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Science News Archive February 2014


Page 1 of 30

Detection of water vapor in the atmosphere of a hot jupiter

Scientists have made the first detection of water in the atmosphere of a hot Jupiter, tau Boötis b, using a novel technique that expands on the radial velocity method. The study confirms the presence of water vapor and also reveals the planet's mass, which was previously difficult to determine.

Effects of meth use on brain metabolism, sleep studied

Chronic methamphetamine use is linked to excessive glucose utilization in the brain, paired with daytime sleepiness. The paradox of these symptoms can be explained by a biochemical process that occurs during sleep, cleaning up unnecessary connections between brain cells.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Competition breeds new fish species, study finds

A recent study found that competition between fish species in Lake Tanganyika drives the formation of new species. Two genetically distinct ecomorphs of a species have been identified, with large and small individuals occupying different habitats.

To teach scientific reproducibility, start young

Researchers propose using software like R Markdown to teach students the concept of reproducibility, which can lead to more transparent science. The study found that introductory statistics students who used R Markdown for homework assignments showed gradual gains in preference and no negative impact on grades.

York physicists pave the way for more energy efficient technology

Researchers from the University of York have created a new class of magnetic materials and devices with improved performance and power efficiency. The breakthrough uses all-optical thermally induced magnetic switching (TIMS) to change the magnetic state of the material, reducing energy consumption.

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.

Worm-like mite species discovered on Ohio State's campus

A previously unidentified microscopic species of mite, Osperalycus tenerphagus, has been discovered on The Ohio State University campus. The mite, dubbed the 'Buckeye Dragon Mite', has a unique oral structure and is an extremophile, adapted to living in adverse environments.

Peat soils as gigantic batteries

Researchers discovered that peat soils can act like gigantic batteries, using humic substances to accept electrons under anoxic conditions. When oxygen enters, these substances release electrons to oxygen, thereby regenerating their capacity to accept electrons and suppressing methane formation.

Burmese pythons pose little risk to people in Everglades

A recent study found that Burmese pythons present a low risk to people in Everglades National Park, with all reported incidents involving biologists being minor and non-fatal. The study suggests that pythons may abort strikes upon realizing the size of their potential prey, indicating they can assess size mid-strike.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Unearthing key function of plant hormone

Researchers have discovered a key function of plant hormone auxin in regulating the organization of the cell's inner skeletons. Auxin interacts with transmembrane kinases to activate ROP GTPases, which affect cytoskeleton structure.

BNI study reveal unexpected findings

A randomized, double-blind trial of 621 adults found that Bevacizuman did not prolong survival for newly diagnosed glioblastoma patients. The results contradict earlier studies showing the drug's effectiveness in other diseases.

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.

Study links poor sleep quality to reduced brain gray matter in Gulf War vets

A new study found an association between poor sleep quality and reduced gray matter volume in the brain's frontal lobe of Gulf War veterans. The study controlled for comorbid psychiatric conditions and found that poorer subjective sleep quality was associated with reduced total cortical and regional frontal lobe gray matter volumes.

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.

Diabetes and obesity more common in socioeconomically deprived regions

Research finds that living in a socioeconomically deprived region increases the risk of diabetes and obesity, regardless of individual social status. The study analyzed data from over 33,000 people and found significant correlations between regional deprivation and type 2 diabetes and obesity rates.

Tropical Cyclone 16P forms near Fiji

Tropical Cyclone 16P formed near Fiji, bringing heavy rainfall and flooding to the region. The cyclone was centered about 170 nautical miles northeast of Suva, Fiji, with maximum sustained winds near 35 knots.

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.

Giant sunspot makes third trip across the sun

A giant sunspot has reappeared over the sun's horizon, marking its third trip around the sun in approximately 27 days. This region has produced two X-class solar flares and numerous mid-level flares during its previous trips.

Ultra-fast laser spectroscopy lights way to understanding new materials

Scientists at the Ames Laboratory used ultra-fast laser spectroscopy to examine the electronic properties of iron-based superconductors, finding evidence of an electronically-driven nematic order. This breakthrough sheds light on the transition from normal to superconducting states and holds potential for advancing energy technologies.

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.

A molecular ballet under the X-ray laser

Scientists used the world's most powerful X-ray laser to take snapshots of individual free molecules, overcoming hurdles in imaging single molecules. The technique enables the study of ultra-fast molecular dynamics with unprecedented precision and detail.

Emergency alert in the cell

Researchers have uncovered a complex emergency program designated to save single cells and thus the organism itself when exposed to life-threatening conditions. The protein HSF1 plays a central role in coordinating this process.

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.

UCLA study finds robotic-assisted prostate surgery offers better cancer control

A UCLA study published in European Urology found that robotic-assisted prostate surgery resulted in 5% fewer positive margins and a one-third reduction in the likelihood of needing additional cancer therapies. This suggests that robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy may offer better cancer control with potentially lower downstream costs.

Tackling tumors with space station research

Researchers have discovered that some tumors behave less aggressively in microgravity compared to on Earth, sparking hope for new cancer treatments. The unique conditions of space exploration offer insights into genetic and cellular processes that cannot be replicated on land.

Researchers identify brain differences linked to insomnia

Chronic insomnia is characterized by increased brain plasticity and activity in the motor cortex, which distinguishes poor sleepers from good ones. The study suggests that TMS may be used to diagnose and potentially treat insomnia through reducing excitability.

Retention leads to discipline problems in other kids

A Duke University-led study of nearly 80,000 middle-schoolers found that students who repeat a grade contribute to a disruptive environment, leading to increased suspensions and discipline problems. The study suggests that supporting older and retained students through tutoring and peer mentoring can improve the entire school climate.

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.

GOES-West satellite eyes soggy storm approaching California

A swirling Eastern Pacific Ocean storm system is heading towards California, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to the drought-stricken state. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the region, warning of potential flash flooding and debris flows in areas that recently burned from wildfires.

NASA satellite sees great freeze over Great Lakes

The NASA satellite captured a record-breaking freeze on the Great Lakes, with 80.3% of the lake's surface covered in ice. This is the most extensive ice cover since 1994, and scientists attribute it to persistently low temperatures across the region.

3-D imaging sheds light on Apert syndrome development

Apert syndrome is caused by FGFR2 mutations, leading to early bone fusion, mid-facial deformation, and cognitive impairment. Researchers found that 3D imaging can estimate growth patterns and anticipate surgical outcomes, potentially improving patient-centered care.

Dangerous mistaken identity

Researchers at TUM have found that the heat shock protein Hsp90 binds to prefolded tau proteins, which are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. This discovery provides important insights into the mechanisms underlying the disease and may lead to new therapies.

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 X-ray living cancer cells

Scientists at DESY's PETRA III research light source used nanodiffraction to study living cancer cells, showing clear differences in their internal structures compared to chemically fixed cells. The technique enabled the investigation of living cells in their natural environment using hard X-rays.

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.

Early strokes leave many young adults with long-lasting disability

Research shows that one-third of young adults who survive a stroke are unable to live independently or need assistance with daily activities 10 years after their stroke. The type of stroke and subsequent recurrent strokes can also impact functional outcomes, highlighting the need for effective interventions.

Making treatment of rare blood disorder more affordable and effective

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have identified a potential new strategy to treat paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, a rare and life-threatening blood disorder. By inhibiting the complement cascade, they hope to create a cost-effective treatment option that can prevent both hemolysis and immune cell recognition.

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.

Wakefield Court Rolls series

Volume 16 of the Wakefield Court Rolls series edited by Dr John A. Hargreaves details proceedings from 1812 to 1813, showing how the textile industry continued to thrive despite Luddite attacks and economic hardship. The volume includes transcripts of wills, revealing new information on women's rights and property deals.

CU-led study says Bering Land Bridge a long-term refuge for early Americans

A CU-led study bolsters the theory that early Americans may have been isolated on the Bering Land Bridge for thousands of years before spreading throughout the Americas. The research links genetics to paleoecological evidence, suggesting a population of hundreds or thousands lived in central Beringia for 5,000 years or more.

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.