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Science News Archive December 2013


Page 1 of 27

New studies give strong boost to binary-star formation theory

Scientists discovered previously unseen binary companions to young protostars using upgraded VLA capabilities. The findings support the disk-fragmentation idea, which suggests double stars form when a gas and dust disk fragments, forming a new star in orbit with the first.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateDec 31, 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.

Fetal umbilical vein for reconstruction of middle cerebral artery

Researchers found that fetal umbilical veins exhibit stress relaxation and creep properties similar to those of middle cerebral arteries, making them a suitable alternative for reconstruction. These findings indicate that the fetal umbilical vein can be transplanted to repair middle cerebral artery injury with favorable outcomes.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateDec 31, 2013

Major reductions in seafloor marine life from climate change by 2100

A new study predicts significant declines in deep-sea marine life due to climate change, with up to 38% loss in the North Atlantic and over 5% globally by 2100. This will impact ecosystem services such as fishing and food supply, driving changes in seafloor communities.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 31, 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.

Sleep to protect your brain

A new study from Uppsala University reveals that one night of sleep deprivation can increase morning blood concentrations of NSE and S-100B in healthy young men. These molecules are typically found in the brain and may indicate a loss of brain tissue. The findings suggest that good sleep is crucial for maintaining brain health.

SourceUppsala University·JournalSLEEP·DateDec 31, 2013

Hyperhomocysteinemia patients with dyslipidemia are more likely to have stroke

A retrospective analysis of inpatients found that hyperhomocysteinemia and abnormal blood lipids exert synergistic effects on the onset of stroke. Patients with elevated homocysteine levels and abnormal blood lipids are predisposed to stroke, highlighting the importance of managing both conditions.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateDec 31, 2013

GRU joins national research cooperative to improve reproductive health

Georgia Regents University has joined the Cooperative Multicenter Reproductive Medicine Network to conduct large-scale clinical trials on male and female infertility. The network aims to develop novel diagnostic and treatment strategies for complex reproductive health issues, including polycystic ovary syndrome and delayed puberty.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateDec 31, 2013

Cloud mystery solved: Global temperatures to rise at least 4°C by 2100

New research reveals global climate sensitivity is higher than previously thought due to correct representation of water vapor in cloud formation. Global temperatures are expected to increase by 3-5°C with a doubling of carbon dioxide, with potentially more extreme warming if emissions are not reduced.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·DateDec 31, 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.

Finnish research team reveals how emotions are mapped in the body

Researchers at Aalto University have discovered that emotional states trigger distinct bodily sensations, with consistent patterns across West European and East Asian cultures. The study found that awareness of these bodily changes can lead to conscious emotional sensations like happiness, highlighting the biological basis of emotions.

SourceAalto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 31, 2013

Large-aperture planar lens antennas with gradient refractive index

Three-dimensional large-aperture GRIN lens antennas are fabricated using multilayer inhomogeneous drilling holes or square ring resonators, offering high gain, broad bandwidth, and dual polarization. A simple flat GRIN lens is used to focus electromagnetic waves with minimal phase changes.

SourceScience China Press·DateDec 31, 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.

Imaging technology could unlock mysteries of a childhood disease

Researchers developed a technique to study RSV's structure and activity in living cells, which could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs and a vaccine. The imaging technology uses probes that quickly attach to RNA within cells, allowing scientists to visualize the virus's entry, assembly, and replication.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 30, 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.

With few hard frosts, tropical mangroves push north

Mangroves have expanded dramatically along Florida's Atlantic Coast as frost frequency declined, replacing salt marshes. This change is linked to extreme weather patterns and rising temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 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.

Climate change spurs tropical mangroves to expand in the north

Climate change is allowing mangroves to thrive in new areas around northern Florida, with the species' range expanding by over 3,000 acres between 1984 and 2011. The growth of mangroves may pose challenges for other coastal ecosystems, such as salt marshes, which could face loss of habitat and biodiversity.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2013

High good and low bad cholesterol levels are healthy for the brain, too

Research from UC Davis Health found that high HDL and low LDL cholesterol levels are associated with lower brain amyloid plaque deposits, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. This study provides evidence for the importance of cholesterol management in preventing cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateDec 30, 2013

Toward a molecular explanation for schizophrenia

Researchers discovered reduced autophagy in schizophrenic patients' brains, which may lead to cell death. Boosting beclin 1 levels could restore balance and prevent harmful brain-cell death. ADNP levels were also found to be increased in the blood of schizophrenia patients.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 30, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Field trial with lignin modified poplars shows potential for bio-based economy

The field trial with genetically modified poplar trees demonstrates that lignin modification can improve sugar conversion and increase ethanol production. The results also show mixed suppression of the lignin biosynthesis in the trees, leading to variable coloration and growth rates.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2013

Slower-paced meal reduces hunger but affects calorie consumption differently

A new study found that slowing down meal pace can lead to reduced hunger and calories consumed in normal-weight individuals. However, the effect was less pronounced in overweight or obese subjects, who may have eaten less due to self-consciousness. Both groups experienced lower hunger levels after slower-paced meals.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateDec 30, 2013

Most clinical studies on vitamins flawed by poor methodology

Many clinical studies on vitamins have poor methodology, leading to inaccurate conclusions and defying existing evidence. New methodologies are needed to provide scientifically valid information to consumers with inadequate diets or deficiencies.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNutrients·DateDec 30, 2013

Conversations on sex lacking between doctors and teens

Conversations about sex are rare between doctors and teenagers, lasting only a minute on average, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending physicians address these topics. Longer visits and confidentiality increase the chances that sex is mentioned.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 30, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

DNA barcoding to monitor marine mammal genetic diversity

The study found that DNA barcoding increases the accuracy of monitoring marine mammal biodiversity, allowing for earlier detection of impacts from climate change and human activities. By using DNA barcoding in conjunction with a stranding network, researchers can better track species distribution and abundance.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 30, 2013

Molecular evolution of genetic sex-determination switch in honeybees

Research reveals that five amino acid differences control allelic variations in the csd gene, determining femaleness in honeybees. The study found an evolutionary intermediate with only three amino acid differences between lethality and induced femaleness, supporting incomplete penetrance as a mechanism for gradual molecular evolution.

SourceArizona State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 30, 2013

Minority physicians care for a majority of underserved patients in the US

A recent study found that minority physicians care for 54% of minority patients and 70% of non-English-speaking patients. Minority physicians are also more likely to care for patients with lower self-reported health status. The study suggests expanding the racial diversity of the physician workforce could improve access to care.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 30, 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.

Nicotine exploits COPI to foster addiction

A study in The Journal of General Physiology reveals how nicotine up-regulates nAChRs through COPI-coated vesicles, playing a major role in nicotine addiction. This finding may also contribute to the decreased susceptibility of smokers to Parkinson's disease.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateDec 30, 2013

Medicaid beneficiaries use emergency services due to lack of alternatives

A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that Medicaid beneficiaries are more likely to seek emergency care due to access issues rather than the severity of their illness. The study suggests that policy makers should focus on increasing timely access to primary care, especially for Medicaid beneficiaries.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 30, 2013

Mangroves expand north as Florida freezes decline

Researchers found mangroves are expanding along hundreds of miles of coastline in Florida, with a doubling of habitat in areas like Daytona Beach and Titusville. The expansion is linked to a decrease in cold snaps, which allows mangroves to thrive in previously inhospitable conditions.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2013

Final recommendations on lung cancer screening

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk adults between 55 and 80 years old. Heavy smokers or former heavy smokers who have quit within the past 15 years are considered high risk due to increased lung cancer risk. The recommendation is based on comprehensive evi...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 30, 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.

Alcohol leaves its mark on youngsters' DNA

Researchers found that weekend drinking leads to double the oxidative damage compared to non-drinkers, with DNA damage affecting 44% of cells in drinker group. The study reveals a new potential health risk associated with young people's alcohol consumption.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalAlcohol·DateDec 30, 2013

Museum bird DNA 'ready for use' in Naturalis Biodiversity Center

A recent study used DNA barcoding to identify Dutch bird species with high resolution, flagging some for further investigation. The approach was particularly useful in museums, such as the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where DNA tissue vouchers are already prepared.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 30, 2013

New innovation by NUS researchers enhances information storage in electronics

The NUS team has developed a new Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM) technology that can store data for at least 20 years, increasing storage space and enhancing memory. This innovation has the potential to change the architecture of computers, making them easier to manufacture and reducing costs.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 30, 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.

First location of melatonin in caudal spinal trigeminal nucleus

The study found that melatonin receptor 1 expression is significantly reduced in the caudal spinal nucleus, leading to an attenuated regulatory effect on pain. This breakthrough discovery has implications for understanding pain transmission and developing new treatments.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateDec 28, 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.

Finnish research to revolutionise indications for knee surgery

A year after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy, patients showed equally low incidence of symptoms and were satisfied with their knee. The study suggests that surgery is not an effective form of treatment for degenerative meniscal tears, and instead recommends exercise and rehabilitation as a more effective approach.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 27, 2013

Who is using MyPlate?

A national survey of 497 mothers found that those familiar with MyPlate were more likely to be 'vegetable lovers' and involve their kids in meal prep. The study suggests involving kids in meal planning, making healthy options appealing to families, and utilizing the USDA's ChooseMyPlate website for practical tips.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateDec 27, 2013

Normobaric oxygen preconditioning for cerebral ischemic injury

Researchers found that normobaric oxygen exposure improved neurological deficits and reduced infarct volume in rats with focal cerebral ischemia. The protective effect was linked to increased expression of certain genes involved in the hypoxia-inducial factor signaling pathway.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateDec 27, 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.

Chitosan conduits combined with NGF microspheres repair facial nerve defects

Researchers found that the combination of nerve growth factor-releasing microspheres and chitosan conduits significantly increased nerve conduction velocity and amplitude, attenuating muscular atrophy induced by facial nerve defects. The sustained release of active nerve growth factor lasted for at least 90 days.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateDec 27, 2013

Surgery beats chemotherapy for tongue cancer, U-M study finds

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that surgery significantly improves survival rates and functional outcomes for patients with advanced oral cavity cancer. In contrast, those who received chemotherapy after initial treatment had poorer results.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateDec 26, 2013

The fate of the eels

Researchers used a new ocean model to simulate the migration of eel larvae from the Sargasso Sea to Europe. The study found that small-scale ocean currents play a crucial role in determining eel population fluctuations and that eels return to specific locations within the Sargasso Sea where their mother spawned.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 26, 2013