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Science News Archive July 2014 - Page 26


Page 26 of 34

Bacteria hijack plentiful iron supply source to flourish

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University identified a promising new pathway to disabling bacterial infection: blocking bacteria's access to iron in the body. They found that bacteria can feed on iron supplied by both bacterial and mammalian siderophore, allowing them to proliferate and make the host ill.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 9, 2014

Tiny DNA pyramids enter bacteria easily -- and deliver a deadly payload

Researchers created nanopyramids made of DNA that can flag and kill bacteria, with a success rate of 65% for Staphylococcus aureus and 48% for Escherichia coli compared to traditional medicine. The innovation offers a new approach to delivering drugs directly into bacterial cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 9, 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.

New medication shows promise in treating common skin disease

A new medication called dupilumab has shown promising results in treating atopic dermatitis, a chronic and debilitating skin disease. Dupilumab blocks the action of two proteins involved in inflammation, leading to a marked improvement in disease activity and itch.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 9, 2014

Wake-up call for more research into cell metabolism

A review article by scientists from VIB and KU Leuven suggests that thorough research into the cell metabolism of stromal cells, endothelial cells, and immune cells could result in new treatment options for these diseases. This would also improve current cancer treatments.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

My brother's keeper

A study by Concordia University found that siblings naturally teach each other skills like counting, building towers, and recognizing shapes. The researchers observed spontaneous interactions between two children aged four and six, revealing that both older and younger siblings initiate learning activities.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Cognition and Development·DateJul 9, 2014

Depressed men with prostate cancer are diagnosed later stage, get less effective therapies

A UCLA study found that depressed men with localized prostate cancer were more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive cancer, received less effective treatments, and had shorter survival times. The study identified demographic factors that contributed to the disparity in treatment and outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJul 9, 2014

Smokers with mental health issues cost UK nearly £2.5 billion a year

Research published in Tobacco Control finds that people with mental health issues who smoke incur significant economic costs due to premature death, lost productivity, and healthcare expenses. The total estimated annual cost is around £2.5 billion, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to help this group quit smoking.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateJul 9, 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.

Making a more healthful, low-fat hot dog without giving up texture

Researchers developed olive oil 'bulking agents' to replace pork fat in hot dogs, maintaining texture and reducing calories. The substitutes contain 55% olive oil, which contains more healthful unsaturated fats, making them suitable for summer BBQs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJul 9, 2014

Night-time brilliance lights up political patronage

A new study by Monash University researchers links night-time light intensity to regional favouritism and GDP growth, finding that countries where political leaders were born tend to have higher night-time light levels and regional GDP. The study also highlights the impact of authoritarian leadership on foreign aid distribution.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateJul 9, 2014

Thyroid hormone protects hippocampal cholinergic neurons in normal aged animals

Levothyroxine treatment improved cognitive and learning abilities in naturally aged mice by increasing choline acetyltransferase and acetylcholine levels. The supplement also enhanced superoxide dismutase activity and synapse function, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for age-related cognitive deficits.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 9, 2014

Vasectomy may increase risk of aggressive prostate cancer

A study from Harvard School of Public Health found that vasectomy is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, including advanced and lethal forms. The association remained even among men who received regular PSA screening, suggesting a potential link between the procedure and aggressive prostate cancer.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJul 9, 2014
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.

Projecting a 3-dimensional future

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new holography technology based on nanoantennas, enabling dynamic and complex three-dimensional projections without replotted images. The technology has vast applications in security, medical, recreational, and scientific research.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 9, 2014

Food imagery ideal for teaching doctors... who must have strong stomachs

A range of food descriptors is used in medicine to identify conditions and ailments, from 'anchovy sauce' to 'oat cell carcinoma.' Dairy products and fruit also feature prominently in the medical lexicon., These time-honored allusions serve as a lively learning inducement for generations of physicians.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalMedical Humanities·DateJul 9, 2014

Bee foraging chronically impaired by pesticide exposure: Study

A study published in Functional Ecology found that long-term pesticide exposure hampers bumblebees' ability to collect pollen. Bees exposed to neonicotinoid pesticides became less successful at collecting pollen and developed different flower preferences over time.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateJul 9, 2014

Discovery of new drug targets for memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease

Scientists have identified a novel mechanism of memory loss in Alzheimer's disease and propose new therapeutic targets, including the production and release mechanisms of GABA in reactive astrocytes. A MAO-B inhibitor showed promise in treating Alzheimer's disease model mice for a short time.

SourceKorea Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 8, 2014
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.

Harmful hookahs: Many young smokers aren't aware of the danger

A UCLA School of Nursing study found that 57% of young adults believe hookah smoking is not harmful to their health. Despite this, hookahs contain toxic chemicals and nicotine, posing serious health risks. The study aims to increase public knowledge on the dangers of hookah smoking among young adults.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNursing Research·DateJul 8, 2014

Variations in key gene predict cancer patients' risk for radiation-induced toxicity

A study found that variations in the TANC1 gene are associated with a greater risk of radiation-driven side effects in prostate cancer patients. The research team developed a predictive genomic test to optimize treatment plans, allowing for improved quality of life for many cancer survivors.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 8, 2014

AAU launches STEM education initiative website, announces STEM network conference

The Association of American Universities (AAU) has launched the AAU STEM Initiative Hub, a website providing resources for universities to showcase innovative efforts improving undergraduate STEM teaching. The hub will also profile efforts by eight AAU STEM Project Sites and provide a platform for sharing strategies and challenges.

SourceAssociation of American Universities·DateJul 8, 2014

Collisions with robots -- without risk of injury

A new study by Fraunhofer Institute explores the biomechanical loads resulting from collisions between robots and humans. Researchers use a pendulum to measure force, pressure distribution, and impact velocity to identify thresholds for injuries.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateJul 8, 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.

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.

Astronomers bring the third dimension to a doomed star's outburst

Researchers used extensive observations to develop the first high-resolution 3D model of the Homunculus Nebula, confirming features like arm-like protrusions and trenches. The new model suggests intense interactions between Eta Carinae's stars played a significant role in shaping the nebula.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 8, 2014

Brain tumor invasion along blood vessels may lead to new cancer treatments

Researchers have discovered that invading glioblastoma cells hijack cerebral blood vessels to extract nutrients, damaging the brain's protective barrier and potentially leading to new cancer treatments. This finding could enable earlier delivery of anti-invasive agents to attack tumor cells.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2014

Underage drinkers heavily exposed to magazine ads for alcohol brands they consume

A new study found that underage drinkers between 18 and 20 years old are heavily exposed to magazine advertising for the alcohol brands they consume most frequently. The study suggests a relationship between exposure to alcohol ads and consumption of specific brands, particularly among young females.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJul 8, 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.

Transmission of hepatitis C virus following antiviral treatment

Researchers discovered that trace amounts of HCV RNA in successfully treated patients can be infectious. The study used an animal model to show that blood from these patients could cause HCV infection, which may be hard to detect due to delayed onset of disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 8, 2014

Ancient arachnid brought back to life

Researchers used exceptionally preserved fossils and computer graphics to recreate the most likely walking gait of a 410-million-year-old arachnid. The study, published in the Journal of Paleontology, provides new insights into the evolution of early land animals.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Paleontology·DateJul 8, 2014

Minimally invasive surgery underused at many US hospitals

A new study finds that minimally invasive surgery is underutilized in many US hospitals, with significant variability in procedure types and complication rates. The study suggests that differences in physician training and hospital practices contribute to this disparity.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 8, 2014

Damage assessment of runaway barges at Marseilles lock and dam

A synchronized lock and dam system failed during a severe flood in April 2013, resulting in seven unmoored barges crashing into the dam. The incident caused significant damage to the navigation channel, flooding adjacent land and disrupting agricultural shipments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateJul 8, 2014
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.

Recalled yogurt contained highly pathogenic mold

A study by Duke University scientists identified a highly virulent strain of Mucor circinelloides fungus in Chobani yogurt that caused severe symptoms in consumers. The researchers found that the fungus can survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract and produce a lethal systemic infection in diabetic mice.

SourceDuke University·JournalmBio·DateJul 8, 2014

EPA funds free, online environmental enforcement training

The Environmental Crime Program Training (Project EnCriPT) offers a range of free, online courses on environmental enforcement and public health issues. These courses will help strengthen enforcement efforts across various levels and provide hands-on experience in processing hazardous materials scenes.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJul 8, 2014

When faced with some sugars, bacteria can be picky eaters

Researchers found genetically identical bacteria respond differently to sugars, exhibiting a wide range of behaviors. The study highlights the complexity of bacterial behaviors and their response to environmental conditions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMolecular Microbiology·DateJul 8, 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.

UI researchers find early predictor for preeclampsia

University of Iowa researchers have identified a biomarker that can predict preeclampsia at least 6 weeks into pregnancy, enabling early detection and potentially preventing severe health issues. The study's findings hold significant implications for obstetric care in rural and underserved communities.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·DateJul 8, 2014

Rockefeller scientists first to reconstitute the DNA 'replication fork'

Researchers at Rockefeller University developed the first model system to understand the DNA 'replication fork' process in eukaryotic cells. This breakthrough enables scientists to study the molecular tools involved in cell division and may have significant implications for human disease research, particularly cancer.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJul 8, 2014

A hotspot for powerful cosmic rays

Researchers at the Telescope Array observatory detected a disproportionate number of high-energy cosmic rays emanating from a specific area in the northern sky. The discovery provides a promising lead in identifying the sources of these enigmatic particles, which are believed to originate from beyond our galaxy.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 8, 2014
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.

Gene mutation may lead to treatment for liver cancer

A study found that genetic mutations in liver cells drive tumor formation in iCCA, with mutant proteins impairing liver cell development and increasing the risk of metastasis. Researchers discovered a potential treatment option by targeting IDH1/2 mutations, opening a new line of investigation for biomarkers and life-saving decisions.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 2014

Removing gall bladder for suspected common duct stone shows benefit

Patients with possible common duct stones who underwent immediate laparoscopic cholecystectomy had a shorter median length of hospital stay compared to those who received endoscopic evaluation first. The study found fewer common duct investigations in the former group, with no significant difference in illness or quality of life measures.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 8, 2014

Three NASA satellites dissect powerful Typhoon Neoguri

Typhoon Neoguri was analyzed by NASA's Aqua, TRMM, and CloudSat satellites, gathering data on its eye wall structure, cloud heights, and rainfall rates. The storm showed a large eye with meso vorticies and moderate to heavy rainfall south of the eyewall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 8, 2014

Travel campaign fuels $1B rise in hospitality industry

A study led by Michigan State University found a positive economic impact of the Travel Promotion Act, increasing the value of the hospitality industry by $1 billion. The program is associated with an increase in hotel firm values and may lead to expansion and job creation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateJul 8, 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.

Varenicline combined with nicotine patch improves smoking cessation rates

A study published in JAMA found that combining varenicline with nicotine replacement therapy significantly improved smoking cessation rates at 6 months compared to varenicline alone. The combination treatment resulted in higher continuous abstinence and point prevalence abstinence rates, but also more side effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 8, 2014

NASA's SDO spots a summer solar flare

A mid-level solar flare peaked at 12:20 p.m. EDT on July 8, 2014, and was captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory. The event had an M6.5-class rating and may have affected Earth's atmosphere, potentially disturbing GPS and communications signals.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 8, 2014

Silicon sponge improves lithium-ion battery performance

Researchers developed a porous silicon material to replace traditional graphite in lithium-ion batteries, allowing for more energy storage capacity and longer runtime. The new material maintained over 80% of its initial capacity after 1,000 charge-and-discharge cycles.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2014

Same genes drive maths and reading ability

A study published in Nature Communications found that around half of the genes influencing reading ability also impact mathematics skills. The research suggests a substantial overlap in genetic variants affecting both traits, with complex interactions between genetics and learning environment playing a crucial role.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2014

Underage drinkers overexposed to magazine advertising for the brands they consume

A new study reveals that underage drinkers are disproportionately exposed to the brand names of their preferred alcohols in magazine ads, which may encourage drinking initiation. The findings suggest that industry self-regulatory guidelines are inadequate in limiting ad placements to minimize exposure to young readers.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJul 8, 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.

Siblings may have a greater influence than parents on a child's obesity risk

A new study finds that sibling obesity is more strongly associated with a child's risk of obesity than parental obesity, particularly among same-gender siblings. The risk is more than five times greater when an obese sibling is present, and physical activity levels can mitigate this effect.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 8, 2014

Virtual reality crowds produce real behavior insights

A team of researchers at Brown University developed a wireless virtual reality system to study how pedestrians interact with each other and how their individual behaviors generate patterns of crowd movement. The system, which allows for the creation of virtual crowds, has shown that people tend to match the speed and direction of their...

SourceBrown University·DateJul 8, 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.