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Science News Archive May 2013 - Page 6


Page 6 of 30

Soda and illegal drugs cause similar damage to teeth

A study published in General Dentistry found that soda consumption, especially diet soda, can cause severe tooth erosion and damage similar to methamphetamine and crack cocaine use. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends minimizing soda intake and using sugar-free gum or rinsing with water after consumption.

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateMay 28, 2013

Crystal-clear method for distinguishing between glass and fluids

Researchers developed a simple model to explain the difference between glass and molten materials, with spherical plastic particles in aqueous solution. The study found that internal tensile stresses persisted in the glassy state, distinguishing it from fluid behavior.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 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 perks don't work

A study by University of British Columbia researchers found that consumers experience social awkwardness when given free upgrades in front of others, leading to a decline in satisfaction and shorter browsing times. The study suggests that retailers should offer perks privately to avoid embarrassment.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 27, 2013

The Bechstein's bat is more Mediterranean than originally thought

A recent study challenges traditional views on Bechstein's bat distribution, suggesting that historical changes in its habitat rather than climate may be responsible. The research found that the species' ecological niche is narrow and flexible, with adaptable roosting and hunting habits.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateMay 27, 2013

Decision-making preferences among patients with heart attacks

A study of 6,636 patients with heart attacks found that two-thirds prefer an active role in decision-making. Physicians who provide patient-centered care should directly ask patients about their decision-making preferences. The study aims to develop systems that respect these preferences and give patients the opportunity they desire.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Down syndrome neurons grown from stem cells show signature problems

New study finds Down syndrome neurons have reduced connections and high levels of oxidative stress, which could contribute to accelerated aging and increased susceptibility to Alzheimer's disease. Researchers hope to use these cells to test potential treatments for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 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.

How do plants grow toward the light?

Researchers at TUM discovered that auxin hormone plays a crucial role in plant growth towards light. By understanding the auxin transport mechanism, they were able to prove its involvement in phototropism for the first time. The study highlights the importance of auxin in regulating plant cell elongation and responding to light signals.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 27, 2013

When doctors and patients share in decisions, hospital costs go up

A hospital-based study found that patients who want to participate in their medical decisions end up spending more time in the hospital and raising costs of their hospital stay by an average of $865. The study suggests that encouraging patients to be more involved may not reduce costs, but rather increase length of stay and costs. Prov...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 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.

Salmonella uses protective switch during infection

Researchers found a protective molecular switch in Salmonella Typhimurium that helps the bacteria adapt to hostile environments during infection. This switch, using S-thiolation, may provide insight into fighting systemic illness and could be exploited to develop new treatments.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

All in one shot

Researchers have discovered a common sugar molecule on the cell surface of multiple pathogens, which could be key to developing a broad-spectrum vaccine. The sugar polymer, known as PNAG, is found on the surfaces of bacteria that cause strep throat, pneumonias, malaria, and other deadly infections.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

Snail shell coiling programmed by protein patterning

Research found that snails' coiled shells are driven by a protein gradient and asymmetry in Decapentaplegic expression, contrasting with limpet shells which lack this asymmetry. The study provides an explanation for the evolution of shell coiling in gastropods.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEvoDevo·DateMay 27, 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.

Surge in children accidentally eating marijuana-laced foods

A new study by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found a significant increase in unintentional ingestions of marijuana by children since Colorado's drug laws modification in 2009. The number of children treated for exposure to marijuana increased from zero before 2009 to 588 after October 1, 2009.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 27, 2013

Communication between physicians and patients important for expectations

A study found that seriously ill patients undergoing hemodialysis tend to be more optimistic than their physicians about their prognosis. Nephrologists rarely discuss estimated life-expectancy with patients, instead leaving it to patients to over-estimate their long-term survival rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013

KISS ME DEADLY proteins may help improve crop yields

A new regulator for plant hormone signaling, the KISS ME DEADLY family of proteins (KMDs), has been identified by Dartmouth researchers. This discovery may lead to improved agricultural productivity and increased crop yields.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

The formula for turning cement into metal

Researchers from Argonne National Laboratory have created a semi-conductor material by turning liquid cement into liquid metal through electron trapping. This process creates metallic-glass material with positive attributes including conductivity, fluidity, and low energy loss.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 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.

Preterm birth affects ability to solve complex cognitive tasks

Researchers found that preterm children's cognitive performance deficits increase with task complexity and decrease with pregnancy duration. The study suggests that educational interventions could be developed to promote academic attainment in preterm children.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 27, 2013

How patient centered are medical decisions?

A national survey found that adults often did not make informed medical decisions due to insufficient shared decision-making. Healthcare providers need to improve patient engagement by balancing discussions on pros and cons and regularly seeking patient input.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013
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.

New safety test predicts reactions to novel drugs and cosmetics

A new skin test called Skimune has been developed by Newcastle University to predict adverse reactions to new drugs and cosmetics. The test uses real human skin and immune cells to identify potential risks, providing a faster and more accurate alternative to animal testing.

SourceNewcastle University·DateMay 27, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for May 28, 2013

Researchers found that using the oral glucose challenge test (OGCT) with a glucose threshold of 7.2 mmol/L had a sensitivity of 99 percent and specificity of 77 percent for diagnosing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). GDM screening may also reduce complications such as preeclampsia, shoulder dystocia, and high birth weight.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013

Stem cell injections improve spinal injuries in rats

A single injection of human neural stem cells produced therapeutic benefits in rats with acute spinal cord injury, including improved function and mobility. The grafted stem cells stimulated host neuron regeneration and partially replaced the function of lost neurons, reducing muscle spasticity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·DateMay 27, 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.

Elsevier launches new open access journal: Translational Proteomics

The new journal aims to cover all areas of research in human proteomics, using multi-disciplinary approaches to untangle complex disease processes. It will provide a platform for high-quality, multi-disciplinary studies combining early discovery with clinical applications.

SourceElsevier·JournalTranslational Proteomics·DateMay 27, 2013

Rats have a double view of the world

Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that rats move their eyes in opposite directions, allowing them to maintain a constant binocular field and detect potential threats. This adaptation is thought to increase their chances of survival against birds and other predators.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2013

Colon cancer screening: Immunological tests are superior

A large-scale study has shown that immunological stool tests are more sensitive than enzyme-based tests in detecting colon cancer and precancerous lesions. The tests detected about twice as many cancer cases and three times as many advanced precancerous lesions, with a higher specificity rate.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·DateMay 27, 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.

Scientists narrow global warming range

Researchers used a new method combining observations and climate models to project future warming, finding 63% of uncertainty came from single sources such as climate sensitivity. The study suggests that exceeding 6 degrees warming is unlikely, while exceeding 2 degrees is very likely for business-as-usual emissions.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 26, 2013

Climate researchers discover new rhythm for El Niño

Researchers discovered a 15-month wind pattern that explains El Niño's close ties to the annual cycle. This unusual atmospheric pattern triggers droughts and floods in various regions. The study suggests that improved climate models will improve El Niño forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 26, 2013

New gene discovery for babies born with hole in the heart

Researchers discovered a new gene associated with congenital heart disease, specifically atrial septal defect (ASD), which may help improve genetic counselling and understanding of normal development. The study involved over 2,000 patients and found a strong association between the Msx1 gene and risk of ASD.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 26, 2013

New 1-step process for designer bacteria

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new one-step process called 'clonetegration' that simplifies the production of designer bacteria. This faster method enables multiple rounds of genetic engineering on the same bacteria and simultaneous integration of multiple genes, accelerating therapeutic drug development.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateMay 26, 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.

Finding a genetic cause for severe childhood epilepsies

A large scientific study has discovered two new genes associated with severe seizure disorders in infants and children. The finding will lead to new tests to diagnose these conditions and promises to improve outcomes for affected families.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 26, 2013

RELAX-AHF shows first positive findings in HFpEF patients

The RELAX-AHF trial demonstrated serelaxin's efficacy in relieving dyspnea in HFpEF patients, particularly within the first 24 hours. The VIVIDD trial also showed vildagliptin to be non-inferior to placebo in improving LVEF in HFrEF patients with type 2 diabetes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMay 26, 2013

Stanford researchers identify genetic suspects in sporadic Lou Gehrig's disease

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified mutations in genes that encode chromatin regulators, which may contribute to the development of sporadic ALS. The study found 25 de novo mutations, including five in chromatin regulatory proteins, which could serve as potential therapeutic targets.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 26, 2013

Scientists discover the origin of a giant synapse

Researchers have identified a protein responsible for controlling the growth of gigantic synapses in the auditory part of the brain. These massive synapses allow for rapid signal transmission, outpacing other neuronal circuits by a fraction of a millisecond, enabling humans to pinpoint sound sources with remarkable accuracy.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 26, 2013

Models from big molecules captured in a flash

Researchers develop a new method to model large biomolecules in their native state using X-ray flash data, providing insights into protein structures and dynamic behavior. This technique promises to solve the shapes of more than 80,000 proteins in a static state and offer clues on individual components of mixtures.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 26, 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.

June 2013 LITHOSPHERE now online

Studies in Western Europe reveal local forces driving tectonic activity, while a paper on the Osa Peninsula describes rapid vertical deformation of crustal blocks. Another study examines the extension of an orogenic wedge through the exhumation of high-pressure terranes in Norway.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateMay 24, 2013

New analysis yields improvements in a classic 3-D imaging technique

Research at Curtin University has enabled major improvements in the widely used century-old 3D printing technique Anaglyph printing. The team targeted crosstalk problems visible as ghost-like shadows and found potential solutions by changing cyan ink, optimizing glasses and light sources, and using improved image processing algorithms.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateMay 24, 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.

Heart failure accelerates male 'menopause'

Research presented at the Heart Failure Congress 2013 found that heart failure accelerates the natural process of aging and favours early onset of male 'menopause', also known as andropausal syndrome. The prevalence of AS was four times higher in men with heart failure compared to healthy peers.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMay 24, 2013

First drug to improve heart failure mortality in over a decade

A randomized double-blind trial showed that Coenzyme Q10 decreases all-cause mortality by half, improving survival in severe heart failure patients. The study found that CoQ10 also significantly lowers cardiovascular mortality and hospitalizations for heart failure.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMay 24, 2013

Going live -- immune cell activation in multiple sclerosis

Scientists have developed two new indicator molecules that can visualize the activation of auto-aggressive T cells in the body, shedding light on the autoimmune disease multiple sclerosis. The indicators enable researchers to track T cell activity and activation patterns in real-time, offering new avenues for drug development.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 24, 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.

Proteins in migration

Scientists develop new animal model to study Parkinson's disease, tracing protein spreading in brain regions. The experiment reveals clues on mechanisms underlying pathological progression.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMay 24, 2013