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Science News Archive June 2014 - Page 20


Page 20 of 33

Immune response affects sleep and memory -- new study

A new study published in PeerJ found that fighting off illness rather than the illness itself causes sleep deprivation and affects memory. The research used flies to show that the immune system can cause problems with sleep and memory, even when there is no infection present.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 12, 2014

Smartphone apps carry higher infection risk than online dating sites or clubs

A US study suggests that smartphone apps pose a higher risk of gonorrhoea and chlamydia among gay men, who are more likely to engage in unprotected sex with anonymous partners. The study found that app users were 23% more likely to be infected with gonorrhoea and 35% more likely to be infected with chlamydia.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateJun 12, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Grit better than GRE at predicting success in STEM fields

Researchers propose using a 30-minute face-to-face interview to assess students' competencies beyond academic aptitude, leading to an 81% PhD completion rate among underrepresented minorities and women. The GRE's limited predictive ability in STEM fields is also highlighted.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature·DateJun 12, 2014

Vast genetic diversity among Mexicans found in large-scale study

A comprehensive analysis of Mexico's genomic diversity identified a dazzling mosaic of genotypes and population substructures across the country. The researchers found that variations in Native American ancestry significantly affect biomedical traits like lung function.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 12, 2014

Researchers uncover new insights into developing rapid-acting antidepressant for treatment-resistant depression

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found that blocking NMDA receptors with ketamine can elicit rapid antidepressant effects in patients with treatment-resistant depression. The study suggests that this fundamental difference between ketamine and memantine could lead to a new class of drugs with fewer side effects.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 12, 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.

Tiny plants ride on the coattails of migratory birds

A team of researchers found that migratory birds carry small plant fragments, including mosses and spores, on their feathers, which can be used to establish new plant populations. This discovery suggests that birds may play a role in the long-distance dispersal of plants.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 12, 2014

Active particles may enhance phase separation

Researchers used molecular dynamics simulations and integral equation theoretical calculations to study the phase separation of active and passive particles. The introduction of activity was found to enhance phase separation in some cases, contrary to previous assumptions.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 12, 2014

Protein anchors help keep embryonic development 'just right'

Research reveals that lipid droplets play a crucial role in regulating histone proteins in fruit fly embryos, helping to maintain the 'perfect' balance required for development. The findings suggest that manipulating this process could potentially treat diseases linked to chromosome malfunction.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 12, 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.

Cancer drug boosts levels of vascular-protective gene, KLF2

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that existing cancer treatment bortezomib increases levels of the vascular-protective gene KLF2, preventing blood clot formation. This discovery has potential implications for managing thrombosis in patients with predispositions to clot formation.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBlood·DateJun 12, 2014

Families like practical group wellness program -- and lose weight

The Family Wellness Program, a behavioral treatment for obesity, shows promise in real-world settings. Children's body mass index improves, with 70% experiencing significant improvement and nearly half achieving weight loss. Parents' BMI also declines, leading to improved quality of life for children.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalThe Permanente Journal·DateJun 12, 2014

Recreational football can treat hypertensive and type 2 diabetes patients

Men with type 2 diabetes lost 12% of abdominal fat and reduced blood sugar levels by 20%, while those with high blood pressure showed improved heart rate and fitness, reducing the risk of heart disease. Football training also provided social benefits and increased motivation for further exercise.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateJun 12, 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.

Regular exercise beneficial in suppressing inflammation in rheumatic disease

Exercise has been shown to transiently suppress local and systemic inflammation in rheumatic disease, with benefits seen in the regulation of NF-kB activation and suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Regular exercise is necessary to achieve clinical efficacy and reduce the burden of rheumatic diseases.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 12, 2014

All men with gout should be routinely screened for erectile dysfunction

A new study finds that most men with gout have severe erectile dysfunction, highlighting the importance of screening for this condition. The study suggests that all men with gout should be routinely screened for erectile dysfunction to detect possible silent coronary artery disease.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 12, 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.

Blood product sterilization taken too far?

International study reveals blood product sterilization processes can prevent platelets from carrying out their functions correctly, potentially leading to hemorrhages. The processes alter the genetic material of pathogen-reducing treatments, depleting platelets of RNA and impairing their ability to synthesize essential proteins.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalPlatelets·DateJun 12, 2014

Severe scoliosis linked to rare mutations

Children with rare mutations in fibrillin-1 and fibrillin-2 genes are four times more likely to develop severe scoliosis than peers with normal versions. Drugs blocking a major growth pathway may prevent scoliosis in affected children.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJun 12, 2014

Long-range tunneling of quantum particles

A team of scientists at the University of Innsbruck has directly observed long-range tunneling of quantum particles through up to five potential barriers. The researchers used a gas of Cesium atoms in an engineered optical lattice, where they applied a directed force to initiate tunneling motion.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalScience·DateJun 12, 2014

With the right rehabilitation, paralyzed rats learn to grip again

Researchers developed a rehabilitative approach that boosted nerve fiber growth and trained animals to grip again after a large stroke. The study found that timing and training are crucial factors for successful recovery, with early application of growth stimulators triggering increased sprouting and growth of nerve fibers.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·DateJun 12, 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.

Does food addiction exist?

Women with weight problems exhibited impulsive behavior when presented with images of food, suggesting a possible predisposition to binge eating. The study found that these individuals lacked contemplative will power and were more stimulated by food images.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 12, 2014

Two Regenstrief investigators receive NIH career development awards

Two Regenstrief Institute investigators, Michael LaMantia and Noll L. Campbell, have received NIH career development awards to study delirium recognition in emergency departments and the adverse cognitive effects of medications in older adults. Their projects aim to improve care and management of older adults with delirium.

SourceIndiana University·DateJun 12, 2014
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.

Hereditary disease genes found throughout the human body

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology reveals that hereditary disease genes are found throughout the human body. This discovery highlights tissue-specific protein interactions and provides a powerful tool for identifying new therapeutic targets.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 12, 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.

New hi-tech approach to studying sedimentary basins

Researchers are developing new models to analyze sedimentary basins, combining geological data with complex simulations to better understand their formation and changes over time. The Basin GENESIS Hub aims to improve resource estimates and exploration targets in deep basins, particularly in remote regions of Australia.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateJun 12, 2014

Lower vitamin D level in blood linked to higher premature death rate

Researchers found that persons with lower blood vitamin D levels were twice as likely to die prematurely as those with higher levels, regardless of bone disease risks. The study supports previous findings on low vitamin D being hazardous and provides reassurance on safe dosing up to 4,000 IU/day.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 12, 2014

Scientists closing in on new obesity drug

Researchers develop computer model to speed up search for compound that activates FFA4 protein, a key player in appetite regulation and glucose uptake. The model aims to identify molecules that bind to the protein, potentially leading to a new obesity treatment.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 12, 2014

Father's age influences rate of evolution

A study published in Science found that father's age has a stronger impact on mutation rates in chimpanzees compared to humans, with 90% of new mutations originating from fathers.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalScience·DateJun 12, 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.

Rise and fall of prehistoric penguin populations charted

Over the last 30,000 years, three species of penguins - Chinstrap, Adélie, and southern Gentoo penguins - increased in numbers as Antarctica warmed. However, recent declines in some populations suggest ice is now retreating too far or too fast.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 12, 2014

NASA and NOAA satellites analyze Category 4 Hurricane Cristina

Hurricane Cristina has reached Category 4 status with maximum sustained winds near 155 mph. The National Hurricane Center expects the storm to maintain major hurricane strength for another 36 hours, posing life-threatening surf and riptide conditions along Mexico's west coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 12, 2014

Brain power

The study, led by Elizabeth M. C. Hillman, reveals the vascular endothelium plays a critical role in regulating blood flow in response to neuronal activity. This finding has far-reaching implications for understanding early brain development, disease, and aging.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJun 12, 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.

Processed red meat linked to higher risk of heart failure, death in men

A study published by the American Heart Association found that eating moderate amounts of processed red meat increases the risk of incidence and death from heart failure in men. The study, which included over 37,000 men aged 45-79, found that those who consumed the most processed red meat had a 28% higher risk of heart failure compared...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 12, 2014

A picture's worth a thousand words

Researchers developed a non-invasive imaging technique to track beta cell status in type 1 diabetes patients. The PET scan detects the amount of radiotracer in the pancreas, indicating the overall amount or volume of active beta cells present.

SourceJDRF·JournalDiabetes·DateJun 12, 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.

Gun violence and mental illness: Study addresses perception vs. reality

Researchers found that mass murderers with mental health problems are not typical of those who commit violent crimes, and most people with serious mental illness do not engage in violent acts. An evidence-based approach to limiting access to firearms for individuals with behavioral risk factors can reduce gun violence.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateJun 12, 2014

Mechanism explains complex brain wiring

Research reveals how neurons create and integrate with each other, shedding light on neurological diseases like autism. The study identifies Dscam1 protein variations as key to forming complex neural networks.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalScience·DateJun 11, 2014

Study IDs 'master' protein in pulmonary fibrosis

A study has identified chitinase 3-like-1 (CHI3L1) as the master regulator of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a devastating lung disease. CHI3L1 plays a dual role in promoting tissue repair and reducing cell death, but its chronic elevation contributes to excessive scarring and tissue dysfunction.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 11, 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.

Obesity gene linked to hormonal changes that favor energy surplus

A new study from Uppsala University found that elderly carriers of the FTO gene have higher ghrelin levels and lower leptin levels, making them more prone to weight gain. The study suggests that this genetic variant may facilitate weight gain by shifting the endocrine balance towards hunger hormone ghrelin.

SourceUppsala University·JournalDiabetes·DateJun 11, 2014

New strategies to combat MRSA in hospitals

The new guidelines provide a roadmap for prioritizing and implementing strategies to prevent healthcare-associated MRSA transmission and infection. Key highlights include conducting an MRSA risk assessment, implementing an MRSA monitoring program, and ensuring compliance with hand hygiene and contact precautions.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJun 11, 2014

Peer pressure is weaker for kids to quit smoking

A study of adolescent friendship networks and smoking use over time found that friends exert influence on both starting and quitting smoking, but the influence to start is stronger. Nonsmoking friends are unlikely to provide resources needed to help their smoking peers quit, making peer pressure a significant barrier to cessation.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateJun 11, 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.

Energy demands of raising a pup push sea otter moms to the limit

Researchers found that the daily energy demands of a female sea otter increase by 17% after giving birth to a pup and can be nearly twice what they are when she doesn't have a pup. The study reveals why female sea otters often appear in poor condition at the end of lactation period.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 11, 2014

Tendon stimulation the key to repair in 'tennis elbow'

Ultrasound-guided injections of growth factors-containing platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have been shown to be no more effective than saline injections in treating recently developed epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow. However, pain scores decreased significantly over the course of the trial.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 11, 2014

The 'microbial garden' taking the shine off glaciers

Researchers discovered a 'microbial garden' of life forms thriving on the Mittivakkat Glacier, reducing its surface reflectivity. This finding has significant implications for climate change models and the search for life on distant worlds.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalFEMS Microbiology Ecology·DateJun 11, 2014
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.

The solar wind breaks through the Earth's magnetic field

Researchers at the Swedish Institute of Space Physics studied solar wind interactions with the Earth's magnetic field. They found that asymmetrical reconnection can occur when two regions of plasma have different characteristics.

SourceSwedish Research Council·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 11, 2014