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Science News Archive April 2014 - Page 27


Page 27 of 32

Helium ions may provide superior, better-targeted treatment in pediatric radiotherapy

Researchers have developed a method to calculate the optimal dose of helium ions for radiation treatment, showing promising results in treating pediatric patients with neuroblastoma and Hodgkin's lymphoma. The use of helium ions may provide greater accuracy and reduced uncertainties compared to conventional radiotherapy or proton therapy.

SourceEuropean Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO)·DateApr 5, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cleft palate discovery in dogs to aid in understanding human birth defect

UC Davis researchers have identified a genetic mutation responsible for cleft palate in Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, providing a new model for studying the craniofacial defect. This discovery may lead to a better understanding of cleft palate in humans and its associated complications.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 5, 2014

Visualizing a safe place reduces procedural pain

Research presented at EuroHeartCare 2014 found that visualizing a safe place reduced operative pain in patients undergoing ablation of atrial fibrillation. Patients who used visualization during the procedure were in pain less often and asked for fewer painkillers, with perceived pain intensity possibly also reduced.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2014

Zombie cancer cells eat themselves to live

A University of Colorado study shows that cancer cells can outlive chemotherapies by using autophagy, a process where cells recycle damaged parts. This finding has implications for developing drugs that inhibit autophagy to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateApr 5, 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.

Poor sleep doubles hospitalizations in heart failure patients

A recent study published at EuroHeartCare 2014 found that poor sleep doubles the risk of unplanned hospitalizations in patients with heart failure. The researchers analyzed data from nearly 500 patients and discovered that those with chronic sleep problems were two times more likely to be hospitalized than those without sleep issues.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2014

Ankle fractures could be significant risk factor for subsequent fracture

A study of 749 postmenopausal women found that ankle fractures were associated with lower areal BMD and altered bone microstructure, similar to forearm fractures. These findings suggest that ankle fractures should be considered osteoporotic fractures in fracture risk assessment.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateApr 5, 2014

Scientists unmask the climate uncertainty monster

New research finds that increased scientific uncertainty in the climate system necessitates even greater action to mitigate climate change. The study shows that as uncertainty in temperature increase expected with a doubling of CO2 rises, so do economic damages and likelihood of exceeding safe temperature limits.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalClimatic Change·DateApr 4, 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.

Common breast cancer subtype may benefit from personalized treatment approach

Researchers at UPCI discovered that a subset of patients with lobular carcinoma receive less benefit from adjuvant tamoxifen, indicating potential targets for drug therapy. The study suggests a unique signaling pathway regulated by estrogen in lobular carcinoma cells may be exploited in future clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 4, 2014

Does a junk food diet make you lazy? UCLA psychology study offers answer

A UCLA psychology study reveals that a diet high in processed foods leads to weight gain, fatigue, and cognitive impairments. The research suggests that junk food diets, not lack of exercise or discipline, are responsible for obesity and related health issues.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateApr 4, 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.

Scientists generate 3-D structure for the malaria parasite genome

A research team led by Karine Le Roch generated a 3D model of the human malaria parasite genome at three stages of its life cycle. The study revealed one major repression center for virulence genes, which could lead to new anti-malaria strategies by disrupting the parasite's genome architecture.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalGenome Research·DateApr 4, 2014

Disease-free survival estimates for ovarian cancer improve over time

A new study found that ovarian cancer patients' disease-free survival rates significantly improved over time, particularly among those with poorer initial prognoses. The research suggests that considering the time elapsed since remission may provide a more accurate prognosis and inform better follow-up care decisions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 4, 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.

£800,000 grant to create the computers of the future

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield are developing molecular wires that could replace silicon chips, offering significant increases in computing power and data storage capacity. The project, led by Dr. Nathan Patmore, is backed by an £800,000 Royal Society Research Fellowship.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateApr 4, 2014

Indoor tanning by teens linked to unhealthy weight control methods

A study in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics found a strong association between teen indoor tanning and unhealthy weight control behaviors. Females who used indoor tanning were more likely to report fasting, vomiting, or taking laxatives to lose weight.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateApr 4, 2014

IOF Medal of Achievement awarded to professor Rene Rizzoli

Professor René Rizzoli has made significant contributions to understanding osteoporosis, a disease that affects millions worldwide. Through his work with the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), he has helped promote medical innovation and improved care for patients.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateApr 4, 2014
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.

New study on the crime risk on London Underground

A new study published in Crime Science found that below ground offences are concentrated at particular stations, with the highest risk during morning and late afternoon peak travel periods. The research developed an algorithm to calculate the probability of where theft is most likely, helping authorities target resources more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalCrime Science·DateApr 4, 2014

Flipping the switch on scleroderma

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the core signaling pathway that activates scleroderma and found chemical compounds that can turn it off. This discovery offers a new approach to treating the disease, which currently lacks effective treatments.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateApr 4, 2014
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.

Light-activated neurons from stem cells restore function to paralyzed muscles

A team of scientists at UCL and King's College London has developed a technique to restore function to paralyzed muscles using light-activated neurons created from stem cells. The method involves transplanting these motor neurons into injured nerve branches, which can be controlled by adjusting blue light pulses.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateApr 4, 2014

Bacterial gut biome may guide colon cancer progression

A study published at The Wistar Institute Cancer Center found that bacterial virulence proteins can suppress DNA repair proteins in epithelial cells, leading to genetic mutations that favor tumor development. This research opens the possibility of modifying colon cancer risk by altering gut bacteria populations.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·DateApr 4, 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.

Researchers empower parents to inspire first-generation college-goers

A new program at University of the Pacific empowers low-income parents to guide their children on the path to college. The approach includes family information meetings, themed activity packets, and individualized attention to help parents feel more engaged and confident in supporting their kids' educational pursuits.

SourceUniversity of the Pacific·DateApr 4, 2014

EAGeR medical trial: Low-dose aspirin won't prevent pregnancy loss

A study of 1228 women found that low-dose aspirin did not improve live birth rates or reduce pregnancy loss, but showed benefits for those who had experienced a single pregnancy loss within the previous year. Women should consult their healthcare providers before taking any medication while trying to conceive.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 4, 2014

Swedish researchers show impact of long-term vitamin D insufficiency on fracture risk

A Swedish study found that long-term low levels of vitamin D intake are associated with higher 10-year fracture risk in elderly women. The study showed that vitamin D insufficiency sustained over 5 years contributed to increased 10-year fracture incidence, especially in those with consistently low vitamin D levels.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateApr 4, 2014

Major genetic study links liver disease gene to bladder cancer

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study identifies AGL as a key driver of bladder cancer growth, linked to hereditary liver disease glycogen storage disease 3. Low AGL levels correlate with poorer prognosis and increased tumor proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 4, 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.

Math modeling integral to synthetic biology research

Researchers from UH and Rice University collaborated to engineer a synthetic gene circuit that compensates for temperature changes. The team used mathematical modeling to design the plasmid and created a genetic clock with a stable period across various temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2014
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.

Panel issues exercise recommendations for people with osteoporosis and spine fractures

The Too Fit to Fracture Initiative presented exercise recommendations for individuals with osteoporosis and spine fractures. The panel recommends a multicomponent exercise program with resistance and balance training, and daily balance training and endurance training are recommended for all individuals with osteoporosis.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateApr 4, 2014

To bridge LEDs' green gap, scientists think small... really small

Researchers found that reducing indium nitride's dimensions can produce green light with higher energy, leading to more efficient LEDs. The nanostructures can be tailored to emit different colors of light, enabling the creation of natural-looking white lighting.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 4, 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.

New risk factors for avalanche trigger revealed

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered that the amount of snow needed to trigger an avalanche in the Himalayas can be up to four times smaller than in the Alps. This finding has significant implications for mitigating natural hazards and safeguarding people on mountain villages, roads, and ski resorts.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalInternational Journal of Fracture·DateApr 4, 2014

Does too much time at the computer lead to lower bone mineral density in adolescents?

A Norwegian study found that higher screen time was associated with lower bone mineral density in boys, while girls who spent more time on computers had higher BMD than their peers. The findings suggest that sedentary lifestyles during adolescence can impact bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateApr 4, 2014

Analysis finds less research attention given to diseases of the poor

A new analysis finds that research on diseases of the poor is disproportionately underfunded, exacerbating global health disparities. The study suggests that boosting scientific research within poorer countries could help close this gap and increase studies on underserved diseases.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 4, 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.

Loneliness impacts DNA repair

A study by Denise Aydinonat and Dustin Penn found that solitary African grey parrots have shorter telomeres than those housed with mates, regardless of age. This suggests that both extreme social conditions can accelerate cellular aging and may serve as a biomarker for chronic stress.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 4, 2014

Depression increases heart failure risk by 40 percent

A study of nearly 63,000 Norwegians found that moderate to severe depression increases the risk of heart failure by 40%. Depression triggers stress hormones and inflammation, which may accelerate heart diseases. Early detection and treatment can help improve outcomes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateApr 4, 2014

Some long non-coding RNAs are conventional after all

Researchers have identified hundreds of open reading frames in long non-coding RNAs that may give rise to functional proteins using ribosome profiling. The method allowed direct quantification of messenger RNA fragments protected by the ribosome, revealing translated small open reading frames.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateApr 4, 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.

Genetic testing beneficial in melanoma treatment

A clinical trial found that genetic screening can help doctors customize treatments for patients with advanced melanoma, reducing cancer recurrence risk by 63%. The study used ipilimumab therapy and identified biomarker signatures to tailor treatment plans.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 4, 2014

Toward a clearer diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome

Researchers used functional PET imaging to show that neuroinflammation is higher in CFS/ME patients compared to healthy people. The study found associations between inflammation in certain brain areas and symptoms such as impaired cognition.

SourceRIKEN·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateApr 4, 2014
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.

Guelph researchers solve part of hagfish slime mystery

Researchers have solved part of the hagfish slime mystery, revealing how super-strong protein threads are organized at the cellular level. The discovery provides valuable insights into producing synthetic versions of the threads for commercial use.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 4, 2014