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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 111


Page 111 of 376

Pitt chemical biologist finds new halogenation enzyme

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a new halogenation enzyme that can selectively replace inert C-H bonds with C-X bonds, enabling the creation of tailored molecules with improved pharmacological profiles. This breakthrough is expected to revolutionize the fields of pharmaceutical and agricultural industries.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 15, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study indicates hunting restrictions for tapirs may not be enough

A recent study published in Oryx, a conservation journal, indicates that lowland tapir populations in French Guiana are at risk despite recent hunting restrictions. The research highlights the need for additional restrictions to ensure the long-term survival of this vulnerable species.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalOryx·DateSep 15, 2014

Mindfulness protects adults' health from the impacts of childhood adversity

Adults who experienced childhood adversity show poorer health but those with high mindfulness report better health regardless of adversity levels. Nearly half of adults have multiple types of adverse childhood experiences, and those with higher mindfulness levels have a 50% lower risk of health conditions.

SourceTemple University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateSep 15, 2014

Microbiome research shows each tree species has a unique bacterial identity

Research reveals that 57 Panamanian tree species have distinct bacterial communities on their leaves, with some bacteria linked to nitrogen fixing and methane consumption. The study provides a comparable understanding of the host attributes that explain patterns of microbial diversity in the plant microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 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.

Cells simply avoid chromosome confusion

Researchers found a strong, extra-tight linkage that joins sister chromatids in early stages of meiosis, preventing premature separation and misalignment. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms that ensure proper distribution of chromosomes in healthy cells.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateSep 15, 2014

UH study finds print readers recall more than online readers

A University of Houston study reveals that print readers remember an average of 4.24 news stories, while online readers recall only 3.35 stories. The researchers attribute the difference to the nature of online news as a medium with multiple uses and ephemeral content.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNewspaper Research Journal·DateSep 15, 2014

Cancer-fighting cocktail demonstrates promising results as treatment for advanced cervical cancer

A combination of chemotherapy drugs cisplatin and pemetrexed improved survival rates and response to advanced cervical cancer by 31% compared to standard alternative, while being less toxic to patients. Adding bevacizumab further increased patient survival, suggesting the cocktail may offer further benefits.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 15, 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.

Freshman girls know how to eat healthy but lack confidence in their ability to do it

A University of Illinois study found that female college freshmen understand the benefits of a healthy diet, but struggle with confidence in preparing it. Women's self-efficacy and outcome expectations play a significant role in their ability to make healthy choices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBehavior Modification·DateSep 15, 2014

Study finds drop in death rates from strokes over last 2 decades

A recent study found a 24% decline in first-time strokes and a 20% drop in deaths after strokes over the last 24 years. However, the risk of stroke was concentrated mainly in older adults, with little progress made in reducing the risk among younger people.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJAMA·DateSep 15, 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.

'Nuclear disasters don't respect national boundaries'

Sonja Schmid, an assistant professor at Virginia Tech, has won a CAREER Award to develop a global nuclear emergency response plan. Her research will address how to create international cooperation and mobilize effective responses to future nuclear disasters.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateSep 15, 2014

How are hybridized species affecting wildlife?

Researchers found that hybridization can lead to increased genetic diversity in wild populations, but natural selection can ultimately remove adaptive advantages. The study suggests that hybridized populations may not be as affected by human-mediated hybridization with domesticated species.

SourceWiley·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateSep 15, 2014

UChicago study finds young women involve parent in abortion when anticipating support

A recent UChicago study found that pregnant teens will turn to supportive parents and adults in their lives for help making the abortion decision. The majority of young women involved a parent or guardian, driven by factors like close relationships, need for logistics assistance, and concerns about parental interference.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 15, 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.

Poor diet may increase risk of Parkinson's disease

Research suggests that a high-fat diet can accelerate neurological symptoms in mice genetically predisposed to Parkinson's disease. This diet also causes damage in the brain and affects glucose and insulin regulation.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·DateSep 15, 2014

Researchers control surface tension to manipulate liquid metals

Scientists from North Carolina State University have developed a method for controlling the surface tension of liquid metals by applying very low voltages. This allows researchers to manipulate the shape of antennas, complete or break circuits, and explore various applications in microfluidic channels, MEMS, photonic and optical devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

To curb violent tendencies, start young

A 19-year study found that children who received early interventions for aggressive behavior had fewer convictions for violent crimes, lower rates of serious substance abuse, and fewer psychiatric problems. The program's positive effects held true across four different sites and among both males and females.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 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.

Protein secrets of Ebola virus

A team of scientists at UVA has obtained the crystal structure of a key Ebola virus protein, revealing a novel tertiary fold that could lead to insights into viral assembly and antiviral drug design. The study's results may provide a potential target for the development of new treatments for Ebola hemorrhagic fever.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·DateSep 15, 2014

Does having daughters cause judges to rule for women's issues?

A recent study of 224 judges found that those with daughters vote more in favor of women's issues than their counterparts without daughters. The effect is most pronounced among Republican judges, suggesting personal experiences play a role in judicial decision-making.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateSep 15, 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.

T-bet tackles hepatitis

High levels of T-bet in CD8+ T cells are prevalent in individuals who successfully fight off hepatitis infections. The protein is linked to the production of antiviral molecules like interferon and the ability of CD8+ T cells to multiply in response to the virus.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 15, 2014

The creation of the Vuoksi River preceded a significant cultural shift

The creation of the Vuoksi River approximately 6,000 years ago led to a significant cultural shift in eastern Finland. The rapid decrease in Lake Saimaa's water level revealed fertile land, flourishing elk populations attracted innovative human settlements, and a new culture emerged.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Holocene·DateSep 15, 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.

Specialized species critical for reefs

A recent study found that many reef fish species carry out unique and essential roles, making ecosystem vulnerability to loss of those species high. The researchers argue that protecting these specialist species is crucial to maintaining ecosystem health.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

Elusive quantum transformations found near absolute zero

Scientists from Brookhaven Lab and Stony Brook University explored quantum fluctuations behind a novel magnetic material's ultra-cold ferromagnetic phase transition. They measured the electronic, magnetic, and thermodynamic performance of metallic materials at near absolute zero temperatures.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

Researchers develop improved means of detecting mismatched DNA

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified a highly sensitive means of analyzing tiny amounts of DNA. The new analytical method compares favorably with existing techniques, enabling the detection of small amounts of DNA in samples.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateSep 15, 2014

Researchers discover new producer of crucial vitamin

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers reveals that a single group of microorganisms may be responsible for most of the world's vitamin B12 production in the oceans. This discovery has significant implications for the global carbon cycle and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateSep 15, 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.

When casualties increased, war coverage became more negative

A Penn State researcher found that as U.S. casualties rose in Afghanistan, war coverage became increasingly negative towards the military and the war effort. Reporters who were embedded with troops reported more negative tones than those outside the country.

SourcePenn State·JournalNewspaper Research Journal·DateSep 15, 2014

Early Earth less hellish than previously thought

New study suggests that early Earth's crust was cool enough for surface water to form during some periods, challenging the long-held idea of a hostile environment. The research compared zircon crystals from Iceland with those formed over 4 billion years ago and found similarities in their compositions.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateSep 15, 2014

X-rays unlock a protein's SWEET side

Researchers at Stanford University have unlocked the structure of SWEETs, proteins that enable sugar molecules to cross cell membranes. The discovery, made possible by X-ray analysis, could lead to breakthroughs in diabetes treatment and crop improvement.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateSep 15, 2014

News from Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet, Sept. 16, 2014

The American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends Kegel exercises, bladder training, and weight loss as effective nonsurgical treatment options for women with urinary incontinence. Generic statins are also shown to improve adherence to medication and clinical outcomes compared to brand-name drugs. Chiropractic care coupled with exerc...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 15, 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.

The quick and the dead among tropical reptiles

A Dartmouth-led study finds that tropical reptiles can adapt quickly to climate change through natural selection. Researchers measured the thermal physiology of brown anole lizards and found that those who ran fastest at warmer temperatures had a higher survival rate, suggesting they may be better equipped to cope with heat stress.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

Cost-share programs encourage most to mitigate wildfire danger

A collaborative study found that people with higher wildfire risk ratings are less likely to participate in cost-sharing programs. However, the majority of landowners (84%) said they would participate in a cost-share program for removing vegetation on their properties.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalInternational Journal of Wildland Fire·DateSep 15, 2014

Study: Web-based training can reduce campus rape

A web-based training program, RealConsent, was found to reduce sexually violent behavior and increase the likelihood of male students intervening to prevent sexual assault. The study involved over 700 male undergraduate students, who showed improved behavior after completing the training.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateSep 15, 2014

Poverty-obesity link is more prevalent for women than men, study shows

A new study by the University of Texas at Austin finds that adolescent girls from economically disadvantaged families are more likely to become overweight or obese in adulthood. The research highlights the long-lasting consequences of economic hardship in childhood for obesity risk and social disadvantage in adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateSep 15, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

When rulers can't understand the ruled

A recent study by Johns Hopkins University researchers found that unelected officials in Washington have limited understanding of the American public. The survey revealed significant differences between federal workers and the general population, including demographic disparities, education levels, and political affiliations.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateSep 15, 2014

Think big! Bacteria breach cell division size limit

Scientists have discovered bacteria that can divide in lengths ranging from 3 to 45 micrometers, defying conventional cell division rules. This discovery has significant implications for understanding microbial biology and the potential impact of these microorganisms on human health.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 15, 2014

Habitual Facebook users: Suckers for social media scams?

A study found that frequent Facebook use and inability to regulate social media consumption make individuals susceptible to phishing attacks. Social media phishing is used in various crimes, including home invasion, cyber bullying, and espionage, highlighting the need for understanding why people fall victim to such scams.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateSep 15, 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.

NSF awards $15 million in second set of coastal sustainability grants

The National Science Foundation has awarded over $15 million in grants to study coastal sustainability, addressing key issues like sea-level rise, invasive species, and climate change impacts on coastal ecosystems. The grants aim to improve management of coastal environments and provide ecosystem services that sustain human well-being.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateSep 15, 2014

Brain development in schizophrenia strays from the normal path

Researchers studied brain development in people with and without schizophrenia, finding altered trajectories of growth in highly-connected brain regions. The findings provide clues to the underlying causes of schizophrenia, supporting a neurodevelopmental disorder hypothesis.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 2014

UK study identifies molecule that induces cancer-killing protein

A UK study has identified a novel molecule called Arylquin 1 that induces Par-4 secretion from normal cells, killing cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. The researchers found that Arylquin 1 binds to vimentin, displacing the Par-4 for secretion and may be useful in inhibiting tumor metastasis.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 15, 2014
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.

Airborne particles beyond traffic fumes may affect asthma risk

Researchers in Australia found that airborne dust particles stimulate inflammatory responses in airway cells, contributing to asthma development and worsening. The study suggests larger particles derived from dust may have important adverse effects on human health.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateSep 15, 2014

'Squid skin' metamaterials project yields vivid color display

The Rice University lab has developed an RGB color display technology using aluminum nanorods, creating vivid red, blue and green hues comparable to high-definition LCD displays. The technology uses plasmonic aluminum nanorods in ordered arrays to produce dozens of colors, including rich tones.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014