Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2014 - Page 324


Page 324 of 376

Low birth weight reduces ability to metabolize drugs

Research from Oregon State University finds that low birth weight individuals have impaired kidney function, affecting drug excretion and metabolism. This may lead to reduced effectiveness of medications in treating diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmacology·DateFeb 26, 2014

Tree branch filters water

Researchers found that pine tree sapwood can filter out more than 99% of E. coli bacteria from contaminated water, but has a particle size limit. The small-branch filtration system produced clean drinking water suitable for one person per day.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 2014

Humans have a poor memory for sound

Researchers at the University of Iowa found that humans tend to forget sounds they hear, rather than visual or tactile information. The study suggests that our brain may use separate pathways to process auditory information, and that alternative strategies like increased mental repetition may be needed to improve memory.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 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.

Over-80s often over-treated for stroke prevention

A recent study suggests that people in their 80s are often prescribed stroke-prevention medications despite low risk, leading to unnecessary side effects. Doctors must rethink common prescribing patterns to prioritize patient well-being over prevention.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEvidence-Based Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2014

Cows are smarter when raised in pairs

A new study by University of British Columbia researchers found that dairy calves learn better when housed together, adapting faster to complex farm technologies. The 'pairing calves' approach reduces learning difficulties and improves task completion rates compared to individual housing.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 2014

Antidote can deactivate new form of heparin

Researchers created a synthetic version of low-molecular-weight heparin that can be counteracted by an existing drug and cleared by the liver, not the kidneys. This new form of heparin is safer for patients with poor kidney function, reducing the risk of uncontrolled bleeding.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 26, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Hormone therapy linked to better survival after lung cancer diagnosis in women

A recent study found that female hormone therapy, particularly estrogen plus progesterone, significantly improved survival among women with non-small cell lung cancer. The combination of hormone therapy and long-term use showed the most notable improvements in median survival time.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 26, 2014

Reproductive coercion, intimate partner violence prevalent

A recent study found that reproductive coercion and co-occurring intimate partner violence are prevalent among women in this demographic. The study's results suggest that healthcare providers should address reproductive coercion with their patients, tailoring family planning discussions and recommendations accordingly.

SourceCare New England·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 26, 2014

Fox Chase researchers discover new mechanism of gene regulation

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have discovered a new mechanism of gene regulation that involves the modification of histones, leading to the activation of PARP1 and exposure of specific genes. This finding has significant implications for cancer treatment and may lead to the development of more effective therapies.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 26, 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.

Beta-catenin alters T cells in lasting and harmful ways

The study reveals that beta-catenin increases in certain types of T cells, causing chronic inflammation in the intestine and colon, leading to cancer. The researchers also found that beta-catenin signaling alters the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory T cells.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 26, 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.

Brain cell activity regulates Alzheimer's protein

New research from Washington University School of Medicine finds that increased brain cell activity boosts brain fluid levels of tau protein, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that brain cells may be secreting tau when they send signals, potentially leading to the spread of disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2014

Scientists demonstrate first contagious airborne WiFi virus

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have created a WiFi virus called 'Chameleon' that can spread rapidly between homes and businesses, evading detection by encryption and passwords. The virus exploits weaknesses in WiFi networks to propagate quickly across densely populated areas.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalEURASIP Journal on Information Security·DateFeb 25, 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.

Carbon dating uncovers forged Cubist painting

Physicists used accelerator mass spectrometry to analyze the canvas, revealing a level of radioactive carbon found in 1959, years after Léger's death. This study provides conclusive evidence that the painting is a forgery.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateFeb 25, 2014

Unhealthy attachments

The study used atomic force microscopy and surface forces apparatus to measure the strength of adhesion between healthy and diseased myelin bilayers. Researchers found that healthy myelin adsorbs proteins better, maintaining optimal insulation and nerve function.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2014

FDA approves lipodystrophy drug metreleptin

The US FDA has approved metreleptin as a treatment for generalized lipodystrophy, a condition characterized by near-complete absence of fat tissue. Leptin replacement therapy has been shown to control severe insulin resistance and lower triglyceride levels in patients with severe generalized lipodystrophy.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateFeb 25, 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.

Increasing brain acidity may reduce anxiety

An animal study suggests that activating acid-sensing ion channels called ASIC1a in the brain's emotional control center can reduce anxiety-like behavior. The findings highlight a potential new mechanism for controlling fear and anxiety, paving the way for novel therapies.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateFeb 25, 2014

Technique to create holes in graphene could improve water filters, desalination

Researchers at MIT developed a new method to create controlled-size holes in graphene sheets, enabling the production of highly selective filters for improved desalination. The graphene filters can sustain higher water flow rates than conventional membranes, making them suitable for efficient desalination and nanofiltration applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 25, 2014

3-D printer creates transformative device for heart treatment

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a 3D elastic membrane that can precisely measure temperature, mechanical strain, and pH, and deliver treatment for arrhythmia and heart attack prediction. The device has the potential to revolutionize heart treatment by providing high-definition diagnostics and therapy.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 25, 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.

Study finds 2 biodegradable mulches to be suitable polyethylene alternatives

Researchers evaluated three biodegradable plastic mulch products and found two to be suitable alternatives to traditional polyethylene mulches. BioAgri¹ and Crown 1 mulches performed well in terms of crop yield, weed suppression, and overall function, making them viable options for organic production in the Pacific Northwest.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 25, 2014

Keck Medicine of USC scientists uncover 2 micro mechanisms that regulate immune system

Researchers identify two independent regulatory mechanisms controlling the human immune response, involving protein interactions between cGAS and Beclin-1 autophagy proteins. These findings have significant implications for understanding immune regulation and potentially harnessing its power to cure disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 25, 2014

Study shows mentally ill more likely to be victims, not perpetrators, of violence

A study by North Carolina State University researchers found that nearly one-third of adults with mental illness are at risk of being victims of violence, while those who commit violence tend to do so in residential settings. The study also highlights the need for stronger public health interventions to protect individuals at risk

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 25, 2014

Mother to child HIV transmission at record low in the UK

The UK's mother to child HIV transmission rate has dropped to an all-time low of 0.46%, according to a study published in the journal AIDS. The decline is attributed to earlier initiation of antenatal combination antiretroviral therapy and increased uptake of antenatal HIV screening.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAIDS·DateFeb 25, 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.

The importance of (experimental) design

Researchers found that birds' choice of group size may be influenced by experimental design, rather than genetics. The study's conclusions are challenged due to errors such as regression to the mean and spatial fallacy.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 25, 2014

Report details multiple commercial uses of wireless sensor networks

Commercial horticulture operations are adopting wireless sensor networks to monitor and control irrigation events, leading to improved soil moisture management and enhanced crop yields. The technology has been successfully implemented at three nurseries in Georgia, showcasing its potential for widespread adoption in the industry.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 25, 2014

Real time forecast of Hurricane Sandy had track and intensity accuracy

Researchers at Penn State used a real-time convection-permitting hurricane analysis and forecasting system to accurately predict Hurricane Sandy's path, intensity, and rainfall. The system compared favorably to operational global models, showcasing its potential for improving storm prediction.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·DateFeb 25, 2014

PFC exposure may spark metabolic changes in overweight children

Overweight children exposed to higher levels of perfluorinated chemicals show early signs of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The study highlights the potential public health hazard of these industrial chemicals.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 25, 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.

Eliminating maternal mortality could extend life expectancy in reproductive ages

A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that eliminating maternal mortality worldwide would result in a gain of over 0.6 years in life expectancy. This improvement is significant, as it would take place during the most productive ages of human life, carrying non-trivial socio-economic implications.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2014

Vitamin A may help boost immune system to fight tuberculosis

Researchers at UCLA discovered that vitamin A and a specific gene assist the immune system by reducing cholesterol levels in TB-infected cells, allowing lysosomes to kill bacteria effectively. This finding may lead to new treatment approaches for tuberculosis.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 25, 2014

Discovery of a 'conductor' in muscle development

Researchers at IRCM identified a critical receptor in muscle cell fusion, which could lead to new therapies for muscular diseases like myopathies and muscular dystrophies. The discovery sheds light on the complex process of muscle development and regeneration.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2014

Tiger lily heights controlled with flurprimidol preplant bulb soaks

Researchers found that flurprimidol preplant bulb soaks effectively controlled stem elongation of 'Orange Tiger' tiger lily, making it suitable for retail sales. The study also showed that residual carryover effects of flurprimidol were not significant a year after application.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 25, 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.

Scientists twist sound with metamaterials

Researchers have created an acoustic field rotator, a device that manipulates sound waves, using metamaterials. The device can rotate sound waves in a manner similar to electromagnetic or liquid wave counterparts, which could improve the operation of medical ultrasound machines and enhance image quality.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 25, 2014

New study finds concussion-related health problems in retired football players

A new study published in Journal of Neurotrauma found that retired professional football players who suffered repeated concussions had reduced levels of growth hormone, gonadotropin, and testosterone, leading to disorders such as metabolic syndrome and impaired quality of life. The study suggests that repeat concussion may elicit pitui...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateFeb 25, 2014

Research links risky behaviors of gambling and sex

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that African-American youth who gambled before age 18 were more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behaviors, leading to unintended consequences. The research suggests a potential link between gambling and sex behaviors in this demographic.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateFeb 25, 2014

Vitamin D deficiency may compromise immune function

Researchers found a significant association between vitamin D deficiency and biomarkers for inflammation in older Irish adults. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining immune function, and low levels may compromise the body's ability to fight off infections and diseases.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 25, 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.

Stigma 'key deterrent' in accessing mental health care

A new study from King's College London reveals that mental health stigma is a major deterrent for people seeking help, with up to 75% of those with disorders not receiving treatment. The study found that fear of disclosing a mental health condition and concerns about confidentiality were common barriers.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateFeb 25, 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.

Saudi Arabian camels carry MERS virus

A nationwide survey in Saudi Arabia found that three-quarters of camels tested had evidence of MERS-CoV infection. The study established direct camel-to-human transmission is possible and likely, highlighting the need for control measures to contain the spread of the disease.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalmBio·DateFeb 25, 2014

Glycerol phenylbutyrate reduces hepatic encephalopathy events

The study found that Glycerol phenylbutyrate significantly reduced hepatic encephalopathy events, hospitalizations, and ammonia levels compared to placebo. GPB's direct ammonia-lowering agent properties suggest its therapeutic potential for patients with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateFeb 25, 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.

Psychological side-effects of anti-depressants worse than thought

A recent study published in Psychiatry Research found that nearly half of people taking anti-depressants reported experiencing psychological problems, such as suicidal feelings, sexual difficulties, and emotional numbness. The research highlights the need for better awareness and disclosure about these side-effects.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateFeb 25, 2014

UT part of $140 million White House advanced manufacturing initiative

The University of Tennessee at Knoxville is leading a national research effort focused on developing new lightweight materials for fuel-efficient cars and aircraft. The initiative aims to improve vehicle performance, safety, and energy efficiency by reducing material weight while maintaining strength.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·DateFeb 25, 2014