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Science News Archive July 2013 - Page 2


Page 2 of 31

American Neurological Association and Wiley launch new open access journal

The American Neurological Association has launched a new open access journal, Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology, to publish original research and scholarly reviews on nervous system diseases. The journal is supported by Annals of Neurology, the most prestigious peer-reviewed clinical neurology journal worldwide.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateJul 31, 2013

Satellite sees Flossie fizzle fast

Tropical Depression Flossie's remnants brought strong winds to Hawaii, causing power outages on the islands of Maui and Molokai. The storm's low pressure area was centered near Honolulu, Hawaii, about 140 miles west-northwest.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 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.

BPA exposure disrupts human egg maturation

Researchers found that BPA exposure can dramatically inhibit egg maturation, leading to decreased maturity, increased degeneration, and spontaneous activation. This study adds to growing evidence about the impact of BPA on human health and may explain why some couples struggle with infertility.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJul 31, 2013

BMJ editorial: India's research participant protection policy

Experts say India's new policy protecting research participants could have serious consequences for public health and the country's role in global clinical research. The policy's compensation provision for injury from failed investigations could discourage trial participation, leading to a shortage of registered drugs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 31, 2013

1 in 3 US youths report being victims of dating violence

According to new research, nearly 1 in 3 American youths aged 14-20 have been victims of dating violence and almost as many acknowledge committing violence toward a date. The study found significant overlap between victimization and perpetration, highlighting the importance of prevention programs that consider these dynamics.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateJul 31, 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.

Male Holocaust survivors have a longer life-expectancy

A recent study found that male Holocaust survivors lived an average of 14 months longer than non-survivors, with a significant difference in life-expectancy among men aged 10-20 during the war. The researchers suggest that the 'Posttraumatic Growth' phenomenon may have contributed to their longevity.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 31, 2013

Internet-based training could help in the fight against antibiotic resistance

A new study published in The Lancet found that internet-based training can significantly lower antibiotic prescribing rates for acute respiratory tract infections. Clinicians who received training in using CRP tests or enhanced communication skills reduced their prescribing rates by 47% and 32%, respectively. Combining both types of tr...

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 31, 2013

Gene decoding obeys road traffic rules

Researchers found that maintaining a safe distance between transcription enzymes is crucial for efficient production of microRNAs. By launching enzymes at lower rates, they can avoid 'traffic jams' and create more molecules.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2013

NASA finds powerful storms in quickly intensifying Tropical Storm Gil

NASA's TRMM satellite observed intense bands of rain wrapping around Tropical Storm Gil's future eye, indicating strong organization. Powerful storms with rain rates over 5.2 inches per hour were detected near the storm's center, featuring 'hot towers' that could contribute to rapid intensification.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 31, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Binding together repelling atoms

Theoretical predictions show that controlled noise from an environment can bind repelling atoms together, creating a bound state with exotic properties. This novel mechanism could lead to improved cooling of atomic quantum gases.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2013

Improving heat removal qualities of graphene

Researchers at University of California, Riverside, have received a $360,000 NSF grant to study graphene's thermal properties and develop new approaches for removing heat from electronic devices. The team will investigate the effect of rotation angle on twisted bilayer graphene's thermal conductivity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJul 31, 2013

New target identified for food allergy therapy

Researchers at National Jewish Health have identified Cyp11a1 as a potential target for treatment of food allergies. Blocking the enzyme's activity in sensitized mice prevented diarrhea and inflammation, reducing levels of proteins associated with allergies.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJul 31, 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.

Clean water and soap may help improve growth in young children

A Cochrane review found that interventions improving water quality and hygiene practices resulted in an average 0.5cm increased height growth in children under five. Access to clean water and soap was associated with reduced microbiological and parasitic infestations, positively impacting child development.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJul 31, 2013

NIH launches neurological drug development projects

The NIH has launched three new projects to develop therapeutics for Fragile X syndrome, nicotine addiction, and age-related macular degeneration. Researchers aim to create novel treatments using cutting-edge science to address debilitating disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateJul 31, 2013

New 3-D colonoscopy eases detection of precancerous lesions

Researchers at MIT have developed a new endoscopy technology that captures three-dimensional images of the colon surface, making it easier to detect precancerous growths. The technique, known as photometric stereo endoscopy, uses multiple light sources to create visual representations of surface features.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJul 31, 2013

Microfluidic breakthrough in biotechnology

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences have developed a microfluidic system that can merge, transport and split microdroplets, allowing for the simultaneous cultivation of hundreds of different bacteria cultures. This breakthrough could speed up research on antibiotic resistance by reduci...

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 31, 2013

Sensitive parenting can boost premature children's school performance

A new study by University of Warwick found that highly sensitive parenting at age 6 can increase academic achievement in very preterm and low birthweight children to levels similar to full-term children. Cognitively stimulating parenting also benefits all children's long-term school success, regardless of birth status.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 31, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Cross-country collaboration leads to new leukemia model

Researchers have discovered a new leukemia model, showing that cancer stem cells actively remodel the bone marrow environment to favor diseased cells. This finding could influence the effectiveness of bone marrow transplants and lead to the development of new therapies.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 31, 2013

Man-made quakes could lead to safer, sturdier buildings

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are testing a two-story building made of cold-formed steel to determine its seismic resistance. The tests aim to improve nationwide building codes and make future buildings less expensive to construct.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJul 31, 2013

Mount Sinai launches first-ever genetic testing program in the primary care setting

The Mount Sinai Hospital is launching the first-ever genetic testing program in primary care settings to identify genetic risk for kidney disease in patients with hypertension. This $3.7 million grant will provide genomic information to individualize treatment, testing, and monitoring, with a focus on African Americans who are four to ...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateJul 31, 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.

Rituximab therapy effective for ANCA-associated vasculitis

Researchers demonstrate that a single course of rituximab therapy is as effective as the current standard of care regimen in patients with ANCA-associated Vasculitis. The RAVE study shows that a short course of rituximab can induce and maintain remission, providing an alternative to long-term cyclophosphamide treatment.

SourceBenaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 31, 2013

Guided growth of nanowires leads to self-integrated circuits

Scientists have successfully created self-integrating nanowires whose position, length and direction can be fully controlled. This breakthrough enables the production of electronic circuits with hundreds of transistors simultaneously, opening doors to various technological applications including LED devices, lasers, and solar cells.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2013

Citizen scientists rival experts in analyzing land-cover data

A new study shows that citizen scientists can analyze satellite data and identify human impact as accurately as experts. However, experts were better at identifying specific land cover types. Interactive training and feedback may help non-experts improve their classification rates.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 31, 2013

The flexible tail of the prion protein poisons brain cells

Researchers discover that prion protein has a 'switch' controlling its toxicity, which can be triggered by antibodies targeting the flexible tail. The study finds that only antibodies targeting the tail are suitable for use as potential drugs, while those triggering the switch are harmful.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateJul 31, 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.

Studying the emotions which cause opinions to change

A physicist has developed a model to study the dynamics of opinions, combining information with emotions to understand how opinions form and change. The study reveals that minority groups can persist despite being surrounded by enemies and that many elections have close results.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJul 31, 2013

Allman earns GSA's 2013 Donald P. Kent Award

Dr. Richard M. Allman has been recognized with the 2013 Donald P. Kent Award by The Gerontological Society of America for his exceptional leadership in gerontology through teaching, service, and practice. His research focuses on understanding mobility loss and testing new ways to maintain or enhance mobility in older adults.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateJul 31, 2013

Words and actions

Researchers at SISSA uncover inconsistencies in the dependence of the linguistic system on the motor one, with damage to specific brain regions affecting gesture imitation but not language processing. The study employs voxel-based lesion symptom mapping to establish a link between brain damage and performance decline.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalBrain·DateJul 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.

HIV answers raise new ethical questions

Experts warn that widespread use of Truvada for HIV prevention may lead to unintended consequences, including increased transmission of other STIs. Daily dosing, safer sex counseling, and regular testing are crucial for successful PrEP implementation.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateJul 31, 2013

Figuring out flow dynamics

Researchers at Caltech have developed a new way to analyze turbulent flow near walls, which can help reduce drag and fuel consumption in aircraft and ships. By breaking down complex equations into smaller blocks, they found that commonly observed features of wall turbulence can be explained by superposing just three response modes.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateJul 31, 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.

Breast reduction surgery found to improve physical, mental well-being

A study using the BREAST-Q questionnaire found significant improvements in satisfaction, quality of life, sleep, and exercise after breast reduction surgery. The procedure also relieved pain and led to better overall quality of life, with improvements seen as little as six weeks after surgery.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJul 30, 2013

Children with disabilities in developing countries at risk for harsher punishment

A new study of 46,000 parents in 17 low- and middle-income countries found that children with disabilities are more likely to experience physical and severe physical discipline. This highlights the need for policies and interventions to protect children with disabilities from abuse and promote positive parenting practices.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJul 30, 2013

Study shows combination stroke therapy safe and effective

A University of Cincinnati-led trial has shown that combining the clot-busting drug tPA with an antiplatelet medication eptifibatide dissolves blood clots more quickly and safely than tPA alone. The study found that 50% of patients treated with both drugs had good outcomes, compared to 36% of those receiving tPA alone.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJul 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.

Lawrence Livermore engineering team makes breakthrough in solar energy research

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have made a significant breakthrough in solar energy research by experimenting with plasmonic black metals. These nanostructured metals can trap light and increase solar absorption, paving the way for more efficient photovoltaic cells.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 30, 2013

Improving dogs' ability to detect explosives

Scientists at the University of Lincoln aim to develop generic training approaches for explosive detection dogs, enabling them to recognize specific group odors and learn from experience. The study's goal is to create a proof-of-principle method for teaching dogs to detect explosives more efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·DateJul 30, 2013

AGU journal highlights -- July 30, 2013

Research highlights the connection between atmospheric rivers and severe precipitation in Western Europe. A study found that these rivers are also responsible for high precipitation events in mountainous areas, with significant impacts felt as far inland as Germany and Poland.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 30, 2013

Learning from a virus: Keeping genes under wraps

A study published in PNAS reveals that the human herpes virus uses histone proteins to package and store its genetic material, allowing it to remain dormant. Researchers identified a viral protein called IE1 as a potential target for new therapies to control the virus's activity.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2013

Controlling contagion by restricting mobility

A new MIT study finds that even moderate mobility restrictions can decrease infection rates by up to 50% in highly interconnected areas. The researchers used data from the US census to simulate the flow of contagion and developed a quantitative measure called the price of anarchy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJul 30, 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.

Fewer states holding alcohol retailers responsible for harms from illegal service

A new report finds that fewer states are holding alcohol retailers liable for harms caused by customers who were served illegally, leading to reduced protection against excessive drinking. The erosion of commercial host liability laws is seen as a public health failure contributing to high human and economic costs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 30, 2013

Some women with abnormal breast lesions may avoid surgery

Researchers found that women with atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) can avoid surgery if radiologist and pathologist findings are concordant. Yearly mammograms, MRI, or ultrasound as second-line screening tools may suffice.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 30, 2013

Requiring some patients to get mental health treatment saves money

Researchers at Duke Medicine analyzed a program in New York that mandated community-based treatment for severely mentally ill patients. The study found significant cost savings, with psychiatric hospitalization rates declining 50% in the first year and outpatient costs increasing despite higher expenses for services.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 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.

Hardness, in depth

Researchers have developed a new machine that measures a material's hardness with unprecedented accuracy. The Precision Nanoindentation Platform (PNP) can test properties beyond the reach of previous devices, including viscoelastic creep.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJul 30, 2013

Rensselaer researchers identify cause of LED 'efficiency droop'

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have identified electron leakage as the culprit behind LED efficiency droop, a flaw that causes LEDs to lose up to 20% of their efficiency. The discovery may lead to new technologies to solve the problem and develop stronger LEDs.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 30, 2013

Preventing the 'Freshman 15' via the Web

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that Project WebHealth, a web-based health promotion intervention, successfully motivated college students to improve their weight-related health behaviors. The level of motivation differed by gender, with women being generally more motivated than men.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJul 30, 2013
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.

Study: Taxing sugary beverages not a clear cut strategy to reduce obesity

A recent study found that taxing sugary beverages can lead to reduced calorie intake, but the health benefits are offset by consumers substituting other unhealthy foods. Lower-income households may reap some benefits from reduced sugary beverage consumption, but also face higher costs due to taxes.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJul 30, 2013

Study: Online tools accelerating earthquake-engineering progress

A new study has found that online tools, such as NEEShub and the project warehouse, are helping to accelerate progress in earthquake engineering and science. These platforms provide a centralized repository for experimental results, making them accessible to researchers, practitioners, and educational communities.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Structural Engineering·DateJul 30, 2013