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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 317


Page 317 of 376

New evidence confirms link between IQ and brain cortex

A collaborative study by McGill University researchers found that cortical thickness is linked to changes in full-scale IQ, contradicting earlier assumptions. The study discovered significant increases or decreases in IQ were associated with exaggerated or normal cortical thinning, respectively.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuroImage·DateMar 4, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study examines gap in federal oversight of clinical trials

A recent study analyzed nearly 24,000 active human research clinical trials and found that 5-16% are not covered by two major federal regulations. The primary federal human subjects protections policies in the US include FDA HSP regulations and the Common Rule, which can lead to overlap trials and gap trials with varying characteristics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 4, 2014

New therapy helps to improve audio and visual perception in stroke patients

Researchers at Saarland University have developed a novel therapeutic approach called optokinetic stimulation therapy (OKS) that has been shown to improve perception of sounds and images in stroke patients. After undergoing OKS therapy, patients were able to better perceive people, objects, and spatial orientation.

SourceSaarland University·JournalNeurorehabilitation and Neural Repair·DateMar 4, 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.

Controlling protein intake may be key to a long and healthy life

Two studies suggest that low protein intake may be beneficial for longevity until old age, while high-protein diets are associated with increased cancer risk and mortality. High-quality protein with low fat and complex carbohydrates is recommended for optimal health and long life.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 4, 2014

A new study reveals the nutrition, cost and safety benefits of canned foods

A new study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine reveals that canned foods deliver on nutrition and cost, making them a high-quality option for Americans to meet their dietary needs. Canned fruits and vegetables provide great tasting, safe options, with no sacrifices in nutritional quality.

SourceFoodMinds LLC·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateMar 4, 2014

Pulling polymers leads to new insights into their mechanical behavior

Researchers at the University of Basel successfully pulled isolated molecular chains from a gold surface using atomic force microscopy. The experiment revealed the detachment force and binding energy of molecules, providing new insights into the mechanical behavior of single polymers.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2014

Exploring sexual orientation and intimate partner violence

Two studies found that homosexuals and bisexuals are more likely to be victims of intimate partner violence, with a risk compounded by childhood abuse. Non-heterosexual victims were also more likely to experience substance abuse and health issues compared to heterosexual victims.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalViolence and Victims·DateMar 4, 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.

Gene transfer optimization

A research team developed an adjuvant that optimizes lentivirus gene transfer by enhancing virus attachment to target cells, resulting in a three-fold increase in transduction rate. This improvement reduces the need for additional viruses, potentially leading to more effective treatments for genetic disorders.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 4, 2014

Physics in 3-D? That's nothing. Try 0-D

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have identified a zero-dimensional quantum dot structure that can confine electronic excitations within semiconductor nanowires. This discovery has significant implications for harnessing solar energy, creating stronger lasers, and developing more sensitive medical diagnostic devices.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 4, 2014

Warfarin for a-fib does not worsen outcomes for patients with kidney disease

A recent study found that warfarin treatment is associated with a lower risk of death, heart attack, or stroke without an increased risk of bleeding for patients with established cardiovascular disease and atrial fibrillation. The study included over 24,000 patients with kidney function measured through serum creatinine levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 4, 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.

New research seeks beneficial qualities of viruses

A multi-institutional team, led by Rachel Whitaker, studies host-viral interactions to understand how viruses can protect hosts from competitors and aid in survival. The research aims to develop a theoretical model of eco-evolutionary dynamics between viruses and microbes.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateMar 4, 2014

Children with ADHD have higher risk of teenage obesity and physical inactivity

A new study found that children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to become obese and sedentary teenagers. The research followed almost 7000 children in Finland and found those with ADHD symptoms at age eight had significantly higher odds of being obese at age 16.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 4, 2014

'Gaydar' revisited

A recent study revisits the phenomenon of 'gaydar' in women, finding that lesbians are better at detecting sexual orientation, while straight women excel at identifying emotions and thoughts. The research also highlights differences in judgments between lesbian and straight judges.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalCognition & Emotion·DateMar 4, 2014

Brandeis University researchers illuminate key structure in heart cells

Brandeis University researchers have identified the correct structure of a potassium ion channel in heart cells, challenging previous studies that suggested varying numbers of proteins were required. The findings have significant implications for understanding arrhythmias and developing effective treatments.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 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.

Not even freezing cold stops alien species in high altitudes

Research at Umeå University and University of Antwerp found that alien plants successfully penetrate alpine vegetation in subarctic mountain areas. Human transportation on roads and walking tracks facilitates their invasion. Climate warming also contributes to the success of introduced species.

SourceUmea University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 2014

What bat brains might tell us about human brains

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have discovered that a small region within the amygdala in bats is responsible for producing emotional calls and sounds. This finding may lead to new treatments for malfunctions in emotional responses, such as pathological aggression.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateMar 4, 2014

Common cancers evade detection by silencing parts of immune system cells

Johns Hopkins researchers have identified a set of genes that can be turned back on to evade immune detection in ovarian, breast, and colorectal cancer. Reversing these epigenetic changes with an FDA-approved drug allows cancer cells to become more vulnerable to immune therapy, potentially leading to more effective treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateMar 4, 2014

Next step in live-donor uterus transplant project

A team of Swedish researchers led by Professor Mats Brännström have successfully performed nine uterus transplants using live donors, a breakthrough in treating uterine infertility. The transplants involved five mother-daughter pairs and four close relatives, with no blood transfusions required during surgery.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateMar 4, 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.

Passive smoking causes irreversible damage to children's arteries

A study found that exposure to passive smoke in childhood causes direct and irreversible damage to the structure of children's arteries. Children exposed to both parents' smoking have thicker artery walls, increasing their risk of heart disease and stroke. The study supports banning smoking in cars where young people are present.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 4, 2014

Horses set to gain health benefits from stem cell advance

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute have created working nerve cells from horse stem cells, paving the way for cell therapies targeting neurological conditions. The breakthrough could also benefit horses affected by grass sickness, a previously untreatable condition.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMar 4, 2014

'Dimer molecules' aid study of exoplanet pressure, hunt for life

Astronomers have developed a new method to gauge exoplanet pressure by detecting dimer molecules. This technique may also help identify biosignatures of life in extraterrestrial atmospheres. The discovery could be made possible with future powerful telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAstrobiology·DateMar 4, 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.

NASA satellite sees Faxai hit typhoon strength

Tropical cyclone Faxai reached typhoon strength with maximum sustained winds near 65 knots/74.8 mph on March 4. The NASA Aqua satellite captured an image of the storm, showing tightly wrapped bands of thunderstorms around its center. Forecasters predict Faxai will maintain typhoon strength for a day before weakening.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 4, 2014

What makes flying snakes such gifted gliders?

A team of researchers used computer simulations to study the aerodynamics of flying snakes, discovering that whirls of wind surrounding the snake's body provide an extra boost of lift. This unique shape helps the snake glide efficiently through the air, making it a fascinating example of nature's efficient design.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 4, 2014

Researchers find protein 'switch' central to heart cell division

Scientists have discovered a molecular 'switch' that regulates heart cell division and could potentially be used to regenerate damaged heart tissue. The discovery was made by studying infant siblings with a rare heart defect, who exhibited unusual heart cell proliferation.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 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.

Meat and cheese may be as bad for you as smoking

Eating a diet rich in animal proteins during middle age may be as deadly as smoking, according to a new study. High-protein diets were linked to a dramatic rise in cancer mortality and an increased risk of early death.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 4, 2014

Predators delay pest resistance to Bt crops

Cornell research reveals that natural enemies like ladybeetles can delay pest resistance to Bt crops, reducing the need for multiple genes and refuge plants. This finding supports the use of Bt crops in agriculture while minimizing pesticide usage.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 2014

Discovery in France of the New Guinea flatworm

The New Guinea flatworm, considered one of the 100 worst invasive alien species, has been found in France for the first time. The flatworm was identified by molecular analysis and is capable of consuming European snails and other soil-dwelling species.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateMar 4, 2014

Plant extract hope for infant muscle disease

Researchers have discovered a plant-based compound that targets the root cause of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disorder causing muscle wastage and weakness in infants. Quercetin has shown promise in tests on zebra fish, mice, and fruit flies, offering a potential treatment option for early stages of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 4, 2014

New technique targets C code to spot, contain malware attacks

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a new security tool called Practical Root Exploit Containment (PREC) to detect and contain malware that attempts root exploits in Android devices. PREC targets code written in the C programming language, reducing false positives and making anomaly detection more practical.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMar 4, 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.

Cultural world heritage threatened by climate change

A new study by Ben Marzeion and Anders Levermann finds that global warming will put 136 cultural monuments at risk, including historical cities like Bruges, Naples, and Istanbul. Sea-level rise will impact not only coastal areas but also regions currently populated by millions of people, leading to the loss of culture and heritage.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 4, 2014

Sea-level rise threatens UNESCO World Heritage sites

The study found that seven per cent of the current global population would be living on land that would be below sea level if temperatures increased above pre-industrial levels by 3°C in the next 2000 years. The impact on cultural heritage sites, including iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Sydney Opera House, is severe.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 4, 2014

Suicidal ideation among US soldiers begins before enlistment

A major new study found that pre-enlistment mental disorders are a significant risk factor for suicidal ideation among US soldiers. The study, which surveyed over 975,000 Army personnel, reveals that nearly 60% of soldier suicide attempts can be traced to these conditions, with the vast majority developing them before enlistment.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 4, 2014

HPV vaccine provides significant protection against cervical abnormalities

A recent study published on bmj.com found that the HPV vaccine significantly protects against cervical abnormalities in young women. The research estimated that three doses of the vaccine provided 46% protection against high-grade cervical abnormalities and 34% protection against other cervical abnormalities.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 4, 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.

Female fertility: What's testosterone got to do with it?

A new study suggests that male hormones, such as testosterone, play an important role in female fertility and may enhance IVF success rates. The research found that male hormones promote follicle development by preventing cell death and increasing sensitivity to follicle-stimulating hormone.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2014

Does palliative chemotherapy palliate?

Research suggests that palliative chemotherapy can lead to more invasive medical procedures and a higher risk of death in intensive care units among advanced cancer patients. The findings highlight the need for clearer discussion of the harms and benefits of palliative chemotherapy at the end of life.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·DateMar 4, 2014

LA BioMed board member Dr. Richard Glassock honored

Dr. Richard Glassock, a member of LA BioMed's Board of Directors, has been awarded the 2014 Medal of Excellence for his exceptional contributions to patient care. He is recognized for his extensive research and clinical expertise in glomerular diseases and clinical nephrology.

SourceLA BioMed·DateMar 4, 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.

Military dads have to re-learn parenting after deployment

A study reveals that military fathers returning from combat deployment struggle to reconnect with their young children, who may not remember them. The researchers emphasize the need for support and resources to help these families rebuild their relationships.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalHealth & Social Work·DateMar 4, 2014

Which interventions are most effective to promote exclusive breastfeeding?

A systematic review found that prenatal and postnatal interventions, duration, and mother emotional support are critical factors in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. The study suggests that more support and interventions in the postpartum period may be necessary to achieve the international goal of exclusive breastfeeding for six months.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateMar 4, 2014

Sea turtles 'lost years' mystery starts to unravel

A team of scientists tracked 17 loggerhead turtles for 27 to 220 days, providing the first look at their early behavior and movements in the wild. The study's findings challenge previously held beliefs, suggesting that young turtles may drop out of currents into the middle of the Atlantic or the Sargasso Sea.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateMar 4, 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.

CHOP researcher finds more genetic signals linking weight and heart health risk factors

A recent study by CHOP researcher Brendan J. Keating found that higher BMI raises the risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, while another study identified genetic signals linked to central adiposity. These findings have significant implications for the obesity pandemic in the US and other countries.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 4, 2014

Plant extract offers hope for infant motor neuron therapy

Researchers have found that a plant pigment called quercetin could help prevent nerve damage associated with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a leading genetic cause of death in children. Quercetin was shown to significantly improve health of nerve and muscle cells in tests on zebrafish, flies, and mice.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 4, 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.

Gonorrhea infections start from exposure to seminal fluid

Research reveals that seminal plasma enhances bacterial movement, promoting infection; increased bacterial density on human epithelial cells also facilitate infection. More than 100 million new gonorrhea cases annually worldwide.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMar 4, 2014