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Science News Archive January 2014


Page 3 of 28

What your company can learn from NASA tragedies

A new study by Brigham Young University researcher Peter Madsen finds that emphasizing project significance and safety can increase recognition of near-misses. This approach has been effective at NASA, where it improved safety reporting after the Columbia shuttle tragedy.

Integration brings quantum computer a step closer

A team of researchers has successfully integrated key components of a quantum computer onto a silicon microchip, paving the way for the development of a practical quantum computer. The breakthrough enables the creation of a photon-based device capable of performing complex calculations, potentially rivaling modern computing hardware.

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.

Signs point to sharp rise in drugged driving fatalities

Non-alcohol drug prevalence in fatally injured drivers has increased significantly, particularly for marijuana, which tripled in 10-year period, according to Columbia University researchers studying toxicological testing data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Antibiotic 'smart bomb' can target specific strains of bacteria

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel approach to eliminate specific strains of bacteria using the CRISPR-Cas system. This method has shown promise in lab tests, eliminating targeted bacteria without affecting good bacteria and demonstrating precision in targeting different species.

Study examines effects of corporate downsizing on managerial diversity

A study by Alexandra Kalev found that corporate downsizing negatively impacts managerial diversity, particularly for white women and blacks, but performance-based layoffs mitigate this effect. The research also highlights the importance of internal legal counsel in promoting diversity during downsizing.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Immune drug helps patients with frequently replapsing kidney disease

A single dose of rituximab significantly reduces kidney relapses in children and young adults with frequently-replapsing idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, allowing for discontinuation of standard immunosuppressive medications. The treatment is also well-tolerated and improves kidney function.

Self-aligning DNA wires for application in nanoelectronics

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf develop a simpler method to align DNA nanostructures on surfaces, enabling the creation of self-aligned nanotubes with potential applications in electronic circuits. The technique uses electrostatic interactions and natural pattern formation to achieve alignment with high yield.

Engineered virus is effective against triple negative breast cancer cells

Researchers have discovered a potential cure for triple negative breast cancer using a vaccinia virus engineered to make cancer cells produce radioiodine. The discovery, published in The FASEB Journal, has shown promising results in laboratory experiments and offers new hope for treating deadly and resistant forms of cancer.

Study uncovers molecular keys to invasive bladder cancer

Researchers have identified 32 genes with recurring defects in muscle-invasive bladder cancer, offering a roadmap for targeted treatments. The study also found frequent alterations in chromatin regulation and viral DNA involvement in bladder cancer development.

A digital test for toxic genes

Tel Aviv University researchers developed a computer algorithm that predicts which genetic genes are lethal to cells when overexpressed. The new algorithm, called Expression Dependent Gene Effects (EDGE), helps guide metabolic engineering to produce new chemicals in more efficient ways.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Single gene separates queen from workers

Researchers have identified a single gene, Ultrabithorax (Ubx), that determines the distinct leg features of worker honey bees, enabling them to collect and transport pollen. The gene plays a critical role in the evolution of social behavior among honey bees, separating queens from workers.

Neanderthal lineages excavated from modern human genomes

A substantial fraction of the Neanderthal genome persists in modern human populations, with over 20 percent surviving in DNA from 665 people in Europe and East Asia. This finding suggests that significant amounts of population-level DNA sequences may be obtained from extinct groups without fossilized remains.

ADHD medication saves lives on the road

A large registry study found that up to half of transport accidents involving adult men with ADHD could be avoided if they were taking medication. The results demonstrate a significant decrease in risk of serious transport accidents among men with ADHD who received medication, with a 45% increased risk compared to those without ADHD.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Clinical study finds 'bubble CPAP' boosts neonatal survival rates

A clinical study published in PLOS ONE found that the low-cost 'bubble CPAP' device increased neonatal survival rates by 27% compared to standard care, saving an estimated 178,000 lives annually. The technology, developed by Rice University students, is a cheaper alternative to conventional CPAP machines.

Sponge bacteria, a chemical factory

Researchers have discovered a new type of bacterium in sponges that produces bioactive substances, including polyketides and peptides. The discovery, published in Nature, sheds light on the complex symbiotic relationships between sponges and bacteria, and could lead to breakthroughs in medical treatment.

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.

Obesity-induced fatty liver disease reversed in mice

Researchers discovered that valproic acid activates AMPK, which reduces fat accumulation in the liver and lowers blood sugar levels in obese mice. Treated mice showed decreased blood sugar levels and a stabilization of weight.

Protein synthesis and chance

Researchers at SISSA have developed a mathematical model of protein synthesis, revealing that the process is more stochastic than previously thought. This new understanding sheds light on the random component influencing protein translation times, which can affect the efficiency of the process.

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.

Study: Neuroscientists use lightwaves to improve brain tumor surgery

Researchers developed a method using Raman spectroscopy to distinguish normal brain tissue from brain tumor tissue, achieving up to 99.5% accuracy in distinguishing between the two. The technique has the potential to improve outcomes for patients undergoing surgery to remove glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a deadly type of brain tumor.

A sensor detects salt on the road to avoid excess

A sensor has been developed to detect residual salt on road surfaces, allowing for preventive action to avoid excess salt application. This can reduce financial waste and minimize environmental impact by protecting vegetation and aquifers.

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.

Measuring brain activity in premature infants

Researchers have developed a new methodology to measure brain activity in newborns and children, particularly those born prematurely. The technique uses Event-Related Potential (ERP) and is child-friendly, allowing for the investigation of cortical processing of touch and speech sounds.

Connectedness, human use of buildings shape indoor bacterial communities

A study published in PLOS ONE found that architectural design characteristics, human use, and ventilation sources influence bacterial community structure in buildings. Dust samples revealed over 30,000 types of bacteria, with distinct communities found in high-traffic areas and restrooms containing organisms associated with the human gut.

Study finds mammography beneficial for younger women

A study found that routine screening mammography in women aged 40-49 leads to earlier diagnosis of smaller tumors and reduced chemotherapy use. The researchers concluded that annual screenings starting at age 40 saves lives by identifying breast cancers in initial stages.

DNA nanoarchitecture research underway at Rutgers-Camden

A Rutgers-Camden scholar is working on a Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative project to create artificial DNA nanoarchitectures that mimic natural functions. The goal is to aid in disease diagnostics and improve energy conversion, such as converting cellulose or sugar into energy.

Designer proteins provide new information about the body's signal processes

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have created 22 semi-synthetic designer proteins that can regulate specific biochemical tasks. The discovery provides unique molecular understanding of protein interactions, which could lead to more effective pharmaceuticals targeting stroke, pain, and depression.

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.

Cambridge and Norwich win major boost for synthetic biology

A new UK synthetic biology centre, OpenPlant, has been awarded £12 million funding to create a climate of openness in the field. The centre aims to develop and share new tools and libraries of plant DNA, fostering innovation in sustainable agriculture and medicine.

Two stressed people equals less stress

A new study from the USC Marshall School of Business found that sharing feelings with someone having a similar emotional response to a threatening situation can help decrease stress. By discussing their emotions, individuals can experience reduced levels of stress-related hormones like cortisol.

Vaccine used to treat cervical precancers triggers immune cell response

Researchers have developed a vaccine that triggers an immune cell response within the damaged tissue itself, potentially providing a more accurate way to evaluate its effectiveness. The vaccine has shown promise in treating cervical precancers, with some patients experiencing complete regression of lesions.

Prostate cancer signal reawakens 'sleeper agent' cells in bones

Dormant prostate cancer cells in bone tissue can be reactivated to form secondary tumors when exposed to the signaling molecule RANKL. Researchers have discovered that this reactivation process may lead to metastatic prostate cancer in bones, and targeting it could prevent metastasis and improve survival rates.

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.

Weapons tied to repeat domestic abuse

A new MSU study found that the use of knives, guns, or vehicles in initial abuse incidents is a key predictor of ongoing domestic violence. Women who experienced such incidents were more likely to make follow-up calls to police for physical and nonphysical abuse.

Sea level variations escalating along eastern Gulf of Mexico coast

Research reveals a significant increase in summer sea level rise and decrease in winter sea level drop along the eastern Gulf Coast, leading to a greater seasonal difference. This change threatens coastal ecosystems, increases flood risk from hurricanes, and may disrupt salt balance in sensitive wetlands.

Less than half of children treated for anxiety achieve long-term relief

According to a new study, nearly half of children treated for anxiety achieve significant improvement and are disease-free after six years. However, the same number of children do not fare well and require ongoing mental health therapy. The research emphasizes the importance of vigilant follow-up and monitoring to mitigate anxiety's lo...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Better sweet corn research, better production

Researchers in sweet corn production emphasize the need for accurate measurement of crop responses to improve decision-making. The current approach often focuses on yield, whereas processor variables like recovery and case production are crucial for productivity.

Penguin future uncertain in the face of climate change

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that penguins' ability to respond to changes in sea ice concentrations is disrupted by extreme environmental events. Adélie penguins can cope with reduced summer sea ice, but extreme events like giant icebergs reduce their access to prey and overall efficiency.

UCSF receives $50 million gift

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) has received a $50 million gift from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to establish its first dedicated women's hospital at Mission Bay. The new hospital will offer integrated care for women, including cancer treatment and reproductive care.

Puzzling question in bacterial immune system answered

Researchers have determined how Cas9, a bacterial enzyme, identifies and degrades foreign DNA during viral infections and induces site-specific genetic changes. The presence of short DNA sequences known as PAM is critical to the ability of Cas9 to target and cleave DNA sequences.

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.

UA researchers trace bat killer's path

Researchers at the University of Akron identify fungi closely related to WNS, predicting future of North American bats; a single bat can eat thousands of insects, critical to controlling agricultural pests. The fungus can survive in caves without bats, making reintroduction attempts doomed to failure.

UF researchers develop blood test for devastating disease of boas and pythons

Researchers have developed a simple immune-based screening test for inclusion body disease (IBD) in snakes, a debilitating condition that affects boa constrictors and pythons. The test uses a monoclonal antibody to detect the presence of IBD in snakes, offering a potential solution for managing the spread of the disease.

China's reliance on lower-paid contract nurses may compromise patient care

A recent study from Columbia University School of Nursing found that hospitals with a high number of contract nurses had significantly higher levels of patient dissatisfaction and lower quality ratings. The study suggests that equal pay for equal work is essential for better patient outcomes, as low job satisfaction among contract nurs...

'Rogue' asteroids may be the norm

A new asteroid map reveals that rogue asteroids, once considered anomalous, are actually diverse and widespread throughout the main asteroid belt. The study suggests that the early solar system underwent dramatic changes, potentially affecting planetary migration and Earth's water development.

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: Oropharyngeal cancer on the rise in young adults

A new study reveals a significant increase in oropharyngeal cancers among young adults, with human papillomavirus (HPV) identified as a possible cause. The five-year survival rate for this age group is 54%, with African Americans facing poorer outcomes compared to other races.

Rewards facilitate human cooperation under natural selection

Researchers at University of Vienna investigate how voluntary reward funds can help coordinate cooperators in threshold public good games. Their study finds that rewards can lead to high levels of cooperation and even 100% cooperation in certain conditions.

Universe's early galaxies grew massive through collisions

Scientists discovered that massive galaxies in the early universe were formed by explosive star formation triggered by galaxy collisions. This theory contradicts the traditional view that galaxies grew larger over time through constant star formation and mergers.

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.

Clemson researcher to present at Connecticut's youth concussion conference

Clemson University researcher Jimmy Sanderson will present on communication strategies for managing concussions in sports at the Connecticut Concussion Conference. The conference aims to discuss solutions for schools and youth sport organizations to mitigate concussions and legal risks, a topic of growing public health concern.