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Science News Archive March 2013


Page 16 of 30

Major grant to investigate limits of quantum theory

Dr Hendrik Ulbricht's team will explore the theoretical possibility of conducting experiments to discover whether there is a limit to quantum theory or not. They aim to generate a quantum superposition state for nanoparticles using matter wave interferometry.

Building the massive simulation sets essential to Planck results

The U.S. Planck Team, led by NASA and DOE, generates a massive simulation suite using NERSC's resources to analyze the flood of data from the Planck mission. This allows for precise cosmology results, with 250,000 maps of the sky produced in just 1,000 realizations.

U of T scientists map genome that causes Dutch Elm Disease

Researchers from U of T and SickKids Research Institute have successfully mapped the genome of the Ophiostoma ulmi fungus that causes Dutch Elm Disease, a devastating elm tree disease. The findings aim to help scientists develop strategies to prevent the fungus from destroying elm trees.

News tips from the journal mBio®, volume 4, issue 1

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a novel lipopolysaccharide modification that contributes to F. tularensis lethality and developed a live attenuated vaccine strain. Additionally, scientists studied the dynamics of plague in an urban environment, finding that while port cities are susceptible to outbreaks, they may not b...

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.

New research discovers the emergence of Twitter 'tribes'

Scientists from Royal Holloway University have discovered evidence of Twitter communities that share common characteristics, occupations, and interests. The study found that users can be predicted to belong to a particular community by analyzing their language use, with surprising groups emerging that were not expected.

Outside the box: UCLA uses brain aneurysm treatment to stop irregular heart rhythms

Researchers at UCLA successfully treated two patients with severe ventricular arrhythmias using a minimally invasive technique normally employed in treating brain aneurysms. The coil embolization procedure helped stop the electrical storms and eliminate the blood supply to the affected area, allowing the heart to return to normal rhythm.

One gene, many mutations

Researchers have found that nine separate mutations within a single gene in deer mice result in changes to their camouflage, illustrating the power of small genetic changes. The study suggests that natural selection acts on many small genetic changes to produce rapid and dramatic adaptations.

Study shows how vitamin E can help prevent cancer

Researchers at Ohio State University identified a unique mechanism by which vitamin E inhibits the activation of an enzyme called Akt, leading to tumor cell death in prostate cancer cells. The gamma form of tocopherol was found to be the most potent anti-cancer form of vitamin E.

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.

Knowing how brown fat cells develop may help fight obesity

Researchers have discovered that a protein switch called Ebf2 determines the development of brown fat cells, which are thought to counteract obesity by burning excess energy. The study found that Ebf2 regulates the binding activity of PPAR-gamma, a protein that regulates differentiation of developing cell types.

Testing can improve learning among young and old people

A study by Rice University found that testing enhances learning among adults of all ages, improving memory retention and job performance. The research discovered that participants who took tests showed improved retention compared to restudying, even after a two-day delay.

No clear evidence that decline in HRT use linked to fall in breast cancer

A recent study published in the Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care analyzed data from three major studies on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and found no clear evidence linking its decline to a decrease in breast cancer rates. The authors point out methodological flaws in the original studies, including detection...

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.

No sons linked to lower contraception use in Nepal

A study from the University of California, San Diego found that Nepalese women who do not have sons are less likely to use birth control, with young wives being among those least likely to use contraceptives. The preference for sons over daughters is rooted in cultural bias and historical practices, affecting reproductive decision-making.

Distant planetary system is a super-sized solar system

A team of astronomers has made the most detailed examination yet of a Jupiter-like planet beyond our Solar System, discovering a cloudy atmosphere containing carbon monoxide and water vapour. The findings suggest that the system is like a scaled-up Solar System, with gas giants forming at great distances from their parent star

Hovering is a bother for bees: Fast flight is more stable

New research published in the Journal of Theoretical Biology found that bumblebees are unstable when hovering and flying slowly, but become neutral or weakly stable at medium and high flight speeds. This is due to a sideways wind made by the movement of their wings, which can be reduced by increasing speed.

Tiny implants signal new way to treat cancer tumors

Researchers are developing tiny sensory implants that can measure vital tumor factors, enabling doctors to target radiotherapy and chemotherapy for more effective treatment. The devices aim to personalize therapy based on individual patient responses, improving recovery chances.

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.

Surprising rate of women depressed after baby

A large-scale study by Northwestern University researcher Katherine L. Wisner found that 14% of new mothers screened positive for depression, with many experiencing recurrent episodes of major depression. The study emphasizes the importance of prenatal and postpartum screening to prevent mental health issues in women and their infants.

New drugs may improve quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease

Researchers have identified promising treatments for three common challenges faced by people with Parkinson's disease: blood pressure problems, the wearing-off effect, and uncontrolled symptoms. The new drugs show promise in reducing dizziness, falls, and improving motor function, offering a brighter future for those affected.

Witnessing starbursts in young galaxies

Researchers have discovered vigorous starbursts in young galaxies, indicating the universe produced stars much earlier than thought. The findings reveal a rate of star formation 1,000 times greater than today's Milky Way and provide new insights into the history of the universe.

The mysterious GRIN3A and the cause of schizophrenia

Researchers identified a rare variant in GRIN3A associated with schizophrenia, suggesting an intrinsic mechanism producing psychotic symptoms. The study supports the 'NMDA receptor hypothesis' and proposes a novel point of therapeutic intervention.

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.

New details of atomic structure of water under extreme conditions found

Researchers have uncovered the microscopic atomic structure of water at high temperatures and pressures, revealing a homogeneous molecular arrangement throughout. The findings provide insights into the unique properties of supercritical water, which may play a key role in geological processes such as ore deposits and volcanic activity.

Fungus uses copper detoxification as crafty defense mechanism

A potentially lethal fungal infection can anticipate and disarm the host's immune attack by sequestering copper, shutting down copper pumps in macrophages. This study opens new options for drug development to target the fungus's detoxification machinery.

Oh mother, where art thou?

A recent study challenges the hypothesis that mass strandings of pilot whales are driven by family relationships. The research found that stranded groups are not necessarily members of one extended family and that many calves have no identifiable mother among the other beached whales. This suggests that social bonds among kin may actua...

A better understanding of the impacts of grazing sheep

A study in Montana found that grazing sheep during fallow seasons can improve soil chemistry, increasing calcium, sulfur, and electrical conductivity. Grazing also had no negative effects on soil organic matter and crop yields, with the sheep returning phosphorus and potassium to the soil through their feces and urine.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

UK military personnel at increased risk of violent offending

Young servicemen under 30 are more likely to have a conviction for violent offending, with 20.6% vs 6.7% in the general population. Combat exposure and mental health issues also significantly increase the risk of violent behavior among military personnel.

Study: Dynamic new software improves care of aging brain

A new study introduces an automated decision-support system that enables care coordinators to track the health of older adults' brains and provide personalized care plans. The software captures and monitors various symptoms and provides evidence-based non-pharmacological protocols.

Particles and fields package integrated on upcoming Mars-bound spacecraft

The Particles and Fields Package has been integrated onto the MAVEN spacecraft, which will study the solar wind and ionosphere of Mars. The package includes six science instruments that can process up to one million events per second, measuring properties such as solar ultraviolet flux and energetic particles produced in solar storms.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pig brain models provide insights into human cognitive development

Researchers have developed a model of the pig brain to study human cognitive development, characterizing normal brain growth trajectory from neonatal period to sexual maturity. The model provides unique insights into brain structure and function, including effects of prenatal infections and early-life nutrition on brain development.

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.

Exoplanet's spectrum hints at its origin

The study of HR 8799c's atmosphere suggests a core accretion process led to its formation, similar to our Solar System's formation. The exoplanet's composition reveals an elevated carbon-to-oxygen ratio, indicating water ice grains condensed and formed the planet's solid core.

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.

Researchers divide enzyme to conquer genetic puzzle

Researchers at Rice University have found a way to divide and modify enzymes to create a genetic logic gate, which can be used to mimic digital circuitry. The discovery could lead to the development of diagnostic systems that look for signs of disease and gene therapies in one step.

'Metasurfaces' to usher in new optical technologies

Researchers have developed metasurfaces that can manipulate and control light, enabling new optical technologies with applications in solar cells, computers, and telecommunications. The technology uses metamaterials to harness surface plasmons and reduce the size of photons, promising breakthroughs in nanophotonic devices.

Cellular bells - Key step in the manufacture of red blood cells decoded

A team of EPFL researchers has identified a key step in the manufacture of red blood cells, revealing the subtle regulatory mechanisms that direct their birth. The discovery highlights the importance of mitophagy, the elimination of mitochondrial respiratory apparatus, and its modulation by KRAB-containing zinc finger proteins and KAP1.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

NASA's first laser communication system integrated, ready for launch

The Lunar Laser Communication Demonstration (LLCD) mission will demonstrate laser communications from lunar orbit to Earth at six times the rate of modern-day radio systems. The system uses a highly reliable infrared laser and sophisticated pointing technology to accurately target ground stations across distances of up to 238,900 miles.

Chemical chameleon tamed

Researchers from RUB discover that adding hydrogen molecules to CH5+ gives it a rudimentary structure, freezing its dynamically flexible form. This breakthrough could enable experimental measurements of the molecule's vibrational spectra.

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.

Garbled text messages may be the only symptoms of stroke

Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found that a 40-year-old man's inability to write coherent text messages was a key symptom of an acute ischemic stroke. The study highlights the potential use of dystextia as a diagnostic tool, particularly for patients with no other clear symptoms.

Alcohol, fibromyalgia, and quality of life

Research suggests that low to moderate drinkers of alcohol may experience lower severity of fibromyalgia symptoms, including chronic pain, fatigue, and sleep problems. Moderate drinking has also been found to improve quality of life, with benefits seen in physical function, ability to work, and overall well-being.

Predicting hotspots for future flu outbreaks

Researchers used surveillance data to identify coastal areas in China and the Nile Delta in Egypt as high-risk zones for future flu outbreaks. These regions could be targeted for increased monitoring and vaccination efforts to prevent a pandemic.

Researchers advance fight against biggest hidden virus

Researchers from Cardiff University and La Jolla Institute have identified a previously unknown cellular mechanism that could prove critical in creating a CMV vaccine. This discovery sheds light on the virus's stealthy nature and its ability to evade immune detection.

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.

How can we stlil raed words wehn teh lettres are jmbuled up?

A new test developed by researchers can better understand how the human brain decodes letter sequences and distinguish words with jumbled letters. The study aims to provide solutions for helping people with dyslexia or other reading difficulties, potentially leading to new approaches in overcoming reading problems.

Lower incidence of genital warts in young girls

A Swedish national registry study found that HPV vaccination before age 14 significantly reduced the incidence of genital warts in girls. The study also revealed socioeconomic disparities in vaccination rates, with higher educated parents more likely to vaccinate their daughters.

Study: Catheter-based varicose vein treatments more cost-effective

A new study at Henry Ford Hospital finds that catheter-based treatments are more cost-effective than traditional vein-stripping surgery. The treatment uses heat energy to seal diseased veins, restoring normal blood flow with minimal scarring and no hospitalization required.

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.

Breakthrough in battle against leukemia

Researchers have identified a carbohydrate modification on leukaemic cells that can be targeted to eradicate cancer. The study, published in Journal of Experimental Medicine, offers hope for new treatment options against drug-resistant forms of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Polycystic ovary syndrome puts glucose control in double jeopardy

Research shows PCOS affects both insulin and non-insulin approaches to glucose control, with declines in non-insulin activity seen in women with high insulin resistance. The study found visceral fat predicted difficulty controlling glucose via insulin, while subcutaneous fat was linked to regulation by non-insulin means.

Chicken pox vaccine saving children's lives

A national study of chicken pox admissions found a 68% drop in hospitalizations since the introduction of the vaccine in 2006. The results show that unvaccinated children were more likely to require intensive care treatment, highlighting the importance of herd immunity.