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Science News Archive September 2013


Page 26 of 32

Huge gaps in hypertension management

A new study reveals significant gaps in hypertension management across the UK, US, and Canada, resulting in thousands of preventable deaths. Data from the three countries shows that high blood pressure is a leading risk factor for mortality, morbidity, quality of life, and health expenditures.

New NIH awards focus on nanopore technology for DNA sequencing

The National Human Genome Research Institute has awarded grants to eight research teams to explore nanopore-based DNA sequencing technology. This approach involves threading single DNA strands through tiny pores, allowing for real-time sequencing of individual molecules at low cost.

Growing thin films of germanium

Researchers developed a new technique to produce thin films of germanium crystals without high temperatures or other crystals as seeds. This allows for the production of large-area germanium films, opening new ways to create advanced flexible electronics.

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.

Static killers?

A recent study by Eva Maria Putz and colleagues at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna has found that phosphorylation of a specific serine residue (ser-727) in the STAT1 protein regulates natural killer cell cytotoxicity. This regulation is crucial for tumor surveillance and preventing cancer development.

Mother chimps crucial for offspring's social skills

Researchers observed that orphaned chimpanzees engaged in social play more frequently but with shorter bouts and higher aggression. In contrast, mother-reared juveniles played smoothly and successfully. The study highlights the importance of maternal care in developing social skills in young chimpanzees.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Drug patch treatment sees new breakthrough

Researchers have developed a new flexible microneedle patch that can deliver drugs directly through the skin, quickening delivery time and minimizing side effects. The breakthrough technology uses particle replication to create patches with precise control over shape and composition, reducing waste and increasing production efficiency.

Pioneer of ecological genetics

Ian T. Baldwin, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology director, was elected to the US National Academy of Sciences and German Leopoldina for his work in plant ecology and gene function research. His studies have uncovered molecular mechanisms by which plants survive adverse environmental conditions.

Powerful jets blowing material out of galaxy

Astronomers have found strong evidence that a galaxy's central black hole is blowing massive amounts of gas out of the galaxy, limiting its growth and rate of star formation. The process, observed in a galaxy called 4C12.50, is thought to be key to understanding how galaxies develop and regulate the growth of their central black holes.

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.

Relocation, relocation

Conservationists at the Zoological Society of London have devised a novel method to identify suitable new homes for animals under threat from climate change. The research uses habitat suitability maps and correctly identifies sites that will remain viable in the future.

Blue-green algae a 5-tool player in converting waste to fuel

Researchers aim to engineer microbes like Synechocystis 6803 to produce useful chemicals, overcoming challenges such as low production speeds and inefficient processes. The goal is to develop microfactories that can produce fuels and chemicals using CO2 as a carbon source.

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.

400-year study finds Northeast forests resilient, changing

A 400-year study by Harvard University researchers found that Northeastern forests have changed significantly after centuries of intensive land use. Maples have exploded across the region, while other tree types like beeches, oaks, and chestnuts show a pronounced decline. Pine numbers have shifted more than any other tree type.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Wide range of differences, mostly unseen, among humans

Researchers investigate protein diversity, finding that many small changes have no impact, but some can significantly affect functionality. The study suggests that the wide functional spectrum of proteins plays a key role in evolution, and may hold the key to personalized medicine.

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.

Space around others perceived just as our own

A recent study published in Current Biology found that the brain represents the space near others in the same way it represents the space near itself. This shared representation could help individuals interact more efficiently and understand social cues more intuitively.

Cell death protein could offer new anti-inflammatory drug target

Scientists have identified a protein called MLKL that plays a crucial role in triggering programmed cell death, known as necroptosis. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

More land needs protection to satisfy treaties, study shows

A new study reveals that only 17% of Earth's land needs to be protected to satisfy the Convention on Biological Diversity's goals, but this area must contain 67% of all plant species. Protecting these hotspots could slow biodiversity loss and meet international targets

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.

Study reveals new insight into how cheetahs catch their prey

A new study reveals that cheetahs do not just rely on speed when hunting, but also anticipate and mirror the escape tactics of their prey. The research found that cheetahs use two primary phases in their chases: a rapid acceleration to catch up with prey, followed by a slowing period to match prey-specific escape maneuvers.

Authentic brain waves improve driver security

A new authentication system using brain wave biometrics can prevent vehicle hijacking and halt intoxicated drivers. The system continuously scans the driver's brain waves to verify their identity, ensuring safe operation of vehicles carrying valuable commodities and money.

Rice University wins neuroengineering grant

Rice University has been awarded a $2.8 million National Science Foundation grant to establish a multidisciplinary training program in neuroengineering for graduate students. The program, led by bioengineer Robert Raphael, will focus on problem-based learning and the development of online educational resources.

Wellcome Trust renews support for major overseas program in Malawi

The Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme will receive £14 million over five years to continue its focus on infectious diseases and training local doctors. The program will also investigate the growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases in Africa, including diabetes and chronic lung disease.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Body's 'safety procedure' could explain autoimmune disease

Monash University researchers discovered a safety mechanism that regulates the activation of marginal zone B cells, which can turn against the body. The study found that MZ B cells have a short life span and are triggered by bacteria to express a protein called TACI.

Terramechanics research aims to keep Mars rovers rolling

A team of MIT and Washington University researchers developed a terramechanics model called Artemis, simulating rover mobility over various soil types and terrain. The model predicts safest paths for rovers and can help mission planners avoid sand traps like the Spirit rover.

Finally mapped: The brain region that distinguishes bits from bounty

Scientists have finally mapped the brain region responsible for numerosity, distinguishing between small and large quantities. The discovery reveals a topographical layout of numerosity in the human brain, with neurons organized to facilitate communication and interaction over short distances.

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.

Study IDs trouble areas, aims to speed up construction projects

A North Carolina State University study analyzed survey results of 180 construction industry professionals to identify factors contributing to time buffers. The researchers found that protecting the reputation of the construction company and delays in obtaining necessary permits can significantly lengthen time buffers.

U-M technical reports examine hydraulic fracturing in Michigan

The University of Michigan has released seven technical reports on hydraulic fracturing in Michigan, exploring its potential economic benefits and environmental risks. The studies found that while natural gas reserves exist in the state, high-volume hydraulic fracturing may not be feasible due to low gas prices and drilling costs.

Inner-ear disorders may cause hyperactivity

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that inner-ear dysfunction can cause neurological changes leading to hyperactivity in mice. The study implicated two brain proteins involved in a signaling pathway that controls movement, providing potential targets for medication.

Religious leaders can be key to biological diversity

A new study suggests that religious leaders, particularly those from Christianity, have the potential to guide conservation efforts and promote biodiversity preservation. The research highlights the importance of involving religious groups in the conservation debate, as they often shape people's ethical attitudes towards nature.

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.

Coldest brown dwarfs blur lines between stars and planets

Recent study reveals that coldest brown dwarfs are warmer than initially thought, with temperatures around 250-350 degrees Fahrenheit. This challenges current understanding of their behavior and raises questions about the role of other factors in driving chemistry at their surfaces.

What are the risks of student cyberbullying?

A survey of 4200 students found that many children are bullied online, with few understanding internet safety. Parental involvement in monitoring internet activity is also low, exacerbating the issue.

People who lie while texting take longer to respond

A study by Brigham Young University researchers found that individuals who lie in digital conversations, such as texting or social media, tend to be slower to respond, edit their messages less, and provide shorter answers compared to truthful responses.

Human gut microbes alter mouse metabolism, depending on diet

A study found that human gut bacteria can transmit lean or obese traits to mice depending on their diet, highlighting the importance of diet in shaping gut microbiota. The researchers identified specific bacterial species that play a role in metabolism and obesity, paving the way for personalized probiotic therapies.

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.

Scientists confirm existence of largest single volcano on earth

Researchers from the University of Houston have discovered the largest single volcano ever documented on Earth, dubbed Tamu Massif, covering an area roughly equivalent to the British Isles. The volcano, located off the coast of Japan, is nearly as large as Mars' Olympus Mons and features a unique shield-like shape.

Pico-world of molecular bioscavengers, mops and sponges being designed

Researchers have created a protein molecule that can be programmed to unite with three different steroids, opening up possibilities for biosensors, molecular sponges, and synthetic biology. The breakthrough could lead to detection of biomolecules in early-stage cancer and treatment of overdoses.

Social media + behavior psychology leads to HIV testing, better health behaviors

A UCLA study demonstrates that combining behavioral science with social media and online communities can lead to increased HIV testing and encouraged significant behavioral change among high-risk groups. The approach proved to be one of the best HIV-prevention methods on the Internet, with high retention rates and successful engagement.

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.

Lung conditions responsible for 1 in 10 of all deaths in Europe

A new publication by the European Respiratory Society reveals that lung conditions account for 12.5% of EU deaths, with annual costs totaling at least 390 billion Euros. The White Book estimates direct and indirect costs due to lung diseases are around 400 billion Euros annually.

Interstellar winds buffeting our solar system have shifted direction

Scientists mapping our location in the Milky Way galaxy discover interstellar wind changes over decades, impacting our sun's heliosphere and cosmic radiation protection. The study's findings provide deeper insight into dynamic interstellar winds, crucial for understanding our place in the cosmos.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Cheaper Chinese solar panels are not due to low-cost labor

A study reveals that China's dominance in solar panel manufacturing is driven by larger-scale production and supply-chain benefits, not just cheaper labor. Future innovations in crystalline solar cell technology may help equalize prices by enhancing access to materials and expanding manufacturing scale across regions.