Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2013 - Page 24


Page 24 of 32

STING may take the bite out of autoimmune diseases like arthritis, Type 1 diabetes

Researchers discover STING's critical role in treating autoimmune diseases by evoking expression of enzyme IDO, which blocks immune attack on healthy body constituents. Mice with STING deficiency had no response to DNA nanoparticles, highlighting the protein's essential role in recognizing the molecule that senses DNA.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateSep 9, 2013

'Young Chinese people disappointed with German companies'

A study by sociologist Junchen Yan found that young Chinese employees are disappointed with career opportunities in Western companies, citing flat hierarchies and limited promotion. The researcher suggests that companies should improve their communication with employees regarding career objectives and work on increasing their image in ...

SourceUniversity of Münster·DateSep 9, 2013

Butterfly wings inspire new technologies: from fabrics and cosmetics to sensors

Researchers have discovered the unique properties of Morpho butterfly wings that can be used to develop innovative technologies. The study found that the physical structure and surface chemistry of the wings provide surprising properties for applications such as photonic security tags, sensors and self-cleaning surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

Study finds men are more likely to develop physical illness than women

A recent study published in Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that men are at a higher risk of developing physical illnesses compared to women. Having a mental illness increases the risk by 10 times, with women experiencing a physical illness a year earlier than men.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateSep 9, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UCI researchers fabricate new camouflage coating from squid protein

UCI researchers develop a biomimetic infrared camouflage coating using squid protein reflectin, allowing it to mimic the dynamic coloration and reflectance of squid skin. The material can disappear and reappear when visualized with an infrared camera.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 9, 2013

Scientific symposium today on green chemistry and the environment

Scientists present innovative approaches to reduce hazardous substances in production processes, using renewable materials and minimizing waste. The symposium features topics such as banana-peel powder removal of toxic metals from water and sustainable nanoparticle production.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2013

Accidental nanoparticle discovery could hail revolution in manufacturing

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London discovered a novel nanoparticle with magnetic properties, revealing potential applications in battery technology and cancer therapies. The sea urchin-shaped nanoparticles consist of iron-filled nanotubes with unique properties that can be manipulated for various uses.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCarbon·DateSep 9, 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.

Futile treatment in critical care common, costs can be substantial

A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that critically ill patients often receive futile treatment, with estimated costs of $2.6 million over three months. The most common reason for perceiving treatment as futile was the significant burden it placed on the patient's quality of life.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 9, 2013

Effects of climate change on West Nile virus

A study projects how climate change affects West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes across the southern US, with changes varying by region. Warmer temperatures and drier conditions may lead to longer mosquito seasons but smaller summer populations.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013
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.

Household routines may help reduce BMI in minority children

A study published by JAMA Pediatrics found that improving household routines associated with obesity can increase sleep duration and reduce TV viewing among low-income, minority children. The intervention also resulted in a decrease in body mass index (BMI) over six months.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 9, 2013

Chemists find new way to put the brakes on cancer

Researchers at NYU and USC have developed a synthetic molecule that targets the interaction between two proteins, preventing tumor growth. The approach presents a new frontier in cancer research, offering potential for the treatment of various human diseases.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

Study uncovers value of mammogram screening for younger women

A new analysis reveals that regular mammograms before age 50 significantly reduce breast cancer deaths in younger women. The study analyzed data from invasive breast cancers diagnosed between 1990 and 1999, finding that only 13% of cases occurred in women aged 70 or older.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateSep 9, 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.

Cell transplants may be a novel treatment for schizophrenia

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio suggest that cell transplants could be a promising treatment for schizophrenia. By transplanting interneurons into the brain, they were able to restore normal function in rats with impaired dopamine systems, which are involved in cognition, movement, and emotions.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 9, 2013

Cancer researchers discover root cause of multiple myeloma relapse

Multiple myeloma patients experience persistent disease recurrence due to intrinsic resistance in immature progenitor cells. Researchers identify a cancer cell maturation hierarchy and propose targeting both progenitor cells and plasma cells to develop new treatments.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 9, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Ants turn unwelcome lodgers into a useful standing army

Researchers found that permanent parasites that are normally a social burden protect their hosts against greater evils. The guest ants rise to defend their hosts against mobile raiders, greatly decreasing the probability of a raid. This co-evolutionary process maintains lesser evils when it helps prevent greater harm.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

NSF awards $25 million to establish Center for Brains, Minds and Machines

The Center for Brains, Minds and Machines aims to foster collaboration across disciplines to understand intelligence and develop intelligent machines. The center will focus on four main research themes: integrating intelligence, circuits for intelligence, developing intelligence in children, and social intelligence.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 9, 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.

Insulin secretion disrupted by increased fatty acids

Researchers found that increased fatty acid levels suppress incretin-associated insulin release, highlighting the importance of β cell connectivity. Maintaining β cell connectivity may be a useful strategy for restoring glucose balance in type 2 diabetes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 9, 2013

Programmable glue made of DNA directs tiny gel bricks to self-assemble

Researchers at Harvard University developed a programmable DNA glue that directs tiny gel bricks to self-assemble into complex structures. The method could help solve tissue engineering challenges by creating injectable components that self-assemble into biocompatible scaffolds.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 9, 2013

New 10 second sourcing technology set to transform archaeology

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new method for sourcing obsidian artefacts that takes only 10 seconds, dozens of times faster than current methods. The handheld instrument uses portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) and enables archaeologists to identify origins in the field.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateSep 9, 2013

Dingo wrongly blamed for extinctions

A University of Adelaide study finds that Aboriginal populations and climate change were more likely responsible for the extinction of Tasmanian tigers and devils on the mainland. The research used complex models to recreate the dynamic interaction between dingoes, climate, and human populations.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology·DateSep 9, 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.

Moving genes have scientists seeing spots

Researchers watched genes move together in response to environmental changes, a discovery that could improve understanding of gene expression and its impact on nature. The technique allows scientists to monitor a gene in whole, living organisms, opening up new avenues for research.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 9, 2013

A swarm on every desktop: Robotics experts learn from public

Rice University's Multi-Robot Systems Laboratory researchers gather data from online game SwarmControl.net to develop new control algorithms for robotic swarms. They demonstrate complex behaviors with simple commands, showcasing potential for massive populations of robots to perform coordinated tasks.

SourceRice University·DateSep 9, 2013

Wireless network detects falls by the elderly

University of Utah engineers developed a wireless sensor network that can detect falls without wearing devices. The system uses radio-frequency sensors to track a person's location and distinguish between falls and benign activities.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateSep 9, 2013

All set for The EMBO Meeting 2013

The EMBO Meeting 2013 conference will feature keynote lectures by prominent scientists, including Kai Simons, Hans Clevers, Sir Michael Stratton, Peter Hegemann, and Georg Nagel. The scientific programme will include sessions on stem cells, cancer genomics, optogenetics, and the search for life beyond Earth.

SourceEMBO·DateSep 9, 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.

JCI early table of contents for Sept. 9, 2013

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identify fibroblast growth factor 18 (FGF18) as a predictive marker for poor overall survival in ovarian cancer patients. Overexpression of the gene encoding FGF18 was associated with enhanced tumor blood vessel formation and expression of cancer-promoting cytokines.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 9, 2013

New report finds no evidence that safety-net patients receive substandard primary care

A new study by George Washington University researchers finds no evidence that primary care physicians deliver less care to low-income and vulnerable patients. Despite critics' claims of substandard care, the study analyzed data from over 31,000 visits and found comparable care for all patients regardless of insurance status.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 9, 2013

Toward making people invisible to mosquitoes

Researchers have identified compounds found on human skin that impede mosquitoes' ability to detect their victims, providing a promising new approach to preventing mosquito bites. These substances, including lactic acid and 1-methylpiperzine, are already used in various medicines and products.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 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.

MRI spectroscopy is highly sensitive for lipid-soluble metabolites from UC-MSCs

Researchers developed a method to extract and analyze lipid-soluble metabolites from human mesenchymal stem cells using MRI spectroscopy. The technique provides valuable insights into the metabolic characteristics of MSCs, which is essential for optimizing detection efficiency while minimizing cell usage.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 9, 2013

Undervaccination appears associated with increased risk of whooping cough

A study by Jason M. Glanz and colleagues found that undervaccination with the DTaP vaccine increases the risk of pertussis in children aged 3-36 months. The research involved 72 cases of pertussis and 288 controls, showing that undervaccinated children were 18.56 times more likely to contract the disease than their vaccinated peers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 9, 2013

Rim Fire update Sept. 9, 2013

The Rim Fire has burned over 385 square miles, 80% containment achieved, but low humidity threatens growth. Spot fires remain a concern, with firefighters patrolling to mop up and monitor lines.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 9, 2013

New kind of ultraviolet LED could lead to portable, low-cost devices

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new kind of ultraviolet LED that emits light at specific wavelengths, making it suitable for commercial applications such as chemical detection, disinfection, and UV curing. The device runs on lower voltages than existing methods, making it more compact and potentially cost-effective.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 9, 2013
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.

Role of autophagic and lysosomal pathways in ischemic brain injury

The study highlights the importance of autophagic and lysosomal activity in ischemic neurons, providing nutrition and energy for their survival. Upregulating cell autophagy or inhibiting autophagy may help eliminate abnormal components in cells after ischemic brain injury.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 9, 2013

The new face of Medicaid: Incoming enrollees may be younger; more white men, smokers, drinkers

A new University of Michigan study reveals that incoming Medicaid enrollees may be younger, whiter, and healthier than current beneficiaries. These individuals are more likely to be smokers and heavy drinkers. Overall, the expansion could bring in a new, healthier group with different demographic characteristics.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 9, 2013

Severe asthma patients less responsive to treatment

People with severe asthma are less likely to respond to corticosteroid treatment, even when taking high doses. Researchers found that 55% of adults with severe asthma showed greater airway obstruction despite regular oral corticosteroids. The study aims to develop personalized medicine for individual patients with asthma.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 9, 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.

Hypertensive smoking women have an exceptionally high risk of a fatal brain bleeding

A Finnish population-based study found that hypertensive smoking women have an exceptionally high risk of a fatal brain bleeding, with a rate 20 times higher than never-smoking men. The study identified new risk factors for Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (SAH), including previous myocardial infarction and elevated cholesterol levels in men.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 9, 2013

Scientists discover how to map cell-signaling molecules to their targets

A team of University of Montreal and McGill researchers has developed a new method to link signaling molecules to target regulators of cell division. This method could provide valuable insights into the processes underlying cell division and potentially reveal new targets for cancer treatment.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

September/October 2013 Annals of Family Medicine Tip Sheet

A study found that one-third of Walgreens vaccinations are administered during off-clinic hours, particularly among younger, healthy adults. This shift in vaccination access could measurably increase immunization rates in the US. Additionally, a new study suggests that eligible Medicaid beneficiaries under the Patient Protection and Af...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 9, 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.

Bomb-detecting lasers could improve security checkpoints

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a bomb-detecting laser that can identify micro traces of explosive chemicals on clothing and luggage. The low-energy laser uses two pulses to detect chemical frequencies, providing excellent sensitivity and robust performance on virtually all surfaces.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 9, 2013

Therapy slows onset and progression of Lou Gehrig's disease, study finds

A new therapy has shown promising results in slowing the onset and progression of Lou Gehrig's disease, increasing survival rates by up to 39% in animal models. The treatment targets the SOD1 gene, which is mutated in some cases of familial ALS, and was administered via non-invasive delivery.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateSep 9, 2013

New funding for artificial-intelligence research

The Center for Brains, Minds and Machines (CBMM) will focus on understanding human intelligence from multiple perspectives. The center aims to develop a computational understanding of intelligence through research in vision, language, motor skills, neurobiology, electrical engineering, and more.

SourceHarvard University·DateSep 9, 2013