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Science News Archive April 2014 - Page 18


Page 18 of 32

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Ita over the Coral Sea

Tropical Cyclone Ita weakened to a tropical storm after making landfall in northeastern Queensland, Australia. NASA's TRMM and Suomi NPP satellites captured imagery of the storm's elongating structure and heavy rainfall rates.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 14, 2014

Researchers describe 4 new species of 'killer sponges' from the deep sea

Four new species of carnivorous sponges have been discovered in the deep sea, using intricate microscopic hooks to trap crustaceans and other small organisms. These 'killer sponges' thrive in the dark depths of the ocean, where energy is scarce, and rely on clever trapping mechanisms to survive.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalZootaxa·DateApr 14, 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.

Puget Sound's rich waters supplied by deep, turbulent canyon

A submarine canyon offshore from the strait that separates the U.S. and Canada supplies most of the water coming into Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Canada's Georgia Strait. This intense flow and mixing contribute to the region's high productivity and mysterious ocean conditions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 14, 2014

Fire and drought may push Amazonian forests beyond tipping point

A new study found that prolonged droughts cause more intense and widespread wildfires, consuming more forests than previously understood. Climate change is expected to lead to shorter rainy seasons and longer dry seasons, increasing the risk of forest fires.

SourceWoodwell Climate Research Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2014

Website information on colon cancer too complex, fails to address key concerns

A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that popular web information on colorectal cancer screening materials are written beyond the recommended sixth-grade reading level and fail to address key risks and barriers. Only half of the sites discussed colorectal cancer risk in the general population, while only a quarter specifical...

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateApr 14, 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.

Young people with epilepsy significantly more at risk of injury

Children and young adults with epilepsy are more likely to suffer broken bones, burns, and poisonings compared to those without the condition. Young people with epilepsy are at significantly greater risk of being poisoned by medication, especially in the age group of 19-24 years old.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 14, 2014

Plague alters cell death to kill host

Scientists have discovered how Yersinia pestis alters cell death pathways to kill host cells and cause pneumonic plague. The study reveals that the bacterium destroys Fas ligand, a molecule that stimulates apoptosis, allowing it to overwhelm the lungs and kill its host.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 14, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bizarre parasite may provide cuttlefish clues

Researchers have discovered 10 new parasite species in Australian cuttlefish, revealing complex life cycles and infection patterns. The parasites' ability to reinfect hosts independently suggests a high degree of specificity, making them potential biological tags for assessing population structures.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalFolia Parasitologica·DateApr 14, 2014

Nano shake-up

University of Delaware researchers show that routine procedures in handling and processing nanocarrier solutions can alter their size and shape, affecting targeted drug delivery to cancer cells. The study's findings have significant implications for the production, storage, and use of nano-based drug delivery systems.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 2014

Saturn's hexagon: An amazing phenomenon

Researchers studied Saturn's northern polar region and confirmed the hexagon's stability and unchanged jet stream. They suggest it's a manifestation of a Rossby wave similar to those on Earth, with implications for understanding Saturn's atmosphere.

SourceUniversidad del País Vasco·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 14, 2014

Better solar cells, better LED light and vast optical possibilities

NTNU researchers have discovered that by tuning a small strain on single nanowires, they can become more effective in LEDs and solar cells. The discovery enables the creation of highly effective solar cells that produce a higher electric power.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists open door to better solar cells, superconductors and hard-drives

Researchers enhance understanding of materials interfaces using DESY's bright research light sources. They discovered a tenfold higher conductivity in a specific interface, shedding light on the mysterious 'missing electrons'. The findings open doors to designing new properties and controlling them.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for April 15, 2014

A new delirium severity score helps predict hospital outcomes in patients with delirium. The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) scoring system is validated for predicting adverse outcomes, including prolonged hospital stay and functional decline. Additionally, a US survey shows that obesity contributes to the dramatic increase in diabet...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 14, 2014

Plugging an ozone hole

A new MIT study finds that international efforts to limit ozone-depleting chemicals have been successful in preventing extreme Arctic ozone losses, unlike Antarctica.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2014

Piezotronics and piezo-phototronics leading to unprecedented active electronics and optoelectronics

Piezotronics harnesses mechanically-induced polarization to modulate charge carriers, leading to novel device applications and unparalleled performance. This technology has given rise to strain-gated piezotronic transistors, logic nanodevices and strain memory devices, enhancing sensing capabilities and enabling 3D structuring.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 14, 2014

New Commission study identifies Europe's top ICT hubs

The European Commission Joint Research Centre has identified Europe's top ICT hubs, which excel in access to top universities, research centers, and funding opportunities. These regions have a high concentration of businesses, innovative output, and strong networks, making them ideal for digital success.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·DateApr 14, 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.

Ferns borrowed genes to flourish in low light

Ferns acquired a gene called neochrome from hornworts, allowing them to thrive in shaded environments. The transfer of this gene helped ferns diversify and flourish under the new canopy, outcompeting flowering plants.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2014

Nutrient-rich forests absorb more carbon

A new study found that forests growing in fertile soils with ample nutrients can sequester up to 30% of the carbon they take up during photosynthesis. In contrast, nutrient-poor forests retain only 6% of that carbon, which is released back into the atmosphere as respiration.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 14, 2014

Let the sun shine in: Redirecting sunlight to urban alleyways

Researchers developed a corrugated, translucent panel that redirects sunlight onto narrow streets and alleyways, increasing illumination by 200 percent in autumn and winter. The panel is designed to provide natural light for everyday tasks and improve mental health, and its cost is estimated between $70 and $100 per square meter.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 14, 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.

Long-term antibiotic treatment for Q fever causes weight gain

Research finds that long-term antibiotic treatment with doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine can cause significant changes in gut microbiota, leading to weight gain in nearly one quarter of patients. The study highlights the need for reduced calorie diets during long-term antibiotic treatment.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateApr 14, 2014

Making dams safer for fish around the world

Researchers from PNNL explore ways to protect fish from barotrauma, a phenomenon caused by dramatic shifts in water pressure near dams. Modifying turbines to minimize pressure change is a promising solution, improving turbine designs and reducing injuries to fish.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalFisheries·DateApr 14, 2014
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Neuroscientists: Brain activity may mark the beginning of memories

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that brain activity in place cells helps construct cognitive maps, a pattern of activity reflecting an animal's internal representation of its environment. This activation can mark the birth of a memory, as seen in rats who pause to inspect their surroundings and create new place fields.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 14, 2014

Beam on target!

The CEBAF accelerator successfully delivered its first data of the 12 GeV era, achieving 6.11 GeV electrons at 2 nanoAmps average current for over an hour. The milestone marks a major step in the commissioning process and demonstrates the ability to deliver high-energy beams beyond the original operational energy.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateApr 14, 2014

UT Dallas study: Youth who fail to envision future commit more crimes

A UT Dallas study found that serious youth offenders who lack hope for the future are more likely to offend at high rates and commit serious offenses. The study suggests that youths who believe they will die earlier tend to focus on short-term gains, leading to impulsive behavior.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateApr 14, 2014
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.

Shiny quantum dots brighten future of solar cells

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory and University of Milano-Bicocca have developed large-area luminescent solar concentrators using 'Stokes-shift-engineered' quantum dots. These concentrated solar cells can generate significant power from sunlight, enabling the creation of transparent photovoltaic windows.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 14, 2014

Lashing out at your spouse? Check your blood sugar

A new study found that lower levels of blood glucose in married individuals predict increased anger and aggression towards their spouse. Participants who had lower evening blood glucose levels were willing to deliver louder and longer noise blasts at their spouse, even after controlling for relationship satisfaction.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2014

Quantum manipulation: Filling the gap between quantum and classical world

Recent studies have explored quantum superposition and its potential applications, including quantum computing and optical clocks. Researchers have developed advanced techniques to manipulate individual quantum systems, such as ion traps and microwave cavities, allowing for the investigation of fundamental quantum mechanics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 14, 2014

Rare bone diseases and their dental, oral and craniofacial manifestations

This review discusses four key physiologic processes in bone/tooth formation affected by rare bone diseases. The authors highlight causative mutations, etiopathology, and treatments for conditions like fibrous dysplasia, osteogenesis imperfecta, and hypophosphatasia.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateApr 14, 2014
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.

A stable model for an unstable target

Singlet oxygen modifies target molecules through precise location and monitoring its effects on HCN channels in open and closed states. The findings introduce a method for further exploration of singlet oxygen's role in biological processes, including memory, heart rate, pain sensation, and cancer development.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateApr 14, 2014

Osteoporosis drugs appear to impede cell membrane repair

Researchers found that osteoporosis medications inhibit the ability of cells to repair their outer membranes, which can lead to jawbone destruction and other serious side effects. The study suggests that patients taking these drugs should talk to their physicians about potential risks.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateApr 14, 2014

Pioneering findings on the dual role of carbon dioxide in photosynthesis

Researchers at Umea University found that bicarbonate has a regulatory function in the splitting of water in photosynthesis. This discovery opens up a new research field investigating the biological and ecological consequences of the dual role of carbon dioxide.

SourceUmea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2014

Irrational health beliefs linked to skipping cardiac rehab sessions

Research suggests that irrational health beliefs are associated with lower adherence to cardiac rehabilitation programs. Patients with more irrational health beliefs completed a lower percentage of sessions than those with fewer such beliefs. Providing evidence-based medical information may help enhance adherence to the program.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateApr 14, 2014
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.

Shared decision making during radiation therapy improves patient satisfaction

A study of 305 patients undergoing radiation treatment found that playing an active role in their treatment decisions improved patient satisfaction. Patients who experienced shared decision making or perceived control over their treatments were more satisfied and reported lower levels of anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCancer·DateApr 14, 2014

Beneficial organisms react differently to parasite drug

Research reveals that beneficial insects like dung beetles and flies react differently to ivermectin due to varying levels of sensitivity. This poses a risk to ecosystem functioning and highlights the need for more comprehensive safety tests to protect these organisms.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateApr 14, 2014
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.

'MicroRNA' could be key target for bowel cancer treatment

A new study finds that microRNA 135b drives the growth of bowel cancers and is a vital 'worker' for several important cancer genes. Testing levels of this molecule could identify patients with aggressive disease, while drugs targeting it may prevent tumour growth and reduce resistance.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 14, 2014
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.

Driven to high-energy excellence

Connor Richards, a second-year undergraduate student at UC Riverside, has won the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship for his research in high-energy physics. He is participating in research at the Large Hadron Collider to detect evidence of supersymmetry and understand dark matter.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateApr 14, 2014

Researchers identify children with emotional behavior difficulties

A new diagnostic tool has been developed to identify children with emotional behavior disorders, including those orphaned by HIV/AIDS. The study found that poverty may wash out any effects of AIDS on the children's mental health, and that community-based organizations need training to respond to their needs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateApr 14, 2014

'Problem wells' source of greenhouse gas at unexpected stage of natural gas production

Researchers used airborne laboratory to measure methane gas above shale gas wells during drilling phase, finding high-emitting wells contributing large portion of total emissions. This discovery could lead to development new methods inventory methane emissions and better define environmental impacts of shale gas development.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2014

Pharmacists can significantly improve blood pressure, cholesterol in stroke patients

A randomized controlled trial found that pharmacists significantly improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels in stroke patients, with a 43% absolute improvement compared to the control group. Pharmacists' active medication adjustment contributed to this effect, despite already taking antihypertensive or lipid-lowering medications.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 14, 2014
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.

Does germ plasm accelerate evolution?

Scientists discovered that species with germ plasm, a cell lineage responsible for producing gametes, evolve faster than those without. This accelerated rate of evolution leads to 'explosive radiations' of species and challenges traditional views on the process.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2014

Study links severe sleep apnea to increased risk of stroke, cancer and death

A 20-year study confirms that moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea is independently associated with an increased risk of stroke, cancer, and death. The study found that people with severe sleep apnea were four times more likely to die and nearly four times more likely to have a stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateApr 14, 2014

Boston-area researchers develop new delirium severity measure for older adults

Researchers developed a new scoring system, CAM-S, to measure delirium severity in older adults, which is associated with hospital mortality rates of up to 33% and estimated annual healthcare costs of over $182 billion. The study found that length of hospital stay increases with delirium severity, as well as mean hospital costs.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 14, 2014