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Science News Archive February 2013


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Walking in the footsteps of 19th and 20th century naturalists

Biologists Tiffany Knight and Laura Burkle studied a historic dataset from Charles Robertson's 19th-century naturalist work, revealing a weakened plant-pollinator network. The study found that half of the bee species associated with flowers had disappeared, pollinators were active before plants bloomed, and pollination services declined.

Wars on editing Wikipedia articles, uncovered

A study by CSIC researchers reveals two main types of behaviors in collaborative Wikipedia editing: clashes with rapid agreement, and interactions between three groups with varying levels of consensus. Despite initial disagreement, opposing opinions tend to converge over time through the article's content.

Human trials for Streptococcus A vaccine

Griffith University's Institute for Glycomics has launched a human trial for a Streptococcus A vaccine, targeting a protein on the surface of Strep A bacteria. The year-long trial aims to ensure the vaccine's safety and effectiveness in preventing rheumatic fever, particularly in remote Aboriginal communities with high infection rates.

Wolf in sheep's clothing: Uncovering how deadly bacteria trick the immune system

A recent UCLA study reveals that certain bacteria, including those causing tuberculosis, can pretend to be viruses when infecting humans. This allows them to hijack the immune response and hide out inside cells. The findings may also explain how viral infections like the flu make us more susceptible to bacterial infections like pneumonia.

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.

Mineral diversity clue to early Earth chemistry

A team of scientists analyzed 442 molybdenite samples to find that rhenium concentrations increased significantly over the past three billion years, reflecting increasing oxygen levels in the environment. The findings support previous research on hydrothermal activity and supercontinent formation influencing mineral evolution.

UGA researchers identify brain pathway triggering impulsive eating

Researchers at UGA discovered a neural pathway in fly larvae that triggers impulsive eating behavior when exposed to appetizing odors. This finding suggests that humans and flies share similar mechanisms for responding to rewarding cues, which can lead to compulsive eating.

Atoms with quantum memory

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered an intermediate state between order and disorder in ultra cold Bose-Einstein condensates. This prethermalized state retains quantum memory for a surprisingly long time, characterized by a new length scale that emerges from the initial quantum gas.

Old records, new bees result in 'Science' paper for MSU ecologist

Researchers discovered that the area has lost many species of bees and flowering plants, but found them surprisingly resilient in the face of warmer temperatures. The study used historical data to examine plant-pollinator interactions and found mismatches between plants and their historic pollinators due to climate change.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Replacing soybean meal in pig diets

Researchers found that replacing soybean meal with canola, cottonseed, and sunflower products can be viable alternatives for pigs, but they have reduced amino acid digestibility due to higher fiber content.

New study could explain why some people get zits and others don't

A recent study by UCLA and Washington University researchers discovered that acne-causing bacteria contain both 'bad' and 'good' strains. The 'good' strain is found in healthy skin but rarely occurs in those with acne, suggesting it may have a natural defense mechanism to protect the skin.

Aggressive advertising may make for aggressive men

A new study found that magazine advertisements often perpetuate hyper-masculinity, a toxic form of masculinity characterized by toughness, violence, and objectification. The research suggests that these ads can shape young men's attitudes and behaviors, contributing to social problems like violence and drug use.

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.

Mutation location is the key to prognosis

Researchers found that mutations in MECP2 gene at specific locations influence disease symptoms and progression. Mice studies revealed a difference in symptoms between mice with mutations at amino acids 270 and 273.

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.

Discoveries suggest icy cosmic start for amino acids and DNA ingredients

Researchers have discovered important prebiotic molecules in interstellar space, including a precursor to DNA's adenine component and an intermediate step in alanine formation. The findings suggest that these chemicals could have seeded newly-formed planets with the necessary building blocks for life.

Space race under way to create quantum satellite

Researchers are pursuing a quantum satellite concept to establish a secure global quantum communication network by harnessing the signal's travel time in empty space. The team has emphasized precise alignment between the satellite and ground stations to ensure accurate measurement of photons.

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.

How did early primordial cells evolve?

New research reveals how primitive cells could have replicated without crucial structures, shedding light on the earliest forms of cellular life. Genetic changes required for L-form growth identified, including increased fatty acid production and imbalance between surface area and volume.

Action video games boost reading skills

Dyslexic children who played action video games for nine sessions showed significant improvements in reading speed and accuracy compared to non-action gamers. The study's findings suggest that visual attention deficits are at the root of dyslexia and that action video games can enhance visual attention, leading to better reading skills.

Sea lamprey genome mapped with help from scientists at OU

Scientists at OU, Japan, Germany, US, Canada, and Great Britain collaborate to sequence the sea lamprey genome, providing insights into vertebrate evolution and character traits. The study reveals two whole-genome duplication rounds in vertebrates, shedding light on the origins of myelin and paired appendages.

Research unearths new dinosaur species

Researchers found fossil evidence that small crocodiles fed on baby ornithopod dinosaurs, revealing a new dimension to the food chain. The discovery also uncovered a previously unrecognized small ornithopod dinosaur species.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

The birth of a giant planet?

An international team led by Sascha Quanz has studied the disc of gas and dust around young star HD 100546, spotting a candidate protoplanet that could be a giant similar to Jupiter. The discovery provides an unique laboratory for studying the formation process of a new planetary system.

After the human genome project: The human microbiome project

The Human Microbiome Project is a major scientific effort to study the microbial communities within humans, with potential insights into diseases and disorders. The study, published in The FASEB Journal, provides a comprehensive reference set of microbiome specimens and lays a foundation for future research.

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.

Facebook 'Likes' a good indicator of quality hospital care

A recent study published in the American Journal of Medical Quality found that hospital Facebook 'Likes' are positively associated with patient recommendations and lower mortality rates. This suggests that hospitals with higher levels of quality and patient satisfaction tend to attract more 'Likes' on their pages.

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.

Study provides insights into plant evolution

Researchers identified a gene that regulates plant life cycle transition, providing insights into complex diploid body evolution. This discovery could lead to the development of apomixis, a technique for producing high-yielding hybrid crops more easily and cheaply.

Toxic oceans may have delayed spread of complex life

A new model reveals that oxygen-poor toxic conditions in ancient oceans may have delayed the spread of complex life forms. The study shows how bacteria using nitrate in their metabolism controlled the formation of toxic hydrogen-sulphide-rich states.

Research supports promise of cell therapy for bowel disease

Adult stem cells have been identified that can migrate to the intestine and produce intestinal cells, suggesting their potential to treat inflammatory bowel disease. The cells were found to express high levels of a receptor involved in tissue repair and wound closure.

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.

Problems with identifying meat? The answer is to check the barcode

A study published in BioMed Central's Investigative Genetics journal found that over 80% of game meat samples in South Africa were mislabeled, with some species being substituted almost entirely. The labelling error has implications for animal safety and cultural/religious practices.

Eating junk food while pregnant may make your child a junk food addict

Research published in The FASEB Journal suggests that pregnant mothers who consume junk food alter the development of their unborn child's opioid signaling pathway, leading to decreased sensitivity and increased tolerance for junk food. This can result in children being more likely to develop a lifelong addiction to unhealthy foods.

ACC/HRS release appropriate use criteria for ICDs and CRT

The ACC/HRS released appropriate use criteria for implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). The document assesses 369 real-life clinical scenarios to support physician decision-making, with 45% deemed appropriate for ICD implantation. The criteria help inform clinical judgment while ack...

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.

'Rain Man'-like brains mapped at UCSF

Scientists have created a detailed map of the global connections within the brains of individuals with agenesis of the corpus callosum, a genetic cause of autism. The study reveals abnormal brain connectivity patterns and network topology, potentially leading to new imaging biomarkers for diagnosis and management.

Brown unveils novel wireless brain sensor

Researchers created a novel low-power device that enables the recording of complex neural signals in freely moving subjects for over 16 months. The device, which transmits data wirelessly, has the potential to revolutionize brain-computer interfaces and help people with severe paralysis control devices with their thoughts.

MIMR researchers find a protein link to STI susceptibility

A Monash Institute of Medical Research team has identified a protein called Interferon epsilon (IFNe) that protects females against infections, including STIs. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic opportunities and boost protective immunity.

NASA's Van Allen Probes discover a surprise circling Earth

The Van Allen Probes have discovered a surprise third radiation belt extending out into space, offering scientists new insights into the region. The discovery provides a unique opportunity for researchers to study the dynamics of the belts and shed light on the complex interactions between solar energy and magnetic waves.

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.

Zeroing in on heart disease

Scientists identify genes involved in cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular disease risk by selectively decreasing gene expression using RNA interference. The study provides a new approach for understanding the mechanisms of cardiovascular disease and improving its prediction and diagnosis.

Loss of wild insects hurts crops around the world

A recent study found that managed honey bees are less successful at pollinating crops than wild insects, highlighting the negative consequences of losing wild insect populations. The research emphasizes the need for integrated management practices to promote long-term agricultural production and enhance global crop yields.

'Crazy-busy' Canadians under pressure on the job

A new study from the University of Toronto found that Canadian workers who report high levels of job pressure often experience problems navigating work and family roles, as well as symptoms of physical and mental health issues. Having control over one's work schedule and job autonomy are associated with lower levels of job pressure.

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.

Double-jointed adolescents at risk for joint pain

A prospective study found that adolescents with joint hypermobility are approximately twice as likely to develop musculoskeletal pain at these joints. The study suggests a possible genetic basis for joint hypermobility, and further investigation is warranted to determine the long-term effects of joint hypermobility on osteoarthritis risk.

Round or 'shaped,' implants yield good results in breast reconstruction

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery finds that round and shaped silicone implants have similar patient-reported outcomes in breast reconstruction, with few significant differences in quality of life. The researchers evaluated 65 women receiving round implants and 63 receiving shaped implants, finding average scores ...

Nearly 1 in 4 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer

A study of over 1,100 women found that nearly a quarter developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms within two to three months after breast cancer diagnosis. Younger women and those from Asian and black backgrounds were at higher risk.

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.

Improving climate protection in the agricultural sector

A study developed a new model to improve climate balance in agriculture by identifying key factors contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and energy inefficiencies. Organic farming strategies, such as planting legumes and using soil less intensively, show promise for reducing emissions and improving yields.