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Science News Archive 2014


Page 99 of 376

Goats better than chemicals for curbing invasive marsh grass

Researchers at Duke University found that controlled grazing by goats can reduce phragmites stem density by half in three weeks. The approach also restores native plant species diversity and function, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical herbicides.

Fecal microbiota transplantation recommended for treatment of C. difficile

Fecal microbiota transplantation has been proven to be a safe and highly effective treatment for recurrent C. difficile infections, eradicating bacteria in around 90% of cases with good safety profiles. The technique is now officially recognized as an effective treatment for this difficult-to-treat infection.

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.

On the road to artificial photosynthesis

Researchers have discovered a crucial role of electronic and geometric effects in reducing carbon dioxide using gold-copper bimetallic nanoparticles. This breakthrough could lead to unprecedented improvements in electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New discovery could pave the way for spin-based computing

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a novel oxide-based magnetism that follows electrical commands, paving the way for spin-based computing. This breakthrough could lead to ultrahigh density storage and computing architectures by combining magnetic materials with semiconductors.

How the brain gains control over Tourette syndrome

A study published in Current Biology found that individuals with Tourette syndrome have elevated concentrations of GABA in a specific brain region, which may lead to improved motor control. This increase in GABA levels could provide new targets for non-drug therapies, such as brain stimulation, to help manage symptoms.

Strategic or random? How the brain chooses

Researchers at Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus found that the brain can temporarily disconnect past experiences from decision-making circuits, triggering random behavior. The team manipulated a stress hormone called norepinephrine to switch between random and strategic modes.

Putting the squeeze on quantum information

Researchers at CIFAR have developed a method to compress quantum information into fewer qubits while preserving its content. This breakthrough has significant implications for efficient quantum computing and communication.

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.

Spot on against autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammations

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism for inhibiting the immunoproteasome, a protein complex involved in autoimmune disorders such as rheumatism and multiple sclerosis. The found mechanism involves a novel compound that selectively targets and deactivates the immunoproteasome without affecting other proteasomes.

Protein controlling gut's protective force field identified

Researchers have identified a protein receptor that activates during illness, producing a sugary substance to encourage the growth of protective bacteria and create a healthy microbiota in the gut. This discovery has implications for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and vulnerable patients.

Blackout? Robots to the rescue

A team led by Nina Mahmoudian has created a tabletop model of a robot team that can bring power to places in need. The robots can link up power cords and batteries to light or set flags, operating independently to choose the shortest path and avoid obstacles.

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.

Earth's water is older than the sun

A team of scientists found that much of Earth's water originated as ices in interstellar space, predating the Sun's birth. This discovery has implications for the potential emergence of life elsewhere in the universe.

Cryptogenic strokes may find explanation in the heart

A recent Finnish study found that patients with cryptogenic strokes are more likely to have an enlarged left atrial appendage, suggesting a possible independent risk factor. The research suggests that this condition may be responsible for up to half of all cryptogenic strokes.

No sign of health or nutrition problems from GMO livestock feed, study finds

A new scientific review from UC Davis reports that genetically engineered feed has no impact on animal health and nutrition. The review analyzed nearly 30 years of studies involving over 100 billion animals, finding no differences in the nutritional makeup of meat, milk, or other food products derived from GMO-fed animals.

If trees could talk

A study by CTFS-ForestGEO reveals global change effects on forests in 24 countries with 59 monitored sites. Forests have warmed by over 1 degree F and experienced up to 30 percent changes in precipitation.

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.

How physical exercise protects the brain from stress-induced depression

Researchers found that exercise training induces changes in skeletal muscle that prevent the accumulation of a substance called kynurenine, which is associated with depressive behavior. In contrast, genetically modified mice with well-trained muscle characteristics showed no depressive symptoms despite being exposed to stress.

America's top age beat reporters chosen for journalism fellowship

The Gerontological Society of America and New America Media have selected 19 journalists to cover aging issues, including elder abuse, financial security, and mental health. The fellows will convene during the GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting and develop major aging-focused stories or series.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Risk of esophageal cancer decreases with height

Researchers found that taller individuals are less likely to develop esophageal cancer and its precursor, Barrett's esophagus. The study, which included data from 1,000 cases of esophageal cancer and twice as many cases of Barrett's esophagus, consistently demonstrated an inverse association between height and these conditions.

Experts at LSTM use modelling approach to assess the effectiveness TB diagnostics

Experts at LSTM used a novel modelling approach to project the effects of new diagnostic methods and algorithms for TB in Tanzania. The integrated model compared the costs and effectiveness of different diagnostic options, identifying Xpert MTB/RIF as a cost-effective option with the potential to reduce the national burden of TB.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Chemists recruit anthrax to deliver cancer drugs

Researchers have successfully delivered antibody mimics into cells using a disarmed version of anthrax toxin, offering a potential new approach for treating various diseases. The development demonstrates the first effective delivery of antibodies into cells, which could lead to novel drug treatments.

New scientific review of genetically engineered feeds in livestock diets

A new scientific review of genetically engineered feeds in livestock diets concludes that feeding these crops has no impact on the health or productivity of animals. The review examines nearly 30 years worth of data from over 100 billion animals, revealing comparable performance and health between GE-fed and non-GE-fed animals.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Smallest-possible diamonds form ultra-thin nanothread

Researchers at Carnegie Institution successfully produce ultra-thin diamond nanothreads, exhibiting superior strength and stiffness compared to existing nanotubes and polymer fibers. The discovery has significant potential for various applications, including advanced materials and space technology.

Researchers uncover structure of enzyme that makes plant cellulose

Purdue researchers have discovered the structure of the enzyme responsible for producing cellulose, a key breakthrough in understanding plant cell wall composition. The findings could lead to improved methods for breaking down plant materials and creating sustainable biofuels.

Dunes reveal biodiversity secrets

Researchers found that environmental filtering is the main driver of plant diversity variation along resource gradients in ancient dunes. The study used a chronosequence of soils to test alternative theories and provided new insights into biodiversity.

Experts call for a moratorium on use of new internet domain .health

Health policy academics and clinicians warn of potential risks of new .health internet domain, citing lack of transparency and inadequate stakeholder participation. They recommend an immediate moratorium and the formation of an expert working panel to discuss governance and ensure universal access to quality health information online.

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.

After watching disturbing video, CPAP usage soars

A pilot study using emotional videos has led to a significant increase in CPAP machine usage among patients with sleep apnea, with some users reporting up to 2 hours of additional therapy per night. The approach, which uses personalized videos to create a sense of urgency, resulted in sustained improvement after three months.

Agonizing rabies deaths can be stopped worldwide

A mass dog vaccination program can stop agonizing rabies deaths worldwide by targeting the virus's primary source: dogs. By vaccinating 70% of dogs in high-risk areas, transmission from dogs to humans can be broken, leading to a significant decline in human cases.

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.

Stone Age site challenges old archaeological assumptions about human technology

A 325,000-year-old site in Armenia challenges old assumptions about human technological development by revealing the simultaneous use of two distinct technologies: biface and Levallois. The discovery highlights local innovation and flexibility rather than population expansion, suggesting that humans developed Levallois technology out o...

Interstellar molecules are branching out

Researchers from Max Planck Institute and Cornell University detect iso-propyl cyanide, a branched carbon molecule, in a giant gas cloud called Sagittarius B2. The discovery opens a new frontier in the complexity of molecules found in regions of star formation.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Customer experience matters more when economy is strong, research shows

Researchers found that when the economy is strong, customers focus more on past experiences with service firms and pay attention to aspects like satisfaction and effort made by the firm. The study recommends service managers to prioritize improving customer experience during good economic times to maximize revenue gains.

From rats to humans: Project NEUWalk closer to clinical trials

EPFL scientists have developed a therapy to help people with spinal cord injury walk again by controlling the limbs of a completely paralyzed rat in real-time. The technology uses electrical signals to stimulate nerves and restore movement control. Clinical trials may start as early as next summer using the new Gait Platform.

Taking advantage of graphene defects

Researchers discovered graphene's ability to rectify electric current using artificial triangular holes, offering a new approach for security screening detectors. The study provides an analytical framework for estimating the ratchet effect, which could lead to terahertz radiation detection.

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.

Sam Houston State study finds gang life is short-lived

A study at Sam Houston State University found that gang membership typically lasts around two years, with most youth joining between ages 10 and 16. The study also identified six pathways into and out of gangs, highlighting the need for targeted prevention and intervention programs.

Wound healing response promotes breast cancer metastasis in postpartum mice

A study found that postpartum mice develop metastatic disease due to dying tumor cells triggering anti-inflammatory cytokines that promote wound healing. Mice lacking a receptor for macrophage clearance of dying cells did not develop metastasis, highlighting potential targets for limiting postpartum breast cancer severity.

Findings give hope to plant extract as possible lupus treatment

Researchers have found a promising plant-derived compound, CDDO, that may block both steps of lupus development and has no known side effects. The compound, originally derived from plants, could potentially eliminate the risks associated with current lupus treatments.

Memory slips may signal increased risk of dementia years later

Research suggests that people with memory issues without dementia are at higher risk of developing the disease. A 12-year study found nearly three times more likelihood of memory problems in those reporting changes, emphasizing the importance of taking such complaints seriously.

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.

New milestone in the search for water on distant planets

Researchers have detected water vapor and hydrogen on the exoplanet HAT P-11b, a planet about four times bigger than Earth. This discovery supports astronomers' ideas about planetary formation and suggests that small planets may be rich in heavy elements like oxygen.

New linguistic tools can predict your dialect characteristics

A new study predicts dialect features based on demographic characteristics and location using statistical modeling techniques. The researchers examined how speakers of Italian and Tuscan dialects referred to 170 different concepts, finding that geography and social factors influence language use.

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.