Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive December 2014


Page 16 of 28

Revolutionary new procedure for epilepsy diagnosis unlocked by research

Scientists at the University of Exeter have developed a new method to diagnose epilepsy using mathematical modeling and brain electrical activity analysis. This approach reveals subtle differences in brain network properties that enhance susceptibility to seizures in people with idiopathic generalized epilepsies.

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.

NSF funds Kent State study of human chromosome

Researchers will use techniques like molecular scalpels and laser tweezers to study G-quadruplex structures in human telomeres. The goal is to understand how these units are structured and distributed, which could lead to new anti-cancer drugs.

New technology tracks carcinogens as they move through the body

Researchers have developed a method to track the movement of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) through the human body, shedding light on their role as carcinogens. The technology uses accelerator mass spectrometry to detect tiny amounts of PAHs in blood and explore how they are processed by humans.

Research aims to improve hip and knee replacement success

Washington State University researchers are working on a five-year NIH grant project to develop new bone-like coating materials that will allow titanium-based implants to integrate better into the body. The goal is to improve implant success rates, particularly for younger patients and those undergoing revision surgeries.

Fungus-growing ants selectively cultivate their crops

Researchers reconstructed how fungus-growing ants improved their clonal crops into a robust farming system. The ant farmers lost the ability to produce vital amino acids and enzymes themselves, relying on the fungus for delivery.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New study uses DNA to solve mystery of sudden unexplained death

Researchers at Scripps Translational Science Institute are using DNA to investigate sudden deaths in San Diego County, aiming to identify genetic mechanisms and develop preventative screening programs. The study hopes to provide closure for families and potentially save lives.

New insight into cancer defense mechanism

A recent study published in Nature Communications sheds light on chromosome segregation and its impact on cancer development. Researchers discovered that mutations in the BubR1 protein can cause cancer by disrupting correct chromosomal passage.

Ancient creature discovered in the depths of the Arctic Ocean

Scientists from USGS and Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History discover new genus and species of bivalve mollusk, Wallerconcha, in deep-water sediment cores from the Beaufort Sea. The discovery is named after Dr. Thomas R. Waller and Sara Powell, co-authors of the study.

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.

Rare gene mutations raise risk of early heart attack

Researchers identified rare APOA5 gene mutations linked to high triglycerides and increased heart attack risk. The study found that these mutations also raise LDL receptor mutation prevalence, underscoring the role of triglyceride metabolism in early-onset heart attacks.

Link between power lines and ill-health called into question

A recent study by the University of Manchester has investigated the effects of weak magnetic fields on human proteins, including those crucial for health. The research found no detectable impact on key proteins, suggesting that power lines and other electrical devices may be safer than previously thought.

New breast cancer classification based on epigenetics

Researchers identified two subtypes of breast cancer, Epi-Basal and Epi-Luminal B, which differ in their epigenetic patterns. The subtype Epi-Luminal B is associated with reduced survival rates and requires adjuvant chemotherapy.

Scientists create food ingredient that will make you feel fuller

Researchers at Imperial College London discovered an ingredient, inulin-propionate ester (IPE), that stimulates gut hormones to reduce hunger and prevent weight gain. The study found that IPE supplementation reduced body weight and fat accumulation in overweight volunteers.

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.

NYIT study: Thyroid hormones reduce animal cardiac arrhythmias

A new NYIT study reveals that rats treated with thyroid hormones had a reduced risk of developing dangerous heart arrhythmias following a heart attack. The findings could have important implications for future treatment of human patients with heart failure, who often suffer from atrial fibrillation.

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.

New study into life-threatening pregnancy condition calls for specialist centers

A new study has identified key steps for hospitals to improve care for pregnant mums and babies affected by congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The report highlights inconsistencies in care delivery, with some areas showing better patient-centered models. Key recommendations include focusing acute care on specialist centers and deve...

Climate change projected to drive species northward

A new study predicts eastern Pacific marine species will shift poleward due to climate change, altering fish communities and fishing grounds. The study suggests some species will move into habitats of other marine life to the north, while others may disappear from areas at their southern ends.

Patients given less blood during transfusions do well

A new Rutgers-led research study found that patients with heart disease who receive transfusions during surgeries do just as well with smaller amounts of blood. The study measured overall mortality and found no evidence of increased mortality from cardiovascular disease or severe infection due to the amount of blood given after surgery.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Alcohol-control law may curb partner abuse

A new study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs suggests that laws limiting alcohol outlet density can reduce rates of intimate partner violence. Communities with fewer alcohol outlets tend to have lower rates of partner abuse, according to researchers.

More holistic approach needed when studying the diets of our ancestors

Recent research on early hominid diets highlights the limitations of using modern technologies alone to understand their eating habits. A holistic approach is needed, considering factors such as habitat, anatomy, and cognitive abilities. This interdisciplinary method can provide a more accurate picture of our ancestors' diets.

Meniscus regenerated with 3-D printed implant

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have developed a way to replace the meniscus with a personalized 3D-printed implant infused with human growth factors, promoting tissue regeneration in sheep. The therapy could provide an effective and long-lasting repair of damaged menisci, reducing the risk of arthritis.

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.

Anyone who is good at German learns English better

Research by University of Zurich linguist Simone Pfenninger found that students with strong German language skills tend to excel in English, even if they start learning the latter at a later age. In contrast, early foreign language learning can sometimes hinder L1 development in the short term.

Honeybee hive sealant promotes hair growth in mice

Researchers found that propolis, a substance from honeybee hives, encourages hair growth in mice by increasing special cells involved in the process. The study suggests that propolis' anti-inflammatory compounds could help treat balding conditions.

Racial and ethnic disparities narrow for acute care

A study found that racial and ethnic disparities in acute care narrowed significantly as hospitals improved quality, with nine major disparities mostly disappearing by the end of 2010. Hospitals serving minorities made faster improvements and delivered more equal care to white and minority patients over time.

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.

New way to turn genes on

Researchers at MIT have successfully turned on any desired gene in living cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. This breakthrough enables scientists to study gene function and identify genes involved in diseases, such as melanoma. The new method has also been used to screen for genes that confer resistance to cancer drugs.

How long can Ebola live?

A new study by a Pitt researcher reveals that there is limited scientific data on how long the Ebola virus can survive on surfaces, in water, or in liquid droplets. This knowledge gap makes it challenging to develop effective disinfection practices to prevent the spread of the disease.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study examines effects of family-friendly workplace policies

A study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that family-friendly policies significantly increase productivity and are related to higher labor productivity. The study also discovered a positive relationship between unionization and increased productivity and lower turnover rates.

Lifestyle the key to gap in cardiac patient outcomes

Researchers at the University of Adelaide found that patients who managed their lifestyle factors were five times more likely to have long-term survival without any further heart arrhythmia. The intensive risk factor management program improved arrhythmia-free survival rates from 18% to 87% after five years.

Conservation targeting tigers pushes leopards to change

Research from Nepal's Chitwan National Park found that leopards avoid tigers by seeking different locations to live and hunt, while shifting their activity patterns to nighttime. The study highlights the complexity of human-wildlife interactions and the need for conservation efforts to account for these dynamics.

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.

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.

Wetlands more vulnerable to invasives as climate changes

A new study finds that climate change may tip the scales in favor of invasive wetland plants, which can outcompete native species due to their natural phenotypic plasticity. As environmental changes occur, invasive species will gain an advantage over native species, potentially reducing biodiversity and ecosystem function.

Metal test could help diagnose breast cancer early

Researchers developed a blood test that detects changes in zinc isotopic composition to identify biomarkers of early breast cancer. A pilot study showed promising results, with the ability to detect key differences in zinc caused by cancer.

Can doctors be trained in a 48-hour working week?

While some argue that a 48-hour working week has led to negative effects on medical training, others find no evidence to support these claims. Several reviews conclude that high-quality training can be delivered within this time frame, and trainees are increasingly satisfied with their training.

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.

New insight into risk of ankylosing spondylitis

Researchers at the University of Southampton have identified a genetic variation in the ERAP1 enzyme that increases an individual's susceptibility to Ankylosing Spondylitis. Genetic testing for this variation may enable earlier diagnosis and improved management of the condition.

Delayed cancer diagnosis unlikely to be due to poor medical practice

Delayed cancer diagnoses are often caused by limitations in scientific knowledge and the delivery of healthcare, not poor professional performance. Despite this, policy initiatives focusing on GP referral times may be ineffective. Researchers advocate for better information about diagnostic challenges to improve diagnosis and care.

Restricting surgical residents' hours doesn't improve outcomes

A new Northwestern University study found that implementing duty hour restrictions in 2011 did not improve surgery patients' outcomes, but may have hurt patient safety and resident education. The study suggests that these restrictions disrupted the continuity of caring for surgical patients.

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.

Number of medical schools with student-run free clinics has more than doubled

A recent study found that the number of US medical schools with student-run free clinics (SRFCs) has increased by more than half, with 106 institutions participating in the program. The SRFCs provide essential healthcare services to underserved populations and offer valuable educational opportunities for medical students.

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.

E-cigarettes less addictive than cigarettes

Researchers found that e-cigarettes are less addictive than traditional cigarettes, with higher nicotine concentration and longer use leading to greater dependence. The study suggests that e-cigs may have health advantages over cigarettes due to lower levels of toxic substances.