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Science News Archive January 2014


Page 15 of 28

Stem cells overcome damage in other cells by exporting mitochondria

Researchers have identified a protein that enables the transfer of mitochondria from stem cells to damaged epithelial cells, rejuvenating their health. This discovery could lead to more effective therapies for lung disease in humans by engineering mesenchymal stem cells to produce healthy mitochondria.

Study reveals the role of sex in spread of deadly disease

Researchers have discovered Leishmania parasites reproduce sexually in wild sand flies, leading to a better understanding of the disease's spread. This breakthrough sheds light on how the parasite becomes genetically adapted for successful transmission by sand flies, resulting in human disease.

Ice-loving sea anemones discovered in Antarctica

Researchers with the ANDRILL Program discovered thousands of small sea anemones burrowed into the underside of the Ross Ice Shelf, a first for a species to live in ice. The newly identified species, Edwardsiella andrillae, can be found hanging from the ice surface, with no clear mechanism for survival or reproduction.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Research sheds new light on heritability of disease

A recent study has made significant progress in understanding the role of DNA in predisposing individuals to diseases such as type 2 diabetes. The research integrated computational methodology with experimentation to identify genetic variants that promote disease by interfering with gene regulation and altering fat cell function.

Important discovery for the diagnosis of genetic diseases

Researchers at IRCM, in collaboration with McGill University, reveal the importance of DNA architecture in controlling gene activity, especially during embryonic development. This discovery could significantly impact genetic disease diagnosis and treatment.

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.

JCI early table of contents for Jan. 16, 2014

New research reveals that macrophage populations mediate tumor cell removal following monoclonal antibody treatment. Additionally, targeting the p57Kip2 pathway in adults with type 2 diabetes may improve β cell function and expand β cell mass.

How metabolism and brain activity are linked

A recent study by McGill University researchers discovered a direct link between brain metabolism and signaling, which may explain why seizures in some epilepsy patients can be controlled with a specially formulated diet. The research also found that the mitochondria of brain cells play a crucial role in energy production and signaling.

Drinking and driving: Unsafe at any level

A US study found that drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) as low as 0.01% are more likely to be blamed for accidents than sober drivers. Drivers in this range were 46% more likely to be solely blamed by accident investigators.

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.

How vision captures sound now somewhat uncertain

Duke researchers found that neurons in the superior colliculus use two different strategies when responding to visual and auditory stimuli, contradicting previous theories. This discovery opens up a mystery regarding the underlying mechanism of how vision captures sound.

Scientists discover 2 proteins that control chandelier cell architecture

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered two proteins that control the structure of chandelier cells, a type of inhibitory neuron important in epilepsy and schizophrenia. The study found that DOCK7 and ErbB4 regulate axonal projections, allowing one cell to block or modify hundreds of other cells.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Early warning: Internet surveillance predicts disease outbreak

Researchers found that internet-based surveillance can detect infectious diseases like Dengue Fever and Influenza up to two weeks earlier than traditional methods. This early detection enables timely public health responses, potentially reducing the spread of epidemics.

NASA satellite imagery shows some punch left in System 94S

System 94S continues to track over Western Australia and the Northern Territory, with NASA's Aqua satellite detecting powerful thunderstorms northwest of the low-pressure center. Heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for the region, with some storms potentially producing heavy rain rates.

EU could cut emissions by 40 percent at moderate cost

A new multi-model analysis suggests that achieving a 40% reduction in EU emissions by 2030 is feasible and would require little to no additional costs. The study, led by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, found that technological innovation could help reduce costs and meet long-term climate targets.

Waterfowl poisoning halved by lead shot prohibition

The use of lead-free steel shot in Spanish wetlands has significantly reduced waterfowl poisoning, with a 50% decrease in lead accumulation detected. Researchers attribute this to the change in material from lead to steel shot.

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.

5,900 natural gas leaks discovered under Washington, D.C.

Researchers from Duke University and Boston University found over 5,900 natural gas leaks under Washington, D.C., with concentrations as high as 500,000 parts per million. The leaks pose explosion risks and release high levels of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

Study identifies drug that could improve treatment of PTSD

Researchers at MIT have discovered a potential new treatment for PTSD by using an HDAC2 inhibitor to make brain memories more malleable. This approach may be more effective than traditional psychotherapy alone in treating patients with well-established traumatic memories.

Carbon nanotube sponge shows improved water clean-up

A new study presents a carbon nanotube sponge that can absorb water contaminants, such as fertilizers, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, with improved efficiency. The sponge's porous structure and rough surface enable it to absorb oils and solvents up to 150 times its initial weight.

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.

45 years on: How serotonin makes schistosome parasites move

A study published in PLOS Pathogens has identified a key player in the movement of schistosome parasites: serotonin receptors. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing targeted treatments against this parasitic flatworm, which affects millions worldwide and kills an estimated 250,000 people annually.

New discovery on Giant Cell Arteritis sheds light on cause

Researchers discovered that despite apparent signs of improvement, GCA patients' neutrophils become severely altered after steroid therapy, potentially leading to stroke or blindness. This finding could lead to better clinical insight into disease progression and therapeutic control for GCA patients.

Silencing inhibitor of cell replication spurs beta cells to reproduce

Researchers replicated human pancreatic beta cells in a mouse model using a silencing inhibitor, showcasing their ability to replicate while maintaining mature properties. The study's findings have implications for developing treatments to enhance beta-cell mass and insulin production for both type 1 and 2 diabetic patients.

The life cycle of a jellyfish (and a way to control it)

Researchers discovered a novel metamorphosis hormone that triggers the transformation of moon jellyfish from polyps to medusas in response to cold temperatures. This understanding may offer new methods for controlling moon jellyfish blooms and preventing ecological damage.

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.

Monitoring inactive hepatitis B patients is cost-effective strategy for Shanghai

A novel study suggests that monitoring inactive chronic hepatitis B (HBV) carriers is a cost-effective strategy for China. The M&T strategy, which includes twice-yearly assessment of HBV and ALT levels, would result in significant health benefits at the population level, including reduced liver cancer and mortality rates.

Fires in South Australia Jan. 16, 2014

Severe bushfires swept across South Australia, driven by record-breaking heat and strong winds. Firefighters struggled to control complex fires in rural areas, aided by additional water bombers from Queensland and Victoria.

Dartmouth-led team gets $8 million grant to research arsenic in children

A Dartmouth-led team has received an $8 million grant to study the effects of arsenic exposure on children's health, including allergies, infections, growth, and neurobehavioral development. The research aims to deepen understanding of environmental contaminants' impact on early life exposure and their long-term health consequences.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Medicaid expansion improves health care services for prison population

A nationwide survey of state prison administrators found that Medicaid enrollment increased in preparation for release, improving access to basic health services. Most systems provided assistance with reenrollment, but termination policies were common, making it challenging for prisoners to access care upon release.

NASA sees deadly System 91W still soaking Philippines

System 91W continues to bring floods and heavy rainfall to the central and southern Philippines, causing 31 deaths and 36 injuries. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center predicts a high chance of System 91W becoming a tropical depression within 24 hours.

Meltwater from Tibetan glaciers floods pastures

Scientists reveal that Tibetan glaciers are losing mass, with a clear loss of around 16 gigatons per year. However, some glaciers in the central and north-western part of the plateau have grown in mass, contradicting previous data.

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.

Soil microbes alter DNA in response to warming

Scientists found that warming soil by 2 degrees Celsius alters microbial DNA to enhance carbon handling. The study reveals complex interactions between plants and microbes, impacting climate change predictions.

Silver nanowire sensors hold promise for prosthetics, robotics

Researchers at NC State University have developed wearable, stretchable sensors using silver nanowires that can measure strain, pressure, human touch, and bioelectronic signals. These sensors hold promise for creating responsive prosthetics and robots that can interact with their environment.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

In the blink of an eye

Researchers at MIT found that the human brain can identify concepts in images presented for 13 milliseconds, challenging previous assumptions about visual processing speed. The study suggests that

Prion discovery could help keep deadly brain diseases in check

Scientists have discovered a natural protective response in brain cells that can minimize the production of diseased prion proteins, potentially helping to prevent or delay neurological diseases such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. The study also found that this mechanism may be relevant to other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Fetal exposure to nicotine increases long-term risk of obesity

Research reveals that fetal exposure to nicotine increases long-term risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome in offspring, as the liver produces more triglycerides. The study found that pregnant rats exposed to nicotine had an increased risk of developing these conditions later in life.

Brain on autopilot

Researchers analyzed 1.6 billion connections within the brain and found highest agreement between structure and information flow in the default mode network, responsible for inward-focused thinking. The study suggests that the structural architecture of the brain ensures automatic switching to something useful when not being used.

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.

Targeting a cell cycle inhibitor promotes beta cell replication

Researchers found that silencing the gene encoding p57 Kip2 in adult human islets promotes beta cell replication. These new cells exhibit properties associated with normal beta cells, providing a potential explanation for excessive beta cell expansion in children with focal hyperinsulinism.

Natural 3-D counterpart to graphene discovered

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have found a new form of quantum matter called a three-dimensional topological Dirac semi-metal (3DTDS) in sodium bismuthate, promising faster transistors and compact hard drives. The discovery features intriguing non-saturating linear magnetoresistance.

Loss of biodiversity limits toxin degradation

A moderate loss of soil microbes may compromise key ecosystem functions and lower toxin degradation. Research found that specialized bacterial functions are not as effective without a rich diversity of soil bacteria.

Sludge as new sentinel for human health risks

A study by Arjun Venkatesan and Rolf Halden found that sludge contains 123 distinct CECs, including high-production volume chemicals like flame-retardants and antimicrobials. Analysis of these chemicals in sludge may provide a useful surrogate for assessing human exposure and bioaccumulation.

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.

Renewable chemical ready for biofuels scale-up

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process to create concentrated sugar streams using gamma valerolactone, which can be converted into cellulosic ethanol and drop-in biofuels. The process converts 85-95% of starting material to sugars suitable for yeast fermentation.

Thousands of potentially harmful natural gas leaks found in Washington, DC

Researchers have mapped nearly 6,000 pipeline leaks in Washington, D.C., with high concentrations found at 19 sites, including some manholes with methane levels up to 500,000 parts per million. The study highlights the need for financial incentives and targeted programs to reduce leaks and replace old cast-iron pipes.

Unraveling misfolded molecules using 'reprogrammed' yeast protein

Researchers have discovered a way to unravel misfolded proteins using 'reprogrammed' Hsp104, a common yeast protein. The study found that minor mutations in the middle domain of Hsp104 can unlock its clump-busting capabilities, offering a potential therapeutic opportunity for brain diseases such as ALS and Alzheimer's.

The symphony of life, revealed

A new study uses a technique developed by UB physics professor Andrea Markelz to observe lysozyme protein vibrations, finding they persist in molecules like the 'ringing of a bell'. This discovery opens up a whole new way of studying life's basic cellular processes.

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.

Increased mobility thanks to robotic rehab

A new study by ETH Zurich researchers shows that robotic therapy outperforms conventional physiotherapy in improving sensory-motor function and arm mobility. Robot-assisted therapy enables patients to carry out exercises independently and motivates them via computer game elements, leading to better results in terms of mobility.

Findings bolster fiber's role in colon health

Researchers found that fiber activates Gpr109a receptors, which reduce inflammation in the colon and prevent cancer. Mega-doses of niacin may also help protect the colon and prevent conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

CCNY team models sudden thickening of complex fluids

The CCNY team created a model that predicts how resistance changes in relation to stirring speed, which can help improve the processing of materials in suspension. The model modifies classical fluid mechanics approaches to include forces resulting from friction, allowing for accurate reproduction of experimental observations.

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.