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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 104


Page 104 of 376

Plant variants point the way to improved biofuel production

Researchers have identified variant straw plants with highly digestible cell walls, paving the way for cost-effective and sustainable biofuels. These discoveries could help ease pressure on global food security and reduce carbon emissions, making them a promising solution to address climate change.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·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.

We drink more alcohol on gym days

A Northwestern Medicine study found that people drink more alcohol on days when they exercise, particularly Thursdays to Sundays. The study used smartphone technology to record daily physical activity and alcohol use, and found uniform results across age groups.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateSep 22, 2014

Singapore researchers discover a gene that increases incidence of AML

A novel study by Singapore researchers found that an increase in the Leo1 gene affects genes directly implicated in acute myelogenous leukaemia (AML), increasing cancer incidence. Inhibition of Leo1 and downstream signalling pathways offer a targeted treatment approach.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 22, 2014

Influenza A potentiates pneumococcal co-infection: New details emerge

Research shows that influenza A potentiates pneumococcal co-infection by enhancing the bacterium's ability to colonize the nasopharynx and infect the middle ear. This interaction leads to increased inflammatory responses, allowing pneumococci to flourish in the host environment.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateSep 22, 2014

New guidelines issued for managing peri- and postoperative atrial fibrillation

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery has released new evidence-based guidelines for preventing and treating perioperative and postoperative atrial fibrillation. The guidelines aim to reduce the incidence of POAF, which is associated with longer hospital stays, increased morbidity, and mortality.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·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.

Discount generic drug programs grow over time

The use of generic discount drug programs (GDDPs) has grown significantly since their introduction in 2006, with a notable increase in racial/ethnic minorities. GDDPs can help reduce medication costs and improve access to drug therapy for vulnerable populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 22, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Actions on climate change bring better health, study says

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that reducing fossil fuel consumption can lead to cleaner air, increased physical fitness, and improved public health. The analysis highlights opportunities for co-benefits between climate change mitigation and human health.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJAMA·DateSep 22, 2014

Sandia magnetized fusion technique produces significant results

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have produced a trillion fusion neutrons using the MagLIF technique, which uses magnetic fields and a laser to preheat hydrogen fuel. The achievement demonstrates the viability of this novel approach for achieving break-even fusion.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 22, 2014

Classroom intervention helps shy kids learn

A NYU study found that a classroom intervention program helps shy children improve their math and critical thinking skills, with effects substantially greater for shy kids compared to control group peers. The INSIGHTS program teaches teachers to recognize individual temperaments and support differences.

SourceNew York University·JournalSchool Psychology Review·DateSep 22, 2014
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Healthy lifestyle choices may dramatically reduce risk of heart attack in men

A new study finds that healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can prevent four out of five coronary events in men. Researchers followed 20,721 Swedish men for 11 years and found that those with low-risk behaviors had significantly lower risk of heart attack.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 22, 2014

Lack of thyroid hormone blocks hearing development

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered that a genetic form of deafness is caused by the absence of thyroid hormone during development. The study found structural and molecular defects consistent with hypothyroidism or disrupted thyroid hormone action in affected mice.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalMammalian Genome·DateSep 22, 2014

Communication without detours

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered a previously unknown nerve cell shape that allows signals to be transmitted directly from dendrites to axons, bypassing the cell body. This unique structure facilitates faster and more efficient communication between neurons.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeuron·DateSep 22, 2014

Battling superbugs

Researchers use CRISPR genome-editing system to target specific genes conferring antibiotic resistance, resulting in 99% killing of resistant bacteria. CombiGEM technology rapidly identifies genetic combinations that sensitize bacteria to different antibiotics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 21, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Fracking's environmental impacts scrutinized

A new study finds that shale gas has comparable greenhouse gas emissions to conventional natural gas, but is better than renewables in some areas. However, it's worse than coal in others. The researchers recommend strict regulation to mitigate the environmental impacts of shale gas.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalApplied Energy·DateSep 21, 2014

Program predicts placement of chemical tags that control gene activity

Researchers have developed a program that predicts the placement of chemical tags controlling gene activity based on DNA sequences. The analysis identified specific DNA patterns associated with epigenomic modifications, revealing new insights into gene regulation and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 21, 2014

CO2 emissions set to reach new 40 billion ton record high in 2014

The Global Carbon Project predicts a 2.5% rise in CO2 emissions in 2014, reaching a record 40 billion tons, surpassing the 1,200 billion-ton quota for limiting global warming to 2°C. This could lead to climate change catastrophe if not addressed immediately.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEarth System Science Data·DateSep 21, 2014

Magnetic fields make the excitons go 'round

Researchers at MIT and Harvard University have found a way to render excitons immune to defects, improving photovoltaic devices' efficiency. The team used topological protection to create excitons that move only on the surface of materials, governed by applied magnetic fields.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 21, 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.

Cancer cells adapt energy needs to spread illness to other organs

A new study by MD Anderson Cancer Center researchers found that cancer cells traveling to other sites have different energy needs from their original tumor site counterparts. The study suggests that targeting the protein PGC-1  may be a potential therapeutic approach for breast cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateSep 21, 2014

Smallest possible diamonds form ultra-thin nanothreads

Researchers at Penn State University have discovered a method to produce ultra-thin diamond nanothreads with exceptional strength and stiffness. The discovery is based on compressing benzene molecules under high pressure, allowing them to form a strong tetrahedral core linked by hydrogen atoms.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 21, 2014

Dry roasting could help trigger peanut allergy

Researchers at Oxford University found that dry roasting peanuts causes chemical modifications that activate the immune system, leading to an allergic response. This discovery may explain the higher prevalence of peanut allergies in Western countries compared to East Asia.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 21, 2014
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.

Engineered proteins stick like glue -- even in water

Researchers at MIT engineered bacteria to produce hybrid materials combining naturally sticky mussel proteins with bacterial curli fibers, creating stronger underwater adhesives. These adhesives were found to bind strongly to various surfaces and are the strongest biologically inspired protein-based adhesives reported to date.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 21, 2014

From light into matter, nothing seems to stop quantum teleportation

Researchers at Université de Genève have successfully teleported the quantum state of a photon to a crystal over 25 kilometers of optical fibre, surpassing their previous record of 6 kilometers. This experiment demonstrates that quantum state can exist independently of material composition.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 21, 2014

Narrow focus on physical activity could be ruining kids' playtime

A new study from the University of Montreal found that playing has no goal for children, it's an end in itself, promoting emotional and social well-being. The research highlighted four dimensions of play: play as fun, sedentary games, free time, and risk-taking, which contradict public health's focus on physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalQualitative Health Research·DateSep 21, 2014

New 'star' shaped molecule breakthrough

Scientists at The University of Manchester have created a new star-shaped molecule consisting of two molecular triangles entwined about each other three times into a hexagram. This complex structure is the most advanced of its kind ever produced and has potential applications in creating light, flexible, and strong materials.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 21, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Uncovering the forbidden side of molecules

Scientists have successfully observed the 'forbidden' infrared spectrum of a charged molecule for the first time. This achievement enables precise measurements of molecular properties with unprecedented accuracy. The research has significant implications for the development of molecular clocks, quantum technology, and fundamental physics.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 21, 2014

Graphene sensor tracks down cancer biomarkers

A graphene biosensor has been developed to detect cancer risk biomarkers, such as 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), with high sensitivity and speed. The sensor is capable of detecting concentrations as low as 0.1 ng mL-1, outperforming conventional detection methods.

SourceIOP Publishing·Journal2D Materials·DateSep 19, 2014

Milestone in chemical studies of superheavy elements

For the first time, a chemical bond was established between seaborgium and a carbon atom, opening perspectives for detailed investigations of chemical behavior at the end of the periodic table. The study focused on gaseous properties and adsorption to a silicon dioxide surface, comparing with similar compounds of neighboring elements.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScience·DateSep 19, 2014
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.

Patients with advanced, incurable cancer denied palliative care

A new research study reveals that many patients with advanced, incurable cancer do not receive palliative care, despite the presence of designated centres promoting integrated oncology and care. The study found significant gaps in palliative care delivery, highlighting the need for increased budget allocation.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 19, 2014

Even without kids, couples eat frequent family meals

A new study found that couples and adult-only households eat family meals on most days of the week, mirroring patterns seen in families with children. The research analyzed data from over 14,000 Ohio adults, suggesting that frequent family meal consumption may have health benefits for all adults, not just those with minors.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateSep 19, 2014

NASA sees Tropical Storm playing polo with western Mexico

Tropical Storm Polo is moving northwest towards western Mexico with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph and slow weakening expected. The storm is expected to pass south of the Baja California peninsula on Saturday, but a deviation to the north could bring stronger winds to southern Baja California.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 19, 2014

For legume plants, a new route from shoot to root

Researchers discovered a new route for legume plants to communicate with their symbiotic bacteria. The study found that cytokinins, signaling molecules, are transmitted from leaves to roots to control the number of bacterial-holding nodules. This innovation allows legumes to balance energy production and nodule development.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 19, 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.

Monster galaxies gain weight by eating smaller neighbors

Research by Australian scientists reveals massive galaxies are eating smaller ones to gain weight, but their star-formation process is inefficient. Dr. Aaron Robotham explains that gravity allows larger galaxies to pull in smaller neighbors, and the Milky Way will follow suit, eventually merging with Andromeda.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 19, 2014

Dwindling wind may tip predator-prey balance

Research by Brandon Barton suggests that slower natural wind speeds could reduce the number of soybean aphids on plants, allowing lady beetles to hunt more effectively. This could lead to a decrease in pesticide required for crop protection.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEcology·DateSep 19, 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.

Fingertip sensor gives robot unprecedented dexterity

Researchers equipped a robot with a novel tactile sensor, allowing it to grasp and manipulate objects in unprecedented ways. The sensor uses optics and computer-vision algorithms to infer the three-dimensional structure of surfaces, giving the robot feedback in real-time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 19, 2014

Scientists discover an on-off switch for aging cells

Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a 'switch' in cells that can be turned on and off to control telomerase activity. This switch could help keep telomerase levels low, potentially slowing aging and regenerating vital organs.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 19, 2014

NASA, NOAA satellites show Odile's remnant romp through southern US

The TRMM satellite detected heavy rainfall rates over 111 mm/h near El Paso, Texas, with thunderstorm tops reaching up to 13 km. The GOES-West infrared image showed a large area of clouds associated with the remnants over New Mexico and Texas, posing a flash flood threat for parts of the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 19, 2014

Soft robotics 'toolkit' features everything a robot-maker needs

The Soft Robotics Toolkit offers downloadable plans, how-to videos, and case studies to assist users in designing, fabricating, modeling, characterizing, and controlling soft robotic devices. The toolkit aims to stimulate innovation and learning in the field of soft robotics.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalSoft Robotics·DateSep 19, 2014
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.

Mayo researchers reveal pathway that contributes to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered a defect in the Wnt signaling pathway that contributes to both overproduction of toxic protein and loss of communication between neurons in Alzheimer's patients. Targeting this specific defect with drugs may rejuvenate or rescue the pathway, potentially preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNeuron·DateSep 19, 2014

Reflected smartphone transmissions enable gesture control

University of Washington researchers create a system that uses reflected smartphone signals to recognize and respond to hand gestures, enabling users to interact with their phones beyond touchscreens. The technology has an accuracy rate of 87% and could improve battery life.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateSep 19, 2014

New research points to graphene as a flexible, low-cost touchscreen solution

Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed graphene-treated nanowires as a cost-effective alternative to indium tin oxide (ITO) for touchscreen technology. This innovative material can produce flexible displays at a fraction of the current cost, making it an attractive option for manufacturers.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 19, 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.

A better way to track emerging cell therapies using MRIs

A new technique uses perfluorocarbon tracers in combination with MRI to track therapeutic immune cells injected into patients with colorectal cancer. The study found that only half of the delivered cell vaccine remained at the inoculation site after 24 hours, but the technology shows promise for tracking other cell types and diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMagnetic Resonance in Medicine·DateSep 19, 2014

New hadrosaur noses into spotlight

A new hadrosaur species, Rhinorex condrupus, with a unique nasal profile has been discovered in Utah. The species lived approximately 75 million years ago and is believed to have weighed over 8,500 lbs., helping fill gaps about habitat segregation during the Late Cretaceous period.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·DateSep 19, 2014

Quick-change materials break the silicon speed limit for computers

Researchers have developed phase-change materials that can switch between crystalline and glassy phases to enable fast logic-processing operations. These new devices could process speeds up to 500-1,000 times faster than current silicon-based computers while using less energy.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2014

Lymphatic fluid used for first time to detect bovine paratuberculosis

Researchers have developed a new method for detecting bovine paratuberculosis using lymphatic fluid, which yields more positive results than traditional methods. The test has shown to be effective in identifying infected animals, with about 70% of tested animals being culled from their herds after one year.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalVeterinary Microbiology·DateSep 19, 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.