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Science News for August 20, 2013


Passing on the right antibodies: Protecting piglets from diarrhoea

A study found that piglets receive maternal IgA, IgG and IgM antibodies against Cystoisospora suis in the colostrum, which decline after two weeks. High levels of these antibodies are associated with reduced severity of neonatal diarrhoea.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalVeterinary Parasitology·DateAug 20, 2013

A new role for sodium in the brain

Scientists at McGill University have identified a unique 'on/off' switch for a major neurotransmitter receptor in the brain, known as the kainate receptor. This discovery highlights a new target for drug development to treat diseases such as epilepsy and neuropathic pain.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 20, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

X-ray vision to detect unseen gold

A new gamma-activation analysis (GAA) technique can detect gold more accurately and quickly than traditional methods, allowing mining companies to recover small traces of gold worth millions of dollars. This could save the Australian mining industry hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateAug 20, 2013

Building better brain implants: The challenge of longevity

A new technique from Case Western Reserve University's Capadona Lab enables gauging property changes during implantation and measuring on a micro-scale. This allows for crafting devices that can withstand physiological conditions in the brain for longer-term use, solving a major challenge in bioengineering.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateAug 20, 2013

Ancient cycads found to be pre-adapted to grow in groves

A new study suggests that ancient cycad lineage is pre-adapted to grow in groves, potentially relying on the extinct megafauna dispersal mechanism. Cycads are found in highly clumped, dense populations, with limited seed dispersal, suggesting they may be maladapted to current dispersers.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateAug 20, 2013

Appetite hormone misfires in obese people

A recent study found that glucagon, a hormone involved in regulating appetite, fails to induce feelings of fullness in obese individuals. However, it successfully suppresses hunger pangs in people with type 1 diabetes, according to researchers from The Endocrine Society.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 20, 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.

Commonly used drug does not reduce delirium in critically ill patients

Researchers tested haloperidol, a commonly used antipsychotic, in 141 critically ill patients on artificial ventilation. The study found that haloperidol had no effect on reducing delirium or mortality rates, but may help reduce sedation requirements. Non-pharmacological interventions are more effective in preventing delirium.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateAug 20, 2013

First pre-clinical gene therapy study to reverse Rett symptoms

A new gene therapy study, published in the Journal of Neuroscience, shows reversal of Rett symptoms in fully symptomatic mice by delivering a healthy MECP2 gene to cells throughout the body and brain. The treatment improved motor function, tremors, seizures, and hand clasping in 65% of cells.

SourceRett Syndrome Research Trust·DateAug 20, 2013

3D graphene: Solar cells' new platinum?

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed a new material, 3D graphene, that can replace the expensive metal platinum in dye-sensitized solar cells. The new material shows high conductivity and catalytic activity, converting nearly 8% of sunlight into electricity.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 20, 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.

Unscrambling the genetics of the chicken's 'blue' egg

Researchers from the University of Nottingham identified a genetic mutation causing blue eggs in native South American and European breeds. The mutation triggered an accumulation of biliverdin, a green-blue pigment, in the eggshell. This finding could inform future research on agricultural breeding techniques.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 20, 2013

The Aboriginal story of Burke and Wills

A new book by CSIRO Publishing sheds light on the critical role of Aboriginal people in the exploration of Australia during the Burke and Wills expedition. The book highlights the cross-cultural differences and perspectives between European explorers and Indigenous inhabitants.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateAug 20, 2013

Pulsars make a GPS for the cosmos

A team of scientists has developed a software that uses pulsar navigation to determine the position and velocity of spacecraft. By observing the timing of pulses from specific pulsars, the software can provide accurate location data for deep-space missions.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalAdvances in Space Research·DateAug 20, 2013

Bacterial toxins cause deadly heart disease

Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered that bacterial toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus cause lethal effects on the heart in infective endocarditis and sepsis. The study found that blocking superantigen action could be a new approach to treating deadly staph infections.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalmBio·DateAug 20, 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.

NASA sees another new Central Pacific tropical cyclone

A third tropical depression has formed in the Central Pacific Ocean, with Tropical Depression 03C (TD03C) moving west-northwest at 16 mpg/26 kph. The system is expected to cross the International Dateline, falling under the forecast authority of the Joint Typhoon Warning Center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 20, 2013

Stabilizing aircraft during takeoff and landing using math

Researchers developed a nonlinear model to study aircraft landing gear dynamics, identifying conditions for shimmy oscillations. The model provides insights into stability and design features, aiding in optimizing aircraft performance.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Dynamical Systems·DateAug 20, 2013

Study implicates dopamine in food restriction, drug abuse

Researchers found that food-restricted mice exhibited increased susceptibility to cocaine and other illicit drugs due to heightened dopamine neuron firing in the substantia nigra region. This association may help develop new treatments for psychostimulant abuse by targeting adaptations in brain function.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateAug 20, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

How brain microcircuits integrate information from different senses

A new study published in Neuron sheds light on the complex processes of brain integration, revealing differences in excitatory and inhibitory cells and superficial and deep layers of the cortex. This breakthrough understanding is essential for designing future strategies to stimulate brain repair and re-create precise circuits.

SourceUmea University·JournalNeuron·DateAug 20, 2013

Unemployment restricts access to kidney transplants, UNH research finds

Researchers found that patients who are retired and/or disabled, working part time, or working full time are more likely to be placed on a transplant waiting list than unemployed patients. Transplant centers may restrict access due to concerns about post-transplant medical care costs and noncompliance with treatment.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalClinical Transplantation·DateAug 20, 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.

How untying knots promotes cancer

A breakthrough discovery reveals that high levels of the eIF4E protein can promote cancer by unwinding complex mRNA knots, allowing ribosomes to translate genetic code into proteins that trigger tumor growth. This understanding may lead to highly specific cancer treatments targeting growth-promoting cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2013

Multiple genes manage how people taste sweeteners

Researchers found that genetic variations in two bitter taste receptor genes can explain differences in the perception of artificial sweeteners like Ace K. Additionally, studies on stevia extracts revealed that RebD is perceived as less bitter than RebA, suggesting potential opportunities for developing new sweeteners.

SourcePenn State·JournalChemical Senses·DateAug 20, 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.

Gestational diabetes tied to 7-fold increase in sleep apnea risk

A recent study found a strong association between gestational diabetes and sleep apnea in pregnant women. Women with gestational diabetes lost an hour of sleep each night, increasing their risk for stroke, cardiovascular disease and heart attacks.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 20, 2013

Study finds PHS gene that prevents wheat from sprouting

Researchers at Kansas State University have identified a PHS gene in wheat that prevents preharvest sprouting, a major cause of crop loss. The discovery provides a potential solution for the $1 billion annual industry losses associated with white wheat production.

SourceKansas State University·JournalGenetics·DateAug 20, 2013

Community intervention program reduces repeat intimate-partner violence

A community-based intervention program in North Carolina found that mothers who completed a mandatory IPV program were less likely to be re-victimized and more likely to leave abusive relationships. The program, MOVE, showed promising results, with a 96.5% reduction in physical abuse and an 84% decrease in psychological abuse.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalResearch on Social Work Practice·DateAug 20, 2013

The minimum age of criminal responsibility

The minimum age of criminal responsibility is a contentious issue in modern juvenile justice systems. Experts debate the age at which children are considered mature enough to be held responsible, with many arguing for reforms to the current laws and policies.

SourceSAGE·JournalYouth Justice·DateAug 20, 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.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Pewa temporarily weaken

Tropical Storm Pewa weakened temporarily due to adverse atmospheric conditions in the Northwestern Pacific. The storm's convection and thunderstorms have deepened, with cloud top temperatures reaching as low as -63F/-52C.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 20, 2013

The blushing shopper: Does it matter what else you put in the basket with the anti-gas medication?

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research suggests that shoppers should make more conscious choices about what to add to their shopping baskets. Researchers found that additional purchases can either attenuate or exacerbate embarrassment, depending on whether they counterbalance or complement embarrassing products. The findings h...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 20, 2013

Human foot not as unique as originally thought

Research at University of Liverpool reveals human feet retain surprising flexibility like those of great apes, contradicting long-held assumptions about arch development. The study suggests humans may have retained flexibility for effective coping with varied ground surfaces during long-distance walks and runs.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateAug 20, 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.

Gentemann to receive Falkenberg Award

Gentemann is recognized for her contributions to the quality of life, economic opportunities, and stewardship of the planet through Earth science information. Her research focuses on extracting geophysical variables from measurements of imaging microwave radiometers on earth observation satellites.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateAug 20, 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.

Epic ocean voyages of coral larvae revealed

A new simulation model reveals coral larvae's long-distance journeys across the world's seas, with some traveling up to 9,000 km. The study provides insights into coral reef distributions and potential effects of climate change.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateAug 20, 2013

Emergency rooms failing to meet seniors' needs

A new international study found that senior citizens face distinct challenges in emergency departments, including higher rates of dependency, cognitive impairment, and delirium. The study calls for staff training in geriatric care and specialized department layouts to better meet seniors' needs.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 20, 2013

Social giving makes us happier

Research finds that social connection enhances generosity by fostering positive feelings in donors. The study suggests that donors feel happiest when giving to a charity via a friend or relative rather than an anonymous donation. This research has implications for not-for-profit organizations seeking to maximize donations.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Happiness and Development·DateAug 20, 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.

Scientists uncover the secret life of frozen soils

Researchers studied the effects of winter processes on soil in seasonally frozen soils, finding that freeze-thaw cycles can impact agricultural productivity. The studies also shed light on the importance of understanding these processes for effective management practices.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Soil Science·DateAug 20, 2013

Traffic pollution and wood smoke increases asthma in adults

A new University of Melbourne-led study found that heavy traffic pollution and wood smoke from heaters significantly worsen asthma symptoms in middle-aged adults. The study revealed a 80% increase in symptoms for those exposed to heavy traffic pollution and an 11% increase for those exposed to wood smoke.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalRespirology·DateAug 20, 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.

Complications associated with continuous CSF drainage in patients with SAH

A randomized clinical trial found a significant increase in cerebral vasospasm and EVD-related complications when CSF was drained continuously in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The study, halted early due to high complication rates, suggests continuous drainage may not be the best method for intracranial pressure management.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateAug 20, 2013

Harmony: How do Vietnamese wedding planners manage to please everyone?

Researchers Thuc-Doan T. Nguyen and Russell W. Belk found that Vietnamese consumers achieve harmony by considering the needs of others while also prioritizing their own interests. Through a series of interviews, they discovered that Asian values such as long-term mutuality and family loyalty promote social harmony in wedding planning.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 20, 2013

New strategy tests for dangerous stage of tuberculosis in Asia

A new strategy developed at UC Davis Health System tests for telltale antibodies in the blood to detect tuberculosis, potentially improving treatment outcomes. The test can detect about 80% of active TB cases, making it a significant advancement in disease detection.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalClinical and Vaccine Immunology·DateAug 20, 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.

How sleep helps brain learn motor task

A new study by Brown University researchers found that sleep improves motor learning by changing fast-sigma and delta brainwave oscillations in the supplementary motor area. This reorganization is associated with improved speed and accuracy on sequential finger-tapping tasks after a few hours of sleep.

SourceBrown University·DateAug 20, 2013

New theory points to 'zombie vortices' as key step in star formation

Researchers at UC Berkeley propose that 'zombie vortices' play a crucial role in the birth of new stars. The team's computer models show how variations in gas density lead to instability, resulting in whirlpool-like vortices that help the star form.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 20, 2013

Multicenter trial finds BI-RADS 3 breast lesions have low cancer rate

A multicenter trial found that BI-RADS 3 breast lesions have a malignancy rate of 0.8%, with most cancers detected at 12-month follow-up imaging. The study suggests that extending the follow-up interval from six to 12 months for these lesions may reduce unnecessary biopsies and exams.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 20, 2013

'Groovy' hologram creates strange state of light

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a nanostructured hologram that controls the intensity, phase, and polarization of light rays. This innovation enables the creation of radially polarized beams, which are crucial for high-resolution lithography and particle manipulation.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 20, 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.

Guideline development for non-specialist mental health services in Nigeria

The WHO's Mental Health Gap Action Programme Intervention Guide (mhGAP-IG) was adapted for Nigeria to address the substantial treatment gap. The adaptation process involved a multi-step approach, including situational analysis, focus group discussions, and pilot testing, to contextualize the guide for the Nigerian context. The resultin...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 20, 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.

Study shows gypsum wallboard does not keep out carbon monoxide

A study by researchers found that gypsum wallboard allows carbon monoxide to diffuse through it. This could explain instances of CO poisoning in contiguous residences. The findings highlight the need for CO alarm use and education in homes with this type of wallboard.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 20, 2013

Low self-esteem consumers: When does standing out help you fit in?

Consumers with low self-esteem use brands to stand out and feel included, but also seek to distinguish themselves when feeling excluded. Companies can create brand communities and social media engagement to address these needs, appealing to both belongingness and differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 20, 2013

The Vikings were not the first colonizers of the Faroe Islands

Archaeological evidence suggests human colonization of the Faroe Islands took place between the 4th to 6th centuries AD, contradicting the traditional Viking narrative. This finding has implications for understanding the colonization of similar island groups worldwide.

SourceDurham University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateAug 20, 2013

Plasma-treated nano filters help purify world water supply

Researchers developed plasma-treated carbon nanotube membranes that can remove contaminants and brine from water effectively. These new membranes could be integrated into portable devices the size of a tea pot for efficient and inexpensive water purification.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 20, 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.

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.

HB-EGF protects intestines from a variety of injuries, pair of studies suggests

Recent studies suggest that HB-EGF can protect the intestines from various types of injury, including those caused by radiation therapy. The protein's ability to decrease harmful substance production and promote cell growth makes it a promising therapeutic option for treating necrotizing enterocolitis in newborns.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Pediatric Surgery·DateAug 20, 2013

'Holocaust journeys' can cause mental health problems

A new study led by Tel Aviv University researchers found that Holocaust education trips can cause mental health issues in Israeli teenagers, including anxiety, adjustment, and mood disorders. While most affected teens exhibited pre-existing risk factors, others experienced stressors like bullying during the trip.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAustralian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 20, 2013

Penn Medicine study shows survivorship care plans empower cancer patients

A Penn Medicine study reveals that survivorship care plans, such as the online LIVESTRONG Care Plan, fill a knowledge gap for cancer patients and improve health outcomes. The plans provide essential information on follow-up screenings, late effects of treatment, and lifestyle changes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCancer·DateAug 20, 2013