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Science News Archive June 2014 - Page 29


Page 29 of 33

Astronomers discover first Thorne-Zytkow object, a bizarre type of hybrid star

Scientists detect the first Thorne-Żytkow object, a bizarre type of hybrid star formed from red supergiant and neutron stars. The discovery provides evidence for a new model of stellar interiors and offers insights into heavy element production in the universe.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 4, 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.

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 4, 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.

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.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceTufts Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 4, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceDrexel University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJun 4, 2014

Shaken, not stirred: Control over complex systems consisting of many quantum particles

Researchers at TU Vienna develop a new method to utilize quantum mechanical vibrations for high precision measurements in complex multi-particle systems. They successfully control hundreds of Rubidium atoms in an ultracold Bose-Einstein condensate, enabling the use of collective motional states for interferometric measurements.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAntiquity·DateJun 4, 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.

Does practice make perfect? Or are some people more creative than others? If so, why?

A new study published in the Creativity Research Journal found that brain integration, or mind-brain development, is strongly correlated with creativity in product-development engineers. Higher levels of brain integration were associated with greater flexibility and originality in verbal and figural creativity tests.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalCreativity Research Journal·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·DateJun 4, 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.

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 4, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJun 4, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalPsychiatric Genetics·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceRutgers University·DateJun 4, 2014
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.

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.

SourceLoyola Medicine·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2014
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.

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.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalFood Hydrocolloids·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJun 4, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2014

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.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 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.

Five-question clinical tool the first to help screen risk of violence in military veterans

A new 5-question clinical tool, VIO-SCAN, can help clinicians screen for risk of violence in military veterans by considering financial stability, combat experience, alcohol misuse, and PTSD plus anger. The study highlights the need to focus on non-PTSD factors beyond just PTSD when understanding violence in veterans.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJun 4, 2014

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...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 4, 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.

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.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateJun 3, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 3, 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.

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.

SourceOregon State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateJun 3, 2014

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.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 3, 2014