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Science News Archive June 2014


Page 8 of 33

NTU study shows puzzle games can improve mental flexibility

A recent study by Nanyang Technological University scientists found that playing puzzle games like Cut the Rope can significantly improve executive functions in adults. Players showed improved ability to switch tasks, adapt to new situations, and block out distractions.

A collaboration of minds and metal

Researchers at Princeton University have made a groundbreaking collaboration between two areas of research, enabling the formation of previously impossible bonds. The breakthrough uses photoredox catalysis and nickel catalysis to create powerful new reactions with unprecedented efficiency and scalability.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Virus kills triple negative breast cancer cells, tumor cells in mice

Researchers discovered that a virus called AAV2 can kill triple-negative breast cancer cells and tumors in mice, with no adverse effects. The virus initiates apoptosis, or natural cell death, without affecting healthy cells, offering new possibilities for treatment of aggressive breast cancer.

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.

NOAA GOES-R satellite black wing ready for flight

The GOES-R satellite's solar array provides a stable platform to track the sun's movement, powering critical instruments like EXIS and ABI. The advanced spacecraft will result in more timely and accurate weather forecasts, enhancing public safety and economic health.

Gender differences could mean more risk for cardiovascular death

Research shows women with Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol have poorer adherence to statin medication, leading to lower LDL cholesterol levels compared to men. The study highlights the need for gender-based evaluation and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors in these patients.

Young researcher discovers source of disco clams' light show

Lindsey Dougherty, a University of California graduate student, has discovered the source of the disco clam's flashing light show - tiny silica nanospheres on its mirrored lip. The nanospheres reflect blue light, creating the clams' distinctive rippling display.

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.

How aging can intensify damage of spinal cord injury

Researchers found that immune cells in the central nervous system of elderly mice fail to activate an important signaling pathway, lowering chances for repair after spinal cord injury. In contrast, young adult mice showed a functional repair response.

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.

Helpful bouncing babies show that moving together to music builds bonds

A study by McMaster University researchers found that 14-month-old babies were more likely to help another person after bouncing up and down in time to music. The findings suggest that synchronous movement with others helps form social bonds between adults and infants, leading to increased altruistic behavior.

New technology: The goose bump sensor

A team of researchers at KAIST has developed a flexible, wearable sensor that can directly measure goose bumps on the skin, which is caused by sudden changes in body temperature or emotional states. The sensor uses a coplanar capacitor and detects piloerection through a simple linear relation between deformation and capacitance change.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The National Health Service -- committed to failure?

A recent study by Marianna Fotaki and Paula Hyde reveals how organizations, like the NHS, can become trapped in unrealistic policies and defensive behavior. The authors argue that unconscious social demands and the pressure to demonstrate success drive escalation of commitment, leading to greater material losses.

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.

UT Arlington nanoparticles could provide easier route for cell therapy

Researchers at UT Arlington have developed a method using laser technology and magnetic carbon nanoparticles to deliver drugs and genes directly into cancer cells. The new photothermal delivery method has shown promise in lab experiments, offering an alternative to viruses for gene therapy and potentially treating genetic conditions, c...

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.

Energy drinks raise new questions about caffeine's safety

A recent panel discussion at the Institute of Food Technologists Annual Meeting & Expo highlighted the need to identify vulnerable populations and fill research gaps related to caffeine's interactions with other energy drink ingredients. The FDA has begun an internal evaluation of caffeine's safety and is expected to issue guidelines.

Experts cite 'misconceptions' on brain metastases

Experts cite five historical misconceptions in brain metastases research, including assuming all histologies are equal and neglecting total tumor burden. A new article calls for 'fresh thinking' and critical analyses to advance treatment.

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.

Study finds world's protected areas not protecting biodiversity

A new study found that existing protected areas are insufficient in safeguarding the world's imperilled biodiversity, with 85% of threatened mammal, bird, and amphibian species not adequately protected. The authors recommend linking protected area expansion to high-threat species coverage to increase conservation chances.

Cancer genes hijack enhancers

Researchers discovered that cancer-causing genes are transcribed in childhood brain tumor cells due to 'hijacked' gene enhancers. The study also found that epigenetic regulation plays a crucial role in the activation of these genes, providing new targets for treatment development.

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.

Air pollution controls linked to lower death rates in North Carolina

A study by Duke University researchers found a strong association between improved air quality and declining death rates from emphysema, asthma, and pneumonia in North Carolina. The study analyzed data from 1993-2010 and found that reductions in sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and fine particulates were significantly correlated with l...

Study finds minimum payment warnings nudge credit card payments up AND down

A study by Boston College Marketing Professor Linda Salisbury found that minimum payment warnings had little impact on repayment decisions, but showing a three-year payoff time frame with accompanying lower interest costs led to both positive and negative effects. Some consumers were encouraged to pay more, while others were nudged tow...

Could genetics help explain intellectual disability in children?

Researchers will analyze genetic information from 10,000 UK families affected by intellectual disability, focusing on behavioral adjustments and medical history. The study aims to provide comprehensive genetic knowledge to help manage childhood behaviors and prevent poor mental outcomes in adulthood.

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.

Understanding the ocean's role in Greenland glacier melt

Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found rapid changes in ocean temperature near glaciers, driven by fast ocean currents. The data suggests large and rapid fluctuations in submarine melt rates, contradicting the prevailing paradigm of freshwater input driving new water into the fjord.

Huge new influx of Graphene Flagship partners

The Graphene Flagship is doubling in size with 66 new partners added through a €9 million competitive call, increasing the consortium's scope and capabilities. This move reflects growing interest from economic actors in graphene technology.

The JBEI GT Collection: A new resource for advanced biofuels research

Researchers at JBEI have created the first glycosyltransferase clone collection, targeting plant cell wall biosynthesis and enabling modification of biomass for fuel yields. The collection, led by Joshua Heazlewood, provides a functional genomic framework for studying GTs and their role in plant biology.

Can magnetic fields accurately measure positions of ferromagnetic objects?

Researchers developed a new measurement system that uses the spatial variation of magnetic fields to accurately measure positions of ferromagnetic objects, enabling non-contacting measurements over large distances. The system can be used in industrial machinery and even predict imminent collisions between cars.

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.

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.

Organic standards go global

International trade agreements have streamlined organic product exports and imports between the US and countries like Canada, EU, Japan, Israel, India, and New Zealand. Mutual recognition of certifications has increased market access for US organic businesses.

Emergence of bacterial vortex explained

Researchers have explained the emergence of a bacterial vortex by understanding its relation to physical mechanisms like collisions, boundary interactions, and fluid flow. Computer modeling and experimentation confirm that bacteria align themselves in the same direction due to their flagellar motion, creating a two-way fluid flow.

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.

New analysis reveals previously 'hidden diversity' of mouth bacteria

A new computational method has uncovered closely related, previously indistinguishable bacteria living in different parts of the human mouth. The study provides high taxonomic resolution of bacterial communities, revealing distinct bacteria in saliva, tongue, gums, plaque, and tonsils with unique properties.

Fungal infection control methods for lucky bamboo

A study recommends a systems approach to controlling fungal infections in lucky bamboo, including training and disease management at source and application of systemic fungicides. Latent presence of Colletotrichum dracaenophilum found in up to 43% of non-inoculated stalks.

Cell stress inflames the gut

Researchers found that the unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling cascade plays a crucial role in protecting intestinal cells from damage. However, an overactive UPR caused by the CHOP protein can slow down tissue repair and lead to chronic inflammation.

Gut microbe levels are linked to type 2 diabetes and obesity

Researchers found changes in gut microbiota composition among people with Type 2 diabetes or obesity compared to healthy individuals. The study identified associations between specific bacterial species and metabolic variables such as BMI, hemoglobin A1c, and waist circumference.

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.