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Science News Archive April 2014


Page 28 of 32

Higher social class linked to fewer bone fractures among non-white women

A UCLA-led study found that higher education levels are associated with lower rates of bone fractures among non-white women. The study followed over 2,000 pre-menopausal women for nine years and found that those with at least some postgraduate education had an 87% lower non-traumatic fracture rate than those with less education.

'Like a giant elevator to the stratosphere'

A new study reveals a previously unknown atmospheric phenomenon over the South Seas, which boosts ozone depletion in polar regions and could have a significant influence on future climate. The discovery of the 'OH shield' layer allows long-lived chemical compounds to enter the stratosphere, contributing to global impact.

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.

Tracking sperm whales' ecology through stomach contents

Researchers analyzed stomach contents of pygmy and dwarf sperm whales to better understand their feeding ecologies. The study found that while the two species share similar foraging parameters, pygmy sperm whales consume a greater diversity and size of prey.

Grandparents may worsen some moms' baby blues

A new study from Duke University suggests that living with grandparents can exacerbate the baby blues in some mothers. Married and single mothers who live in multi-generational households experience higher rates of depression, while cohabiting couples without marriage benefits from having one or more grandparents in the house. The find...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Trayvon Martin case: Lessons for education researchers

Researchers explore the implications of the highly politicized debate surrounding Trayvon Martin's fatal shooting on issues of race, gender, and economic status in education. The case highlights the devastating impact of gun violence on black women, who face a higher homicide rate than any other group.

Walking may help protect kidney patients against heart disease and infections

A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that moderate exercise, such as walking, can improve immune function and reduce inflammation in patients with chronic kidney disease. Six months of regular walking was shown to decrease immune cell activation and markers of systemic inflammation.

Researchers probe the next generation of 2-D materials

Scientists have successfully fabricated a photosensor using single layers of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), which converts light into electricity at an extremely efficient rate. The material's large energy gap enables it to achieve high on/off ratios, making it suitable for future electronic devices.

Taming a poison: Saving plants from cyanide with carbon dioxide

Researchers at Saint Mary's University and the University of Jyväskylä have isolated cyanoformate, an ion that can deactivate cyanide's toxic capabilities, using crystallography and computational chemistry. This discovery highlights the importance of applied chemistry in understanding carbon-capture processes.

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.

Tiny power generator runs on spit

Researchers have developed a saliva-powered, micro-sized microbial fuel cell that produces nearly 1 microwatt of power. The device uses graphene and bacteria from the natural environment to create energy, paving the way for portable biomedical devices with built-in power sources.

New data show the immediate value of scientific research

New data show that US scientific research has a substantial impact on the economy, with most funded workers not being university faculty members. The study found that universities spend federal funding on goods and services from companies both large and small, with 70% of expenditure spent outside their home states.

Fermi data tantalize with new clues to dark matter

Researchers use Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope data to identify excess gamma-ray emission at high energies, consistent with dark matter annihilation. The signal is difficult to reconcile with other explanations and provides a strong case for the existence of dark matter.

Study shows fertility drugs do not increase breast cancer risk

A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that women who took clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins for fertility treatment did not have an increased risk of breast cancer over 30 years. However, a small number of women had a higher risk after multiple cycles of these medications.

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.

Off the shelf, on the skin: Stick-on electronic patches for health monitoring

Engineers at the University of Illinois and Northwestern University have developed thin, soft stick-on patches that incorporate commercial chip-based electronics for sophisticated wireless health monitoring. The patches are wirelessly powered and can send high-quality data about human body to a computer in real-time.

'Unzipping' poplars' biofuel potential

Researchers at Michigan State University have engineered poplar trees to break down more easily, improving their viability as a sustainable source of biofuel. The innovative approach reduces energy usage and cost in the production of biofuels.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cassini reports sub-surface ocean on Enceladus

New gravity data reveals an ocean of liquid water beneath 30-40 km of ice at Enceladus' surface, potentially creating conditions for complex chemical reactions. The sub-surface ocean may extend towards the equator in every direction, similar to Europa's ocean.

Moving the fence posts

Fencing can disrupt predator-prey dynamics and limit access for migratory herbivores. The Zoological Society of London argues that fencing should be reconsidered as a conservation tool, prioritizing connected environments over physical barriers.

16 new Priority Programmes

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft has established 16 new Priority Programmes, investigating fundamental scientific questions in emerging areas of research. The programmes cover various disciplines and have a total budget of €89 million for the first three-year period.

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.

Hot mantle drives elevation, volcanism along mid-ocean ridges

Scientists have found that temperature variations deep within the Earth's mantle influence mid-ocean ridge elevation and volcanic hotspots, resolving a long-standing controversy. The study analyzed seismic wave data and rock chemistry to determine that higher mantle temperatures are associated with thicker crust and volcanic activity.

NASA's Aqua satellite flies over newborn Tropical Depression 05W

Tropical Depression 05W is a newly formed storm in the northwest Pacific Ocean with good circulation and strong convection around its center. The depression is expected to strengthen into a typhoon by April 7 as it moves through southern Micronesia towards the Philippines.

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.

Patient stem cells help identify common problem in ALS

Researchers at Harvard University have discovered a link between ALS mutations and motor neuron hyperactivity, suggesting a new therapeutic target. The approved medication for epilepsy may be effective in reducing this hyperexcitability, paving the way for clinical trials.

Energy breakthrough uses sun to create solar energy materials

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a method to produce solar energy materials directly from sunlight, reducing production costs and time. This process uses a continuous flow microreactor to synthesize nanoparticle inks that make solar cells by printing.

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.

NIST launches a new US time standard: NIST-F2 atomic clock

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has launched NIST-F2, an atomic clock that is three times more accurate than its predecessor, NIST-F1. The new clock will help improve technology innovations in fields like cellular telephones, GPS satellite receivers, and the electric power grid.

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.

Bacteria get new badge as planet's detoxifier

Researchers at DRI found that certain bacteria can consume and convert left-handed amino acids into right-handed forms, which would otherwise be toxic to plants and animals. This discovery suggests that these bacteria play a crucial role in detoxifying the environment by consuming D-amino acids produced through geochemical transformation.

Brand new old journal

The oldest European zoological journal, Zoosystematics and Evolution, has combined tradition with innovation by joining Pensoft Publishers. The new platform offers a novel, semantically enriched format while maintaining traditional PDF and print versions.

HIV vaccine research must consider various immune responses

Researchers are investigating HIV vaccines that failed to demonstrate efficacy and may have increased susceptibility to HIV infection. A new perspectives article highlights the need for risk-benefit analysis when developing new HIV vaccine candidates.

Women do not apply to 'male-sounding' job postings

Women are less inclined to apply for jobs with advertisements featuring masculine traits such as assertiveness, independence, and analysis. In contrast, leadership skills are perceived as equally capable by both men and women, but women rate themselves and others lower in this area. Leaders who show gratitude and empathy, on the other ...

Discovery of a mechanism that makes tumor cells sugar addicted

Research discovers that tumor cells' reliance on glucose for energy is driven by a defective gene that fails to degrade glucose receptors, making them 'addicted' to sugar. The study offers new insights into the Warburg effect and potential treatment strategies.

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.

Transplant drugs may help wipe out persistent HIV infections

A new strategy in the fight against HIV and AIDS emerges from a study that found immunosuppressant therapy can reduce inflammation and control viral persistence. Researchers discovered that patients taking certain immunosuppressive drugs, such as sirolimus, had fewer infected cells over time.

Quantum photon properties revealed in another particle -- the plasmon

Researchers at Caltech discovered that surface plasmons exhibit quantum interference, similar to photons. This finding has potential implications for quantum computing and the development of new materials. The study validated theoretical predictions and demonstrated the coherence of plasmon waves.

How electrodes charge and discharge

A team at MIT has figured out a way to measure the fundamental charge transfer rate in porous battery electrodes, revealing significant surprises. The study found that the Butler-Volmer equation is inaccurate, especially at higher voltage levels, and that electron transfer between two solids determines the rate.

Drawing conclusions

Dr. Carmit Katz's study found that drawing during questioning significantly improves the accuracy and detail of child abuse testimonies. Children empowered to draw reported regaining control and feeling hopeful, with richer descriptions provided compared to those not offered this opportunity.

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.

New study casts doubt on heart regeneration in mammals

A recent study published in Stem Cell Reports has found no evidence of complete heart regeneration in newborn mice after apex resection. The researchers, led by Ditte Andersen, were unable to replicate the findings of a previous 2011 study that suggested complete regeneration was possible.

Sage grouse losing habitat to fire as endangered species decision looms

Post-wildfire stabilization treatment has not helped restore habitat for the greater sage grouse, a critically endangered species in the US Great Basin. The study highlights the challenges of managing non-native plants and climate change in the region, suggesting that recovery time may be longer than previously thought.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

DFG to establish 5 new research units

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) is establishing five new Research Units to explore innovative research directions in various fields. The new groups will focus on composite structures, personnel decisions, and metastatic cancer progression, with the goal of improving our understanding of these complex topics.

Economic evaluation of an osteoporosis screening campaign using FRAX

Researchers found an osteoporosis screening campaign using FRAX as a pre-screening tool to be cost-effective if there is optimum follow-up and adherence to medication. The study used microsimulation modeling to estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of the strategy versus no intervention.

Women entrepreneurs have limited chances to lead their new businesses

A study by UNC Chapel Hill sociologists found that women in mixed-sex startup teams are less likely to hold leadership roles, even when they adopt organizational templates like formal operating agreements. The researchers suggest that cultural expectations and the presence of children at home amplify these inequalities.

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.

Poor quality of life may contribute to kidney disease patients' health problems

A study found that poor quality of life in African Americans with chronic kidney disease is associated with increased risks of disease progression and heart problems. The research suggests that improving quality of life may help protect patients' health, highlighting the need for better management of kidney disease-related health issues.

Immune cell defenders protect us from bacteria invasion

Researchers have identified a precise biochemical key that activates immune cells called MAITs, which defend against bacterial and fungal invaders. The breakthrough has potential applications in treating inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulcers, and tuberculosis.

Resting-state functional connection during low back pain

A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that experimental low back pain altered the functional connections between the insula and default mode network, affecting regions involved in cognition and emotion. The findings suggest a crucial role of these brain regions in pain processing.

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.

Gravity measurements confirm subsurface ocean on Enceladus

Scientists have confirmed that Enceladus has a large subsurface ocean near its south pole using gravity measurements collected by Cassini. The data suggest that the ocean is about 50 kilometers below the surface, and its density could compensate for the absence of material at the surface.