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Science News Archive December 2013 - Page 5


Page 5 of 27

Opposing phenomena possible key to high-efficiency electricity delivery

Researchers found that high-temperature superconductivity in copper oxides forms as material cools from a state where electrons exhibit charge ordering, a phenomenon previously unknown. The study provides a crucial clue to understanding how to enhance superconductivity and potentially increase temperatures.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2013

The first cancer operation room with a navigator is created

The new system enables real-time interaction with the patient's body and radiotherapy applicator, allowing for precise radiation of potentially cancerous tissues. This innovation aims to reduce treatment time and minimize healthy tissue damage.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology·DateDec 19, 2013

Data are lost to science at 'astonishing rate'

A recent study found that most scientific data is inaccessible after just 20 years, with over 80% of publicly funded research data lost forever. Researchers are calling for journals to require authors to share their data on public archives before publication.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 19, 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.

Emotions in Parkinson's disease

Patients with Parkinson's disease struggle to recognize emotions in facial expressions and speech prosody. After surgery for deep brain stimulation, they show difficulty recognizing disgust and sadness, but this impairment is only temporary.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalCortex·DateDec 19, 2013

Telecoupling science shows China's forest sustainability packs global impact

A Michigan State University scholar proposes the telecoupling framework to understand how China's domestic decisions influence other countries and vice versa. The research shows that China's efforts to sustain forests can have substantial global impacts, including reappearing deforestation in countries that sell lumber and food to China.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAsia & the Pacific Policy Studies·DateDec 19, 2013

How cells remodel after UV radiation

A study by UC San Diego researchers has mapped the complex genetic interactions underlying cellular response to UV radiation, revealing links between chromatin structure remodeling and efficient repair. The findings provide new insights into DNA damage caused by UV radiation and its role in skin cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 19, 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.

In addiction, meditation is helpful when coupled with drug and cognitive therapies

Researchers suggest that rehabilitation strategies combining meditation-like practices with drug and behavior therapies are more effective than drug-plus-talk therapy alone. The study proposes that meditation can aid in cognitive recovery and provide additional benefits for individuals overcoming addiction.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateDec 19, 2013

Essential factor for Lyme disease transmission identified

Researchers found that HrpA is essential for Lyme disease transmission and tick survival, enabling the bacterium to regulate its RNA and survive in mammalian hosts. The discovery provides significant insights into the complex life cycle of Borrelia burgdorferi and potential targets for future treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 19, 2013

91 new species described by California Academy Of Sciences in 2013

The California Academy of Sciences discovered 91 new plant and animal species in 2013, including 38 ants, 12 fishes, and 14 plants. This finds highlights the importance of biodiversity hotspots like Madagascar and the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 19, 2013

MRI method for measuring MS progression validated

A new MRI approach called quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) has been validated for measuring Multiple Sclerosis (MS) progression. QSM provides a quantitative way to measure myelin content and iron deposition in the brain, which are important factors in MS physiology. The study demonstrated that using the correct model can separ...

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2013

Beyond Mendel

The Student DNA Barcoding Project is a flexible curriculum that uses student-generated research to teach about biodiversity, ecology and molecular biology. The project has been successfully used in New York City and Belize, with students exploring topics such as beetles, beehives, and conservation.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 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.

Bullying in academia more prevalent than thought, says Rutgers-Camden scholar

A Rutgers-Camden nursing scholar warns that academic bullying is becoming increasingly common in academia, impacting the ability to recruit and retain quality educators. The study highlights instances of slander, isolation, physical threats, and unrealistic workloads as prevalent forms of bullying in academic workplaces.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNurse Educator·DateDec 19, 2013

Scientists decode serotonin receptor at room temperature

A research team has decoded the molecular structure of the serotonin receptor at room temperature for the first time, revealing its dynamics and giving a more realistic picture of its physiological function. This breakthrough could lead to better-designed drugs and new ways to investigate large biomolecules.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2013

H. pylori vaccine shows promise in mouse studies

Researchers have developed an oral vaccine against Helicobacter pylori using Lactobacillus acidophilus as a delivery vehicle. The vaccine elicits specific antibodies and provides significant protection against gastric infection.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalClinical and Vaccine Immunology·DateDec 19, 2013

Helping good genes win in brain cancer cells

A study published in Molecular Neurobiology found that sodium butyrate reduces survival of cultured medulloblastoma cells and enhances expression of markers for a mature neuronal phenotype. This suggests the compound may promote cell death and favor maturation towards less malignant-prone phenotypes.

SourceWrite Science Right·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateDec 19, 2013

Ancient cranial surgery

Researchers discovered 45 trepanation procedures on human remains in Peru's Andahuaylas caves dating back to AD 1000-1250. The ancient practice was used to treat various ailments and conditions, with varying techniques employed by practitioners.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateDec 19, 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.

Young killer cells protect against infectious mononucleosis

Researchers found that young natural killer cells play a key role in preventing infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr Virus. A potential vaccination is being explored to protect against EBV infection and reduce the risk of developing Hodgkin lymphoma.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 19, 2013

Anti-epilepsy drugs can cause inflammations

Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum investigated anti-epilepsy drugs' effects on glial cells. They found that valproic acid and gabapentin promote cell survival, while phenytoin and carbamazepine have pro-inflammatory properties.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalEpilepsia·DateDec 19, 2013

An increase of just 2,000 steps a day cuts cardiovascular disease risk by 8 percent in those with a high risk of type 2 diabetes

A daily step increase of just 2000 steps can cut the risk of cardiovascular disease by 8% in those with a high risk of type 2 diabetes. The study, which analyzed data from 40 countries, also found that increasing physical activity levels through walking can substantially reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 19, 2013

Brain repair after injury and Alzheimer's disease

Scientists use reactive glial cells to regenerate healthy neurons in a breakthrough technology for treating brain injuries and Alzheimer's disease. In mouse models and human cell cultures, the method successfully converts glial cells into functional neurons.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 19, 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.

Researchers find a cause of aging that can be reversed

Scientists have found a molecular mechanism behind aging that can be reversed using a compound that restores communication between mitochondria and the nucleus. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for age-related diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, and inflammatory disorders.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalCell·DateDec 19, 2013

Throwing out the textbook: Salt surprises chemists

Researchers found that plain salt can transform into unexpected stable compounds with unusual chemical properties under high pressure. This discovery could help answer questions about early planet cores and create new materials with practical uses.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2013

Deepwater Horizon NRDA study shows possible oil impact on dolphins

A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that bottlenose dolphins in Barataria Bay, Louisiana, have lung damage and adrenal hormone abnormalities. The researchers believe that the Deepwater Horizon oil spill may be responsible for these health effects.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 19, 2013

Availability of food increases as countries' dependence on food trade grows

A study by Aalto University found that global food availability has increased in recent decades, especially in regions like the Middle East and Latin America. However, food self-sufficiency remains low, with many countries relying heavily on imports to meet their food needs, putting pressure on natural resources.

SourceAalto University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 19, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Evolution of plumage patterns in male and female birds

Research by Thanh-Lan Gluckman reveals that plumage patterning is labile in both males and females, with changes driven by environmental factors and signalling functions. The study challenges traditional views on sexual dimorphism, suggesting multiple types of dimorphism and adaptations to social and environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateDec 19, 2013

Living at home with dementia

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that most people with dementia living at home have multiple unmet health and welfare needs. Routine assessments and interventions in safety, medical care, and supportive services can help keep patients at home longer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateDec 19, 2013

Controlling parasitic worms with genetic selection

Sheep producers may benefit from genetic selection as an alternative strategy to control helminth infections, which can reduce economic losses and minimize the use of chemicals. This approach aims to breed sheep with natural resistance traits, improving overall health and reducing production costs.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Animal Science·DateDec 19, 2013

Big data project reveals where carbon-stocking projects in Africa provide the greatest benefits

A new study by Aarhus University reveals the optimal locations for carbon-stocking projects in Africa, prioritizing regions with high carbon potential, biodiversity conservation, and feasibility. The research identifies areas such as the Upper Guinean rainforests of West Africa and the Lower Guinean rainforests along the coast of Niger...

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 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.

Greek economic crisis leads to air pollution crisis

Air quality in Greece has deteriorated by 30% since the financial crisis, with fine particles lodged deep into lung tissue posing health risks. Burning cheaper fuel sources like wood and trash for heating has contributed to this issue.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateDec 19, 2013

Mating is the kiss of death for certain female worms

Male sperm and seminal fluid trigger pathways that cause female worms to dehydrate, prematurely age and die. The death of the female after she gives birth fits into a general framework of sperm competition observed in nature.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 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.

Concussion tests' marketing outpaces scientific evidence, new review says

A new review published in the journal Neuropsychology Review finds that computerized neurocognitive testing for concussions lacks consistent evidence on reliability and validity. The study suggests caution when using these tests due to their marketing prevalence over scientific proof, emphasizing the need for a multi-dimensional approa...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalNeuropsychology Review·DateDec 19, 2013

Biologists find clues to a parasite's inconsistency

Researchers analyzed 29 strains of the parasite and found that some South American or atypical North American strains provoke strong inflammation in infected cells, leading to tissue damage. The study suggests that host immune responses may be causing most of the damage rather than the parasite itself.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 19, 2013

Inside the Bloomberg public health toolbox

The Bloomberg Administration's public health policies were developed using a data-driven approach, which included rigorous appraisal of published studies and collection of local health survey data. The resulting policies have improved the health and life expectancy of New Yorkers, providing a blueprint for other cities to follow.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateDec 19, 2013

Study confirms target of potent chronic leukemia drug

Researchers at Ohio State University confirm that ibrutinib targets Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), a critical molecule in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell growth and proliferation. Inhibiting BTK delayed CLL development and improved overall survival in mouse models.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalBlood·DateDec 19, 2013

Amino acid's increase is suspected in diabetes

Elevated tyrosine levels in obese individuals are linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes. Researchers propose that tyrosine may directly affect insulin signaling, leading to increased blood sugar levels.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 19, 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.

Learning to predict sickle cell crisis and monitor treatment

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are working on a new device that can predict when patients with sickle cell disease will suffer an acute crisis and monitor the effectiveness of treatments. The device measures the physical properties of red blood cells, which become sticky and block blood flow during a crisis.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateDec 19, 2013

A new -- and reversible -- cause of aging

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a reversible cause of aging in mammals. Administering a naturally produced compound restored communication between cells' nucleus and mitochondria, comparable to younger animals. This finding has significant implications for understanding the aging process and potential reversal.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateDec 19, 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.

Congenital heart disease causes hypoglycaemia

Researchers found that patients with congenital arrhythmia produce twice the amount of insulin after consuming sugar, leading to drastically low blood sugar levels. The discovery could have significant implications for treatment of diabetes and management of hypoglycaemia.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalDiabetes·DateDec 19, 2013

Lactation consultant visits spur breastfeeding among women who usually resist it

Research at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that lactation consultants improved breastfeeding rates among women who resisted it. The studies showed that support from a lactation consultant significantly increased the chances of exclusive breastfeeding for three months, crucial for mother and child health benefits.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 19, 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.

Deciphering the secret of the sugar beet

An international team of researchers has successfully sequenced the sugar beet genome, revealing a vast array of genes and genetic variations. The study sheds light on the plant's sweet properties and how its genome has been shaped by artificial selection.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature·DateDec 19, 2013

The black-white infant mortality gap: Large, persistent and unpredictable

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that the black-white infant mortality gap remained stable for two decades after accounting for observable factors, leaving 74% of the gap unexplained. The gap declined by 2.6 deaths per 100,000 live births between 1983 and 2004.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 19, 2013

CCNY chemists use sugar-based gelators to solidify vegetable oils

Researchers at The City College of New York have successfully transformed vegetable oils into a semisolid form using low-calorie sugars as structuring agents. Mannitol dioctanoate and sorbitol dioctanoate gelators demonstrated excellent gelation tendencies for various oils, producing stable gels that can be used in food processing.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 19, 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.

Chewing gum is often the culprit for migraine headaches in teens

A study by Dr. Nathan Watemberg found that gum-chewing teenagers experience headaches due to temporomandibular joint dysfunction, which can be treated by quitting gum chewing. The study involved 30 patients between six and 19 years old who had chronic migraine or tension headaches

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPediatric Neurology·DateDec 19, 2013

Monthly appointments with pharmacists improve medication adherence

Patients with chronic medications show improved adherence when they meet monthly with pharmacists to coordinate treatment schedules and dispense prescriptions on a single day. This appointment-based model can have a major impact on patient health, as it simplifies medication regimens and addresses individualized needs.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJournal of the American Pharmacists Association·DateDec 19, 2013