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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 103


Page 103 of 376

The accelerator of molecular motors

Researchers identify Pex22p module as key component in peroxisomal Ub machinery, boosting enzyme import and degradation of pollutants. This discovery sheds light on peroxisomal disorders like Zellweger syndrome and highlights the importance of reevaluating familiar proteins.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 22, 2014

Higher risk of heart disease for South Asians in Canada

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that South Asians in Canada have a higher prevalence of heart disease, with rates of death from coronary artery disease being 42% for men and 29% for women. The study also highlighted the need for standardized surveillance systems to monitor non-communicable diseases a...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 22, 2014

WEGA fusion experiment passed on to the USA

The WEGA fusion device is being transferred to the University of Illinois for further research and development. The device will be re-assembled as HIDRA and used for plasma physics and fusion research.

SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik (IPP)·DateSep 22, 2014

Online ratings influence parents' choices of physicians for their children

A U-M study found that almost three-quarters of parents are aware of online rating sites and over a quarter use them to choose healthcare providers for their children. The researchers also discovered that positive online ratings strongly influenced the likelihood of selecting a child's physician, while negative reviews had little impact.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Reversing the effects of pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a microRNA mimic, miR-29, that can reverse the effects of pulmonary fibrosis in mouse models. The treatment uses intravenous delivery and has shown sustained effects on lung tissue. Further studies are needed to evaluate its therapeutic potential for human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

SourceYale University·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateSep 22, 2014

Food affected by Fukushima disaster harms animals, even at low-levels of radiation

A recent study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that food affected by the Fukushima nuclear disaster harms animals, even at low levels of radiation. Researchers fed pale blue grass butterflies leaves collected from areas varying distance from the disaster site and investigated the effects on the next generation. The study sh...

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateSep 22, 2014

New RFID technology helps robots find household objects

Researchers developed a new search algorithm that enables robots to find and navigate to tagged household objects using ultra-high frequency radio-frequency identification (UHF RFID) tags. The system allows the robot to play a 'hot-or-cold?' game to determine its direction, reducing complexity and increasing accuracy.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateSep 22, 2014

Looking ahead: Whole eye transplant under development

Researchers at University of California, San Diego aim to develop a whole eye transplant technique that can reconnect the eye's neuronal wiring to the brain. The goal is to treat patients with vision restoration due to structural or functional problems in the eye.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 22, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Some concussion education more useful than others, parents say

According to a new University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health, the format of concussion education is linked to parents' confidence about managing their child's injury. Parents who watched videos or presentations rated them as very useful, while those who only signed waiver forms did not.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateSep 22, 2014

NASA sees Tropical Depression Polo winding down

Tropical Depression Polo weakened significantly, with maximum sustained winds decreasing to near 35 mph, and is expected to dissipate by September 26. Swells generated by the storm will subside late on September 22, affecting the southern Baja California peninsula.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 2014

Wildfires in Khabarovsk Krai, Russia

In the summer of 2014, wildfires burned an area three times larger than usual in Khabarovsk Krai, Russia, with 12,600 forest fires spanning 1.8 million hectares

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 2014

The fine line between breast cancer and normal tissues

Researchers developed a tool that uses mass spectrometry imaging to identify fatty acid substances in breast tissue, distinguishing between cancerous and normal tissue. The study found several fatty acids were more abundant in breast cancer tissue compared to normal tissue.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

Involving female offenders in release planning can increase reintegration success

A new study by Dr. Flora Matheson found that women who are involved in their discharge planning have a higher chance of successfully reintegrating into society. The study highlights the importance of stable and trusting relationships with parole officers and access to positive social support networks.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Offender Rehabilitation·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

NASA's TRMM satellite tallies Hurricane Odile's heavy rainfall

Hurricane Odile brought extreme rainfall to Mexico's Baja California peninsula and southwestern United States, with estimated totals reaching almost three feet. The TRMM satellite analyzed real-time data to track the storm's impact, revealing highest rainfall totals of over 160 mm in northwestern Texas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 2014

Study: Antifreeze proteins in Antarctic fishes prevent freezing ... and melting

Researchers discovered that antifreeze proteins found in Antarctic fish also prevent internal ice crystals from melting, leading to potential health issues. The study found that these protein-bound ice crystals resist melting even when temperatures warm, causing superheating.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Engineers show light can play seesaw at the nanoscale

University of Minnesota researchers have created a nanoscale device capable of capturing and transporting fundamental particles of light called photons. The discovery could lead to the development of faster and more energy-efficient optical devices.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 22, 2014

Blood test may help determine who is at risk for psychosis

Researchers at University of North Carolina Health Care developed a blood test that identifies individuals at high risk for developing psychosis. The test measures immune and hormonal system imbalances, as well as oxidative stress, and shows promise in predicting the development of severe mental disorders like schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateSep 22, 2014

New rules for anticancer vaccines

Researchers have identified a better measure of predicting cancer neoepitopes, which are specific protein sequences recognized by immune cells. This new approach has the potential to improve current methods for generating anticancer vaccines, increasing their effectiveness in combating cancer.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 22, 2014

Hold on, tiger mom

A study published in the Journal of Family Issues found that less supportive and punitive Chinese parenting techniques can lead to negative outcomes in children, including low self-esteem and school adjustment difficulties. The research contradicts the idea that traditional 'Chinese' upbringing is superior and highlights the importance...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Can tapioca replace corn as the main source for starch sweeteners?

Researchers describe cassava, also known as tapioca, as an ideal alternative to corn for starch sweeteners due to its high yields and accessibility. The article highlights the potential of converting tapioca starch into sugars using various enzymes and processing steps.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalIndustrial Biotechnology·DateSep 22, 2014

Pitt engineers receive grants to enhance additive manufacturing

Engineers at the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering are proposing enhanced modeling and simulation technology and new qualification standards for additive manufacturing. The research aims to improve quality and product integrity while reducing manufacturing time and costs.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 22, 2014

Hardwiring AHA guidelines into order system reduced telemetry orders

The study found that hardwiring AHA guidelines into an electronic ordering system resulted in a significant reduction of telemetry orders, with a 70% decrease in average weekly orders and a 57.8-hour reduction in telemetry duration. The average daily cost for non-ICU cardiac telemetry also decreased substantially.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 22, 2014

Research study analyzes the best exercise for obese youths

A new research study published in JAMA Pediatrics analyzed the effects of different exercise programs on obese youths. The study found that combining aerobic exercise with resistance training resulted in significant weight loss and reduced body fat compared to other exercise programs or diet-only control groups.

SourceUniversity of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Lego-like modular components make building 3-D 'labs-on-a-chip' a snap

Researchers developed modular components that can be snapped together to build 3-D microfluidic systems, simplifying the construction process and reducing costs. The components are inspired by electronics industry technology and use 3D printing to create standardized modules with various functions.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

University of Chicago neuroscientists challenge long-held understanding of the sense of touch

Researchers challenged the long-held principle that separate groups of nerves and receptors are responsible for distinct components of touch. They found that all types of afferents contribute to the overall sensation, regardless of specific textures or shapes. This new understanding has far-reaching implications for the study of somato...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateSep 22, 2014

University of Utah engineers unlock potential for faster computing

Researchers have discovered a way to create a metal layer on silicon that can lead to faster computing without overheating. The new topological insulator could enable the development of quantum computers and spintronic devices that are billions of times faster than conventional computers.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

Arctic sea ice helps remove CO2 from the atmosphere

Researchers found that Arctic sea ice helps remove large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere through chemical processes. The discovery suggests that every winter, newly formed sea ice forms flower-like structures called frost flowers, which hold high concentrations of calcium carbonate and can impact the potential CO2 uptake in the Arctic.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalPolar Biology·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Mothers of children with autism less likely to have taken iron supplements

A study by researchers at the UC Davis MIND Institute found that mothers of children with autism are less likely to report taking iron supplements before and during pregnancy. The risk is five-fold greater in children whose mothers had low supplemental iron and other risk factors for delivering a child with ASD.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateSep 22, 2014

Answer to restoring lost island biodiversity found in fossils

Researchers use fossils to reconstruct ancient ecosystems on the Bahamian island of Abaco, where megafauna like crocodiles and tortoises once flourished. The study's findings suggest that reptiles played a dominant role in these ecosystems, providing vital clues for conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Herpetology·DateSep 22, 2014

New chip promising for tumor-targeting research

Researchers developed a T-MOC device to study tumor-microenvironment interactions, enabling the testing of nanoparticles and drugs targeting cancer. The chip can mimic human tumors, providing insights into targeted delivery methods.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Where is that spacecraft?

The Gauss von Mises (GVM) distribution offers improved predictive capabilities for tracking infrequently-observed space objects. This new approach allows for more accurate prediction of satellite and debris locations, enabling better resource allocation and detection of potential collisions.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM/ASA Journal on Uncertainty Quantification·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Firelight talk of the Kalahari Bushmen

A University of Utah study suggests that stories told over firelight helped human culture and thought evolve by reinforcing social traditions and promoting harmony. Researchers analyzed scores of daytime and firelight conversations among !Kung Bushmen, finding that nighttime discussions involved more storytelling and imaginative thought.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

Job loss fears may boost first-time asthma risk

Research found that workers experiencing high levels of job insecurity were more likely to develop asthma. The study, based on a German survey, indicates a potential link between psychological stress and new onset asthma.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateSep 22, 2014

Compound from hops aids cognitive function in young animals

A new study published by Oregon State University researchers found that a compound called xanthohumol, found in hops and beer, enhances cognitive flexibility in young mice. However, it had no effect on older mice or their learning and cognitive performance.

SourceOregon State University·DateSep 22, 2014

Scientists seen as competent but not trusted by Americans

A new review published in PNAS reveals that Americans view scientists as competent, but not entirely trusted. To gain public trust, scientists should focus on conveying warm intentions and expertise, rather than persuasive agendas. The study's findings highlight the importance of warmth and trustworthiness in scientific communication.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Dartmouth's new ZEBRA bracelet strengthens computer security

Researchers at Dartmouth College have developed a new approach to computer security using a wearable device called ZEBRA, which authenticates users continuously and automatically logs them out when they leave. The technology has shown high accuracy rates in verifying the correct user and identifying adversaries.

SourceDartmouth College·DateSep 22, 2014

Nurse survey shows longer working hours impact on quality of care

A survey of over 30,000 European nurses found that extended shifts and overtime lead to lower standards of care, safety, and missed necessary patient care. Nurses working long shifts are 30% more likely to report poor quality of care compared to those working traditional eight-hour shifts.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalMedical Care·DateSep 22, 2014

Variability keeps the body in balance

The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, uses control theory to analyze heart rate data from athletes and found that a healthy heart must maintain certain patterns of variability during exercise to keep the body in balance. This variability is essential for maintaining homeostasis and preventing fati...

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Graphene imperfections key to creating hypersensitive 'electronic nose'

Researchers discovered a way to boost sensitivity of graphene-based sensors by exploiting the unique electronic properties of grain boundaries. By analyzing these imperfections, scientists created an 'electronic nose' that can detect single gas molecules, revolutionizing chemical sensing applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 2014

2014 Arctic sea ice minimum sixth lowest on record

Arctic sea ice coverage reached its annual minimum of 1.94 million square miles in September 2014, the sixth lowest recorded since 1978. The summer started cool and lacked intense storms or persistent winds, contributing to the low extent.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 2014

Few kids receive psychotherapy along with medication for ADHD, study finds

A new RAND Corporation study found that only about one quarter of commercially-insured children treated for ADHD also receive psychotherapy, with significant variation in receipt of talk therapy across counties. The study highlights the need for improved access to behavioral therapy for children with ADHD.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

Brief intervention may prevent increased risk of depression in teens

A low-cost intervention educating teens about the malleability of personality traits may prevent increases in depressive symptoms. The study found that students who learned about personality change showed no increase in depressive symptoms, even if bullied.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateSep 22, 2014

King Fire rages on in Eldorado National Forest

The King Fire is an arson-caused fire that began on Sept. 13, 2014, fueled by hot, dry conditions, large amounts of fuel, and winds. It has grown to 82,018 acres in size and is currently 17% contained, prompting evacuations of over 2,800 people

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 2014

Genetic switch regulates a plant's internal clock based on temperature

Researchers at USC isolated a transcription factor, FBH1, that modulates circadian rhythms based on temperature, allowing plants to adapt to changing environments. This discovery could lead to heartier plants better equipped to deal with climate change.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

Safely on the road in electric cars

The Visio.M consortium presents a safety package for compact electric vehicles, providing a safe compartment and passenger protection through advanced materials and sensor systems. The integrated safety concept uses radar and camera sensors to recognize critical situations and activate protective measures.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateSep 22, 2014

Project launched to study evolutionary history of fungi

A four-year National Science Foundation-funded project aims to resolve the evolutionary relationships of zygomycetes through genome sequencing, fossil analysis, and bioimaging. The project will also develop educational resources highlighting the importance of this poorly known group of fungi.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateSep 22, 2014
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.

UTHealth researchers study impact of smoking ban in homeless shelter

A partial smoking ban at a homeless shelter led to reduced expired carbon monoxide levels, indicating less smoking and/or secondhand smoke exposure. Residents supported the policy change, with most smokers believing it would improve resident health.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateSep 22, 2014