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Science News Archive September 2013 - Page 29


Page 29 of 32

Only known hibernating primate has unique sleep patterns

Researchers found that dwarf lemurs experience REM sleep at high temperatures, while ground squirrels do not, suggesting a link between temperature and metabolism. The study confirms that hibernation is not a state of dormancy but rather a unique form of sleep.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2013

Youthful stem cells from bone can heal the heart, Temple scientists report

Researchers found that cortical bone-derived stem cells (CBSCs) triggered the growth of new blood vessels and matured into heart muscle cells, improving survival and heart function in mice. The study challenges the general assumption that cardiac stem cells are the most capable of repairing damaged heart tissue.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalCirculation Research·DateSep 4, 2013

First study to investigate the human genome in multiple sclerosis

Researchers aim to understand factors that make immune cells target the spinal cord and brain, leading to multiple sclerosis (MS). The study will determine the function of specific T cells, how they are generated, and how they can be regulated in model systems of MS and humans.

SourceBenaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason·DateSep 4, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Young adults on the autism spectrum face tough prospects for jobs and independent living

Two studies found that young adults on the autism spectrum have worse employment outcomes, including lower pay rates, and are less likely to live independently after high school. Despite this, half of young adults with ASDs did become employed, suggesting potential for improvement with effective preparation and support.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateSep 4, 2013

Alzheimer's missing link found

Researchers at Yale University have identified a protein that serves as the missing link in the chain of events leading to Alzheimer's disease. Blocking this protein with an existing drug has been shown to restore memory and synaptic density in mouse models of the disease. The findings offer strong hope for developing new treatments.

SourceYale University·JournalNeuron·DateSep 4, 2013

Chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections linked to pregnancy complications

Researchers found that women infected with chlamydia or gonorrhoea before pregnancy had a heightened risk of stillbirth and premature birth. Despite controlling for other factors, the study suggests that these infections may be an important predictor of adverse obstetric outcomes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateSep 4, 2013

Megabladder mouse model may help predict severity of pediatric kidney damage

Researchers tracked changes in gene expression to predict kidney damage severity in children with urinary tract obstruction. The study identified specific genes associated with the degree of obstruction, which could help identify children at risk of chronic kidney disease and permanent organ damage.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 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.

TB and Parkinson's disease linked by unique protein

Researchers have discovered that the protein Parkin plays a key role in fighting tuberculosis, triggering the destruction of bacteria by immune cells. This finding suggests that strategies already being explored to combat Parkinson's disease may also be effective against tuberculosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateSep 4, 2013

Relationship of kidney function estimates to risk improves by measuring cystatin C in the blood

The use of blood levels of cystatin C strengthens the association between kidney function and risks of death and end-stage renal disease. Cystatin C allows for better staging and risk classification of chronic kidney disease, potentially leading to targeted management and improved patient outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 4, 2013

PET predicts outcomes for patients with cervical spinal cord compression

Researchers used PET scans to identify hypermetabolism in the spine, indicating a potentially reversible phase of degenerative cervical myelopathy. Patients with this marker showed significant improvement after decompressive surgery, while those without exhibited no change.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 4, 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.

New groundbreaking research may expose new aspects of the universe

Researchers have developed a new method to clean theories and models of particle physics from uncertainties, making it easier to assess their validity. The approach could lead to the discovery of new physics, which may explain long-standing problems such as dark matter and gravity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 4, 2013

Chemotherapy helps elderly patients with small cell lung cancer

A recent retrospective study found that chemotherapy improves median survival among elderly patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) by more than 6 months. The study analyzed data from 10,428 patients aged 65 and older who received chemotherapy between 1992 and 2001.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateSep 4, 2013

Bizarre alignment of planetary nebulae

A team of astronomers found that butterfly-shaped planetary nebulae are mysteriously aligned in the sky, with their long axes aligned along the plane of our galaxy. This surprising result hints at a more mysterious factor influencing the formation of these objects, possibly due to strong magnetic fields as the bulge formed.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 4, 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.

IT monitoring effective in deterring restaurant fraud

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis finds that IT monitoring can significantly reduce employee theft and fraud in the restaurant industry, resulting in a 7% increase in revenue per restaurant. The study used monitoring software to track sales data of employees and found a 22% drop in theft after implementation.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalSocial Science Research·DateSep 3, 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.

Why parenting can never have a rule book

A new review of dozens of studies involving twins found that genetics significantly affect parenting behavior. Children's genetically-influenced characteristics influence how they are parented, with 23% of differences in parenting attributed to a child's genotype.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Review·DateSep 3, 2013

The 'weakest link' in the aging proteome

A study published in Cell identifies a subset of proteins in the brain that persist for longer than a year, potentially revealing the molecular basis of aging. These long-lived proteins are thought to be the 'weakest link' in the aging proteome and may play a role in cellular aging.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateSep 3, 2013

Comparison of antibody levels for 4 different immunization schedules for PCVs

The study found that different PCV immunization schedules resulted in similar antibody levels in infants, with some schedules being superior for specific serotypes. The researchers conclude that optimal timing of the primary series is crucial to maintain optimal antibody levels during the period between the primary series and the boost...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 3, 2013

Hot Line IV: Late-breaking trials on heart failure and acute coronary syndrome

A recent study by the European Society of Cardiology found that aliskiren did not improve coronary artery disease progression in patients with prehypertension. However, exploratory findings suggested potential benefits for patients with pre-existing coronary artery disease and blood pressure levels treated to goal.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalJAMA·DateSep 3, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Sept. 3, 2013

Researchers have identified a potential new target for breast cancer treatment: ERBB3, an oncogene that promotes tumor growth. The study also found peritoneal dialysis to be effective in reducing brain damage after stroke by lowering glutamate levels.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 3, 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.

Death by asexuality: IU biologists uncover new path for mutations to arise

Researchers at Indiana University found that asexual lineages are more susceptible to extinction due to fast-paced gene conversion processes. This process exposes pre-existing deleterious recessive mutations, contributing to the decline of asexual populations.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2013

Nursing students lack effective role models for infection prevention: Study

A study of nursing students in the UK found that 100% observed lapses in infection prevention and control practices during clinical placements. The most frequently observed events were hand hygiene violations, including failure to clean hands between patients and wearing nail polish or extensions.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateSep 3, 2013

Ease of access improves fruit and vegetable consumption

A new study from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center shows that community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs can increase fresh fruit and vegetable access in under-resourced communities. The program provided participants with a weekly box of produce and educational sessions, resulting in increased consumption and satisfaction.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateSep 3, 2013

New evidence to aid search for charge 'stripes' in superconductors

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory identified a signature to look for in superconductors, suggesting that fluctuating charge stripes may play a role. The researchers used neutrons to analyze the material's electronic structure and found that the displacements from average structure persisted with increasing temperature.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 3, 2013

Sleep boosts production of brain support cells

An animal study shows that sleep increases the reproduction of oligodendrocytes, which form myelin in the brain and spinal cord, doubling their numbers during rapid eye movement sleep. This could lead to new insights into the role of sleep in brain repair and growth.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateSep 3, 2013
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.

Research confirms Mediterranean diet is good for the mind

A systematic review of 12 studies confirms a positive impact on cognitive function associated with higher adherence to a Mediterranean diet. However, results for mild cognitive impairment are inconsistent, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEpidemiology·DateSep 3, 2013

BIDMC awarded NIH grant to study new treatment for spinal cord injuries

Researchers at BIDMC are investigating a new noninvasive therapy called Spinal Associative Stimulation (SAS) that combines TMS and peripheral nerve stimulation to activate weakened muscles in patients with spinal cord injuries. SAS aims to increase voluntary activation of residual undamaged spinal-cord fibers, promoting clinical recovery.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·DateSep 3, 2013

Scientists edge closer towards first pancreatitis treatment

Researchers at Cardiff University have made a breakthrough in treating acute pancreatitis by reducing calcium flow into pancreatic cells, stopping the root cause of the disease. The study shows promise for developing an effective treatment for this often fatal disease.

SourceCardiff University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 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.

Researchers propose a new system for quantum simulation

The proposed system combines ultracold trapped ions and fermionic atoms to emulate solid state physics, including the Peierls transition and phonon-mediated interactions. This hybrid system may simulate complex quantum systems beyond current computing power.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 3, 2013

10 outstanding ASTRO members named fellows

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has selected 10 outstanding members to receive the Fellow of ASTRO designation. These distinguished individuals have made substantial contributions to the field of radiation oncology through research, education, patient care, and leadership.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 3, 2013

Birds choose sweet-smelling mates

A Michigan State University study demonstrates that birds communicate via scents and that odor reliably predicts reproductive success. Researchers found that males with a 'male-like' smell and females with a 'female-like' smell had higher genetic reproductive success, influencing mate selection.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateSep 3, 2013

An easier way to control genes

Researchers developed a new method to control genes by targeting transcription, allowing for positive and negative regulation with the same protein. The technique has the potential to enable complex synthetic biology circuits and applications such as disease detection and drug production.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateSep 3, 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.

Uncontrolled hypertension is common, but untreated, worldwide

A global study has found that many patients don't know they have hypertension and, even if they do, too few are receiving adequate drug therapy for their hypertension. The study found 46.5% of those with hypertension were aware of the diagnosis, while blood pressure was controlled among 32.5% of those being treated.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJAMA·DateSep 3, 2013

Friends' Facebook, Myspace photos affect risky behavior among teens

A new study from the University of Southern California examines how teenagers' online social networking sites influence their smoking and alcohol use. The researchers found that exposure to friends' online pictures of partying or drinking was significantly associated with both smoking and alcohol use.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateSep 3, 2013
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.

Fires in Bolivia Aug. 31, 2013

Fires burned extensively across Bolivia in late August, fueled by agricultural blazes. The MODIS satellite captured high-resolution images of the infernos, showing thick smoke plumes blocking visibility.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 3, 2013

Discovery helps to unlock brain's speech-learning mechanism

Researchers discovered a population of neurons in juvenile songbirds that enable the birds to recognize and learn vocal sounds. This finding could provide valuable insights into the neural mechanisms underlying human infant language acquisition.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateSep 3, 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.

Brain wiring quiets the voice inside your head

Researchers developed a diagram of the brain circuitry enabling interplay between motor system and auditory system. This discovery could provide insight into schizophrenia and mood disorders, where individuals hear voices others do not.

SourceDuke University·DateSep 3, 2013

Tattoos reduce chances of getting a job, new research says

Employers view visible tattoos as a stigma, perceiving them as making employees look dirty or unsavory. However, certain innocuous symbols like flowers or butterflies are seen as acceptable. The stigma surrounding tattoos is expected to decrease over time as younger generations increasingly get tattoos.

SourceSAGE·DateSep 3, 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.

Single combination pill provides benefit to patients with or at risk of CVD

A randomized trial found that a fixed-dose combination medication for blood pressure, cholesterol, and platelet control resulted in significantly improved medication adherence after 15 months. The study also showed modest but significant improvements in systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 3, 2013

Size really does not matter when it comes to high blood pressure

Researchers at University of Bristol found that removing the carotid body, a small nodule on each carotid artery, reduces blood pressure in rodents with high blood pressure. The discovery has potential to revolutionize treatment for millions suffering from the condition.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 3, 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.