Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2014 - Page 26


Page 26 of 33

New molecule enables quick drug monitoring

Scientists at EPFL introduce a novel biosensor molecule that can quickly measure drug concentration in patients' systems using a digital camera. The method is simple, low-cost, and can be used by patients themselves.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 8, 2014

A tiny molecule may help battle depression

Researchers at McGill University discovered a tiny molecule, miR-1202, that regulates glutamate receptors and is lower in the brains of depressed individuals. The study found that this microRNA increases with antidepressant treatment, suggesting it could be a potential target for developing new treatments.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 8, 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.

Health Affairs asks: Where can we find savings in health care?

Healthcare experts examine potential cost savings in maternal mortality reduction, adolescent cancer treatment, and biosimilar medication use. Studies reveal the importance of long-term financing plans and access to follow-up care for improved outcomes.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 8, 2014

No limits to human effects on clouds

A study by Weizmann Institute researchers found that human activities have altered the types of clouds over pristine ocean areas, leading to increased cloud height and rainfall. The team's model accurately predicted these changes using satellite images and aerosol data, suggesting a significant impact on global climate patterns.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2014

Retracing early cultivation steps: Lessons from comparing citrus genomes

Researchers have analyzed and compared the genomes of ten diverse citrus varieties, revealing that they originated from two wild citrus species diverged in Southeast Asia over five million years ago. The study provides valuable insights into disease resistance and breeding strategies for improving citrus yields.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 8, 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.

More than just a hill of beans: Phaseolus genome lends insights into nitrogen fixation

The Phaseolus genome study provides valuable information on the genetic basis of nitrogen fixation in common beans, a crucial legume for agricultural sustainability. The research identified dense clusters of genes related to disease resistance and nitrogen metabolism, offering potential targets for future crop improvement efforts.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 8, 2014

Warming climates intensify greenhouse gas given out by oceans

A study suggests that warming climates can indirectly increase CO2 levels in the atmosphere by reducing iron and silicon availability in ocean waters. This is particularly significant in the southern ocean and equatorial Pacific, which play a crucial role in regulating atmospheric CO2.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 8, 2014

Targeting tumors using silver nanoparticles

The researchers designed a nanoparticle with a peptide coating to target tumor cells, allowing for efficient drug delivery. The shell is etchable, enabling the removal of excess particles using biocompatible chemicals.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 8, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Clinical review published in JAMA

A clinical review published in JAMA explores the diagnosis and management of mixed urinary incontinence in women, a condition affecting 20-36% of women. High-quality evidence supports treating stress and urge urinary incontinences with surgery and medications respectively.

SourceCare New England·JournalJAMA·DateJun 6, 2014

Magnetic moment of the proton measured with unprecedented precision

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz successfully measured the magnetic moment of a proton for the first time with unprecedented precision. The measurement has far exceeded previous attempts and will contribute to a better understanding of the matter/antimatter asymmetry in our universe.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2014

Prostate cancer biomarkers identified in seminal fluid

A study published in Endocrine-Related Cancer has identified specific molecules in seminal fluid that can detect prostate cancer and predict its severity. The presence of these microRNAs, particularly miR-200b, shows promise as a prognostic tool for indicating treatment urgency and type.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateJun 6, 2014

Lower asthma risk is associated with microbes in infants' homes

A new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that infants exposed to a diverse range of bacterial species in house dust during the first year of life are less likely to develop asthma in early childhood. The study, led by UCSF researchers, suggests that immune responses may be shaped by exposures during...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 6, 2014

Scientists reveal details of calcium 'safety-valve' in cells

Researchers have identified a protein that regulates calcium levels in cells, which could be a promising strategy for fighting cancers. The study reveals how this protein serves as a molecular safety valve to maintain steady calcium levels.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 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.

Three gene networks discovered in autism, may present treatment targets

Researchers have uncovered three gene networks in autism that could lead to new treatments for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia. The networks, which affect neurotransmitter signaling, may also provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying autism.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014

Brain traffic jams that can disappear in 30 seconds

Researchers discovered that certain blockages in fruit fly brains quickly resolve themselves, suggesting a distinction between benign and permanent blocks. This study could help scientists identify and treat neurodegenerative diseases by focusing on permanent blockages.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2014

Opening a wide window on the nano-world of surface catalysis

Researchers bridge the size gap to study kinetic behavior of Ag nanocatalysts using SERS, providing real-time reaction information. The stepped surface of etched nanoparticles mimics sub-5-nm environment, increasing active surface atoms' participation in catalysis.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 6, 2014

Better tissue healing with disappearing hydrogels

A University of Rochester research team has created a technique that keeps stem cells in place, resulting in faster and better tissue regeneration. The key is encasing the stem cells in polymers that attract water and disappear when their work is done.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateJun 6, 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.

Exotic particle confirmed

Physicists confirm existence of exotic dibaryon made up of six quarks, a complex particle that could open door to new physical phenomena. The discovery was made using the WASA-at-COSY collaboration and has been published in Physical Review Letters.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 6, 2014

Shatterproof screens that save smartphones

Researchers at the University of Akron have developed a shatterproof screen technology using a transparent electrode that is tough, flexible and cost-effective. The new film can withstand repeated scotch tape peeling and bending tests, offering a potential replacement for traditional touchscreen displays.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 6, 2014

Early exposure to certain bacteria may protect toddlers from wheezing

A NIH-funded study found that early life exposure to specific combinations of allergens and bacteria protects against wheezing and allergic disease. The Urban Environment and Childhood Asthma (URECA) study revealed that cockroach, mouse, and cat exposure during the first year of life is associated with a lower risk of recurrent wheezing.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 6, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mitochondrial DNA of first Near Eastern farmers is sequenced for the first time

The study provides a new framework to interpret previous research on European Neolithic populations, suggesting that the expansion took place through pioneer seafaring colonization. Genetic affinities between the mitochondrial DNA of first Neolithic farmers and those of Catalan and German farmers support this hypothesis.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 6, 2014

Infection in malaria-transmitting mosquito discovered

Researchers have found evidence of an intercellular bacterial infection in natural populations of two species of Anopheles mosquitoes, a major vector of malaria. The Wolbachia infection has been shown to reduce the incidence of pathogen infections in mosquitoes and could be used to control malaria-transmitting mosquito populations.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014

Breakthrough study solves plant sex mystery

A team of biologists at the University of Leicester has discovered a pair of proteins called DAZ1 and DAZ2 that are essential for making twin sperm cells in plants. The study reveals how these proteins work together with a 'master switch' protein DUO1 to control a gene network that ensures a pair of fertile sperm is produced.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJun 6, 2014

NWO Spinoza Prizes 2014 announced

The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) has awarded the NWO Spinoza Prize to four outstanding researchers: Dirk Bouwmeester, Corinne Hofman, Mark van Loosdrecht, and Theunis Piersma. They will receive 2.5 million euros to pursue their research in various fields of science.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateJun 6, 2014

Probiotics prevent deadly complications of liver disease

A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that probiotics can modify the gut microbiota to prevent hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. The researchers discovered that probiotic supplementation was not associated with any side effects, suggesting a safer treatment option.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJun 6, 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.

Biomarkers accurately distinguish mesothelioma from non-cancerous tissue

Scientists have identified four microRNAs that can aid in the differential diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) from non-cancerous pleural tissue. The biomarkers, miR-126, miR-143, miR-145, and miR-652, were found to classify tissue samples with high accuracy.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJun 6, 2014

Football for untrained 70-year-old men

Untrained elderly men achieved marked improvements in maximum oxygen uptake, muscle function, and bone mineralization after playing football for four months. The study shows that intense football training can change the lives of elderly men, making it easier to live an active life and overcome physical challenges.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateJun 6, 2014

Evolution of a bimetallic nanocatalyst

Researchers used in situ TEM to study the evolution of platinum/cobalt nanoparticles during reactions in oxygen and hydrogen gases. They found that cobalt atoms migrate to form a cobalt oxide epitaxial film, which affects catalytic performance.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 6, 2014

Satellite sees System 90L dissipating over Mexico

A tropical low pressure area in the Bay of Campeche is showing signs of development, with cloud-top temperatures near -63F (-52C). The system has a 50% chance for formation, threatening southeastern Mexico with heavy rains and life-threatening flash floods.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Sleep apnea tied to diabetes in large study

A large Canadian study of over 8,500 patients found a significant link between obstructive sleep apnea and the development of diabetes. The study confirmed earlier evidence and identified that initial severity of OSA predicted subsequent risk for incident diabetes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 6, 2014

Endoscope with an oxygen sensor detects pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed an optical blood oxygen sensor attached to an endoscope that can identify pancreatic cancer with a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 86%. The device measures changes in blood flow near the pancreas, which tumors alter to grow. Early detection is crucial as most pancreatic cancers are diagno...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 6, 2014

Our ability to identify the source of pain varies across the body

Researchers create systematic map of pain acuity distribution across body, revealing surprising similarities with touch sensitivity. The study uses lasers to cause pain in healthy volunteers and a rare patient lacking touch sensation, demonstrating that pain acuity does not rely on touch.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Argument with dad? Find friendly ears to talk it out, study shows

A recent study by San Francisco State University's Jeff Cookston found that adolescents receiving a reason for their father's behavior or a better understanding of who is at fault feel better about themselves and dad. This, in turn, is linked to a lower risk of depression for youth.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateJun 6, 2014

York scientists provide new insights into biomass breakdown

Researchers from the University of York have provided new information on how LPMOs work, enabling the degradation of hard-to-digest biomass into its constituent sugars. This breakthrough aims to improve second-generation biofuel production by fermenting cellulose into bioethanol.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2014

Asymmetric continental margins and the slow birth of an ocean

Researchers from GFZ, University of Sydney, and University of London discovered that the centre of a rift migrates laterally during continental break-up, causing asymmetry in continental margins. This process leads to the formation of thin crustal slivers on one side and more pronounced asymmetry due to faster extension velocity.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014

Tougher penalties credited for fewer casualties among young male drivers

A new study found a significant decline in speeding-related injuries and fatalities among young men in Ontario since the province's tough laws were introduced in 2007. The study credits the deterrence of swift and severe sanctions for reducing risky driving behavior.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateJun 6, 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.

Toward a better drug against malaria

Researchers from the University of Freiburg have made significant progress in understanding how the antimalarial drug atovaquone works. By analyzing its molecular structure, they have identified key binding sites and revealed the underlying mechanism of resistance to mutations. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more ef...

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014

Text messaging program helps smokers fight the urge to light up

A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that a text-messaging program helped over 11% of smokers quit smoking compared to just 5% of controls. The program provided personalized advice and reminders to help smokers stay on track with their quitting efforts.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 6, 2014

Herpesviruses undercover

Scientists at HZI have shown that herpesviruses like KSHV and MHV68 modulate the TLR-induced proinflammatory cytokine response, allowing them to remain within the body for a long time. The researchers discovered that the virus actively prevents activation of the innate immune system through Toll-like receptors.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJun 6, 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.

Deadly diseases overlooked for too long, scientists say

Researchers found three diseases have failed to receive official recognition and funding, impacting human and animal health in developing nations. A multidisciplinary One Health approach could improve human and animal health and control these diseases.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 6, 2014

Method of nickel-carbon heterofullerenes synthesis presented

Scientists from MIPT, RAS, Kurchatov Institute and Kintech Lab Ltd have developed a new method to synthesize nickel-carbon compounds using electron irradiation. The study reveals potential electronic, magnetic and optic features of these compounds.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalDalton Transactions·DateJun 6, 2014

Protecting mainland Europe from an invasion of grey squirrels

A new study finds that grey squirrels' genetic diversity directly impacts their ability to invade and spread across European environments. The research reveals that small founding population sizes result in reduced genetic diversity, hindering the squirrels' capacity for invasion.

SourceImperial College London·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateJun 5, 2014

Seemingly invincible cancers stem cells reveal a weakness

Researchers at Whitehead Institute have identified a critical weakness in metastatic cancer cells, which are resistant to current anticancer drugs. The compound targets the endoplasmic reticulum of these cells, causing them to die.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJun 5, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Rice developing mobile DNA test for HIV

Researchers at Rice University have developed a nucleic acid-based test to detect signs of HIV and track viral loads in patients in low-resource settings. The new test, called qRPA, uses recombinase polymerase amplification and can be performed at the site of care, eliminating the need for complex lab equipment.

SourceRice University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJun 5, 2014

Molecular self-assembly scales up from nanometers to millimeters

Researchers have successfully scaled up molecular self-assembly from nanometers to millimeters using noncovalent interactions, enabling the creation of large-area nanostructures. This breakthrough paves the way for alternative patterning techniques in nanoelectronics and materials science.

SourceVTT Technical Research Centre of Finland·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 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.

New research provides better understanding of endometriosis

A mouse model of endometriosis has been developed that produces lesions similar to those found in humans. The study suggests that macrophages present in shed endometrium contribute to the development of endometriotic lesions, providing new insights into the disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJun 5, 2014

Flowers' polarization patterns help bees find food

Researchers found that bumblebees can differentiate between rewarding and aversive artificial flowers based on their polarization patterns. The bees' ability to recognize these patterns helps them identify suitable flowers for obtaining a food reward.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 5, 2014

Short nanotubes target pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Rice University have developed customized carbon nanotubes that can deliver chemotherapy agents to pancreatic cancer cells. The nanotubes are small enough to pass through the pores of cancer-related blood vessels, allowing them to target and infiltrate the nuclei of cancerous cells.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry B·DateJun 5, 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.