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Science News Archive 2014 - Page 58


Page 58 of 376

Preclinical oncology coursework could help with practitioner shortage

A study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that preclinical oncology courses increased students' interest in specializing in oncology and empathy for cancer patients. The research suggests a need for medical schools to include such curriculum to develop communication skills and sensitivity towards death and dying.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateNov 3, 2014

NASA lining up ICESat-2's laser-catching telescope

The ICESat-2 satellite will measure the elevation of Earth from space to track changes in ice-covered poles, forests and ocean surfaces. The Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System (ATLAS) instrument will time how long light travels from the satellite's lasers to Earth's surface.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 3, 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.

Smoking is a pain in the back

A Northwestern University study found that smokers are three times more likely to develop chronic back pain and that quitting the habit may reduce vulnerability to this condition. The research also identified a key brain region involved in addictive behavior and motivated learning.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateNov 3, 2014

Climate change: Limiting short-lived pollutants cannot buy time on CO2 mitigation

A new integrated study suggests that targeting emissions of non-CO2 gases and air pollutants may not produce the desired long-term climate change benefits. The research highlights the importance of considering linkages between short-lived climate forcers and CO2 in climate stabilization scenarios, finding that near-term action on short...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 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.

NYU study points to perception divide in abortion: Whom we think we know

A New York University study reveals a significant perception divide on the abortion issue, where Americans who oppose abortion are less likely to hear about their friends or family members having had an abortion. This disparity affects public opinion and may contribute to the relative stability of opinions on abortion over time.

SourceNew York University·JournalSociological Science·DateNov 3, 2014

Obesity a liability in cancer immunotherapy

A recent study published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine found that obesity can lead to lethal inflammation in response to certain anti-cancer therapies. This suggests that preclinical studies on young mice may not accurately predict outcomes in older patients, who are more likely to be overweight and develop cancer.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 3, 2014

Variations in ice sheet height influence global climate

Researchers found that changing ice sheet height affects global climate differently from freshwater influx alone, with warming sea surfaces and regional changes observed. The study suggests that the role of topography in Heinrich events may be more significant than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 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.

The effects of poor eating habits persist even after diet is improved

Research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that poor eating habits alter gene expression, leading to persistent effects on the immune system and increased risk of cardiovascular disorders. Even after successful treatment of atherosclerosis, the immune system's function remains altered.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 3, 2014

Same pieces, different picture

Scientists have obtained the first high-resolution structure of HIV's immature form, revealing a surprising arrangement of its building blocks. This breakthrough enables researchers to probe further into potential drug targets and understand how mutations influence virus assembly.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateNov 3, 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.

NASA sees Super Typhoon Nuri's eye open in 2 days

NASA's Aqua satellite observed Super Typhoon Nuri strengthen into a Category 5 hurricane over two days, with its eye developing on November 3. The storm's maximum sustained winds reached 155 knots, causing significant damage and disruption in the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 3, 2014

New study shows women have higher risk of injury than men

A new study published in Addiction found that women are at a higher risk of injury from acute alcohol consumption compared to men. The risk increases more rapidly for women, becoming twice the risk to men around 15 drinks and three times the risk around 30 drinks.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateNov 3, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Texas A&M awarded grant to help reduce obesity, chronic disease

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service has received a $783,000 grant to support national efforts to reduce chronic diseases and promote healthier lifestyles. The program will focus on improving access to healthy foods and safe locations for physical activity in Hidalgo County.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateNov 3, 2014

Carnegie Mellon's Anna V. Fisher wins James S. McDonnell Foundation award

Anna V. Fisher, Carnegie Mellon University associate professor of psychology, receives a $600,000 award to study the emergence of higher-order cognition in children. Her work explores how individual differences and developmental changes contribute to children's ability to make inferences based on non-obvious commonalities.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateNov 3, 2014

Increased prevalence in autism diagnoses linked to reporting in Denmark

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that changes in reporting practices in Denmark contributed significantly to the rise in autism diagnoses. The researchers analyzed data from 677,915 children born between 1980 and 1991, concluding that 60% of the increase was due to changes in diagnostic criteria and the inclusion of outpatien...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 3, 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.

Even when you're older you need chaperones

Researchers found that the quality of protective molecular chaperones declines dramatically with age, accelerating decline in those with neurodegenerative diseases. A subnetwork of 28 critical genes provides a basis for biomarkers and new therapeutics to prevent protein damage and cell dysfunction.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 3, 2014

Compared with apes, people's gut bacteria lack diversity, study finds

Researchers found that humans have less diverse gut microbiomes than African apes, with a possible link to modern diets and lifestyle changes. The rate of change in microbial diversity accelerated in humans from some parts of the world, potentially leading to negative health effects.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2014

Berkeley Lab scientists ID new driver behind Arctic warming

Researchers discovered that open oceans are less efficient at emitting far-infrared energy than sea ice, leading to warmer oceans and melting sea ice. This phenomenon contributes significantly to the polar climate's warming trend, with simulations predicting a 2-degree Celsius increase in the Arctic climate after just 25 years.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2014

Most mental health disorders not increasing in children and youth: Large Canadian study

A large Canadian study published in CMAJ found that symptoms of mental illness in children and adolescents are not increasing, contrary to popular media perceptions. The study suggests a decline in depression and anxiety, as well as suicidal behavior among youth, while hyperactivity increased in younger age groups.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 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.

NSAIDs prevent colon cancer by inducing death of intestinal stem cells that have mutation

NSAIDs protect against colorectal cancer by inducing cell suicide pathways in intestinal stem cells carrying a mutated gene. The research team found that NSAIDs activate the so-called death receptor pathway, selectively triggering a suicide program in dysfunctional cells. This mechanism could help design new drugs to prevent colon cancer.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2014

Inhaled Ebola vaccine may offer long-term protection from virus

A non-injectable vaccine has been shown to provide long-term protection for non-human primates against the Ebola virus. The breathable vaccine overcomes logistical obstacles of storing and administering injectable vaccines in affected areas.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateNov 3, 2014

What is a species? It could be difficult to reply if you work with aphids

Recent study published in Comparative Cytogenetics reveals that green peach aphids (Myzus persicae) can have unusual karyotypes due to chromosomal fragmentations and rearrangements. This challenges the conventional view of species stability, as observed karyotype variations often result in reduced fertility or sterility.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalComparative Cytogenetics·DateNov 3, 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.

Forests lose essential nitrogen in surprising way, find scientists

Researchers found that patches of waterlogged soil in forested watersheds act as hotspots for microbial activity, removing nitrogen from groundwater and returning it to the atmosphere. This process, known as denitrification, can improve water quality by reducing nitrate levels in streams.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2014

Research partnership is key to biodiversity conservation

A new policy paper emphasizes the importance of collaboration between scientists and policymakers for effective biodiversity conservation. The paper highlights the HCV approach's potential in protecting tropical biodiversity through sustainable land management schemes.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalConservation Letters·DateNov 3, 2014

Dance choreography improves girls' computational skills

Researchers at Clemson University found that dance choreography enhances girls' computational thinking skills by blending movement and computer programming. The Virtual Environment Interactions (VEnvI) software and curriculum engages fifth- and sixth-grade girls in coding and computational thinking.

SourceClemson University·DateNov 3, 2014

Beliefs about the soul and afterlife that we acquire as children stick with us

A Rutgers study of 348 undergraduate students found that childhood beliefs about the soul and afterlife remain strong and often contradict adult beliefs. Implicit beliefs, gauged using the Implicit Association Test, were closely tied to childhood memories, regardless of religious affiliation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·DateNov 3, 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.

New research reveals what to discuss near life's end

A study published in CMAJ found that hospitalized patients and families prioritize discussing preferences for care, patient values, prognosis of illness, fears or concerns, and additional questions regarding care. However, these elements are infrequently discussed, leading to low concordance between preferred and prescribed goals of care.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 3, 2014

Study reveals startling decline in European birds

Bird populations across Europe have experienced sharp declines, with the majority of losses from the most common species. However, some less common birds have shown increases in recent years due to conservation efforts and legal protection. The study highlights the need for greater efforts to halt these continent-wide declines.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 2, 2014

Ultracold disappearing act

In a new study published in Nature Physics, Rice University physicists observed ultracold atomic collisions producing gaps between colliding solitons. This phenomenon challenges the expected behavior of solitons, which are waves that do not diminish or change shape as they move through space.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 2, 2014

Getting more out of nature: Genetic toolkit finds new maximum for crop yields

Scientists have discovered a set of gene variations that can increase fruit production in tomatoes and potentially other flowering plants, including staple crops like soybeans. By fine-tuning the balance between florigen and anti-florigen, plant breeders can customize genetic variations to maximize yield gains.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 2, 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.

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Weight loss surgery substantially reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

A new study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that bariatric surgery can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by around 80% in obese people compared to standard care. This significant reduction was observed even after controlling for other important factors such as smoking and high blood pressure.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateNov 2, 2014

Two photons strongly coupled by glass fiber

Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have successfully created a strong interaction between two single photons using an ultra-thin glass fiber. This technique enables the creation of maximally entangled photon states required in quantum teleportation and light-transistors for quantum computing.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 2, 2014

Improving imaging of cancerous tissues by reversing time

Washington University engineers apply a novel time-reversal technology to track movement inside the body's tissues, improving imaging of cancerous tissues and developing potential treatments. By using TRAP optical focusing, they can focus light on moving targets, allowing for sharper images even several centimeters into the skin.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 2, 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.

The 'valley of death' facing physics start-ups

Despite the grueling challenge, physicists can overcome the 'valley of death' by recruiting expertise and committing to projects. Boston-based company MC10's success highlights the rewards of perseverance.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateNov 2, 2014

Mutant models

Researchers develop mathematical toolkit that analyzes cancer mutation data, revealing common and rare mutations have equal impact on tumor behavior. The study also finds that mutations cause subtle, precise alterations in protein communication pathways, enabling targeted therapies.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 2, 2014

Study: 'Wimpy' antibody protects against kidney disease in mice

A study published in Nature reveals that a 'wimpy' mouse antibody may actually play a key role in protecting against kidney disease. The researchers found that the antibody, which is abundant in mice and thought to offer poor assistance in fighting infections, can prevent the development of kidney disease when injected into genetically...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 2014

Wrangling data flood to manage the health of streams

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new database and algorithm to analyze upstream data, enabling the management of stream health across large landscapes. The system allows for rapid analysis of 2.6 million stream reaches in the contiguous United States, reducing analysis time from weeks to just five hours.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalSpringerPlus·DateNov 2, 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.

More penalties on the way for hospitals that treat the poor? New U-M study suggests so

A new University of Michigan analysis shows that penalties for chronic lung disease will disproportionately affect hospitals caring for poor and minority patients. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address socioeconomic factors contributing to readmissions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 1, 2014

Step towards blood test for many cancer types

A comprehensive review of 19,000 scientific papers identified more than 800 cancer-specific biomarkers that could lead to a single blood test for early detection of many types of cancer. The study aims to develop a screening test from a single blood sample for multiple cancer types.

SourceCancer Research UK·DateNov 1, 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.

Virtual reality promises new applications for sexual offending

Researchers at the University of Montreal are exploring virtual reality as a tool to better gauge sex offenders' reactions and assess therapeutic progress. By testing virtual reality protocols, they aim to validate theories explaining why offenders act on their impulses.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateNov 1, 2014