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Science News Archive September 2013 - Page 8


Page 8 of 32
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genetic study pushes back timeline for first significant human population expansion

A recent genetic study challenges the long-held assumption that the Neolithic age marked the beginning of a global population explosion. Researchers found evidence of significant human population expansion dating back to the Paleolithic era, around 60,000-80,000 years ago.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 24, 2013

Some childhood cancer survivors may face subsequent renal problems

Adult childhood cancer survivors who underwent nephrotoxic therapies or kidney surgery had worse kidney function that did not recover over time. The study found a significant decline in glomerular function after treatment and a higher risk of premature chronic renal failure.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateSep 24, 2013

Penn Medicine researchers harness the immune system to fight pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed a novel immunotherapy approach that demonstrates substantial tumor regression in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. The treatment combines gemcitabine with an agonist CD40 antibody and uses real-time FDG/PET-CT imaging to monitor tumor response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 24, 2013

Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the kidney

Researchers found that genetic loss of a proton pump in beta-intercalated cells leads to increased prostaglandin E2 production, promoting hypokalemia and hypercalcemia. Pharmacologic inactivation also results in dRTA-like symptom development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 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.

Do anaesthetics trigger stress?

Researchers evaluated nine commonly used anaesthetics and found that several cause stress responses in zebrafish. Etomidate was deemed the most suitable for future routine use, improving the welfare standards of millions of fish used in scientific research worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Sept. 24, 2013

Researchers develop mouse models of hereditary spastic paraplegia and distal renal tubular acidosis to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying these diseases. The studies reveal key roles for REEP1 in ER shaping and β-intercalated cells in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 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.

A neurological basis for the lack of empathy in psychopaths

A neuroimaging study found that individuals with psychopathy fail to activate brain areas associated with empathy and concern for others when imagining others in pain. This atypical pattern of activation suggests that psychopaths may not care for others, but could be triggered into emotional response through cognitive-behavior therapies.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateSep 24, 2013

Georgia State researcher gets $499,209 NSF grant to advance sociogenomics

The Sociogenomics Initiative RCN will bring together researchers from prominent US and Canadian universities to study the genomic mechanisms underlying social behavior. The network aims to establish a comprehensive understanding of social behavior in molecular terms through large-scale collaboration and multidisciplinary approaches.

SourceGeorgia State University·DateSep 24, 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.

Stanford scientists publish theory, formula to improve 'plastic' semiconductors

Researchers at Stanford University have created a theoretical framework to understand and predict the conductive properties of polymeric semiconductors. Their model reveals that the entangled structure of polymers, which allows them to bend, also impedes their ability to conduct electricity.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2013

Cancer-killing cells controlled by epigenetic process, new study shows

Cancer-killing natural killer (NK) cells are controlled by the epigenetic process involving enzyme MYSM1, which regulates gene expression and cell maturation. The study paves the way for developing more effective immunotherapies against cancer.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 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.

Appropriate vaccinations schedules for feline patients outlined

The updated guidelines offer recommendations for vaccination of household pet cats, shelter house cats, and cats in breeding catteries based on risk assessment. The new protocols prioritize comprehensive physical examinations and consultation to determine each cat's specific vaccination requirements.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateSep 23, 2013

Movies that push our cognitive limits

Researchers found that hyperlink films follow conventional social patterns, with an average of 31.4 characters important for plot development, similar to the size of an affinity group in contemporary society. This challenges the idea that these films can create a more complex and interconnected world.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Nature·DateSep 23, 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.

Protein explains increased asthma severity in children exposed to diesel exhaust from traffic

A new study published by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found a strong link between exposure to diesel exhaust and increased asthma severity in children. The research suggests that neutralizing the protein IL-17A could be a useful potential therapeutic strategy to counteract the effects of traffic-related air pollution.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 23, 2013

Some parts of memory still developing deep into childhood

Research suggests that young children may struggle to remember overlapping elements of events, such as time and place, until later childhood. This has significant implications for learning in school and the reliability of testimony in court cases.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 23, 2013

First steps towards achieving better and cheaper biodiesel

The SUPREN research group has developed a method to produce acetals from glycerol, which improves the properties of biodiesel. The new process shows higher efficiency and lower costs compared to traditional methods, making it a promising solution for reducing environmental impact.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateSep 23, 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.

Bacteria don't always work 'just in time'

Researchers found that bacteria deviate from the 'just in time' principle for protein production, adapting dynamically to environmental conditions. They use strategies to optimize protein production, which can be useful in fighting pathogens.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 23, 2013

Non-precious metal catalysts outperforming Pt-based one by UNIST research team

A new family of non-precious metal catalysts developed by the UNIST research team exhibits better performance than platinum in oxygen-reduction reaction, offering a solution for widespread commercialization of fuel cell technology. The catalysts show high electrocatalytic activity and superior long-term durability.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 23, 2013

Infrared NASA image shows strength in Typhoon Pabuk's eastern side

Typhoon Pabuk strengthened as it moved north through the northwestern Pacific Ocean, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing an infrared image that showed powerful thunderstorms east of its center. The storm was expected to turn northeast and bring rain and gusty winds to eastern Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 23, 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.

Sibling bullying: What's the big deal?

Seventy-five percent of participants reported being bullied by a sibling, and 85% reported bullying a sibling. Sibling bullying is often viewed as normative, with victims and perpetrators evaluating instances differently.

SourceClemson University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateSep 23, 2013

Spinning CDs to clean sewage water

Researchers have developed a wastewater treatment device that uses spinning CDs coated with zinc oxide nanorods to break down organic pollutants in sewage. The device can treat contaminated water at an impressive rate of 150 mL per minute, making it a promising solution for small-scale water purification.

SourceOptica·DateSep 23, 2013
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

CDC, Mass. General study reveals that preventing malaria in travelers to West Africa reduces health costs

A CDC and Massachusetts General Hospital study finds that pretravel consultations and preventive medications can save money for both payers and most travelers. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 travelers to West Africa and found that the costs associated with contracting malaria outweighed the costs of preventive care.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 23, 2013

Why humans are musical

According to Swedish Research Council study, humans have musical talent due to synchronized group movement, which enhances sound perception in nature. This behavior has survival value, producing dopamine, leading to rhythmic movements and eventually music.

SourceSwedish Research Council·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateSep 23, 2013

Smartphones and tablets could provide universal access to medical monitoring

Mobile devices could increase access to pulse oximetry, a crucial tool for monitoring blood oxygen levels, by providing an affordable and effective alternative to traditional equipment. This technology has the potential to improve patient outcomes, particularly in resource-poor settings where timely intervention can be life-saving.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAnesthesia & Analgesia·DateSep 23, 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.

Eagle vs. deer

Researchers from Wildlife Conservation Society and Zoological Society of London capture images of golden eagle attacking a young sika deer on camera trap. The event, which occurred six years ago, is extremely rare and has no impact on deer populations.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalJournal of Raptor Research·DateSep 23, 2013

New password in a heartbeat

Researchers at Rice University have developed a secure system to protect wireless implantable medical devices from unauthorized access. The technology uses the patient's unique heartbeat as a password, which can only be accessed through touch with a programmer device. This provides a secure way to monitor patients and prevent potential...

SourceRice University·DateSep 23, 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.

It takes a(n academic) village to determine an enzyme's function

A multidisciplinary team has identified the function of an enzyme and its biochemical pathway in a marine bacterium, using computational methods combined with laboratory techniques. This breakthrough sheds light on protein-coding genes and offers insights into the role of orthologous enzymes in similar pathways.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 2013

Putting the spring back in broken hearts

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed spring-like fibers to engineer cardiac tissue that can pump more like the real thing. The new fibers show improved elasticity and contraction force compared to straight fibers, holding promise for repairing damaged heart tissue.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalBiomaterials·DateSep 23, 2013

NASA sees deadly typhoon usagi hit southern China

Typhoon Usagi made landfall in Guangdong Province on September 22 with maximum sustained winds near 110 mph, displacing over 310,000 residents and causing widespread destruction. Heavy rainfall rates reached up to 6.7 inches per hour along China's coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 23, 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.

First look at complete sorghum genome may usher in new uses for food and fuel

A complete genomic analysis of sorghum reveals its potential for alternative uses beyond grain production. Researchers hope to apply the findings to other feedstocks like miscanthus and sugarcane, while improving drought-resistant lines for food and fuel applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGenome Biology·DateSep 23, 2013

Scientists push closer to understanding mystery of deep earthquakes

Researchers use X-ray facility to replicate high-pressure conditions, finding fractures nucleate at the onset of olivine-to-spinel transition. This discovery confirms earlier experimental work and provides strongest evidence yet that phase transformations trigger deep earthquakes.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateSep 23, 2013

Mayo Clinic launches biobank in Arizona, expanding diversity research

The Sangre por Salud Biobank is a collaboration among Mayo Clinic, Mountain Park Health Center, and Arizona State University to support studies in obesity, metabolism and diabetes in the Latino population. The biobank aims to enroll 2,000 participants over four years, with a special emphasis on cardiometabolic risk and obesity.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateSep 23, 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.

Addiction: Can you ever really completely leave it behind?

A new study found that even long-term abstinence from cocaine does not result in a complete normalization of brain circuitry. Former cocaine users showed differences in reward processing and impulsivity compared to healthy controls, indicating pre-existing risk factors for addiction.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 23, 2013

Disaster relief donations track number of people killed, not number of survivors

Researchers found that donors prioritize fatalities over those affected when deciding how much to donate. However, a simple change in terminology can reverse this bias, prioritizing the number of homeless individuals. By diverting attention from fatalities to survivors, aid can be allocated more effectively.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 23, 2013

Researchers probe the optical properties of a novel kind of magnetism

A team of researchers has carried out the first detailed measurements of a unique kind of magnetism found in herbertsmithite. The study reveals a signature in the material's optical conductivity that supports theoretical predictions about the influence of magnetism on electrons.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 23, 2013