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Science News Archive August 2013 - Page 16


Page 16 of 29

Study explains early warming of West Antarctica at end of last ice age

A new study published in Nature reveals that West Antarctica began emerging from the last ice age about 22,000 years ago, earlier than previously thought. The research found that changes in solar energy triggered warming of the region, which was amplified by the release of CO2 from the Southern Ocean.

SourceOregon State University·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.

NTU-led research shows Burmese long-tailed macaques' ability using stone tools threatened by human activity in Thailand

A study led by Singapore's Nanyang Technological University found that Burmese long-tailed macaques' ability to use stone tools is under threat due to human farming and domestic dog introduction. The researchers advise Thailand's authorities to protect the animals' tool-using traditions in marine national parks.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalOryx·DateAug 14, 2013

E-Health services ill-prepared for epidemics

E-health systems face a significant disruption due to inadequate adoption, leading to ineffective response to pandemic diseases like influenza. A multi-pronged approach is proposed to assess preparedness, identify gaps, and implement necessary technology and protocols.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Technology·DateAug 14, 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.

Multifold increase in heat extremes by 2040

By 2040, heat extremes are expected to increase substantially due to climate change, affecting 85% of the global land area. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions could prevent this, but current trends suggest a near-term inevitability.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 14, 2013

Earth orbit changes key to Antarctic warming that ended last ice age

New research shows Antarctic warming began at least two millennia earlier than previously thought, contradicting the long-held idea of a passive continent. The findings suggest that changes in Earth's orbit may not have been as influential in driving climate change as once believed.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Astronomers show galaxies had 'mature' shapes 11.5 billion years ago

Researchers have found that mature-looking galaxies existed 11.5 billion years ago, pushing back the timeline of galaxy formation by 2.5 billion years. This discovery confirms the Hubble Sequence, a classification system used to describe galaxy morphology, even at early stages of the universe's history.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 14, 2013

Brain scans could predict response to antipsychotic medication

Researchers identified neuroimaging markers in the brain that can help predict which people with psychosis will respond to antipsychotic medications. Cortical folding defects were found in individuals who did not respond to treatment, while those who responded had brain structures similar to healthy controls.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateAug 14, 2013

How will crops fare under climate change? Depends on how you ask

Research at Princeton University compares agricultural projections from empirical and mechanistic models, finding that empirical models may show greater losses as a result of climate change, while mechanistic models may be overly optimistic. The study highlights the importance of understanding model biases and using both model classes ...

SourcePrinceton University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·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.

Many neurologists unaware of safety risks related to anti-epilepsy drugs

A study found that a fifth of US neurologists are unaware of serious drug safety risks associated with anti-epilepsy drugs, which can jeopardize patient health. The researchers suggest better communication from the FDA to specialists and more systematic methods for doctors to receive updated safety warnings.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEpilepsy & Behavior·DateAug 14, 2013

Miao Yu receives Howard Hughes Medical Institute fellowship

Miao Yu, a chemistry graduate student at University of Chicago, has received an International Predoctoral Student Research Fellowship from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. She will receive $43,000 annually for up to three years to support her research on DNA modifications.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateAug 14, 2013

A magnetar at the heart of our Milky Way

Researchers have discovered a magnetar at the centre of our Milky Way, providing insights into the strong magnetic field surrounding the supermassive black hole. The discovery enables scientists to study the accretion flow and X-ray emissions of the gravity trap.

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

6 months of fish oil reverses liver disease in children with intestinal failure, study shows

A new study found that replacing soybean oil with fish oil in intravenous nutrition can reverse intestinal failure-associated liver disease in children. After 17 weeks, nearly 80% of patients experienced a reversal of their liver disease, while only 5% of those who received soybean oil saw a reversal.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateAug 14, 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.

A new sense of urgency for energy cane and other energy crops

Energy cane and other energy crops have the potential to yield up to 5 times more ethanol per acre than corn, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional sources. However, their viability is threatened by the abundance of cheap shale gas, which could make it difficult for biobased feedstocks to compete.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 14, 2013

Probiotics do not prevent relapse in Crohn's disease patients

A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that probiotic Saccharomuces boulardii does not prevent clinical relapse in patients with Crohn's disease. The one-year follow-up period showed similar rates of relapse between patients treated with S. boulardii or placebo.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateAug 14, 2013

Warming climate pushes plants up the mountain

A University of Arizona-led study has provided the first on-the-ground evidence that Southwestern plants are being pushed to higher elevations by an increasingly warmer and drier climate. Plant communities were found to be different 50 years ago due to individual species shifting their ranges independently.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateAug 14, 2013

University of East Anglia research could contain infectious disease outbreaks

Researchers at UEA identified four high-risk stages in the poultry trade chain that transmit H5N1 virus to humans and other birds, including transportation, slaughter, and consumption. The study suggests adopting Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points (HACCP) system as a rapid response to emerging outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·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.

How neurons get wired

Researchers found that embryonic nerve cells use two versions of a signaling molecule to determine which end is the axon and which is the dendrite. This discovery could help improve therapies for spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

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

Chemophobia shouldn't be on the menu

A new Dartmouth study finds that many people fear low amounts of chemicals in their food, despite being inherently harmless and often beneficial. The study argues that regulators should focus on pathogens and bacteria rather than pesticides and synthetic chemicals.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalFood Security·DateAug 14, 2013

Pretreating aggressive lymphoma with targeted therapy improves chemo effectiveness

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine discovered that pretreating patients with low doses of azacitidine, a targeted drug, can enhance chemotherapy's ability to kill cancer cells. This approach has the potential to change the standard of care for patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and may be applicable to other tumor types.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCancer Discovery·DateAug 14, 2013

McMaster University study debunks controversial MS theory

A McMaster University study published in PLOS ONE found no abnormalities in the veins of MS patients, contradicting a popular CCSVI theory. The research examined 100 MS patients and 100 healthy controls, using ultrasound and MRI to test for venous blockages.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPLOS ONE·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.

Using fire to manage fire-prone regions around the world

The article explores the use of prescribed burning in various regions, including the US, Australia, South America, and southern Europe, to manage fire-prone landscapes. It highlights successful traditional practices, such as the Maya milpa in South America, which create spaces for different crops while sustaining wildlife and soil fert...

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateAug 14, 2013

Urgent! How genes tell cellular construction crews, 'Read me now!'

A new study reveals that DNA sequences at the beginning of genes in fruit flies contain complex instructions for RNA polymerases to read and transcribe essential genes. The findings suggest that these instructions play a crucial role in regulating gene expression during early embryonic development.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·DateAug 13, 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.

UCSB anthropologists study testosterone spikes in non-competitive activities

UCSB researchers found that tree chopping increases testosterone levels more than soccer, improving muscle energy and performance. The study suggests that Tsimane men maintain high testosterone levels due to their physically demanding lifestyle, contrary to industrialized populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateAug 13, 2013

People prefer products that help them 'save face' in embarrassing moments

A study published in Psychological Science found that people who experience embarrassment are more likely to choose items that hide or restore their face, effectively helping them save face. The research highlights the unconscious influence of metaphorical thinking on everyday behaviors.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 13, 2013

High-angle helix helps bacteria swim

Researchers from Brown University and the University of Wisconsin discovered that a high-angle helix enables bacteria to swim faster in viscoelastic fluids, clearing up previously conflicting findings. The study's findings have implications for understanding bacterial infection and fertility.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 13, 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.

New strategy to disarm the dengue virus brings new hope for a universal dengue vaccine

Scientists have discovered a new strategy that cripples the dengue virus's ability to escape the host immune system. By introducing a genetic mutation to deactivate the MTase enzyme, researchers created a weakened virus that generates a strong protective immune response while preventing the virus from spreading in mosquitoes.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 13, 2013

Researchers slow light to a crawl in liquid crystal matrix

Scientists have developed a new technique to slow down light by embedding dye molecules in a liquid crystal matrix, allowing for more efficient sensing and interferometry applications. The method uses little power, operates at room temperature, and can measure extremely low speeds in just one second of measurement time.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateAug 13, 2013

Mediterranean diet counteracts a genetic risk of stroke, study reports

A recent study found that a Mediterranean diet pattern can prevent stroke in individuals with a genetic variant associated with type 2 diabetes. The researchers discovered that adherence to the Mediterranean diet compensated for the increased risk of stroke in those with two copies of the gene variant, reducing their susceptibility.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalDiabetes Care·DateAug 13, 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.

Highest winter losses in recent years for honey bees in Scotland

The University of Strathclyde's research reveals a significant increase in honey bee colony losses in Scotland, with 31.3% of managed colonies failing to survive last winter. The loss rate is almost double the previous year and has major implications for crop pollination and food supply.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·DateAug 13, 2013

Meal timing can significantly improve fertility in women with polycystic ovaries

A study published in Clinical Science found that a meal plan prioritizing breakfast intake can reduce insulin resistance, lower testosterone levels, and increase ovulation frequency in women with PCOS. This natural therapy may provide new hope for those struggling with fertility issues associated with the disorder.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalClinical Science·DateAug 13, 2013

LGBT identity data in health records would improve care, reduce disparities

Researchers emphasize the need for more data on LGBT health and health disparities. The study suggests that including sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) information in electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate improved quality and outcomes of healthcare services for LGBT individuals.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateAug 13, 2013

Study examines incidence of sports-related sudden death in France

A French study found a significantly lower incidence of sports-related sudden death in women compared to men. The average age of sudden death was also lower for women. The study estimates an incidence rate of 0.51 per million female sports participants, highlighting the need for tailored screening strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 13, 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.

Virus-derived particles target blood cancer

Researchers have developed unique virus-derived particles that can kill human blood cancer cells in the laboratory and eradicate the disease in mice. These non-replicating particles, derived from rhabdovirus, work by direct cytolysis and induction of antitumor immunity, showing promise as a new therapy for leukemia.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalBlood Cancer Journal·DateAug 13, 2013

First direct evidence of HPV-related tonsillar cancer on the rise in Canada

A study published in Current Oncology has confirmed an epidemic of HPV-related tonsillar cancer in Canada, with a significant increase in cases over the past few decades. The research found that young non-smokers are most commonly affected, and treatment has evolved to include concurrent chemotherapy and radiation.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalCurrent Oncology·DateAug 13, 2013

ORNL finding goes beyond surface of oxide films

Researchers found that complex oxide films remain stable with reduced oxygen levels at the surface, contrary to expected changes. This discovery has implications for designing functional oxides in consumer products like batteries and electronic devices.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNanoscale·DateAug 13, 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.

New compound prevents first steps of fungal infection

A team of researchers discovered a chemical compound called filastatin that prevents fungal cells from adhering to surfaces, which is the first step of fungal infections. The compound has shown significant protective effects without toxicity to human tissues.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2013

Chronicling cancer experience online can reduce depressive symptoms in breast cancer patients

A UCLA study found that women diagnosed with breast cancer who created personal websites experienced reduced depressive symptoms, improved mood, and increased appreciation for life. The project, Project Connect Online, provided a platform for breast cancer patients to share their experiences and connect with friends and family online.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 13, 2013

Canine distemper virus: An emerging disease in rare Amur tigers

A study found that CDV infected at least 1% of Amur tigers since 2009, causing fatal neurological disease. The virus is spread through contact with domestic dogs or other wild carnivores, posing a significant threat to the critically endangered species.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateAug 13, 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.

NIH funds research to explore a cell communication process

The NIH awards $17 million for research projects exploring the emerging field of extracellular RNA communication. Scientists will investigate exRNA's role in diseases, develop biomarkers, and create new treatments. The goal is to unlock exRNA's potential for diagnostics and therapeutics.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateAug 13, 2013

Wildfires in central Canada

In central Canada, wildfires have burned over half a million acres, with 508 new fires starting in the past week. Most of these fires were concentrated in British Columbia and Saskatchewan, with areas of high to extreme fire danger reported.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 13, 2013

Who benefits from vitamin D?

A recent University of Eastern Finland study found that individuals whose expression of certain genes was not altered by vitamin D supplementation may already have a sufficient level of serum vitamin D or be disturbed in their vitamin D utilization. The researchers believe this approach can help identify potential beneficiaries of long...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 13, 2013