Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive October 2013 - Page 20


Page 20 of 34

As chimpanzees grow, so does yawn contagion

As chimpanzees grow from infant to juvenile, they develop increased susceptibility to human yawn contagion. Researchers found that yawning but not nose-wiping was contagious for juvenile chimpanzees, while infants found neither contagious. The results suggest a general developmental pattern shared by humans and other animals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2013

How do ADHD medications work?

Researchers found that methylphenidate and atomoxetine, two FDA-approved ADHD medications, increase brain activation when making fine temporal distinctions. This improvement in brain function is linked to improved behavior in children with ADHD.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 16, 2013

Without plants, Earth would cook under billions of tons of additional carbon

A Princeton University study found that plants have prevented climate change by absorbing 186 billion to 192 billion tons of carbon from the atmosphere since the mid-20th century. This 'carbon sink' has kept global temperatures cooler by one-third of a degree Celsius, preventing catastrophic climate change.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2013

Dr. John Martin awarded $3.7M for movement control studies

The lab of Dr. John Martin at City College of New York has received $3.7 million for studies on movement control and recovery after brain or spinal injury. The research aims to repair damaged nervous systems and develop therapies for humans with mobility impairments.

SourceCity College of New York·DateOct 16, 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.

Sky survey captures key details of cosmic explosions

Researchers at Caltech's intermediate Palomar Transient Factory have detected a rare type of supernova in a nearby galaxy, providing evidence for the theory that it originated from a Wolf-Rayet star. Additionally, they found the afterglow of a gamma-ray burst, precisely locating its position using optical telescopes alone.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 16, 2013

Genetic mutation linked to Alzheimer's disease doubles rate of brain tissue loss, USC study shows

A new study from the University of Southern California has found that a genetic mutation associated with Alzheimer's disease can double the rate of brain tissue loss. This means that individuals carrying this mutation may experience symptoms earlier than expected, highlighting the need for targeted clinical studies and treatments.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 16, 2013

New technology that sorts cells by stiffness may help spot disease

Researchers have developed a device that can sort human cells based on their stiffness, which may help doctors diagnose diseases more accurately. The technology uses microfluidic channels and ridges to separate cells into two streams depending on their mechanical properties.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 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.

What makes a data visualization memorable?

Researchers from Harvard and MIT found that data visualizations with recognizable images, such as photographs and logos, and unusual types of charts like tree diagrams and network diagrams, are more memorable. This challenges the conventional wisdom that traditional charts are more effective.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·DateOct 16, 2013

New survey tools unveil 2 celestial explosions

Researchers have linked a new stripped-envelope supernova, named iPTF13bvn, to its star of origin using novel astronomical survey software. The team also pinpointed the first afterglow of a gamma-ray burst that was found by the Fermi satellite.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 16, 2013

Predicting health risks of everyday chemicals

The American Chemical Society is researching everyday household products' safety, but significant progress is needed. The EPA relies on multiple sources to assess chemical risks, including computer programs, buying trends data, and laboratory tests.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 16, 2013
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.

Geoscience Workforce Currents #79

A recent survey found that most master's graduates participated in at least one internship experience, leading to employment within the geosciences industry. Bachelor's and doctoral graduates, on the other hand, had lower participation rates and less favorable career outcomes.

SourceAmerican Geosciences Institute·DateOct 16, 2013

Killer whales may have menopause so grandma can look after the kids

Researchers suspect that killer whale menopause is related to the animals' social structure, where older females help protect and care for offspring and grandoffspring. The study aims to uncover why these whales evolved this trait, which may also shed light on human menopause.

SourceNatural Environment Research Council·DateOct 16, 2013

Queen's University scientists shed new light on star death

Astronomers at Queen's University Belfast have found that small and dense neutron stars with gigantic magnetic fields power the most luminous supernovae. Contrary to existing theories, these stars' findings suggest a new explanation for the brightest exploding stars in the universe.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2013

Female hormones key to breast and ovarian cancer in BRCA gene carriers

A study by UCL researchers found that abnormal levels of female hormones are a possible explanation for why women with BRCA1/2 mutations develop breast and ovarian cancer. The research suggests that targeting these hormones could lead to new ways of preventing cancers in high-risk women.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 16, 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.

Carbon cycle models underestimate indirect role of animals

Research finds that animal populations can significantly influence carbon storage and exchange in regional ecosystems, often rivaling the impact of fossil fuel emissions. This underplayed role highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the indirect effects of animals on the carbon cycle.

SourceYale School of the Environment·DateOct 16, 2013

Maximizing broccoli's cancer-fighting potential

Researchers have found that spraying broccoli with a plant hormone called methyl jasmonate boosts the levels of an enzyme that helps rid the body of carcinogens. Sulforaphane, a byproduct of glucosinolate breakdown, is a major contributor to this effect.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateOct 16, 2013

Just ask the animals!

Researchers used GPS sensors to track fishers' movements and discovered they chose routes that deviated from predicted models, highlighting the importance of considering animal behavior in landscape planning. This approach could lead to more accurate corridor predictions and improved species conservation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalLandscape Ecology·DateOct 16, 2013

UCLA to house worldwide database of brain images for chronic-pain conditions

A new Pain and Interoception Imaging Network (PAIN) will feature hundreds of brain scans and clinical information to tease out similarities and differences between chronic-pain conditions. The database aims to improve research and treatment development for conditions like migraine, irritable bowel syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateOct 16, 2013
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Quantum particles find safety in numbers

A new study by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München researchers has uncovered a novel effect that can stabilize quantum systems against decoherence. In principle, this effect offers a means to protect the integrity of quantum information and brings practical quantum computing closer to reality.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 16, 2013

Extinct 'mega claw' creature had spider-like brain

Researchers have discovered a 520-million-year-old fossilized nervous system in an extinct marine arthropod, revealing a spider-like brain structure. The ancient creature, Alalcomenaeus, had a central nervous system similar to that of horseshoe crabs and scorpions, linking its ancestors to the modern chelicerates.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2013

Lawsuits increasing over skin-related laser surgery like hair removal performed by non-physicians

A study found that lawsuits related to procedures when non-physicians operate the laser are increasing, particularly outside traditional medical settings. Non-physician operators, including nurse practitioners and medical assistants, were involved in 75.5% of hair removal lawsuits from 2004 to 2012.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateOct 16, 2013

Tip-of-the-tongue moments may be benign

Researchers found that older participants experienced more tip-of-the-tongue moments, but these experiences were not associated with actual memory problems. The study suggests that these frustrating occurrences are largely independent of each other.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 16, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Avian influenza virus detection using smell

Scientists at the Monell Chemical Senses Center and USDA have discovered that avian influenza virus can be detected based on odor changes in infected birds. The study identified specific chemical compounds associated with the odor changes, which may also serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases in humans.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2013

What makes telenovelas so popular?

Researchers found that realistic stories with identifiable characters and plots lead to 'narrative transportation,' a phenomenon where consumers mentally enter the story. Five characteristics - familiarity, attention, fantasizing ability, higher education, and female gender - contribute to this effect.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 15, 2013

This week in Molecular Biology and Evolution

A recent molecular biology study suggests a significant reduction in population sizes of common ancestors of humans and chimpanzees, from 1.2 million to 30,000, coinciding with a great ape ancestral migration event from Eurasia to Africa.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 15, 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.

Small bits of genetic material fight cancer's spread

Researchers at Princeton University have found that microRNAs can reduce the number of osteoclasts present in bones, inhibiting their forced labor. This could lead to effective treatment targets for tackling bone metastasis and help detect cancer's spread to the bone.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 15, 2013

Halloween candy spooks aging digestive systems! Research in fruit flies helps explain why

Scientists at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging have identified a mechanism that helps fruit flies adapt to diet changes as young animals, but this mechanism gets misregulated with age, leading to metabolic homeostasis disruption. The study's findings could lead to new treatments that preserve healthy metabolism during aging.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 15, 2013
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.

1 in 10 women drink a little alcohol while pregnant

A study of 66,111 pregnant women in Norway found that those with negative affectivity were more likely to engage in light alcohol use and binge drinking. This increased risk was associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression, highlighting the need for further research into this issue.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateOct 15, 2013

To live and learn: Making memories has to be a speedy business

A new study from McGill University has discovered that nerve cells have a special mechanism, known as the 'pre-assembly' technique, which enables rapid protein production at synapses. This allows the brain to quickly form memories and adapt to new experiences, with potential implications for treating neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2013

Crystal methamphetamine use by street youth increases risk of injecting drugs

Street-involved youth using crystal methamphetamine are at increased risk of injecting drugs, with the drug often used during initiation events. Researchers linked recent non-injection use of crystal methamphetamine to higher rates of subsequent injection among youth who did not inject initially.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 15, 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.

New imaging technique can identify breast cancer subtypes and early treatment response

A new optical imaging technique can accurately differentiate between breast cancer subtypes and detect responses to treatment as early as two days after therapy administration. The technique, known as optical metabolic imaging (OMI), measures the metabolic activity in cancer cells and generates distinct signatures for different types o...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateOct 15, 2013

Bone loss associated with increased production of ROS

Research identifies NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) as a promoter of bone resorption and osteoclastogenesis. Genetic disruption or inhibition of NOX4 has been shown to protect against bone loss in mouse models.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 15, 2013

Illinois river otters exposed to chemicals banned decades ago

Researchers found high concentrations of PCBs, dieldrin, and DDE in river otters, indicating potential risks to human health. The study highlights the need for further research on factors contributing to wildlife exposure to these chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEcotoxicology and Environmental Safety·DateOct 15, 2013

Veterans with Gulf War Illness show brain changes linked to memory deficits

Research confirms GWI deficits in working memory, a critical cognitive function that enables short-term retention of information. Brain alterations reveal a unique neurobiological marker that could positively identify GWI, with potential implications for Alzheimer's disease treatment.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateOct 15, 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.

Penn researchers take first step toward a macular dystrophy gene therapy

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have made an encouraging breakthrough in developing a gene therapy to treat macular dystrophy. They successfully delivered a healthy copy of the BEST1 gene to dogs using viral vectors, showing promise for preventing or restoring vision in individuals with these conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 15, 2013

How tiny organisms make a big impact on clean water

A new study reveals that microscopic suspension feeders overcome physical constraints by changing their angle relative to surfaces, maximizing access to fresh water and filtering the surrounding water. These tiny organisms filter up to 25% of seawater daily, making them essential for aquatic ecosystems.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 15, 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.

New 3-D method used to grow miniature pancreas

A team of researchers at the University of Copenhagen has developed a new 3D method to efficiently expand pancreatic cells, allowing for the growth of miniature human pancreas models. These models can be used to test new drugs and therapies for diabetes without the need for animal models.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalDevelopment·DateOct 15, 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.

Eye contact builds bedside trust

A Northwestern University study found that the amount of eye contact a doctor makes is the most important factor in patient perception of empathy. Patients also gave doctors higher scores when they engaged in social touches like handshakes or pats on the back, but excessive touches decreased empathy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Participatory Medicine·DateOct 15, 2013

UCLA, USC get $2M to develop stroke center network in Southland

A three-way partnership between UCLA, USC, and UC Irvine will form the Los Angeles–Southern California Regional Coordinating Center to address stroke prevention, acute therapy, and recovery. The network will perform five to 10 clinical trials and educate fellows in stroke translational research.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateOct 15, 2013

Restoring surgeons' sense of touch during minimally invasive surgeries

A small, wireless capsule has been developed to restore surgeons' sense of touch in minimally invasive surgeries. The system provides haptic feedback, allowing surgeons to feel pressure and tissue stiffness on a computer screen or with a commercially available 'haptic glove'.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 15, 2013

Astronomers find clues to decades-long coronal heating mystery

Researchers Drs. Michael Hahn and Daniel Wolf Savin found evidence that magnetic waves can heat the corona, depositing most of their energy at low heights for widespread heat distribution. This discovery helps answer a 70-year-old solar physics conundrum about the Sun's extreme corona temperature.

SourceColumbia University·DateOct 15, 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.

UT Southwestern reports promising new approach to drug-resistant infections

Researchers at UT Southwestern have developed a new type of antibiotic called PPMO that successfully killed a multidrug-resistant germ common to health care settings. The technology targets specific genes essential for bacterial reproduction and offers promise against the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateOct 15, 2013

Neurosurgical residents improve quality and reduce costs

Neurosurgeon residents at UCSF implemented a quality improvement program to reduce unnecessary diagnostic laboratory tests, resulting in a 47% decrease and cost savings of $1.7 million. Patient care was not compromised, and the program improved patient satisfaction and reduced hospital costs.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateOct 15, 2013