Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive August 2013


Page 14 of 29

Voyager 1 has left the solar system, says new study

Researchers at the University of Maryland say Voyager 1 has entered interstellar space, leaving a 'fuzzily-defined transition zone' behind. The spacecraft crossed the heliopause on July 27, 2012, but its exact location is still debated.

JCI early table of contents for Aug. 15, 2013

Researchers identified protein biomarkers that predict ovarian cancer recurrence and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) development. The findings suggest a potential for using protein analysis to predict patient outcomes and guide treatment decisions in both diseases.

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.

Whole-genome sequencing unravels the puzzle of chronic mountain sickness

A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics found that whole-genome sequencing can identify genetic mutations associated with chronic mountain sickness. Researchers sequenced the genomes of Andean individuals and identified two genes, ANP32D and SENP1, which play a key role in hypoxia tolerance.

Will to win forms at 4 years old

A study by University of Warwick researchers found that young children under 4 struggle to understand the concept of competition and how it relates to others' goals. They failed to appreciate the intentional use of poaching moves in games, even when faced with their opponent's actions.

A new approach assembles big structures from small interlocking pieces

Researchers develop a lightweight structure made of tiny blocks that can be snapped together like bricks, revolutionizing the assembly of airplanes, spacecraft, and larger structures. The new material is 10 times stiffer for a given weight than existing ultralight materials and can be easily disassembled and reassembled.

Cell cycle-related genes in the pathogenesis of neural tube defects

A recent study published in Neural Regeneration Research identified cell cycle-related genes as crucial factors in the development of neural tube defects. The research found that retinoic acid treatment differentially expressed three cell cycle-related genes: p57kip2, Cdk5, and Spin.

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.

Answering crucial questions about anthrax exposure

Researchers developed a mathematical model to estimate anthrax infection risk, estimating that inhaling 11,000 spores would be needed to reach a 50% chance of infection. The study also found the optimal time to take antibiotics is 60 days after exposure.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Tufts scientists develop new early warning system for cholera epidemics

Researchers have established a new technique to predict seasonal cholera epidemics months in advance with greater accuracy, utilizing remote satellite imaging and measuring organic matter. The 'satellite water marker' index was found to be more accurate than previous methods, reducing error rates by up to 30%.

Trio of fires in Northern California

A trio of fires in Northern California continues to burn, with the Corral Complex fire spanning over 2,500 acres. The Salmon River Complex has burned over 13,500 acres, with firefighters working to contain it. Crews are prioritizing structure protection and preparing for potential ignitions to strengthen containment lines.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Haley to receive GSA's 2013 Minority Mentorship Award

The Gerontological Society of America has chosen William E. Haley, PhD, as the 2013 recipient of the Task Force on Minority Issues in Gerontology Outstanding Mentorship Award. He is recognized for his dedication to mentoring minority researchers in the field of aging.

Rice technique expands options for molecular imaging

The technique, dubbed 'multiple-dimensional vibrational spectroscopy,' captures the conformation of small molecules with great accuracy, measuring vibrations and determining angles between bonds. This method could revolutionize the study of catalysis, energy storage, and biomembranes.

Hubble explores the origins of modern galaxies

Astronomers use Hubble to study distant galaxies 11 billion years ago, confirming the Hubble Sequence holds true as far back as 8 billion years. The study finds that all galaxies fit into different classifications of the sequence, with blue star-forming galaxies and massive red galaxies dominating at these early times.

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.

Allman to receive GSA's 2013 Joseph T. Freeman Award

The Gerontological Society of America has awarded Richard M. Allman, MD, with the 2013 Joseph T. Freeman Award for his contributions to geriatric research and practice. The award recognizes his focus on understanding mobility loss in older adults and improving age-related health disparities.

Slow earthquakes may foretell larger events

Researchers at Penn State have found a precursor signal to slow earthquakes, which can potentially foretell larger events. By studying the mechanisms behind slow earthquakes, they identified a transition in fault zone properties that supports slower velocities.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Research collaboration aims to improve wireless technology, smartphones

Researchers at Kansas State University and Avatekh Inc. are developing advanced nonlinear algorithms and circuits called adaptive nonlinear differential limiters (ANDLs) to reduce electronic noise and interference in industrial and consumer products. The technology may improve smartphone performance, battery life, and operating range.

Sugar helps scientists find and assess prostate tumors

A new GE technology uses pyruvate levels to detect prostate tumors in real time, providing a safe and non-invasive way to assess cancer progression. The technology has shown promising results in a clinical study of 31 patients with prostate cancer.

CCNY chemists devise new way to prepare molecules for drug testing

Researchers at CCNY developed a metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reaction to produce single-enantiomer molecules, enabling the creation of diverse libraries of biologically active molecules for drug screening. This approach is faster and potentially less costly than current methods, which are wasteful and costly.

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.

MacDonald earns GSA's 2013 Baltes Foundation Award

MacDonald, a University of Victoria associate professor, received the award for his research on cognitive aging and early identification of those at risk for cognitive decline. His work aims to detect early markers that can facilitate targeted intervention strategies.

Malware bites and how to stop it

Researchers have developed a new approach to virus detection that uses data mining algorithms and machine learning techniques to identify malicious code and behavior patterns.

What is the new target inhibiting the progression of Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers have discovered a new therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease, which regulates N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor transport. Valeric acid, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, has been shown to significantly inhibit the progression of learning and memory disturbances induced by Alzheimer's disease.

New possibilities for efficient biofuel production

Researchers identified a new enzyme in the lignin biosynthetic pathway that reduces lignin content and increases cellulose conversion to glucose. This breakthrough has the potential to increase the efficiency of biofuel production from biomass by up to four-fold.

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.

Cell memory mechanism discovered

A team of scientists has identified a potential mechanism for cellular memory, which allows cells to recall the order of transcription factor binding. This discovery sheds light on how cells maintain gene regulation and may have implications for understanding diseases such as cancer.

New chemotherapy hope for hard-to-treat childhood cancers

Researchers at UNSW have developed a new class of drugs that target the structure of cancer cells, providing proof-of-concept for two types of cancers in animal models: neuroblastoma and melanoma. This breakthrough could lead to an entirely new type of chemotherapy with fewer long-term side effects.

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.

Beating blindness with vegetable oil

New research shows that vegetable oil fatty acids can increase plasma membrane fluidity in retina cells, reducing the risk of retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil may also contribute to preventing retina diseases.

Shining stem cells reveals how our skin is maintained

The skin uses a unique method to renew itself, with differentiated levels of stem cells and their micro-environment determining cell types. This challenges current stem cell models and provides new knowledge on skin cancer and wound healing.

Knockout mouse grows larger, but weaker, muscles

Researchers found that muscle cells in knockout mice grew larger, but lost strength due to oxidative stress. The study suggests that limiting oxidative stress could help prevent age-related muscle loss and improve overall health.

Imaging in mental health and improving the diagnostic process

A study led by Dr. Elizabeth Osuch found a correlation between the activation of the putamen region in the brain and bipolar disorder symptoms. The discovery may lead to a definitive biological marker for differentiating between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, ultimately improving diagnosis and treatment.

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.

Human eye movements for vision are remarkably adaptable

Researchers found that people with normal vision can adjust their eye movements within hours to cope with temporary vision loss. This discovery suggests a way to help individuals with age-related macular degeneration better manage visual impairment.

Mountain high: Genetic adaptation for high altitudes identified

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have decoded the genetic basis of chronic mountain sickness, a disease affecting Andean highlanders. They found two genes, ANP32D and SENP1, that are overexpressed in CMS individuals and may hold key to treating the condition.

Does chronic pain affect a spouse's sleep?

Research suggests that patients' chronic pain affects their spouses' emotional well-being and marital satisfaction, leading to compromised sleep quality. In close relationships, the greater a patient's pain, the less refreshing the sleep for the spouse.

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.

The first animal model for sexual transmission of HIV

Scientists have successfully transmitted HIV in a mouse model of heterosexual intercourse, shedding light on the complexities of viral transmission and potential prevention methods. The study's findings suggest that hormonal factors in the female reproductive tract can impact host susceptibility to HIV infection.

Heartbeats link mind and body together

Researchers at EPFL found that visualizing heartbeat on a virtual body can alter how people experience their own body and self. The study suggests that internal organs shape body ownership and can be used to change self-consciousness.

Simple blood pressure cuff inflation reduces heart injury from bypass surgery

A new study found that remote ischaemic preconditioning can reduce heart muscle damage after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Patients who underwent the procedure had lower troponin I concentrations, indicating less damage, and were less likely to die from any cause or heart attack/stroke one year after surgery.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Hausdorff to receive GSA's 2013 Excellence in Rehabilitation of Aging Persons Award

Jeffrey M. Hausdorff, PhD, receives the GSA's Excellence in Rehabilitation of Aging Persons Award for his work on gait variability, motor-cognitive interactions and the assessment of fall risk. His research has led to the development of innovative rehabilitation programs, including a multi-modal treadmill training program that improves...

Making the brain take notice of faces in autism

A new study found that oxytocin increases responses to social stimuli in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, suggesting a potential treatment approach for the condition. The study, published in Biological Psychiatry, used functional imaging scans to examine brain activity in participants with ASD and healthy controls.

Kraus to receive 2013 Gene D. Cohen Award

Nina Kraus, PhD, a researcher at Northwestern University, is the 2013 recipient of the Gene D. Cohen Research Award in Creativity and Aging. Her work focuses on the neurobiology underlying speech and music perception and learning-associated brain plasticity.

Good-looking birds: Sexual attractiveness in the wild turkey

Research reveals that male wild turkeys' sexual attractiveness is tied to how they use their genes, rather than physical differences. Dominant and subordinate males exhibit distinct genetic profiles, with dominant males showing higher male-like gene expression.

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.