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Science News Archive April 2013 - Page 9


Page 9 of 32

Study finds troubling patterns of teacher assignments within schools

A study found troubling patterns of teacher assignments within schools, which can contribute to teacher turnover and achievement gaps. Lower-achieving students are more likely to be assigned to inexperienced teachers or those from less-competitive colleges.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalSociology of Education·DateApr 23, 2013

Scientists provide 'new spin' on emerging quantum technologies

Researchers from York, Paris and Missouri developed a new understanding of collective spin excitations in semiconductors, reducing decoherence and improving device functionalities. The discovery could lead to the development of new spintronic devices and quantum information technologies.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 23, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

High-energy astrophysics puzzle

Researchers set lower limit for blazar's redshift, indicating distance of at least 7.4 billion light-years, challenging current models of blazar emission mechanisms and extragalactic background light propagation.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 23, 2013

Study: Source of organic matter affects Bay water quality

A new study reveals that land use in watersheds can impact Bay water quality, with urbanized landscapes contributing energy to fuel low-oxygen 'dead zones'. Organic carbon from these sources is more resistant to degradation, leading to increased persistence downstream.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·DateApr 23, 2013

Diagnosis and management of pancreatic cancer: A review for physicians

The article provides an evidence-based overview of pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of surgery as a curative option. Key findings also highlight the benefits of accelerated progress in understanding the disease through partnerships between clinicians and basic scientists.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 22, 2013

Discovery of new genes will help childhood arthritis treatment

Scientists have discovered 14 new genes associated with childhood arthritis, which could lead to more effective treatments and improved outcomes. The study's findings may also enable clinicians to identify children who require specific therapy earlier, ultimately reducing the impact of the disease on their quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 22, 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.

The human immune system in space

A team of researchers studied human cells sent to space, finding that the immune system weakens and bacterial virulence enhances under microgravity conditions. The study also found altered gene expression related to rheumatoid arthritis, tumor growth, and wound repair.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2013

Radioactive bacteria targets metastatic pancreatic cancer

A new therapy uses radioactive Listeria bacteria to selectively infect tumor cells and deliver radioisotopes, dramatically decreasing the number of metastases in a mouse model of highly aggressive pancreatic cancer. The treatment also showed promise in reducing metastases by 90% in mice with metastatic pancreatic cancer.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2013

New research constructs ant family tree

Scientists construct largest ant family tree-of-life using DNA sequence data, confirming that modern ants originated between 139-158 million years ago. The study also reveals the Neotropics as a vital region for ant evolution, both preserving ancient groups and generating new species.

SourceField Museum·JournalEvolution·DateApr 22, 2013

Gone, but not forgotten

A team of neuroscientists studied the case of EP, a man with radical memory loss due to viral encephalitis. Unlike HM, who retained some residual tissue, EP's brain damage resulted in total destruction of specific memory-linked structures, rendering him unable to learn new information.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

NASA sees 3 coronal mass ejections

Experimental NASA research models show that three coronal mass ejections (CMEs) have erupted from the sun, with speeds of up to 625 miles per second. The CMEs may pass by NASA's Messenger and STEREO-A satellites, posing a risk of particle radiation to interplanetary spacecraft.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 22, 2013

Retrospective study suggests that patients with lung cancer who carry specific HER2 mutations may benefit from certain anti-HER2 treatments

A retrospective study suggests that patients with lung cancer carrying specific HER2 mutations may experience tumor shrinkage and delayed disease progression when treated with anti-HER2 drugs. The study found 1.7% of NSCLC patients in Europe had these rare mutations, which can lead to continuous activation of the HER2 protein.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 22, 2013

Scientists map all possible drug-like chemical compounds

Researchers have developed a computer algorithm that can model and catalogue the entire set of lightweight, carbon-containing molecules that chemists could feasibly create in a lab. The map helps scientists identify unexplored regions of the chemical space where new compounds may hold solutions to some of the world's most vexing challe...

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 22, 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.

New agent might control breast-cancer growth and spread

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center found that AS1411 reduces cancer aggressiveness by inhibiting microRNA maturation, while restoring sensitivity to fulvestrant in resistant cells. The study suggests a new strategy for treating breast cancer.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 22, 2013

NASA's HyspIRI: Seeing the forest and the trees and more!

The HyspIRI airborne campaign collects data on California's diverse regions, revealing the unique spectral signature of each pixel. Scientists aim to understand ecosystem diversity and function using this technology, which will also be used for detecting land types and processes like fire and drought.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 22, 2013

New study examines leadership programs in academic medical centers

A new study led by Dr. Sharon Straus at St. Michael's Hospital found that leadership programs have modest effects on advancement in leadership ranks and ability to publish papers in peer-reviewed journals. The study highlights the need for more research to evaluate which programs work and why.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateApr 22, 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.

Screening detects ovarian cancer using neighboring cells

A Northwestern University study has developed a pioneering biophotonics technology to detect ovarian cancer by analyzing cells from the cervix or uterus. The partial wave spectroscopic microscopy technique shows diagnostic changes in these cells even when they appear normal under a microscope, offering a potential breakthrough in early...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateApr 22, 2013

Does international child sponsorship work? New research says yes

A new study finds that international child sponsorship programs result in higher rates of schooling completion and improved adult employment outcomes. The research, conducted by Compassion International, estimates causal effects on areas such as educational completion, type of employment, and community leadership.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateApr 22, 2013

Online biodiversity databases audited: 'Improvement needed'

An audit of Australian millipede species records in two online databases found numerous errors, including duplicated records and incorrect locations. The study highlights the need for data aggregators like GBIF and ALA to collaborate with their providers to ensure accurate data publication.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateApr 22, 2013

Tumors with ALK rearrangements can harbor more mutations

Researchers found that tumors with ALK gene rearrangements can harbor up to 20% of additional mutations, including EGFR and MET genes. These coexisting mutations may impact treatment response to targeted therapies.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 22, 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.

Is food truly addictive?

Research examines similarities between food intake and addiction, but debates the application of the addiction model to food. A special issue in Biological Psychiatry explores the state of the field, covering neurobiological mechanisms, brain reward circuitry, and risk factors.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 22, 2013

Study: Physicians less likely to 'bond' with overweight patients

A recent study found that physicians built less emotional rapport with overweight patients than those of normal weight. This can lead to ineffective care and poorer patient outcomes. The researchers emphasized the importance of empathy in building trust and motivating patients to make lifestyle changes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalObesity·DateApr 22, 2013

Latest research shows 2 items are key to decrease symptoms and prolong survival for LMC patients

Researchers found that intraventricular chemotherapy can palliate associated symptoms in patients with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis from non-small cell lung cancer. The study shows that 20 of 69 patients achieved normal ICP, and careful patient selection is recommended for successful treatment.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 22, 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.

Less rainfall expected for the Hawaiian Islands

Scientists at the University of Hawaii predict that Hawaii's rainfall trend will continue, with less rain and fewer heavy-rain days. A statistical model developed by researchers estimates a significant decrease in heavy rain events during the rainy season from November to April.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·DateApr 22, 2013

'Lazy eye disorder -- A promising new therapeutic approach

A research team led by Dr. Robert Hess used Tetris to train both eyes to work together, alleviating suppression of the weaker eye and increasing brain plasticity. The treatment showed dramatic improvements in vision and 3-D depth perception in adults with amblyopia.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 22, 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.

Is pet ownership sustainable?

Research highlights the importance of nutritional sustainability in pet food production, offering alternatives to minimize environmental impact while meeting animal needs. Educating consumers and adopting sustainable feeding practices can also help reduce waste and promote pet health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·DateApr 22, 2013

Lung cancer mortality rates linked to primary care provider density

A recent study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that higher primary care provider density is associated with lower lung cancer mortality rates, particularly among white populations. The researchers suggest that interventions aimed at primary care providers may deserve more investigation to improve access to cancer care.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 22, 2013

'Clean' your memory to pick a winner

Researchers at UCL and Montreal found a way to train the brain to accurately predict event outcomes by providing idealised scenarios that conform to statistical probability. This 'cleans' their memory and provides good quality evidence for decision-making.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

Wayne State researchers seek calcium channels to target cancer tumors

Researchers are working on a technique that can help identify and treat cancer tumors using manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI). The goal is to guide and individualize treatment based on the presence of specific calcium channels in tumors.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateApr 22, 2013

Study: Mushrooms provide as much vitamin D as supplements

Researchers discovered that eating mushrooms containing vitamin D2 can effectively increase and maintain vitamin D levels in healthy adults. The study found that mushroom powder was as effective as taking supplemental vitamin D2 or vitamin D3.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2013

Fish was on the menu for early flying dinosaur

Researchers found fossilized remains of Microraptor with stomach content of fish, revealing its varied diet. The dinosaur's unique teeth were adapted for catching slippery prey like fish.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalEvolution·DateApr 22, 2013

RI Hospital: Nearly half of older women diagnosed with UTI not confirmed in urine culture

A new study at Rhode Island Hospital found that many older women are overdiagnosed and overtreated for urinary tract infections (UTIs), highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis. The study suggests that collecting urine by inserting a temporary catheter may reduce false-positive results and unnecessary antibiotic exposure.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 22, 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.

Keeping the past in the future with 3-D mobile mapping

Australian researchers use CSIRO's Zebedee to create detailed 3D maps of historic sites in Moreton Bay, preserving fragile and remote cultural heritage. The technology allows for rapid data collection, enabling analysis of important aspects of Australian history, such as the segregation of Indigenous people in leper colonies.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateApr 22, 2013

Can the friend of my friend be my enemy?

Researchers analyzed social bonds in rock hyrax colonies, finding that balanced triads are more common than initially thought. Structural balance theory suggests that enemies of enemies can be stable configurations, contradicting classical human relationship dynamics.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateApr 22, 2013

Hepatitis c-like viruses identified in bats and rodents

Scientists identified viruses closely related to Hepatitis C virus in rodents and bats, shedding light on the disease's origins and possible animal models for treatment. The findings also support the development of new vaccines and treatments, as the viruses share similar sequences with HCV.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

Technology transforms health care

This special issue of Technology and Innovation explores transformative health care technologies, reducing costs and improving outcomes. Researchers have developed automated educational interventions to analyze prescription data, creating health outcomes indices to measure patient outcomes over time.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateApr 22, 2013

Forensic sciences are 'fraught with error'

Classic psychological research on expectancy and observer effects reveals flaws in forensic science, including the influence of human examiners and flawed evidence. The study proposes best practice recommendations to reduce confirmation biases and improve the quality of the judicial system.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·DateApr 22, 2013

Fighting the 'dumb jock' stereotype

A Michigan State University study found that student-athletes who believed their coaches expected high academic performance were more confident in the classroom. Researchers also highlighted the role of professors, academic advisers and classmates in boosting confidence

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of College Student Development·DateApr 22, 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.

New light shed on early stage Alzheimer's disease

A study published in PNAS reveals how disrupted cellular energy metabolism contributes to the development of Alzheimer's disease. In early-stage Alzheimer's, amyloid-beta-peptide accumulation disrupts mitochondrial function, leading to over-accumulation of calcium and neuronal death.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2013

Honor among (credit card) thieves?

A study by Michigan State University criminologist Thomas Holt reveals a sophisticated online marketplace for stolen credit data, where reputations drive sales and feedback helps weed out untrustworthy sellers. The network, similar to eBay or Amazon, uses web forums and electronic payments to facilitate transactions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalGlobal Crime·DateApr 22, 2013

Geochemical method finds links between terrestrial climate and atmospheric carbon dioxide

A new geochemical method has found a link between the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide and Earth's surface temperature, suggesting that the planet is inextricably linked. The study uses a recently developed technique to measure the change in terrestrial temperature associated with a shift in global atmospheric CO2 concentrat...

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2013

Germanium made laser compatible

Researchers develop method to make germanium laser-compatible through high tensile strain, enabling faster data transfer via light. The new technique could increase computer performance and revolutionize computing chip design.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 22, 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.

RAFT polymerization technology enabling the biotech industry

CSIRO has licensed its Reversible Addition-Fragmentation chain Transfer polymerisation technology (RAFT) to Mirus Bio, a leading non-viral gene delivery company. This agreement will broaden Mirus' expertise in specialized polymer design tools and facilitate the development of new nucleic acid transfer capabilities.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateApr 22, 2013

After age 18, asthma care deteriorates

A study by Harvard Medical School found that losing health insurance leads to poor asthma management among young adults, who are more likely to use emergency rooms and struggle with accessing medical care. The researchers emphasize the need for addressing social factors and creating transition plans from pediatric to adult care.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 22, 2013

For development in Brazil, 2 crops are better than 1

Research finds double cropping associated with higher GDP, median per capita income, and better public sanitation. Double cropping also linked to stronger employment and tax revenue, which benefits entire economy.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateApr 22, 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.

New studies examine caffeine's effect on cognitive tasks, food pairing

Researchers investigated whether caffeine affects cognitive performance in children and teens, finding sex differences in responses to caffeine on certain tasks. Additionally, a study on food pairing found that consuming caffeinated beverages with flavored foods increased preference for those foods.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2013