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Science News Archive December 2014


Page 26 of 28

Study examines use of drugs to strengthen bones for men receiving ADT

A study found that prescriptions for bisphosphonates remain low even among men at high risk of fractures on androgen deprivation therapy. The study suggests limited awareness among clinicians about optimal bone health management, particularly in men with prior osteoporosis or fragility fracture.

Finding the simple patterns in a complex world: ANU media release

A new analysis method called fractal Fourier analysis breaks down complicated signals into well-understood building blocks, similar to conventional Fourier analysis. This approach could help scientists better understand natural phenomena like nerve impulses and brain waves.

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.

Cover crops can sequester soil organic carbon

A 12-year University of Illinois study shows that cover crops increase soil organic carbon stock without improving crop yields. The practice is found to sequester the most soil organic carbon in no-till systems with hairy vetch and cereal rye cover crops.

Vitamin supplement successfully prevents noise-induced hearing loss

Researchers found that nicotinamide riboside (NR) prevents noise-induced hearing loss by increasing the activity of protein sirtuin 3, which is critical for mitochondrial function. NR also showed promise in preventing long-term and short-term hearing loss, regardless of when it was administered.

See it, touch it, feel it

A new technology has been developed that allows for the creation of an invisible 3D haptic shape using ultrasound. This innovation enables surgeons to explore complex medical imaging data, such as CT scans, in a more immersive and tactile manner.

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.

A better look at the chemistry of interfaces

Researchers developed a new X-ray spectroscopy technique called SWAPPS, combining standing-wave and ambient-pressure photoelectron spectroscopy to study heterogeneous interfaces with sub-nanometer resolution. This allows for the measurement of elemental and chemical composition with enhanced sensitivity in narrow interfacial regions.

Mediterranean diet linked to longer life

A Mediterranean diet high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil has been associated with longer telomeres, a biomarker of slower aging. The study found that adherence to the diet was significantly linked to longer telomeres, corresponding to 1.5 years of telomere ageing.

The hacker culture: Creatively overcoming limitations in programming

This book explores how European users appropriated microcomputers and forged countercultures to challenge individual ownership and celebrate shared use. The 'ludological' element of mischief and humor played a crucial role in shaping hacker culture, offering new insights into the history of technology.

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.

Macho stereotypes put off men as well as women

A new study found that macho stereotypes discourage both men and women from pursuing traditionally masculine occupations. The research suggests that increasing the appeal of these jobs to a more diverse range of men could help attract more women, leading to greater equality in the future.

Diagnosis targets in primary care are misleading and unethical

A senior GP argues that UK government plans to extend diagnosis targets in primary care to six other conditions are problematic and unscientific. The data on which they are based is flawed, leading to potential overdiagnosis and unnecessary tests and treatments.

Atmospheric carbon dioxide used for energy storage products

Scientists have created an innovative way to utilize atmospheric carbon dioxide to produce high-value materials for energy storage products. This breakthrough in nanotechnology enables the creation of nanoporous graphene, which has exceptional electrical conductivity and surface area.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

3-D mammography improves cancer detection in dense breasts

A new study found that digital breast tomosynthesis significantly increases cancer detection in women with dense breasts. In a population-based mammography screening program, tomosynthesis improved cancer detection rates by 30-40%, particularly for invasive cancers and those with fatty breasts.

Blows to head damage brain's 'garbage truck,' accelerate dementia

A new study reveals that traumatic brain injury can accelerate dementia by disrupting the brain's waste removal system, specifically the glymphatic system. This impaired system allows toxic proteins to accumulate in the brain, setting the stage for neurodegenerative diseases.

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.

Study finds insects play important role in dealing with garbage on NYC streets

A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that insects and other arthropods consume large amounts of garbage on NYC streets, including 2,100 pounds of discarded junk food per year. The researchers found that pavement ants are particularly efficient foragers in urban environments and compete with rats to eat human garbage.

New cause of child brain tumor condition identified

A new study has identified the SUFU gene mutation as a major contributor to Gorlin syndrome-associated childhood medulloblastoma, significantly increasing the risk of brain tumors in children with this condition. This finding has major implications for treatment and screening protocols for children with Gorlin syndrome.

Sons' intelligence linked to fathers' criminal history

Research reveals that sons of fathers with criminal records have lower cognitive abilities, but the link is explained by genetic factors shared between father and son. The study suggests that having a father with antisocial behavior may not directly affect a child's cognitive development.

Vitamin D deficiency, depression linked in international study

Researchers found a link between vitamin D and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), suggesting vitamin D may play a regulatory role in SAD development. Vitamin D levels fluctuate seasonally with sunlight availability, which correlates with the onset of SAD symptoms.

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.

Why don't children belong to the clean plate club?

New Cornell research aggregated six studies of 326 elementary school-aged children, showing they eat about 60% of what they serve themselves. Children's eating habits are still learning and developing, with parents' forcing them to finish food not being natural or encouraged.

Preference for gravid females makes rare iguana consumption unsustainable

A recent survey in Honduras found that residents prefer to hunt and consume female Valle de Aguán spiny-tailed iguanas carrying eggs. This unsustainable practice is threatening the species' extinction. The study recommends educating residents on sustainable harvesting methods to mitigate the impact.

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.

University of Toronto chemists identify role of soil in pollution control

A new study by University of Toronto atmospheric chemist Jennifer Murphy reveals that soil plays a crucial role in the production of nitrous acid, a key pollutant in air quality. The research suggests that soils can take up nitrous acid at night and release it into the atmosphere the next day through reaction with stronger acids.

E-signatures less trusted than handwritten signatures

A new study finds that people are more likely to distrust e-signatures than hand-signed documents, with those having fewer personal characteristics perceived as less valid. This lag between technological advancement and psychological reaction highlights the need for caution in adoption.

Strange galaxy perplexes astronomers

A team of astronomers has discovered a rare type of galaxy, named J1649+2635, that has prominent 'jets' of subatomic particles propelled outward from its core at nearly the speed of light. The unusual feature is unexpected in spiral galaxies.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Identifying the cellular origin of fibrosis

Fibrotic diseases cause up to 45 percent of deaths worldwide. Researchers identified Gli1 cells around blood vessels as responsible for fibrosis. Abating these cells improved organ function in mice with kidney and cardiac fibrosis.

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.

Mediterranean diet associated with longer telomeres

Researchers found that women who follow the Mediterranean diet have longer telomeres, which are repetitive DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes. The study, published in The BMJ, suggests that adherence to this diet may help buffer telomere shortening and promote health and longevity.

Patients take control of their medical exam records

A study by RSNA found that patients who have direct access to their imaging exams report high satisfaction with improved healthcare quality and enhanced patient engagement. The use of Internet-based interoperable image exchange systems allows patients to securely store, manage, and share their imaging records.

Brain representations of social thoughts accurately predict autism diagnosis

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University used brain-reading techniques to identify altered 'thought-markers' of autism, detecting changes in the way certain concepts are represented in the brains of autistic individuals. This biological approach shows promise for complementing clinical assessments and enabling quicker diagnoses.

Antacids linked to better survival in head and neck cancer

A study of 596 patients found that those taking antacid medications had significantly better overall survival rates than non-users. The results suggest that proton pump inhibitors and histamine 2 blockers may have a favorable impact on patient outcomes.

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.

Lung cancer risk model refines decisions to screen

A new lung cancer risk model, PLCOm2012, refines decisions to screen individuals for annual CT scans, identifying a risk threshold for selecting high-risk smokers. The study found that this threshold resulted in higher sensitivity and specificity than the USPSTF criteria.

Turn back the molecular clock, say Argentina's plant fossils

A team of researchers found that most fossil plant lineages from Patagonia are older than the dates predicted by molecular clocks. This study refutes a widely-held idea about how plants and animals arrived at their current distributions, suggesting that molecular clocks may be biased.

Chemists fabricate novel rewritable paper

Researchers have created novel rewritable paper based on color switching property of commercial chemicals, allowing for up to 20 erasures without significant loss in contrast or resolution. The paper has potential applications in meeting increasing global needs for sustainability and environmental conservation.

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.

How early trauma influences behavior

Research suggests that early-life stress can have positive effects on behavior, such as improved flexibility and goal-oriented behavior, which can be passed down through generations via molecular pathways. This study reveals the beneficial impact of moderate stress in childhood, leading to better coping strategies in adulthood.

'Smart dust' technology could reshape space telescopes

Scientists at RIT and NASA are exploring a new type of space telescope using swarms of particles controlled by laser to form large-aperture lenses. This concept could lead to unprecedented resolution and detail in astrophysical imaging and remote sensing.

Crime, British Muslims and their relationships with the police

A study by Julian Hargreaves from Cambridge's Centre of Islamic Studies found that British Muslim communities may not be as victimized by violent crime or dissatisfied with the police as widely believed. Positive attitudes towards the police were also found, with 61.2% of respondents rating their local police as good or excellent.

Natural 'high' could avoid chronic marijuana use

A Vanderbilt University study suggests replenishing 2-AG levels in the brain could alleviate mood and anxiety disorders. By restoring normal levels of 2-AG, researchers may have found a potential therapeutic strategy for treating depression and anxiety.

Experts question aspects of certain Ebola guidelines

The authors of a Transfusion commentary argue that forgoing routine lab tests may compromise patients' health more than any reduction in the risk of transmission. Experts recommend implementing well-characterized infection prevention and control recommendations to provide a safe environment for both patients and employees.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Many people with missing teeth don't need dentures

A study of over 2,700 Australians found that many people with tooth loss do not need dentures as long as they have a sufficient number and type of remaining teeth. The researchers suggest allocating resources to prevent further tooth loss, diagnostic services, and follow-up care instead.

New research highlights the key role of ozone in climate change

A recent study led by the University of Cambridge found that ozone plays a crucial role in global warming, reducing surface warming by approximately 20% compared to most models. This discovery underscores the importance of including ozone feedback in climate models for more accurate predictions.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.