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Science News Archive August 2013 - Page 2


Page 2 of 29

Collagen clue reveals new drug target for untreatable form of lung cancer

Researchers have identified a new potential treatment for squamous cell lung cancer by targeting a specific protein called DDR2, which interacts with collagen to protect against cancer growth. The findings could lead to the development of targeted therapies for this previously untreatable form of lung cancer.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalBiochemical Journal·DateAug 29, 2013

Dieting for obese mothers just before pregnancy may not be enough

New research published in The FASEB Journal found that dieting prior to or at conception can be detrimental, leading to poor metabolic consequences for the offspring. Epigenetic damage might have already been done, even if weight loss occurs just before conception.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 29, 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.

Compounds point the way to cancer's dependencies

The Broad Institute's Cancer Therapeutics Response Portal (CTRP) has launched to match patients with potentially effective drugs. Researchers can use the portal to find therapeutically exploitable vulnerabilities in different cancer types, identifying genes that may provide new therapeutic targets.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell·DateAug 29, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Your spouse's voice is easier to hear -- and easier to ignore

Research suggests that familiar voices sharpen auditory perception and help individuals focus on one voice at a time. Middle-aged adults can use familiarity to ignore their spouse's voice and better understand unfamiliar voices, while older adults struggle with this task.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 29, 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.

Young whoopers stay the course when they follow a wise old bird

A University of Maryland-led research team found that young whooping cranes learn their migration route from older birds and get better at it with age. The study shows that individual birds' ability to stick to the route increases steadily each year up to about age 5, and remains roughly constant from that point on.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2013

Rim Fire update Aug. 29, 2013

The Rim Fire in California has burned over 192,000 acres, with 30% containment achieved through aircraft and water/chemical dumping. Large burnout operations are planned for the southeastern edge of the fire in Yosemite National Park, hampered by remote terrain and extreme fire behavior.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 29, 2013

Spider venom reveals new secret

University of Arizona researchers have discovered a new secret in spider venom, finding that the venom produces a different chemical product in the human body than previously thought. This discovery has implications for understanding how brown recluse spider bites affect humans and developing possible treatments.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 29, 2013

Tracking Huntington's disease through brain metabolism

A study has identified a metabolic network associated with Huntington's disease progression, allowing for predictive assessment of time to symptom onset. This discovery provides biomarkers for evaluating disease progression in carriers and supports the incorporation of this assessment into clinical trials.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 29, 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.

'Safe' levels of environmental pollution may have long-term health consequences

Research suggests that lifelong exposure to low levels of food contaminants can lead to metabolic diseases, with females showing a deterioration in glucose tolerance and liver-related changes. The study highlights the potential impact of pollutants on public health when combined in realistic mixtures.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 29, 2013

Human heart disease recently found in chimpanzees

A new study finds Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, a human heart disease, in chimpanzees. The condition was detected in two half-brother chimps who died suddenly during physical exertion at a UK zoo.

SourceSAGE·JournalVeterinary Pathology·DateAug 29, 2013

Genomic study: Why children in remission from rheumatoid arthritis experience recurrences

A new genomic characterization of remission in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis patients reveals that their immune systems remain perturbed even during symptom-free periods. The study highlights the importance of HNF4a as a master switch regulating therapeutic response, and its potential to inform personalized treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateAug 29, 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.

Sea-level rise drives shoreline retreat in Hawaii

A study from the University of Hawaii – SOEST found that sea-level rise is a primary driver of shoreline change in Hawaii, with historical rates of erosion being about two orders of magnitude greater than SLR. The research highlights the importance of targeting SLR impacts in coastal zone decision-making and planning.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalGlobal and Planetary Change·DateAug 29, 2013

NAMS issues new guidance on vulvovaginal atrophy

The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) has published new guidance for diagnosing and treating vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), a condition affecting up to 45% of women after menopause. The guidance emphasizes the importance of effective treatments, including simple vaginal lubricants, estrogen therapy, and nonhormonal options.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateAug 29, 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.

Cell study offers more diabetic patients chance of transplant

Researchers developed a way to change pancreatic cells to produce insulin, reducing the need for two pancreas donations for successful islet cell transplants. This breakthrough could save months of waiting time for Type 1 diabetes patients and make more organs available.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalDiabetes·DateAug 29, 2013

New PRA gene identified in Phalenes and Papillons

A new PRA gene has been identified in the Phalene and Papillon dog breeds, causing progressive blindness in dogs. The CNGB1 mutation is linked to human retinitis pigmentosa, highlighting the shared genetic etiology of canine and human diseases. Genetic testing can help breeders avoid affected puppies and provide a diagnostic tool.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 29, 2013

Transparent artificial muscle plays Grieg to prove a point

A transparent disk using a saltwater gel and ionic conductor produces sounds across the entire audible spectrum, demonstrating capabilities of ionic conductors. This technology has potential applications in biomedical devices, fast-moving robotics, and adaptive optics.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 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.

2013 Avant-Garde Awards explore HIV without AIDS, protective genes

Three NIH scientists, Drs. Warner Greene, Richard Sutton, and Timothy Cardozo, receive $500,000 each to support groundbreaking HIV/AIDS research. Their projects focus on modifying the immune response to prevent further CD4 T-cell loss, identifying protective genes against HIV infection, and developing a combined cocaine/HIV vaccine.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·DateAug 29, 2013

Adding blood pressure drug to standard antibiotics speeds up TB treatment

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that a blood pressure medication speeds up TB treatment in mice, potentially making it easier for infected people to complete their therapy. The study suggests verapamil, commonly used to treat high blood pressure and headaches, could be an effective add-on therapy when combined with standard...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 29, 2013

Socioeconomic status a significant barrier to living kidney donation for African Americans

A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that African Americans with lower incomes have lower rates of living kidney donation compared to White Americans. However, among high-income African Americans, they actually have higher rates of donation. The findings highlight the importance of targeting soci...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 29, 2013

Alcohol breaks brain connections needed to process social cues

Researchers found that alcohol intoxication reduces coupling between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, impairing ability to accurately appraise environment and respond to social signals. This study provides insight into maladaptive behaviors seen in alcohol intoxication, including social disinhibition and aggression.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateAug 29, 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.

Where can coral reefs relocate to escape the heat?

Computer models predict coral reef ecosystem shifts due to warming and acidification, with the Western Pacific becoming less suitable by 2070. Coral Triangle biodiversity is also at risk, while some areas like the eastern Pacific may remain suitable.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 29, 2013

UCSB study examines heavy metal pollutants in fish at oil platforms and natural sites

A recent UCSB study analyzed whole-body fish samples from oil-and-gas production platforms and natural sites for heavy metal pollutants. The results showed that most elements were consistently present at both types of locations, with some species exhibiting varying levels of pollutants between juveniles and adults.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalBulletin of Marine Science·DateAug 29, 2013

Digesting milk in Ethiopia: A case of multiple genetic adaptations

A team of geneticists identified five different alleles in the Ethiopian population that cause adult lactase production, highlighting a soft selective sweep. This phenomenon allows individuals to digest milk via different mutations, increasing their chances of survival under scarce food conditions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 29, 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.

Single gene change increases mouse lifespan by 20 percent

Researchers extended mouse lifespan by 20% through gene manipulation, with some organs aging better than others. This increase is equivalent to a 16-year boost in human lifespan, offering insights into aging and potential therapies for age-related diseases.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 29, 2013

New medical conditions more likely to spark healthy changes among better-educated middle-aged people

A new study finds that better-educated middle-aged Americans are more inclined to make healthy behavior changes in response to new medical conditions. The research reveals significant differences in health habits between education levels, with college graduates more likely to quit smoking and engage in physical activity.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateAug 29, 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.

Simple urine test may help identify individuals with diabetes at risk for cognitive decline

A recent study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that individuals with type 2 diabetes and normal kidney function who have persistent albuminuria (protein in the urine) are at a greater risk for cognitive decline. The study, which followed 2977 diabetics over four to five years, showed that t...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 29, 2013

Men feel worse about themselves when female partners succeed, says new research

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that men subconsciously feel worse about themselves when their female partner succeeds, regardless of whether they excel or fail in a specific area. Women's self-esteem, however, is not affected by their male partners' successes or failures.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 29, 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.

Study identifies better blood glucose monitor for burn care

A pilot study by UC Davis researchers found that glucose monitoring systems with an autocorrect feature can produce more accurate blood glucose measurements, improving insulin dosing and glucose control for burn patients. This technology can help reduce mortality and morbidity in these patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Burn Care & Research·DateAug 29, 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.

Call for President Obama to 'remove public veil of ignorance' around state of US health

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health call for President Obama to create a National Commission on the Health of Americans to address the country's declining health status. The US ranks last among peer nations in health, with high rates of adverse birth outcomes, heart disease, and infant mortality.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 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.

The price of poverty

Researcher Sendhil Mullainathan discovers that poverty's financial constraints can lead to significant cognitive deficits, affecting IQ and impulse control. The 'cognitive tax' caused by poverty can result in reduced adherence to medication regimens, among other behaviors.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2013

Bad to the bone: some breast cancer cells are primed to thrive

Researchers found that certain genes, such as CXCL12 and IGF1, make breast cancer cells more likely to survive in bone tissue by mimicking the environment of their preferred organ. This discovery could lead to new drugs that prevent cancer spread to bone or other organs.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 29, 2013

Hydrogen fuel from sunlight

Researchers at the Joint Center for Artificial Photosynthesis have developed a method to interface molecular hydrogen-producing catalysts with a semiconductor that absorbs visible light. This breakthrough enables the production of hydrogen fuel from sunlight without external electrical potential.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 29, 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.