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Science News Archive 2014


Page 122 of 376

Visualizing plastic changes to the brain

Researchers have successfully visualized the effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on neurons in real-time using voltage-sensitive dyes. The high-resolution imaging data may lead to optimized TMS parameters and learning processes for treating neurological diseases.

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.

Finding new approaches for therapeutics against Ebola virus

Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic approach against Ebola virus infection by targeting cellular proteins critical for the virus's functions. Oubain, a drug previously used to treat heart disease, has been shown to reduce virus replication in infected cells.

AGU: Ozone pollution in India kills enough crops to feed 94 million in poverty

A new study finds that India's ground-level ozone pollution damages millions of tons of major crops, including wheat and rice, each year, with losses estimated at over $1 billion. The damage is enough to feed tens of millions of people living in poverty, highlighting the need for policy changes to address ozone pollution.

Bats change strategy when food is scarce

Researchers found desert long-eared bats changed their diet from mostly scorpions on the ground to catching flying insects when prey was scarce. The change involved altered call and flight behavior, indicating potential flexibility in echolocation.

Climate-smart agriculture requires three-pronged global research agenda

A global research agenda is necessary to address the challenges of climate-smart agriculture, which aims to improve farm productivity while maintaining ecosystem services. The initiative focuses on three key areas: farm and food systems, landscape and regional issues, and institutional and policy matters.

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.

Hurricane Norbert pinwheels in NASA satellite imagery

Hurricane Norbert's visible bands of thunderstorms spiraled into the center in NASA satellite imagery on September 4, but lost some organization due to easterly vertical wind shear. The hurricane is forecast to track parallel along the coast of Baja California for the next couple of days.

Decoding the role of water in gold nanocatalysis

Gold nanoparticles work as catalysts to speed chemical reactions despite being inert metals. Researchers have now fully understood the role of water in this process, revealing its crucial role as a co-catalyst for transforming carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide.

New protagonist in cell reprogramming discovered

A team of researchers from the Centre for Genomic Regulation in Barcelona has identified a key protein involved in stem cell reprogramming, Nanog. The study reveals how Nanog works with another protein, beta-catenin, to maintain stem cells in a pluripotent state.

Soy supplementation adversely effects expression of breast cancer-related genes

A recent study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that soy supplementation altered the expression of genes associated with breast cancer. The study involved 140 patients who were randomized to either soy supplementation or placebo, and observed changes in several genes that promote cell cycle progression a...

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.

Researchers turn to plants to help treat hemophilia

A new study uses genetically modified plants to teach the immune system to tolerate clotting factors, reducing the risk of antibody formation. The treatment, which involves feeding mice with plant capsules, has shown promising results and may offer a cost-effective alternative to current treatments.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

2-D or 3-D? That is the question

Researchers at University of Utah found that emotional reactions to film formats are similar. The study used 408 subjects and measured physiological responses to 2-D and 3-D clips from popular films.

Public trust has dwindled with rise in income inequality

A recent study found that public trust in others and confidence in societal institutions have reached their lowest point in over three decades. The decline is attributed to the increasing wealth gap and poverty, leading to a perception of distrust among people towards each other and large corporations.

Mantle plumes crack continents

Mantle plumes may be responsible for breaking up continents, according to a new study. The researchers used high-resolution computer simulations to demonstrate how the interaction between a plume and a plate under tensile stress can lead to continental breakup, forming rift systems and creating volcanoes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Would web support be good for patients in an exercise referral scheme?

A new exercise referral scheme is being tested with the addition of web-based coaching to see if it can increase patient engagement and achieve public health targets. The study aims to investigate the cost-effectiveness and effectiveness of this approach in improving physical activity and overall health.

WHO-commissioned report on e-cigarettes misleading, say experts

A recent WHO-commissioned review of evidence on e-cigarettes contains important errors and misinterpretations that may put policy-makers and the public in danger. The authors argue that e-cigarettes are much safer than cigarettes and could have significant public health benefits if regulated correctly.

Atomically thin material opens door for integrated nanophotonic circuits

Researchers developed a basic model circuit combining silver nanowire and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) that efficiently guides electricity and light along the same wire. The material enables strong light emission and efficient energy transfer, promising to improve mobile technology performance and efficiency.

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.

Archerfish target shoot with 'skillfully thrown' water

Researchers reveal that archerfish actively control the dynamics of their water jets to hit targets at varying distances, employing a unique tool-using behavior. This adaptability has potential applications in human-built nozzles and industries.

Implact of dexamethasone on intelligence and hearing in preterm infants

A meta-analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials found that dexamethasone may impact preterm infant intelligence in early stages after birth, but lead to hearing impairment at later stages. The study provides evidence for clinical application of dexamethasone in treating respiratory distress syndrome and chronic lung diseases.

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.

Study shows complexities of reducing HIV rates in Russia

A new study in Russia highlights the challenges of reducing HIV transmission among heavy drinkers. The study shows that a behavioral intervention did not lead to a reduction in STIs and HIV risk behaviors, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions. Researchers recommend exploring alternative approaches to stem the growing epidemic.

An 'anchor' that keeps proteins together

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have discovered a new scaffold protein called PRO40 that plays a crucial role in the production of fruiting bodies in hyphae fungi. By binding to specific kinases, PRO40 enables signal transmission and regulates MAP kinase modules.

Harvard and Cornell researchers develop untethered, autonomous soft robot

Researchers at Harvard University and Cornell University have developed a non-rigid, shape-changing robot that can walk on four legs and operate without constraints. The robot can function in snowstorms, move through puddles of water, and withstand limited exposure to flames, with a payload capacity of up to 8 kg.

Should scientists handle retractions differently?

A recent study by MIT scholars reveals that retracted papers can have a significant impact on the field, causing a relative decline in citations and funding. The study highlights the need for scientists to describe the nature of each retraction in more detail, as well as the importance of separating scientific value from misconduct.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers identify new rare neuromuscular disease

A new inherited neuromuscular disorder has been identified, resulting from a genetic mutation disrupting nerve-muscle communication. The condition affects multiple generations and is associated with mutations in the synaptotagmin 2 protein.

Artificial cells take their first steps

Scientists at Technical University of Munich created a simple cell model with a specific function using basic ingredients. The artificial cell can move and change shape without external influences, mimicking natural cell behavior.

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.

Cystic fibrosis: Additional immune dysfunction discovered

Research found that cystic fibrosis patients have a deficiency in the immune system, specifically with HLA-DQ molecules on their cells. This deficiency affects the body's ability to fight off infections and is linked to the disease's progression.

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.

Titania-based material holds promise as new insulator for superconductors

Researchers from NC State University have developed a titania-based material that can effectively insulate superconducting magnets, allowing for the preservation of electrical pathways and efficient heat dissipation. This breakthrough has significant implications for next-generation power generation technologies and medical devices.

Scientists prove ground and tree salamanders have same diets

Researchers found that red-legged salamanders on trees had the same diet as those on the ground, contradicting the theory that climbing allows access to new food sources. The study suggests alternative explanations for salamander behavior, including competition and predator avoidance.

Sugar substitutes not so super sweet after all

A study by Penn State researchers found that non-nutritive sweeteners are not as sweet as commonly believed, contrary to marketing claims. Participants could detect these sweeteners at lower levels but did not perceive them as sweeter than sugar.

Researchers define a spontaneous retinal neovascular mouse model

A novel mutant mouse model, NRV2, has been developed to study retinal neovascularization, a condition characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. The researchers found that NRV2 mice show spontaneous retinal depigmentation and neovascularization, which mimic the early clinical stages of RAP disease in humans.

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.

Trinity geologists re-write Earth's evolutionary history books

Researchers found evidence of chemical weathering and soil formation at least 60 million years earlier than previously thought. This discovery suggests that oxygen-producing species existed on Earth 3 billion years ago, paving the way for complex life to evolve.

Reacting to personal setbacks: Do you bounce back or give up?

A new study from Rutgers University-Newark reveals that the ability to persist in the face of personal setbacks may depend on how the news is delivered. The study found that when individuals perceive a loss of control, activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex is necessary to promote persistence.

Birth of a mineral

Researchers used a powerful microscope to study the birth of crystals in real time, revealing that calcium carbonate forms into different minerals through various pathways. This discovery may help scientists understand how to lock carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and better reconstruct ancient climates.

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.

Pesticide risk assessments seen as biased

A study published in BioScience argues that the US Environmental Protection Agency's pesticide risk assessment practices are flawed, inviting bias towards industry interests. The agency's reliance on manufacturer-funded studies and rigid inclusion criteria may lead to incomplete assessments. The authors recommend improving the process ...

Lesbian, gay and bisexual populations in England report poorer health

A new study by RAND Corporation reveals that lesbian, gay and bisexual women and men in England are more likely to suffer from poor health than the general population. They also experience unfavorable healthcare experiences, including negative interactions with primary care physicians and nurses.

Ship ahoy! Fraunhofer displays innovations at SMM

The Fraunhofer Institute is showcasing its Virtual Maritime Interior Configurator, a tool that enables realistic planning of ship interiors without physical mock-ups. The company is also introducing the Crew Compliance Organizer software to simplify crew management and reduce regulatory violations. Additionally, Fraunhofer will display...

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.

Transplanted stem cells help prevent bladder fibrosis after spinal cord injury

Researchers found that transplanting B10 human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells into the bladder wall of mice with spinal cord injury improved bladder function by promoting the growth of smooth muscle cells. This study provides potential evidence for MSC-based cell transplantation as a novel therapeutic strategy for bladder d...