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Science News Archive June 2014


Page 29 of 33

Air pollution linked to irregular heartbeat and lung blood clots

A large study finds that high levels of certain air pollutants are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, including irregular heart rhythms and lung blood clots. The research suggests that particulate matter is particularly harmful for elderly people.

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.

Crop science booms in 'The Triangle' and strives to address population growth

Research Triangle Park has emerged as a hub for crop science, with major companies like Bayer and BASF investing heavily in research facilities. Scientists are working on projects addressing pressing issues such as pesticides against rootworm, honeybee threats, and drought tolerance to help meet the world's growing food demands.

UO researchers use rhythmic brain activity to track memories in progress

UO researchers used EEG electrodes to capture synchronized neural activity while subjects held a simple object in short-term memory. The team was able to decode the precise angle of the object and predict which individuals could store memories with high quality, shedding light on the role of alpha rhythms in memory processes.

How to tell when a sewage pipe needs repair -- before it bursts

Researchers analyzed bacterial diversity and gas concentrations in sewer systems to determine which sites are at higher risk for corrosion. By monitoring hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide levels, wastewater utilities can prevent major damage and costly repairs.

Mayo Clinic moves small-molecule drugs through blood-brain barrier

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have demonstrated a potential delivery vehicle for brain cancer chemotherapy drugs, enabling the transport of eight different molecules across the blood-brain barrier. The breakthrough method mimics a normal physiological process and could aid in evaluation of new drugs for brain cancer treatment.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New antibiotic proven effective to treat acute bacterial skin infections

A study published in New England Journal of Medicine shows that dalbavancin is as effective as vancomycin in treating serious bacterial skin and skin-structure infections, including MRSA. The antibiotic has been proven to be an effective therapy for these infections, allowing for treatment once a week instead of several times a day.

Genetics provide blueprint for new heart disease therapies

Recent advances in genetic research offer new hope for treating coronary artery disease by identifying specific genetic variants and pathways associated with cardiovascular risk. Human genetic data suggest that targeting LDL-C and triglycerides may be effective in reducing major cardiovascular events.

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.

You catch (and kill) more flies with this sweetener

Researchers at Drexel University found that erythritol is toxic to fruit flies in a dose-dependent manner. The sweetener is safe for human consumption, unlike other pesticides that have caused accidental poisonings. Further studies will be conducted on other insects and the compound's effects on the food chain.

A new approach to diversity research

Researchers argue that using homogeneous social groups as a baseline to study diversity may not fully capture the dynamics at play. A new study suggests that homogenous groups can produce anomalous effects on their members, including an overestimation of individual contributions.

Cleaning the air with roof tiles

Researchers created a titanium dioxide roof tile coating that breaks down 21 tons of nitrogen oxides daily, equivalent to an 11,000-mile car drive. The coating costs only $5 per roof, making it a cost-effective solution for reducing smog in the region.

Finding the lost art of Angkor Wat

Australian National University researcher Noel Hidalgo Tan discovered hidden paintings on Angkor Wat temple walls, dating back almost 500 years. The artworks depict deities, animals and daily life, shedding light on a previously unknown period in Cambodian history.

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.

Dad's alcohol consumption could influence sons' drinking, Pitt study finds

A new animal study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that male mice exposed to alcohol before breeding had less likely offspring who consumed less alcohol and were more sensitive to its effects. The study suggests environmental factors, such as epigenetics, may play a role in shaping drinking behaviors.

Testing the waters to fight infections like fish

The WPI team has received a $50,000 grant from the National Science Foundation's Innovation Corps program to explore commercial potential of their new technology. They are engineering surfaces with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to prevent infections on catheters, orthopedic implants and other medical devices.

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.

New app collects wildlife-vehicle collision data

A new smartphone-based system, WVC Reporter, increased reporting efficiency, improved accuracy, and enhanced data visualization. Reports using the app produced more accurate locations, were entered quicker, and had a lower data entry error rate than manual reports.

Deppression with atypical features associated with obesity

A study associates depression with atypical features, including increased appetite, with obesity. The researchers emphasize the importance of screening for these atypical features in individuals with depression and recommend dietary measures during depressive episodes.

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.

BMJ urged to widen its approach to transparency

A group of New Zealand health policy researchers has called on the BMJ to be more transparent about its publications, particularly when it comes to funding and conflicts of interest. The researchers argue that the BMJ accepted a report without disclosing the funding source, which was paid by the Canterbury District Health Board.

Brain protein may explain depression in pre-menopausal women

A recent study by CAMH found that pre-menopausal women have higher levels of a brain protein called monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A), linked to depression. MAO-A breaks down brain chemicals that help regulate mood. The study suggests new opportunities for prevention, including dietary supplements and hormone replacement therapy.

Report supports shutdown of all high seas fisheries

A recent study from the University of British Columbia found that high seas fish and aquatic life remove 1.5 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, valued at $148 billion US. This compares to the $16 billion paid for 10 million tonnes of caught fish, highlighting their importance as a natural carbon sink.

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.

No evidence of the double nature of neutrinos

The EXO-200 experiment searched for Majorana neutrinos, which could explain their mass, but found no evidence. The decay of a radioactive isotope that may only occur if neutrinos are their own antiparticles was tested with unprecedented accuracy.

Team packs butterfly nets for summer research expedition

The UC team will monitor snow cover, pollination, and mating behaviors of the Rocky Mountain Apollo butterfly to understand climate change's effects on its population. The research aims to reconstruct climatological conditions experienced by the butterflies in the past using meteorological data from a field station.

NASA sees Depression Boris mOVING over Mexico with heavy rainfall

Tropical Storm Boris strengthened into a depression before making landfall in southern Mexico, bringing heavy rainfall and flash flooding. The storm's slow movement exacerbated localized rainfall amounts, with the Mexican Weather Service reporting 12.5 inches of rainfall in one city.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Genes/adversity linked to crime in incarcerated sample

Researchers found that a specific gene (MAOA) interacts with childhood adversity to predict higher rates of crime in an incarcerated sample. The study, published in Psychiatric Genetics, suggests that gene-by-environment interactions play a crucial role in understanding crime variation.

Are squiggly lines the future of password security?

A new study by Rutgers University researchers found that free-form gestures on smartphones can be used to unlock phones and grant access to apps, making them harder for hackers to steal passwords. The gestures were shown to be more secure than traditional typed passwords or newer 'connect-the-dots' grid exercises.

Disinfection caps successful in CLABSI prevention

A two-year study found that using alcohol-impregnated caps reduced central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) by 68%, with 80% of infections related to inadequate hub cleaning. This simple intervention saved over $1 million in hospital costs, making it an easy addition to infection prevention strategies.

A professor's plan to protect the environment wins $125 million

A NJIT professor has won $125 million to develop a plan to protect Nassau County's South Shore from storm surges and rising sea levels. The 'Living with the Bay (Slow Streams)' design proposal includes sustainable infrastructure improvements along the Mill River.

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.

One and done: New antibiotic could provide single-dose option

A new antibiotic, oritavancin, has shown effectiveness in treating methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other skin infections with a single dose. The study found that the prolonged activity of oritavancin allows for a single-dose treatment, which could potentially prevent hospitalizations and reduce healthcare costs.

Study: When hospital workers get vaccines, community flu rates fall

A California-based study reveals a strong connection between hospital healthcare personnel influenza vaccination and the rate of influenza-like illnesses in surrounding communities. For every 15 vaccinated healthcare workers, one fewer case of flu is reported in the community.

First intact skull of Mediterranean worm lizard found

A new species of Mediterranean worm lizard, Blanus mendezi, has been identified with the discovery of its first intact skull, providing insights into the evolution of this poorly known group of reptiles. The fossil, dated to 11.6 million years ago, features a well-preserved skull and vertebrae, shedding light on the species' history.

Ice cream sensations on the computer

Scientists used 'Temporal Dominance of Sensations' technique to visualize perceptions while eating vanilla ice cream. Key findings include the role of hydrocolloids in eliminating cold-ice sensation and enhancing creaminess.

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.

Four new genes confirmed to increase familial breast cancer risk

Researchers have identified four new genes that increase familial breast cancer risk, with RINT1 also linked to a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal and gynecological cancers. The study has significantly expanded the panel of genes known to account for increased breast cancer occurrence within families.

Courts face challenges when linking genetics to criminal behavior

The use of genetic evidence in courts holds potential for assisting with judgments on criminal behavior, but also raises concerns about misinterpretation and misuse. Experts emphasize the need for careful evaluation to ensure that conclusions drawn from genetic data reflect valid science.

How high blood pressure in middle age may affect memory in old age

Research suggests that high blood pressure in middle age is associated with increased risk of brain lesions and tiny brain bleeds, particularly in those without a history of high blood pressure. In contrast, individuals with a history of high blood pressure may experience smaller brain volumes and lower memory scores.

Quantum criticality observed in new class of materials

Physicists at Rice University have discovered a new class of materials that exhibit quantum criticality, a phenomenon closely related to high-temperature superconductivity. The research provides valuable insights into the behavior of heavy fermion metals, which could lead to a broader understanding of quantum criticality.

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.

Hemorrhagic fevers can be caused by body's antiviral interferon response

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have found a major clue to the mystery of hemorrhagic fever syndromes, linking them to the body's antiviral response and identifying Interferon Type I proteins as key drivers of disease. Blocking IFN-I signaling may be a good therapeutic strategy against hemorrhagic fevers.

How red tide knocks out its competition

New research reveals how red tide's chemicals disable competitor algae without killing them, affecting nutrient cycling and primary production in the ocean. Red tide's chemical cues alter large-scale ecosystem processes.

Study discovers the downside of African-American success stories

A recent study by Clayton Critcher and Jane L. Risen found that exposure to African-American success stories can lead to a misguided perception that these individuals simply need to work harder to achieve their goals. This misinterpretation can have significant implications for perceptions of race relations in America. The study's find...

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.

Discovering a hidden source of solar surges

Researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology have made a groundbreaking discovery about the structure and activity of the Sun. They found that buoyant magnetic-flux ropes on the solar surface can trigger powerful plasma eruptions in the atmosphere, leading to intense heating and rapid acceleration of plasma.

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.

Farmers markets inspire WIC moms, but grocery-store produce costs less!

A University of Illinois study found that WIC moms who received farmers market vouchers consumed a greater variety of vegetables and fruits, despite lower prices at grocery stores. The study suggests that while vouchers can increase access to fresh produce, they may not significantly impact overall consumption.

Iron, steel in hatcheries may distort magnetic 'map sense' of steelhead

Research from Oregon State University found that exposure to iron pipes and steel rebar can alter the magnetic field around fish, affecting their ability to navigate. The study suggests that stabilizing the magnetic field by using alternative materials in hatcheries may help produce better yields of fish.

Deeper than ancestry.com, 'EvoCor' identifies gene relationships

Researchers at Virginia Tech Carilion Institute create EvoCor, a search engine that quickly identifies genes functionally linked to specific biological processes. This breakthrough tool aids in discovering complex molecular mechanisms and may lead to new therapeutic targets for diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.

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.