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Science News for August 1, 2014


Georgia Tech jailbreaks iOS 7.1.2

Researchers at Georgia Tech have discovered a way to jailbreak current generation iOS devices running iOS 7.1.2, showcasing the vulnerability of Apple's closed platform to exploitation. The study highlights the importance of patching all publicly disclosed threats to prevent potential attacks.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateAug 1, 2014

'Normal' bacteria vital for keeping intestinal lining intact

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that certain bacteria produce metabolites that strengthen the intestinal epithelium's barrier function. These metabolites activate a protein called PXR, which suppresses inflammatory responses and increases junction strength between epithelial cells.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateAug 1, 2014

History of culture visualized through art history, physics, complexity

Researchers used big data visualization to study the migration patterns of over 150,000 individuals across two millennia, revealing a pattern of geographical birth sources and death attractors. The study also found that cultural centers and economic centers do not always coincide, and that population size does not necessarily determine...

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 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.

Electronic reminders can help patients prevent surgical site infections

A new study found that electronic reminders, such as text messages, significantly increase patient compliance with a preadmission antiseptic showering regimen. The study showed a 66% reduction in composite mean concentration of chlorhexidine gluconate on the skin surface in patients who did not receive digital communications.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateAug 1, 2014

UC Davis memory researcher wins Pentagon grant

A UC Davis memory researcher has received a $2.6 million fellowship from the U.S. Department of Defense to explore neural oscillations in brain regions involved in forming and retrieving memories. The project aims to develop new methods for assessing memory function, boosting learning, and rehabilitating soldiers with brain injuries.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 1, 2014

2014 ESC/ESA Guidelines on non-cardiac surgery: Cardiovascular assessment and management

The 2014 ESC/ESA Guidelines provide recommendations for cardiovascular assessment and management in non-cardiac surgery, aiming to reduce complications. The guidelines cover risk assessment models, biomarkers, anticoagulants, statins, aspirin, and beta-blockers to mitigate cardiac risk in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 1, 2014

O'Neill to receive GSA's 2014 Joseph T. Freeman Award

Desmond O'Neill, a professor of medical gerontology, will receive the GSA's 2014 Joseph T. Freeman Award for his work on aging and transportation. He is recognized for his extensive research publications and leadership roles in promoting gerontology at regional, national, and international levels.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateAug 1, 2014

On-chip topological light

Scientists at the Joint Quantum Institute have successfully demonstrated on-chip topological light, showcasing a robust and consistent method for photonic signal processing. The breakthrough enables the development of microscale delay lines with low energy loss, opening up new possibilities for quantum information processing.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 1, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Fracking' in the dark: Biological fallout of shale-gas production still largely unknown

A study highlights significant knowledge gaps in understanding the environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking. The researchers found that chemical disclosure statements for wells are often incomplete or inconsistent, making it difficult to assess the effects on natural water systems and drinking supplies.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateAug 1, 2014

Taking the guesswork out of cancer therapy

Researchers have developed a first-of-its-kind molecular test kit that can predict treatment and survival outcomes in kidney cancer patients based on their tumor profile. The assay was able to distinguish patients into groups with different survival and treatment outcomes, allowing for more educated choices in treatment options.

SourceBiomedical Sciences Institutes (BMSI)·JournalEuropean Urology·DateAug 1, 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.

For bats and dolphins, hearing gene prestin adapted for echolocation

Researchers found that prestin, a key hearing gene, has evolved independently to play a critical role in echolocation of bats and dolphins. The protein enables these animals to navigate through murky waters or find food in the dark using high-frequency sound waves.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 1, 2014

Pepper and halt: Spicy chemical may inhibit gut tumors

Researchers found that dietary capsaicin triggers a reaction that reduces the risk of colorectal tumors in mice. Chronic activation of the TRPV1 receptor by capsaicin also initiates a negative feedback on EGFR, dampening its activity and reducing unwanted growth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2014

Study reveals one reason brain tumors are more common in men

A study found that retinoblastoma protein is less active in male brain cells, leading to higher brain tumor rates and poorer survival rates. The researchers believe this discovery could lead to more effective therapies and treatments.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2014

Expressive writing may help breast cancer survivors

A University of Houston study found that expressive writing can reduce fatigue, intrusive thoughts, and posttraumatic stress in Chinese-speaking breast cancer survivors. The intervention involved writing about emotions and benefits for 20 minutes each week over three weeks.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalHealth Psychology·DateAug 1, 2014
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.

Jailed family member increases risks for kids' adult health

Research reveals that children exposed to incarceration in their household are more likely to experience poor adult health quality, regardless of other forms of childhood adversity. The study analyzed data from over 81,000 adults and found a significant 18% increase in risk.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateAug 1, 2014

Society bloomed with gentler personalities and more feminine faces

A new study finds that human skulls changed in ways indicating a lowering of testosterone levels during the time culture was blossoming. The research team argues that human society advanced when people started being nicer to each other, leading to more cultural exchange and cooperation.

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateAug 1, 2014
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.

Curran to receive GSA's 2014 Nathan Shock New Investigator Award

Sean Curran, a USC researcher, has been awarded the GSA's 2014 Nathan Shock New Investigator Award for his contributions to understanding the vital roles of metabolism in aging. His work aims to identify evolutionarily conserved mechanisms that regulate cellular and organism survival and longevity.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateAug 1, 2014

A map for eye disease

Researchers have created a high-resolution molecular map of the choroid, supplying blood and oxygen to the outer retina, revealing patterns of protein abundance that may be critical in vision loss. The map helps explain why certain areas are more susceptible to disease and identifies potential treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateAug 1, 2014

Management of anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage

Anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage (AAICH) poses a significant challenge, with a mortality rate as high as 42.3% to 67%. The latest supplement from the Journal of Neurosurgery provides evidence-based guidelines and strategies for managing patients with AAICH.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateAug 1, 2014

Chemists develop MRI technique for peeking inside battery-like devices

Researchers at New York University and the University of Cambridge have developed a method to examine supercapacitors' inner workings using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This technique allows them to locate molecular events responsible for device performance and explore electrolyte concentration gradients.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 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.

Plastic surgeons or nurses: Who are the better injectors?

A recent study led by American scientists found that plastic surgeons believe they are the most skilled at performing aesthetic injections. However, nurses with specialized training in this area may be considered more capable of administering vaccines. The study highlights the importance of training requirements and guidelines for inje...

SourceSpringer·JournalAesthetic Plastic Surgery·DateAug 1, 2014

'Active' surfaces control what's on them

Scientists at MIT and Saudi Arabia have created a new system to make surfaces active, using external fields like magnetic fields to exert precise control over particle movement. This technology could enable new biomedical or microfluidic devices and self-cleaning solar panels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 1, 2014

NASA sees Tropical Storm Halong's 'best side'

Tropical Storm Halong is expected to intensify for three days before weakening, with forecasters predicting a path near Okinawa. The storm's strongest thunderstorms and coldest cloud tops are located on the east side of its center, indicating potential heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2014

Preterm children do not have an increased risk for dyscalculia

Developmental psychologist Julia Jäkel argues that preterm children do not have an increased risk for dyscalculia. The study, published in The Journal of Pediatrics, suggests that current diagnostic criteria are insufficient to accurately assess mathematics skills in these children.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateAug 1, 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.

Light pulses control graphene's electrical behavior

Researchers at MIT have found a way to control graphene's electrical conductivity using extremely short light pulses. By modulating electron concentration, they can alter graphene's photoconductive properties from semiconductor-like to metallike behavior.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 1, 2014

Mapping the optimal route between two quantum states

Scientists from Chapman University and several other institutions develop an experiment to track quantum trajectories, comparing them to a recent theory predicting the most likely path. The results show good agreement between theory and experiment, verifying the theory and opening the way for active quantum control techniques.

SourceChapman University·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2014

A hellacious two weeks on Jupiter's moon Io

Three massive volcanic eruptions occurred on Jupiter's moon Io within a two-week period, leading scientists to speculate about their frequency. The eruptions, characterized by 'curtains of fire', suggest that if observed more frequently, many more events might be seen on Io.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalIcarus·DateAug 1, 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.

LSUHSC Nursing awarded $1 million grant to improve care for veterans

The LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans School of Nursing has received a $1.05 million grant to train healthcare teams in recognizing risks associated with PTSD, depression, and TBI in veterans undergoing surgery. The project aims to improve care for military veterans and diverse populations with behavioral health disorders.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateAug 1, 2014

'Wetting' a battery's appetite for renewable energy storage

A new material enables sodium-beta batteries to operate at significantly lower temperatures, lasting longer and reducing the risk of accidental fire. The improved design also reduces costs by using less expensive materials.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2014

Cordilleran terrane collage

New research by Steve Israel and colleagues reveals that the Northern Cordillera is a 'collage' of terranes with shared histories, blurring the definition of tectonic terranes. This challenges long-held assumptions about the geologic history of North America.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateAug 1, 2014

Scientists warn time to stop drilling in the dark

Shale gas development poses significant ecological threats due to air, water, noise, and light pollution. The study highlights the need for improved data collection and transparency on spills, wastewater disposal, and fracturing fluids.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateAug 1, 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.

Advances in assisted reproduction create more options and new legal issues for LGBT couples

The article discusses the latest advances in assisted reproduction options for LGBT individuals, including gestational surrogacy and in vitro fertilization. It also explores the economic and legal implications of these options, highlighting the need for greater awareness and understanding among clinicians and policymakers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateAug 1, 2014

Scientists name new species of cetacean: The Australian humpback dolphin

A new species of cetacean, the Australian humpback dolphin (Sousa sahulensis), has been officially named by researchers from the Wildlife Conservation Society and Clymene Enterprises. The discovery provides taxonomic clarity to a previously taxonomically confused group of marine mammals.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalMarine Mammal Science·DateAug 1, 2014

Clues to curbing obesity found in neuronal 'sweet spot'

A new study by Yale researchers found that blocking the effects of PPARgamma in brain cells can prevent weight gain and resistance to high-fat diets. This discovery has key implications for treating type 2 diabetes, where weight gain is a common side effect of medication.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 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.

Potential treatment and prevention of Parkinson's disease

Researchers at Max Planck Institute show that supplying D-lactate or glycolate, two products of the gene DJ-1, can restore mitochondrial activity and prevent neuron degeneration in Parkinson's disease. These substances may also have a general role in protecting cells from decline.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBiology Open·DateAug 1, 2014

Recent use of some birth control pills may increase breast cancer risk

A recent study published in Cancer Research found that women who recently used birth control pills containing high-dose estrogen had an increased risk for breast cancer. The study suggests that this risk may vary by oral contraceptive formulation, and it is essential to consider the established health benefits of oral contraceptive use...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 1, 2014

Reptile Database surpasses 10,000 reptile species

The Reptile Database has recorded over 10,000 known species, making it the most diverse vertebrate group after fish and bird species. The 10,000th species, Cyrtodactylus vilaphongi, is a tiny gecko discovered in Laos.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·DateAug 1, 2014

Analysis of African plant reveals possible treatment for aging brain

Scientists at the Salk Institute have discovered a compound in the Voacanga africana plant that protects cells from altered molecular pathways linked to neurodegenerative diseases. The compound, voacamine, has shown anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, suggesting potential as a treatment for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and stroke.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalJournal of Ethnopharmacology·DateAug 1, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A train of 5 tropical cyclones in the Central and Eastern Pacific

A train of five tropical lows is stretching across the Pacific Ocean, featuring remnants of Tropical Storm Genevieve and newly developed Tropical Storm Iselle. The system includes three other low-pressure areas, with a well-developed Iselle near the end of the train.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2014