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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 303


Page 303 of 376

Scent of the familiar: You may linger like perfume in your dog's brain

A recent study using brain imaging found that dogs have a stronger response to the scents of familiar humans than other humans or even familiar dogs. The research suggests that dogs' brains have mental representations of their human companions that persist even when they're not present.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalBehavioural Processes·DateMar 18, 2014

Sea anemone is genetically half animal, half plant

A recent study published in Genome Research reveals that sea anemones have a genomic landscape similar to human genomes but also display regulatory mechanisms similar to plants. The team discovered 87 microRNAs in sea anemones, which exhibit hallmarks of both animal and plant microRNAs.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 18, 2014

Study finds no evidence that vitamin D supplements reduce depression

A recent systematic review of clinical trials found that vitamin D supplementation had little to no effect on depression. However, additional analyses suggested that vitamin D supplements may help patients with clinically significant depression when combined with traditional antidepressant medication.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateMar 18, 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.

Building heart tissue that beats

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and University of Sydney develop elastic hydrogel-based cardiac tissue that beats in synchrony with natural heart muscle. The breakthrough could lead to repairing damaged hearts without organ transplants, revolutionizing the treatment for millions worldwide.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 18, 2014

Planting cotton early may mean less stink bug damage

Researchers found that planting cotton in May reduced boll damage by up to 36% compared to June planting dates. Early planting avoids peak stink bug pressure during the bloom cycle, reducing the need for insecticides.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateMar 18, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fierce 2012 magnetic storm barely missed Earth

A rapid succession of coronal mass ejections sent a pulse of magnetized plasma towards Earth, potentially causing widespread disruptions to the electrical grid and disabling satellites. Fortunately, the event occurred just nine days too late, narrowly missing the planet.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 18, 2014

Indochina agricultural fires still ongoing

Crop residue burning is a common practice in Indochina for pest control and field preparation, but it also causes significant air pollution and health concerns. The ongoing agricultural fires in the region release vast amounts of smoke into the atmosphere, affecting respiratory health and environmental conditions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 18, 2014

New from Geology: Fossils, earthquakes, gold, and sea-bed landslides

New laboratory experiments reveal that turbidity currents can enter cohesive muddy seabeds without losing their shape. A major earthquake at Lake Vättern, Switzerland, occurred around 11,500 years ago, and high-grade gold mineralization is linked to fault-valve processes in Papua New Guinea. Additionally, discoveries include the Ediaca...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 18, 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.

Small step towards growing tissue in the lab

Researchers create mathematical modeling tool to analyze image data and understand cell clustering mechanisms. This breakthrough could aid in growing human tissues like liver in laboratory settings.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateMar 18, 2014

Sauder research shows why innovation takes a nosedive

A UBC study shows corporate leaders rush into new innovations without scrutiny, leading to inferior products and tragic consequences like the DC-10 airline disasters. The authors warn that history may repeat itself as Boeing's 787 Dreamliner faces competition from Airbus.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia - Sauder School of Business·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateMar 18, 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.

Study fingers chickens, quail, in spread of H7N9 influenza virus

Quail and chickens are likely sources of infection for the H7N9 influenza virus, according to a study published in the Journal of Virology. The research found that quail efficiently transmitted the virus, while other poultry species were resistant or did not become infected.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMar 18, 2014

Stem cells from muscle can repair nerve damage after injury, Pitt researchers show

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have made a groundbreaking discovery using human muscle-derived stem cells to repair damaged nerves. The study found that these stem cells could differentiate into neurons and glial support cells, leading to full regeneration of the sciatic nerve in animal models.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 18, 2014

Parents matter more than they think in how their children eat

Researchers found that parents serve their children similar portions to those they serve themselves, which can lead to unhealthy eating habits. To promote healthy eating, experts recommend paying attention to portion sizes and encouraging children to eat according to their hunger cues.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 17, 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.

Closer to detecting preeclampsia

A collaborative study has identified metabolomic biomarkers in urine and serum samples of women with preeclampsia, suggesting an early metabolic profile difference from women with normal pregnancies. The findings may lead to earlier detection and potentially prevent the disease.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2014
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

MU study uses video-game device with goal of preventing patient falls

Researchers at University of Missouri developed a motion-capture technology that can detect falls in hospital rooms with high accuracy. The system uses infrared light to create a 3D map of the room and analyzes movements to determine if a fall has occurred.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Gerontological Nursing·DateMar 17, 2014

Shale could be long-term home for problematic nuclear waste

Researchers propose using shale formations as a potential solution for storing spent nuclear fuel due to their impermeable properties. This would minimize the risk of water contamination and ensure safe storage for tens or hundreds of thousands of years.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 17, 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.

Immunologists present improved mass spectrometric method for proteomic analyses

Immunologists have developed an improved mass spectrometric method for proteomic analyses, allowing for the identification and quantification of more proteins. The new technique, called ISOQuant, eliminates the need for labeling samples, enabling direct analysis of patient samples and specific immune cells.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 17, 2014

Researchers change coercivity of material by patterning surface

By patterning the surface of nickel ferrite (NFO) thin films, researchers have reduced coercivity by 30-80%, depending on film thickness. This technique improves device performance and reduces energy use in applications like sensors, microwave devices, and antennas.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Magnetics Letters·DateMar 17, 2014

Suppressing unwanted memories reduces their unconscious influence on behavior

Researchers at the University of Cambridge and MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit have shown that suppressing unwanted memories reduces their unconscious influence on behavior. The study found that suppressing visual memories made it harder for people to later see the suppressed object compared to other recently seen objects.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.

First direct evidence of cosmic inflation

Researchers from BICEP2 collaboration announce groundbreaking discovery of cosmic inflation, providing first direct image of gravitational waves. The data also confirm a deep connection between quantum mechanics and general relativity.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateMar 17, 2014

Young women most at risk least likely to be offered HPV jab

Research reveals young women most at risk of cervical cancer are least likely to be offered and complete the HPV jab. The survey found that these women need targeted efforts to improve vaccination uptake, which was below 80% required for significant impact on cervical cancer rates.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateMar 17, 2014

Chronic sleep disturbance could trigger onset of Alzheimer's

Researchers at Temple University found that chronic sleep disturbance can trigger the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The study used a transgenic mouse model to show that sleep deprivation impairs memory and tau metabolism, leading to accelerated brain pathology.

SourceTemple University·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateMar 17, 2014

New therapeutic target identified for acute lung injury

A bacterial infection can alter a key protein in the lungs, leading to acute lung injury. Researchers have identified a therapeutic target using human lung cells and 3D modeling, proposing a biological shield to protect the protein.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 17, 2014

Innovative computer under scrutiny

Researchers confirm D-Wave uses quantum effects but are critical of its classification as a computer. The system solves optimization problems but is slower than traditional computers for most tests.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 17, 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.

COPD associated with increased risk for mild cognitive impairment

A study found that older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at a higher risk for developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), particularly in skills other than memory. Patients with COPD for over five years had the greatest risk, highlighting the importance of COPD as a risk factor for MCI.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMar 17, 2014

New reason to eat oats for heart health

Scientists have discovered that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of oat phenolic compounds, particularly avenanthramide, contribute to the heart health benefits of oats. These findings suggest that eating oats may go beyond fiber and provide additional cardio-protective effects.

SourcePollock Communications·DateMar 17, 2014

Crop intensification and organic fertilizers can be a long-term solution to perennial food shortages in Africa

Crop intensification through agroforestry can improve soil fertility, biodiversity, and water quality, increasing food production in Africa. By reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, farmers can maintain nutrient cycling, organic matter build-up, and ecosystem resilience.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·JournalCurrent Opinion in Environmental Sustainability·DateMar 17, 2014

UCLA geographers create 'easy button' to calculate river flows from space

Researchers develop new method to measure river discharge solely based on width measurements from satellite imagery, providing accurate estimates for agriculture, sanitation, and flood preparation. The approach holds promise for improving climate models and ensuring international water-sharing agreements are met.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.

Antarctic moss lives after 1,500+ years under ice

Researchers have discovered that Antarctic mosses can regenerate after 1,500 years of dormancy under the ice. This finding has significant implications for understanding polar ecosystems and climate change, as mosses play a crucial role in storing carbon in both northern and southern polar regions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 17, 2014

'Breaking bad': Insect pests in the making

A recent study from the University of California, Davis, analyzes the ovipositor and behavior of Drosophila suzukii, a fruit fly known to deposit eggs inside ripening fruit. The research highlights the potential for this pest to spread rapidly across North America.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMar 17, 2014

Follow the ant trail for drug design

A new simulation module developed at ETH Zurich uses an ant algorithm to predict the interaction of molecules with human proteins, identifying potential side effects and optimizing molecular design. The module can now design new active agents in minutes, suggesting necessary chemical synthesis steps.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 17, 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.

What's so bad about feeling happy?

Research reveals that various cultures have differing attitudes towards happiness, with some valuing it as a supreme goal while others avoid it due to superstition or fear of negative consequences. The study highlights the complexities of cultural differences in happiness aversion.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateMar 17, 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.

New research links body clocks to chronic lung diseases

Scientists at The University of Manchester discovered a rhythmic defence pathway in the lung controlled by our body clocks, essential for combating toxins and pollutants. The research found that timed administration of antioxidant compounds according to the lung clock time can increase their effectiveness and reduce side effects.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 17, 2014

Global problem of fisheries bycatch needs global solutions

A new analysis reveals the complex nature of global bycatch, highlighting the need for international cooperation to reduce ecological harm. Strategies like depth variation and turtle excluder devices have been shown to increase target catch and reduce bycatch in fisheries.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2014

Bacterial reporters that get the scoop

A new strain of E. coli bacteria has been engineered to detect and record environmental signals in the mouse gut, remembering what it 'saw' for up to a week. The approach, which uses a genetic switch from a virus, could lead to a radically new screening tool for human gut health and living diagnostics.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.

Rocky Mountain wildflower season lengthens by more than a month

A 39-year study reveals that more than two-thirds of alpine flowers have changed their blooming pattern in response to warmer climate. The bloom season has lengthened by one month, with different species responding in unexpected ways, impacting pollinating insects and migratory birds.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2014

Back to life after 1,500 years

Researchers have demonstrated that moss can come back to life and continue to grow after over 1,500 years frozen in Antarctic ice. This finding provides exciting new insight into the survival of life on Earth, with implications for the potential survival of complex life forms in permafrost or ice.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 17, 2014