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Science News for July 15, 2014


Study finds decrease in incidence of stroke, subsequent death

A study of 15,792 US adults found a significant decrease in stroke incidence and mortality rates over two decades, with decreases seen across age groups. The decline was attributed to improved control of risk factors such as hypertension, smoking cessation, and diabetes management.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 15, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Directly visualizing hydrogen bonds

Chemists have made a breakthrough in visualizing hydrogen bond interactions, which play a key role in biological molecules and pharmaceuticals. Using two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy techniques, researchers directly observed the coordinated vibrations between hydrogen-bonded molecules.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJul 15, 2014

Patients at highest risk of suicide in first 2 weeks after leaving hospital

Researchers have found that mental health patients are at their highest risk of dying by suicide in the first two weeks after leaving hospital. The study, which analyzed data from 2002 to 2012, shows that around 3,225 patients died by suicide within three months of discharge, with 526 deaths occurring within the first week.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateJul 15, 2014

Genetic testing for alcohol dependence risk in African Americans

A study examined the interest level of over 300 African American adults in genetic testing for alcohol dependence susceptibility, with some expressing concern over privacy and testing methods. The results suggest that more research is needed to address these concerns and establish effective genetic counseling strategies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateJul 15, 2014

Adolescent males seek intimacy and close relationships with the opposite sex

Researchers found that adolescent males desire intimate and caring relationships, expressing vulnerability and dependence, and placing great importance on trust. The study provides a nuanced understanding of adolescent males' early relationships, which contrasts with traditional portrayals of younger male behavior.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

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.

Researchers find organic pollutants not factor in turtle tumor disease

A new study by researchers from NIST and the Hollings Marine Laboratory found that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are not linked to fibropapillomatosis, a disease causing tumors in green sea turtles. The team detected halogenated phenols in turtle tissues, suggesting these compounds may be coming from algae in their diet.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 15, 2014

Underlying cause of cerebral palsy could lie in family links

A new study found a possible genetic link between cerebral palsy and family ties, with increased risks seen in twins, first cousins, and closer relatives. The study identified a stronger recurrence rate among co-twins of affected children and families with an affected single child.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 15, 2014

Rollout strategy for diagnostic test in India may impact TB

A new mathematical model suggests that implementing Xpert MTB/RIF as part of a more ambitious rollout strategy, including private sector engagement and referral networks, could reduce TB incidence by 14.1% in India. The current narrow implementation strategy is expected to only reduce incidence by 0.2%.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 15, 2014

4 lessons for effective, efficient research in health care settings

Researchers found that engaging stakeholders early, being pragmatic rather than perfect, using existing research networks and delegating tasks can help streamline healthcare research. These streamlined mechanics allowed the project to complete data collection in under 18 months.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Do women talk more than men? It's all about context

Researchers used sociometers to analyze social interactions of men and women in two settings, finding that women were more collaborative and talkative when working together, but not necessarily more talkative overall.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 15, 2014

New feathered predatory fossil sheds light on dinosaur flight

A new raptorial dinosaur fossil named Changyuraptor yangi has shed light on how larger-bodied dinosaurs took to the air, with exceptionally long feathers playing a crucial role in safe landings. The 125-million-year-old fossil, found in China, confirms that flight preceded the origin of birds and was not limited to small animals.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2014
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

SLU scientists hit 'delete': Removing regions of shape-shifting protein explains how blood clots

Researchers at Saint Louis University discovered that deleting disordered sections of a protein's structure reveals the molecular mechanism of blood clotting. By crystallizing prothrombin, they found that the deleted version is activated to thrombin faster and provides key information on the mechanism of prothrombin activation.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2014

Cholesterol activates signaling pathway that promotes cancer

Researchers discovered cholesterol's activation of a signaling pathway linked to cancer growth and division. Elevated cholesterol levels may selectively promote cancerous pathways, providing a new mechanism for cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2014

Widespread support for rapid HIV testing in dental surgeries -- new study

A new study found that over 80% of oral health patients are willing to receive rapid HIV-testing in dental settings. The test can be done with a simple finger prick or saliva swab and results available within 20 minutes. This could help inform people who aren't aware they're HIV-positive and reduce the spread of the virus.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Study reveals how gardens could help dementia care

A systematic review of 17 research studies found that outdoor spaces can reduce residents' agitation and provide environments for relaxation and social interaction. Gardens could offer welcome spaces for visitors to stimulate memories for dementia patients.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateJul 15, 2014

Is it time to lock up those who commit research fraud?

Dr Zulfiqar Bhutta believes that criminal sanctions are necessary to deter research misconduct, citing high rates of scientific misconduct and significant human health consequences. However, Dr Julian Crane argues that criminalization would undermine trust in research and is not an effective deterrent.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 15, 2014

Rice nanophotonics experts create powerful molecular sensor

Researchers at Rice University developed a single-molecule sensor using Raman spectroscopy and an optical amplifier, amplifying the optical signature of molecules by about 100 billion times. This technique has the potential to identify unknown molecules without prior information.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

NASA sees Typhoon Rammasun's eye staring at Visayas, Philippines

Typhoon Rammasun made landfall in the eastern part of central Philippines on July 15, with NASA's Aqua and TRMM satellites tracking its eye close to landfall. The storm brought moderate to heavy rainfall across the region, with cloud top temperatures indicating potential for severe weather.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 15, 2014

New materials for future green tech devices

Researchers have discovered a way to create thermoelectric materials with low thermal conductivity by incorporating porous substances. This design allows for more efficient conversion of heat to electricity, making it a promising material for future green tech devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateJul 15, 2014

3-D nanostructure could benefit nanoelectronics, gas storage

The researchers created a series of 3D prototypes with boron nitride, predicting enhanced strength, toughness, and heat transfer. The 3D nanostructure offers customized applications and potential for efficient gas storage and separation.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateJul 15, 2014

Protein's 'hands' enable bacteria to establish infection, research finds

Researchers at Kansas State University have found that bacteria can acquire iron from the environment using tiny protein loops on their surface. These protein loops are similar to fingers and can open or close to grab iron molecules, allowing the bacteria to establish an infection.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Telecare intervention improves chronic pain

A telephone-delivered telecare intervention improved chronic musculoskeletal pain compared to usual care, with nearly twice as many patients experiencing a 30% reduction in pain score. The intervention was associated with clinically meaningful improvements in pain and treatment satisfaction.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 15, 2014

NASA's Van Allen Probes show how to accelerate electrons

The Van Allen Probes have found a two-fold process that accelerates particles in the radiation belts, with an initial boost followed by electromagnetic waves called Whistlers. This mechanism helps explain how electrons reach intense speeds, damaging spacecraft and affecting astronauts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Researchers assess emergency radiology response after Boston Marathon bombings

Researchers assess emergency radiology response after Boston Marathon bombings, highlighting critical role of medical imaging in emergency situations and ways to improve preparedness for mass casualty events. Imaging played a vital role in evaluating extensive shrapnel injuries with X-ray and CT scans.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 15, 2014

Mutation stops worms from getting drunk

Researchers have successfully created mutant worms that cannot get intoxicated by alcohol, opening up new possibilities for treating alcohol withdrawal. The modified human alcohol target used in the study only affects its response to alcohol, leaving other functions intact.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateJul 15, 2014

Team studies immune response of Asian elephants infected with a human disease

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that TB-infected elephants have different immune responses to the infection compared to those without it. The team developed a new method to detect cytokine mRNA in elephants, which could lead to faster and more accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis in captive elephants.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalTuberculosis·DateJul 15, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

For bees and flowers, tongue size matters

Researchers found that bee tongues can be predicted by body size and taxonomic relationships, providing a valuable proxy for ecology studies. The study highlights the importance of tongue length in understanding species behavior, resilience, and invasiveness.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

New hope for treatment of Alzheimer's disease

A genetic variant in the HMG CoA reductase gene has been identified as a significant protector against common Alzheimer's disease, delaying its onset by up to 4 years. This breakthrough discovery opens up new possibilities for treatment and pharmaceutical interventions.

SourceDouglas Mental Health University Institute·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 15, 2014

How strongly does tissue decelerate the therapeutic heavy ion beam?

Researchers at PTB have developed an experiment to measure the stopping power of tissue for carbon ions, which will improve dosing for cancer therapy. The study found that carbon ions are less strongly stopped in liquid water than in water vapour.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Saltier intravenous fluids reduce complications from surgery

A study at Thomas Jefferson University found that using hypertonic saline during and after complex Whipple surgery reduced overall complication rates by 25%. The increased salt concentration helps to reduce fluid buildup and swelling, promoting faster recovery with fewer complications.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateJul 15, 2014

Taking B vitamins won't prevent Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that taking B vitamins had no effect on cognitive decline or reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease in a meta-analysis of 11 clinical trials involving 22,000 participants. The study suggests that folic acid and vitamin B-12 can lower homocysteine levels, but not prevent the disease.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 15, 2014

New assay to spot fake malaria drugs could save thousands of lives

A new assay developed by Oregon State University can detect counterfeit malaria drugs at a cost of a few cents, saving thousands of lives annually. The technology uses paper-based microfluidics to verify the presence and level of artesunate, a crucial drug for treating serious malaria cases.

SourceOregon State University·JournalTalanta·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Smarter ads for smartphones: When they do and don't work

Researchers found that mobile display ads are effective for products with practical uses and high involvement, but less so for luxurious or low-involvement products. By understanding these nuances, marketers can optimize their advertising strategies and improve return on investment.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateJul 15, 2014

Cooperation among humans, a question of age

The study analyzed how cooperation among humans evolves across age groups, with younger participants exhibiting more volatile decision-making and a 'conditional cooperator' strategy. In contrast, older adults (over 65) showed increased cooperativeness, suggesting potential benefits for companies by keeping this group engaged.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2014

New skin gel fights breast cancer without blood clot risk

A new skin gel form of tamoxifen has been developed and tested on women with non-invasive breast cancer, reducing cancer cell growth while minimizing side effects. The gel application was found to be effective in reducing blood clot risk associated with oral tamoxifen, offering a safer treatment option.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 15, 2014

Scientists launch far-ranging campaign to detail Front Range air pollution

A major field project on the northern Front Range of Colorado will provide needed information to officials seeking to ensure healthy air. The study, FRAPPÉ, uses specially equipped aircraft, networks of ground-based instruments, and sophisticated computer simulations to track summertime ozone pollution.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Scientists gear up to fight deadly snake fungal disease

Researchers have created a new test to quickly identify snakes infected with Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, a fungus killing snakes in the Midwest and eastern US. The test allows for early intervention and potential treatment of infected snakes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Molecular 'eat now' signal makes cells devour dying neighbors

A team of researchers has created a way to induce normally mild-mannered cells to gobble up their undesirable neighbors by exploiting a molecular signal. This breakthrough could lead to therapies that enlist patients' own cells to better fend off infection and even cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Signaling·DateJul 15, 2014

Smallest Swiss cross -- Made of 20 single atoms

Researchers successfully manipulate 20 single bromine atoms on a sodium chloride surface to form the smallest 'Swiss cross' at room temperature. The achievement marks an important step towards next-generation atomic-scale storage devices and logic circuits.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2014

NOAA's GOES-R satellite Magnetometer ready for spacecraft integration

The NOAA Magnetometer instrument is set to monitor magnetic field variations around Earth, enabling more accurate forecasts of space weather and its effects on orbiting spacecraft and electric power grids. The advanced technology will result in more timely and accurate weather forecasts, supporting public safety and economic health.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

Rainwater discovered at new depths

Researchers found rainwater can penetrate deep into the Earth's ductile crust, weakening rocks and initiating earthquakes. This discovery has significant implications for understanding earthquakes and the generation of valuable mineral deposits.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJul 15, 2014

Physicians struggle to clinically diagnose early HIV infection

A study published in JAMA reveals that physicians have difficulty recognizing the presence or absence of early HIV infection through clinical exam alone. Routine HIV testing is crucial for early detection and treatment, which can greatly reduce mortality and transmission.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJAMA·DateJul 15, 2014

Zhichan decoction increases dopaminergic neurons from transplanted NSCs in PD

Researchers found that Zhichan decoction increased dihydroxyphenylacetic acid levels up to 10-fold after neural stem cell transplantation, promoting the differentiation of dopaminergic neurons. This study suggests a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease using traditional Chinese medicine.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 15, 2014

Transparency lacking in clinical trials, BU study finds

A recent study found that nearly 30% of completed clinical trials in the US remained unpublished after four years, threatening the validity of medical research literature. The lack of transparency was particularly pronounced among industry-funded studies and those with smaller sample sizes.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 15, 2014
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.

New UK study helps scientists understand melanoma development

A new UK study reveals that a genetic defect in the melanocortin1 receptor (MC1R) may make people more susceptible to developing melanoma. The study found that MC1R defects contribute to melanoma development by delaying DNA repair and increasing cancerous mutations.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 15, 2014

Do daughters really cause divorce? Maybe not

A study from Duke University found that the sex of children born to couples is linked to relationship conflict and pregnancy stress. Girls are more likely to be born into strained marriages, while boys may not survive such pregnancies as easily as girls do.

SourceDuke University·JournalDemography·DateJul 15, 2014

Rollout strategy is key to battling India's TB epidemic, researchers find

A new study suggests that getting patients in India quickly evaluated by the right doctors can be as effective at curbing tuberculosis as a highly accurate screening test. Improving access to Xpert MTB/RIF, a new TB test, could reduce new cases by 14.1 percent over 5 years.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 15, 2014

BUSM study: Obesity may be impacted by stress

Researchers found that stress can disrupt the process of fat tissue development, leading to issues with fat storage within cells and in the bloodstream. The study identified a key signaling pathway involving adenosine receptors and stem cell factors that regulates this process.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 15, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Fundamental chemistry findings could help extend Moore's Law

Researchers at Berkeley Lab and Intel have developed a new kind of resist that combines the best properties of two existing types, offering improved light sensitivity and mechanical stability. The breakthrough could lead to the creation of even smaller microprocessors with increased computation and energy efficiency.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNanotechnology·DateJul 15, 2014

This week from AGU: Dust models, Arctic Ocean waves, floods and climate change

Researchers found that global climate models fail to accurately represent the characteristics of airborne African dust, which influences Atlantic Ocean hurricanes. Surface waves in the central Beaufort Sea also play a role in energy and nutrient transport, contributing to ice retreat and potentially exacerbating coastal erosion.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 15, 2014

Study finds why some firms are 'named and shamed' by activists

A new study reveals which companies are most likely to become targets of anti-corporate activism based on their size, brand image, and reputation. The researchers found that companies with prominent brands and good reputations were more likely to be targeted by activists.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJul 15, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

JAMA study: Stroke risk and death rates fall over past 2 decades

A new study published in JAMA found a 24% overall decline in first-time strokes in the US over the last two decades, as well as a 20% drop in deaths after stroke. However, progress was limited among younger people, while older adults saw little change in mortality rates.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·DateJul 15, 2014

Oetzi's 'non-human' DNA

Researchers found a significant presence of Treponema denticola, an opportunistic pathogen, in Oetzi's DNA mixture, supporting computer tomography-based diagnosis of periodontitis. The analysis also revealed Clostridia-like bacteria in a dormant state, which could impact future conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 15, 2014

What increases the neuronal plasticity of endogenous NSCs after focal cerebral ischemia?

Research by Dr. Hyung-Seok Kim reveals that early expressions of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha and vascular endothelial growth factor increase the neuronal plasticity of activated endogenous NSCs after focal cerebral ischemia. Additionally, neural precursor cells can be recruited from nearby areas to promote neurofunctional recovery.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 15, 2014