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Science News Archive April 2014


Page 30 of 32

Going global

A genome-wide analysis of genes that drive cell division in a multicellular organism has been conducted, revealing over 300 genes differentially expressed during the G1 and G2 phases. The study provides a searchable resource for scientists and citizens to explore gene expression in wing discs and cultured cells.

A brain region for resisting alcohol's allure

Researchers find the lateral habenula controls sensitivity to the negative effects of drinking alcohol, leading to increased drinking behavior when the region is inactivated. This study provides new insights into addictive behaviors and may help identify individuals at risk of becoming problem drinkers.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Scientists make major breakthrough in eye disease therapy

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin made a breakthrough in treating AMD by finding that IL-18 suppresses abnormal blood vessel growth behind the retina. Low doses of IL-18 have shown no adverse effects on the retina, offering a promising non-invasive treatment option.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Morning rays keep off pounds

A Northwestern University study found that people exposed to early morning sunlight have a significantly lower body mass index (BMI) than those who get afternoon light. The study suggests that bright morning light can be used as a strategy for managing weight, and recommends getting at least 500 lux of brightness between 8am and noon.

Dinosaur chase reconstructed 70 years after excavation

Researchers digitally reconstructed a model of a dinosaur chase using theropod and sauropod footprints excavated in Texas 1940. The reconstruction allowed scientists to view the entire 45m long tracksite in 3D for the first time since excavation, corroborating maps drawn by original excavator.

Finnish research improves the reliability of ice friction assessment

Researchers at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have developed a new thermodynamic model that improves the reliability of ice friction assessments. The model shows that sliding speed and ice temperature significantly affect surface friction, leading to erroneous interpretations in earlier laboratory measurements.

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.

'Trans Fat, Regulation, Legislation and Human Health'

The US Food and Drug Administration is reviewing evidence linking dietary trans fat to human health risks, with potential restrictions on industrially produced trans fats. The move aims to reduce cardiovascular disease risk and has implications for industries such as food manufacturers and restaurants.

Ancient volcanic explosions shed light on Mercury's origins

A new analysis of Mercury's surface suggests that the planet experienced extended periods of volcanic explosions in its history. The study, led by researchers at Brown University, used MESSENGER data to determine that the eruptions did not occur all at once but rather over an appreciable period of Mercury's history.

Making the most of carbon nanotube-liquid crystal combos

Researchers found temperature and concentration effects on physical properties of combined materials, including tilt angle, polarisation, response time, and dielectric relaxation. Increasing nanotube concentration enhances certain properties but slows down others.

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.

Tiny crystals to boost solar

Researchers in France have developed a new technique for studying solar panel absorber materials, which could lead to non-toxic and readily available alternatives. The technique involves resonant diffraction of single crystals, allowing for the creation of high-quality material samples.

Researcher: Chowing down on watermelon could lower blood pressure

A new study by Florida State University Associate Professor Arturo Figueroa found that watermelon extract significantly reduced blood pressure in overweight individuals at rest and under stress. The study showed improvements in aortic blood pressure and cardiac stress while exposed to cold temperatures.

One or 2? How to decide how many species you have got

Scientists from Museum für Naturkunde Berlin use genetic data and sound analysis to determine the taxonomic status of two West African treefrog species. They found that two previously considered a single species actually belong to two distinct species, one large and one small, with different call characteristics.

Call for circumcision gets a boost

New study finds infant circumcision reduces risk of adverse medical conditions by over 100 to 1, with benefits including protection against urinary tract infections and foreskin-related diseases. The procedure is also shown to be cost-saving and promote access for poor families.

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.

Diffeomorphometry and geodesic positioning systems for human anatomy

A team of researchers demonstrates new algorithmic technologies for parametric representation of human shape and form, enabling tracking of soft-tissue deformations in various medical conditions. The software algorithms provide tools for synchronizing structural and functional information across anatomical scales.

River ice reveals new twist on Arctic melt

A recent study by Simon Fraser University geographer Lance Lesack discovered that warmer springs with unexpected snowfall declines are driving earlier-than-expected ice breakup in great Arctic rivers. This finding is significant as it challenges previous assumptions about the effects of climate change on Arctic ice systems.

NASA releases images of M-class solar flare

On April 2, 2014, NASA captured imagery of an M6.5 solar flare, which is ten times less powerful than X-class flares. The event may impact Earth's atmosphere and disrupt GPS signals.

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.

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.

Structural insights into the inner workings of a viral nanomachine

Researchers used cryo-Electron Microscopy to visualize dynamic activities of rotaviruses, revealing internal features that changed with levels of viral messenger RNA production. This study provides new insights into the mechanics of rotavirus RNA synthesis and potential targets for treatment.

A rainy day can ruin an online restaurant review

Researchers analyzed 1.1 million online reviews across 32,000 cities and found that weather plays a significant role in review quality. Evaluations written on rainy or snowy days are more negative than those written on nice days.

Infants are sensitive to pleasant touch

Research published in Psychological Science found that infants' heart rate slows in response to medium-velocity touch, indicating sensitivity to pleasant touch. The findings suggest a link between caregiver sensitivity to touch and infant responses, potentially supporting both nurture and nature explanations.

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.

Strain can alter materials' properties

Researchers are exploring strain engineering to alter materials' properties, which could improve energy storage and conversion rates in devices like batteries and fuel cells. By applying and managing stresses within known materials, scientists can achieve exponential improvements in key reaction rates.

Body odor changes following vaccination

Researchers at Monell Chemical Senses Center and USDA found that immunization alters urine odor in similar ways, while immune-activated responses produce qualitatively different odors. This discovery suggests a pathway between immune activation and changes in body odor compounds, potentially enabling non-invasive disease detection.

One in 4 people with high blood pressure not taking their meds properly

A study of 208 patients with high blood pressure found that nearly a quarter did not take their medications as prescribed, while a smaller proportion only took part of the time. The findings suggest that a simple urine test can help identify which patients are not taking their meds properly and which may be experiencing treatment failure.

Despite economic times, US demand for total joint replacement remains steady

A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that economic downturns did not significantly impact the growth trends for hip and knee arthroplasty in the US. The study's results support previous projections, indicating a recession-proof demand for total joint replacement through at least 2021.

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.

Ethics guidelines for next generation of risky NASA missions

The National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine has developed ethics principles and responsibilities to guide NASA in implementing health standards for spaceflights beyond low Earth orbit. The guidelines aim to mitigate risks faced by astronauts on extended stays on the International Space Station and Mars missions.

Drexel researchers open path to finding rare, polarized metals

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a way to classify and predict the existence of rare polar metals, which are electrically conductive and have an asymmetric distribution of electrons. This discovery could lead to new materials with unique properties, such as superconductivity.

Sleep apnea linked with blood sugar levels

Research links sleep apnea with higher blood sugar levels, highlighting the need for clinicians to monitor diabetes in patients with sleep apnea. The study found a significant correlation between glucose concentration and sleep apnea severity.

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.

Longer stay in hospital ICU has lasting impact on quality of life

A recent Johns Hopkins study found that even a single day of bed rest in the ICU can lead to lasting physical impairments. Muscle strength was significantly lower over time, especially among older patients, highlighting the need for rethinking care approaches in ICUs.

Albertans support perinatal mental health screening

A recent study found that a large majority of Albertans, 63%, support mental health screening during pregnancy. The survey also showed that 72.7% of women of child-bearing age favour postpartum screening, which jumped to 88.5% among this demographic.

Adenoma detection rates linked to colorectal cancer and mortality

A large study of over 224,000 patients and 314,000 colonoscopies found that higher adenoma detection rates are associated with a decreased subsequent risk of colorectal cancer. The study confirms that adenoma detection rates are an accurate quality metric for clinicians performing colonoscopies.

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.

Science-themed music videos boost scientific literacy, study shows

Researchers at the University of Washington found that science-themed music videos significantly improved students' quiz scores on complex comprehension questions. Participants showed an average increase of one correct answer after watching the visually-rich music videos, which also boosted memorization and factoid-type questions.

Europium complexes emit red light at record efficiency

Researchers developed two europium complex-based compounds with record-high luminescence efficiency in red light, suitable for OLED applications. The materials' stability and ability to be produced from solutions make them promising for various fields, including displays, lighting components, and anticancer therapies.

A critical window into the developing human brain profiled in Nature

Researchers have created a high-resolution blueprint for the developing human brain, mapping where genes are turned on and off during mid-pregnancy. This atlas provides insight into diseases like autism and the origins of human uniqueness, revealing key genetic hubs linked to social behavior and cognitive features.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

First peanut genome sequenced

The International Peanut Genome Initiative has successfully sequenced the peanut's genome, providing researchers with access to 96% of all peanut genes. This breakthrough will enable the development of drought- and disease-resistant, lower-input, and higher-yielding peanut varieties.

Cereal box psychology

A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab researchers found that cereal boxes marketed to children have a lower shelf placement and downward-facing characters, creating incidental eye contact. This leads to increased feelings of trust and connection with the brand, as well as higher ratings for consumer preference.

Earthquake research explores use of high-performance concrete

Researchers are studying ways to selectively use high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete in buildings, exploring its potential to improve strength without increasing costs. The approach focuses on using advanced materials only at vulnerable joints, such as beam-column connections, to enhance structural resilience.

Climate change forces flower festival forward a month since 1960s

The Thriplow Daffodil Weekend in Cambridgeshire has been forced to bring its dates forward by 26 days over its 46-year history due to increasing mild springs. UK climate change is causing vulnerable people and industries to shift their seasonal activities, like this flower festival.

Strain-specific Lyme disease immunity lasts for years, Penn research finds

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that strain-specific Lyme disease immunity can last six to nine years. This finding has significant implications for vaccine design, as a single vaccine could potentially cover multiple strains of the disease-causing bacteria, substantially reducing the risk of infection.

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.