Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive May 2013 - Page 24


Page 24 of 30

Another 'trophy' for the chemistry cabinet

Scientists have discovered a stable version of a 'trophy molecule' and found its bonding properties to be surprisingly similar to those of chromium, molybdenum, and tungsten. This finding could aid in the extraction and separation of radioactive material from nuclear waste.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 7, 2013

Laminopathies: Key components in the disease mechanism identified

Mutations in lamin genes cause hereditary diseases like Emery-Dreifuss Muscular dystrophy and dilated cardiomyopathy by altering nuclear structure and gene expression. Restoring MKL1 activity may be a productive intervention mechanism for these devastating diseases.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2013

US urban trees store carbon, provide billions in economic value

The study estimates that annual net carbon uptake by these trees is 21 million tons and $1.5 billion in economic benefit. Urbanization has led to declining urban tree cover nationwide, with approximately 4 million trees lost annually.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMay 7, 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.

Biomechanical performances of old-fashioned leather and modern football helmets

Researchers found that all modern helmets provided significantly more protection than vintage leather helmets, reducing concussion risk by up to 96%. Modern helmets with lower star ratings had greater peak accelerations than higher-rated ones, highlighting the importance of helmet testing methodologies.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateMay 7, 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.

Duke researchers describe how breast cancer cells acquire drug resistance

A team of Duke researchers has discovered a previously unknown molecular network that regulates cell death and contributes to breast cancer drug resistance. The study found that high levels of the protein MDM2 block cell death signals, leading to drug resistance in breast cancer cells treated with lapatinib.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 7, 2013

Silk and cellulose biologically effective for use in stem cell cartilage repair

A study published in Biomacromolecules has identified a blend of natural fibers like cellulose and silk as a potential scaffold for stem cells to form into chondrocytes, the cells that produce healthy cartilage. The blend provides complex chemical and mechanical cues that induce stem cell differentiation without the need for expensive ...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateMay 7, 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.

Do bats know voices of friends they hang out with?

Researchers found that bats react strongly to all contact calls, regardless of familiarity. However, when presented with a call from a known bat multiple times, they showed a stronger response to other partners from their social group. This suggests individual evaluation of the voice, indicating recognition of conspecifics by sound.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateMay 7, 2013

Bacteria adapt and evade nanosilver's sting -- new study

Researchers found that certain bacteria can rapidly adapt to nanosilver's antimicrobial action, leading to the emergence of new resistant strains. This has significant implications for the widespread use of nanosilver in medicine and environmental applications.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalSmall·DateMay 7, 2013

Measuring hidden HIV

Researchers developed a mathematical model to represent HIV-infected cell reproduction, revealing significant uncontrolled replication in sanctuary sites. The discovery implies current antiretroviral therapies may not be as complete in suppressing HIV as previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalInterface·DateMay 7, 2013

Magnetic vortex antennas for wireless data transmission

Researchers have discovered a new way to create stable three-dimensional magnetic vortices in nanometer-scale systems, which can be used as antennas for wireless data transmission. The discovery could lead to improved performance and stability in applications such as mobile communications and Wi-Fi.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 7, 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.

When women sell themselves short on team projects

A new study highlights how women credit themselves in joint success, finding that they undervalue their contributions when working with men but not with other women. The research contributes to a body of work on stereotypes affecting women in the workplace and underscores how gender influences individual performance expectations.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMay 7, 2013

ASTRO and AUA issue joint guideline for radiation therapy after prostatectomy

The new guideline provides detailed direction on treatment options for prostate cancer patients, including adjuvant and salvage radiotherapy recommendations. It emphasizes the importance of informed consent and patient education on potential side effects and benefits of radiation therapy.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalInternational Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics·DateMay 7, 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.

Restless legs syndrome, insomnia and brain chemistry: A tangled mystery solved?

A study by Johns Hopkins researchers has discovered a connection between restless legs syndrome (RLS), insomnia and brain chemistry, suggesting that high levels of glutamate may be the key to understanding the condition. The findings could lead to a new approach in treating RLS and potentially other forms of insomnia.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateMay 7, 2013

Genes show 1 big European family

A recent study reveals that Europeans are genetically linked over the past thousand years, tracing back to nearly the same set of ancestors. The research found subtle local differences in genetic sequences among European populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 7, 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.

Pathogen turns protein into a virulence factor in 1 easy step

Scientists discover that Pseudomonas aeruginosa modifies elongation factor-Tu to mimic phosphorylcholine, enabling it to adhere to and invade human cells. This modification could represent a new strategy to inhibit the bacterium's virulence.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMay 7, 2013

Pitt discovery holds potential in destroying drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a potential treatment for deadly, drug-resistant bacterial infections that uses the same approach as HIV to infect cells. The new antibiotic, called engineered cationic antimicrobial peptides (eCAPs), has shown rapid destruction of bacteria resistant to standard antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMay 7, 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.

Study: MicroRNA cooperation mutes breast cancer oncogenes

Researchers discovered that combining a few microRNAs enhances anti-breast cancer activity without the unwanted side effects of amplifying a single microRNA. This technique targets tumor-specific genes while sparing healthy tissue.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateMay 7, 2013

New technique can help nanoparticles deliver drug treatments

Researchers have developed a new technique to improve the use of nanoparticles as a drug delivery system. The study found that smaller particles degrade faster in the body than predicted by in vitro measurements. By understanding this degradation, a mathematical model can be developed to optimize nanoparticle-based therapeutic systems.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateMay 7, 2013

Link between intimate partner violence and depression

A systematic review of longitudinal studies found that intimate partner violence nearly doubled the odds of subsequent depression in women. Conversely, women with depression were at increased risk of experiencing intimate partner violence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 7, 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.

Protecting the heart health of diabetic patients

Researchers found that hyperglycemia promotes the production of inflammatory cells, which contribute to plaque build-up in blood vessels. Treating diabetic mice with a drug that lowers blood sugar levels reduced circulating monocyte and neutrophil numbers and allowed plaques to heal.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 7, 2013

Salk scientists find potential therapeutic target for Cushing's disease

Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified TR4 as a protein that drives the formation of pituitary tumors in Cushing's disease, which could lead to a new therapeutic approach for this potentially life-threatening disorder. The study found that targeting this pathway could benefit treatment of CD.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2013

Gene offers clues to new treatments for a harmful blood clotting disorder

Research identifies a key gene that regulates both protection against bacterial infection and excessive blood clotting, leading to potential new treatments for deep-vein thrombosis. The study found that inhibiting the enzyme could offer hope to patients prone to clots.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2013

1 big European family

A new study published in PLOS Biology found that Europeans are closely related, sharing nearly the same set of ancestors within a thousand years. The researchers used DNA data from over 2,000 individuals to detect subtle local trends and historic migrations, revealing patterns of demographic shifts and cultural influences.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 7, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

And the beat goes on...: The reliable heartbeat of hibernators

Scientists have found that certain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids regulate the cardiac function of hibernating animals, ensuring a regular heartbeat. Hibernators show higher levels of these fatty acids in their heart tissue compared to non-hibernating animals.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2013

Combining strategies speeds the work of enzymes

Researchers found that two enzyme paradigms - free and complexed enzymes - use different mechanisms to degrade biomass at the nanometer scale. Combining these systems enhances catalytic performance, suggesting an optimal strategy may already exist.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMay 7, 2013

Discovery of new hormone opens doors to new type 2 diabetes treatments

Harvard researchers have discovered a novel hormone that regulates glucose production in the liver, offering new avenues for treating type 2 diabetes. The study found that switching off this hormone improves glucose metabolism, providing a potential therapeutic target.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 7, 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.

NREL quantifies significant value in concentrating solar power

Researchers from NREL evaluated CSP systems with thermal energy storage within the CAISO system to estimate operational factors such as fuel cost, emissions, and reliability. The analysis found significant value in dispatchable CSP, particularly when providing reserve power, which can be turned on or off during high or low demand periods.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateMay 7, 2013

New mechanism converts natural gas to energy faster, captures CO2

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new oxygen carrier that enables chemical looping combustion of natural gas up to 70 times faster. This process captures carbon dioxide while producing water vapor and energy.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMay 7, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Geneticists find causes for severe childhood epilepsies

Researchers at the University of Arizona used a state-of-the-art DNA sequencing technique to determine the genetic mutations causing severe epilepsies in seven out of ten previously undiagnosed children. The study found 15 mutations in nine children, seven of which are known or likely to cause epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalEpilepsia·DateMay 7, 2013

Nerve stimulation for severe depression changes brain function

Researchers found that vagus nerve stimulation brings about changes in brain metabolism weeks or months before patients begin to feel better. The treatment was able to improve symptoms of depression in 9 out of 13 participants, with significant changes in brain metabolism occurring far in advance of any improvement in mood.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateMay 7, 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.

TB, HIV and malaria vaccine research gets major boost

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded a $2.9 million grant to Aeras, Oxford University, and Okairos to develop novel vaccines against tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria. The collaboration aims to create scalable methods for large-scale production of multiple chimpanzee adenovirus vector constructs.

SourceBurness·DateMay 7, 2013

NREL staff recognized for breakthrough technologies

Research Fellows Mike Himmel and David Ginley honored for innovation impacts in energy systems integration and commercialization of NREL technologies. NREL has added 29 new CRADAs, attracting $8 in private investment for every dollar invested.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateMay 7, 2013

Older adults' memory lapses linked to problems processing everyday events

A recent study suggests that age-related atrophy of the medial temporal lobe (MTL) may contribute to difficulties in processing and remembering everyday events. The researchers found that older adults with MTL atrophy performed poorly in separating and chunking events, which can impact memory for everyday activities.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 7, 2013

Human brain cells developed in lab, grow in mice

Researchers at the University of California - San Francisco have developed a type of human brain cell called medial ganglionic eminence (MGE) cell that grows seamlessly when transplanted into mice. These cells have the potential to treat several types of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease,...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 7, 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.

Chaos proves superior to order

Researchers have demonstrated that chaotic systems can store more light than ordered ones in optical cavities, with applications for quantum optics and solar cells. The study found a six-fold increase in energy storage in chaotic cavities, outperforming classical counterparts.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 7, 2013

Study of new 'bone-head' hints at higher diversity of small dinosaurs

A new species of bone-headed dinosaur, Acrotholus audeti, has been identified from Alberta, Canada, representing the oldest known bone-headed dinosaur in North America. The discovery provides valuable insights into the evolution and diversity of small plant-eating dinosaurs.

SourceCleveland Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2013