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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 313


Page 313 of 376

Emerging multi-drug resistant infections lack standard definition and treatment

Researchers found significant variations in definitions and isolation procedures for multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria across hospitals. The inconsistent detection and treatment practices may hinder communication between healthcare centers, contributing to the spread of these deadly pathogens.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 7, 2014

Software analyzes apps for malicious behavior

Researchers at Saarland University have developed software to detect malicious apps in app stores, identifying potential security threats. The software analyzes code access patterns to flag suspicious behavior, with over 3,000 apps already tested.

SourceSaarland University·DateMar 7, 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.

Smartphones become 'eye-phones' with low-cost devices developed by Stanford

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed two inexpensive adapters that allow smartphones to capture high-quality images of the front and back of the eye. The adapters make it easy for anyone with minimal training to take a picture of the eye and share it securely with other health practitioners or store it i...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Mobile Technology in Medicine·DateMar 7, 2014

New guidelines employ a team approach to autism diagnosis and care

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has revised key parameters for evaluating and treating autism, emphasizing early diagnosis and a team approach to care. Researchers led by Fred Volkmar recommend a coordinated medical, psychological, and communication evaluation to differentiate between autism and other disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2014

Keck Foundation award for biomedical imaging

Angelique Louie, a UC Davis professor, has been awarded a $1 million grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation to develop novel technology for detecting gene expression in deep tissues using bioluminescent gene reporters and MRI. The project aims to facilitate noninvasive imaging for various biomedical applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMar 7, 2014

Squeezing light into metals

University of Utah engineers create microscopic structures that use light in metals to carry information, controlling electrical conductivity with an inexpensive inkjet printer. The technique could lead to rapid fabrication of superfast components and faster wireless technology.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMar 7, 2014

Bone turnover markers predict prostate cancer outcomes

Researchers found that biomarkers for bone formation and resorption predict outcomes for men with castration-resistant prostate cancer. Elevated markers also identify patients who respond to investigational drug atrasentan, enabling clinicians to match treatments and track effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 7, 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.

Danish nasal filter looks promising for allergy sufferers

A clinical study from Aarhus University finds that a newly developed Danish mini-filter, Rhinix, appears to be significantly more effective against the discomfort of seasonal hay fever than a filterless placebo. The filter reduces nasal symptoms by up to 75% and alleviates throat irritation.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMar 7, 2014

NASA satellites see double tropical trouble for Queensland, Australia

Two tropical low pressure systems, System 96P and System 98P, are developing in the Coral Sea and northern Gulf of Carpentaria, respectively. These storms have strengthened, with sustained winds reported on Willis Island, and are expected to make landfall near Queensland's eastern coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2014

Traffic-related air pollution associated with changes in right ventricular structure and function

Research associates high traffic-related air pollution exposure with increased right ventricular mass and volume, linking it to a higher risk of heart failure and cardiovascular death. The study found that participants exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide had greater right ventricular changes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 7, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

People more willing to disclose experience of mental health problems, survey finds

A national survey found that people are more likely to disclose experiences of depression and early schizophrenia, with increased recognition of symptoms and reduced stigma. The study suggests that improved knowledge and beliefs about mental health problems contribute to the increase in willingness to disclose.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalAustralian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2014

Europe's largest badger study finds rare long-distance movements

A four-year study in Ireland found that five percent of badgers traveled over 7.5km from their setts, with the longest recorded distance being 22.1km. This information is crucial for designing policies to tackle tuberculosis within cattle populations and understanding how infection is maintained and spread within badger populations.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 7, 2014

New approach to prostate cancer screening needed

A new approach to prostate cancer screening is needed, focusing on high-risk men rather than the entire population. The risk-based approach uses a computer-generated calculator that assesses factors like PSA levels, family history, and ethnicity to identify those at greatest risk.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMar 7, 2014

New theory on cause of endometriosis

A new theory proposes that epigenetic modification plays a key role in the development of endometriosis, a chronic disease affecting 1 in 10 women. The research suggests that alterations in the epigenetic landscape, rather than genetic mutations, contribute to the disease's progression.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 7, 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.

'Seeing' bodies with sound (no sight required)

Congenitally blind individuals can learn to recognize human body shapes through soundscapes, with an average of 70 hours of training required. The brain's visual cortex responds to sound patterns, allowing participants to detect posture and imitate movements.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 6, 2014

Black boys viewed as older, less innocent than whites, research finds

A new study published by the American Psychological Association found that black boys are more likely to be perceived as older and less innocent than their white peers in police encounters. Researchers tested 176 police officers and found that those who dehumanized blacks were more likely to use force against a black child.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMar 6, 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.

Hubble witnesses an asteroid mysteriously disintegrating

The Hubble Space Telescope has photographed an asteroid, P/2013 R3, breaking apart into as many as ten smaller pieces. The fragments are drifting away from each other at a leisurely 1.5 kilometers per hour, likely due to the Yarkovsky-O'Keefe-Radzievskii-Paddack effect.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 6, 2014

Why soil changes color in air

Research reveals that oxidation reaction between atmospheric iron oxide reduces soil plasticity, sensitivity, and structural yield stress. The transformation is caused by micro-structure remodeling, not inherent mineral changes, and has potential adverse effects on soil stability.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 6, 2014

UT Arlington study links BPA and breast cancer tumor growth

Researchers at UT Arlington found that exposure to BPA can increase HOTAIR expression in breast tissue and tumor cells, potentially contributing to breast cancer growth. The study's results suggest a link between BPA and tumor genesis in addition to tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalThe Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateMar 6, 2014

Nearby star's icy debris suggests 'shepherd' planet

Researchers discovered a compact cloud of poisonous gas formed by ongoing collisions among a swarm of icy bodies, suggesting an unseen planet with Saturn-like mass. The study suggests that the comet swarm could be the remnant of a crash between two Mars-sized icy planets or frozen debris trapped by the gravity of the hypothetical planet.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Crystals ripple in response to light

Scientists have observed phonon polaritons in van der Waals crystals, which can be tunable and long-lived, opening the door for innovative applications in nanoscale devices. The discovery uses infrared light to launch waves that travel across the crystal material, creating interference patterns.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Crashing comets explain surprise gas clump around young star

The ALMA observations revealed a compact clump of carbon monoxide gas in the debris disc around Beta Pictoris, which is surprising given its short lifetime. The team suggests that cometary collisions are replenishing the carbon monoxide, with one large comet collision every five minutes needed to achieve this amount.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Some people really just don't like music

Researchers identified individuals with specific musical anhedonia, a condition where people can't experience pleasure from music. They found that these individuals show no autonomic responses to music but respond to monetary rewards, suggesting different ways to access the reward system.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 6, 2014

Colored diamonds are a superconductor's best friend

Researchers have successfully used flawed but colorful diamonds as sensitive magnetometers to study high-temperature superconductors. These diamond sensors can measure tiny magnetic fields in exotic materials and even human tissue, offering a new tool to explore the physics of these poorly understood materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review B·DateMar 6, 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.

Enzyme controls transport of genomic building blocks

Researchers identified an enzyme called TLK1 that regulates the transport of histones to DNA copying hubs, crucial for maintaining normal gene function. The study found that TLK1 boosts the supply of histones at critical time points, ensuring correct chromatin architecture and cellular identity.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 6, 2014

NASA's TRMM satellite images show California soaker moved eastward

The TRMM satellite's data revealed a large low-pressure center in the Pacific Ocean moving towards California, resulting in over four inches of rain and evacuation orders. The storm then affected Arizona, New Mexico, and eventually the Ohio Valley, with precipitation and snow covering large areas of the Eastern US.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 6, 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.

Warmer temperatures push malaria to higher elevations

Researchers have found that warmer temperatures push malaria to higher elevations in highland regions of Ethiopia and Colombia, with significant consequences for densely populated areas. Climate change is expected to result in a substantial increase in malaria cases globally unless disease monitoring and control efforts are strengthened.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Study identifies gene important to breast development and breast cancer

A study at Tufts University has identified the gene TAZ as a critical regulator of breast cell development and cancer. The research team found that TAZ helps to control whether breast cells behave like basal or luminal cells, which is important in understanding and treating certain types of aggressive breast cancer.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 6, 2014

Warmer temperatures push malaria to higher elevations

Researchers found a clear signal of climate change's impact on malaria, with cases shifting to higher elevations in warmer years and back down in cooler years. Climate warming is expected to increase malaria cases in tropical highland areas, particularly in Africa and South America.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Obese adolescents not getting enough sleep?

A study found that low sleep duration in obese adolescents significantly increases their risk of cardiometabolic diseases. Researchers used physical activity monitors to measure typical patterns of physical activity and sleep, and found a strong association between sleep duration and cardiometabolic risk score.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMar 6, 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.

$4 million grant to improve asthma care for So Cal Latino youth

Researchers at San Diego State University will develop tailored asthma management strategies and community programs to improve control and minimize complications among Latino children. The project aims to address disparities in asthma care, informing a more culturally appropriate approach to treatment.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateMar 6, 2014

New center for space environmemt management announced in Australia

The Australian National University-led Cooperative Research Centre for Space Environment Management will track space debris, improve predictions of space debris orbits, and predict potential collisions in space. The center aims to reduce the rate of debris proliferation and remove debris using ground-based lasers.

SourceAustralian National University·DateMar 6, 2014

Robotic prosthesis turns drummer into a 3-armed cyborg

A robotic prosthesis has been developed for an amputee drummer, allowing him to play with unprecedented control and creativity. The device features two drumsticks, one controlled by the musician's arms and the other using electromyography sensors that respond to muscle signals.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 6, 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.

MIT team proposes storing extra rocket fuel in space for future missions

The MIT team proposes using contingency propellant from past missions to fuel future spacecraft, reducing the need for additional fuel storage. By utilizing a 'steady-state' approach and stockpiling fuel at depots in space, lunar missions can carry heavier payloads with less fuel.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·DateMar 6, 2014

Returning vets face 'warring identities' distress

A recent study explores the mental state of returning veterans, finding that many struggle with identity conflict and feel 'alien' among family and friends. The research highlights the need for broader dialogue around veteran experiences beyond diagnosable illnesses like PTSD.

SourceBrown University·JournalSociety and Mental Health·DateMar 6, 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.

Transplanted human umbilical cord blood cells improved heart function in rat model of MI

Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cells transplanted into rats with simulated myocardial infarction improved left ventricular heart function and preserved myocardial fiber structure. The study showed long-term benefits for the treated rats, suggesting a potential therapy for MIs.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateMar 6, 2014

Alzheimer's research team employs stem cells to understand disease processes and study new treatment

A team of researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital has generated stem cells from skin biopsies of living family members with a genetic predisposition to early-onset Alzheimer's. The study found that the APPV7171 mutation alters amyloid-beta protein generation, Tau protein expression, and phosphorylation, providing new insights into ...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 6, 2014

Sudden cardiac death: Genetic disease ARVC more common than hitherto assumed

A recent study reveals that the genetic disease ARVC is more widespread than initially assumed, with all known affected families sharing a common genetic origin. The mutation was first identified in Canada and has since been found in European countries including Germany, Denmark, and the USA, indicating a shared European heritage.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 6, 2014

Astronomers witness mysterious, never-before-seen disintegration of asteroid

Astronomers have witnessed the first-ever breakup of an asteroid into as many as 10 smaller pieces using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The discovery suggests that sunlight may be responsible for this type of disintegration, which is a subtle effect known as YORP torque.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 6, 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.

Listening to whispers at the water cooler

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that pay secrecy weakens employees' perception of a pay increase following performance improvement. High-performing workers are more sensitive to the lack of link between performance and pay, leading to decreased job satisfaction and increased turnover.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMar 6, 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.

Plasma plumes help shield Earth from damaging solar storms

Scientists at MIT and NASA have identified a process in the Earth's magnetosphere that reinforces its shielding effect, keeping incoming solar energy at bay. A plume of low-energy plasma particles slows magnetic reconnection, blunting the sun's effects on Earth.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Hudds researchers call for major 'de-escalation' survey within the NHS

A lack of evidence on effective de-escalation techniques has been identified by researchers, who are now calling for a randomized controlled trial to establish best methods. The NHS reports a rise in reported assaults, highlighting the need for research to identify the most successful approaches.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour·DateMar 6, 2014

Large-scale study shows power of pre-K

The study found significant positive outcomes for children enrolled in the state's universal pre-k program, with average scores above the national norm on key measures of language, literacy, and math. The results were most pronounced in key language and literacy skills, which are important precursors for later reading ability.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·DateMar 6, 2014

Extraordinary momentum and spin discovered in evanescent light waves

A team of researchers at RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science discovered that evanescent electromagnetic waves carry momentum and spin components orthogonal to the direction of wave propagation. These findings offer a unique opportunity to investigate fundamental physical features, previously hidden in usual propagating light.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 6, 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.