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Science News Archive October 2013


Page 18 of 34

The cost of racial bias in economic decisions

New research suggests that racial biases impact economic decisions, leading participants to accept lower offers from White proposers and larger offers from Black proposers. The findings highlight how specific stereotypes can influence fairness perceptions, with implications for legal and economic contexts.

Home schooled children leaner than traditionally schooled kids

A recent study published in the journal Obesity found that home-schooled children were less likely to be obese and had lower calorie intakes than traditionally schooled kids. The study's lead author noted that differences may reflect the unique environment of home-school families, but further research is needed.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The sly maneuvers of the fungus fatal to frogs

Researchers found that a fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, blocks the adaptive immune response in amphibians, allowing it to survive. The study suggests that the fungus targets a conserved vulnerability shared by both amphibian and mammalian lymphocytes.

World's first mapping of America's rare plants

A comprehensive botanical data set reveals that stable climates and small habitat areas are key factors in the distribution of rare plant species. The study highlights the importance of preserving these regions from human-induced climate changes, which could threaten the survival of many unique species.

Celmatix study shows women may be stopping IVF treatment prematurely

A recent study by Celmatix Inc. suggests that women may be stopping IVF treatment prematurely, with 68% conceiving within two cycles and over half (60%) becoming pregnant if they proceeded with an additional two cycles. The study also explored genetic markers for female infertility and IVF success.

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.

Statin, osteoporosis drug combo may help treat parasitic infections

Researchers at the University of Georgia have discovered a combination of two drugs that can effectively treat toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii. The therapy uses cholesterol-lowering statin atorvastatin and osteoporosis medication zoledronic acid to block parasite replication and spread.

Depression twice as likely in migraine sufferers

A study of over 67,000 Canadians found that depression is nearly twice as prevalent among migraine sufferers as the general population, particularly among younger women and those with difficulty performing daily activities. The study also highlights a higher risk of suicidal ideation among young migraineurs.

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.

Mysterious ancient human crossed Wallace's Line

Researchers suggest that Denisovans, an ancient human relative, successfully crossed Wallace's Line, a powerful marine current, to interbreed with modern humans. This finding opens up questions about the behaviors and capabilities of this group and how far they could have spread.

Most distant gravitational lens helps weigh galaxies

Astronomers have found the most distant gravitational lens yet, which provides a rare opportunity to directly measure the mass of a distant galaxy. The discovery poses a puzzle as lenses are expected to be exceedingly rare, suggesting either luck or underestimated small galaxies in the early Universe.

Weighing up blood-thinners: Is warfarin always the best choice?

A new study by Joyce You found that newer anticoagulants are more cost-effective than warfarin when patients' therapeutic ranges drop below 60%. Warfarin is most cost-effective when patients are within the successful range for more than 70% of the time. The study's results have implications for clinicians and policymakers.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

The complicated birth of a volcano

Researchers found chemical signatures similar to plume volcanoes in the Marie Byrd Seamounts, which do not fit typical models of fire mountain formation. They propose that mantle material was shifted under oceanic plates, leading to volcanic eruptions on the adjacent seamounts.

Could Sandy happen again? Maybe, says Tufts geologist

Tufts University geologist Andrew Kemp warns that rising sea levels make coastal areas vulnerable to flooding from smaller storms. He cites glacio-isostatic adjustment and ocean thermal expansion as factors contributing to sea-level rise.

Scientists prove Heisenberg's intuition correct

An international team of scientists has provided proof of Heisenberg's error-disturbance relation, describing a reciprocal relation between position accuracy and momentum disturbance. The work has important implications for quantum cryptography and computing, reaffirming the security of quantum-encrypted messages.

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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Nanotech system, cellular heating may improve treatment of ovarian cancer

Researchers at Oregon State University developed a nanotech system that combines heat and chemotherapeutic drugs to kill 95% of ovarian cancer cells. The system uses iron oxide nanoparticles coated with a cancer-killing drug, which are heated using an oscillating magnetic field, improving efficacy while minimizing side effects.

To sleep, perchance to clean

A recent study published in Science shows that the brain's unique glymphatic system, responsible for removing waste, is highly active during sleep. This process clears away toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease, suggesting a vital function of sleep in maintaining brain health.

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.

Tropical Storm Priscilla's short life

Tropical Storm Priscilla formed and rapidly weakened over 3 days in the eastern Pacific, skipping the depression phase. Its maximum sustained winds dropped to 35 mph/55 kph within a day of formation, marking one of the shortest-lived tropical storms of the season.

Marmoset monkeys know polite conversation

Marmosets exhibit cooperative vocal exchange in a conversational manner, taking turns without interruptions, and follow unspoken rules of etiquette. This unique behavior is distinct from other animals and shares similarities with human communication patterns.

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.

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.

Is a constructive conservation the last chance for biodiversity?

The constructive conservation framework combines strategies for preserving biodiversity in both natural and designed landscapes. By prioritizing ecologically viable habitats, actively creating new ecosystems, and accepting novel ecosystems as natural landscapes, researchers aim to maximize the effective use of resources. This approach ...

The NICU environment: Not all silence is golden

Research suggests that NICU environments may affect premature infants' developmental outcomes. Private rooms showed lower language scores and motor skills in some children at 2 years old. Further research is needed to determine the optimal environment for premature infants in the NICU.

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.

Yoga accessible for the blind with new Microsoft Kinect-based program

A team of University of Washington computer scientists has developed a software program called Eyes-Free Yoga, which uses Microsoft Kinect to track body movements and provide auditory feedback for six yoga poses. The program allows blind and low-vision individuals to participate in yoga exercises in a more comfortable setting.

Using gesture and voice to control 3D molecular graphics

Scientists have developed a novel software tool, Molecular Control Toolkit, allowing researchers to intuitively control 3D molecular graphics using gestures and voice commands. This innovation enables life scientists to visualize complex molecule structures more easily, model behavior, and design better drugs.

Bacteria-eating viruses 'magic bullets in the war on superbugs'

Researchers have isolated viruses that specifically target the highly infectious hospital superbug C. diff, which can cause severe diarrhoea and dehydration. The discovery could lead to a new treatment for this condition, with the potential to revolutionise the way it is treated in clinics.

Toward a urine test for detecting blood clots

Researchers have developed a simple and reliable urine test to detect blood clots, which can cause life-threatening conditions. The test uses synthetic biomarkers that can sense vascular diseases remotely from the urine.

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.

Schizophrenia linked to abnormal brain waves

Researchers at MIT have discovered a link between abnormal brain waves and schizophrenia symptoms in mice. The study found that mice lacking the brain protein calcineurin exhibit hyperactive brain-wave oscillations during rest and impaired mental replay, mirroring some schizophrenia symptoms.

When neurons have less to say, they speak up

In a breakthrough study, researchers found that brain neurons can regulate their own activity to maintain a constant level of activity even after significant changes, such as sensory organ loss. This allows for regeneration and adaptation, essential for healthy brain function and recovery from injury.

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.

Elusive secret of HIV long-term immunity

Scientists have discovered a critical clue about why some people can control HIV without taking antiviral drugs. These 'controllers' have an extra helping of the immune protein APOBEC3G, which blocks HIV from spreading within the body.

Engine technology on the road to meeting emissions standards

A recent study on gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology found that it can reduce particulate matter emissions to meet new California and EPA standards. GDI vehicles tested over a lifetime of 150,000 miles hovered near or below the limit set by the new regulations.

Taking stock of research on sleepless soldiers

Insomnia affects up to 54% of US military personnel and veterans since 2001, with deployment-related stressors contributing to chronic sleeplessness. Behavioral interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy show promise in reducing insomnia's effects.

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.

The brain's neural thermostat

Researchers at Brandeis University observed a neural firing-rate set point in neocortical neurons, which remains stable even during sensory deprivation or sleep. This homeostatic mechanism could lead to new approaches for neurological disorders.

Farm and germ education go hand in hand

A study published in PLOS ONE found that interactive farm hygiene lessons improved students' knowledge of germ spread and prevention, especially among girls. The lesson increased post-lesson scores by 21% for girls and 14% for boys, with a total increase of 13% in hand-to-mouth behavior awareness.