Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive October 2013


Page 7 of 34

How fat could help solve part of the diabetes problem

Researchers found a fat recycling system within pancreatic beta cells that regulates insulin production, providing a promising target for future diabetes treatments. By preventing this system from breaking down unwanted fats, scientists were able to increase insulin secretion.

First ever study of 'moral distress' among nurses in burn unit

A study by Loyola University Medical Center researchers found that nurses in a burn intensive care unit experience moral distress, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and job burnout. An educational intervention reduced moral distress scores, but not significantly enough to last six weeks after the program.

The cyber-centipede: From Linnaeus to big data

A new approach to describing new species uses big data techniques like next-gen sequencing and barcoding. This allows scientists to create detailed datasets and make it easier to manage biodiversity information.

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 to gain from view inside of fuel cells

Researchers at Simon Fraser University are using advanced Nano X-ray Computed Tomography tools to visualize hydrogen fuel cells, enabling the development of more durable and efficient fuel cells. The new technology is expected to play a key role in reducing harmful emissions in the transportation sector.

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.

'Designer' sedative may provide new alternative for colonoscopy

Remimazolam, a benzodiazepine-type sedative drug, has shown promising results as an alternative to conventional sedatives in colonoscopy procedures. The medication provides adequate sedation with a fast onset and quick recovery time, making it a valuable option for patients undergoing brief medical procedures.

Discovery could lead to anti-clotting drugs with less risk of bleeding

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a molecular switch that causes small, beneficial clots to enlarge further during wound healing. By blocking this switch, potent anti-clotting drugs can be developed to prevent large clots from forming while preserving the body's ability to form primary clots.

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.

Making complex nanoparticles easily reproducible

Case Western Reserve University researchers aim to develop processes that can be used by industry to manufacture Janus particles, which could carry paired medicines or provide unique optics for displays. The engineers focus on creating high-yield nanomanufacturing with simple processes.

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.

Fewer patients with brain injury being declared 'brain dead'

A new study published in CMAJ found that the odds of patients with brain injury deteriorating to neurologic death decreased over a 10-year period, likely due to improved care and prevention measures such as road safety initiatives and enhanced clinical care.

No running for the well-heeled

A study found that wearing high heels while running leads to increased knee motion, joint forces, and risk of ankle sprains. Regular use may contribute to osteoarthritis in the knees.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers measure flow from a nanoscale fluid jet

Researchers have verified the classical Landau-Squire theory in a nanoscale fluid jet, measuring flow rates of tens of pico liters per second. The findings suggest that the Navier-Stokes equations hold true at molecular scales, with potential applications in ultra-low-volume injectors and microfluidic logic circuits.

Snakes on the brain: Are primates hard-wired to see snakes?

Researchers found that rhesus macaque monkeys have specialized nerve cells in their brains that respond to images of snakes. This suggests that primates may have evolved to detect and avoid snakes due to the presence of venomous snakes during their ancestors' time.

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.

Sun continues to emit solar flares

The sun continues to produce mid-level and significant solar flares, including an X1.0 flare on Oct. 27 and an M5.1 flare on Oct. 28, potentially impacting Earth's atmosphere and electronic systems. The recent activity is part of the sun's normal 11-year activity cycle.

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.

Can the 'right' helmet prevent concussions?

A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that different helmet brands and custom mouth guards did not reduce concussion risk in high school football players. The study tested various mouth guard brands, including custom-fit mouth guards, and new and older football helmets.

Gold mining ravages Peru

A new study mapping gold mining in the Peruvian Amazon reveals a 400% increase in mining extent from 1999 to 2012 and tripled average annual rate of forest loss. The research used satellite monitoring and field surveys to detect small-scale mining operations, confirming up to 94% accuracy.

Super-thin membranes clear the way for chip-sized pumps

A new super-thin silicon membrane developed at the University of Rochester enables the creation of miniaturized pumps that can be powered by small batteries, paving the way for portable diagnostic devices. This breakthrough could lead to applications in medical and electronic device cooling, as well as cost-effective fabrication methods.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

VIP treatment for jet lag

A study at Washington University in St. Louis found that a small molecule called VIP can temporarily desynchronize brain cells, but also enables them to re-synchronize more quickly to abrupt shifts in daily light-dark schedules. This effect may be useful for travelers and shift workers who struggle with jet lag.

Pain processes in tennis elbow illuminated by PET scanning

Researchers from Uppsala University use PET scanning to visualize elevated levels of NK1 receptors in painful tissue, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of chronic tennis elbow. The study provides a promising diagnostic method for localizing and diagnosing soft tissue pain.

How problems with an Alzheimer's protein can jam up traffic in the brain

A new study reveals that presenilin works with enzyme GSK-3ß to control material transport through neurons. Low levels of presenilin or high levels of GSK-3ß can cause uncoordinated movement, resulting in dangerous blockages. Researchers propose a potential pathway for early intervention through drugs.

Older heart patients need personalized preventive care

A comprehensive review from the American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of personalized care for older adults with cardiovascular disease. The statement highlights key factors such as lifestyle changes, medication regimens, and revascularization strategies that can provide benefits and risks.

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.

Early skin-to-skin contact linked to higher breastfeeding rates

Research finds that early skin-to-skin contact in the delivery room significantly increases exclusive breastfeeding rates, particularly when mothers intend to breastfeed exclusively. Skin-to-skin contact and maternal intention are strongly associated with successful breastfeeding outcomes.

OU research team finds a common bioindicator resistant to insecticides

A University of Oklahoma research team found that a commonly used aquatic crustacean, Hyalella azteca, can adapt to polluted conditions and become an unreliable source of information about ecosystem health. The species' genetic mutations allow it to survive at high doses of pyrethroid insecticides.

New drug to help common bowel disease

A new drug, Linaclotide, has been found to effectively relieve abdominal pain in IBS-C patients through a novel physiological pathway. The study's findings provide significant relief for approximately one-third of IBS-C sufferers who have struggled with this debilitating condition.

Nanomaterials database improved to help consumers, scientists track products

The Nanotechnology Consumer Product Inventory has been restructured to improve its functionality and scientific credibility. The database now includes qualitative and quantitative descriptors for nanomaterials and their potential exposure routes, enabling better understanding of the risks associated with consumer products.

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.

UC develops unique nano carrier to target drug delivery to cancer cells

Researchers have developed a novel nanostructure that can carry multiple components for simultaneous detection, diagnosis, and targeted drug delivery to cancer cells. This Janus nanostructure has the potential to provide earlier diagnosis and more accurate targeting of cancer cells, reducing drug side effects.

Protecting children from firearm violence

The study found that children under 14 are four times more likely to be shot at home and are much more likely to arrive by ambulance than older teens. Older teens often walk in or are dropped off at emergency department entrances.

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.

Crying wolf: Who benefits and when?

A new study found that higher-ranking group members manipulate perceived threats to preserve their rank, while average individuals may underestimate real threats. This study highlights the dark side of cooperation and self-sacrifice in groups.

Poor motor performance linked to poor academic skills in the first school years

A new study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise found that children with poor motor performance at the start of school tend to have poorer reading and arithmetic skills than their peers. The study suggests that motor performance and movement skills are more important for academic success during the first years of school.

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.

Historic demonstration proves laser communication possible

LLCD successfully transmitted data from lunar orbit to Earth at a rate of 622 Mbps, more than six times faster than previous radio systems flown to the moon. The demonstration validated laser communication technology for future space missions.

Smokers worldwide more likely to think about kicking their habit on Mondays

A global study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Internal Medicine found that Mondays are when smokers are most likely to think about quitting. The research monitored Google search query logs from six languages and revealed a consistent pattern of quit smoking searches throughout the week.

New technology optimizes ear infection diagnosis and management

A new smartphone-enabled otoscope attachment and app has been shown to accurately diagnose acute otitis media (ear infections) in children. The device provides high-quality video images of the ear drum, allowing for better understanding of the child's diagnosis and treatment.

HPV strains affecting African-American women differ from vaccines

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that HPV subtypes affecting African-American women differ significantly from those covered by available vaccines. This disparity raises concerns about the vaccines' effectiveness in preventing cervical cancer among African-American women.

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.

Model virus structure shows why there's no cure for common cold

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have created a highly detailed structural model of the rhinovirus C, which is responsible for up to half of all childhood colds. The new model shows that the virus has distinct surface features that make it difficult for drugs to effectively target it.

Eliminating unexplained traffic jams

A new algorithm proposed by MIT professor Berthold Horn aims to alleviate traffic flow instabilities, which can cause unexplained traffic jams. The algorithm uses sensor information from cars behind and in front of each other to stabilize traffic flow and reduce the risk of jams.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.