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Science News Archive August 2013 - Page 15


Page 15 of 29
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rice U. biophysicists zoom in on pore-forming toxin

Researchers have gained a comprehensive understanding of melittin's molecular-level action, which involves opening pores in cell membranes to attack cancer and bacteria. The study sheds light on how melittin forms transient pores at low concentrations and stable pores at higher concentrations.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2013

Bacteria in drinking water are key to keeping it clean

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have identified four bacteria found in drinking water that can form biofilms on pipes. Combining these bacteria with Methylobacterium produces a biofilm within 72 hours. The study suggests targeting specific bacteria could prevent biofilm formation and reduce chemical treatments.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalWater Science & Technology·DateAug 14, 2013

Ostrich necks reveal sauropod movements, food habits

A new analysis of ostriches suggests that sauropod neck flexibility was probably lower than previously estimated due to the impact of soft tissues like muscle and cartilage. This reduced flexibility may have restricted the range of foods these dinosaurs could reach, leading to more active foraging.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 14, 2013

Raising the IQ of smart windows

Researchers have designed a new material that can dynamically modify sunlight as it passes through a window, maximizing both energy savings and occupant comfort. The coating provides selective control over visible light and heat-producing near-infrared (NIR) light.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 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.

Extreme weather events fuel climate change

Researchers found that extreme weather events like droughts, heat waves, and storms reduce the amount of carbon absorbed by terrestrial ecosystems, equivalent to about a third of global CO2 emissions per year. Satellites and recording stations documented the effects of these events on forests, bogs, and grasslands.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2013

2 left feet? Study looks to demystify why we lose our balance

Researchers at the University of Michigan used an electroencephalogram to study how the brain responds to a fall. They found that many areas of the brain sense and respond to a fall, but this happens well before the muscles react. The study aims to improve understanding of falls in the elderly and potentially prevent them.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateAug 14, 2013

Teleported by electronic circuit

Physicists at ETH Zurich have successfully teleported information across a distance of six millimeters using a solid state system. This achievement demonstrates the potential for quantum communication and may lead to faster and more efficient quantum computing in the future.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 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.

How bacteria found in mouth may cause colorectal cancer

Two studies link fusobacteria from mouth to colorectal cancer formation by stimulating bad immune responses and activating cancer growth genes. Fusobacteria rely on FadA molecule to attach to and invade human cells, promoting tumor growth.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 14, 2013

Newly found pulsar helps astronomers explore Milky Way's mysterious core

Astronomers have measured the magnetic field emanating from a swirling disk of material surrounding the black hole at the center of our Milky Way Galaxy. The measurement, made by observing a recently-discovered pulsar, is providing a powerful new tool for studying the mysterious region at the core of our home galaxy.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 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.

Lymph nodes with location memory

Researchers at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research found that lymph nodes in certain locations produce more regulatory T cells, which mediate tolerance to harmless substances. This 'location-specific memory' is crucial for maintaining the balance of the immune system and preventing autoimmune diseases.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateAug 14, 2013

Radiation detection to go

The Mobile Radiation Detection and Identification System (MRDIS) enables scanning of transshipped containers, making it difficult for terrorists to smuggle radioactive materials. Eight MRDIS units have been deployed worldwide, with plans to expand to two international airports next year.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateAug 14, 2013

Visualized heartbeat can trigger 'out-of-body experience'

Researchers used visual projections of human heartbeats to alter subjects' perception of their body, inducing an out-of-body experience. The study suggests a novel approach to treating self-perception disorders like anorexia and body dysmorphic disorder.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 14, 2013

Spicing up your fish fillets with science

Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan found that adding coriander oil to vegetable oil-based diets increases EPA and DHA levels in rainbow trout fillets. This alternative method reduces reliance on fish oil, promoting aquaculture sustainability and creating new market opportunities for spice growers.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Animal Science·DateAug 14, 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.

Neutron studies of HIV inhibitors reveal new areas for improvement

A recent neutron study has revealed that HIV inhibitors have only two strong hydrogen bonds, presenting opportunities for improvement through structural changes and strengthening the binding. This discovery may also help address drug resistance by increasing the effectiveness of drugs and reducing dosages.

SourceGeorgia State University·DateAug 14, 2013

Children exposed to lead 3 times more likely to be suspended from school

A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that children exposed to lead are nearly three times more likely to be suspended from school by the 4th grade. This highlights a significant disparity in school discipline, with African-American students facing a notable disadvantage.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateAug 14, 2013

Forensic familial search methods carry risk of certain false matches

Research finds that DNA-based familial search techniques can mistakenly identify second cousins and half-siblings as siblings, with a 3-18% chance of error for first cousins and up to 42% for half-siblings. This misidentification can lead to unnecessary investigations and exacerbate ethical concerns surrounding the use of these methods.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 14, 2013

Advancing resistive memory to improve portable electronics

A team at UC Riverside developed a novel way to build resistive memory devices that can store terabytes of data, replacing current flash memory. The new technology uses zinc oxide nano-islands on silicon, eliminating the need for a separate selector device.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 14, 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.

Cancer's origins revealed

A comprehensive compendium of mutational processes explains most mutations found in 30 common cancer types, revealing the biological processes responsible. The study identifies a family of enzymes linked to over half of cancer types, and finds that DNA damage from viruses may cause collateral genetic changes.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2013

Medicaid program improves maternal, infant care

A study by Michigan State University found that participation in a Medicaid-eligible pregnant women's program leads to improved health care during pregnancy and after birth. Women in the program had 25% more postnatal visits than those not enrolled, promoting healthy pregnancies and infant outcomes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 14, 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.

Cattle can be a source of MRSA in people, scientists find

A new study found that a type of MRSA originated in cattle at least 40 years ago, with genetic evidence tracing two subtypes back to farm animals. Researchers suggest direct contact between people and livestock may have transmitted the bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalmBio·DateAug 14, 2013

Watermelon juice relieves post-exercise muscle soreness

A new study found that watermelon juice enriched in L-citrulline relieves post-exercise muscle soreness. The natural juice also showed potential benefits, although L-citrulline was more bioavailable.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 14, 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.

Flexible throughout life by varying numbers of chromosome copies

Researchers found yeast cells can multiply up to six of their chromosomes during cell division and reverse this process, allowing for rapid adaptation to environmental conditions. This discovery provides a new model organism for studying aneuploidy and its potential implications for diagnosing and treating human diseases.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2013

UGA researchers use nanoparticles to fight cancer

Researchers at UGA are developing a new treatment technique that uses nanoparticles to stimulate the immune system against breast cancer cells. By targeting mitochondria and activating dendritic cells, they can produce high levels of chemical signals that alert the immune system to attack cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 14, 2013

UT Arlington researcher finds that money motivates employees to lose weight

A study by UT Arlington researcher Joshua Price found that financial incentives can encourage employees to lose weight. The most effective payment structure was a refundable participation fee, which led to the greatest weight loss outcomes. Regular payments seemed to work as a reinforcement for people to continue losing weight.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateAug 14, 2013

Post-traumatic stress disorder in a rescue group after the Wenchuan earthquake relief

A recent study examined post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a group of 1,040 rescue workers who participated in the Wenchuan earthquake relief. The findings indicate that PTSD was diagnosed in 64% of the participants, primarily due to factors such as near-death experience, severe injury or mental trauma, and low social support.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 14, 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.

Heat waves to become more frequent and severe

Researchers project heat waves will increase in frequency and severity, covering 85% of the global land area by 2100 under a high emission scenario. The study found that extreme heat waves will be more damaging to society and ecosystems, causing heat-related deaths, forest fires, and losses to agricultural production.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 14, 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.

Preterm babies at risk for later cognitive difficulties

A $3 million NIH grant will fund a longitudinal study tracking preterm children's cognitive development from preschool to grade school. Healthy preterm babies are at high risk for lower academic achievement, especially in math.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 14, 2013

Can solar energy help save Greece?

A new analysis suggests that Greece's renewable energy programs, particularly solar, could lower domestic energy costs and provide an export commodity to aid in the country's economic recovery. However, addressing public concerns about foreign involvement is crucial for realizing solar's potential.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateAug 14, 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.

Prostate cancer screening: New data support watchful waiting

A study found that prostate cancer aggressiveness is established at tumor formation and does not change over time. The proportion of patients diagnosed with advanced-stage cancers decreased by more than six-fold after widespread PSA screening, while high Gleason grade cancers remained stable.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 14, 2013

Facebook use predicts declines in happiness, new study finds

A new University of Michigan study found that Facebook use predicts declines in a user's well-being, undermining their social connection needs. In contrast, direct interactions with other people on the platform led participants to feel better over time.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 14, 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.

Pilot study finds ER patients drinking high-octane beer

A pilot study at a Johns Hopkins hospital emergency department found that ER patients consume high-octane beers in large quantities. The study analyzed data from 105 respondents and compared it to national market share data.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateAug 14, 2013

Around the world in 4 days: NASA tracks Chelyabinsk meteor plume

Scientists tracked the Chelyabinsk meteor plume using NASA satellite data, observing its formation of a thin stratospheric dust belt. The plume evolved as it moved around the Northern Hemisphere, with different particles experiencing varying wind speeds.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 14, 2013

Targeting aggressive prostate cancer

A collaborative study identifies PRNCR1 and PCGEM1 as long non-coding RNAs that activate androgen receptors, leading to cancer growth and resistance to treatment. The study provides a new target for therapies and offers hope for developing more effective treatments for aggressive prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 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.

Growing use of MRIs leading to more invasive breast cancer surgery

A study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found a significant increase in preoperative breast MRI use among older women with breast cancer, leading to more aggressive surgical treatment. Women who received an MRI were more likely to undergo bilateral mastectomy and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy.

SourceYale University·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateAug 14, 2013

Extreme weather, climate and the carbon cycle

A study published in Nature reveals that extreme weather events, such as droughts and heatwaves, significantly reduce the global vegetation's ability to sequester carbon. This reduction can have a lasting impact on the global climate and long-term food security.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2013

CPAP reduces risk of death in people with COPD and sleep apnea

A new study finds that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy significantly reduces the risk of death in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, analyzed data from 3,396 patients who used CPAP for at least t...

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateAug 14, 2013

Researchers study selenium's effects on horses

A new study by the American Society of Animal Science found that adult horses with low selenium levels have suppressed cell-mediated immunity, while antibody production remained unaffected. The researchers aimed to understand how different levels of selenium affect the immune system in horses.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateAug 14, 2013

Do academic rankings create inequality?

A study by Michigan State University scholars questions whether global rankings fuel competition at the expense of financial stability and accessibility in higher education. The researchers found that universities receiving more federal research money tend to score higher in Shanghai rankings.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMinerva·DateAug 14, 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.

2 Tufts biomedical graduate students awarded HHMI research fellowships

Two Tufts University biomedical graduate students, Seblewongel Asrat and Jennifer Nwankwo, have been awarded HHMI International Student Research Fellowships to study Legionnaires' disease and sickle cell disease. The fellowships provide $43,000 in funding for the first year, with renewal opportunities for two additional years.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·DateAug 14, 2013