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Science News Archive March 2014


Page 12 of 34

Box-shaped pressure vessel for LNG developed by KAIST research team

The KAIST team created a box-type pressure vessel with a lattice structure, which can efficiently store liquefied natural gas (LNG) without the need for multiple cylindrical tanks. This design reduces space utilization issues and lowers manufacturing costs by using special steel alloys.

A new way to make muscle cells from human stem cells

Researchers have developed a new technique to generate large concentrations of skeletal muscle cells and muscle progenitors directly from human pluripotent stem cells. This method, described in Stem Cells Translational Medicine, uses growth factors to guide the stem cells towards a muscle fate, avoiding genetic modification.

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.

Who reprograms rat astrocytes into neurons?

Researchers have successfully reprogrammed rat astrocytes into neurons using Mash1, a transcription factor. This method avoids malignant transformation and offers a promising therapeutic strategy for neural regeneration.

With a few finger taps, draw genetic pedigrees at point of care with new app

The Proband app allows healthcare providers to create digital genetic pedigrees on iPads, streamlining family history data collection and integration. The app's gesture-based interface and auto-alignment feature make it easy for clinicians to draw complex family diagrams, reducing errors and improving patient care.

Researchers develop a novel antibacterial orthodontic bracket cement

A new antibacterial orthodontic cement containing dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) inhibits biofilm formation and reduces lactic acid production. The results show that the DMADDM-containing cement is promising for reducing demineralization in enamel around orthodontic brackets.

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.

P&G Beauty to present advancements in skin care technologies at annual AAD Meeting

P&G Beauty presents several studies on new ingredient formulations and effective skin care routines, focusing on cellular bioenergetics, anti-aging technologies, and sensitive skin body wash efficacy. The company highlights breakthroughs in microdermabrasion systems, such as the Pro-X Olay Microdermabrasion system, which exfoliates eff...

Homeless with TBI more likely to visit ER

A study of homeless and vulnerably housed individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) found they are more likely to visit emergency departments, be arrested or assaulted. The research highlights the importance of screening for TBI and providing support to manage behaviors after brain injuries.

New method can diagnose a feared form of cancer

Researchers have developed a method to predict pancreatic cancer from cysts in the pancreas, detecting mucus protein with 97% certainty. The approach minimizes unnecessary operations and may enable early detection of cancer.

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.

Gene expression signature reveals new way to classify gum disease

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have devised a new system for classifying periodontal disease based on the genetic signature of affected tissue. The new classification system may allow for earlier detection and more individualized treatment of severe periodontitis.

Switching an antibiotic on and off with light

Scientists create peptide mimetic that can be controlled by light, increasing antimicrobial effect and reducing side effects. The development opens new options for treating local bacterial infections and may lead to new agents against cancer.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Permafrost thaw: No upside

A new study found that growing season gains from permafrost thaw are outweighed by increased winter respiration, leading to enhanced carbon losses. The research suggests that the Arctic's stored carbon could reach catastrophic levels within a century if permafrost continues to thaw.

Ground-improvement methods might protect against earthquakes

Researchers from Purdue University and the University of Texas at Austin have conducted field trials to test four shallow-ground-improvement methods aimed at increasing structural resilience in soils prone to liquefaction. The results show that rapid impact compaction, rammed aggregate piers, low-mobility grouting, and double row of ho...

Size, personality matter in how Kalahari social spiders perform tasks

A study on southern African social spiders found that body size affects task assignment, with smaller spiders involved in web building and maintenance. The research also showed that colony 'personality' varies depending on individual spider traits, leading to cooperative breeding societies.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The amazing anatomy of James Webb Space Telescope mirrors

The James Webb Space Telescope features a primary mirror composed of 18 smaller lightweight mirror segments, each with precise actuators to align and shape the mirror. The segments are designed to work together as one giant mirror, capturing light from distant galaxies and stars in space.

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.

Anti-counterfeit 'fingerprints' made from silver nanowires

A team of researchers from South Korea has developed a novel technique to authenticate goods by creating unique patterns made from tiny, randomly scattered silver nanowires. The 'fingerprints' are almost impossible to replicate due to their natural randomness and difficulty in manipulating the tiny materials.

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.

Combo of overweight, high sodium intake speeds cell aging in teens

A recent study found that high sodium intake in teenagers can lead to faster cell aging, with overweight and obese teens showing the most significant effects. Researchers analyzed data from 766 people aged 14-18 and discovered that those who consumed more salt had shorter telomeres, which protect chromosomes from damage.

Oregon physicists use geometry to understand 'jamming' process

Researchers used a supercomputer and geometric signatures to visualize why objects jam when compressed, capturing fundamental insights about the jamming process. The study has potential applications for preventing factory congestion, separating oil deposits, and efficient data transfer on the Internet.

A braking system for immune responses

A team of researchers at the Technical University of Munich has identified a receptor that limits the immune response to uric acid crystals, preventing overreaction and damaging healthy tissue. The discovery sheds light on the fundamental mechanism by which the immune system recognizes crystalline structures.

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.

$1.5 million grant helps turn chemical weapon into medical marvel

Researchers have developed controllable chemical compounds that can deliver protective effects of toxic hydrogen sulfide gas, reducing heart attack injury by up to 70%. The technology aims to unlock the gas's therapeutic potential in treating conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

Eyes are windows to the soul -- and evolution

A Cornell University neuroscientist's study finds that human facial expressions arose from universal, adaptive reactions to environmental stimuli. The findings suggest that emotional responses influence vision at the earliest moments of visual encoding, leading to contrasting eye movements that filter our reality.

Colonoscopy isn't perfect: About 6 percent of colorectal cancers are missed

A study by researchers from Huntsman Cancer Institute found that about 6 percent of colorectal cancers are missed during colonoscopies, particularly in patients over 65 and those with a family history of the disease. The cancers may develop rapidly after the procedure or be overlooked due to factors like polyp size or location.

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.

New approach makes cancer cells explode

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new mechanism to kill glioblastoma cells using Vacquinol-1, which causes uncontrolled vacuolization leading to cell explosion and necrosis. This approach may lead to new cancer treatments, potentially working for other cancer diseases.

New type of cell communication regulates blood vessel formation and tumor growth

Researchers at Uppsala University discovered a new type of cell communication that suppresses blood vessel formation and delays tumour growth. Fluctuating levels of the molecule NRP1 can inhibit VEGF signals, leading to delayed tumour growth and potentially complete inhibition if trans communication occurs early in tumour development.

What singing fruit flies can tell us about quick decisions

Researchers at Princeton University found that male fruit flies adjust the pitch and tempo of their mating song based on the movement and behavior of their desired female. The study provides insights into how organisms make rapid decisions in response to changing environments, a concept relevant to understanding human brain function.

Elsevier's Maturitas publishes position statement on menopause for medical students

The European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) has published a position statement on menopause for medical students, emphasizing the importance of managing postmenopausal health. The statement provides guidance on stages of reproductive aging, menopause terminology, and treatment options, including menopausal hormone therapy and ...

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.

Thoughtful people more likely to infer improvements in race relations

New research by Jane L. Risen of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business shows that people are more likely to deny the persistence of racism after being exposed to a successful African American. Thoughtful individuals are particularly vulnerable to making quick inferences about racial disparity.

Ancient clam gardens nurture food security

Researchers discovered that ancient clam gardens made by Aboriginal people produced quadruple the number of butter clams and twice the number of littleneck clams as unmodified clam beaches. This study provides practical insights into sustainable ancient marine management techniques for local food security strategies.

Richard Tapia, mathematician and mentor, receives 2014 Vannevar Bush Award

Richard Tapia, a mathematician and mentor, is the 2014 recipient of the Vannevar Bush Award. He has increased opportunities for underrepresented minorities in science and mathematics through his work at Rice University. Tapia's efforts have led to significant progress in producing women and minority Ph.D.s in mathematical sciences.

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.

9/11 linked to two heart disease culprits: Obstructive sleep apnea and PTSD

Researchers found a significant link between exposure to inhaled particulate matter at Ground Zero and the development of obstructive sleep apnea and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in first responders. The study also showed that those with PTSD had higher levels of inflammation, increasing their risk for cardiovascular disease.

One-third of kids with obesity 'metabolically healthy,' study shows

A study of 181 children with obesity aged eight to 17 years old found that up to a third could be classified as 'metabolically healthy,' meaning they're not at risk of developing insulin resistance or other obesity-related diseases. Lifestyle behaviors such as physical activity and diet played a crucial role in their health status.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Stanford professor maps by-catch as unintended consequence of global fisheries

A new analysis reveals the scope of by-catch in various regions, with high rates found in the eastern Pacific, Mediterranean, southwest Atlantic, and Southern Indian oceans. The study emphasizes the importance of community engagement and data-driven approaches to mitigate by-catch, particularly in less-regulated small-scale fisheries.

Research brings new control over topological insulator

Researchers have shown that tensile strain can lift topological order and compressive strain can shift the Dirac point in Bi2Se3 films, enhancing or destroying Dirac states. This breakthrough suggests new ways to control TI electronic properties by applying stress.

NASA sees ex-Tropical Cyclone Gillian's remnants persist

The TRMM satellite has been monitoring the persistent remnants of Tropical Cyclone Gillian since its formation in March 2014. The storm's coherent remnants have moved westward over 2,700 km and are re-organizing in the Southern Indian Ocean.

(Not too) few but capable

Researchers from SISSA and ICTP developed a model simulating collective behavior of groups, finding the number of informed individuals, sociality, and decision strength as critical variables. The study suggests that even minimal fluctuations in these variables can lead to catastrophic changes.

Surgery after major stroke also improves survival odds in elderly patients

A clinical study led by Heidelberg University Hospital's Neurology and Neurosurgery found that hemicraniectomy significantly improves survival rates in elderly patients after a major stroke. The procedure reduces mortality from 70% to 33% but also results in nearly 30% of patients being very severely disabled.

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.

How localized bacterial infections can turn into dangerous sepsis

Researchers found that even with large doses of bacteria, sepsis often starts with just one bacterium. The immune system efficiently clears most bacteria, but sometimes a single founder bacterium survives and multiplies to cause disease. Macrophages play a key role in this process.

Big government -- or good neighbors -- can improve people's health

A new study from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln explores the connection between ideology, social capital, and health. The research found that states with high levels of liberalism and social trust have higher levels of health and well-being, suggesting that strong communities play a crucial role in promoting good health.

Can a treadmill help seniors avoid falls?

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a computerized treadmill program to prevent falls in older adults. Studies show that people can be trained not to fall, with adaptations retained for up to 12 months. The training is safe even for those with reduced bone density or osteoporosis.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Surprising new way to kill cancer cells

Scientists at Northwestern University have discovered that cancer cells rely on the FAS receptor and its binding component for survival, making them vulnerable to elimination. The team created a cancer cell completely devoid of CD95, which resulted in DNA damage and cell death, offering a promising new approach to kill cancer cells.

Genome-wide association studies mislead on cardiac arrhythmia risk gene

Scientists from the University of Chicago discovered that DNA variants in SCN10A regulate SCN5A expression, suggesting a primary role for SCN5A in cardiac arrhythmia risk. The study highlights the importance of evaluating functional targets of genome-wide association study hits to avoid costly implications.