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Science News Archive November 2013 - Page 20


Page 20 of 30

Bring a 50,000-degree plasma into your living room

Researchers at PPPL have developed an online experiment that allows users to control a real physics laboratory from any location. The Remote Glow Discharge Experiment enables users to interact with a plasma discharge, observing and controlling its effects on the apparatus.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 12, 2013

Penn Medicine researcher calls for halt of US health care spending spiral

Penn Medicine researcher Ezekiel J. Emanuel recommends limiting US health care cost growth to match US economy's GDP growth for improved quality of care and transformed healthcare system. The proposal involves team-based care coordination, reduced hospitalizations, and more outpatient monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateNov 12, 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.

The secrets of a bug's flight

A new experiment in Pennsylvania reveals insight into how insects fly and how to design tiny flying robots. The analysis improves understanding of insect flight and informs the design of small flying robots for various purposes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 12, 2013

Bariatric surgery can lead to premature birth

Women who have undergone bariatric surgery are at increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight, according to a large registry study. The study suggests that prenatal care should be monitored extra carefully for these women.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 12, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

ACC/AHA publish new guideline for management of blood cholesterol

The new guideline identifies four major groups of patients who will benefit from statin therapy to prevent stroke and heart attacks. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is also crucial in preventing high blood cholesterol.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 12, 2013

Conscientious people more likely to provide good customer service

Researchers found that individuals with high conscientiousness traits are more likely to exhibit effective behavior in customer service situations. The study suggests that personality plays a significant role in shaping customers' experiences.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateNov 12, 2013

Researcher finds potential new use for old drugs

A WSU-led study finds that modifying a drug to target specific human proteins could lead to new treatments for cancers and immune-related diseases. Researchers discovered that simple modifications to the drug furamidine have a major impact on its ability to affect genes.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateNov 12, 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.

A nano-sized sponge made of electrons

Researchers discovered that electrons in cerium dioxide nanoparticles behave like a cloud, distributing themselves over the entire nanoparticle. This finding challenges the traditional model of electron behavior and opens up new avenues for research on nanomaterials.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 12, 2013

The secret of short stems

Researchers found that plants with semi-dwarfism in wild Arabidopsis species have a mutated GA20ox1 allele, similar to those in rice and barley varieties bred for high yields. The mutation alters the gibberellin biosynthesis pathway, but other genes compensate for its effects.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2013

NYU researchers find a new solution in detecting breast-cancer related lymphedem

Researchers at NYU College of Nursing have developed a new method to detect breast cancer-related lymphedema using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) ratios. The study found that BIA ratios can accurately identify lymphedema in breast cancer survivors, allowing for earlier treatment and better outcomes.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal Phlebology and Lymphology·DateNov 12, 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.

Putting a new spin on tokamak disruptions

Researchers discovered that rotating plasma during disruptions can spread energy around the vessel, reducing heat load. The Alcator C-Mod team found spontaneous rotation in tokamaks, while DIII-D tested theory using 3D magnetic fields to control instability direction.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 12, 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.

Taking a new look at carbon nanotubes

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a technique to image individual carbon nanotubes, allowing for the characterization of their electronic and optical properties. This breakthrough enables the identification of specific species of nanotubes in functional devices, crucial for advancing nanotube technology.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 12, 2013

Polish study on MRI-ultrasound for targeted prostate biopsy wins CEM award

A Polish study has developed a new imaging modality using Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Ultrasound (MRIUS) to guide prostate biopsies, yielding higher sensitivity rates compared to traditional TRUS biopsies. The technology, which fuses MRI with TRUS images, allows for real-time guidance of targeted biopsies in office settings.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateNov 12, 2013

Cancer can't hide; better heart shocks; mechanical leeches

The Stanford team's molecular invention enhances the immune system's ability to kill cancer cells, while a Johns Hopkins University team develops a better heart shock system. Other notable inventions include a mechanical leech substitute and an early detection system for ovarian cancers.

SourceNational Inventors Hall of Fame·DateNov 12, 2013

Could deceased heart attack victims expand donor pool?

Researchers in the UK found that organs from selected DCD donors with pre-hospital cardiac arrest had no significant impact on graft or transplant recipient survival compared to other deceased donors. The study suggests using these organs could boost the donor pool without adverse outcomes for liver transplant recipients.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateNov 11, 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.

Understanding ourselves by studying the animal kingdom

Studies on armadillos, fruit flies, nematodes, and monkeys reveal insights into progressive blindness, brain structure, and decision-making. The findings also highlight the importance of animal models in understanding human brain function and developing medical diagnostic devices.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 11, 2013

New look identifies crucial clumping of diabetes-causing proteins

Researchers have identified a crucial intermediate step in the formation of plaque that causes type 2 diabetes. The protein amylin aggregates into plaques that kill cells, but animals resistant to the disease prevent this by targeting an earlier clumping process.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2013

Biosensor could help detect brain injuries during heart surgery

A new biosensor developed by Johns Hopkins University researchers can detect a protein associated with brain injuries, alerting doctors to devise new treatments or begin treatment more quickly. The device could help minimize brain damage and improve long-term outcomes for patients who undergo heart surgery.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalChemical Science·DateNov 11, 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.

Protein illustrates muscle damage: McMaster researchers

Researchers at McMaster University have identified a protein called Xin that serves as a biomarker for muscle damage. Xin is only detectable after muscle injury and shows a strong correlation with the degree of damage, regardless of the cause.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateNov 11, 2013

Changing the conversation -- polymers disrupt bacterial communication

Researchers have discovered that polymers can disrupt the way bacteria communicate with each other, leading to unexpected clustering behaviors. This finding has significant implications for the design of materials as antimicrobials, bioprocessing, and synthetic biology.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 11, 2013

Hospitals vary in monitoring and treatment of children with brain injury, reports study in Neurosurgery

A study published in Neurosurgery found significant variations in hospitals' management of children with traumatic brain injury, particularly in ICP monitoring and craniectomy. The study analyzed data from over 7,000 children treated at 156 US hospitals and found that rates of these interventions varied significantly between hospitals.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalNeurosurgery·DateNov 11, 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.

New research finds high tungsten levels double stroke risk

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that high concentrations of tungsten are strongly linked with an increased occurrence of stroke. The research, conducted by the University of Exeter, analyzed data from a large US health survey and found that tungsten could be a significant risk factor for stroke, even in people under 50.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 11, 2013

Mathematical analysis helps untangle bacterial chromosomes

Researchers at San Francisco State University use mathematical analysis to model the separation of bacterial chromosomes, revealing a stepwise process. This study could lead to the design of better antibacterial drugs and a deeper understanding of DNA topology.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2013
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Nail gun injuries on the rise

A new study found that nail gun injuries are increasingly common, especially among young males in work settings. The researchers also noted that public consumers are at risk of injury from these devices.

SourceWiley·JournalEmergency Medicine Australasia·DateNov 11, 2013

Teen night owls likely to perform worse academically, emotionally

A new study from the University of California, Berkeley found that teenagers who go to bed late during the school year are more prone to academic and emotional difficulties. The study analyzed data from over 2,700 U.S. adolescents and found that school-year night owls had lower GPA scores and were more vulnerable to emotional problems.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateNov 11, 2013

Methane-munching microorganisms meddle with metals

Researchers have uncovered a unique way that microorganisms on the ocean floor consume methane, utilizing a rare metal called tungsten. The discovery provides insights into how these extreme environments might change in a warming world.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateNov 11, 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.

New research identifies why young adults return to the parental home

A new study reveals that young adults are more likely to return to their parents' home after completing full-time education or experiencing a relationship break-up. The study found that men are more likely to live with their parents, but the gender gap is narrowing, and women's decisions may be influenced by different factors.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalDemography·DateNov 11, 2013

When care is omitted -- new research on a taboo topic

A study by the University of Basel found that four out of thirteen nursing activities are left undone across Europe, with psychoeducational care being the most omitted. The research highlights the negative impact on job satisfaction and suggests optimizing nurse work environments can help reduce this issue.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateNov 11, 2013

When your body needs calories, you are more inclined to help the poor

A study published in Psychological Science found that people who are hungry are more inclined to support left-wing welfare policies, challenging the traditional notion of what drives political opinions. The researchers suggest this is due to an ancestral impulse to share resources when food is scarce.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 11, 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.

Visualizing the past: Nondestructive imaging of ancient fossils

A new study by Carole Gee integrates visualization techniques to examine ancient fossils, providing a nondestructive method for studying fossil conifer seed cones up to 150 million years old. The technique uses microCT and 3D image segmentation, allowing researchers to visualize internal structures without damaging the specimens.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateNov 11, 2013

Of hurricanes, fungus and Parkinson's disease

Researchers found that a volatile organic compound emitted by fungi, 1-octen-3-ol, attacks genes responsible for dopamine transport and packaging, leading to Parkinson's-like symptoms in fruit flies. The study suggests a potential link between fungal exposure and the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 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.

Livermore researchers find tie between global precipitation and global warming

A new study by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists shows that global precipitation changes are directly affected by human activities and cannot be explained by natural variability alone. The research found that thermodynamic changes and shifts in atmospheric circulation patterns are contributing to the observed changes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2013

Gun use in PG-13 movies has more than tripled since 1985

A new study found that gun use in PG-13 movies has more than tripled since 1985, with an average of 700 segments featuring gun violence per film. The increased gun violence is concerning because it may be strengthening the 'weapons effect', where people become more aggressive after seeing a gun.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 11, 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.

Device may help doctors diagnose lethal heart rhythm in womb

A new technology has been developed to diagnose and possibly treat a deadly heart condition in unborn babies. The magnetic EKG, or magnetocardiogram, was used to diagnose long QT syndrome in fetuses with 89% accuracy, identifying those at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 2013