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Science News Archive August 2013 - Page 28


Page 28 of 29

Arctic sea-ice loss has widespread effects on wildlife

Sea-ice loss has widespread effects on Arctic wildlife, including disruptions to food chains, population mixing, and disease dynamics. The loss of albedo and increased warming accelerate melting, affecting critical habitats for species such as caribou, arctic foxes, and walrus.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 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.

Speedier scans reveal new distinctions in resting and active brain

Researchers used magnetoencephalography to track brain activity at high temporal resolution, revealing new distinctions in resting and active brain regions. The study provides novel insights into how brain networks function in cooperative groups, which is essential for better diagnosis and treatment of brain injuries.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateAug 1, 2013

Gene Robinson receives Animal Behavior Society award

Gene Robinson, a renowned expert in social behavior and genetics, has received the Animal Behavior Society's Distinguished Animal Behaviorist award. His groundbreaking work on the mechanisms and evolution of social behavior in Western honey bees has significantly advanced the field.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateAug 1, 2013

When it comes to skin cancer, pictures are worth 1,000 words

A new study found that visual images of skin cancer are most effective in prompting skin self-examinations, leading to more frequent and accurate checks. The findings could inform patient education strategies and public health communication efforts.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateAug 1, 2013

Sounding rocket to study active regions on the sun

VERIS will focus on the very hot material present in active regions of the corona, magnetically complex spots that can cause solar flares and coronal mass ejections. The rocket's six-minute flight will yield rich information about the tiny details of these processes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 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.

A roadblock to personalized cancer care?

The lack of investment in tumor biomarker research, inconsistent regulatory rules, and inadequate payment have created a vicious cycle preventing the development and testing of reliable biomarker tests. Experts recommend reforms to break this cycle and increase the value of tumor biomarker tests.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 1, 2013

Light that moves and molds gels

The Pitt research team demonstrated that hydrogels can be reconfigured and controlled by light, undergoing self-sustained motion. This biomimetic behavior has significant implications in the medical arena, potentially leading to new devices and technologies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 1, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Barrier reef corals deliver world first for sunscreen

CSIRO and Larissa Bright Australia develop world's first coral-based sunscreen filters offering unparalleled UVA/UVB resistance. The breakthrough technology has the potential to set a new standard in broad-spectrum sunscreens, providing clear, colourless protection for consumers worldwide.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateAug 1, 2013

New insight into how brain 'learns' cocaine addiction

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study sheds light on the mechanism of cocaine addiction, revealing how dopamine, mGluR5, and immediate early genes work together to induce addiction. The findings may lead to new treatments for this strong form of addiction.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateAug 1, 2013

Novel drug shuts down master protein key to lymphoma

Researchers have discovered how an experimental drug can completely eradicate human lymphoma in mice after just five doses by gumming up the powerful master regulatory transcription factor Bcl6. The study provides a promising new strategy to treat diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, the most common subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 1, 2013

Cool heads likely won't prevail in a hotter, wetter world

Researchers found a significant correlation between climate conditions and human conflict, with even moderate changes in temperature and rainfall increasing the risk of personal violence and social unrest. A 1 standard-deviation shift in heat or rainfall boosts the risk of riot, civil war, or ethnic conflict by an average of 14%.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2013

Fly study finds 2 new drivers of RNA editing

Researchers found two new mechanisms governing RNA editing in a key neurodevelopmental gene in living fruit flies. The mechanisms involve newly discovered sequences and structures far away from the editing sites, which can be controlled like a tuning knob to increase or decrease editing.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 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.

Fetal stress disrupts the way genes are transmitted

Research suggests that fetal stress can disrupt genetic imprinting patterns, leading to chronic disease later in life. The study found high rates of IGF2 gene expression from both alleles in cord blood, associated with increased disease susceptibility.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 1, 2013

Aerial pictures reveal climate change

Researchers at TUM developed a new method to monitor large plant populations in lakes using aerial images. They created a digital library of plant spectral characteristics to evaluate the images, factoring out image errors and providing early detection of ecosystem risks.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEuropean Journal of Remote Sensing·DateAug 1, 2013

Inflammatory on and off switch identified for allergic asthma and COPD

Researchers have discovered that two receptors of leukotriene B4 play opposing roles in inflammation, with BLT1 promoting and BLT2 weakening inflammation during an allergic reaction. This finding suggests new approaches to developing anti-asthma and anti-COPD drugs.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 1, 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.

Temperature alters population dynamics of common plant pests

Researchers studied temperature-driven changes in tea tortrix population dynamics, finding that desynchronization leads to more synchronous outbreaks. A mathematical model predicts population cycles under constant and seasonally driven temperature regimes, shedding light on how temperature influences insect populations.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2013

An app to lead the blind

A new smartphone app developed by Pakistani researchers can help sufferers of night blindness navigate safely in low-light conditions. The app uses GPS to track the user's location and estimate remaining daylight hours, allowing them to plan safe routes and avoid being caught out at night.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation·DateAug 1, 2013

NASA sees Hurricane Gil being chased by developing storm

NASA's TRMM and Aqua satellites observed Tropical Storm Gil intensifying into a hurricane, with the storm being pursued by another developing system. The satellite imagery revealed that the cloud pattern of Gil was not as organized as initially thought, with some areas showing less intense storms.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 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.

Future warming: Issues of magnitude and pace

Researchers from Carnegie Institution review climate models predicting significant warming over most terrestrial regions during the 21st century. The analysis highlights the need to consider uncertainties in greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on future climate change.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2013

The when and where of the Y: Research on Y chromosomes finds new clues about human ancestry

A new study using Y chromosome DNA sequencing sheds light on human ancestry by tracing the male lineage back to a common ancestor between 120,000 and 156,000 years ago. This timeframe agrees with previous findings on the female most recent common ancestor, providing significant insights into human history and migration patterns.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2013

Vanderbilt studies outline new model for staph bone infections

Researchers have identified a staph-killing compound and developed a new mouse model to test its effectiveness. The study may lead to new strategies for restoring bone balance, even if the infection is not fully eliminated.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 1, 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.

Potential nutritional therapy for childhood neurodegenerative disease

A team of researchers has identified a gene mutation responsible for a severe form of pontocerebellar hypoplasia, a currently incurable neurodegenerative disease affecting children. A nutritional supplement, AICAR, bypasses the block that prevents protein synthesis, restoring neuronal survival.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateAug 1, 2013

UT Austin research will help cities rebuild after earthquakes

Researchers from UT Austin conducted field research in Christchurch, New Zealand to develop new ground improvement methods for inhibiting liquefaction triggering. The study's goal is to determine the most cost-effective methods for improving residential structures' resiliency.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateAug 1, 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.

Existing cropland could feed 4 billion more

Research suggests that reallocating croplands away from fuels and animal feed can boost food availability for people by 70 percent without clearing more land. The study found that growing food exclusively for human consumption could provide enough calories to feed a few billion more people.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 1, 2013

'Perfect' food for 'perfect' prawns

Australian researchers have developed a food additive that can be used to improve the growth rate, health and sustainability of farmed prawns. The Novacq feed additive has been shown to promote faster growth, reduce reliance on wild fishery resources and produce high-quality products.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateAug 1, 2013

UPCI researchers target 'cell sleep' to lower chances of cancer recurrence

UPCI researchers discovered that targeting 'cell sleep' can kill a larger fraction of cancer cells, increasing the effectiveness of cancer drugs. This finding has implications for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), which are often treated with targeted therapy drug imatinib.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 1, 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.

NASA seeing which way the wind blows

NASA's HS3 mission will investigate tropical cyclones using a new dual-frequency conical-scanning Doppler radar called HIWRAP. The instrument measures wind and rain in hurricanes, providing critical data sets needed for improved understanding and forecasting.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2013

A new tool for brain research

Researchers used fMRI and EEG to study brain function, mapping a previously unexplored aspect of brain activity. They found that post-stimulus signal in fMRI reflects changes in brain signalling, not just blood flow.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2013

Antibiotic resistance among hospital-acquired infections is much greater than prior CDC estimates

The article reveals that antibiotic resistance among hospital-acquired infections is much greater than prior CDC estimates, with resistance rates ranging from 11% to over 50%. The FDA's promise to reboot antibiotic development rules has fallen short, and the authors conclude that more than an FDA 'reboot' is needed to combat this crisis.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateAug 1, 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.

Study highlights possible new approach to prostate cancer treatment

A new therapeutic approach to treating prostate cancer has been identified through a study on the FoxM1 protein. Depletion of FoxM1 in prostate epithelial cells inhibits tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and new blood vessel formation.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 1, 2013

'Evolution will punish you if you're selfish and mean'

Researchers found that selfish behavior is punished by evolution, contradicting a popular theory from 2012. Game theory simulations revealed that zero-determinant strategies, which offer advantages against non-selfish opponents, cannot be the product of evolution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 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.

Advance in regenerative medicine could make reprogrammed cells safer while improving their function

A new finding by Weill Cornell Medical College researchers could improve the safety and performance of reprogrammed cells. The study found that an enzyme called activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) helps in the process of changing adult human cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells). These iPS cells can be developed...

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2013

Threat of arrest and punishment may not deter illegal immigration

A new study by Emily Ryo found that perceptions of certainty of arrest and severity of punishment are not significant determinants of intentions to migrate illegally. Non-economic factors such as community norms and moral justifications play a stronger role in Mexicans' decisions to enter the US illegally.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateAug 1, 2013

Scientists uncover secrets of starfish's bizarre feeding mechanism

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a neuropeptide called NGFFYamide that triggers the stomach contraction and retraction in starfish, enabling a unique form of external digestion. This finding has potential economic and environmental implications for controlling starfish predation.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 1, 2013

ATS publishes clinical practice guideline on ILD in infancy

The American Thoracic Society has released new clinical practice guidelines for the classification, evaluation, and management of chILD in infants. The guidelines include recommendations for diagnosis, management, and research priorities.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 1, 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.

Climate science boost with tropical aerosols profile

A new study defines the aerosol climatology of Northern Australia's savanna, providing a crucial piece for climate modeling. The findings show that fine particles generated by burning have significant impacts on regional climate and air quality.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 1, 2013

Genetics: More than merely a mutated gene

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that genetic mutations interact with an individual's genome background about 75% of the time, affecting disease outcomes. This finding has significant implications for understanding and treating diseases with a simple genetic basis, such as breast cancer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 1, 2013

Extreme wildfires likely fueled by climate change

New research led by Michigan State University scientists predicts that climate change will continue to fuel larger and more extreme wildfires in the western United States, posing a significant challenge to fire and forest management.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology·DateAug 1, 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.

Novel 3-D simulation technology helps surgical residents train more effectively

A new online interactive simulation platform has been shown to effectively train and assess surgical residents in various patient care scenarios. The study found significant gaps in performance between interns, junior and senior residents, and attendings, highlighting the need for improved training.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateAug 1, 2013

Identification of a molecule linking bone loss and bone formation

Researchers identify CTHRC1 as a key molecule linking bone resorption and formation, suggesting potential treatment targets for osteoporosis. Mice with deficient CTHRC1 secretion exhibit lower bone mass, highlighting the molecule's role in age-related bone loss.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2013

Trouble waking up? Camping could set your clock straight

A week of camping exposed people to true dawn and dusk, synchronizing their internal biological clocks. This shift helped people revert to an early bird's schedule, with a typical modern environment causing a two-hour delay in circadian timing.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 1, 2013