Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2013 - Page 28


Page 28 of 32

Asian carp DNA not widespread in the Great Lakes

Researchers from the University of Notre Dame and The Nature Conservancy found no evidence of widespread Asian carp presence in the Great Lakes, contrary to recent reports. Instead, they detected DNA only in areas where Asian carp have been caught, suggesting that live fish are the most likely source of the invasive species.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateApr 4, 2013

Breakthrough in hydrogen fuel production could revolutionize alternative energy market

Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a way to extract large quantities of hydrogen from any plant, potentially bringing a low-cost, environmentally friendly fuel source to the world. The new process uses xylose, the most abundant simple plant sugar, to produce high-purity hydrogen with an energy efficiency of over 100 percent.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 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.

Antibody evolution could guide HIV vaccine development

A study has identified a broadly cross-reactive neutralizing antibody in an infected HIV-1 patient, providing insights into effective vaccination strategies. The researchers hope that a vaccine mimicking the development of this potent antibody response may trigger similar protective antibodies.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2013

JoVE now accepting submissions for new environmental sciences section

JoVE is launching a new environment section to publish cutting-edge methodologies and innovations in renewable energy, sustainable materials, and more. The section aims to promote environmentally conscientious practices and provide a platform for researchers to present greener technology.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateApr 4, 2013

Ben-Gurion U. students to present research projects at Clinton Global Initiative U. in St. Louis

Three Ben-Gurion University students present research projects focused on water conservation and renewable energy, addressing global challenges in education, energy, climate change, and poverty. Their initiatives aim to develop inexpensive technology for harvesting drinking water from the atmosphere and promote solar energy awareness.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateApr 4, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cancer checkpoint

Researchers discovered SIRT4 plays a crucial role in preventing DNA damage-induced cancer by controlling glutamine metabolism and arresting cell cycle. In mice lacking SIRT4, lung cancer developed spontaneously, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 4, 2013

Remote reefs can be tougher than they look

A long-term study shows that isolated coral reefs like Scott Reef in Western Australia can recover from severe disturbances without relying on neighboring reefs. The reef's isolation allowed surviving corals to rapidly grow and propagate, ultimately recovering within 12 years.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalScience·DateApr 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.

Genetic markers ID second Alzheimer's pathway

Scientists have identified several genes linked to the tau protein, which is found in brain tangles that develop in Alzheimer's patients. The findings may help provide targets for a different class of drugs that could be used for treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 4, 2013

Counting copy numbers characterizes prostate cancer

Researchers have developed a non-invasive test for metastatic prostate cancer using whole-genome analysis of plasma DNA, which identifies abnormal copy numbers of specific sequences. This breakthrough could aid personalized therapy and target treatment for castration-resistant prostate cancer.

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

Final MAVEN instrument integrated to spacecraft

The Neutral Gas and Ion Mass Spectrometer (NGIMS) instrument has been successfully integrated to the MAVEN spacecraft, enabling measurements of Mars' upper atmosphere composition. NGIMS will analyze neutral and ionized gases, providing insights into atmospheric chemistry and potential microbial life.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 3, 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.

Advances in molecular testing offer new hope for lung cancer patients

The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer has developed a guideline for molecular testing in lung cancer, recommending testing for EGFR and ALK abnormalities in all patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma. This approach provides individualized treatment options and improved quality of life for patients.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 3, 2013

Satellite tagging maps the secret migration of white sharks

Researchers have mapped a two-year migration pattern of female white sharks in the Pacific Ocean, revealing widely separated nursery areas. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable animals from commercial fishing and habitat disruption.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAnimal Biotelemetry·DateApr 3, 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.

New evidence shows PubMed Central undermines journal usage

A new study published in The FASEB Journal found that PubMed Central's public accessibility of biomedical articles draws readership away from journals, weakening their ability to build communities and communicate research findings. Over time, this effect increases, posing a threat to the perceived value of journal subscriptions.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 3, 2013

Brain Activity Mapping Project aims to understand the brain

The Brain Activity Mapping (BAM) Project seeks to develop tools for greater understanding of the brain's intricate networks, potentially leading to treatments for neurological diseases. Advances in nanoscience and nanotechnology hold promise for probing the brain at a nanoscale.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 3, 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.

Cisplatin-resistant cancer cells sensitive to experimental anticancer drugs, PARP inhibitors

Researchers identified biochemical changes in cancer cells that render them vulnerable to PARP inhibitors, which showed promise as a novel treatment strategy for cisplatin-resistant cancer. The study found that high levels of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 and elevated amounts of poly (ADP-ribosyl) were linked to resistance to cisplatin.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 3, 2013

UTHealth research: Vermont's health care reform has lessons for other states

Vermont's aggressive health care reform initiatives offer valuable lessons for other states, including engaging stakeholders, coordinating implementation efforts, and capitalizing on federal financing opportunities. The state's centralized administrative board has resulted in lower costs by eliminating duplication of efforts.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 3, 2013

Multiple factors predict repeat suicide-related behavior in youth: Study

A study by Dr. Anne Rhodes found that youth with a history of maltreatment, small neighborhood size, or mental disorder are more likely to repeat suicidal behaviors. The research, published in Child Abuse & Neglect, highlights the importance of assessing these factors to prevent repetition.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateApr 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.

Brain cell signal network genes linked to schizophrenia risk in families

Researchers identified rare variants in genes involved with the NMDA receptor network, which regulate brain cell connections and signal transmissions. These findings support the hypothesis that decreased NMDA receptor-mediated nerve-signal transmissions contribute to schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 3, 2013

Diversity programs give illusion of corporate fairness, study shows

A new study reveals that diversity training programs can create an illusion of corporate fairness, leading people to believe work environments are equitable despite hiring, promotion, or salary inequities. The researchers recommend that companies examine their records to determine the effectiveness of diversity and mentoring programs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateApr 3, 2013

ORNL microscopy uncovers 'dancing' silicon atoms in graphene

Scientists have directly visualized and tracked the movement of silicon atoms in a graphene sheet, revealing a 'dancing' behavior caused by energy transfer from an electron beam. This breakthrough could lead to new approaches for tuning electronic and optical properties in materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2013

Prostate cancer treatment study changing the way doctors practice

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine recommends continuous hormone therapy for metastatic prostate cancer, extending lives by months to years. Continuous therapy offers a better alternative to intermittent therapy with fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 3, 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.

Laser light zaps away cocaine addiction

Researchers have discovered that stimulating one part of the brain with laser light can wipe away addictive behavior in rats and turn non-addicted rats into compulsive cocaine seekers. The study suggests a new therapy using transcranial magnetic stimulation could be effective for humans, offering hope for treating cocaine addiction.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 2013

The evolutionary consequences of infidelity

Research reveals that social relationships and pair bonds play a crucial role in shaping the traits of male birds, with extra-pair mating having limited effects on sexual selection. The findings suggest that infidelity may even slow the evolution of sexual dimorphism.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalEvolution·DateApr 3, 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.

Earth is 'lazy' when forming faults like those near San Andreas

Geoscientist Michele Cooke's study explores fault evolution around bends using a mechanical efficiency approach, dubbed the "Lazy Earth" hypothesis. The findings suggest that the crust behaves in accord with work minimization principles, leading to increased efficiency and the formation of new faults.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Structural Geology·DateApr 3, 2013

Painted turtle gets DNA decoded

The study reveals that turtles activate existing genes in new ways to adapt to oxygen deprivation, which may lead to improved treatments for human heart conditions. The research also highlights the importance of preserving turtle diversity due to their slow evolution rate and declining global populations.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 3, 2013

New relief for gynecological disorders

Researchers have discovered a potent physiological anti-angiogenic factor, PEDF, that reverses symptoms of endometriosis and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome without compromising fertility. The injectable protein has shown promising results in pre-clinical studies.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 3, 2013

NIH scientists develop monkey model to study novel coronavirus infection

The NIH team developed a nonhuman primate model in December 2012 to study the emerging coronavirus. Clinical signs of the disease appear within 24 hours of infection, including reduced appetite and respiratory issues. The model is helping scientists evaluate potential vaccines and treatments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 3, 2013

High blood pressure in pregnancy may spell hot flashes later

Researchers found a significant association between hypertensive diseases during pregnancy and vasomotor symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats, in middle-aged women. The study of 853 women in the Netherlands suggests a potential biological link between these conditions and cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateApr 3, 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.

Physicists decipher social cohesion issues

A new study uses computer simulation to explore how directional migration influences cooperation levels and population structure. The results show improved cooperation among individuals in dense clusters resembling social cohesion.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateApr 3, 2013

Accused of complicity in Alzheimer's, amyloid proteins may be getting a bad rap

Recent studies from Stanford University School of Medicine have found that small portions of amyloid-forming proteins can alleviate symptoms in mice with multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease. The research suggests a radical new idea: full-length, amyloid-forming proteins may be produced by the body as protective forces.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 3, 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.

Baldness linked to increased risk of coronary heart disease

A meta-analysis of published evidence found a link between male pattern baldness and an increased risk of coronary heart disease, especially on the crown of the head. Men with extensive vertex baldness were 44% more likely to develop coronary artery disease than those with a full head of hair.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 3, 2013

Papyrus plant detox for slaughterhouses

Researchers found that papyrus sedge can absorb toxic matter from abattoir effluent, including nitrogen and phosphorus ions. The study suggests using constructed wetlands with papyrus as a final treatment step to reduce untreated effluent reaching Lake Victoria.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Technology and Management·DateApr 3, 2013

Medical enigma probed by Hebrew University researchers

Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem discovered that TNF-a plays a critical role in inducing immune suppression during chronic inflammation. They found that TNF-a directly affects myeloid-derived suppressor cells, leading to impaired host immune responses.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalImmunity·DateApr 3, 2013

Tagging the launch of Animal Biotelemetry

The launch of Animal Biotelemetry aims to provide a forum for discussion on telemetric techniques used in various animal species. Key findings include the two-year migration pattern of female white sharks and the use of UV radiation to prevent infections in tagged animals.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAnimal Biotelemetry·DateApr 3, 2013

Quantum tricks drive magnetic switching into the fast lane

Researchers have discovered a new way to switch magnetism using short laser pulses, achieving speeds of quadrillionths of a second. This breakthrough potentially opens the door to faster memory and logic device speeds, exceeding current gigahertz limits.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 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.

A giant step toward miniaturization

Researchers at Polytechnique Montréal and international partners create a new method for self-doping nanowires, allowing for precise control of electronic properties. This breakthrough enables the development of novel nanoscale devices with tailored shape and composition.

SourcePolytechnique Montréal·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 2013

Choosing less a form of protection says new study on decision-making

A new study published in Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that individuals with a focus on security tend to prioritize avoiding low status over maximizing gains. In contrast, those with a growth focus are more likely to pursue higher-value options.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateApr 3, 2013

Study: Environmental policies matter for growing megacities

A new study by Purdue University researchers shows that clean-air regulations have reduced acid rain in the US, Europe, and Japan over the past 30 years, but the opposite is true in fast-growing East Asian megacities due to lax antipollution rules or lack of enforcement. The effects of acid rain can propagate through aquatic ecosystems...

SourcePurdue University·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateApr 3, 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.

Ability to 'think about thinking' not limited to humans

Researchers at Georgia State University find chimpanzees can 'think about thinking,' using symbols to recognize their own cognitive states and seek information before responding. This ability challenges the idea of metacognition being unique to humans.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 3, 2013

LSUHSC research identifies co-factors critical to PTSD development

Researchers found that a specific gene's function during adolescent trauma exposure is crucial for developing PTSD. The study suggests targeting the CCKR-2 gene as a potential therapy strategy to prevent or cure PTSD.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2013