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Science News Archive February 2013 - Page 27


Page 27 of 28

New kind of extinct flying reptile discovered by scientists

A new kind of pterosaur, Eurazhdarcho langendorfensis, has been identified by scientists from the Transylvanian Museum Society, University of Southampton, and Museau Nacional. The fossilized bones are approximately 68 million years old and belong to the azhdarchids group.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2013

The impressive aerial maneuvers of the pea aphid

Researchers found that pea aphids can land upright on their feet, using passive rotation to right themselves during free fall. The insects' ability to adapt to extreme situations has been studied in detail and published in Current Biology.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 4, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Amyloid imaging shows promise for detecting cardiac amyloidosis

A new PET test using 11C-PIB offers a non-invasive method to visualize amyloid deposits in the heart, providing valuable information for disease prognosis and treatment monitoring. The study demonstrated positive uptake of 11C-PIB in patients with cardiac amyloidosis.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

20 hours of TV a week almost halves sperm count

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that watching TV for more than 20 hours a week can almost halve sperm count, while exercising 15 or more hours a week can improve it by 73%. Moderate to vigorous exercise also has a positive impact on semen quality.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

Hoodoos -- key to earthquakes?

Researchers studied two hoodoos in Red Rock Canyon to estimate the force necessary to break sandstone shafts, shedding light on ground motion during recent earthquakes. The study suggests median or low-level ground motion despite large quakes in the area, providing valuable constraints for probabilistic seismic hazard assessments.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateFeb 4, 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.

New criteria for automated preschool vision screening

The American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus has revised its guidelines for automated preschool vision screening, focusing on detecting amblyopia risk factors in young children. The new criteria include separate thresholds for different age groups, lower referral rates for young children, and the use of tradition...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus·DateFeb 4, 2013

JoVE expands scientific video publication into chemistry

JoVE's new Chemistry section publishes a novel experimental approach to study antifreeze proteins, showcasing the potential for these proteins in cryopreservation and tissue preservation. By visualizing dynamic processes, JoVE aims to facilitate reproducible chemistry research.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateFeb 4, 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.

Chili peppers spark discovery

Researchers at Washington State University have made a breakthrough in repairing damaged brain cells using the active compound of chili peppers. The discovery has potential to provide relief for concussions and other health effects seen in athletes and head-injury victims.

SourceWashington State University·DateFeb 4, 2013

MU scientists build harness for powerful radiation cancer therapy

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a gold nanoparticle that can transport alpha particles directly to small cancer tumors, reducing damage to healthy organs. The nanoparticle design enables researchers to keep more than 80% of the element inside for extended periods.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 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.

Can cancer be turned against itself?

Researchers found that melanoma cells can transfer proteins to the immune system, allowing it to gather crucial intelligence and develop cytokines to kill cancer cells. This process, called positive feedback loop, tips the scales in favor of the immune cells.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 4, 2013

New effort to find why replacement hips and knees go bad

A Case Western Reserve University researcher is creating ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with embedded magnetic nanoparticles to monitor degradation and wear. The goal is to make implants more resistant to the environment inside the body.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateFeb 4, 2013

Into the quantum Internet at the speed of light

A research team at the University of Innsbruck has successfully transferred quantum information from an atom to a single photon, paving the way for the construction of a quantum internet. This breakthrough enables the transfer of quantum information over optical channels between quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 4, 2013

Mutations in ASXL3 cause problems similar to Bohring-Opitz syndrome

Researchers discovered a novel syndrome caused by mutations in the ASXL3 gene, characterized by non-specific symptoms and intellectual disability. The study provides a molecular definition of this condition, which is difficult to distinguish from Bohring-Opitz syndrome, and highlights the importance of sharing genomic data.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Vitamin C supplements linked to kidney stones

A large population-based study of men found that those taking vitamin C supplements are twice as likely to develop kidney stones as non-supplement users. The risk increased with the frequency of supplement use. Conversely, multivitamin use was not associated with an increased risk of kidney stones.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

Tuberculosis in Nunavut can be controlled

A combined strategy of door-to-door visits and education campaigns is proposed to combat TB in Nunavut. The territory's TB rate is 66 times higher than the general Canadian population, but control can be achieved through a community approach combined with clear performance targets.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 4, 2013

A little tag with a large effect

A recent study found that the epigenetic marker 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) plays a vital role in the selective expression of genes, particularly in healthy brain cells. The study also discovered that changes in 5hmC distribution are associated with gene silencing and may contribute to cancer development.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalCell·DateFeb 4, 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.

Study finds incentive price for reducing HIV risk in Mexico

A study found that conditional cash transfer programs can improve behavior among gay men and male sex workers in Mexico City. Gay men would participate at a rate of over 75% if offered $7-8.75/month, while male sex workers would participate for significantly less, $156/year.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe European Journal of Health Economics·DateFeb 4, 2013

Plant scientists at CSHL demonstrate new means of boosting maize yields

A team of plant geneticists successfully demonstrated that weakening the FEA2 gene can increase meristem size and lead to more rows and kernels in maize plants. This research has significant implications for increasing yields of essential food crops as the global population is projected to reach 8-9 billion by mid-century.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 3, 2013

Pioneering research helps to unravel the brain's vision secrets

A new study identified two neighboring areas of the cortex as processing different types of visual information independently. The researchers used magnetic fields to disrupt neural activity, revealing that one area plays a causal role in processing orientation, while another underpins shape recognition based on curvature differences.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 3, 2013

DNA reveals mating patterns of critically endangered sea turtle

Researchers have discovered that female hawksbill turtles mate at the beginning of the season and store sperm for up to 75 days, laying multiple nests on beaches. The study also found that these turtles are mainly monogamous, with females pairing up with a single male throughout the breeding season.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 3, 2013

Recreating natural complex gene regulation

Researchers developed a system to artificially simulate natural complex interactions between proteins that regulate genes, allowing for precise control over gene activation. This breakthrough enables scientists to better understand human gene regulation and develop new gene-based therapies.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 3, 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.

Prescription overdose rate reaches epidemic levels in NYC

A recent study found that the prescription opioid overdose rate in NYC increased seven-fold between 1990 and 2006, with fatalities concentrated among white residents. The study suggests a different public health approach is needed for this demographic, as their profile differs from heroin consumers.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 3, 2013

Growth factor aids stem cell regeneration after radiation damage

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found that epidermal growth factor speeds the recovery of blood-making stem cells after exposure to radiation. The finding could lead to new treatments for cancer patients and those affected by dirty bombs or nuclear disasters.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2013

Immune cell 'survival' gene key to better myeloma treatments

The discovery of the Mcl-1 gene's critical role in keeping antibody-producing cells alive could lead to better treatments for diseases like myeloma and chronic immune disorders. Without this gene, plasma cells die within two days.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 3, 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.

Researchers discover mutations linked to relapse of childhood leukemia

A recent study has identified specific genetic mutations that lead to drug resistance and relapse in childhood leukemia. Researchers found 20 relapse-specific mutations, including a mutation in the NT5C2 gene, which may help doctors detect early signs of relapse and switch treatment strategies.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 3, 2013

Novel radiation therapy method shortens prostate cancer treatment time

A new radiation therapy method using volume-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) has been shown to significantly reduce prostate cancer treatment time by approximately 14%. The study found that VMAT patients had shorter average room times, with some patients experiencing similar treatment times as those using gold-marker tracking.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateFeb 1, 2013

Nurses at forefront of genomics in health care

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) emphasizes the importance of genomic knowledge for nursing care, highlighting its relevance to advancing patient care. Genomic studies published in the Journal of Nursing Scholarship provide insights on genetic applications in nursing practice, including cancer risk assessment and prevention.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Nursing Scholarship·DateFeb 1, 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.

Genetically modified tobacco plants produce antibodies to treat rabies

Scientists produced a monoclonal antibody in transgenic tobacco plants that neutralizes the rabies virus by preventing it from attaching to nerve endings. This new antibody opens the prospect of adequate rabies prevention for low-income families in developing countries.

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

Autism speaks through gene expression

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University and Tel Aviv University found that mutations in the NHE9 gene lead to a profound loss of function in an ion transporter, which may trigger seizures. This discovery could lead to new diagnosis or treatment options for autism patients.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 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.

A gut feeling about neural stem cells

Scientists at the University of Melbourne have successfully transplanted neural stem cells into mice, which then migrated to the gut and developed into functional neurons. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for intestinal motility disorders such as Hirschsprung's disease.

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

Mental health parity reduces out of pocket expenses for patients

A study found that mental health parity reduced total and out-of-pocket spending for patients with major depression, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorder. Despite no significant change in service utilization, individuals with more severe illnesses experienced lower expenses due to the policy.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 1, 2013

Finding out how today's teens tick

The UK government has invested £3.5 million in the Millennium Cohort Study to track the lives of 19,000 children born in 2000-01 as they enter adolescence. The study aims to understand risk behaviors, educational choices, and social relationships among teens.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateFeb 1, 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.

If you are impulsive, take modafinil and count to 10

Researchers found that modafinil improved response inhibition in patients with initially poor impulse control, but had a detrimental effect in those with low initial impulsivity levels. The study suggests personalized medicine approaches may be necessary when prescribing modafinil for treatment of alcohol dependence.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 1, 2013

Overdose education, bystander nasal naloxone rescue kits associated with decreased opioid overdose death

A study found that overdose education and naloxone distribution programs in Massachusetts led to a significant reduction in opioid overdose death rates. The programs educated people at risk of overdose and provided them with naloxone rescue kits, which are safe and effective antidotes for reversing life-threatening opioid overdose effe...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 1, 2013

Programming cells: The importance of the envelope

The study reveals two independent mechanisms for fixing heterochromatin to the inner face of the nuclear envelope, using lamin A/C and the lamin-B receptor. This discovery sheds light on how the nuclear architecture in rod cells of nocturnal animals differs from normal cells.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell·DateFeb 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.

Routes towards defect-free graphene

A new technique has been developed to grow graphene without defects, enabling the creation of larger sheets with aligned flakes and improved electron flow. This breakthrough has significant implications for industrial-scale graphene manufacturing and the development of graphene-based technologies in electronics, energy, and healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 1, 2013

Bioelectric signals can be used to detect early cancer

Biologists at Tufts University have identified a unique bioelectric signal in cells that are likely to develop into tumors, which they can use to detect early cancer. By manipulating the electrical charge across cells' membranes, they can lower the incidence of cancerous cells and suppress abnormal cell growth.

SourceTufts University·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateFeb 1, 2013

Study: Infection preventionists know safe care

A study found that hospital infection preventionists generally agree on the effectiveness of certain practices in preventing healthcare-associated infections. These practices include alcohol-based hand rub, aseptic urinary catheter insertion, and maximum sterile barriers during central venous catheter insertion. However, non-certified ...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateFeb 1, 2013

Aarhus University builds research station in North Greenland

The new research station will be equipped with modern laboratory facilities, equipment, and unmanned drones to monitor air composition. Researchers from Denmark and abroad will collaborate on interdisciplinary studies of climate change, sea ice, ecosystems, and atmosphere.

SourceAarhus University·DateFeb 1, 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.

Propping open the door to the blood brain barrier

Researchers investigate using heparin to optimize therapeutic delivery with ultrasound into the brain, increasing treatment efficacy for CNS diseases. Initial results show promising potential in enhancing drug permeability and reducing side effects.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 1, 2013