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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 319


Page 319 of 376

Electronics based on a 2-D electron gas

Scientists have successfully created a stable two-dimensional electron gas in strontium titanate, allowing for the manipulation of its electronic properties. This breakthrough could lead to the development of novel magnetic effects and superconductivity.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2014

Hangovers do not seem to have much influence on the time to next drink

A new study investigates whether a hangover can delay or hasten subsequent drinking, finding minimal effect on the timing of drinks. Researchers suggest alternative hypotheses linking hangovers and alcoholism, such as increased risk factors for losing control over drinking.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateMar 3, 2014

Tears and fears: How do emotions change our political attitudes?

Researchers studied how anxiety affects political attitudes and found that induced anxiety leads to stronger anti-immigration beliefs. Watching thrilling videos increased physiological reactivity and influenced people's opinions, even when unrelated to politics.

SourceWiley·JournalPolitical Psychology·DateMar 3, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Exercising during pregnancy reduces excessive weight gain and associated illnesses

A randomized controlled trial found that moderate-intensity supervised exercise reduces excessive gestational weight gain and the risk of associated illnesses such as hypertension and gestational diabetes. The benefits are greatest in women of normal weight, but even overweight or obese women can benefit from exercise.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMar 3, 2014

New discovery solves problem of anti-inflammatory substance

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have successfully produced a molecule that blocks LTA4 hydrolase from producing LTB4, while maintaining the inactivation of Pro-Gly-Pro. This could lead to new hopes for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and various types of inflammatory skin diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2014

Female doctors spend more time than male doctors on parenting, household tasks, study finds

A study of 1,055 physicians found that married women with children spent 8.5 hours more on parenting and domestic activities than their male counterparts, despite accounting for a spouse's employment. The finding highlights the persistent gender differences in household labor among high-achieving female doctors.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 3, 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.

World-class orchestras judged by sight not sound

Researchers found that world-class orchestras can be accurately identified by silent video footage, but not through sound recordings. Participants scored significantly better when shown video-only clips than when played audio clips, suggesting visual cues about group dynamics and leadership play a crucial role in judgment.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateMar 3, 2014

UC research tests which nano system works best in killing cancer cells

A University of Cincinnati-led team studied four distinct magnetized nanoparticle systems to determine which one works best in delivering heat directly to cancer cells. The research found that uncoated iron-oxide nanoparticles and those coated with polyacrylic acid heated quickly to temperatures sufficient to kill breast cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 3, 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.

Separation of DNA and proteins through improved gel electrophoresis

PhD students Katarina Bengtsson and Sara Nilsson have developed a significant step toward miniaturized gel electrophoresis by replacing traditional platinum electrodes with conducting polymer materials. This advance allows for faster and more reliable medical diagnoses and DNA sequencing.

SourceLinköping University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2014

Outbursts of anger linked to greater risk of heart attacks and strokes

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that outbursts of anger can trigger heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems in the two hours immediately afterwards. The risk is particularly high for those with existing cardiovascular problems or a history of heart attack or stroke.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 3, 2014

Gut microbes spur development of bowel cancer

A study published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that gut microbes contribute to the development of intestinal tumors, leading to colorectal cancer. Disrupting gut bacteria with antibiotics prevented polyp formation in mice, suggesting a link between inflammation and tumor growth.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 3, 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.

Big stride in understanding PP1, the ubiquitous enzyme

Researchers have identified specific behavior of PP1 by analyzing binding motifs with regulatory proteins. This discovery allows them to predict interactions with a significant number of proteins without resolving their structure.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2014

Researchers propose a new way to detect the elusive graviton

Physicists Lawrence Krauss and Frank Wilczek suggest measuring minute changes in the cosmic background radiation could detect telltale effects of gravitons. They propose that gravitons exist as 'quantum fluctuations' during inflation, generating gravitational waves that affect CMB polarization.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPhysical Review D·DateMar 3, 2014

Plant extract hope for infant muscle disease

Researchers have discovered a plant pigment called quercetin that targets the mutated gene causing spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a leading genetic cause of death in children. Quercetin has been shown to improve nerve and muscle cell health in tests on zebra fish, mice, and fruit flies.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 3, 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.

Alcohol may ease the nerves that cause atrial fibrillation

A new therapy has been developed to treat atrial fibrillation by targeting misbehaving nerves that cause the condition. The therapy, which involves adding four or fewer injections of 98% ethanol to radio wave ablation, appears to be more effective than standard surgical therapies.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 3, 2014

Novel drug treatment protects primates from deadly Marburg virus

Researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of a small-molecule drug, BCX4430, in protecting nonhuman primates from the lethal Marburg virus. The drug protected cynomolgous macaques and guinea pigs from infection when administered by injection or inhalation.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2014

Myriad publishes clinical utility study for Prolaris

The PROCEDE 500 study demonstrates that the Prolaris test provides personalized risk assessment for prostate cancer patients, leading to significant changes in treatment plans. The study found a 50% reduction in surgical interventions and a 30% reduction in radiation treatment.

SourceMyriad Genetics, Inc.·JournalCurrent Medical Research and Opinion·DateMar 3, 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.

Affordable Care Act brings crucial health coverage to jail population

Under the Affordable Care Act, an estimated 4 million people who have spent time in jail will gain access to continuous health care for conditions that increase the risk of recidivism. This could lead to reduced healthcare costs and a healthier community.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 3, 2014

Experts call for prison health improvements

The article highlights the need for improved prison healthcare, citing that over 95% of prisoners will return to the community with significant health burdens. Experts recommend alternatives to imprisonment, improved oversight, and a 'risk-needs-responsivity' model to address chronic medical conditions and substance abuse after release.

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 3, 2014

Amazon's canopy chemistry is a patchwork quilt

Scientists discovered that Amazonian canopy trees have evolved unique chemical portfolios to optimize growth in different soils and elevations. The study found that these communities are organized into a large mosaic controlled by geological factors, providing insights into how forests assembled over evolutionary time.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2014

Virtual bees help to unravel complex causes of colony decline

A new computer model, BEEHAVE, simulates the life of a honey bee colony over several years, investigating the losses of honeybee colonies and identifying key factors affecting their health. The model shows that food availability, mite infestation, and disease are critical to maintaining healthy hives.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 3, 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.

How ACA affects vulnerable Americans living with HIV/AIDS

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has a profound impact on vulnerable Americans living with HIV/AIDS, significantly reducing the transmission of the disease and improving treatment outcomes. Early treatment initiation is crucial in preventing new cases and mortality, with estimated cost savings of $80 billion from 1996 to 2009.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 3, 2014

Herbal cannabis not recommended for rheumatology patients

Patients with rheumatic conditions are turning to herbal cannabis for symptom relief, but medical evidence is lacking. The study advises healthcare providers to discourage patients from using this drug as therapy due to potential harm and availability of other therapies.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateMar 3, 2014

Relativity shakes a magnet

Researchers from Mainz University demonstrated a new physical phenomenon that manipulates magnet states using electric signals. This breakthrough combines the merits of charge-based and spin-based devices, paving the way for new generation memory devices.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 3, 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.

People with sleep apnea may be at higher risk of pneumonia

A large cohort study found that people with sleep apnea are more likely to develop pneumonia, especially those with severe symptoms and comorbidities. The study suggests that increased risk of aspirating contents or liquid from the throat may be a key factor in this association.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 3, 2014

Homing in on cancer with a comprehensive measurement method

Researchers developed a comprehensive measurement method to visualize tumor cells and their interactions, providing insights into the heterogeneity of tumors. The new technique can simultaneously record 32 biomarkers and has the potential to pinpoint weak points in the control system, leading to more effective therapeutic approaches.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 3, 2014

Opioid prescribing patterns examined in related research letter, study

Research examining opioid painkiller use reveals that individuals initially obtain medications from friends and relatives, but as usage increases, prescriptions from physicians become a common source. The study emphasizes the importance of judicious prescribing practices to curb serious health issues.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 3, 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.

Europe is joining forces against neglected parasitic diseases

The A-PARADDISE consortium aims to develop new drugs against four parasites, including schistosomiasis and malaria, which cause over one million deaths annually. Researchers will use histone-modifying enzymes as a target for new treatments, with the goal of paving the way for clinical trials.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·DateMar 3, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for March 3, 2014

A study of high-achieving young physician-researchers reveals pronounced gender differences in domestic activities among those married with children. Additionally, single-patient trials may help determine statin tolerability, while a US survey reports 2.7 million living with chronic Hep C virus.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 3, 2014

JCI online ahead of print table of contents for March 3, 2014

Research published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that DLC1 suppresses breast cancer bone metastasis by inhibiting PTHLH production and regulating TGF-\u00b1 signaling. Clinical samples also show a correlation between reduced DLC1, elevated PTHLH, and bone metastasis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 3, 2014

Rats, frosting helping find genetic causes of binge-eating

A study by Michigan State University researchers used rats and vanilla frosting to identify genetic factors contributing to binge eating. The Sprague-Dawley rat strain was found to be prone to binge eating, narrowing the scope of possible genes involved in the disorder.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateMar 3, 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.

New approach to breast reconstruction surgery reduces opioid painkiller use

A new approach to breast reconstruction surgery, known as an enhanced recovery pathway, has been shown to reduce opioid painkiller use in patients by 50% and decrease hospital stays by a day on average. The method includes preoperative analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, and resuming food and walking soon after surgery.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateMar 3, 2014

Muscle-controlling neurons know when they mess up, according to Penn research

A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has made a groundbreaking discovery about how climbing fibers provide feedback to Purkinje cells, allowing them to detect legitimate error signals amidst random firing. This knowledge will be fundamental to future studies of fine motor control and learning.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 3, 2014

Mount Sinai study points to new biological mechanisms, treatment paradigm for kidney disease

Researchers discovered abnormal molecular signaling pathways that promote chronic kidney disease progression, targeting endothelial mitochondrial oxidative stress and glomerular filtration barrier. New therapeutic targets may prevent or reverse disease, providing hope for millions of Americans affected by kidney disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 3, 2014

Immune system-based therapy produces lasting remissions in melanoma patients

A new study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Johns Hopkins University found that an immune system-based therapy called nivolumab can produce lasting remissions in melanoma patients, with some patients remaining alive after two years without treatment. The therapy has been shown to block PD-1, a protein that restrains the immune syst...

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 3, 2014

Increased intake of fish can boost good cholesterol levels

A recent study at the University of Eastern Finland found that increasing fatty fish intake can increase large HDL particles in the blood, which protect against cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption of fish, especially fatty fish like salmon and rainbow trout, may help improve lipid metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 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.

Every step you take

Researchers have identified two intermediate steps in water oxidation reactions using an Earth-abundant solid catalyst, cobalt oxide. This discovery provides a better understanding of the individual events in the four-electron cycle and enables the design of improvements to boost efficiency.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 3, 2014

Liver metabolism study could help patients awaiting transplants

A Rice University-led team of researchers found that liver cells up-regulate glycolytic pathway to produce more energy in response to disease, leading to net gain in metabolic output. The study suggests new treatments to delay liver failure by boosting glycolytic energy production.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Herpetology·DateMar 3, 2014

Postcode lottery for race relations

Researchers found that levels of racial prejudice among white people drop significantly when they live in ethnically mixed communities. Positive contact between people belonging to different ethnic groups leads to more tolerant societies overall.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2014

CWRU wins $1.9 million grant to lead artificial platelet study

Researchers aim to create artificial platelets that can stick to injury sites and signal natural platelets to home in on them, offering a potential solution to bleeding disorders. The technology has broad applications in stanching bleeding and detecting diseases.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateMar 3, 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.

Yeast model reveals Alzheimer's drug candidate and its mechanism of action

A yeast model of Alzheimer's disease has identified a drug candidate, clioquinol, that reduces amyloid-β levels by 90% and restores cellular protein-trafficking. The mechanism of action involves chelating copper, which makes Aβ more toxic.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2014

Transparent, color solar cells fuse energy, beauty

Researchers at the University of Michigan have created semi-transparent, colored photovoltaics that can generate electricity while maintaining their color. The cells are 10 times thinner than traditional solar cells and have a nearly 100% quantum efficiency, making them suitable for use indoors and in densely populated cities.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 3, 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.

NIH team identifies new genetic syndrome

Researchers have identified a new genetic syndrome characterized by severe allergy, immune deficiency, autoimmunity, and motor neurocognitive impairment. The syndrome is caused by mutations in the PGM3 gene, leading to underactive protein production and glycosylation defects.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMar 3, 2014