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Science News Archive April 2014


Page 10 of 32

Ask yourself: Will you help the environment?

A Concordia University study found that consumers are more likely to buy eco-friendly products if they predict their own sustainable shopping behavior and feel observed. The study also discovered that this effect is stronger for individuals who define themselves based on social ties and peer opinions.

New challenges in internet of physical world addressed

The book explores the major challenges of wireless sensor and robot networks, including controlled mobility, energy efficiency, and coordination. These challenges affect various applications, such as fleet operations, sensor networks, and fully cooperative systems.

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.

Multiple sclerosis: A review of current treatments for physicians

The article provides evidence-based information on the latest treatments for multiple sclerosis, highlighting the benefits and risks of various therapies. Steroids are found to be the most effective way to treat relapses, while immunosuppressants like natalizumab and fingolimod have varying degrees of success.

Specialized ambulance improves treatment time for stroke

A specialized ambulance equipped with a CT scanner, laboratory, and telemedicine connection was shown to reduce treatment time for ischemic stroke patients. The study found that the average alarm-to-treatment time decreased by 25 minutes, and the rate of thrombolysis increased from 21% to 33%.

New drugs offer hope for migraine prevention

Two new studies release promising results for migraine prevention, with one study showing a 66% decrease in migraine days and another demonstrating a 63% reduction. The new treatments target calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a protein thought to be involved in migraine, and are considered safe and well-tolerated.

Neuroscientists discover brain circuits involved in emotion

Researchers at the University of Bristol have identified a key brain pathway linking emotional behavior to survival circuits, revealing potential therapeutic targets for anxiety and phobias. The study highlights the cerebellum's role in fear response and suggests its involvement in managing dysregulated emotional states.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AMP publishes curriculum recommendations for medical laboratory scientists

The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) released a report recommending a molecular diagnostics curriculum for medical laboratory scientists, balancing accreditation, certification, and job market needs. The recommendations aim to prepare future scientists for high-complexity testing and support the growth of genomic technology.

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.

Vacuum ultraviolet lamp of the future created in Japan

Scientists have developed a solid-state vacuum ultraviolet lamp that emits high-energy UV light at the shortest wavelengths ever recorded. This breakthrough promises smaller, safer, and longer-lasting lamps for sterilizing medical devices and cleaning semiconductor substrates.

What gave us the advantage over extinct types of humans?

Researchers identified genes whose activity changed uniquely in modern humans during evolution, including those linked to Alzheimer's disease, autism, and schizophrenia. Epigenetic changes in the brain and immune systems distinguished us from Neanderthals and Denisovans.

Grasp of SQUIDs dynamics facilitates eavesdropping

Researchers have developed an analytical approximation to study SQUID dynamics, enabling faster computation and evaluation of sensitivity in magnetometers. The technique, used for low-noise amplifiers and antennas, reduces simulation time to practically zero.

Atorvastatin protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury

A recent study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that atorvastatin, a commonly used lipid-lowering drug, protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The study, led by Dr. Qiuyun Tu and colleagues, showed that atorvastatin reduces inflammation and oxidative stres...

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.

Cow manure harbors diverse new antibiotic resistance genes

A recent study has identified 80 unique antibiotic resistance genes in cow manure, including a new family of chloramphenicol-resistant genes. These genes have the potential to transfer to bacteria in soil and food, posing a risk for human health if they colonize harmful bacteria.

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.

NASA gets 2 last looks at Tropical Cyclone Jack

Tropical Cyclone Jack weakened significantly after two observations by NASA's TRMM satellite on April 21, with maximum sustained winds dropping from 90 knots to 30 knots. Rainfall rates reached up to 197 mm/hr, indicating a powerful storm before its final weakening.

Cloaked DNA nanodevices survive pilot mission

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have successfully created DNA nanodevices that can survive the body's immune defenses long enough to perform diagnostic or therapeutic tasks. The devices use a virus-like cloaking strategy to evade the immune system and deliver drugs directly to diseased tissues.

New research focuses on streamwater chemistry, landscape variation

A recent study examines streamwater chemistry along a 32-tributary stream network in New Hampshire, finding that factors like slope and nutrient levels significantly influence water quality. The research provides high-resolution data for monitoring and managing aquatic ecosystems.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Best practices in communication for the animal world

Researchers found that effective communication involves both signalers and receivers, with groups of males called leks increasing accuracy for females. Investing in ecological structures showed a weak improvement in signaling ability, while using non-food items reduced accuracy.

Life stressors trigger neurological disorders, researchers find

Researchers found that maternal trauma, illness, or substance abuse activates a single gene in brain cells, leading to structural abnormalities and neuropsychiatric disorders. The study suggests that even minor environmental insults can permanently change how brain cells respond.

Bioinformatics profiling identifies a new mammalian clock gene

A team from the University of Pennsylvania used a computer-assisted approach to identify and rank candidate clock components, leading to the discovery of a new core clock gene named CHRONO. CHRONO physically interacts with known clock proteins and modulates daily rhythms in cells.

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.

Mantis shrimp stronger than airplanes

Researchers develop composite material with improved impact resistance and toughness inspired by mantis shrimp's club, which accelerates underwater faster than a 22-caliber bullet. The new design structure shows less external damage and increased residual strength after impact compared to standard aerospace materials.

Connecticut River watershed study will assess impacts of extreme rain events

Researchers will investigate how extreme rain events affect the transport of dissolved organic matter through the Connecticut River watershed, potentially impacting water quality and mercury inputs. The study aims to test a new conceptual framework for drainage networks and understand regional-scale dynamics of river systems.

Neuroimaging: Live from inside the cell

Researchers developed a new optical microscopy technique to analyze the redox state of mitochondria in living tissue. The study revealed that severance of an axon results in a wave of oxidation of the mitochondria, which begins at the site of damage and is propagated along the fiber.

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.

Glaucoma drug helps women with blinding disorder linked to obesity

A study funded by the NIH found that acetazolamide can help preserve and restore vision for women with IIH, when combined with a moderate weight loss plan. The trial involved 161 participants who experienced improved visual field tests, optic nerve swelling reduction, and greater improvements in daily function and quality of life.

Male health linked to testosterone exposure in womb, study finds

A new study suggests that low testosterone exposure in the womb may influence male susceptibility to serious health conditions like obesity and heart disease. Researchers found that reduced testosterone levels in fetal testes can impair Leydig cell function, leading to lifelong health consequences.

New patenting guidelines are needed for biotechnology

A new paper from Rice University's Baker Institute calls for revised patenting guidelines to address the broad patent landscape in biotechnology. The authors suggest initial steps to reform patent licensing and require detailed patent descriptions to prevent costly lawsuits.

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.

Mysteries of a nearby planetary system's dynamics now are solved

A team of astronomers has developed a viable model for the planetary system orbiting the star 55 Cancri, solving long-standing mysteries about the masses and orbits of its two giant planets. The study reveals that their particular masses and orbits are preventing the system from self-destructing anytime soon.

Research shows impact of Facebook unfriending

Research shows that high school friends are the most likely to be unfriended on Facebook, often due to polarizing comments or frequent uninteresting posts. The studies also found that being close friends at one point in time can intensify emotional responses to unfriending.

New design for mobile phone masts could cut carbon emissions

A new amplifier design for mobile phone masts has been developed, achieving 50% efficiency compared to the current 30%. This could lead to a massive 200MW reduction in load on UK power stations and a corresponding decrease in CO2 emissions. The project aims to make a valuable contribution to meeting the UK's carbon reduction targets.

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.

UV-radiation data to help ecological research

Researchers have processed NASA UV-B radiation data to study its influence on organisms. The dataset provides six variables, including annual averages and seasonal patterns, to help scientists analyze the effects of UV-B radiation on animal and plant species.

Two genes linked to inflammatory bowel disease

A study has found that genetic loss of Ron receptor and its growth factor HGFL leads to aggressive inflammation and damage to the colon in models with IBD. The research suggests these genes may reduce their function due to SNPs, leading to chronic intestinal inflammation.

Carnegie Mellon system lets iPad users explore data with their fingers

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed Kinetica, a visualization approach that allows users to explore complex data using natural gestures on the iPad. The system converts tabular data into colored spheres, enabling users to sort, filter, and manipulate data points with ease.

Nanomaterial outsmarts ions

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf and Vienna University of Technology created ultra-thin membranes that allow highly charged ions to pass through with little energy loss. This discovery has significant implications for developing novel electronic components made of graphene.

Nanoreporters tell 'sour' oil from 'sweet'

Rice University scientists have created a nanoscale detector that checks for and reports on the presence of hydrogen sulfide in crude oil and natural gas while they're still in the ground. The detection method is sensitive enough to detect low concentrations, making it an important tool for improving safety and efficiency in oil fields.

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.

Protein expression gets the heart pumping

Using mouse models, researchers identified a protein that regulates alternative splicing and affects heart contraction and function during postnatal development. CELF1 protein plays a crucial role in regulating certain alternative splicing events, which are associated with endocytosis and vesicular trafficking.

Neurotics don't just avoid action: They dislike it

A study of nearly 4,000 college students in 19 countries found that neurotics have unfavorable attitudes towards action and favorable attitudes towards inaction. This association is primarily driven by anxiety, and collectivistic tendencies may also play a role.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

NREL unlocking secrets of new solar material

Researchers at NREL have discovered a new solar material, perovskite, that can generate electricity more efficiently than previous materials. The material has a unique ability to diffuse photons a long distance, making it suitable for low-cost and high-efficiency devices.

First size-based chromatography technique for the study of living cells

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a novel method to study the membranes of living cells by using size-based chromatography. This approach allows them to probe supramolecular structures in cell membranes at the nanometer length scales, providing insights into how spatial organization affects cellular function.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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