Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 13, 2013


Inter-university telecollaboration to improve academic results

Researchers from UPV/EHU and University of La Rioja implement a distance collaboration project to enhance student performance, transversal competences, and tool usage. The study reveals positive outcomes, including improved exam marks and increased team satisfaction.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalComputers & Education·DateMay 13, 2013

Study identifies possible new acute leukemia marker, treatment target

A new study identifies microRNA-155 as a potential treatment target and prognostic marker for patients with cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia. High levels of miR-155 expression are associated with poorer patient outcomes, including lower complete remission rates and shorter overall survival.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 13, 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.

CLABSI prevention efforts result in up to 200,000 infections prevented in intensive care units

Research estimates that CLABSI prevention strategies have prevented up to 200,000 central line-associated bloodstream infections among ICU patients in the US since 1990. New technologies and guidelines have improved central line insertion and maintenance practices, reducing healthcare-associated infections nationwide.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMay 13, 2013

How can advanced imaging studies enhance diabetes management?

Noninvasive imaging tests like CT, MR, and PET may help evaluate and manage diabetes by assessing changes in fat composition and distribution. This can aid in early disease detection and identify functional abnormalities before symptoms appear.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateMay 13, 2013

From ocean to land: The fishy origins of our hips

Research from Monash University reveals that human hip evolution was simpler than previously thought, with key elements present in fish ancestors. The study found that major changes could be made in just a few evolutionary steps.

SourceMonash University·JournalEvolution & Development·DateMay 13, 2013

NASA sees controlled fires in Southern Australia

Controlled fires are deliberately set by fire officials to clean out dry underbrush and debris. This strategy helps prevent devastating bushfires from getting out of control, as evident in the NASA image of southern Australia showing well-planned and controlled burns.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 13, 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.

Physicists light 'magnetic fire' to reveal energy's path

New York University physicists have found that energy is released and dispersed in magnetic materials through a process akin to forest fires. By manipulating magnetic fields, they were able to control the speed of this process and understand how energy is sustained and spreads.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 13, 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.

First X-class solar flare of 2013

The May 12, 2013 solar flare was classified as an X1.7, making it the first X-class flare of 2013 and part of the sun's normal 11-year activity cycle. The flare was associated with a coronal mass ejection (CME) that sent solar material into space, but was not Earth-directed.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 13, 2013

Leap in leukemia treatment reported by Dartmouth researchers

Researchers at Dartmouth-Hitchcock's Norris Cotton Cancer Center have found an innovative drug combination that targets the stubborn CLL cells. The combination of gossypol and navitoclax has shown to be effective in killing CLL cells, offering a new hope for patients with this disease.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalLeukemia·DateMay 13, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Brain frontal lobes not sole centre of human intelligence

Research from Durham University suggests that brain frontal lobes are not disproportionately enlarged relative to other areas in humans and other species. The study found that supposedly 'primitive' areas like the cerebellum played an equally important role in expanding the human brain.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

Searching for clandestine graves with geophysical tools

Researchers develop new techniques to detect mass graves using geophysical methods. Their project aims to refine detection methods and provide critical evidence for convicting murderers. By studying simulated clandestine graves, they hope to improve the search for missing people and bring perpetrators to justice.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateMay 13, 2013

Researchers develop smart phone app to help weight loss

Researchers developed a smart phone app to help users lose weight by carefully recording their food consumption. The app, tested with 12 overweight participants over four weeks, resulted in an average weight loss of 1.5kg. By monitoring food intake and mindful eating habits, the app aims to reduce excess calorie consumption.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateMay 13, 2013

Low carbon fuels for Canada's cement production

A Canadian research project is testing the use of low-carbon fuels from construction and demolition waste, railway ties, and asphalt shingles to power cement plants. The goal is to reduce CO2 emissions, with the potential to decrease Canada's carbon footprint by up to 3%.

SourceCMC Research Institutes·DateMay 13, 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.

Land management options outlined to address cheatgrass invasion

A new study suggests that overgrazing and other factors increase the severity of cheatgrass invasion in sagebrush steppe ecosystems. Researchers propose minimizing cumulative impact of grazing through better management to promote a diverse ecosystem and conserve native plant and wildlife species.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMay 13, 2013

Flu in pregnancy may quadruple child's risk for bipolar disorder

A recent NIH-funded study found that pregnant mothers' exposure to the flu may quadruple their child's risk for developing bipolar disorder. The research suggests a potential shared underlying cause with schizophrenia, and emphasizes the importance of preventive measures such as flu vaccination.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 13, 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.

Educating women may improve food security in Africa

A recent study suggests that empowering women farmers with knowledge of improved agricultural practices and modern storage methods can significantly increase food security in Sub-Saharan Africa. This approach has been shown to reduce poverty and post-harvest losses, leading to a more stable food supply.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·DateMay 13, 2013

Texas A&M study: Prehistoric ear bones could lead to evolutionary answers

A recent study by a team of researchers from Texas A&M University and Binghamton University has found that prehistoric ear bones could provide clues about human evolution. The discovery sheds new light on the development of modern humans and highlights the importance of studying ancient fossils.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

Non-smoking hotel rooms still expose occupants to tobacco smoke

A study found that non-smoking hotel rooms can be polluted with third-hand smoke, even if the hotel has a partial smoking ban. Non-smokers who stayed at these hotels had higher levels of nicotine and other pollutants in their urine and finger wipes compared to those staying in total smoking banned hotels.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateMay 13, 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.

Urbanization and surface warming in eastern China

A recent study found that urbanization significantly affects surface warming in eastern China, particularly in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region. The study revealed a remarkable summer warming rate of 0.132-0.250°C per decade, accounting for 36%-68% of regional warming. In contrast, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region experienced...

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateMay 13, 2013

Using earthquake sensors to track endangered whales

A study published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America uses seafloor seismic data to analyze fin whale calls, revealing new information on their movement patterns and communication habits. The research also sheds light on the animals' feeding behaviors and potential collisions with ships.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateMay 13, 2013

Job stress, unhealthy lifestyle increase risk of coronary artery disease

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that people with job stress and an unhealthy lifestyle are at a higher risk of coronary artery disease. The study analyzed data from 7 cohort studies involving 102,128 participants and found that those with job strain had a 10-year incidence rate of 18.4 per 100...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 13, 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.

The molecular basis of strawberry aroma

Researchers at TUM discovered a new compound responsible for strawberry aroma, involving a previously unknown biocatalytic process. The study reveals the biochemical pathways that produce this flavor compound, which could lead to new applications in industrial biotechnology.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 13, 2013

Productivity increases with species diversity

New research from University of Toronto Scarborough confirms that environments with distantly related plant species are more productive. The study suggests that such diversity can enhance species function and fill different environmental niches, leading to increased carbon drawdown and potential climate benefits.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

Salt levels in food still dangerously high

New Northwestern Medicine study finds sodium content in processed foods and fast-food restaurants unchanged between 2005-2011. The industry's failure to reduce salt levels poses significant public health risks, including high blood pressure and heart disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 13, 2013

Binghamton researcher studies oldest fossil hominin ear bones ever recovered

A study led by Binghamton University anthropologist Rolf Quam analyzed two species of early human ancestor in South Africa, revealing a human-like malleus that suggests changes in the bone occurred early in human evolution. The findings provide new insight into human origins and may need to be updated to include changes in this bone.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 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.

Openly gay: Does it affect performance appraisal?

A study by Clemson University researchers suggests that knowing an actor is gay has no impact on ratings of their performance. The study found that perceptions of masculinity are affected, but not acting ability.

SourceClemson University·JournalPsychology of Popular Media Culture·DateMay 13, 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.

Seabird bones reveal changes in open-ocean food chain

Researchers analyzed Hawaiian petrels' ancient and modern remains, finding a drastic shift in diet towards lower-level prey. This change coincides with the growth of industrialized fishing, prompting concerns for other species' fate.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

Routine screening for depression not recommended for adults with no apparent symptoms of depression

New guidelines from the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommend against routine screening for depression in adults without apparent symptoms. The recommendations are based on a lack of high-quality evidence on the benefits and harms of screening. Clinicians should be alert to the possibility of depression in patients wi...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 13, 2013

Photonic quantum computers: A brighter future than ever

Researchers from the University of Vienna and University of Jena have successfully realized a boson sampling computer utilizing photon mobility. This breakthrough may lead to the first outperformance of classical computers in near future.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 13, 2013

Early formula use helps some mothers breastfeed longer

Researchers at UC San Francisco found that giving small amounts of formula to infants experiencing high early weight loss can increase the length of time their mothers end up breastfeeding. This study provides evidence for the benefits of 'early limited formula' in some newborns.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMay 13, 2013

Higher child marriage rates associated with higher maternal and infant mortality

A study published in Violence Against Women reveals that countries with high girl child marriage rates have significantly higher maternal and infant mortality rates. The research suggests a 70% reduction in maternal mortality could be achieved by reducing girl child marriage rates by just 10%. The findings support greater advocacy and ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalViolence Against Women·DateMay 13, 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.

Saving the parrots: Texas A&M team sequences genome of endangered macaw birds

A Texas A&M University research team has successfully sequenced the complete genome of a Scarlet macaw, providing new insights into avian evolution and conservation. The genome analysis revealed significant differences between the macaw and chickens, shedding light on genetic factors influencing longevity and intelligence.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 13, 2013

Family trees for yeast cells

Researchers have developed a new method to analyse the genomes of yeast families, which is several hundred times faster than current methods. The new method uses barcode-enabled sequencing and allows for the analysis of tetrad relationships between spores, enabling the study of complex traits.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 13, 2013

How much a single cell breathes

Researchers have developed a method to precisely control the distance between electrodes and cells, allowing for accurate measurement of single-cell oxygen consumption. This enables quick analysis of cell activity and metabolic processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 13, 2013

MOOCs FORUM journal debuts summer 2013

The new journal MOOCs FORUM, launched in summer 2013, focuses on the development, design, and deployment of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). The journal aims to provide a neutral platform for critical evaluation of MOOC components and modules.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMOOCs FORUM·DateMay 13, 2013
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Research letter evaluates calories, fat, and sodium content in restaurant meals

A study evaluating restaurant meal nutrition found that breakfast, lunch, and dinner options were high in calories (56% of daily recommendation), fat (89%), and sodium (151% of recommended daily intake). The research highlights the need for public health initiatives to address nutritional profiles in restaurant meals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 13, 2013

Living close to major road may impair kidney function

A study of over 1,100 adults who had a stroke found that those living closest to major roads had lower kidney function and increased cardiovascular death rates. Exposure to air pollution from traffic was linked to reduced renal function and an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMay 13, 2013

Solar panels as inexpensive as paint? It's possible due to research at UB, elsewhere

Researchers at UB have made significant breakthroughs in developing photovoltaic cells that produce more power and cost less to manufacture. These devices use organic materials and plasmonic-enhanced technology to increase efficiency. The team aims to make solar panels as affordable as paint, paving the way for widespread adoption.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 13, 2013

Agent Orange exposure linked to life-threatening prostate cancer

A new analysis found a significant link between Agent Orange exposure and high-grade prostate cancer among US Veterans. Exposure to the herbicide was associated with a 52% increase in overall risk of prostate cancer detection by biopsy, as well as a 75% increase in risk of high-grade prostate cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMay 13, 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.

Study defines level of dengue virus needed for transmission

Scientists have identified the minimum dose of dengue virus needed to infect mosquitoes when bitten. This finding has significant implications for preventing the spread of the disease. The study provides a target for experimental vaccines and drugs to prevent the virus from reaching humans.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

'I care about nature, but ...'

A study by Technische Universität München found that entrepreneurs who prioritize their business goals over environmental concerns do so unconsciously, despite having strong values. Entrepreneurs with high self-efficacy and a challenging business climate were more likely to disengage from pro-environmental values.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMay 13, 2013

Receptor proteins could hold clues to antibiotic resistance in MRSA

Scientists at Imperial College London have identified four new receptors for the signalling molecule c-di-AMP, which is essential for bacterial growth and division. The discovery provides vital clues for developing new antibiotics targeting these pathways.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

Grammar errors? The brain detects them even when you are unaware

University of Oregon neuroscientists found that people's brains detect grammatical errors without conscious awareness, generating an early negative ERP response. Despite participants' lack of awareness, their brains processed the errors implicitly, suggesting a brain mechanism recognizing and reacting to them.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·DateMay 13, 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.

Circadian clock gene rhythms in brain altered in depression, UC Irvine Health study finds

Researchers found that genes controlling circadian clock rhythms are profoundly altered in the brains of people with severe depression, suggesting a physical basis for many symptoms. The study provides clues for potential new classes of compounds to rapidly treat depression by resetting abnormal clock genes.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

To suppress or to explore? Emotional strategy may influence anxiety

Researchers discovered that individuals who use an emotional regulation strategy called reappraisal tend to experience less anxiety than those who suppress their emotions. Reappraisal involves reframing a problem in a positive light, finding the positives and focusing on challenging situations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEmotion·DateMay 13, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for May 14, 2013

The US is on high alert for a potential Chinese Avian Flu pandemic, with over 100 infected and 24 deaths reported. The US Preventive Services Task Force also recommends screening all adults for alcohol misuse to reduce preventable deaths.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 13, 2013

Alligator stem cell study gives clues to tooth regeneration

Researchers from USC Keck School of Medicine have uncovered unique cellular and molecular mechanisms behind tooth renewal in American alligators. The study found that alligator teeth are complex units of three components, including a functional tooth, replacement tooth, and dental lamina, which contain stem cells for regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 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.

NASA sees a strengthening Tropical Cyclone Mahasen

Tropical Cyclone Mahasen is projected to track north through the Bay of Bengal and make landfall later this week. The storm's maximum sustained winds are expected to increase over the next couple of days, reaching hurricane force by May 15.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 13, 2013

Reversing paralysis with a restorative gel

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have invented an innovative method to repair damaged peripheral nerves, with the help of a biodegradable implant and a Guiding Regeneration Gel (GRG) that increases nerve growth. The therapy has already shown promising results in animal models and is expected to be tested clinically soon.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateMay 13, 2013

Energy supply from hydropower projects depends on rainforest conservation

Research shows that conserving rainforests in the Amazon River Basin can increase electricity production from hydropower projects by up to 30%. The study highlights the critical role of rainforests in generating rainfall and river flow, which ultimately power production.

SourceSimons Consulting·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2013

Tumor-activated protein promotes cancer spread

Researchers found that a tumor-activated protein, VEGF-C, activates integrin α4β1 on lymphatic vessels in lymph node tissues, making them more attractive to metastatic tumor cells. This highlights the way tumors can have long-range effects on other parts of the body, impacting tumor metastasis or growth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 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.

Individual and small-chain restaurant meals exceed recommended daily calorie needs

A new study reveals that individual and small-chain restaurant meals significantly exceed recommended daily calorie needs, with an average single meal containing two to three times the estimated calorie needs of an individual adult. The findings suggest that limiting menu labeling to large chain restaurants may not be enough to lower t...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 13, 2013