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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 330


Page 330 of 376

Gecko-inspired adhesion: Self-cleaning and reliable

Researchers have developed a gecko-inspired adhesive tape that not only adheres reliably to surfaces like geckos but also features self-cleaning properties. This breakthrough enables the opening and closing of food packagings or bandages multiple times without significant adhesion loss.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 19, 2014

IU mathematician receives $2.7 million to establish center in Russia

Vladimir Touraev, a renowned expert in low-dimensional topology, has been awarded $2.7 million by the Russian government to establish a scientific center in Chelyabinsk, Russia. The center will facilitate collaboration between IU scientists and their counterparts in Russia, promoting international research opportunities.

SourceIndiana University·DateFeb 19, 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.

Antidepressant holds promise in treating Alzheimer's agitation

A multi-site US-Canada study found that antidepressant citalopram significantly relieved symptoms of agitation in Alzheimer's patients and reduced caregivers' stress levels. The study involved 186 patients with Alzheimer's disease who showed no relief from non-medication therapies or antipsychotic drugs.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 19, 2014

Dreams, deja vu and delusions caused by faulty 'reality testing'

Researchers discovered a common link between dreams and delusions - faulty reality testing in the brain's higher order cognitive systems. This faulty 'reality testing' leads to persistent thoughts and actions that are not based on reality, causing immense mental health difficulties.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 19, 2014

Which asthma drugs, dosages work best for African Americans?

The trial will examine effectiveness of different doses of inhaled corticosteroids with or without long-acting beta agonists in 500 African American patients aged 5 and older. Researchers aim to identify the most effective combination of medications and dosing regimens to manage asthma symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateFeb 19, 2014

'Beautiful but sad' music can help people feel better

A study by University of Kent psychologists found that listening to 'sad' music with high aesthetic value directly predicts mood enhancement. Music selection strategies were linked to individual expectations and emotions.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalPsychology of Music·DateFeb 19, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Could metabolism play a role in epilepsy?

Researchers have identified metformin as a potential treatment for epilepsy by reducing the intensity of seizures. The study used fruit fly movement to analyze the effects of dietary modifications on seizure susceptibility. Dr. Kuebler's lab developed a low-cost, video-based method to investigate metabolic causes of seizures.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateFeb 19, 2014

Does more stress equal more headaches?

A new study reveals that higher stress levels are associated with an increase in the number of headaches per month. The study found that for those with tension-type headache, a 10-point increase in stress was linked to a 6.3% rise in headache days per month.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 19, 2014

Reasons for becoming self-employed in later life vary by gender, culture

Researchers found that older male workers are more likely to become self-employed due to a willingness to take risks and access to financial resources. In contrast, female workers may be forced into self-employment due to financial necessity, having fewer economic resources and less access to pensions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalGreener Journal of Sociology and Social Welfare·DateFeb 19, 2014

NuSTAR helps untangle how stars explode

A team of astrophysicists has created the first-ever map of radioactive material in a supernova remnant using NuSTAR. The findings suggest that massive dying stars likely rip apart with distorted shock waves, ending their lives.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 19, 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.

A forgotten model of the universe

A 1931 paper by Albert Einstein featuring a dynamic model of the universe has been re-examined, highlighting numerical errors and questionable calculations. The model, which includes a contraction phase, contrasts with the widely known expanding Einstein-de Sitter model.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateFeb 19, 2014

An innovative approach to promote water use efficiency

A UC Riverside study suggests that increasing block-rate water budgets can effectively promote water use efficiency by sending a price signal to customers regarding water scarcity. The study found that average household water use decreased by 15% under the new pricing structure, while overall prices only rose 4%.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalLand Economics·DateFeb 19, 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.

Whole genome analysis, stat

A University of Chicago-based team used Beagle, a powerful supercomputer, to analyze genomic data, significantly accelerating speed and accuracy. The findings have immediate medical applications, enabling rapid diagnosis and treatment of genetic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalBioinformatics·DateFeb 19, 2014

Food packaging chemicals may be harmful to human health over long term

Environmental scientists warn that synthetic food packaging chemicals can leach into foods and harm human health over the long term. The authors argue that little is known about their impact on chronic conditions like cancer, obesity, and neurological disorders.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateFeb 19, 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.

Managed honeybees linked to new diseases in wild bees

Research finds that common honeybee diseases can infect and spread to wild bumblebees, potentially causing decline. The study suggests that managing honeybees is crucial for supporting wild bee populations and reducing the impact of emerging diseases.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalNature·DateFeb 19, 2014

Statistics research could build consensus around climate predictions

A new statistical hierarchical Bayesian model consolidates climate change information from various sources, including observation-based data sets and climate models. The approach provides an ensemble estimate of current and future climate along with a measure of uncertainty.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM/ASA Journal on Uncertainty Quantification·DateFeb 19, 2014

Newly developed chemical restores light perception to blind mice

A new compound called DENAQ has been found to restore light perception in blind mice by conferring sensitivity on ganglion cells. The treatment, which requires only a single injection, shows promise as a potential vision-restoring drug, but further testing is needed for safety and efficacy

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 19, 2014

An essential step toward printing living tissues

Researchers at Harvard University's Wyss Institute have developed a bioprinting method to create intricately patterned 3D tissue constructs with multiple cell types and tiny blood vessels. The breakthrough enables the creation of thicker, functional tissues that can be used for drug testing and potentially replaced damaged human tissue.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 19, 2014

Ants build raft to escape flood, protect queen

Researchers observed that worker ants and broods were extremely resistant to submersion during floods. The ants protected the queen by placing her in the center of the raft, with workers using the brood's buoyancy and their own recovery ability to minimize injury or death.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 19, 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.

Chemical leak in W.Va. shows gaps in research, policy

A chemical leak in Charleston, W.Va., highlights the shortcomings of policies and research on thousands of chemicals. The incident led to 300,000 residents relying on bottled water due to the lack of complete toxicology studies on the leaked chemical, MCHM.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 19, 2014

Addicted to tanning?

A study by Bowling Green State University researchers suggests a correlation between excessive tanning and mental health symptoms such as OCD and BDD. The findings indicate that prevention messages may not be effective for those with these conditions, highlighting the need for further assessment and treatment.

SourceBowling Green State University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateFeb 19, 2014

Better cache management could improve chip performance, cut energy use

Researchers at MIT and UConn developed new caching strategies that significantly improved chip performance while reducing energy consumption. The new approaches address the challenges of managing data access and communication between cores, resulting in faster execution times and reduced power usage.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 19, 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.

New sitting risk: Disability after 60

A new Northwestern University study finds that excessive sitting time is a major risk factor for disability in people over 60. Sedentary behavior is almost as strong a risk factor as lack of moderate exercise.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateFeb 19, 2014

Clutter cutter

Researchers created computer models using PySB framework to explore biochemical processes driving cancer growth. The models aim to identify what goes wrong in cancer cells' self-destruction signals, potentially leading to novel therapies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 19, 2014

RXTE reveals the cloudy cores of active galaxies

Astronomers using data from NASA's RXTE satellite discovered a dozen cloud events where gas clouds moved across the line of sight, dimming X-ray light produced by supermassive black holes in active galaxies. The study triples previous cloud event counts and provides new insights into the environments around supermassive black holes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 19, 2014

Research prevents zoonotic feline tularemia by finding influential geospatial factors

A Kansas State University epidemiologist has found that climate, physical environment, and socio-ecologic conditions contribute to tularemia infections among domestic cats. The study identified newly urbanized areas, residential locations surrounded by grassland, and high-humidity environments as key factors in the disease's prevalence.

SourceKansas State University·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateFeb 19, 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.

SDSC team develops multi-scale simulation software for chemistry research

Researchers at SDSC developed software for multi-scale QM/MM simulations, expanding types of simulations that scientists can use to design new drugs and chemicals. The software integrates with AMBER molecular simulation package, reaching a large user base.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Computational Chemistry·DateFeb 19, 2014

Chronic pain relief more likely when psychological science involved

A comprehensive review by the American Psychological Association highlights psychologists' expertise in addressing chronic pain. Successful treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, and hypnosis, which offer more relief than prescription drugs or surgery.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateFeb 19, 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.

Springer to publish Journal of Nephrology

The Italian Society of Nephrology and Springer are joining forces to promote renal diseases research. The new partnership aims to increase the quality and visibility of the Journal of Nephrology.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Nephrology·DateFeb 19, 2014

Study shows in vivo endomicroscopy improves detection of Barrett's esophagus-related neoplasia

A new study shows that in vivo endomicroscopy improves the detection of Barrett's esophagus-related neoplasia when used with high-definition white-light endoscopy, reducing unnecessary mucosal biopsies and potentially changing patient care. The approach involves real-time endoscopic diagnosis and imaging-guided therapy.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateFeb 19, 2014

Kinetic battery chargers get a boost

Researchers have developed a kinetic energy harvester that captures the energy generated by human movements and converts it into electrical energy. The system uses a flexible cantilever to bend with body movements, producing a small but significant voltage that can be stored in a capacitor.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Biomechatronics and Biomedical Robotics·DateFeb 19, 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.

Kessler Foundation researchers study impact of head movement on fMRI data

Researchers found that discarding data from subjects with multiple sclerosis who exhibit significant head movement during fMRI may bias sampling away from those with lower cognitive ability. This could lead to skewed results if not addressed by correcting for motion or recruiting a diverse range of participants.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateFeb 19, 2014

Cell therapy shows remarkable ability to eradicate cancer in clinical study

Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center reported remarkable results from a clinical study using genetically modified T cells to treat advanced leukemia. The treatment achieved a 88% complete remission rate, exceeding the response rate of salvage chemotherapy alone.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 19, 2014

A step closer to a photonic future

Researchers demonstrate low-power photonic devices fabricated using standard chip-making processes, achieving energy efficiencies competitive with electronics. The advancements enable the commercialization of photonic technology, accelerating its adoption in computing and communication applications.

SourceOptica·DateFeb 19, 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.

Gene sequencing project discovers common driver of a childhood brain tumor

Researchers have identified a genetic alteration in the NF-κB pathway that drives tumor development and provides clues for treating ependymoma, a devastating childhood brain cancer. The study offers new insights into how abnormal proteins can lead to cancer and may aid efforts to understand and intervene against other cancers.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature·DateFeb 19, 2014

Study reveals workings of working memory

Researchers at Brown University discovered that working memory uses similar brain circuits to those involved in planning motion. They found that the caudate and dorsal anterior premotor cortex contribute to output gating, a crucial process for selecting from working memory. The study's findings provide insight into how the brain effici...

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 19, 2014

Clouds seen circling supermassive black holes

Astronomers have observed huge clouds of gas circling supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies, revealing a previously unknown phenomenon. These clouds can intermittently dim X-ray sources, providing evidence for their existence and confirming predictions made by recent models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 19, 2014

U of I study: Couples, pay attention to your relationship work ethic

A University of Illinois study recommends that couples adopt a relationship work ethic that equals or surpasses their professional one, focusing on active listening and quality time. The research found that couples who attended an Intentional Harmony workshop improved significantly in managing work-partner role conflict and reported re...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalMarriage & Family Review·DateFeb 19, 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.

Joseph Glorioso, Ph.D., receives Pioneer Award

Joseph C. Glorioso, III, PhD received a Pioneer Award from Human Gene Therapy for his leadership and accomplishments in developing herpes viruses as efficient vectors for delivering therapeutic genes into cells. His research has shown promise for treating complex genetic and acquired diseases, including brain degeneration and cancer.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateFeb 19, 2014

UK failing to harness its bioenergy potential

New research suggests the UK can produce up to 44% of its energy needs from biomass sources like household waste and agricultural residues. The study highlights the potential for biomass resources to contribute significantly to the country's renewable energy targets.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalEnergy Policy·DateFeb 19, 2014

Targeted treatment for ovarian cancer discovered

Researchers have developed a biologic drug that prevents the production of HE4 protein, allowing ovarian cancer cells to grow aggressively and resist chemotherapy. The novel biologic has shown promising results in cell and animal models, increasing the potential for improved treatment and survival rates for women with ovarian cancer.

SourceCare New England·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 19, 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.

The nose knows in asthma

Researchers have discovered that genes expressed in the nasal passages can serve as accurate proxies for those expressed deeper in the lungs. This breakthrough allows for less invasive and more affordable genetic profiling of asthmatic patients, potentially leading to improved treatment options and better understanding of the disease.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 19, 2014

How stick insects honed friction to grip without sticking

Research reveals stick insects have developed a way to generate massive friction when walking upright through a hierarchy of grip with the slightest pressure, allowing them to grip but not stick. The insect's hairy friction pads employ three main tricks to increase contact area under pressure, creating a scale or hierarchy of grip.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 19, 2014