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Science News Archive May 2013 - Page 30


Page 30 of 30

Use of laser light yields versatile manipulation of a quantum bit

Scientists at UC Santa Barbara have successfully manipulated a quantum bit using laser light, enabling more unified and versatile control than conventional methods. This breakthrough opens up the possibility of exploring new solid-state quantum systems and potentially leading to the creation of more efficient quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2013

HPV leaves its mark in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Researchers have identified a link between HPV detection and improved survival rates in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). A specific pattern of DNA modifications associated with HPV was found to be correlated with better outcomes in OPSCC patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 1, 2013

The day NASA's Fermi dodged a 1.5-ton bullet

Fermi's spacecraft dodged a catastrophic 1.5-ton bullet from the defunct spy satellite Cosmos 1805, avoiding an extremely close encounter. The successful maneuver was executed after NASA's CARA team predicted the potential collision just one week in advance.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 1, 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.

New molecule heralds hope for muscular dystrophy treatment

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a small molecule that breaks up protein-RNA clusters causing muscular dystrophy, offering hope for treatment. The compound targets only the repeating RNA sequence, increasing regulatory activity and breaking up disease-causing clusters.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateMay 1, 2013

Half of US plastic surgeons market their practice via social media

A survey of over 5,000 US plastic surgeons found that half regularly use social media for professional practice, citing benefits such as marketing and patient education. However, some surgeons also reported negative effects, including criticisms from patients and concerns about maintaining professionalism.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMay 1, 2013

Seahorse's armor gives engineers insight into robotics designs

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a flexible robotic arm inspired by the seahorse's tail, which can be compressed to 50% of its size without permanent damage. The design uses bony plates that slide past each other, providing exceptional flexibility and protection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateMay 1, 2013

Outdoor recess time can reduce the risk of nearsightedness in children

Two studies suggest that outdoor recess time can reduce the risk of nearsightedness in children. A Taiwanese study found that mandatory outdoor play reduced nearsightedness rates, while a Danish study showed a correlation between daylight exposure and slower eye growth.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMay 1, 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.

Large genomic study identifies endometrial cancer subtypes, treatment opportunities

A large-scale genomic analysis identified distinct subtypes of endometrial cancer based on their genomic makeup, which may respond to targeted drugs already being tested in clinical trials. The findings suggest that a significant portion of high-grade endometrioid tumors should be treated more aggressively after surgery.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2013

NASA sees Cyclone Zane bearing down on Queensland, Australia

Cyclone Zane is forecasted to make landfall in northeastern Queensland on May 2, bringing strong winds and tropical storm conditions. The cyclone's maximum sustained winds were near 55 knots (63.2 mph) on May 1, with a brief weakening expected before landfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 1, 2013

Computer algorithms help find cancer connections

Researchers developed powerful data-sifting algorithms to assemble the most complete genetic profile of acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer. The work aims to lead to new AML treatments based on the genetics of each patient's disease.

SourceBrown University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 1, 2013

Self-affirmation improves problem-solving under stress

Research published in PLOS ONE found that self-affirmation exercises can improve problem-solving skills and reduce acute stress. Students who performed a self-affirmation exercise scored higher on a subsequent problem-solving task than those who did not, suggesting that self-affirmation may be a useful buffer against chronic stress.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 1, 2013

Implanted device predicts epilepsy seizures in humans

Researchers developed an implantable device that detects abnormal brain activity and predicts seizures with a high accuracy rate. The technology has the potential to improve management strategies and potentially allow patients to avoid dangerous situations.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateMay 1, 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.

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.

Shaking things up: NIST researchers propose new old way to purify carbon nanotubes

A team at NIST has developed a simple and cost-effective way to separate metallic from semiconducting carbon nanotubes, paving the way for high-purity samples in electronics applications. The method uses liquid extraction with subtle differences in polymer hydrophobicity, yielding high-resolution results.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 1, 2013

Expanding Medicaid -- mental and financial health improve, but no improvement shown in physical health

A new study from the Oregon Health Insurance Experiment shows Medicaid coverage substantially reduced depression and eliminated catastrophic medical expenditures, increasing diabetes diagnosis and medication use among low-income adults. However, it had no detectable effect on physical health outcomes such as hypertension, high choleste...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 1, 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.

Contacts uncomfortable? Changing lens type or lens care product may help

A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that changing lens type or lens care product can bring relief to about half of patients experiencing discomfort with contact lenses. The study ranked different combinations, with one showing significant improvement in ocular comfort and symptoms.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateMay 1, 2013

Printable 'bionic' ear melds electronics and biology

Scientists at Princeton University have created a fully functional ear that can 'hear' radio frequencies far beyond human capability, merging electronics with tissue through 3D printing. The bionic ear uses a coiled antenna inside a cartilage structure to sense sound and connect to electrodes.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 1, 2013

Bird fossil sheds light on how swift and hummingbird flight came to be

Researchers discover nearly complete skeleton of ancient bird, Eocypselus rowei, which lived 50 million years ago. The fossil's well-preserved feathers reveal key characteristics of the bird's wing shape, providing insights into the evolution of swift and hummingbird flight.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·DateMay 1, 2013

New brain research shows 2 parents may be better than 1

Adult human brain cell production is triggered by early life experiences, with female pups raised by two parents showing enhanced white matter production and improved motor coordination. Male pups raised by dual parents displayed increased grey matter production, improving learning and memory.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 1, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fossil of great ape sheds light on evolution

A University of Missouri expert analyzed the pelvis fragments of an early hominid fossil, revealing insights into the evolution of modern great apes. The study suggests that the ape's wider pelvis indicates greater lateral balance and stability, while its distinct finger bones indicate a different evolutionary path than initially thought.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMay 1, 2013

Global networks must be redesigned

Helbing's research reveals that global networks can amplify vulnerability to disasters, making it difficult to predict and control complex systems. By redesigning these networks with real-time data, we can enhance transparency, adaptive control, and mitigate catastrophic failures.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2013

Want to slow mental decay? Play a video game

A study from the University of Iowa found that playing a video game for ten hours can delay declines in cognitive skills by as many as seven years in older people. The game improved mental agility and sped up processing speed, preventing age-related cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 1, 2013

Rice U. professors share Lemelson-MIT award, donate prize money

Rice University bioengineering professors Rebecca Richards-Kortum and Maria Oden have won the $100,000 Lemelson-MIT Award for Global Innovation. They will donate their prize money to build a new neonatal ward at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Malawi, which has implemented Rice's low-cost health care technologies since 2007.

SourceRice University·DateMay 1, 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.

'Traffic' in our cells works both for and against us

A recent study reveals that a protein in our cells, responsible for transporting vital substances, also enables bacterial cells to develop resistance to antibiotics. This mechanism is linked to the development of antibiotic resistance and cancer drug resistance, highlighting the need for new therapeutic strategies.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2013

Investigating devastating childhood diseases just got easier

Researchers from Japan created a human Dravet syndrome model using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells, revealing the effect of SCN1A mutations on GABAergic neurons. This breakthrough provides an unparalleled insight into the mechanism behind DS and a unique platform for drug development.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Brain·DateMay 1, 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.

ATS publishes clinical practice guidelines on exercise-induced bronchoconstriction

The American Thoracic Society has released new official guidelines for the diagnosis and management of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), a common condition affecting subjects with and without asthma. The guidelines provide practical guidance for clinicians, including treatment recommendations and preventive measures.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 1, 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.

Team finds substances in honey that increase honey bee detox gene expression

A new study found that certain compounds in honey, including p-coumaric acid and propolis, can stimulate the expression of detoxification genes and immunity genes in honey bees. This suggests that a diet rich in these substances may help protect against pesticide exposure and other threats.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2013

Finding Nematostella: An ancient sea creature

Researchers studying Nematostella, a simple sea anemone, discovered that cells begin thickening and then thin out as tentacles elongate. This process drives the formation of basic epithelial appendages, revealing fundamental principles in animal body construction.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalDevelopment·DateMay 1, 2013

Health defects found in fish exposed to Deepwater Horizon oil spill

Researchers have discovered health defects in Gulf killifish embryos exposed to sediments from oiled locations, including heart defects and delayed hatching. The findings may predict longer-term impacts on killifish populations and highlight the potential risks for other species sharing similar habitats.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 1, 2013

Scientists assemble genetic playbook for acute leukemia

Researchers have identified nearly all major genetic mutations that drive acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a fast-growing blood cancer. The study paves the way for developing personalized treatment plans based on a patient's genetic profile.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 1, 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.

Genetic mutation linked with typical form of migraine

A genetic mutation in the casein kinase I delta gene has been linked to a typical form of migraine, with evidence showing its impact on pain threshold, cortical spreading depression, and astrocyte activity. This discovery offers hope for developing better therapies for migraine sufferers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 1, 2013

Special focus of the Seismological Research Letters May/June issue

Researchers are exploring new methods for detecting transient seismic activity, such as slow slip earthquakes, using GPS network data. The study aims to improve the accuracy of forecasting likely seismic activity by accurately detecting and assessing these low-frequency signals.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateMay 1, 2013

BUSM study shows positive impact of mind-body course on well-being of medical students

A Boston University School of Medicine study found that a mind-body class elective increased self-regulation and self-compassion among medical students, while decreasing perceived stress. The course, which combined mindfulness meditation and yoga, helped students better manage stress and feel more empowered to connect with patients.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalMedical Education Online·DateMay 1, 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.

'Dirty dozen' invasive species threaten UK

The study identifies 12 high-risk invasive aquatic plants and animals that pose a significant threat to UK biodiversity. The 'Dirty Dozen' includes species like the killer shrimp and Asian clam, which may spread rapidly in coastal areas with high population density and transport routes.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMay 1, 2013

Opening leadership's 'black box'

A Wake Forest University researcher and four colleagues found that measurements of brain activity in the prefrontal cortex can help assess a person's potential for leadership. Leaders with higher levels of neurological self-complexity demonstrate greater adaptability when facing novel situations.

SourceDick Jones Communications·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMay 1, 2013

Genomics to reshape endometrial cancer treatment

A new study found that adding genomics-based testing to the standard diagnostic workup could lead to a change in recommended treatment for some women. The research identified four novel genomic-based subtypes of endometrial cancer, which suggest that genetic changes can help guide treatment decisions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 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.

2 new papers on dabigatran etexilate (Pradaxa) and intracranial hemorrhage

Two new papers highlight the risks of dabigatran etexilate (Pradaxa) in cases of closed head injuries, showing a higher mortality rate and increased risk of hemorrhage progression. The studies emphasize the need for effective anticoagulation reversal protocols to improve patient outcomes.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateMay 1, 2013

Origin and diversity of novel avian influenza A H7N9 viruses causing human infection

Genetic analysis reveals potential origins of novel avian influenza A H7N9 virus, suggesting at least four possible evolutionary paths. The virus has evolved into two distinct lineages, with unknown intermediate hosts implicated, highlighting the need for global surveillance and close monitoring of domestic-poultry-to-person transmission.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 1, 2013

'Slippery slope' fears for legal euthanasia of very sick newborns unfounded

A Dutch medical protocol used to curb suffering in sick newborns reveals that euthanasia is not an abuse but a humane option for parents. The Groningen Protocol, introduced in 2005, stipulates strict criteria for euthanasia, and its review found that only two cases of infant euthanasia were reported between 2010.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateMay 1, 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.

Study: Amusement rides injure 4,400+ kids a year

A study by Nationwide Children's Hospital found that 92,885 children under 18 were treated for amusement ride-related injuries from 1990 to 2010. The most common injury types were soft tissue injuries and head/neck region injuries, with nearly one-third occurring on fixed-site rides.

SourceMediaSource·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateMay 1, 2013