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Science News Archive March 2013 - Page 16


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.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalBMC Genomics·DateMar 14, 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.

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...

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceRoyal Holloway, University of London·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Signaling·DateMar 14, 2013

Social bees mark dangerous flowers with chemical signals

Researchers found that social bees use chemical signals to mark flowers where they've been attacked, while solitary bees do not. The study suggests a link between sociability and the evolution of warning signals in bees.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceRice University·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMar 14, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateMar 14, 2013

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

SourceDunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalNature·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 14, 2013

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...

SourceAmerican Genetic Association·JournalJournal of Heredity·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceIndiana University·JournaleGEMs (Generating Evidence & Methods to improve patient outcomes)·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Neuroscience·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2013

Researchers building stronger, greener concrete with biofuel byproducts

Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a material that uses biofuel byproducts to make concrete stronger and reduce its carbon footprint. The new material replaced 20% of cement with cellulosic ash from biofuels, increasing the strength of concrete by 32%.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of Materials in Civil Engineering·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 14, 2013

'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.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceCardiff University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 14, 2013

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.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 14, 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.

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.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 13, 2013

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.

SourceGriffith University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 13, 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.

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.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 13, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalThe Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·DateMar 13, 2013