. The study's findings suggest that athletes may need longer recovery periods than current practices dictate to minimize the risk of subsequent concussions.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJan 7, 2013

Breastfeeding tips women share intrigue doctors

A survey of lactation consultants found that 69% reported hearing of folk remedies and 65% recommended at least one. These remedies include cabbage leaves to ease pain and oatmeal to increase milk production. However, there is little empirical evidence to support their use.

SourceMediaSource·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateJan 7, 2013

Obese moms risk having babies with low vitamin D

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that obese mothers pass on insufficient vitamin D to their babies, leading to lower levels in newborns. The study also suggests that obese women may need increased vitamin D supplementation to provide sufficient levels for their babies during pregnancy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 7, 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.

Most-used diabetes drug works in different way than previously thought

A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered that metformin suppresses glucagon's ability to generate a signaling molecule, pointing to new drug targets. This finding could lead to improved diabetes treatments with reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 2013

Study reveals ordinary glass's extraordinary properties

Ultrastable glasses have been produced in days or hours with properties matching those of thousands-year-old materials. These advancements could lead to stronger metals and faster-acting pharmaceuticals., Computer simulations confirmed the findings, revealing a correlation between molecular structure and physical properties.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 6, 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.

A new phase in reading photons

A new JQI photodetector uses an adaptive network of detectors with feedback to read quantum information with minimal uncertainty. By combining multiple stages and using phase reference waves, the system can beat the standard quantum limit for quaternary encoding.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 6, 2013

A new approach to assessing future sea level rise from ice sheets

Researchers used structured expert elicitation to assess future sea level rise from ice sheets, predicting a 29cm median estimate by 2100. The study's findings suggest a conceivable risk of a rise of greater than 1m by 2100, with uncertainties surrounding the cause of recent ice sheet mass loss.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 6, 2013

How the kilogram has put on weight

Researchers at Newcastle University used X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) to analyze the build-up of hydrocarbons on replica kilograms, finding that a suntan could help remove contamination and bring prototype weights back to their ideal mass. The study highlights the significance of maintaining precise measurements in internatio...

SourceNewcastle University·JournalMetrologia·DateJan 6, 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.

Counting the cost of mercury pollution

A new study estimates that up to 1.5 million EU children are born each year with mercury exposures above the safe limit, resulting in a potential lifetime earning loss of €8-9 million per person. Exposure reduction could equate to €10 billion per year in benefits.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJan 6, 2013

Living cells behave like fluid-filled sponges

Scientists from University College London have found that animal cells exhibit poroelastic behavior when mechanically stimulated, similar to organs within the body. The rate of cell deformation is limited by how quickly water can redistribute within the cell interior.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 6, 2013

The pain puzzle: Uncovering how morphine increases pain in some people

A research team from Université Laval has discovered a molecular pathway by which morphine can increase pain, leading to potential new strategies to improve treatment of post-operative and chronic pain. The researchers identified specialized cells called microglia as the culprit behind morphine-induced pain hypersensitivity.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 6, 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.

From the Amazon rainforest to human body cells: Quantifying stability

Scientists at Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research propose a new method for measuring system stability, which could help predict tipping points in the Amazon rainforest and assess cancer risk. By analyzing data from diverse systems, researchers found that basin stability is a key factor in determining stability.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 6, 2013

Genetic mystery of Behcet's disease unfolds along the ancient Silk Road

Researchers have identified four new regions on the human genome linked to Behcet's disease, which is characterized by inflammation of blood vessels and potential blindness. The study provides insights into genetic factors contributing to the disease and suggests new therapies for treatment.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 6, 2013

Photosynthesis: The last link in the chain

A team of researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München has identified an old acquaintance as the missing link in regulating electron transport during photosynthesis. The enzyme, PGRL1, plays a central role in the regulation of cyclic electron flow and may help improve photosynthetic performance.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 4, 2013

Outsourced radiologists perform better reading for fewer hospitals

A study found that radiologists' performance improves when reading images for a specific hospital, rather than multiple hospitals. This suggests that outsourcing radiology services can be beneficial, as long as the outsourcing company designs the work to maximize productivity and customer specificity.

SourcePenn State·JournalOrganization Science·DateJan 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.

UCSB researchers perform pioneering research on Type 2 diabetes

A team of UCSB researchers has identified changes in cellular metabolism as the triggering factor for Type 2 diabetes. By studying the four types of components that make up cells, they found a 'tipping point' where metabolic threshold is crossed, leading to beta cell failure and insulin regulation issues.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 4, 2013

Induction of adult cortical neurogenesis by an antidepressant

Researchers found that fluoxetine stimulates the production of new neurons from neural progenitor cells in the adult cortex. This process coincides with a reduction in apoptotic cell death following ischemia, highlighting the potential neuroprotective response induced by this antidepressant drug.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateJan 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.

A temperature below absolute zero

Researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft create an atomic gas that exhibits a negative Kelvin temperature, where particles possess high energies despite being thermally insulated. This phenomenon challenges traditional notions of heat and cold, with potentially groundbreaking implications for thermodynamics and quantum mechanics.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJan 4, 2013

NASA sees Cyclone Dumile moving over open ocean

Cyclone Dumile is moving southward over the open ocean, generating rough seas with wave heights of up to 32 feet. The storm's eye has become ragged, indicating it may weaken as it transitions to an extra-tropical storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 4, 2013

NASA catches Tropical Storm Sonamu in South China Sea

Tropical Storm Sonamu intensified over the eastern South China Sea, moving westward with maximum sustained winds near 35 knots. The storm is expected to peak in intensity on January 5 before weakening due to increasing vertical wind shear, making landfall early next week in east central Malaysia.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 4, 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.

Researchers seek longer battery life for electric locomotive

A team of Penn State researchers has developed a method to improve regular battery management practices for lead-acid batteries used in electric locomotives. The new approach increases the cell capacity by 41 percent and overall battery capacity by 30 percent, rejuvenating dead cells and reducing sulfation.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateJan 4, 2013

Website launched to help patients prepare for complex medical decisions

A new online resource called PREPARE has been developed to help people make complex medical decisions through user-friendly content, videos, and a step-by-step process. The website addresses key aspects of advance care planning and decision making, providing concrete examples and tools for patients and their families.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Pain and Symptom Management·DateJan 4, 2013

Scripps physicians call for change in cancer tissue handling

Genetic sequencing technology is altering cancer diagnosis and treatment, but traditional specimen handling methods slow progress. Scripps physicians propose freezing tumor tissue to preserve DNA coding, potentially leading to better diagnoses and treatments.

SourceScripps Health·JournalJAMA·DateJan 4, 2013

Research update: Jumping droplets help heat transfer

MIT researchers have developed a coated surface with nanostructured patterns that increase the heat-transfer coefficient, allowing for more efficient condensation and reducing the need for expensive manufacturing processes. The technology has been shown to improve heat transfer in industrial plants by up to 30%.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 4, 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.

Best evidence yet that dinosaurs used feathers for courtship

Researchers found evidence that some feathered dinosaurs, such as oviraptors, used their tail feathers to attract mates and engage in visual exhibitions. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of feathers in dinosaurs and their similarity to modern birds.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateJan 4, 2013

How prostate cancer therapies compare by cost and effectiveness

A comprehensive study analyzed 232 papers on prostate cancer treatments and found that surgery is the most cost-effective option, saving lives at a lower cost than radiation therapy. The analysis also showed that treatment plans for localized prostate cancer vary dramatically across different centers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJan 4, 2013

Breast milk contains more than 700 bacteria

Spanish researchers have discovered a diverse range of bacteria in breast milk, including over 700 species. The study found that mother's weight and labor type affect microbiome diversity, with heavier mothers having fewer bacteria in their milk.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 4, 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.

Drainage ditches can help clean up field runoff

Vegetated drainage ditches have been shown to effectively capture herbicides and insecticides from field runoff, reducing their impact on downstream waterways. This innovative solution provides a cost-effective way for farmers to manage agricultural pollutants and protect natural resources.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateJan 4, 2013

Rainfall, brain infection linked in sub-Saharan Africa

Researchers found a significant link between climate and infant brain infections, with rainfall affecting the number of hydrocephalus cases. The study suggests that environmental conditions can quench bacterial infections, making some cases potentially preventable if understood better.

SourcePenn State·DateJan 4, 2013

Ben-Gurion U. researchers use data from traffic app to identify high frequency accident locations

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University used Waze GPS data to identify intersections with the highest number of accidents, revealing police response time variability and underutilized resources. The study suggests that leveraging geosocial networks can improve road safety by providing real-time traffic and accident reports.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateJan 4, 2013

Why good resolutions about taking up a physical activity can be hard to keep

Researchers discovered a key protein receptor plays a crucial role in motivation during physical exercise, explaining why many people struggle to stick to their fitness goals. The CB1 cannabinoid receptor regulates the brain's reward system, controlling how long individuals engage in voluntary physical activity.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 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.

Waste removal in worms reveals new mechanism to regulate calcium signaling

Researchers discovered a new way to regulate calcium signaling in worms, revealing the crucial role of microRNA-786 in dictating when and where the primary calcium spike occurs. This finding may have significant implications for understanding calcium signaling processes in humans.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 4, 2013

Shifting the balance between good fat and bad fat

Sanford-Burnham researchers discover that protein p62 plays a crucial role in balancing metabolism in fat tissue. When p62 is missing, the body's metabolic balance shifts towards 'bad' white fat and away from 'good' brown fat. This finding indicates that p62 could be an attractive target for new therapies aimed at curbing obesity.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2013

Markey receives grant to continue Jin Shin Jyutsu program

The University of Kentucky's Markey Cancer Center will continue the Jin Shin Jyutsu program in 2013 thanks to a $25,000 grant. The program, which uses ancient touch therapy, has shown significant improvement in pain, stress, and nausea for patients.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateJan 3, 2013

Plvap/PV1 critical to formation of the diaphragms in endothelial cells

Researchers have identified the importance of Plvap/PV1 gene in forming endothelial caveolae diaphragms, which maintain basal permeability and homeostasis of blood plasma. The study found that PV1 is crucial for the survival of vascular endothelial cells and preventing protein loss.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 3, 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.