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Science News Archive February 2014


Page 4 of 30

Finding a few foes among billions of cellular friends

Researchers have developed an ultrasensitive nanoprobe that can detect just four circulating tumor cells in the bloodstream, surpassing traditional enzyme-based methods. This breakthrough system uses Fe3O4 nanoparticles to electrochemically sense cancer cells and offers a robust solution for early cancer detection.

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.

Can a simple handshake predict cancer survival rates?

A new study published in Supportive Care in Cancer has linked handgrip strength to survival rates among patients with advanced-stage cancers. The test measures peak grip strength using a simple device called a dynamometer, providing a direct assessment of body strength and helping doctors determine interventions needed.

A predictive fitness model for influenza

Researchers developed a predictive fitness model for influenza, predicting optimal viral strain combinations for vaccines. The model considers innovation and conservation of viruses, providing insights into the complexity of influenza evolution.

Four GOES-R instruments ready for integration

The first four GOES-R instruments - ABI, SUVI, EXIS, and SEISS - have been delivered to Lockheed Martin for integration. These instruments will improve NOAA's ability to observe weather in near real-time, providing critical data on weather patterns, oceans, and space weather.

Suicide among apparently well-functioning young men

Researchers found that these young men had developed a fragile, achievement-based self-esteem in adulthood, leaving them vulnerable to rejection and failure. This vulnerability led to unbearable thoughts of shame, anger, and a life not worth living.

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.

Artificial muscles that do the twist

Scientists have created a low-cost, programmable soft actuated material that replicates the biological motion of the heart's twisting action, a key indicator of heart health. The material mimics the complex motion of the heart muscle, which is essential for efficient blood pumping.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Superabsorbing design may lower manufacturing cost of thin film solar cells

Researchers at NC State University developed a 'superabsorbing' design that improves light absorption efficiency of thin film solar cells by decreasing semiconductor material thickness. The design, which looks like an onion, can absorb up to 90% of available solar energy using just a 10nm thick layer of amorphous silicon.

Febrile illnesses in children most often due to viral infections

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals that viral infections are the primary cause of febrile illnesses in Tanzanian children. In most cases, no treatment with antimalarials or antibiotics is required. This finding has significant implications for improving the rational use of antimicrobials and reducing c...

Taming hurricanes

Research by the University of Delaware and Stanford University shows that offshore wind turbines can buffer damage to coastal cities during hurricanes. The study found that large wind farms with tens of thousands of turbines can slow down hurricane winds, reduce wave heights, and decrease storm surge.

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.

Research maze puts images on floor, where rodents look

Rodents learn visual tasks in a fourth to sixth the number of trials when stimuli are projected onto the floor, outperforming traditional wall projections. Automated visual cognitive research tasks with neural activity recording and brain stimulation can be performed efficiently.

MSU advances algae's viability as a biofuel

Michigan State University scientists develop a standardized algae growing platform that simulates dynamic natural environments to cultivate strains capable of producing oil in real-world settings. The ePBR system has inspired the launch of a spinoff company and shows promise for scalable algae biofuel production.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Researchers trap moths with plant-produced sex pheromone

Researchers have developed a method of insect control using plants that emit sex pheromones mimicking those naturally produced by moths. The study, published in Nature Communications, shows that plants can be engineered to produce these pheromones, attracting male moths and effectively trapping them.

Closest, brightest supernova in decades is also a little weird

Scientists studying the closest, brightest supernova in decades discovered it exhibited unusual characteristics, including rapid brightening. The findings may provide new clues to how stars explode and improve distance measurements, constraining the nature of dark energy.

Research shows ovulation motivates women to outdo other women

New research from UTSA and University of Minnesota finds that ovulating women are less willing to share with other women but more likely to prioritize their relative gains. This study has implications for marketers, consumers, and researchers and highlights the importance of considering hormonal fluctuations in decision-making.

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.

Major enigma solved in atmospheric chemistry

Scientists have found that plant emissions can oxidize to form organic aerosols, which can affect cloud formation and sunlight scattering. The discovery bridges a major gap in knowledge on atmospheric chemistry and has implications for predicting future climate development.

Fighting the rise of the app attackers

Researchers are studying behavior of Android apps to develop techniques to spot malicious apps and enrich devices to counteract attacks. The study aims to address the growing threat of colluding apps that can bypass security measures and steal sensitive information.

Spotted seal study reveals sensitive hearing in air and water

Researchers found that spotted seals have remarkably sensitive hearing in both air and water, detecting airborne sounds as well as terrestrial carnivores. In water, they hear almost as well as fully aquatic species like dolphins and porpoises, with a range of seven octaves.

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.

JILA physicists discover 'quantum droplet' in semiconductor

Researchers at JILA discovered a new quasiparticle, called a 'quantum droplet', which has both quantum and liquid-like characteristics. The droplets are stable enough for future studies on interactions between light and highly correlated states of matter.

Study finds social-media messages grow terser during major events

During major events like elections and sporting events, social media messages are found to be significantly shorter in length as the volume of activity increases. This phenomenon is observed across various social media platforms, including Twitter, which has a character limit of 140 characters.

Surge in designer drugs, tainted 'E' poses lethal risks

New research warns Canadians about the deadly risks of designer drug use, citing 10 new drugs per year and toxic contaminants like PMA. Experts call for education to help people understand the health risks, emphasizing that there is no safe dose of ecstasy.

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.

New gas-phase compounds form organic particle ingredients

Scientists have detected extremely low-volatility organic compounds for the first time, contributing to aerosol formation that affects climate and air quality. The discovery may explain discrepancies between observations and theories about volatile organic compound conversion into atmospheric aerosol.

$1.6 million to study 'feel-good' brain chemical and hearing

A new study will explore the connection between dopamine, a 'feel-good' brain chemical, and hearing loss. The research aims to develop better therapies for people with communication disorders, including those with Parkinson's disease. The $1.6 million grant will fund a team led by Christine Portfors at Washington State University.

Climate change causes high, but predictable, extinction risks

A study of 36 species found that climate change increases extinction risk by 28% by 2100, but existing conservation methods can identify vulnerable species. The research identifies key factors such as small range and population size that predispose species to high extinction risk.

Photopharmacology: Optoswitches turn pain off and sight on

Scientists at LMU developed photoreactive compounds that modulate nerve-cell function, opening new routes to treat neurological diseases like chronic pain and visual impairment. They created hybrid photoreceptors that respond to light, potentially leading to new therapies for these conditions.

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 data book outlines Hispanic/Latino health

The National Institutes of Health's largest and most comprehensive study on Hispanic and Latino health has outlined key findings, including diverse risk factors for disease across different ancestry groups. The study also highlights areas where Hispanics and Latinos live longer than the general population.

Low birth weight reduces ability to metabolize drugs

Research from Oregon State University finds that low birth weight individuals have impaired kidney function, affecting drug excretion and metabolism. This may lead to reduced effectiveness of medications in treating diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

Tree branch filters water

Researchers found that pine tree sapwood can filter out more than 99% of E. coli bacteria from contaminated water, but has a particle size limit. The small-branch filtration system produced clean drinking water suitable for one person per day.

Humans have a poor memory for sound

Researchers at the University of Iowa found that humans tend to forget sounds they hear, rather than visual or tactile information. The study suggests that our brain may use separate pathways to process auditory information, and that alternative strategies like increased mental repetition may be needed to improve memory.

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.

Over-80s often over-treated for stroke prevention

A recent study suggests that people in their 80s are often prescribed stroke-prevention medications despite low risk, leading to unnecessary side effects. Doctors must rethink common prescribing patterns to prioritize patient well-being over prevention.

Cows are smarter when raised in pairs

A new study by University of British Columbia researchers found that dairy calves learn better when housed together, adapting faster to complex farm technologies. The 'pairing calves' approach reduces learning difficulties and improves task completion rates compared to individual housing.

Antidote can deactivate new form of heparin

Researchers created a synthetic version of low-molecular-weight heparin that can be counteracted by an existing drug and cleared by the liver, not the kidneys. This new form of heparin is safer for patients with poor kidney function, reducing the risk of uncontrolled bleeding.

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.

Reproductive coercion, intimate partner violence prevalent

A recent study found that reproductive coercion and co-occurring intimate partner violence are prevalent among women in this demographic. The study's results suggest that healthcare providers should address reproductive coercion with their patients, tailoring family planning discussions and recommendations accordingly.

Fox Chase researchers discover new mechanism of gene regulation

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have discovered a new mechanism of gene regulation that involves the modification of histones, leading to the activation of PARP1 and exposure of specific genes. This finding has significant implications for cancer treatment and may lead to the development of more effective therapies.

Beta-catenin alters T cells in lasting and harmful ways

The study reveals that beta-catenin increases in certain types of T cells, causing chronic inflammation in the intestine and colon, leading to cancer. The researchers also found that beta-catenin signaling alters the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory T cells.

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.