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Science News for August 26, 2013


Patients leaving hospital against medical advice more likely to be readmitted or die

A new study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that patients who leave hospital against their doctors' orders are more likely to be readmitted or die. The research, which analyzed over 1.9 million adult admissions, shows that leaving hospital against medical advice is associated with a higher risk of readmission and deat...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 26, 2013

4 cups of coffee a day may keep prostate cancer recurrence and progression away

Researchers found a 59% reduced risk of prostate cancer recurrence and/or progression in men who consumed four or more cups of coffee per day. The study suggests that bioactive compounds in coffee may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, but further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying the results.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateAug 26, 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.

Touch and movement neurons shape the brain's internal image of the body

Researchers found that tactile and motor neurons respond to visual cues, allowing for dynamic processing of the brain's internal spatial image. This discovery has implications for paralyzed individuals using neuroprosthetic limbs, suggesting a more integrated brain-body experience.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2013

Women at increasing risk of kidney stones, related ER visits

The study found a significant increase in women's risk of developing kidney stones, with more cases being seen in emergency departments over a four-year period. The rate of hospitalization remained stable, but the use of CT scans to diagnose kidney stones may contribute to the rise in emergency department charges.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateAug 26, 2013

Rethinking investment risk

A paper by MIT economist Alp Simsek suggests that financial innovation does not reduce portfolio risk, but instead raises it by spreading risk through new financial instruments and creating situations where parties hold opposing views. This can lead to increased average portfolio risks as speculative variance becomes dominant.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateAug 26, 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.

Why do haters have to hate?

Researchers have discovered a new dimension of personality known as dispositional attitude, which affects how individuals view and interact with the world. People with positive dispositional attitudes tend to be more open and like things, whereas those with negative attitudes are more likely to dislike things.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania Annenberg School for Communication·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 26, 2013

Language can reveal the invisible, study shows

Researchers used continuous flash suppression to render objects invisible and found that hearing the correct word boosted object visibility. Hearing an unmatched word suppressed it. The study suggests a deep connection between language and sensory perception.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2013

New, 'robust' treatment for stroke uses genetic material from bone marrow

Researchers have developed a novel treatment for stroke using exosomes containing genetic material from bone marrow stem cells, which significantly improved neurological function in lab rats. The treatment, tested on lab rats with induced stroke, showed gradual and eventually significant improvement over four weeks.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateAug 26, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sea otters promote recovery of seagrass beds

A study found that sea otter recolonization led to an increase in grazing invertebrates, which kept algae growth under control and allowed seagrasses to recover. The findings suggest that restoration of entire food webs may be necessary for coastal habitat recovery.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2013

Watching the production of new proteins in live cells

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new technique to visualize protein synthesis in live cells, enabling the study of complex biological processes such as long-term memory and disease mechanisms. The method harnesses deuterium-labeled amino acids to track newly synthesized proteins, providing unprecedented insights into...

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2013

New technique for measuring tree growth cuts down on research time

A new method of measuring tree growth has been developed, reducing research time by up to 20 minutes per tree. The innovative technique uses prefabricated cable-tie heads as collars on dendrometer bands, making it easier and safer to install than traditional methods.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateAug 26, 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.

Intervention appears effective to prevent weight gain among black women

A behavioral weight gain prevention intervention was effective in preventing weight gain among socioeconomically disadvantaged black women. The Shape Program, which included weekly self-monitoring and monthly counseling calls, resulted in a significant reduction in weight at 12 months compared to usual care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 26, 2013

NASA sees Depression Pewa pass in Pacific

Tropical Depression Pewa dissipated over the Pacific Ocean on August 26, 2013. NASA satellite data revealed a significant decrease in rainfall by August 25, indicating the storm's weakening. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasted this outcome, and further observations confirmed the depression's waning life.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 26, 2013

First report of real-time manipulation and control of nuclear spin noise

Researchers have demonstrated a method to create polarization order from random fluctuations, enabling enhanced sensitivity in nanometer-scale magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and potentially solid-state quantum computers. This achievement has the potential to revolutionize nano- and atomic-scale imaging techniques.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 26, 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.

Adapting to mainstream lowers diabetes risk in African-Americans

African-American children and teens who adapt to mainstream culture while maintaining their own identity can reduce stress and stress eating, lowering type 2 diabetes risk. Higher socioeconomic status does not necessarily protect against diabetes risk for Latino adolescents.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Obesity·DateAug 26, 2013

New screening strategy may catch ovarian cancer at early stages

A new screening strategy for ovarian cancer has shown high specificity in detecting the disease before it becomes lethal. The two-stage approach incorporates changes in a blood protein called CA125 and has been found to have a positive predictive value of 40% for invasive ovarian cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateAug 26, 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.

Grand Challenge grant awarded to team led by Nationwide Children's researcher

A multidisciplinary team led by Irina Buhimschi at Nationwide Children's Hospital has been awarded a Grand Challenge grant for their low-cost, paper-based urine test to diagnose preeclampsia. The test enables early diagnosis of the condition in resource-limited areas, reducing morbidity and mortality related to preeclampsia.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·DateAug 26, 2013

Genome-wide survey examines recessive alzheimer disease gene

A genome-wide survey has identified a significant association between regions of homozygosity (ROHs) and the etiology of Alzheimer disease in Caribbean Hispanics. The study found that ROHs could significantly contribute to AD in this population, with notable associations observed at specific genetic loci.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateAug 26, 2013

Mathematical models help locate raw materials

Raimon Tolosana-Delgado's mathematical models help understand rock formation and sediment development, crucial for predicting raw material locations. The prize recognizes his work on developing general models applicable to various raw materials, which could improve exploration and extraction efficiency.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·DateAug 26, 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.

Researchers develop software tool for cancer genomics

A new bioinformatics software tool, DrGaP, has been developed to identify genetic mutations responsible for cancers. The tool combines statistical methods and bioinformatics tools to distinguish between driver mutations and passenger mutations, leading to a more complete identification of altered genes and signaling pathways in cancer.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 26, 2013

Penn study finds earlier peak for Spain's glaciers

A study by University of Pennsylvania geologist Jane Willenbring and colleagues found that the local glacial maximum in southern Europe occurred earlier than expected, around 26,000 years ago. This discovery provides new insights into how regional climates have varied over time and could lead to more accurate global climate models.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 26, 2013

Thyroid cancer biopsy guidelines should be simplified, researchers say

A team of researchers from UCSF analyzed medical records and found that most thyroid nodules are benign, not malignant cancers. They suggest biopsying only patients with microcalcifications or large solid nodules over two centimeters in diameter to reduce unnecessary procedures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 26, 2013

NASA catches Tropical Storm Kong-Rey form in northwestern Pacific

Tropical Storm Kong-Rey has formed in the northwestern Pacific, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing its strengthening circulation. The storm is expected to bring scattered to widespread rain showers and thunderstorms to eastern Luzon, with sustained winds of 32-39 mph/52-63 kph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 26, 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.

Study forecasts future water levels of crucial agricultural aquifer

A recent study by Kansas State University predicts that the High Plains Aquifer will deplete to 69% by 50 years if current irrigation trends continue. Reducing water use could extend the aquifer's lifetime and increase net agricultural production until 2110.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2013

Sweaty palms and racing heart may benefit some negotiators

A new study published in Psychological Science found that physiological arousal can be beneficial for individuals who enjoy negotiation, but detrimental for those who dread it. The researchers suggest that the key is interpreting arousal as excitement rather than nervousness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 26, 2013

Drug blocks light sensors in eye that may trigger migraine attacks

A new molecule selectively blocks specialized light-sensitive receptors in the eyes, which could help treat migraines and potentially other disorders of the central nervous system. The drug also showed no interaction with rhodopsin or other opsins, making it a promising lead for research and potential clinical applications.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 26, 2013

Size matters as nanocrystals go through phases

Berkeley Lab researchers observed direct size-dependence in metal nanocrystal phase transformations during reactions with hydrogen gas. This discovery holds key findings for optimizing commercial applications, including hydrogen storage systems, catalysts, fuel cells, and batteries.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 26, 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.

Microneedle patch could replace standard tuberculosis skin test

A University of Washington team has developed a microneedle patch that can precisely deliver a tuberculosis test without user error. The patch uses biodegradable needles and has been shown to be as effective as the traditional skin test in detecting the infection.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateAug 26, 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.

Development of a therapeutic algorithm for optimal nosebleed management

Researchers analyzed 147 patients with epistaxis and found that chemical cautery was significantly successful in achieving lasting hemostasis. Nondissolvable packing demonstrated the highest rate of failure or recurrence for initial bleed management, while more invasive procedures led to better outcomes and shorter hospital stays.

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateAug 26, 2013

Changing river chemistry affects Eastern US water supplies

Researchers found two-thirds of Eastern US rivers have become more alkaline over 25-60 year periods, complicating drinking water treatment and harming aquatic ecosystems. Increased alkalinity also threatens metal pipe infrastructure and affects irrigated crops and fish.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 26, 2013

Pediatric readmission rates aren't indicator of hospital performance

A new study published in Pediatrics found that pediatric readmission and revisit rates are limited in their usefulness as a quality indicator for pediatric hospital care. The study suggests that grouping patients with similar diagnoses could improve the accuracy of readmission rates as a quality measurement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 26, 2013

Disabling enzyme reduces tumor growth, cripples cancer cells, finds new study

Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that inhibiting an enzyme can dramatically reduce tumor growth and aggressiveness in cancer cells. The study sheds light on the importance of lipids in cancer development and suggests a promising new target for cancer therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 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.

Rim Fire Update Aug. 26, 2013

The Rim Fire continues to burn in northeastern California, affecting over 224 square miles of land. The fire's size and spread are hampered by inaccessible terrain and extreme weather conditions, making containment efforts challenging.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 26, 2013

Scientists shut down reproductive ability, desire in pest insects

Researchers identified a neuropeptide named natalisin that controls reproductive ability and interest in mating in insects. The study found that knocking out natalisin in fruit flies reduced their reproductive capacity and decreased their desire for mating.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2013

Video games do not make vulnerable teens more violent

Researchers found a slight calming effect of violent video games on youths with attention deficit symptoms, reducing aggressive behavior. The study challenges the popular belief that violent video games increase aggression in vulnerable youth.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateAug 26, 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.

RNA double helix structure identified using synchrotron light

Researchers from McGill University have confirmed a 50-year-old hypothesis on the RNA double helix structure, revealing its potential applications in biological nanomaterials and supramolecular chemistry. The discovery may lead to new possibilities for genetic information storage and treatment of diseases like HIV and AIDS.

SourceCanadian Light Source, Inc.·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 26, 2013

Maintain, don't gain: A new way to fight obesity

A new study from Duke University finds that a 'maintain, don't gain' approach can be effective in preventing obesity-related health issues among premenopausal black women. By focusing on maintaining current weight, these women can reduce their likelihood of experiencing chronic diseases later in life.

SourceDuke University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 26, 2013

Task Force recommends that physicians counsel youth against tobacco use

The USPSTF recommends that primary care clinicians provide education or brief counseling to prevent tobacco use in school-aged children and adolescents. A systematic evidence review found that such interventions can reduce the risk of smoking initiation by 19% compared to control participants.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 26, 2013

Eastern US water supplies threatened by a legacy of acid rain

A new study reveals that the Eastern US is experiencing a significant increase in river alkalinity, with two-thirds of streams and rivers becoming more alkaline over the past 25 to 60 years. This rise in alkalinity can lead to water quality issues, harm aquatic life, and exacerbate salinization of freshwater.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 26, 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.

Comprehensive Parkinson's biomarker test has prognostic and diagnostic value

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have developed a comprehensive test for protein biomarkers in spinal fluid that shows prognostic and diagnostic value in early stages of Parkinson's disease. The study found that patients with lower levels of tau and alpha synuclein had greater motor dysfunction, while th...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateAug 26, 2013

New function for a well-known immune messenger molecule

Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered that IL-7 enhances lymphatic vessel drainage, a crucial function that could improve lymphedema treatment outcomes. This finding may help prevent or alleviate fluid accumulation and tissue swelling in patients with compromised lymphatic systems.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalBlood·DateAug 26, 2013

Chelyabinsk meteorite had previous collision or near miss

Research on Chelyabinsk meteorite fragments reveals evidence of intensive melting process, likely caused by a collision or proximity to the Sun. The dark fragments contain spherical 'bubbles' and platinum group elements, which are unusual for their formation time period.

SourceEuropean Association of Geochemistry·DateAug 26, 2013
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.

Study examines cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in early Parkinson disease

Researchers analyzed cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in patients with early-stage Parkinson's disease (PD) and healthy controls. Lower levels of Alzheimer's beta-1-42 and tau proteins were found in PD patients, associated with motor severity. The study suggests that these biomarkers have prognostic potential for early-stage PD.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateAug 26, 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.

Not guility: Parkinson and protein phosphorylation

Researchers find that protein phosphorylation slows down Parkinson's disease, contradicting the assumption that it triggers toxic aggregates. The study suggests a new approach for therapeutic development.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2013

Wait times up 78 percent at VA for colorectal cancer procedures

A study found wait times for colorectal cancer operations at VA hospitals rose to 32 days, but researchers believe longer waits may be due to improved care and outcomes. The study suggests that more careful care is worth the wait, even if it means delayed treatment.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateAug 26, 2013

Shopping in high heels could curb overspending

A recent study by Brigham Young University found that shopping in high heels can lead to more mindful consumer choices, resulting in a balanced approach between high-end and low-end products. By introducing physical sensations of balance, consumers are more likely to weigh options and avoid extreme spending

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateAug 26, 2013

NASA sees quick forming Tropical Storm Fernand soaking Mexico

Tropical Storm Fernand formed rapidly over Mexico, with NASA's TRMM satellite detecting towering thunderstorms and heavy rainfall rates exceeding 2 inches per hour. The storm's maximum sustained winds were near 50 mph at landfall, causing significant flooding and threatening life-threatening flash floods.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 26, 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 implanted defibrillator works well without touching heart

Researchers have developed a new subcutaneous implantable cardiac defibrillator (S-ICD) that detects abnormal heart rhythms and delivers shocks without wires touching the heart. The device has shown promising results in a 33-site study, with 99% of patients remaining complication-free 180 days after implantation.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 26, 2013

Skin cell defect is surprising allergy trigger

A structural defect in skin cells, specifically desmoglein 1, contributes to allergy development, including skin and food allergies. This finding could lead to a better understanding of the importance of other structural proteins in the skin barrier.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 26, 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.

Perception of marijuana as a 'safe drug' is scientifically inaccurate

Researchers at the University of Montreal found that cannabis use during adolescence is associated with increased risk of addiction and mental health problems. The study suggests that specific genetic and behavioral factors influence an individual's likelihood of developing a dependence on cannabis.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateAug 26, 2013