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Science News Archive April 2014 - Page 3


Page 3 of 32

Mother's diet affects the 'silencing' of her child's genes

A study published in Nature Communications found that a mother's diet before conception can permanently affect how her child's genes function. Researchers analyzed blood and hair samples from infants born to mothers who conceived during rainy or dry seasons, revealing higher rates of methyl groups linked to nutrient levels and BMI.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

Graphene only as strong as weakest link

Researchers measured graphene's fracture toughness for the first time, finding it to be significantly lower than its intrinsic strength. The study highlights the importance of fabricating high-quality graphene sheets without defects.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 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.

Facial transplantation: Almost a decade out, surgeons prepare for burgeoning demand

The procedure has been found to be highly effective in restoring people to fully functioning lives after physically disfiguring facial injuries, with most patients experiencing significant psychological improvements. However, the treatment still poses lifelong risks and complications, including rejection and infection.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 29, 2014

Chronic stress heightens vulnerability to diet-related metabolic risk

Researchers found that chronically stressed women who consume high-fat, high-sugar foods are more prone to metabolic risks such as increased waistlines, insulin resistance, and oxidative damage. The study suggests a stress pathway that influences biology through diet, highlighting the importance of treating chronic stress.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateApr 29, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Eplerenone reduces primary endpoint in acute myocardial infarction patients

In a randomized clinical trial, eplerenone significantly reduced the composite primary endpoint of cardiovascular mortality, re-hospitalization, or heart failure in patients with acute ST-elevated myocardial infarction. The study found lower levels of biomarkers BNP/NT-proBNP in the treatment group.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 29, 2014

Low cholesterol in immune cells slows HIV progression

Scientists have identified low cholesterol levels in immune cells as a key factor in slowing HIV progression in some individuals. This discovery could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for preventing HIV disease progression.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateApr 29, 2014

Model sheds new light on sports-related brain injuries

Researchers developed a new mouse model to study the behavioral damage caused by repeated blows to the head. The study shows that mice with mild TBI develop similar behavioral problems as humans with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), including difficulty sleeping, memory issues, depression, and poor judgment.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateApr 29, 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.

Coral reefs provide potent new anti-HIV proteins

Researchers have discovered a new class of proteins called cnidarins that can block HIV virus penetration into T-cells, providing a potent barrier against infection. The proteins were found in a feathery coral collected off Australia's northern coast and show a unique mechanism of action.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 29, 2014

NASA Goddard to bring satellite data to African agriculture

A new program combines NASA's LabNotes and FieldNotes technologies with the mFarms platform to provide relevant satellite data to African farmers and distributors. This collaboration aims to improve crop health, reduce food insecurity, and enhance agricultural productivity in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 29, 2014

Vitamin D may raise survival rates among cancer patients

A study found that vitamin D levels are linked to better outcomes in several types of cancer. Patients with higher vitamin D levels tend to have better survival rates and remain in remission longer than those who are deficient.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 29, 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.

Simple tests of physical capability in midlife linked with survival

Papers published on bmj.com suggest low physical capability in midlife is associated with poorer survival rates, while time spent in light intensity physical activity may ward off disability and reduce mortality. These simple tests can identify those at high risk of achieving a long and healthy life.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 29, 2014

In a commanding position -- and now cheaper

Researchers at EMPA have developed a water-based method for applying transparent conductive oxide (TCO) films, reducing energy consumption and costs. The new process uses molecular self-organisation to grow the TCO film without high-temperature thermal treatment.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 29, 2014

'Lonely' bacteria increase risk of antibiotic resistance

Researchers discovered that 'lonely' microbes are more likely to mutate, resulting in higher rates of antibiotic resistance. The rate of mutation varies according to the number of bacteria present, with more 'lonely' bacteria developing greater resistance to antibiotics like Rifampicin.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

CNIO team presents a new strategy to personalise cancer therapies

Researchers at CNIO developed a new strategy to personalize cancer therapies for advanced patients by analyzing genetic mutations and testing drugs in 'Avatar' mice. The study showed clinical responses in up to 77% of patients, providing a promising approach for personalized medicine.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 29, 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.

NASA satellite spots tornado track near Conway, Ark.

A violent tornado in Arkansas on April 27, 2014, left a distinct trail of damage visible from space. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Aqua satellite captured images of the area before and after the storm, showing pale brown trails where trees were uprooted.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 29, 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.

NRL researchers develop harder ceramic for armor windows

The NRL research team has developed a method to fabricate nanocrystalline spinel that is 50% harder than current spinel armor materials, offering improved protection and weight savings. The new material demonstrates increased hardness even at extremely small grain sizes, making it suitable for high-performance applications.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalActa Materialia·DateApr 29, 2014

Declines in large wildlife lead to increases in disease risk

Research by UCSB professor Hillary Young finds that large wildlife decline leads to an increase in rodent populations, resulting in more fleas and a higher risk of human disease. The study's findings highlight the importance of protecting large and at-risk wildlife species to mitigate this risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2014

Information technology can simplify weight-loss efforts; social support still important for success

Research at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that information technology, such as smartphone apps, can aid in weight loss by streamlining tracking and providing visual feedback. Social support, however, remains essential for long-term success, with in-person connections preferred over online networks.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Telemedicine and E-Health·DateApr 29, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

'Feel good' factor higher when you own, not just use, luxury items

A study found that owning luxury products leads to higher satisfaction with life, whereas using them has a detrimental effect. Participants who kept luxury versions of durable items or consumable goods were more satisfied than those who only used them.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalApplied Research in Quality of Life·DateApr 29, 2014

Girls make higher grades than boys in all school subjects, analysis finds

Research spanning nearly a century reveals that girls have consistently higher grades than boys across various subjects, including math and science. The study's findings contradict recent claims of a 'boy crisis' and suggest social and cultural factors may contribute to the difference in performance.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateApr 29, 2014

Anti-smoking TV ads should use anger, Dartmouth-Cornell study suggests

A Dartmouth-Cornell study found that anti-smoking TV ads using anger are more effective in increasing anti-smoking attitudes and intentions. The research, which manipulated the actor's expressed emotions, showed that the anger-framed ad increased perceived dominance of the speaker.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateApr 29, 2014
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.

Solving a mystery of thermoelectrics

Researchers have finally found a theoretical explanation for the differences in thermal conductivity between similar materials, which could lead to the discovery of new thermoelectric materials. The findings are reported in the journal Nature Communications and were partly supported by the U.S. Department of Energy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

OCULLAR sees ocean color day and night

The OCULLAR instrument can measure ocean color under low-light conditions, allowing scientists to monitor the health and chemistry of the oceans around the clock. This capability will enable researchers to study phytoplankton, microscopic ocean plants that form the base of the oceanic food web.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 29, 2014

Diabetes duration and severity associated with brain atrophy

A study found that longer diabetes duration is associated with brain volume loss and grey matter shrinkage, contrary to previous assumptions about its impact on small vessel ischemic disease. The researchers suggest potential implications for cognitive decline in patients with diabetes.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 29, 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 analysis of 7 ant genomes reveals clues to longer life spans associated with sociality

Researchers identified 24 functional categories of genes with strong positive selection in ant lineages, including those related to nervous system development and immunity. Ant-specific signals on mitochondrial activity genes may be responsible for increased queen lifespan up to 30 years.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 29, 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.

Study: WHO tool underestimates need for osteoporosis treatment

A recent study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that the World Health Organization's Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) underestimates the true dangers for people who are younger than 65 or have been treated for a single broken bone. The study used the Canadian BMI-FRAX form of...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 29, 2014

Saving crops and people with bug sensors

UC Riverside researchers created a method to classify different species of insects with up to 99% accuracy using inexpensive wireless bug sensors. The sensors track multiple insect flight behavior patterns and generate large amounts of data for classification algorithms.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Insect Behavior·DateApr 29, 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.

Anti-bullying policy must focus on all of society

Researchers from the University of Warwick warn that socio-economic status is not a reliable indicator of bullying behavior, contrary to common assumptions. The review found that bullies come from all social backgrounds and are only marginally less likely to be from high socioeconomic levels.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 29, 2014

Search for extraterrestrial life more difficult than thought

A new study suggests that detecting life on exoplanets is more difficult than previously thought, as a lifeless planet can mimic the same results as one with a biosignature. The resolution needed to distinguish between genuine and false positives is impossible with current telescopes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 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.

Study confirms increased prevalence of GI symptoms among children with autism

A new study reveals that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more likely to experience gastrointestinal (GI) complaints, including constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The research highlights the need for standardized screening instruments and clinical guidelines to detect and address GI symptoms in ASD patients.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 29, 2014

Widespread tetraradial symmetry among early fossil sponges

A new study finds early fossil sponges exhibiting tetraradial symmetry, a four-fold arrangement of spicules, in well-preserved fossils from the Cambrian period. This symmetry was previously unknown in living sponges and suggests a more complex ancestry than previously thought.

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateApr 29, 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.

Graphene only as strong as weakest link

Researchers from Rice University and Georgia Tech measured graphene's fracture toughness for the first time, finding it to be somewhat brittle. The study highlights the importance of fabricating high-quality graphene sheets without defects to ensure its structural applications.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2014

Tapah through infrared satellite eyes: Now a typhoon

NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on Typhoon Tapah, showing strong thunderstorms and cold cloud-top temperatures. The storm is expected to weaken and curve northeast before reaching Iwo To, due to increasing vertical wind shear in its path.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 29, 2014