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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 286


Page 286 of 376

Higher risk of death from skin cancer among men living alone

A nationwide study in Sweden found that single men are more likely to die of cutaneous malignant melanoma. The researchers discovered that this applies to men of all ages, regardless of education level or residence. Early detection is crucial for survival, as skin cancer can be cured if treated early enough.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 1, 2014

Mode of action of new multiple sclerosis drug discovered

Researchers have discovered how new MS drug dimethyl fumarate works, blocking inflammatory cell infiltration in the central nervous system by targeting a specific receptor. The study found that DMF reduces neurological deficits in mice with multiple sclerosis-like symptoms.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2014

Carbon nanotubes grow in combustion flames

Theoretical simulations reveal that carbon nanotube growth and hydrocarbon combustion share similarities, with the ethynyl radical playing a key role in both processes. This finding could lead to new ways to control CNT growth and increase understanding of fuel combustion processes.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalCarbon·DateApr 1, 2014

Deforestation of sandy soils a greater climate threat

Researchers found that deforestation has minimal effects on muddy clay-like soils, but dramatically alters microbial communities in sandy soils, leading to increased carbon loss and potential for exaggerating global warming. This discovery could inform land management practices prioritizing the conservation of biodiversity and sequestr...

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 1, 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.

Elsevier announces the launch of a new journal: Vehicular Communications

The new journal will publish research on communications between vehicles and roadside infrastructure, exploring topics such as routing, safety, and standardization. Advances in wireless communications are making real-time information sharing easier between vehicles and infrastructure.

SourceElsevier·JournalVehicular Communications·DateApr 1, 2014

Northwestern study tests drug against Parkinson's disease

A $16 million phase III study of isradipine as a potential neuroprotective agent in Parkinson's disease will be conducted at 56 sites in North America. Researchers aim to delay disease progression by protecting dopamine-producing neurons from toxicity.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateApr 1, 2014

Ancient nomads spread earliest domestic grains along Silk Road, study finds

Researchers found charred grains of barley, millet, and wheat in Kazakhstan campsites dating back nearly 5,000 years. This discovery pushes back the known East-West interaction along the Silk Road by 2,000 years, indicating nomadic pastoralists played a key role in spreading domesticated crops throughout Central Eurasia.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateApr 1, 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.

Customers prefer restaurants that offer nutrition facts and healthful foods

Researchers found that customers perceive restaurants as socially responsible when provided with nutrition facts and healthful options, leading to increased patronage. Highly health-conscious individuals are more likely to favor such restaurants, regardless of the presence of nutrition information.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateApr 1, 2014

New yeast species travelled the globe with a little help from the beetles

Researchers have identified a new yeast species that travels the globe with beetles, offering hope for developing renewable fuels. Preserving biodiversity is crucial to unlock the microbial life's potential solutions to global challenges.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateApr 1, 2014

Winners of international blogging awards announced

The second annual SAGE-Sponsored OAIS Awards have recognized the impact of international blogging on scholarly communication. The winners include Dart Throwing Chimp, Political Violence @ A Glance, and Nuclear Diner, among others, who have made significant contributions to International Studies blogging.

SourceSAGE·DateApr 1, 2014

Misleading mineral may have resulted in overestimate of water in moon

Researchers found that apatite, a commonly used method for estimating lunar water content, may not be reliable due to its hydrogen-rich crystals forming from cooling magma. The discovery has significant implications for understanding the moon's formation and evolution.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 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.

Energy Systems Integration Facility named Lab of the Year

The Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF) has been recognized as the 2014 Laboratory of the Year by R&D Magazine. The facility showcases a unique combination of an ultra-energy efficient workplace, high-performance computing data center, and sophisticated laboratory spaces.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateApr 1, 2014

Wind energy: On the grid, off the checkerboard

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a new method to study wake effects in wind farms, challenging conventional wisdom on the best arrangement of turbines. They found that an 'intermediate' staggering, where rows are imperfectly offset, can improve power output in some cases.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateApr 1, 2014

Digital mammography reduces recall and biopsy rates

A new study found that full-field digital mammography (FFDM) is associated with lower recall and biopsy rates than screen film mammography (SFM), reducing the number of unnecessary diagnostic workups. FFDM implementation led to lower false positive screening exams and fewer biopsies with benign outcomes.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 1, 2014

Quality improvement initiative leads to reduction in unnecessary follow-up imaging

A quality improvement initiative at an American College of Radiology institution led to a significant reduction in unnecessary follow-up imaging for adnexal cystic lesions. The initiative improved sonographic characterization and imaging triage, increasing confidence in characterizing certain lesions as physiologic or benign.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateApr 1, 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.

Oxytocin, the 'love' hormone, promotes group lying, according to Ben-Gurion U. researchers

A study by researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that oxytocin causes participants to lie more to benefit their groups and do so quickly without expectation of reciprocal dishonesty. This raises questions about the morality of lying, even when it benefits those close to us.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2014

Computers teach each other Pac-Man

A team of researchers from Washington State University developed a novel approach to teaching computers new skills, mimicking the interaction between a human teacher and student. The method involves giving action advice to help students learn complex games like Pac-Man and StarCraft.

SourceWashington State University·JournalConnection Science·DateApr 1, 2014

Overuse of blood transfusions increases infection risk

A new study found that the more red blood cells patients receive through transfusions, the higher their risk of developing infections. Elderly patients undergoing hip or knee surgeries were most susceptible, with a 30% lower risk of infection when fewer transfusions were used.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·DateApr 1, 2014
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Scientists solve the riddle of zebras' stripes

Researchers found biting flies, including horseflies and tsetse flies, drive zebra's black and white stripes. The study ruled out other hypotheses such as camouflage and social function.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2014

The Neanderthal in us

Researchers found that European humans have a higher number of Neanderthal variants in genes related to lipid breakdown, which may have provided a selective advantage. This study suggests that Neanderthal ancestry has driven evolutionary changes in lipid processing and brain composition among Europeans.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2014

Like hand-washing, blood transfusions linked to infections

A study published in JAMA found that restricting blood transfusions reduces healthcare-associated infections by 18%, saving lives and costs. The research suggests that a more restrictive approach to transfusions could alleviate patient suffering and reduce hospital costs.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateApr 1, 2014

'Touched' female cockroaches reproduce faster

Researchers at NC State University found that tactile stimulation, such as touch from other female cockroaches or even duck feathers, speeds up reproduction in females. Pairing two cockroaches together produces the fastest rate of reproduction.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateApr 1, 2014

Warm North Atlantic Ocean promotes extreme winters in US and Europe

A new study published in Environmental Research Letters has found that a warm North Atlantic Ocean can promote extreme winters in the US and Europe. The research suggests that natural variations in sea surface temperatures, such as the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, can affect atmospheric circulation patterns like the North Atlanti...

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 1, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

For most adolescents, popularity increases the risk of getting bullied

A new study suggests that popularity among adolescents increases their risk of getting bullied and worsens the negative consequences. The researchers found that students in the middle to upper social hierarchy are more likely to be victimized, with the likelihood increasing by over 25% for those who reach the top of the social ladder.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateApr 1, 2014

Bullying happens to popular teens too

A University of California, Davis study found that popular adolescents are at high risk of being bullied and experience worse psychological and social consequences compared to less popular peers. The research revealed that victims of harassment often suffer anxiety, anger, and depression.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateApr 1, 2014

Swimming pool urine combines with chlorine to pose health risks

A new study reveals that uric acid in urine generates hazardous 'volatile disinfection byproducts' in swimming pools when combined with chlorine. This reaction can lead to toxic compounds like cyanogen chloride and trichloramine, posing health risks to swimmers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 1, 2014

Simple changes in ICU can help heart attack patients: Study

Research suggests that interrupting diurnal rhythms impairs healing immediately after a heart attack, while normal cycles promote better outcomes. Maintaining circadian rhythms during the first few days after an attack can improve scar formation and healing.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalCirculation Research·DateApr 1, 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.

Overcoming structural uncertainty in computer models

A novel approach to managing model structural uncertainty is introduced, which can help prioritize improvements for better decision-making. The method analyzes internal discrepancies within the model and expresses beliefs about error sizes, providing an indication of relative importance.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateApr 1, 2014

The mammography dilemma

A comprehensive review suggests that mammography screening benefits are often exaggerated while harms are understated. The study's findings emphasize the need for individualized approach to breast cancer screening based on clinical factors and personal preferences.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·DateApr 1, 2014

World's oldest weather report could revise Bronze Age chronology

A 3,500-year-old Egyptian inscription describes rain, darkness and stormy weather, suggesting a massive Thera eruption in the Mediterranean Sea. The revised dating of the pharaoh Ahmose's reign could change scholars' understanding of critical junctures in human history.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJournal of Near Eastern Studies·DateApr 1, 2014

Heart attack gene, MRP-14, triggers blood clot formation

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have discovered how MRP-14 generates dangerous clots that could trigger heart attack or stroke. MRP-14 binds to a platelet receptor called CD36 to activate platelets, promoting pathologic blood clotting.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 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.

One currency, one price?

A recent study by MIT economists finds strong convergence of prices within the Eurozone, with prices differing by 30-50% lower than in neighboring countries. The research suggests that the common currency drives identical pricing, contradicting previous findings.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateApr 1, 2014

Good vibrations: Using light-heated water to deliver drugs

Scientists have discovered a new mechanism for using light to activate drug-delivering nanoparticles, providing precise control over the release of therapeutic substances. The method employs near-infrared light from a low-power laser to heat pockets of water within non-photo-responsive polymeric nanoparticles infused with drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 1, 2014

Early intervention reduces aggressive behavior in adulthood

A study published in Psychological Science found that children who participated in the Fast Track program showed reduced aggression later in life. The researchers believe that the program's success may be linked to changes in testosterone reactivity to social threats.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 1, 2014

BUSM study finds increasing health coverage does not improve readmission rates

A BUSM study found that expanding health insurance coverage in Massachusetts did not reduce 30-day readmission rates, particularly among African-American and Hispanic populations. The researchers suggest that states need to go beyond expanding insurance coverage to address disparities in access to care.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 31, 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.

Research shows link between states' personalities and their politics

A recent study found a strong correlation between states' core political characteristics and collective personality traits. States with lower conscientiousness or higher agreeableness tend to have a positive view of government, while those with higher openness to experience are more likely to be ideologically liberal.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPolitical Research Quarterly·DateMar 31, 2014

Researchers reveal a new pathway through the sodium pump

The sodium pump's hybrid function enables simultaneous import of protons, raising questions about its role in pathologies. This discovery may have important implications for conditions like muscle exercise, heart attacks, and strokes.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateMar 31, 2014

Academic workplace bias against parents hurts nonparents too

A new study from Rice University found that university workplace bias against scientists and engineers who use flexible work arrangements may increase employee dissatisfaction and turnover, even for those without children. The research suggests that flexibility stigma can lead to a toxic culture that affects department productivity.

SourceRice University·JournalWork and Occupations·DateMar 31, 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.

Vibration may help heal chronic wounds

Researchers found that low-intensity vibration can accelerate wound healing in mice with diabetes by forming more granulation tissue and new blood vessels. The study suggests that this non-invasive technique could be easily translated to humans and is being tested in human trials.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 31, 2014

Leeds to lead the way in Earth observation research

The University of Leeds is set to host two national centres for Earth observation research, driving economic growth through space technologies. Scientists will analyse satellite data to track climate change and ice sheet movements, providing unprecedented views of the planet.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateMar 31, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for April 1, 2014

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that men with HIV have a greater risk and extent of coronary artery disease compared to uninfected men. Meanwhile, nearly one-third of patients fail to fill their first-time prescriptions, which may impact clinical outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 31, 2014

Major breakthrough in stem cell manufacturing technology

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have developed a new substance to simplify stem cell manufacturing, enabling mass-production of complex living materials. The innovation allows for both self-renewal and differentiation in a single step process, with implications for regenerative medicine.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 31, 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.

Computer science professor Roxana Geambasu wins NSF CAREER Award

Roxana Geambasu, a Columbia University computer science professor, has won a $499,000 NSF CAREER Award to create new data protection mechanisms for mobile and cloud devices. Her research focuses on ensuring data security and privacy in an era of increasing threats and irresponsible data management practices.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateMar 31, 2014

Can antibiotics cause autoimmunity?

Researchers discovered that antibiotics like gentamicin can cause abnormal proteins to be presented to the immune system, potentially triggering autoimmune disease. This approach, used to treat diseases in genes with truncated proteins, may come with a risk of initiating autoimmunity.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 31, 2014

Study further illuminates heart-healthy benefits of Mediterranean diet

A new study published in Blood journal found that adhering to a Mediterranean diet is associated with lower levels of platelets and white blood cells, two markers of inflammation. This eating plan is linked to reduced inflammation and heart disease risk, particularly among healthy individuals.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateMar 31, 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.

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.

Diamonds are an oil's best friend

Rice University scientists have found that a mixture of diamond nanoparticles and mineral oil outperforms other types of fluid in heat transfer applications. The researchers tested the nanofluid at concentrations up to 0.1 percent weight and found significant improvements in thermal conductivity, while maintaining a usable viscosity.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 31, 2014

New human trial shows stem cells are effective for failing hearts

A new human trial demonstrates the effectiveness of injecting bone marrow-derived stem cells into the heart muscle to improve heart function in patients with severe ischemic heart disease. The treatment improved heart pump function by 8.2 milliliters, compared to an increase of 6 milliliters in the placebo group.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 31, 2014