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Science News Archive December 2014


Page 13 of 28

Neurons listen to glia cells

A team of scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz uncovered a new signal pathway in the brain that plays a crucial role in learning and sensory input processing. Glial cells release a specific protein fragment that influences neuronal cross-talk, leading to changes in neural networks.

Training elderly in social media improves well-being and combats isolation

A landmark study found that training older adults in social media improves mental health and well-being by enhancing cognitive capacity, increasing self-competence, and combating isolation. The study showed that participants became more positive about computers, engaged in social activity, and had a stronger sense of personal identity.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tourism poses a threat to dolphins in the Balearic Islands

A study led by the University of Barcelona found that tourism, fishing, and sea transport are compromising the wellbeing of common bottlenose dolphins in the Pityusic Islands. The researchers estimate there are only a few hundred dolphins in the area, and conservation measures are needed to protect them.

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.

March of the penguin genomes

The study provides insights into how penguins have adapted to the cold Antarctic environment through complex biological systems. The researchers identified genes related to beta-keratins, lipid metabolism, and forelimb evolution that are unique to penguins.

Cells can use dynamic patterns to pluck signals from noise

Researchers found a way for cells to encode information about incoming chemical signals, given their variable states. By analyzing responses over time, they eliminated the 'noise' of cellular variability and accurately recorded signal levels.

Senescent cells play an essential role in wound healing

Researchers at the Buck Institute discovered that senescent cells secrete PDGF-AA, which accelerates wound closure and heals wounds normally. This finding suggests that cellular senescence may play a beneficial role in human health throughout the lifespan.

Genes tell story of birdsong and human speech

Researchers have discovered that birds and humans share the same genes to produce speech, with similar brain circuitry involved in singing behavior. The study, led by Duke neuroscientist Erich Jarvis, reveals that vocal learning evolved twice or three times among songbirds, parrots, and hummingbirds.

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.

Hepatitis C ruled out as cause of mental impairment in HIV patients

A new study published in Neurology eliminated hepatitis C virus as a cause of mental impairment in HIV patients. The research, conducted by a team of scientists at Washington University School of Medicine, involved 1,582 HIV patients and found no evidence that hepatitis C infection affects the brain.

Three San Antonio studies target androgen in breast cancer

Research reveals that blocking androgen receptors can reduce the growth of estrogen-positive breast cancers and kill triple-negative breast cancer cells. Combining these drugs with HER2 or mTOR-targeting therapies shows promise for increased effectiveness in treating breast cancer.

Blood lipid metabolites allow early identification of cardiovascular disease

Researchers identified two lipid metabolites, lysophosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, associated with reduced risk of coronary heart disease, while monoglyceride was linked to increased risk. The study's findings suggest that these blood lipid metabolites could serve as predictors for cardiovascular disease.

Computer scientists at UT Austin crack code for redrawing bird family tree

A new computational technique developed at UT Austin has enabled the construction of an avian tree of life that sheds light on bird evolution, including a 'big bang' in timing and rearranged evolutionary relationships. The study analyzed entire bird genomes, providing new insights into song pattern recognition and other traits.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

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Mapping the tree of life

A team of scientists completed the largest whole genome study of a single class of animals to date, sequencing and comparing full genomes of 48 bird species. The study resolves early branches in the tree of life of modern birds, providing new insights into their evolutionary history and adaptation to different lifestyles.

Energy efficient homes linked to asthma

A new study by the University of Exeter Medical School found that residents in energy-efficient social housing may have a greater risk of developing asthma. The presence of mould doubled this risk, highlighting the need for residents to properly ventilate their homes to prevent health issues.

Getting antibodies into shape to fight cancer

Researchers at the University of Southampton have found that a specific form of antibody, IgG2B, is more effective at stimulating cancer immunity than others. By engineering antibodies into a locked B structure, they aim to create stronger immune stimulators for cancer patients.

Study: Invasive species can dramatically alter landscapes

A study from Purdue University reveals that invasive species can transform landscapes in various ways, including altering sedimentation rates and changing stream channels. The review highlights the importance of identifying high-risk areas and understanding the impacts of invasive microbial organisms.

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.

Obese children's brains more responsive to sugar

A new study led by researchers at University of California, San Diego School of Medicine found that obese children's brains show enhanced responses to sugar. The study suggests that this 'food reward' response may predispose them to crave more sugar throughout life.

Scientists measure speedy electrons in silicon

Researchers used attosecond XUV spectroscopy to capture individual snapshots of electrons transitioning from the valence shell to the conduction band in silicon. The transition takes less than 450 attoseconds, allowing scientists to study complex electronic processes that were previously too fast to be approached experimentally.

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.

Interstellar mystery solved by supercomputer simulations

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding galaxy evolution by modeling the effects of stellar activity on star formation. By running complex supercomputer simulations, they found that feedback from stars plays a crucial role in regulating galaxy growth.

The avian tree of life

A recent study sequencing the genomes of 45 avian species has provided the most reliable tree of life for birds, shedding light on their rapid emergence from a mass extinction event. The findings reveal that modern birds diverged rapidly and their sex chromosomes have evolved differently than those in humans.

Slow rate of croc mutation revealed in major Science study

A recent Science study reveals that crocodilians have a slow rate of mutation, evolving about one-quarter the rate of birds. This discovery sheds light on how these species maintained their genetic diversity and survived for hundreds of millions of years.

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.

Cause of malaria drug resistance in SE Asia identified

A study published in Science has identified a single mutated gene, K13, as the cause of growing resistance to malaria drugs in Southeast Asia. This finding provides a way to detect emerging resistance and potentially eliminate it before spreading globally.

Researchers detect possible signal from dark matter

Scientists have identified an atypical photon emission signal in X-rays from space that could be evidence of dark matter. The anomaly's distribution corresponds to expected patterns for dark matter, and further analysis confirms the findings.

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.

Ebola virus may replicate in an exotic way

A study by University of Utah researchers found a unique mechanism used by the Ebola virus and other related viruses to replicate. The discovery, which was made possible through computer simulations, may lead to new targets for antiviral drugs within five to 10 years.

Nanoshaping method points to future manufacturing technology

A team of researchers has developed a new method, laser shock imprinting, to create large-area patterns of three-dimensional nanoshapes from metal sheets. This technique enables the mass production of innovative materials with engineered surfaces that control light, potentially revolutionizing high-speed electronics, advanced sensors, ...

GoPro HERO13 Black

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New studies power legacy of UW-Madison research, 60 years later

Researchers have made significant discoveries about coenzyme Q and its production pathway, shedding light on mitochondrial function and its link to human diseases. Two new studies published in PNAS and Molecular Cell reveal the biochemical functions of key proteins involved in coenzyme Q synthesis.

International team maps 'big bang' of bird evolution

An international team has sequenced and compared full genomes of 48 bird species to resolve the timing and relationships of modern birds. The study suggests that only a few bird lineages survived the mass extinction event, giving rise to the 10,000 Neoaves species that comprise 95% of all bird species.

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.

Drug may help prevent bone fractures in patients on dialysis

A study found that cinacalcet reduced the rate of bone fracture in patients on dialysis by 16-29%, after adjusting for patient characteristics. The drug may provide a protective effect against fractures in these patients, who are at increased risk due to kidney failure.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Penn research outlines basic rules for construction with a type of origami

Researchers develop fundamental cuts and folds to maintain lattice proportions, enabling versatile applications in nanotechnology, architecture, and aerospace. The technique allows for the creation of complex shapes, including channels and ratcheting interfaces, with potential uses in self-folding materials.

Decoding the Tree of Life

A team of scientists has decoded the avian genome, revealing that bird evolution occurred rapidly 65 million years ago. The study provides new insights into the evolutionary history of birds, including the discovery of ancient viruses and unexpected kinship between waterbirds and landbirds.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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International team maps 'big bang' of bird evolution

A global collaboration has sequenced and compared full genomes of 48 bird species, revealing the origins of feathers, flight, song, and sex chromosomes. The study resolves key debates on bird family trees and evolutionary timelines.

A key human gene modifies the immune response to flu vaccine

A study found that genetic variants in the IL-28B gene affect influenza vaccine responses. Individuals with at least one copy of the minor allele were more likely to achieve seroconversion after vaccination, particularly those on high doses of immune-suppressive drugs. Blocking the IL-28B receptor may boost the antibody response to flu...

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Texas Tech biologist leads group that mapped crocodilian genomes

A Texas Tech University biologist led a team of over 50 scientists in mapping the genomes of three crocodilians, including a crocodile, alligator, and gharial. The research reveals that crocodilian genomes change very slowly compared to birds, with an estimated 93% identical DNA across their genomes.

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.