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Science News Archive February 2014


Page 26 of 30

State-of-the art Centre for Innovation in Rail underway

The University of Huddersfield is launching a £4 million Centre for Innovation in Rail, funded by the Government's Regional Growth Fund. The centre will provide world-class training and services to develop critical engineering interfaces in the rail industry, increasing innovation and reducing costs.

Researchers discover rare new species of deep-diving whale

Researchers have identified a new species of beaked whale, Mesoplodon hotaula, based on DNA analysis and physical characteristics of seven stranded specimens. The discovery sheds light on the elusive habits and low abundance of deep-diving whales in the world's oceans.

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.

Forest emissions, wildfires explain why ancient Earth was so hot

A new Yale study reveals that ancient forest emissions and wildfires had a significant impact on global warming, even before human-generated CO2 emissions. The research found that concentrations of tropospheric ozone, aerosol particles, and methane during the Pliocene epoch were twice those observed in the pre-industrial era.

Grasshoppers are what they eat

A new protocol allows researchers to investigate feeding patterns and detect plant DNA in grasshoppers, providing insights into insect-plant interactions. The method enables tracking of plant food movement during consumption and can be completed in under three hours.

Inner workings of a cellular nanomotor revealed

The discovery sheds light on how SecA pushes proteins out of the cell through a series of mechanical steps. This understanding is crucial for developing specific antibiotics and optimizing biotechnological production of human biopharmaceuticals.

Research results show new way for cholesterol treatment

Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered a new way to treat high cholesterol by targeting the sortilin receptor system, which regulates PCSK9 protein levels. This breakthrough may lead to an alternative to statins for patients who cannot tolerate or benefit from them.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Bacterial fibers critical to human and avian infection

A new study examines Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) and finds that bacterial fibers, such as common pilus, play a crucial role in its ability to cause infection and form biofilms. The research also highlights the importance of understanding the virulence traits shared between APEC and human ExPEC strains.

Attractive professional cyclists are faster

A recent study has demonstrated that women's preferences for facial attractiveness in professional cyclists coincide with improved endurance performance. The research, conducted by Erik Postma at the University of Zurich, analyzed over 800 portraits and found that attractive riders fared better during the Tour de France.

ASGE issues guidelines for safety in the gastrointestinal endoscopy unit

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) has issued guidelines for safety in the gastrointestinal endoscopy unit, focusing on infection control and procedure protocols. The guidelines aim to standardize safety efforts within GI endoscopy units, following changes in Ambulatory Surgical Center Conditions for Coverage.

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.

The eyes have it

A study published in Biology Letters reveals that jackdaw eyes are used as a means of communication between members of the same species, helping them defend their nests and chicks from competitors. The research suggests that the bright eyes may be an adaptive trait unique to jackdaws.

Mind over matter: Beating pain and painkillers

Researchers at University of Utah developed Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement, reducing opioid misuse and pain-related impairment in chronic pain patients. The new treatment combines mindfulness training, reappraisal, and savoring to address underlying processes involved in chronic pain and opioid misuse.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NERSC announces second annual HPC Achievement Awards

NERSC recognized four award recipients for their exceptional impact on scientific understanding and society. Victor Ovchinnikov was awarded an Early Career Award for his work on computational modeling of conformational transitions in large biological molecules.

3D mapping biopsy finds 3x prostate cancer of ultrasound-guided biopsy

A new study found that 3D mapping biopsies detect nearly three times as many cancerous zones in prostate cancer patients compared to ultrasound-guided biopsies. The study suggests that 3D mapping biopsies can accurately assess the location, stage, and risk of prostate cancer, leading to more targeted treatment options.

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.

Stopping liver failure from painkiller overdose

University of Adelaide researchers have identified a crucial mechanism that can prevent liver failure resulting from excessive paracetamol consumption. By targeting the transient receptor potential melanostatine-2 (TRPM2) channel, they hope to develop new treatments for paracetamol overdose and potentially other liver-damaging poisonings.

New study finds feeling 'in control' can help you live longer

A new study by Brandeis University and University of Rochester found that individuals with a high sense of control tend to live longer and healthier lives, especially among those with less education. The study suggests that educational experiences can be a key factor in improving one's sense of control.

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.

Are you big pharma's new target market?

A study from Concordia University's John Molson School of Business found that prescription drug brand personality has two distinct dimensions: competence and innovativeness. Consumers prefer overall competence, while innovativeness is associated with uniqueness and originality.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How your memory rewrites the past

A study by Northwestern University found that memory edits the past with present experiences, reframing events to create a story fitting the current world. The hippocampus plays a key role in this process, acting as a film editor and special effects team.

New fruitfly sleep gene promotes the need to sleep

Researchers have discovered a new protein, redeye, that promotes sleep in fruitflies by regulating the amount of time they spend sleeping. The study found that the redeye protein levels oscillate with daily cycles and peak at times of increasing sleep need.

Immune cells need a second opinion

Researchers at the University of Bonn have decoded a new immunoregulatory mechanism controlling defense in urinary tract infections. The mechanism involves two types of macrophages regulating neutrophils, with sentinel macrophages triggering an alarm and helper macrophages providing a safety mechanism to prevent collateral damage.

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.

Diamond defect boosts quantum technology

Researchers discover a defect in synthetic diamond that allows them to measure and potentially manipulate electrons, enabling new 'quantum technology' for faster information processing. The discovery could exponentially increase the computing capacity of tiny machines.

Despite burden, Sjögren's syndrome may not impede function

Patients with Sjögren's syndrome report higher levels of cognitive, psychological, and physical impairment than peers, yet still maintain high functional levels. The study suggests that people with Sjögren's can compensate for the disease's effects and function reasonably well.

How states can encourage web-based health care in hospitals

The study found that 42% of US hospitals use telehealth approaches, with hospitals in states with broad-based reimbursement laws being more likely to adopt these strategies. Telehealth uses such as teleradiology and electronic intensive care units also increase hospital adoption rates.

Good hair day: New technique grows tiny 'hairy' materials at the microscale

Researchers develop method to create long, twisting fibers that assemble themselves at the microscale, growing complex shapes and exhibiting unique properties. The new technique uses epoxy and can be instantly reversible, making it a promising technology for applications like batteries, photovoltaic cells, and sensors.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Tricks of the trade: Study suggests how freelancers can land more jobs

A study by UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business suggests that freelancers who exhibit movement in their past history, taking on similar jobs, are more likely to get hired. The findings aim to better understand the dynamics of virtual labor markets and prepare freelancers to demonstrate their credibility to employers.

A healthy balance

Scientists at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna have created a model to investigate the role of STAT1 in various disease conditions. The genetically modified mice can produce an exact dose of protein, enabling researchers to examine the origins and course of many diseases.

When it comes to memory, quality matters more than quantity

A study by New York University researchers shows that the capacity of working memory is better explained by the quality of memories stored rather than their number. The analysis of over 130,000 subject responses found that memory performance decreased with an increase in recalled information.

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.

Time to act on mobile phone use while driving, say experts

A quarter of crashes in the US are now attributed to mobile phone use, with texting being the riskiest activity. Experts recommend technological solutions to prevent distracted driving, such as software that prevents texting while driving or signal jamming keys.

How safe is the enemy of a citrus-threatening pest?

The University of California, Riverside has found that Tamarixia radiata, a wasp that targets the Asian citrus psyllid, poses no significant environmental risk. The wasp is being used for biological control in Florida, Texas, and other regions to combat the invasive pest.

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.

Mouse study shows gene therapy may be possible cure for Hurler syndrome

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have successfully treated mouse models of Hurler syndrome with gene therapy delivered via platelets and bone marrow cells. The treatment resulted in complete metabolic correction of the disease, normalizing IDUA levels in peripheral organs.

Sun spits out mid-level solar flare

A mid-level solar flare was emitted by the sun on February 3, 2014, reaching its peak at midnight EST. The NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured images of the event.

Teens who consume energy drinks more likely to use alcohol and drugs

A recent study published in Journal of Addiction Medicine found that US adolescents consuming energy drinks have higher rates of alcohol, cigarette, or drug use. The study analyzed data from nearly 22,000 secondary school students and suggested that energy drink users are more likely to report other types of substance use.

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.

Largest evolutionary study of sponges sheds new light on animal evolution

The largest sequencing study to date reveals most higher animal genes are present in all sponge groups, challenging previous thought of complex structures being absent. The study provides a framework for posing new hypotheses on determining gene function in sponges and the evolution of animal complexity.

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.

Science teaching goes viral

A new alternative approach to traditional introductory laboratory courses significantly increases student retention rates. Research published in mBio found that SEA-PHAGES students continued on to their second year at over 90% higher rates than other groups.