Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive December 2014


Page 11 of 28

Seasoned policymakers drive the fairest bargain of all

A new study reveals that experienced decision-makers care even more about fairness than the general population. The more experience they have, the more they seek equitable offers. This finding challenges existing theories on international politics and may help explain gridlock in climate change negotiations.

Potential new tool for cervical cancer detection and diagnosis

A team of researchers from Central South University in China have demonstrated that photoacoustic imaging can distinguish cancerous from normal tissue and evaluate the stage of cervical cancer with high accuracy. This technique is non-invasive, faster, cheaper, and more effective than conventional methods like colposcopy.

Too much, too little, just right

Researchers found that too much Rbm38 reduces p53 levels, increasing cancer risk, while too little Rbm38 causes premature aging. The study suggests manipulating Rbm38 could have therapeutic benefits by targeting p53 in tumor cells.

'Genome editing' could correct genetic mutations for future generations

Scientists at Indiana University and colleagues have demonstrated a technique for correcting genetic mutations in sperm-producing adult stem cells, a breakthrough that could prevent inherited defects in future generations. The method uses homologous recombination to repair flawed segments of DNA with correct ones.

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.

How trap-flowers attract and deceive pollinating food thieves

Aristolochia rotunda uses mimicked insect compounds to lure flies that feed on insect secretions, a unique pollination strategy discovered by researchers. This system challenges the long-held assumption that these plants mimic egg-laying sites of fly pollinators.

Do crows have an impact on the population of their prey?

A new study reveals that crows have a minimal impact on bird species abundance, contradicting conservation efforts to control their populations. Corvids are actually being threatened by human activities unrelated to their presence.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Reshaping the horse through millennia

A recent study using whole genome sequencing of ancient and modern horses has identified 125 candidate genes involved in physical and behavioral traits. The research also highlights the 'cost of domestication', including increased levels of inbreeding and deleterious mutations in domesticated horses.

Evidence of Viking/Norse metalworking in Arctic Canada

Researchers have found evidence of Viking/Norse metalworking in Arctic Canada, dating back to the 11th century. The discovery includes a stone crucible with fragments of bronze and glass, which suggests that Indigenous peoples did not practice high-temperature metalworking.

Research links soil mineral surfaces to key atmospheric processes

Research by Indiana University scientists reveals that soil mineral surfaces determine nitrous acid release into the atmosphere, playing a pivotal role in smog formation and greenhouse gas lifetime. This finding could contribute to improved models for understanding and controlling air pollution, a significant public health concern.

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.

Microbial-induced pathway promotes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

A new study links molecular signaling pathways in the gut, intestinal microbiome, and development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Disruption of the gut microflora prevented NAFLD in mice fed a high-fat diet, suggesting that altering microbial populations may protect against the disease.

Fraud-proof credit cards possible with quantum physics

Researchers have developed a new method for authenticating physical keys using quantum mechanics, making it impossible to spoof or copy. This 'Quantum-Secure Authentication' uses the unique properties of light to create a secure question-and-answer exchange.

New floor covering can lead to breathing problems in babies

A study by Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research found that exposure to volatile organic compounds from new flooring before and after birth can cause breathing problems in early childhood. Renovations during pregnancy significantly increase the risk of wheezing in infants, particularly those with asthma or allergies.

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.

Microbial 'signature' for sexual crimes

Researchers found that pubic hairs harbor distinct microbial communities, which can distinguish between males, females, and individual people. These findings suggest that microbial 'signatures' from pubic hairs could be used as a new way to link offenders to victims in sexual assault cases.

Climate change could leave cities more in the dark

A Johns Hopkins University analysis finds that climate change will make cities like New York and Philadelphia more susceptible to blackouts caused by future hurricanes. The team predicts a 50% increase in power outages in these cities, with Miami and New Orleans expected to see a 30% increase.

Show us how you play and it may tell us who you are

Researchers found that parrots and crows, particularly New Caledonian crows, Goffin cockatoos, Black Palm cockatoos, and Kea, demonstrated complex object-object combinations during play. These species also combined their toys with playground objects at high rates.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Hazy road to Mecca

During the annual hajj pilgrimage, scientists detected high levels of air pollutants, including carbon monoxide and benzene, in Mecca. The exposure to these chemicals increases the risk of heart failure, headaches, and other serious health issues, highlighting the need for improved regulations and reduced emissions.

Stunning zinc fireworks when egg meets sperm

A Northwestern University-led team uses cutting-edge technology to capture images of zinc sparks in egg cells, revealing a crucial role for zinc in regulating biochemical processes. The study's findings could improve in vitro fertilization methods by identifying high-quality fertilized eggs.

Tobacco cessation outreach to disadvantaged smokers

Researchers identify a proactive approach to help low-SES smokers quit smoking, with telephone-based motivational counseling and free nicotine replacement therapy increasing quit rates. The study found that community resources, such as physical activity and job counseling referrals, were crucial in promoting tobacco cessation.

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.

Proteins drive cancer cells to change states

Researchers at MIT have identified a link between Musashi proteins and the regulation of cancer cell proliferation. The study found that these RNA-binding proteins can force cells into an epithelial state associated with increased growth, making them a promising target for diagnostic markers and potential treatments.

Making sense through order

A study by Ting Qian and Richard Aslin shows that our brains are wired to detect patterns in data, even if they don't lead to correct conclusions. This tendency is built into cognitive processes, providing information on possibilities that might not have been considered otherwise.

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.

Cake or carrots? Timing may decide what you'll nosh on

A recent study by Caltech neuroeconomists found that the speed at which people factor in healthiness affects their ability to exercise self-control. On average, taste information begins to drive food choices 200 milliseconds before health information does.

Edmontosaurus regalis and the Danek Bonebed featured in special issue of CJES

This special issue of the Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences presents new research on the systematics, biogeography, and palaeoecology of the Danek Bonebed, a rich source of Edmontosaurus specimens. The bonebed has produced over 800 catalogued specimens, contributing to our understanding of Late Cretaceous dinosaur communities.

Dental plaque reveals key plant in prehistoric Easter Island diet

Researchers analyze ancient teeth to determine the plant-based food sources of Easter Islanders before European contact. The study finds that starch grains in dental calculus are consistent with modern sweet potato, contradicting previous findings on palm as a staple food.

Shame on us

Thomas Scheff's research aims to define basic emotions, particularly shame, using historical and linguistic analysis. He identifies two types of shame: overt and bypassed, which are often hidden or misnamed in modern societies.

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.

Outreach program gets cessation help to smokers of low socioeconomic status

A randomized clinical trial found that a telephone-based motivational counseling intervention with tobacco treatment specialists increased quit rates among low-SES adult smokers compared to usual care. The program also showed promise in addressing social context factors related to smoking, with women, blacks, and those living in low-in...

Occasional heroin use may worsen HIV infection

Research suggests that occasional heroin use among HIV-positive patients can lead to lower CD4 cell counts, indicating a weakened immune system. This preliminary study found that intermittent heroin users had lower CD4 counts compared to those who consistently abused the drug.

News from Dec. 16, 2014 Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that black patients' poorer health at diagnosis, not treatment differences, explains most of the racial disparity in colon cancer survival. Emphysema detected on CT scans is linked to increased mortality among those without airflow obstruction or COPD.

Intravenous vs. oral antibiotics for serious bone infections in children

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children treated with oral antibiotics did not experience more treatment failures than those treated with PICC-delivered antibiotics. Oral medication offers a safer alternative to IV therapy, reducing the risk of serious complications like infections and blood clots.

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.

COUNTDOWN research consortium calls 'time' on NTDs

The COUNTDOWN research consortium aims to improve drug distribution and integration into broader health system responses for NTDs. It will trial and evaluate new approaches targeting those overlooked and excluded.

Major milestones for Carnegie-hosted Deep Carbon Observatory

The Carnegie Institution has published a new report on the mysterious 90% of Earth's carbon, exploring its quantities, movements, forms, and origins. The Deep Carbon Observatory, led by Robert Hazen and Russell Hemley, aims to answer remaining questions about this essential element.

Switching to vehicles powered by electricity from renewables could save lives

A new study finds that driving electric vehicles powered by renewable energy can reduce air pollution-related deaths by up to 70%. The research also shows that switching to natural gas-powered electricity or vehicles yields significant health benefits. In contrast, vehicles running on corn ethanol or coal-based electricity would increa...

Neuronal circuits filter out distractions in the brain

Scientists have identified a neural circuit in the mouse brain that regulates attention and sensory processing, providing insight into how the brain filters out distractions. The discovery has implications for devastating psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, which are characterized by significant attention deficits.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Most patients don't get counseling about sex after heart attack

A new study found that most heart attack patients do not receive sexual counseling from their healthcare provider, with only 12% of women and 19% of men reporting such advice. The researchers recommend that healthcare providers raise the issue of resuming sexual activity with their patients, as it is an important aspect of overall health.

Research: Two drugs before surgery help women with triple-negative breast cancer

Research shows adding chemotherapy drug carboplatin or blood vessel-targeting drug bevacizumab to standard preoperative chemotherapy increases pathologic complete response rates for women with basal-like triple-negative breast cancer. The drugs also showed benefits in certain gene signatures associated with aggressive disease.

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.

Seeing the forest for the trees

A 50-year study on Australia's protected rainforests has found that the earliest life stages of individual trees are more critical to the overall diversity of the forest than later stages. The research, conducted by LSU ecologist Kyle Harms and his collaborators, used a dataset from Joseph Connell's long-term ecological research study.

New algorithm a Christmas gift to 3-D printing -- and the environment

A new algorithm allows for the efficient decomposition of 3D objects into pyramidal parts, minimizing material waste and saving print time. This breakthrough has significant implications for 3D printing, molding, and casting, enabling the creation of complex shapes with minimal support material.

Review highlights ways to prevent and manage jaw bone disease

Researchers identified increased risk of jaw bone disease in patients taking osteoporosis medications, anticancer drugs, or glucocorticoids. Prevention strategies include good oral hygiene, antibiotics, and surgical treatments to protect at-risk individuals.

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.

Rekindling marriage after combat deployment

A new study offers tailored approaches to help spouses reintegrate and rebuild their relationship after a partner's combat deployment. Strategies include emotional acceptance, effective communication, and maintaining trust.

CCNY psychologist links burnout and depression

A study by City College of New York psychology Professor Irvin Schonfeld found a strong connection between burnout and depression in school teachers. 90% of the subjects identified as burned out met diagnostic criteria for depression, highlighting the overlap between the two conditions.

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.

Past global warming similar to today's

Researchers found that ancient global warming resembled modern climate shift, involving two pulses of carbon emissions. The Paleocene-Eocene thermal maximum, which occurred 56 million years ago, showed similar rates of carbon release to human fossil-fuel emissions today.