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Science News Archive August 2014 - Page 10


Page 10 of 31

Some anti-inflammatory drugs affect more than their targets

Researchers discovered that commonly used NSAIDs alter the activity of enzymes within cell membranes, which can lead to unwanted side effects. This finding provides a basis for a test to predict and avoid these side effects in new medicines.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 21, 2014

USC Eye Institute study shows Native American ancestry a risk factor for eye disease

A new study from USC Eye Institute reveals that Native American ancestry is a significant risk factor for vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy among Latinos with Type 2 diabetes. The research found individuals with more than 50% Native American ancestry had an 87% higher chance of developing severe diabetic retinopathy.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateAug 21, 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.

Severe drought is causing the western US to rise

Scientists at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution used GPS technology to track uplift caused by the severe drought, estimating a water deficit of 62 trillion gallons. This has resulted in an average uplift of 4 millimeters across the western US and up to 15 millimeters in California's mountains.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Of bees, mites, and viruses

Researchers found that Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) is the most affected virus species by Varroa infestation, while Kashmir Bee Virus (KBV) peaks two years after initial infestation and disappears. The study highlights the importance of beekeeper awareness, mite monitoring, and efficient Varroa control.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 2014

Hacking Gmail with 92 percent success

A team of researchers, including a UC Riverside assistant professor, developed a method to attack apps on Android and other operating systems with high success rates. They tested the method on six popular apps, including Gmail, and found it was successful between 82-92% of the time.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 21, 2014

Liberal democracy is possible in Muslim-majority countries

A new study by University of Toronto researchers explores the relationship between Islam and liberal democracy in Muslim-majority countries. They found that while people in these countries are less tolerant on average than those in Western nations, socio-economic conditions and political regimes play a significant role.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Review of Sociology/Revue canadienne de sociologie·DateAug 21, 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.

Enabling a new future for cloud computing

The NSF awards two $10 million projects to create cloud computing testbeds, enabling the academic research community to develop and experiment with novel cloud architectures. Chameleon and CloudLab will support real-time and safety-critical applications in medical devices, power grids, and transportation systems.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateAug 21, 2014

In our digital world, are young people losing the ability to read emotions?

A UCLA study suggests that excessive digital media use is linked to declining social skills in children, as they spend less time engaging in face-to-face interactions. The research found that sixth-graders who went device-free for five days showed significant improvements in recognizing human emotions compared to their peers.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateAug 21, 2014

JILA team finds first direct evidence of 'spin symmetry' in atoms

Researchers at JILA have confirmed the presence of spin symmetry in strontium atoms, which could lead to breakthroughs in simulating exotic materials and understanding quantum phenomena like superconductivity. The discovery was made possible by an ultra-stable atomic clock, allowing for precise measurements of atom interactions.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Climate change could see dengue fever come to Europe

Research suggests that climate change could lead to an increased risk of dengue fever in Europe, particularly in coastal areas along the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. The disease is spread by mosquitoes, which thrive in warm and humid conditions, making these regions most at risk.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 21, 2014

Cause of global warming hiatus found deep in the Atlantic Ocean

Researchers at University of Washington found that heat absent from Earth's surface is plunging deep into the North and South Atlantic Ocean, part of a naturally occurring cycle. This explains the global average air temperature flatlining since 1999 despite greenhouse gases.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Learning to play the piano? Sleep on it!

Researchers at the University of Montreal found that sleep improves performance on piano tasks by increasing communication between subcortical brain regions. After a night of sleep, these regions function with greater synchrony, enabling better motor learning and memory consolidation.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateAug 21, 2014

Laser device may end pin pricks, improve quality of life for diabetics

Researchers at Princeton University developed a laser-based method to measure blood sugar levels without needing frequent pricking. The technique uses mid-infrared light and is currently 84% accurate, with potential applications beyond glucose detection.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateAug 21, 2014

Primary care physicians can be critical resource for abused women in rural areas

Despite their crucial position, primary care physicians in rural communities rarely screen women for intimate partner violence (IPV). Women experiencing IPV in these areas often face limited resources and support. Providing training to PCPs, educating the community, and improving access to referral services can help address this issue.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateAug 21, 2014

Yale's cool molecules

Yale physicists have successfully cooled strontium monofluoride to near absolute zero using magneto-optical trapping, enabling new research in quantum chemistry and particle physics. The discovery opens doors for experimentation in precision measurement, quantum simulation, ultracold chemistry, and tests of the standard model.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateAug 21, 2014
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Despite a significant reduction in smog-producing toxins, the Greater Toronto Area still violates Canada's standards for ozone air pollution

A new study shows that the Greater Toronto Area has reduced some smog precursors by at least 20% since 2004, but still exceeds Canada's ozone standards due to high sunshine and calm winds. The research found that lower ozone levels between 2008 and 2011 were offset by a record-high summer ozone concentration in 2012.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateAug 21, 2014

Influenced by self-interest, humans less concerned about inequity to others

Researchers at Georgia State University found that humans are strongly influenced by self-interest and do not protest being overcompensated, even in situations where others are unfairly disadvantaged. This suggests that humans' sense of unfairness is affected by their own outcomes, indicating a recently evolved propensity.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateAug 21, 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.

Researchers map quantum vortices inside superfluid helium nanodroplets

Researchers successfully characterized quantum vortices in helium nanodroplets for the first time, revealing unique features and opening new avenues to study quantum rotation. The discovery confirms that helium nanodroplets are superfluid throughout and exhibit a single quantum object behavior.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Delivery by drone

MIT researchers have created an algorithm that enables a drone to monitor its health in real-time, allowing it to take proactive measures during delivery missions. The approach simplifies planning by separating vehicle-level and mission-level tasks, resulting in more efficient and reliable deliveries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 21, 2014

Ice cream goes Southern, okra extracts may increase shelf-life

A new study by the Institute of Food Technologists found that okra extracts can be used as a stabilizer in ice cream, improving texture and extending shelf life. The naturally extracted stabilizers offer an alternative to traditional stabilizers, making them suitable for the ice cream industry.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 21, 2014

Overexpression of Notch1 in temporal lobe epilepsy

Overexpression of Notch1 in temporal lobe epilepsy is associated with reduced seizure frequency and brain discharges. The study found increased presence of Notch 1 and hairy and enhancer of split-1 in intractable temporal lobe epilepsy patients, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for treating the condition.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 21, 2014

Sunlight, not microbes, key to CO2 in Arctic

A new study finds that sunlight, not bacteria, is the key to converting carbon stored in Arctic permafrost into carbon dioxide. As climate change alters the timing and pace of thawing, this process could significantly impact global CO2 levels.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 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.

Shaping the future of nanocrystals

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have observed the direct formation of facets on platinum nanocubes, revealing that a long-held scientific principle breaks down at the nanoscale. This breakthrough enables the control of a nanocrystal's geometric shape and its subsequent chemical and electronic properties.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

How hummingbirds evolved to detect sweetness

Researchers discovered how hummingbirds detected sugar by analyzing their taste receptors, which expanded to respond to carbohydrates. The study revealed that a single mutation drove behavior changes in the birds.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014
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.

Research offers insight into cellular biology of colorectal cancer

A study by researchers at the University of Kansas reveals a new function for APC in protecting against chronic colitis-induced inflammation and tumor development. The team found that functional nuclear APC is necessary to suppress Wnt signaling pathway, controlling goblet cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalCarcinogenesis·DateAug 21, 2014

Playing hunger games: Are gamified health apps putting odds in your favor?

A new study by Brigham Young University researchers suggests that gamification in health and fitness apps may not lead to sustainable behavior change. The study analyzed over 2,000 apps and found that most popular apps feature gamification as a key motivator, but this approach may be limited and demotivating in the long run.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 21, 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.

Sequence of rare kidney cancer reveals unique alterations involving telomerase

A team of scientists sequenced chromophobe renal cell carcinoma tumors and found unique alterations involving telomerase, a gene that plays a critical role in cell division. This discovery provides new clues about the disease's biology and may lead to the development of targeted therapies for this rare type of kidney cancer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 21, 2014

CHEST releases new expert guidance in care of the critically ill and injured

The American College of Chest Physicians has released a consensus statement providing evidence-informed suggestions for preparing and managing the critically ill and injured during large-scale disasters and pandemics. The document aims to guide ethical decision-making, coordination of care, resource conservation, and research in crises.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateAug 21, 2014

Polio: Mutated virus breaches vaccine protection

Scientists have isolated a mutated polio virus that can evade the immune system and render vaccinations ineffective. This discovery is alarming as it threatens to undermine progress made in eradicating polio, which has been nearly eradicated thanks to effective vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

Measuring calcium buildup to predict heart disease in those with chronic kidney disease

A new study finds that calcium buildup in coronary arteries is a strong indicator of heart disease risk in individuals with chronic kidney disease. This measure outperforms other commonly used tests in predicting cardiovascular disease among CKD patients, who are at high risk for heart disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 21, 2014

TeleStroke units improve stroke care in underserved areas

Researchers found that TeleStroke Units improved stroke care in rural Bavaria, Germany, by increasing the number of patients receiving tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) from 2.6% to 15.5%. The median time between arrival and tPA administration fell from 80 minutes to 40 minutes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 21, 2014

Adherence to diet can be measured from blood

A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that a blood sample can be used to assess dietary compliance. The researchers identified biomarkers in the blood that reflected consumption of key components of a healthy Nordic diet, including fatty fish, vegetables, and whole grains.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateAug 21, 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.

New DNA test for diagnosing diseases linked to childhood blindness

A new DNA test can identify the exact genetic cause of congenital cataracts in 75% of cases, allowing for earlier treatment and genetic counseling. The targeted next-generation sequencing test has been shown to be effective in diagnosing rare diseases associated with childhood blindness.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateAug 21, 2014

Toothpaste fluorine formed in stars

Researchers at Lund University found that toothpaste fluorine is formed in stars similar to our sun, supporting a theory about its origins. By analyzing light emitted by stars, they calculated the amount of fluorine present and compared it with predictions.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 21, 2014

Electric sparks may alter evolution of lunar soil

Researchers propose that high-energy particles from solar storms can create sparking, altering the moon's polar soil and potentially reactivating permanently shadowed regions. This 'breakdown weathering' process could change our understanding of planetary evolution in extremely cold regions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 21, 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.

NIH scientists establish new monkey model of severe MERS-CoV disease

Researchers at the NIH have developed a new animal model of severe Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection in marmosets. This model closely mimics the severe pneumonia experienced by people infected with MERS-CoV, making it an ideal option for testing potential treatments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 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.

Children with autism have extra synapses in brain

A study found that children with autism have a surplus of synapses in the brain due to a slowdown in synaptic pruning during development. The researchers discovered that administering a drug called rapamycin can improve autistic-like behaviors in mice, even when given after the behaviors have appeared.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateAug 21, 2014

Novel recycling methods: The fluorescent fingerprint of plastics

Researchers developed a technique that uses fluorescence lifetime measurements to automatically sort plastics, reducing contamination levels and increasing re-use efficiency. The new method can process up to 1.5 tons of plastic per hour, meeting industrial scale requirements.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalGreen and Sustainable Chemistry·DateAug 21, 2014

Coronary calcium predicts heart disease risk in patients with chronic kidney disease

Researchers found that calcium build-up in coronary artery walls is a more useful indicator of heart disease risk in patients with CKD than traditional measures of atherosclerosis. The study suggests that this finding could help safeguard the heart health of millions of people globally who have chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 21, 2014

Biologists reprogram skin cells to mimic rare disease

Researchers have developed a new method to create patient-specific neural crest cells from skin cells, which can help study and potentially treat rare disorders. The technique accelerates the creation of these cells, allowing for more accurate predictions of disease progression and treatment efficacy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 21, 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.

X-ray laser probes tiny quantum tornadoes in superfluid droplets

Researchers have discovered a well-organized 3-D grid of quantum tornadoes inside microscopic droplets of supercooled liquid helium. This formation provides proof of the droplets' quantum state and is different from the lone whirlpool that would form in a regular liquid.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

ORNL scientists uncover clues to role of magnetism in iron-based superconductors

ORNL scientists uncover clues to role of magnetism in iron-based superconductors, finding localized magnetism correlated with high critical temperature and influencing material performance. The study provides experimental evidence that local magnetic fluctuations can influence the behavior of iron-based superconductors.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 21, 2014

Combined use of polio vaccines effective in boosting immunity

A new study suggests that combining Salk inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) with Sabin live-attenuated oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) improves mucosal immunity and reduces viral shedding. The results could help resolve the long-standing debate over vaccine choice in areas where polio is difficult to eradicate.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014