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Science News for November 26, 2013


Protective effects of dl-3n-butylphthalide against diffuse brain injury

A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that dl-3n-butylphthalide improved motor and sensory functions after diffuse brain injury. The compound also increased vascular density and cerebral blood flow, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for microcirculation disorders.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateNov 26, 2013

Better combustion through plasma

Researchers have discovered that introducing plasma to combustion reactions can sustain flames in conditions where they would normally be extinguished. This technology could significantly improve the efficiency of military jets, passenger planes, and unmanned drones by conserving fuel and extending flight times.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 26, 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.

Implantable slimming aid

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an implantable genetic circuit that monitors and regulates blood fat levels, reducing hunger and promoting weight loss in obese mice. The innovative device exploits the natural human satiety mechanism, providing a potential alternative to surgical interventions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2013

Researchers at Penn uncover mechanism behind blood stem cells' longevity

A study from the University of Pennsylvania has uncovered a mechanism that allows blood stem cells to divide in perpetuity, using the motor protein myosin II. The researchers found that asymmetric division is enabled by myosin IIB, which helps to partition key factors and keep one side as a stem cell.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateNov 26, 2013

Gratitude or guilt? People spend more when they 'pay it forward'

A UC Berkeley study found that shoppers spend more money when engaged in a 'pay-it-forward' chain of goodwill than when they can name their own price. The results shed light on the psychological and social forces guiding consumer decisions beyond getting the best deal.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateNov 26, 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.

High-fat diet during puberty speeds up breast cancer development

A high-fat diet starting at puberty accelerates breast cancer development and alters immune cells, leading to precancerous lesions. This type of diet may also produce a distinct gene signature consistent with basal-like breast cancers, which have a worse prognosis.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateNov 26, 2013

How can we measure the value and impact of orthopaedic care?

Researchers emphasize measuring orthopaedic care value through patient-reported outcomes and cost analysis, enabling real-time medical decision-making. The study outlines key principles for implementing value-based healthcare in musculoskeletal care.

SourceJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·JournalJBJS Reviews·DateNov 26, 2013

2009 pandemic flu death toll much higher than official worldwide estimates

A recent study estimates the global death toll from the 2009 H1N1 outbreak to be up to 203,000 respiratory deaths, significantly higher than the World Health Organization's initial count of 18,449 laboratory-confirmed cases. The pandemic disproportionately affected younger people and certain regions, such as the Americas.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 26, 2013

Google Earth reveals untold fish catches

Researchers used Google Earth satellite imagery to estimate 1,900 fishing weirs along the Persian Gulf coast in 2005, catching approximately 31,000 tonnes of fish. The official reported catch was significantly lower at 5,260 tonnes.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateNov 26, 2013

Reef fish find it's too hot to swim

Research shows ocean warming reduces swimming ability of large reef fish, impacting hunting, mating, and reproduction. The study suggests that coral trout populations may adapt to warmer temperatures, but further research is needed.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 26, 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.

Genetics contribute to increased risk for end-stage renal disease for African Americans with CKD

A large study identifies genetic variants that contribute to the progression of chronic kidney disease in African Americans. APOL1 risk variants were found to be associated with higher rates of end-stage renal disease and progression of chronic kidney disease among black patients compared to white patients, regardless of diabetes status.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 26, 2013

National study finds donor age not a factor in most corneal transplants

A national study funded by the National Eye Institute found that most corneal transplants from donors aged 34-71 have remarkable longevity, with success rates remaining steady at 75% after 10 years. Corneas from younger donors had higher success rates, while those from older donors showed slightly lower performance.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalOphthalmology·DateNov 26, 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.

FSU engineers net more than $1 million for materials research

Researchers at Florida State University have secured over $1.4 million in funding to develop a system for producing large quantities of buckypaper, a lightweight and high-performance material made from carbon nanotubes. The goal is to make the material more efficient and cost-effective for industries such as aviation and aerospace.

SourceFlorida State University·DateNov 26, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Iron preserves, hides ancient tissues in fossilized remains

A new study reveals that iron may play a role in preserving ancient tissues within dinosaur fossils, but also concealing them. Hemoglobin is identified as a key player in this process, which could lead to the recovery of more preserved tissues from well-preserved fossils.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateNov 26, 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.

Disputed asthma drugs have safe record in British Columbia

Researchers at University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health study show that a combination asthma therapy does not harm British Columbians, contradicting FDA safety concerns. The study, covering 46,000 people over 15 years, found no statistically significant increase in hospitalization rates for users.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThorax·DateNov 26, 2013

Children are significantly more likely to develop PTSD if the mother is already afflicted

A Ben-Gurion University of the Negev study suggests that children are significantly more likely to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if their mother is already afflicted with the condition. The research found that over 21% of children exhibited PTSD symptoms, often accompanied by psychosomatic complaints such as constipatio...

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Depression and Anxiety·DateNov 26, 2013

Flexible, stretchable fire-ant rafts

Researchers discovered that fire ant rafts can store energy like an elastic material and dissipate energy as a viscous material. The structure of the raft is constantly changing through active rearrangements, allowing it to adapt to external forces.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 26, 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.

Scientists discover how leukemia cells exploit 'enhancer' DNA elements to cause lethal disease

Researchers discovered a unique leukemia-specific DNA enhancer element that enables cancerous blood cells to proliferate in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a devastating and incurable cancer. The study also reveals how a new class of promising drugs, including JQ1, halt the growth of cancer cells by targeting this enhancer element.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 26, 2013

New technique for testing drugs to treat cystic fibrosis and epilepsy

Researchers at the University of Southampton have developed a new technique for testing pharmaceutical drugs, allowing for faster and less expensive evaluation of ion channels. This method uses cell-free expression mixtures and artificial membranes, enabling quicker testing of multiple types of channels simultaneously.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateNov 26, 2013

Finding hidden circles may improve social network privacy settings

Researchers created a software program to predict how users will set privacy levels for new content and connections, aiming to improve security without affecting user experience. The program shows promise in some scenarios, with accuracy rates up to 90%, but struggles with re-uploading content found from others.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputers & Security·DateNov 26, 2013

MR spectroscopy shows differences in brains of preterm infants

A study using MR spectroscopy found that preterm infants' brains develop differently than full-term infants, with a disruption in the timing and synchronization of white and gray matter maturation. This false start in brain development may contribute to long-term problems such as autism and ADHD.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 26, 2013

No qualms about quantum theory

A colloquium paper reviews selected issues with quantum theory, clarifying the distinction between mathematical tools and physical phenomena. The author debunks myths surrounding Schrödinger's cat state, measurement problem, and other misconceptions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateNov 26, 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.

Scientists design and test new approach for corneal stem cell treatments

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have developed a novel procedure to prepare human amniotic membrane for use as a scaffold for specialized stem cells, which may treat corneal diseases such as blindness. The new method promises to streamline clinical applications of cell therapies and accelerate research in this area.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 26, 2013

The lingering clouds

Researchers found that pollution decreases the size of cloud and ice particles, making them linger in the sky. This leads to taller, bigger anvil-shaped clouds that cool the earth during the day but trap heat at night.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 26, 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.

Memo to big box retailers: Goodwill has a shelf life

A new study from Columbia Business School reveals that waiting for a discounted product can significantly reduce consumer enjoyment. Retailers can add value by offering in-store promotions and instant gratification to their customers.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 26, 2013

NREL test helps make moisture barriers better

The NREL Electric Calcium Test (e-Ca) detects infinitesimally small amounts of moisture, making it 100 to 1,000 times more sensitive than other commercial tests. The test can detect water vapor transmission rates as low as one ten-millionth of a gram per square meter per day.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateNov 26, 2013

Screening new inmates for HIV may not reveal many new undetected cases, study shows

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that only 1.45% of new inmates in North Carolina prisons tested positive for HIV, with most having previously been diagnosed. The findings suggest that screening incoming prisoners may not be an effective strategy for detecting new undiagnosed cases.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA·DateNov 26, 2013

Scientists offer recommendations for delaying resistance to Bt corn in western corn rootworm

Western corn rootworm has shown resistance to Bt corn proteins, but a new study recommends using an integrated pest management approach to delay further resistance. The authors suggest rotating crops, using different Bt proteins, and implementing long-term monitoring to prolong the effectiveness of management strategies.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateNov 26, 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.

Red Squirrels showing resistance to squirrelpox

A study by the University of Liverpool found that red squirrel populations along the Sefton coastline are recovering from a serious outbreak of squirrelpox in 2008. Researchers have identified a few surviving squirrels with antibodies to the virus, suggesting some resistance to the disease.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateNov 26, 2013

Women living with HIV share their stories through photography

A University of Missouri researcher found that photovoice empowered women living with HIV to realize their strengths despite struggles. The project allowed them to reflect on their experiences and appreciate the present, giving them hope and motivation.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateNov 26, 2013

For many older adults, vision prescription differs between eyes

A study published in Optometry and Vision Science reports a high rate of anisometropia in older adults, with 32% meeting the definition of differing prescription components. The prevalence of anisometropia increased significantly with age, particularly among those over 75 years old.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateNov 26, 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.

A Whirling Dervish puts physicists in a spin

Researchers find Coriolis force crucial for creating hypnotic patterns on Dervish skirts, reproducing sharp peaks and gentle troughs. The study uses simple equations to govern cone-shaped structures' behavior when rotating.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 26, 2013

Health insurance increases preventive care but not risky behaviors

Researchers at UC Davis and University of Rochester found that having health insurance increases use of preventive services like flu shots and health screenings, but does not affect risky health behaviors. The study contradicts a common concern that expanding healthcare coverage may encourage riskier behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateNov 26, 2013

ADHD linked to social and economic disadvantage

A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found a link between childhood ADHD and socioeconomic status in the UK. The research analyzed data from over 19,500 children born between 2000 and 2002, revealing that more children with ADHD came from families below the poverty line.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateNov 26, 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.

A gene mutation for excessive alcohol drinking found

Researchers at Newcastle University have identified a gene mutation that causes mice to exhibit excessive alcohol consumption. The study found that mice with the mutation preferred drinking alcohol over water and would work to obtain it, even becoming intoxicated.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2013

Wayne State part of team for license on new ways to manage cancer with green tea extracts

Wayne State University has licensed an intellectual property portfolio claiming composition of matter and methods of use of novel analogs and derivatives of the green tea flavonoid EGCG. The collaboration, involving Q. Ping Dou and Tak-Hang Chan, aims to develop novel approaches for cancer management and related conditions.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateNov 26, 2013

Why do stroke patients show poor limb motor function recovery?

Research found that stroke patients with negative motor evoked potentials exhibit decreased fractional anisotropy values and cerebral peduncle area changes on the affected side, indicating poor limb motor function recovery. These changes occur within 1 month after disease onset and worsen over time, even at 6 months post-infarction.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateNov 26, 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.

Guard dogs reduce killing of threatened species

Research shows that livestock guarding dogs can protect farm animals from predators, resulting in a 91% reduction in livestock losses. This leads to increased tolerance of predators among farmers, allowing for greater coexistence with threatened species like cheetahs.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalWildlife Society Bulletin·DateNov 26, 2013

Treatment target identified for a public health risk parasite

Researchers at McGill University Health Centre have identified a target molecule that can block Cryptosporidium parvum's ability to evade the immune system, providing a potential treatment for this deadly parasite. The discovery could lead to an effective treatment for cryptosporidiosis, which affects millions of people worldwide.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateNov 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.

DFG establishes 9 new collaborative research centers

The DFG has approved 9 new Collaborative Research Centres (CRCs) focusing on topics such as ingestive behaviour, mathematical invariants and metal oxide-water interactions. The CRCs will receive a total of 64.4 million euros for an initial period of three years and nine months.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateNov 26, 2013

NASA sees Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alessia's remnants trying to reorganize

The remnants of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alessia have been spotted in the Northern Territory, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing infrared data revealing strong thunderstorms and potential heavy rains. The low-pressure system is expected to move slowly south before turning west towards the Timor Sea.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 26, 2013

Vanderbilt study finds limited resources for injured surgeons

A Vanderbilt University study found nearly half of orthopaedic surgeons sustain injuries during their careers, with inadequate resources available to them. The study also revealed that 38% of respondents reported no institutional resources, leading to increased lost productivity.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 26, 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.

UCLA research may help scientists understand what causes pregnancy complications

Researchers at UCLA's Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research have identified a specific type of cell and related cell communication pathway crucial for healthy placenta growth. The findings may help clarify the causes of fetal growth restriction and other pregnancy complications.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 26, 2013

Scientists characterize effects of transplanted fecal microbiota

Restoring the normal, helpful bacteria of the gut and intestines may treat patients suffering from recurrent C. difficile infections through fecal matter transplantation. The study found that transplanting fecal matter into patients with RCDI restores normal bacterial composition and resolves infection.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 26, 2013