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Science News Archive July 2013 - Page 6


Page 6 of 31

Pesticides contaminate frogs from Californian National Parks

Researchers have found pesticides commonly used in California's agricultural regions contaminating Pacific Tree Frogs in remote mountain areas, including national parks. The detection of pyraclostrobin, tebuconazole, and simazine highlights the potential long-term impact on biodiversity.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateJul 26, 2013

Sudden decline in testosterone may cause Parkinson's disease symptoms in men

A new study by Rush University Medical Center researchers found that a sudden decrease in testosterone levels may cause Parkinson's-like symptoms in male mice. Testosterone supplementation reversed the pathology in the mice. The study suggests that preserving testosterone levels may be important to prevent Parkinson's disease.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 26, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Legendary brands: Why are consumers still fascinated by the Titanic?

The Titanic's consumer fascination stems from its ambiguous tale, leaving consumers pondering unanswered questions. The study highlights the importance of imprecision in legendary brands, which can be both a marketing advantage and a key to their enduring appeal.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 26, 2013

NASA's various views of Tropical Storm Dorian

Scientists studied Tropical Storm Dorian's infrared image, revealing thunderstorms as cold as 195 Kelvin, indicating very high clouds. The storm maintained strong thunderstorms around its center before moving into warmer sea surface temperatures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 26, 2013

Is Facebook actually making communication about products and brands more interesting?

A new study by Jonah Berger and Raghuram Iyengar found that written conversations on Facebook lead to discussions of more interesting products and brands compared to oral conversations. This is because written communication allows consumers time to think before responding, enabling them to select more engaging topics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 26, 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.

Migraine is associated with variations in structure of brain arteries

A new study suggests that people with migraine are more likely to have an incomplete circle of Willis, which may contribute to abnormal cerebral blood flow and trigger migraines. The research found that variations in arterial anatomy lead to asymmetries in blood flow, and abnormalities were most prominent in the back of the brain.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 26, 2013

Gold nanoparticles improve photodetector performance

Gold nanoparticles have been applied to MoS2 photodetectors, increasing their efficiency by a factor of three. The researchers attribute the improvement to plasmon oscillations in individual nanoparticles, which enhance the local optical field.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 26, 2013

Singapore scientists discover new drug targets for aggressive breast cancer

Singapore scientists have identified genes that are potential targets for therapeutic drugs against aggressive breast cancer. UBASH3B is a protein tyrosine phosphatase that promotes tumor growth and metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer patients.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 26, 2013

Molecular monkey arranges X-chromosome activation

Scientists from Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics found that the protein MLE molds the RNA strand, allowing it to bind with other proteins. This dynamic interaction enables the entire X chromosome to be covered by the RNA-protein complex, essential for sex chromosome activation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 26, 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.

Building stronger policies to fight global hunger

Michigan State University will lead a new Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Food Security Policy to improve food policy in developing countries. The lab, partnering with universities and private sector stakeholders, aims to increase agricultural productivity, dietary diversity, and resilience to climate change.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJul 26, 2013

Oregon's Sunnyside Turnoff Fire

The Sunnyside Turnoff Fire in northern Oregon burned over 48,916 acres by July 26, 2013, with 40% containment. The fire was caused by human activity and affected the Warm Springs area, leading to evacuations and public closures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 26, 2013

Empowering your customers? Think twice about social media campaigns

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that empowering consumers through product development can lead to a backlash when combined with social media influence. Consumers who feel empowered are more likely to deliberately express opposing views and rebel against attempts to shape their opinions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 26, 2013

Researchers uncover cellular mechanisms for attention in the brain

A study published in Nature reveals that attention operates at the synapse level to sharpen signals and selectively boost relevant information. The results have implications for improving screening and treatments for people with attention deficits resulting from brain injury or disease.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalNature·DateJul 26, 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.

Inherited virus can cause cognitive dysfunction and fatigue

Research suggests that inherited Human Herpesvirus 6 may be a root cause of CFS, causing cognitive dysfunction and fatigue. Antiviral drug therapy improves severe neurological symptoms in affected patients.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateJul 26, 2013

Removing complexity layers from the universe's creation

Physicists propose that Einstein's special relativity emerges from a combination of quantum dynamics and gravity. This theory predicts the formation of charge asymmetry between particles and anti-particles at ultra-minute fractions of seconds after the Big Bang, in agreement with recent cosmological observations.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal C·DateJul 26, 2013

Materialism and loneliness: Is there really a vicious cycle?

A recent study found that materialism can lead to loneliness, but it also decreases loneliness for those who acquire possessions solely for enjoyment. The research suggests that materialism may not be entirely detrimental to consumer well-being when pursued in a 'happy hedonistic' lifestyle.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 26, 2013

Gadget genius

Researchers at the University of Akron have developed new nanoscale materials that can be used to create ultra-lightweight electronics. These materials, known as 'giant surfactants,' have the potential to revolutionize the tech industry by enabling the creation of smaller and more efficient devices.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 26, 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.

Why are consumers less likely to buy a product when it's the only option?

A study by Daniel Mochon found that consumers react negatively when choices are too restrictive, increasing the likelihood of no purchase. Consumers prefer having multiple options, and isolating one option may lead to increased searching and decision paralysis.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 26, 2013

UI researchers help answer long-standing question about Van Allen radiation belts

Two University of Iowa researchers have answered a long-standing question about the Earth's Van Allen radiation belts. They found that electrons can gain energy inside the belts through local acceleration in the heart of the radiation belts. The discovery was made using measurements from NASA's twin Van Allen Probes mission satellites.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2013

The limits to galactic growth

Astronomers have observed the Sculptor Galaxy (NGC 253) producing an outflow of molecular gas, curtailing its ability to form new stars. The galaxy's starburst region is shedding massive amounts of gas, with a total mass estimated to be nine times that of our Sun each year.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateJul 25, 2013

JCI early table of contents for July 25, 2013

Researchers found that rapamycin increased longevity in mice by reducing cancer rates and improving memory and spatial learning. However, the drug had limited effects on age-related symptoms such as cardiovascular function, muscle mass, and balance. The study suggests that rapamycin may be useful for treating some age-related conditions.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 25, 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.

Adenosine therapy reduces seizures and progression of epilepsy

Researchers have discovered that adenosine therapy can reduce seizures and slow the progression of epilepsy by targeting epigenetic changes in the brain. By delivering adenosine directly to the brain, scientists were able to reverse DNA hypermethylation, which is a key factor in the development of epilepsy.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 25, 2013

Nature: Elementary physics in a single molecule

A team of physicists has successfully demonstrated magnetism within a single molecule. By applying voltage, researchers were able to switch the magnetic state on and off, reproducing elementary physics in a single molecule. This discovery provides new insights into magnetism as an elementary phenomenon of physics.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateJul 25, 2013

Bad sleep around full moon is no longer a myth

A recent study published in Current Biology found that lunar cycles affect human sleep quality. The research revealed a significant drop in brain activity related to deep sleep around full moon, with participants also reporting poorer sleep quality and lower melatonin levels.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 25, 2013

Van Allen Probes pinpoint driver of speeding electrons

Scientists have identified an internal electron accelerator operating within the Van Allen radiation belts, causing sudden and unpredictable changes. The research paves the way for predicting hazardous space weather and preparing satellite operators for intense space storms.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 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.

Delay in seeking stroke care costs women best treatment

Women with acute ischemic strokes are less likely to arrive at the hospital in time for best treatment, with women arriving an average of 27 minutes later than men. Despite this, researchers found no gender gap once patients arrived within four hours of symptoms onset.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 25, 2013

Bad night's sleep? The moon could be to blame

Research suggests that humans still respond to lunar cycles, influencing sleep patterns even when unaware of the moon phase. Studies show decreased deep sleep, slower sleep onset, and lower melatonin levels around full moon.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 25, 2013
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.

Over 90 percent of dementia cases in China are undetected

A recent study found that over 90% of dementia cases in China are undiagnosed, with a high level of undiagnosed dementia in rural areas. The study highlights the need for improved mental health education targeting high-risk populations to increase diagnosis rates.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 25, 2013

Need for national Canadian strategy for EGFR testing

Researchers in Canada found that funding from the pharmaceutical industry significantly decreased EGFR mutation testing after it was discontinued. The Canadian healthcare system lacked resources for implementing a national policy, leading to a substantial drop in test requests.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJul 25, 2013

Certain blood pressure drugs slow dementia deterioration

Research published in BMJ Open suggests that ACE inhibitors slow cognitive decline typical of dementia, even boosting brain power in patients. Compared to those not taking these drugs, patients on ACE inhibitors experienced marginally slower rates of cognitive decline.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJul 25, 2013
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.

Analysis of 26 networked autism genes suggests functional role in the cerebellum

A study has identified two networked groupings from 26 genes associated with autism that are overexpressed in the cerebellar cortex. The findings suggest specific brain regions implicated in pathology and complement genomic and neuroimaging analyses to obtain a broader picture of the autistic brain.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 25, 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.

Scientists model 'extraordinary' performance of Bolt

Researchers from Mexico provide a mathematical model that accurately depicts Usain Bolt's record-breaking 100m sprint time, revealing a terminal velocity of 12.2 meters per second and average force of 815.8 newtons. The study highlights the challenges of overcoming air resistance and drag, showcasing Bolt's remarkable power output.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEuropean Journal of Physics·DateJul 25, 2013

Researchers get better metrics on laser potential of key material

Researchers at NC State University have developed a new method to measure the optical gain of MEH-PPV, a low-cost polymer that can amplify light. The new approach uses extremely short laser pulses, reducing thermal degradation and providing more accurate results.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 25, 2013

Obese kidney failure patients receive survival benefit from transplantation

A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that obese kidney failure patients who receive a kidney transplant can live longer than non-obese patients. The survival benefit is lower for severely obese individuals, but improved early post-transplant care may help mitigate this risk.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJul 25, 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.

Suffocating tumors could lead to new cancer drugs

Scientists at Cancer Research UK have discovered a new molecule that prevents cancer cells from responding to low oxygen levels, targeting the master switch HIF-1. The researchers developed this approach using synthetic biology and testing over 3.2 million potential compounds.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 25, 2013

What if quantum physics worked on a macroscopic level?

Researchers from UNIGE have successfully entangled two optic fibers populated by 500 photons, surviving on a macroscopic level. The phenomenon demonstrates that larger elements can retain their quantum properties, despite interactions with the surrounding environment.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 25, 2013

Secret of plant geometry revealed

Scientists have long puzzled over how plants set and maintain the angle of their lateral branches. The mechanism, driven by auxin hormone, counteracts gravity-sensitive growth to sustain a non-vertical angle of growth, known as the gravitropic set-point angle.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 25, 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.

NIH study uncovers a starring role for supporting cells in the inner ear

Researchers have found that supporting cells in the inner ear can actively help repair damaged sensory hair cells, potentially offering a pathway to prevent hearing loss. The study suggests that these cells produce heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), which protects neighboring hair cells from death.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 25, 2013

Pigeons fly home with a map in their heads

Researchers fitted homing pigeons with GPS loggers to study their navigation. The results showed that satiated pigeons flew directly to their home loft, while hungry pigeons flew to a nearby food loft, indicating they have a type of cognitive navigational map in their heads

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 25, 2013

Cinderellas reign in Final Four ratings

A new study found that Cinderella teams in the NCAA Men's Final Four have a 35 percent larger TV audience than powerhouse schools. This translates to an additional 3 million viewers for semifinal games and 4.5 million for championship games.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports·DateJul 25, 2013

Global warming to cut snow water storage 56 percent in Oregon watershed

A new study projects a 56% drop in Oregon's peak snowpack by mid-century, with significant impacts on ecosystems, agriculture, and hydropower. The study highlights the risks facing low-elevation, mountainous regions where snow often falls near freezing temperatures.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHydrology and Earth System Sciences·DateJul 25, 2013

NIH researchers discover how brain cells change their tune

Researchers found that the presence of stationary power plants at synapses controls the stability of nerve signal strength, while rapid mitochondrial movement causes fluctuating signals. This discovery may advance our understanding of human neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 25, 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.