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Science News Archive October 2013 - Page 33


Page 33 of 34

Body contouring improves long-term weight control after gastric bypass

Patients who undergo body contouring surgery after gastric bypass have better long-term weight control, regaining less weight over time compared to those who only had bariatric surgery alone. Body contouring is considered an essential part of successful bariatric surgery, improving quality of life and weight loss maintenance.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateOct 1, 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.

UW scientist sniffs out possible new tick species

A UW professor discovered a new possible tick species that infests the noses of Ugandan chimps, suggesting it may be an underappreciated disease carrier. The tick's behavior is thought to be linked to chimp grooming habits, raising concerns about exotic tick populations and global disease spread.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateOct 1, 2013

Understanding soil nitrogen management using synchrotron technology

Scientists evaluated different sources of supplemental nitrogen fertilizer on soil organic matter composition. The results showed that organic matter in soils was heavily influenced by the type of supplemental nitrogen added, with manure-enriched soil having higher amounts of microbial turnover compounds. This study aims to optimize ni...

SourceCanadian Light Source, Inc.·JournalBiochemistry·DateOct 1, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NREL releases new roadmap to reducing solar PV 'soft costs' by 2020

The report identifies strategies to overcome market barriers and decrease soft-costs in four key areas: customer acquisition, permitting, inspection, and interconnection, installation labor, and financing. NREL aims to reduce residential solar costs by $0.65/W and commercial solar costs by $0.44/W by 2020.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateOct 1, 2013

Scientists tap into spinal response from gastric reflux

Researchers identify nerve pathways in the spinal cord that transmit pain signals from gastric reflux to the brain. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments beyond acid reduction, correcting sensitivity of nerve endings and providing balanced relief for sufferers.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNeurogastroenterology & Motility·DateOct 1, 2013

Over-the counter as effective as Rx at managing post-tonsillectomy pain

Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found that over-the-counter ibuprofen is just as effective as prescription pain medications in reducing post-operative pain after a tonsillectomy. The study, which enrolled 91 patients aged 3-38, showed no significant difference in pain control between the three groups.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateOct 1, 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.

Legionella bacteria found in compost products

A study by the University of Strathclyde found that Legionella bacteria exist in a significant number of commercial compost products in the UK. The research suggests that the bacteria are widespread in composts and could be a source of infection, especially if proper precautions are not taken.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateOct 1, 2013

Listening matters for mothers

A University of Iowa study found that mothers with prematurely born infants who participated in personal sessions with NICU nurses reported lower anxiety and depression symptoms. The sessions, led by a nurse, allowed the mothers to focus on themselves and their needs, leading to improved self-esteem and quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Perinatology·DateOct 1, 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.

New research reveals that oxytocin could make us more accepting of others

Researchers found that oxytocin can sharpen self-other differentiation, a key function in social bonding and tolerance. Participants who received oxytocin were faster at identifying new faces and rated their own face as similarly pleasant to others', indicating increased acceptance.

SourceRubenstein Associates, Inc.·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateOct 1, 2013
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Depression does not expose someone to a greater risk of cancer

Researchers conducted a 15-year follow-up study of the GAZEL cohort to investigate the link between depression and cancer. The results found no significant association between experiencing symptoms of depression and contracting specific types of cancer, including prostate, breast, colon, and leukemia.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateOct 1, 2013

Statin medications may prevent dementia and memory loss with longer use

A systematic review of statin medications found that long-term use can reduce the risk of dementia by 29%. Statins do not affect short-term memory or cognition, contradicting FDA warnings. The study's findings provide reassurance for patients and doctors prescribing statins.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateOct 1, 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.

Study reveals Americans' surprising response to government during great recession

A new study found that public support for government efforts to address social problems declined during the Great Recession, with self-identified Republicans experiencing a significant decrease in support. The researchers ruled out other explanations, attributing the shift to partisan polarization among Republicans.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateOct 1, 2013

Farmers need help to plow through new food safety regulations

New food safety regulations require farmers to implement complex measures, but many struggle with compliance. A study found that knowledge of standards improved after training, yet confidence in implementing them decreased over time. Customized and modular training programs may be more effective for small-scale farmers.

SourcePenn State·JournalFood Control·DateOct 1, 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.

Vaccination and the gentle art of persuasion

A study by Tel Aviv University researchers reveals that nearly all pediatricians in Israel strongly support the vaccination of infants, with 92% agreeing it is in their best interest. However, 37% also agree that parents have a right to decide on medical care for their children.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateOct 1, 2013

Researchers bring product testing to foster care system

Usability testing in the foster care system diagnosed what worked and didn't work with a new intervention for families, encouraging problem-solving and collaboration. The testing identified challenges, such as logistics and family engagement, but also found that nearly every parent continued through several sessions of the intervention.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·JournalEvaluation and Program Planning·DateOct 1, 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.

UT Dallas researchers find early success in new treatment for stroke recovery

Researchers at UT Dallas have developed a new treatment for stroke recovery using vagus nerve stimulation, which showed full recovery of forelimb strength in rats. The treatment involves pairing stimulation with rehabilitative training to enhance neuroplasticity and improve recovery outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateOct 1, 2013

Study led by NYU Langone researchers finds the association between a high body mass index and the risk of death due to cardiovascular disease is stronger among east Asians than south Asians

A study led by NYU Langone researchers found that body fat and mortality due to cardiovascular disease differ between south and east Asians. A high BMI above 24.9 is a strong risk factor for death among East Asians, but not among South Asians.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 1, 2013

Body image impacts on weight gain during pregnancy

Researchers studied over 400 South Australian women to understand the link between body image and excessive weight gain during pregnancy. The results show that most pregnant women who are overweight or obese under-estimate their weight, leading to a higher rate of weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalWomen and Birth·DateOct 1, 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.

'Walking droplets'

A team of researchers at MIT has successfully created walking droplets that exhibit pilot-wave dynamics in action. These droplets are reminiscent of the pilot-wave theory proposed by Louis de Broglie and were previously thought to be exclusive to the microscopic quantum realm.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateOct 1, 2013

Chemist wins prize for water-purifying tech

A young Bangladeshi chemist has developed a reactor that removes nitrates from drinking water using electrodes, a process that also preserves healthy minerals. The tech aims to improve access to clean drinking water in Bangladesh and other developing countries.

SourceTWAS·DateOct 1, 2013

Alternative to antibiotics

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have investigated how plasmas affect bacterial cells, finding that they attack the cell envelope, DNA, and proteins. This discovery could lead to the development of alternative treatments for chronic wounds and root canal disinfection.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateOct 1, 2013

How to stay sharp in retirement

A study by Concordia University researchers found that individuals who engage in cognitively demanding activities and enjoy doing so tend to experience less cognitive decline later in life. Additionally, those with even mild depressive symptoms are more likely to show a decline in brainpower after retirement.

SourceConcordia University·DateOct 1, 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.

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.

Queen's scientist to target Cystic Fibrosis superbug

A £139,000 grant will investigate how cystic fibrosis patients' immune cells are infected with the B.cepacia superbug, which causes serious lung damage. The research aims to develop molecules that can help immune cells clear invading bacteria and potentially treat the condition.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·DateOct 1, 2013

Smoking during pregnancy may increase risk of bipolar disorder in offspring

A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests a strong association between prenatal tobacco exposure and an increased risk of developing bipolar disorder (BD) in adult children. The study, which analyzed data from the Child Health and Development Study, found that maternal smoking during pregnancy was associat...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 1, 2013

New genetic discovery could reduce the guesswork in drug dosing

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered two genetic variants affecting enzyme activity, which can help predict individual drug metabolism and guide more accurate dosing. The findings suggest that one-third of people have slower or intermediate metabolism, and could improve treatment outcomes and cost of therapy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateOct 1, 2013

Restricting Voting Rights Act could mean fewer African-Americans on city councils

A new study by researchers at Rice University and others found that restricting the Voting Rights Act of 1965 could negatively impact black political representation on city councils. The study analyzed data from 1981-2006 and found that cities protected by Section 5 of the VRA saw stronger gains in African-American representation.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Politics·DateOct 1, 2013

New theory in neuroscience by UNIST Research Team: Common mechanisms in Fragile X and Down syndrome

Scientists at UNIST have identified a common mechanism in Fragile X and Down syndrome that regulates dendritic spine morphogenesis and synaptic efficacy. This discovery provides an important stepping stone in understanding the multiple roles of DSCR1 in neurons and identifying potential therapeutic targets for intellectual disabilities.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateOct 1, 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.

Total hospital cost of robotic or conventional open-chest mitral valve repair surgery is similar

A Mayo Clinic study of 370 patients found that robotic mitral valve repair surgery had similar total hospital costs to conventional open-chest methods, but patients who underwent robotic repair recovered more rapidly and returned home earlier. The study also showed that systems innovations led to a significant decrease in costs over time.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateOct 1, 2013

Clinician observations of preschoolers' behavior help to predict ADHD at school age

A new study reveals that clinician observations of preschoolers' behavior can predict the likelihood of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at school age. Parent reports and teacher assessments are also crucial in identifying children at risk, but clinician observations during psychological testing hold prognostic utility.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Abnormal Child Psychology·DateOct 1, 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.

Cocaine use can make otherwise resistant immune cells susceptible to HIV

A new UCLA study reveals that cocaine makes quiescent CD4 T cells susceptible to HIV infection. Chronic cocaine exposure can increase the pool of infected cells with a higher viral reservoir, posing significant implications for HIV-positive individuals who abuse stimulants.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateOct 1, 2013

Antimicrobial therapies linked to neonatal infection outbreaks

A study found that antimicrobial therapy was a significant risk factor for vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in a Greek NICU. Adherence to infection control measures and antimicrobial stewardship policies are crucial to prevent VRE outbreaks.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateOct 1, 2013

Research collaborative unveils novel biomarker linked to stress, resilience

Researchers have identified a novel biomarker, nerve growth factor (sNGF), linked to the body's response to stress and resilience. Higher sNGF levels during stress are associated with lower negative emotions and lower problem behaviors, suggesting its potential as a protective marker.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateOct 1, 2013