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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 199


Page 199 of 376

New analysis reveals previously 'hidden diversity' of mouth bacteria

A new computational method has uncovered closely related, previously indistinguishable bacteria living in different parts of the human mouth. The study provides high taxonomic resolution of bacterial communities, revealing distinct bacteria in saliva, tongue, gums, plaque, and tonsils with unique properties.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2014

Fungal infection control methods for lucky bamboo

A study recommends a systems approach to controlling fungal infections in lucky bamboo, including training and disease management at source and application of systemic fungicides. Latent presence of Colletotrichum dracaenophilum found in up to 43% of non-inoculated stalks.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJun 23, 2014

Cell stress inflames the gut

Researchers found that the unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling cascade plays a crucial role in protecting intestinal cells from damage. However, an overactive UPR caused by the CHOP protein can slow down tissue repair and lead to chronic inflammation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateJun 23, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gut microbe levels are linked to type 2 diabetes and obesity

Researchers found changes in gut microbiota composition among people with Type 2 diabetes or obesity compared to healthy individuals. The study identified associations between specific bacterial species and metabolic variables such as BMI, hemoglobin A1c, and waist circumference.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 23, 2014

The next food revolution

According to Doug Rauch, one-third to 40% of all food grown is never consumed due to expiration dates and infrastructure issues. The Daily Table, a new restaurant and store, aims to reduce food waste by offering expired produce at reduced prices.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·DateJun 23, 2014

Battle of the bulge occurs in the liver

A study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that free radical molecules contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and fatty liver disease by inactivating protein tyrosine phosphatases. This inactivation leads to a cascade of events promoting disease progression.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 23, 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.

Many ER patients test positive for HIV while in most infectious stage

A study by Maricopa Integrated Health System found that nearly one-quarter of ER patients with confirmed HIV diagnosis have acute infections and over one-quarter have advanced to AIDS. The results emphasize the importance of early detection and interventions to extend life and minimize transmission risk.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateJun 23, 2014

Study sheds light on racial disparity in colon cancer

African-Americans with colon cancer are half as likely to have a genetic marker linked to better outcomes compared to Caucasian patients. The study also found that African-Americans are more likely to have right-sided colon cancer, which is easier to miss with screening.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 23, 2014

By any stretch

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new stereoscopic measurement system using computer vision to accurately measure infant length. The technique allows infants to be measured while lying naturally on their backs, eliminating the need for physical restriction and reducing discomfort.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateJun 23, 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.

Bisexual men face unique challenges to their sexual health

A new study reveals that bisexual men have unmet public health needs, leaving them vulnerable to STIs and other health problems. The study highlights the importance of addressing social and behavioral factors that affect their sexual health, such as biphobia, masculinity norms, and attitudes towards pregnancy. Researchers recommend int...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 23, 2014

Intervention appears to help teen drivers get more, better practice

An evidence-based behavioral intervention appears to increase supervised practice for teen drivers, leading to improved safety outcomes. The study found that for every 11 teenagers who use the Teen Driving Plan (TDP), one additional teenager would be prevented from failing the tODA assessment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 23, 2014

Grinding away at history using 'forensic' paleontology and archeology

Researchers analyze fossil assemblages from Ohio buhrstone to determine its provenance, revealing characteristics that distinguish it from French buhrstone. The study sheds light on the use of non-destructive techniques in studying ancient artifacts, with potential applications for understanding the origins of other tools.

SourceAmerican Geosciences Institute·JournalPalaios·DateJun 23, 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.

Sharper imaging using X-rays

The HZB team has developed novel 3D X-ray optics, enabling sharper imaging with improved resolution. The new optics capture more light and can be stacked on top of each other to achieve even better results.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNano Research·DateJun 23, 2014
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.

Researchers synthesize previously unknown form of magnesium carbide

An international team of researchers has synthesized a new form of magnesium carbide with unique atomic structure. The substance retains its structure after pressure and temperature reduction, making it a promising element for synthesizing other compounds.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateJun 23, 2014

Survey reveals consumers' pecan preferences

A new survey of US consumers reveals that nearly three-quarters eat pecans regularly, with taste being an important reason. The study also highlights the importance of nutritional and health aspects in marketing tree nuts.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateJun 23, 2014

Diabetes drug, Liraglutide, improves risk factors for heart disease

A multicenter study found that liraglutide, a diabetes drug, reduced weight and improved cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The results showed significant improvements in weight loss and lipid profiles, suggesting a potential lower risk of heart disease.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 23, 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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 24, 2014

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms in men aged 65-75 who have ever smoked, while cautioning against widespread lung cancer screening among high-risk older adults due to insufficient evidence. The committee cited age-related risks and diminishing benefits of extended life fro...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 23, 2014

Endocrine Press publishes guide to treating metabolic emergencies

The Endocrine Society's publishing imprint Endocrine Press has released a comprehensive guide to treating metabolic emergencies. The book provides clinicians with practical resources for managing acute medical and critically ill patients experiencing endocrine and metabolic crises, such as dangerously low blood sugar or excessive thyro...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 23, 2014

Gestures that speak

Neuroscientists found that hand gestures are part of prosody, influencing how meaning is interpreted. The study demonstrates the role of gestures in speech prosody, highlighting their importance in human communication.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 23, 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.

Fantastic voyage into the human lung

A team of investigators at Children's Hospital Los Angeles is award $4 million to create a high-resolution, four-dimensional map of alveolar development in humans and mice. The LungMAP project will provide unprecedented insights into the formation of the gas exchange surface in the human lung.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateJun 23, 2014

Video games, social networks, chat rooms, may help prevent HIV

A study suggests that eHealth interventions, such as interactive websites and video games, can reduce high-risk sexual behaviors and increase HIV testing among men who have sex with men. Digital outreach efforts on social networks and chat rooms also showed promising results in increasing HIV testing and reducing shame felt by young men.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJun 23, 2014

Bone loss persists 2 years after weight loss surgery

A new study shows that patients who undergo gastric bypass surgery lose significant amounts of bone density, even after their weight stabilizes. Bone health may need to be closely monitored in these patients to prevent fractures and osteoporosis.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateJun 23, 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.

Biologists find 'missing link' in the production of protein factories in cells

Researchers at UC San Diego have discovered a specialized system that enables the synthesis of ribosomal proteins, which are crucial for producing life-sustaining proteins. This finding has significant implications for understanding cell growth and development, and may lead to new treatments for diseases such as cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 23, 2014

For gastric bypass patients, percent of weight loss differs by race/ethnicity, study finds

A Kaiser Permanente study found that non-Hispanic white patients lost an average of 63% of their excess weight after gastric bypass surgery, compared to 59% for Hispanic and 56% for black patients. The study also showed that vertical sleeve gastrectomy patients lost similar amounts of weight across racial and ethnic groups.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalSurgery for Obesity and Related Diseases·DateJun 23, 2014

The colon has a safety mechanism that restricts tumor formation

A team of scientists has discovered that the colon has a safety mechanism to restrict adenoma formation and growth. The study found that an increase in BMP production limits the self-renewal capacity of adenoma stem cells, thus impeding rapid development.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 23, 2014

Prisoners unfairly excluded from general clinical research

Current UK guidance excludes prisoners from participating in general clinical research due to perceived difficulties and costs. However, researchers argue that this approach is protectionist and denies prisoners equal access to healthcare and research opportunities.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateJun 23, 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.

Sharpening a test for tracing food-borne illness to source

A new study refines a test for tracing food-borne illnesses to their source, providing clearer guidance on interpreting DNA sequence changes. The findings suggest that isolates with certain variations in bacterial DNA can be linked together, helping investigators pinpoint outbreaks more accurately.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateJun 23, 2014

LED phosphors: Better red makes brighter white

Researchers at LMU Munich have developed a novel red phosphor material that significantly enhances the performance of white-emitting LEDs. The new material generates 14% more light than conventional white-light LEDs while maintaining an excellent color rendering index.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 23, 2014

We can eliminate the major tornado threat in Tornado Alley

Researchers propose building three east-west great walls to eliminate the major tornado threat in Tornado Alley. The walls, inspired by Jiang-Huai Hills in China, can be built locally at high-risk areas and gradually extended to cover the entire region.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalInternational Journal of Modern Physics B·DateJun 23, 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 cure for HIV is a 'major scientific priority'

The global HIV epidemic has seen significant reductions in new infections and AIDS-related deaths thanks to advancements in prevention strategies such as clean needles and condom use, and effective treatment that reduces infectiousness.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 23, 2014

Nearly 1 in 25 US babies are born too soon

A large US study finds that nearly one in 25 babies are born too soon through elective cesarean sections and induced labor without medical indication. This increases the risk of respiratory distress, ventilation, and longer hospital stays for newborns.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalMedical Care·DateJun 23, 2014

Back away, please

Researchers from University of Chicago Booth School of Business found that humans have a general tendency to fear things approaching, regardless of their threat level. This 'approach avoidance' phenomenon is rooted in our survival instincts and can be observed in various daily situations.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 23, 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.

Treading into a gray area along the spectrum of wood decay fungi

Researchers analyzed 33 fungal genomes to determine if wood-decaying fungi fall under one of two general classes. They found that some fungi, such as Botryobasidium botryosum and Jaapia argillacea, show similarities to white rot fungi but lack key enzymes, complicating the traditional categorization.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2014

Cancer chain in the membrane

Supercomputer simulations reveal that Ras protein clusters warp cell membranes, leading researchers to investigate the design of new anticancer drugs. The study uses coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to understand the dynamics of Ras proteins and their interaction with the membrane.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJun 23, 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.

Straw albedo mitigates extreme heat

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that unploughed stubble reflects more solar radiation than tilled surfaces, resulting in a 50% higher level of reflection and a significant effect on extreme heat. No-till farming can reduce local temperatures by up to 2°C on hot days.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 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.

Young indoor tanning increases early risk of skin cancer

Early exposure to ultraviolet radiation from indoor tanning increases the risk of basal cell carcinomas in young people. Researchers found that teens and young adults who use indoor tanning devices are more likely to develop BCC, especially on the torso.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 23, 2014

New data bolsters Higgs boson discovery

Researchers from Rice University have found evidence of the direct decay of the Higgs boson to fermions, a fundamental particle in the Standard Model. This finding strengthens the confirmation of the Higgs boson discovery and sets the stage for further exploration of its properties and potential connections to dark matter.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 23, 2014

Video: Robot can be programmed by casually talking to it

Researchers at Cornell University are teaching robots to understand instructions in natural language from various speakers, account for missing information, and adapt to the environment. The robot learns through machine learning techniques, associating entire commands with flexibly defined actions.

SourceCornell University·DateJun 23, 2014

MIT researchers unveil experimental 36-core chip

Researchers at MIT have developed a 36-core chip featuring a 'network-on-chip' design that enables efficient communication between cores, solving cache coherence issues and improving performance. The chip's hierarchical priority system ensures chronological ordering of requests, while maintaining a balance of equal weight for all cores.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 23, 2014

SLU researchers see possible answer to chemo pain in a multiple sclerosis drug

Saint Louis University researchers have discovered a molecular pathway that causes painful chemotherapy side effects and found a potential way to block it. A drug already approved for treating multiple sclerosis may also alleviate chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) without affecting the medication's anticancer properties.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 23, 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.