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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 301


Page 301 of 376

Multidisciplinary research team led by Tufts CTSI proposes new model for clinical trials

A multidisciplinary research team has developed a new approach, E2E Clinical Trials, which aims to improve the accuracy of treatment selection by seamlessly transitioning from controlled efficacy trials to real-world effectiveness trials. This continuum will provide better understanding of treatment effects on diverse patient populations.

SourceTufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute·DateMar 19, 2014

Comeback of an abandoned antibiotic

Researchers find trimethoprim to be an effective antibiotic against streptococcal infections in some regions, with a lower frequency of resistance than previously believed. The study also identifies three causes for rapid spread of resistance, highlighting the need for responsible antibiotic use.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMar 19, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The scientific legacy of colonialism in Africa

A study by researchers at the University of Lomé suggests that African nations with a British colonial legacy have superior enrolment levels in higher education, leading to increased scientific productivity. The analysis also highlights the impact of language on scientific achievements, with English being a key factor.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Education Economics and Development·DateMar 19, 2014

North Shore-LIJ Cancer Institute doctors' editorial published

A recent German study on a new drug therapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has been published in the New England Journal of Medicine. North Shore-LIJ Cancer Institute doctors highlight that most CLL patients are elderly with coexisting health issues, and the study found that subjects receiving obinutuzumab-chlorambucil had an a...

SourceNorthwell Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2014

Corporate-funded academic inventions spur increased innovation, analysis says

A new analysis found that industry-sponsored inventions yielded patents and licenses more frequently than federally sponsored ones, with results consistent across technical fields. Industry-funded inventions generated an average of 12.8 forward citations compared to 5.6 for federally sponsored inventions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateMar 19, 2014

Radiation damage at the root of Chernobyl's ecosystems

Research finds radiation contamination hinders plant matter decomposition, leading to dry detritus buildup and increased wildfire hazard. Slower decomposition also reduces nutrient supply for plants, affecting tree growth near the Chernobyl site.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalOecologia·DateMar 19, 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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Thermal conductance can be controlled like waves using nanostructures

Scientists at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, have demonstrated that it's possible to change a material's thermal conductance by tuning the wave-like properties of heat flow. By fabricating a nanoscale mesh structure, they were able to reduce phonon thermal conductance by almost an order of magnitude.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2014

Diabetes in middle age may lead to brain cell loss later in life

A study published in Neurology found that developing diabetes and high blood pressure in middle age is associated with brain cell loss and cognitive problems later in life. Middle-aged individuals with these conditions had smaller brain volume and increased risk of thinking and memory issues compared to those without the conditions.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 19, 2014

Sometimes less is more for hungry dogs

A study published in Springer's journal Animal Cognition found that hungry dogs often choose the lesser option when given two choices, suggesting a 'less is more' effect. The researchers believe this may be due to mental shortcuts that prioritize average quality over quantity.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateMar 19, 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.

101 liver cancer drug candidates pave the way to personalized medicine

A novel simulation-based approach has been used to find and evaluate new potential drugs for liver cancer, identifying 101 compounds predicted to prevent cancer growth in most patients. The researchers simulated the effect of over 3,000 antimetabolites on healthy cells to predict their toxic effects.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateMar 19, 2014

Genetic test could improve colon cancer screening

A new non-invasive genetic test detected 92% of colon cancer cases, outperforming a traditional fecal immunochemical test in asymptomatic participants. The test's high sensitivity could lead to increased screening rates and reduced deaths from colorectal cancer.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2014

Vanderbilt diabetes researchers track cells' ability to regenerate

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have found evidence that the insulin-secreting beta cells of the pancreas can regenerate. This surprising discovery suggests that understanding how regeneration occurs may lead to new treatments for the rising tide of diabetes, affecting over 8% of the US population.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 19, 2014

Elsevier launches open-access journal: Internet Interventions

Internet Interventions, a new OA journal from Elsevier, publishes high-quality research on the application of information technology in mental and behavioral healthcare. The journal aims to fill the gap in dedicated peer-reviewed scientific journals for e-mental health research.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternet Interventions·DateMar 19, 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.

NASA's Van Allen Probes reveal zebra stripes in space

The Van Allen Probes have discovered persistent zebra stripes in the inner radiation belt surrounding Earth, caused by the planet's slow rotation. This structure is produced by the oscillating electric field generated by Earth's magnetic field axis.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateMar 19, 2014

Past HIV vaccine trials reveal new path to success

Researchers have identified a subclass of antibodies associated with an effective immune response to an HIV vaccine. The study provides key insights that could aid the development of new vaccines, focusing on understanding the underlying quality of the immune response.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 19, 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.

Tiny transistors for extreme environs

Researchers at the University of Utah created the smallest plasma transistors that can operate in extreme environments, including nuclear reactors. These devices have the potential to enable innovative applications such as medical X-ray imaging and real-time air quality monitoring, and could be used to control robots in nuclear reactors.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalIEEE Electron Device Letters·DateMar 19, 2014

Miscarriage clues identified in new DNA test according to researchers at Montefiore and Einstein

Researchers have developed a new DNA test that can identify chromosomal variants and abnormalities in nearly 50% of miscarriage samples. The rescue karyotyping technique allows physicians to obtain genetic information from archived tissue, providing valuable insights into the causes of miscarriage.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalReproductive Biology and Endocrinology·DateMar 19, 2014

Critical illness increases risk of psychological problems

A new study reveals that one in seven critically ill patients who received mechanical ventilation experience anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The research highlights the need for improved prevention and treatment of psychological problems in these patients.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJAMA·DateMar 19, 2014

Scientists describe gut bacteria that cause sepsis in preterm infants

Researchers characterized the gut bacteria of premature infants who developed sepsis, suggesting a new approach to early detection and prevention. Genetic matches were found between bacteria in stool samples and those in blood samples, indicating that gut bacteria are responsible for these infections.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 19, 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.

Alzheimer's prevention trial to monitor reactions to higher disease risk status

Researchers are testing whether early medical intervention can slow down progression of Alzheimer's disease before symptoms emerge. The A4 trial involves enrolling individuals at risk for Alzheimer's, who will be told of their risk status and monitored for potential adverse reactions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 19, 2014

Magnetic behavior discovery could advance nuclear fusion

Researchers from the University of Michigan and Princeton have discovered a new kind of magnetic behavior that can help make nuclear fusion reactions more efficient. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in nuclear energy, as fusion generates helium without radioactive waste.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 19, 2014

NIH grantees sharpen understanding of antibodies that may cut risk of HIV infection

Two studies found that only one subclass of V1V2-directed IgG antibodies, the IgG3 subclass, is associated with antiviral responses linked to the reduced risk of HIV infection seen in the RV144 trial. More research is needed to determine whether these antibodies protected some vaccinees from HIV infection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 19, 2014

Tracking endangered leatherback sea turtles by satellite, key habitats identified

A satellite tagging study of migrating New England leatherback turtles has greatly improved understanding of their seasonal high-use habitats, diving activity, and response to ocean features. The study found that leatherbacks prefer habitats with specific ecoregion, topography, and sea surface temperature conditions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 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.

International team of LHC and Tevatron scientists announces first joint result

Scientists from four experiments at CERN's Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and Fermilab's Tevatron combined their data to produce the first joint result on top quark mass measurement, achieving a precise world's best value of 173.34 GeV/c2. This collaboration showcases international collaboration in particle physics.

SourceDOE/Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory·DateMar 19, 2014

Research reveals true value of cover crops to farmers, environment

A study published in Agricultural Systems found that planting cover crops increases eight of eleven ecosystem services, including carbon and nitrogen retention, erosion prevention, and weed suppression. The research highlights the importance of considering temporal dynamics when assessing management system effects on ecosystem services.

SourcePenn State·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateMar 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.

Autism Speaks announces 2014 Weatherstone Predoctoral Fellows

The Autism Speaks Weatherstone program supports nine fellows in autism research, including investigating histone methylation patterns and DNA methylation in genetic disorders. The fellows will work with top mentors to advance understanding of the brain biology of autism and develop new treatments.

SourceAutism Speaks·DateMar 18, 2014

An end to animal testing for drug discovery?

Scientists have developed 'chemosynthetic livers' that can mimic human metabolism, allowing researchers to test drug safety and interactions without animal testing. The technology has already demonstrated accurate results with over 50 pharmaceutical compounds.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 18, 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.

Getting rid of bad vibrations

Researchers at Fraunhofer LBF have created a new vibration control table that combines sensors and actuators in an integrated platform. This design allows for better protection against vibrations, particularly at lower frequencies, while maintaining performance and cost-effectiveness.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 18, 2014

The precise reason for the health benefits of dark chocolate: Mystery solved

Researchers found that certain bacteria in the stomach break down dark chocolate's polyphenolic compounds into anti-inflammatory compounds. Combining dark chocolate with prebiotics and solid fruits may enhance health benefits. The study suggests a new approach to improving cardiovascular health through gut microbiome modulation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 18, 2014

New statistical models could lead to better predictions of ocean patterns

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed new statistical models to increase the accuracy of ocean forecasting. The models improved predictability of sea surface temperature extremes, wind fields, and plankton distribution, ultimately benefiting fisheries and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalOceanography·DateMar 18, 2014
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.

Pitt study challenges accepted sepsis treatment

A national randomized clinical trial led by University of Pittsburgh experts found that a structured approach to diagnose and treat sepsis did not change survival rates. The study provides strong evidence that may change the way sepsis is diagnosed and treated, with prompt recognition and treatment being key to effective care.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 18, 2014

Incentives needed to improve grain markets in India

Researchers found that grain farmers in India face regulatory barriers and lack of incentives to invest in on-farm storage, hindering market integration. Small innovations can encourage independent traders to enter the market, benefiting farmers with access to better prices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 18, 2014

Launching a botanical journal on the verge of WWI: the politics of the AJB

The American Journal of Botany celebrates its centennial anniversary, tracing the journal's founding to socio-politics, personalities, and institutions. The journal has remained at the forefront of botanical research, with F.C. Newcombe playing a crucial role in its establishment.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateMar 18, 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.

Lied-to children more likely to cheat and lie

Children who are lied to by an adult are more likely to cheat and lie themselves. The study tested 186 children ages 3 to 7 and found that those who were lied to peeked at a temptation toy nearly as much as those who weren't lied to, and were more likely to lie about it later.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateMar 18, 2014

New understanding of why chromosome errors are high in women's eggs

A new study from the University of Southampton has found that chromosome errors in women's eggs occur due to a faulty gatekeeper mechanism. The researchers discovered that this 'gatekeeper' allows cells to divide with incorrect chromosomes, leading to conditions like Down Syndrome and early pregnancy loss.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 18, 2014

Nanopores control the inner ear's ability to select sounds

Researchers at MIT discovered that tiny pores in the inner ear membrane filter sound frequencies, allowing humans to differentiate between competing sounds. The optimal pore size determines hearing sensitivity, with smaller or larger pores impairing hearing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 18, 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.

Rice study: Simple changes to homework improved student learning

A Rice University and Duke University study found that modifying homework procedures improved exam scores without changing the course curriculum. The study used cognitive science principles, including repeated retrieval practice, spacing, and immediate feedback, to develop inexpensive yet effective educational changes.

SourceRice University·JournalEducational Psychology Review·DateMar 18, 2014

Bees capable of learning feats with tasty prize in sight

Bumblebees demonstrate remarkable learning feats, including solving increasingly complex problems and sharing knowledge through social learning. Experienced bees can solve new problems, while inexperienced ones give up, showcasing scaffold learning.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateMar 18, 2014