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Science News Archive June 2014


Page 30 of 33

Black hole 'batteries' keep blazars going and going

Astronomers have found evidence that two classes of blazars represent different sides of the same cosmic coin, with one class being a gas-guzzling car and the other an energy-efficient electric vehicle. The team's redshift survey revealed that FSRQs began to decline while BL Lacs increased in numbers around 5.6 billion years ago.

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.

Study finds coordinated approach improves quality of primary care

A study found that primary care physicians in team-based care models with electronic health records (EHRs) improved their quality of care more than those without EHRs. The patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model was associated with significant improvements in care, including better preventive screening and testing.

Balancing strategy to lateral impact in a rat Rattus norregicus

Researchers studied a rat's balancing strategy to lateral impact, finding it bends flexible body to absorb energy and resists force through side-sway. The study reveals key mechanisms for animal stability during locomotion and inspires improvements in bionic robots.

Chinese stroke patients fare better when hospitals follow guidelines

Research presented at the American Heart Association's Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Scientific Sessions 2014 found that Chinese stroke patients who received guideline-recommended treatments had a significant drop in pneumonia from 20% to almost 5%. However, only 55.5% of eligible patients received all recommended treatments.

Experts recommend blood, urine testing to diagnose rare adrenal tumors

The Endocrine Society recommends blood and urine tests for metanephrines to identify patients with pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, which can cause high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Genetic testing is also recommended for family members at risk, based on a shared decision-making process with physicians.

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.

Solving sunspot mysteries

Multi-wavelength observations of sunspots have provided new insights into their complex and dynamic nature. The data revealed rapidly rotating plasma rolls, powerful shocks, and widespread plasma eruptions driven by solar-energy flux and controlled by intense magnetic fields.

Speeding food safety tests to deliver fresher products

Researchers at UMass Amherst developed a faster method for detecting and separating microbial contamination from food, potentially saving time and expense. The new technique uses magnetically charged beads to quickly remove disease-causing bacteria from liquid samples.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Climate engineering can't erase climate change

A new report ranks climate engineering approaches in terms of feasibility and cost-effectiveness. Researchers conclude that reducing greenhouse gas emissions through low-carbon energy sources and behavioral changes is still the most effective way to confront climate change.

Vanishing da Vinci

A team of researchers developed a new approach to identify and quantify chromophores in ancient paper, which contributes to the understanding of visual degradation processes. The study applied this technique to Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait, revealing its degradation state and providing insights into environmental conditions.

Implanted heart device linked to increased survival

A study from Duke University Medical Center found that implantable cardioverter defibrillators improve survival among heart failure patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 30-35%. The device reduces three-year mortality rates by 3.6% in patients without ICDs.

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.

Notre Dame receives Gates grant for groundbreaking research in global heal

The University of Notre Dame's Marya Lieberman has received a Grand Challenges Explorations grant to develop printed test cards for rapid field screening of human and animal medications. The test cards can detect low-quality medications, applying economic pressure to companies that manufacture or distribute them.

Spiders know the meaning of web music

Researchers found that spider silk can be tuned to a wide range of harmonics, allowing spiders to detect vibrations from prey and mates. This unique property could inspire new technologies such as tiny sensors.

Brain signals link physical fitness to better language skills in kids

Children who are physically fit have faster and more robust neuro-electrical brain responses during reading, corresponding to better language skills. The study found higher amplitude N400 and P600 waves in fitter children, suggesting they processed information more quickly and efficiently.

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.

Count of new CFCs in the atmosphere rises from 4 to 7

Scientists have discovered two new chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and one new hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) in the atmosphere, which were released into the air in recent years. The discovery strengthens the argument that there are many more man-made gases in the atmosphere that could pose a threat to the ozone layer.

Prototype electrolyte sensor to provide immediate read-outs

Researchers have developed a prototype device that can analyze various electrolyte levels on the spot, providing real-time feedback to users. The wearable microneedle device is painless and samples only interstitial fluid, making it suitable for long-term use.

PARTNERS works to promote tropical forest regrowth

A $440,000 grant-funded global project aims to protect remaining old-growth forests and promote sustainable reforestation through a multidisciplinary approach. Researchers from 14 countries will work together to understand factors leading to forest regrowth and provide tangible recommendations for policymakers.

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.

Many breast cancer patients don't get treatment for heart problems

Many breast cancer patients fail to receive treatment for heart problems despite having a higher risk of complications, according to a recent study. Researchers found that only about one-third of older breast cancer patients saw a cardiologist within 90 days of developing heart issues.

Progress on detecting glucose levels in saliva

The new sensor uses dye chemistry and plasmonic interferometry to selectively measure glucose concentrations in complex solutions like human saliva. It can detect changes in glucose concentration of 0.1 micromoles per liter, which is 10 times more sensitive than previous methods.

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.

Proteins 'ring like bells'

Researchers at the University of Glasgow discovered that proteins like lysozyme can vibrate at frequencies similar to a few terahertz, allowing for efficient biochemical reactions. This 'ringing' motion enables proteins to morph quickly and bind with other molecules, critical for life's biological functions.

Technology deal secures commercial RAFT agent supply

Boron Molecular secures rights to mass-manufacture and sell RAFT chain transfer agents globally for R&D and commercial purposes. CSIRO's reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) technology enables users to tailor polymer properties with unprecedented control.

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.

MDMA can be fatal in warm environments

A recent NIH preclinical study suggests that even moderate doses of MDMA can be deadly in rats exposed to hot, crowded social settings. The study identifies the therapeutically-relevant cooling mechanism to counteract MDMA-induced hyperthermia.

'Liquid biopsy' offers new way to track lung cancer

A new liquid biopsy test uses circulating tumour cells in blood samples to monitor and predict lung cancer response to treatment. The test has the potential to provide personalised medicine for the disease, particularly for small cell lung cancer with poor survival rates.

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.

Researchers to expand child exploitation web-crawler

Researchers are expanding their Child Exploitation Network Extractor (CENE) web crawler to track online child exploitation networks globally. The updated system will enable location-based tracking of servers and domain owners, helping identify countries hosting CE content.

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.

Complex neural circuitry keeps you from biting your tongue

Researchers used a tracing technique in mice to map the brain circuitry controlling chewing movements. They found shared premotor neurons connecting to multiple motoneurons regulating jaw and tongue movements, suggesting a simple coordination method for safe mealtime.

Stress hormone receptors localized in sweet taste cells

Researchers have localized stress-activated hormone receptors in oral taste cells responsible for detection of sweet, umami, and bitter. The findings suggest that stress hormones may directly affect how these cells respond to sugars and certain other taste stimuli.

New definition of kidney disease for clinical trials could lead to new treatments

A new study suggests revising the definition of kidney disease progression used in clinical trials could shorten trial length and encourage more trials. This revised definition, based on a decline in estimated kidney function, carries higher risks for end-stage renal disease and mortality but is common enough to facilitate testing.

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.

Unlocking the potential of stem cells to repair brain damage

Scientists are exploring the potential of adult stem cells from bone marrow to treat brain damage by manipulating neural markers. The research, published in Developmental Biology, aims to develop a way to introduce stem cells into the brain and modify them to repair damaged brain cells.

Rice University produces carbon-capture breakthrough

Researchers at Rice University have created a porous material that can capture and polymerize carbon dioxide from natural gas at ambient temperature. The material shows promise to replace more costly and energy-intensive processes, enabling the economic production of gas resources with higher carbon dioxide content.

Columbia Nursing study exposes infection risks in home health

A Columbia University School of Nursing study found that patients receiving home health care are vulnerable to serious infections due to poor hygiene practices. The research highlights the need for proper training and education for caregivers to prevent infections, particularly among patients with central venous catheters.

Two planets orbit nearby ancient star

Astronomers have discovered two new planets orbiting a nearby ancient star, Kapteyn's Star, which is just 13 light years away from Earth. One planet, Kapteyn b, is thought to be warm enough to support liquid water on its surface, while the second, Kapteyn c, is a more massive super-Earth with uncertain habitability.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

In utero exposure to antidepressants may influence autism risk

A new study from Drexel University suggests that in utero exposure to antidepressant medications may contribute to a higher risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children. The study analyzed large population-based registers and found a two-fold increased risk for ASD associated with in utero exposure to SSRIs.

New device isolates most aggressive cancer cells

A Cornell research team has developed a new microfluidic device to isolate and study the most aggressive cancer cells. The device separates these cells from less aggressive ones, enabling researchers to analyze molecular changes that contribute to metastasis.

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.

Night owls may be more sedentary, less motivated to exercise

A new study found that night owls are more likely to be sedentary and experience barriers to exercise. Later sleep times were associated with more self-reported minutes sitting and perceived difficulties in exercising. Circadian factors should be considered when discussing exercise participation, especially for less active adults.

Breaking down barriers

Researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna warn of the impact of fencing and railway development on migratory ungulates in Mongolia's Gobi-Steppe Ecosystem. The authors advocate for structural modifications to fences, removal of unnecessary barriers, and re-routing of railway lines to minimize negative effects on ecosystem integrity.

A new, greener cement to meet future demand

EPFL-led consortium develops new cement blend that substitutes up to half of Portland cement, promising to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40%. The new blend, called LC3, is stronger and more robust than traditional cement, thanks to synergistic chemistry between calcined clay and ground limestone.