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Science News Archive January 2013 - Page 4


Page 4 of 27

Vultures foraging far and wide face a poisonous future

A study of white-backed vulture movements across southern Africa reveals they prefer to forage on private farmland, risking exposure to poisonous veterinary drugs. The birds travel long distances to find food, with some individuals crossing multiple country borders in search of sustenance.

SourceDurham University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Are gender and ethnicity risk factors for metabolic syndrome in children?

A systematic review of medical literature on metabolic syndrome in children found that obesity, male sex, and increasing age are significant risk factors. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome increased substantially when comparing groups of overweight or obese children to whole populations of youths.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMetabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders·DateJan 30, 2013

Empathy and age

A study of over 75,000 adults found that late middle-aged adults, particularly women, report higher levels of emotional reactivity and perspective-taking. This inverted U-shaped pattern suggests a potential link between age-related cognitive changes and empathy.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJan 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.

Virtual superheroes more helpful in real world too

A study published in PLOS ONE found that playing virtual reality games with superpowers increases helpful behavior in the real world. Participants who played as superheroes were more likely to help others after the game compared to those who passedively completed tasks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Light yet safe contender for city streets

The Visio.M project aims to develop a safe and efficient electric vehicle with a lightweight carbon fiber body structure. The design incorporates innovative materials and technologies, such as a monocoque chassis and ultra-lightweight gears, while maintaining the highest level of safety protection.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateJan 30, 2013

UNC scientists unveil a superbug's secret to antibiotic resistance

Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill identified a bacterial enzyme that enables vancomycin resistance to spread among Staphylococcus aureus strains. They also discovered a potential solution by designing a synthetic molecule that blocks the transfer of resistance genes, offering hope for developing effective therapies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 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.

Sam Houston State tests prison education programs

The study found that offenders who participated in Windham educational programs generally had lower re-incarceration rates and higher earnings. Participants achieved significantly higher reading, math, and language scores than non-program participants.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJan 30, 2013

Mixed forest provides beneficial effects

A new study by researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences found that mixed forests provide positive relationships to six different ecosystem services. The study suggests that promoting more varieties of trees may increase these services, including tree growth, carbon sequestration, and...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2013

Patient satisfaction leads to better HIV care

A study by Baylor College of Medicine found that patient satisfaction with care is associated with higher adherence to antiretroviral therapy and retention in HIV care. Patients who were more satisfied had better clinical outcomes, including improved survival rates.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 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.

Rutgers physics professors find new order in quantum electronic material

Rutgers physics professors have discovered a new type of order in an exotic uranium-based material, which may lead to enhanced computer displays and data storage systems. The 'hastatic' order could also enable the creation of more powerful superconducting magnets for medical imaging and high-speed transportation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

Doubt cast on Sir Bernard Lovell's brainwashing

A recent article casts doubt on Sir Bernard Lovell's alleged brainwashing by the Soviets during a Cold War visit. According to Lovell's son Bryan, the reason for his father's illness may have been exhaustion rather than Soviet mind control.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateJan 30, 2013

Researchers see more West Nile virus in orchards and vineyards

Researchers have discovered a link between West Nile virus in mosquitoes and birds, as well as the insects' ability to spread the virus to horses and people. Habitats with high disease prevalence in horses and birds also have more mosquitoes and certain bird species, which contribute to the transmission of the virus.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 30, 2013

Discrepant analyses of industry-sponsored clinical trials

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found significant discrepancies between internal company documents and published trial reports in industry-sponsored clinical trials. The researchers highlighted the need for standardizing definitions of analysis types, making full trial protocols and data publicly available, and ensuring regul...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 29, 2013

New study will predict how trees will adapt to rapid climate change

Researchers will analyze DNA of hundreds of balsam poplar trees to identify genes responsible for adaptation traits, combining with satellite maps and modeling techniques to predict regions at risk. This knowledge will help prioritize conservation efforts and understand the health of forests under changing climates.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateJan 29, 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.

Indoor air puts Chinese women nonsmokers at risk

A University at Buffalo study found that indoor air pollution contributes significantly to lung cancer risk in Chinese women, despite low smoking rates. The research measured particulate matter levels inside homes and linked them to lung cancer incidence, highlighting the need for improved ventilation systems and public education.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateJan 29, 2013

Scientists create 1-step gene test for mitochondrial diseases

A research team developed a one-step gene test that analyzes both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA to help evaluate the genetic cause of suspected mitochondrial disease. The new tool may shorten the diagnostic odyssey experienced by patients and families seeking the cause of debilitating symptoms.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·DateJan 29, 2013

'Super' enzyme protects against dangers of oxygen

Scientists have discovered that superoxide dismutase (SOD1) regulates cell energy and metabolism, preventing uncontrolled cell growth associated with cancer. This enzyme also protects cells from free radical damage.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalCell·DateJan 29, 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.

Epigenetic control of cardiogenesis

Researchers have discovered a new class of non-coding RNAs essential for embryonic heart development. Knocking down the long non-coding RNA Fendrr led to lethal malformations and impaired body wall formation in mouse embryos. The study sheds light on the role of epigenetic control in regulating cardiogenesis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 29, 2013

Study supports heart rhythm problems with some antidepressants

A recent study found a link between certain antidepressants and long QT intervals, a marker for heart rhythm abnormalities. The research used electronic health records to track patients who had taken antidepressants or methadone, and discovered that some medications increased the risk of abnormal heart rhythms.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 29, 2013

BUSM study highlights attitudes toward HPV vaccination for boys

A BUSM study found that low-income and minority parents/guardians are inclined to accept HPV vaccination for boys with the aim of protecting them from cancer and other diseases. However, racial/ethnic differences emerged in attitudes regarding school-entry mandates.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateJan 29, 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.

More research into chronic diseases urgently needed in all countries

International experts emphasize the need for more research on non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes in low- and middle-income countries. Current research is limited, but collaboration between high-income and low-middle-income countries can provide valuable insights.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 29, 2013

Study reveals 2-fold higher incidence of non-melanoma skin cancers for HIV patients

A Kaiser Permanente study found basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas occur more than twice as often among HIV-positive individuals compared to those who are HIV-negative. The risk for these cancers is consistent with the growing evidence about this population's increased risk for a broad range of cancers.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 29, 2013

New study shows 'just a bite' will satisfy

Researchers found that eating smaller portions of snack foods can provide similar feelings of satisfaction as larger ones. The study showed that those who consumed smaller portions consumed 77% more food but did not feel any appetite-enhancing effects.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateJan 29, 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.

Beer's bitter compounds could help brew new medicines

Scientists have determined the exact structure of humulones, substances derived from hops in beer, which could be used to develop new pharmaceuticals. The findings overturn previous results and provide insights into the beneficial effects of moderate beer consumption on health.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 29, 2013

New insights into conquering influenza

Researchers have identified a key protein, IFITM3, in T-cells that provides resistance to influenza. Increasing the production of these resistant T-cells could lead to longer-lasting immunity.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 29, 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.

Researchers find a better way to culture central nervous cells

A study by Brown University researchers found that the protein apoE4 is surprisingly useful in promoting neuron growth, even though it's associated with Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest a better method for growing neurons outside the body, which could be used to treat neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceBrown University·JournalBiomaterials·DateJan 29, 2013

Simulations' Achille's heel

Computer simulations face challenges when applied to systems of finite size, such as those in crystal or liquid crystals. Additionally, some methods may not accurately compute thermal properties like entropy.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateJan 29, 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.

Eating bright-colored fruits and vegetables may prevent or delay ALS

A study published in Annals of Neurology found that diets high in carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene and lutein, were linked to reduced risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The researchers also discovered that individuals with higher intake of antioxidants had a lower ALS risk.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJan 29, 2013

Professional training 'in the wild' overrides laboratory decision preferences

A new study by Claire McAndrew and Julie Gore found that professional training in real-world scenarios can override laboratory decision preferences. The research suggests that trainers should focus on the professional, task, and environment to understand how decisions are made.

SourceHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society·JournalJournal of Cognitive Engineering and Decision Making·DateJan 29, 2013

Center-based child care: Long hours do not cause aggression and disobedience

A new study using data from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study found no increase in problematic behaviour among siblings who spent more hours in child care. The researchers suggest that Norway's favorable work-family policy, including paid parental leave and easy access to quality childcare, may be a contributing factor.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalChild Development·DateJan 29, 2013
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Low-income pregnant women in rural areas experience high levels of stress, researcher says

Research by Tina Bloom at the University of Missouri's Sinclair School of Nursing highlights the dangers of chronic, long-term stress on low-income pregnant women in rural areas. These women experience financial problems, lack of employment opportunities, and isolation, which exacerbate their emotional and physical well-being.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalIssues in Mental Health Nursing·DateJan 29, 2013

Good mood helps boost brain power in older adults

Researchers found that easy mood-boosters like candy helped seniors perform significantly better on tests of decision-making and working memory. The study showed that a good mood can help overcome some cognitive declines with aging, providing good news for older adults.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCognition & Emotion·DateJan 29, 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.

Going trayless study shows student impact

A new study published in the Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition found that removing trays from university dining halls reduces food waste and dish use. The study, conducted at American University, shows a 32% reduction in food waste and a 27% reduction in dish use.

SourceAmerican University·JournalJournal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition·DateJan 29, 2013

Common genetic alteration found in head and neck cancers may not be key to effective treatment

Research found that a large majority of head and neck cancers have deregulated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, but this doesn't necessarily mean the tumor is dependent on it for survival. The study used tumor explant model to distinguish driver mutations from passenger mutations, which could help stratify patients for response to mTOR inhibitors.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 29, 2013

In-brain monitoring shows memory network

Scientists used in-brain monitoring to show that memory networks involve simultaneous brain region activation. The study confirmed the importance of the medial temporal lobe and found distinct frequencies for time and place memories.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 29, 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.

New evidence highlights threat to Caribbean coral reef growth

Researchers have discovered that Caribbean coral reefs are facing a significant threat due to reduced rates of carbonate production, leading to erosion and loss of growth potential. The study found that reefs in shallow waters have declined by 60-70% in growth rates compared to historical records.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 29, 2013

Scientists trick iron-eating bacteria into breathing electrons instead

Researchers have created a way to cultivate iron-oxidizing bacteria using electricity, enabling the study of these organisms and potentially leading to biofuel production. The electrochemical cultivation method supplies the bacteria with electrons, allowing them to respire and replicate without iron.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateJan 29, 2013

Ants' behavior leads to research method for optimizing product development time, costs

A Wayne State University researcher has developed a mathematical model-based methodology to estimate the optimal amount of time spent developing a product, as well as its cost, in overlapped product development. The approach could reduce product definition time by up to 50% and improve critical thinking.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalInternational Journal of Production Research·DateJan 29, 2013

Research to better manage renewable energy

Assistant professor Hamed Mohsenian-Rad is designing plug-and-play energy consumption scheduling devices to control energy usage in electric cars and industrial machinery. His research aims to encourage consumer cooperation, support renewable energy integration, minimize generation cost, and maintain electrical power quality.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJan 29, 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.

Study demonstrates health benefits of coming out of the closet

Research finds that LGBTQ+ individuals who are out to others have lower stress hormone levels, fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improved overall wellbeing. This study suggests that self-acceptance and disclosure can lead to better physical and mental health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJan 29, 2013