Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive March 2014


Page 5 of 34

Childhood virus may increase type 1 diabetes risk

Researchers found that rotavirus infection accelerates type 1 diabetes development through a bystander effect, where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. The study suggests that treatments targeting this immune response could be beneficial for preventing type 1 diabetes in children at risk.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Controlling electron spins by light

Topological insulators exhibit metallic conducting states at their surface, with electron spin playing a crucial role. Researchers have discovered that light can systematically manipulate the spin of electrons in these materials, opening up new possibilities for optospintronic devices.

Multi-family group treatment studied for spinal cord injury

A new clinical trial will assess whether multi-family group treatment can help individuals with spinal cord injuries and their caregivers cope better. The two-year project focuses on providing psychological support and coping strategies to improve patients' quality of life.

What psychosocial factors can help IVF patients?

A systematic review of 23 studies found that social support, mindfulness, and positive emotional outcomes are linked to better emotional adjustment in IVF patients. The study highlights the importance of coping strategies, personality traits, and social circumstances in predicting emotional outcomes during and after IVF treatment.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Smoke-free air policies seem to protect the heart

A new study on Michigan's smoke-free indoor air law found a statistically significant reduction in cardiovascular disease and death with related hospitalizations decreasing by 2.03 percent after the ban implementation.

Artificial hearts may help patients survive until transplant

Researchers found that five out of 22 patients implanted with total artificial hearts survived until they could receive a heart transplant, with four successfully undergoing transplants and 13 still alive waiting for donor hearts. The study suggests the device may help improve patient outcomes for those in end-stage heart failure.

Record quantum entanglement of multiple dimensions

Researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have achieved a groundbreaking quantum entanglement with a minimum of 103 dimensions using only two particles. This breakthrough enables the creation of highly complex states that can facilitate experimental development of quantum computers and enhance cryptography security.

The circadian clock is like an orchestra with many conductors

Researchers found that the circadian clock network in fruit flies consists of many independent clocks, each driving activity rhythms. This organization may also apply to mammals, with implications for alleviating adverse effects associated with circadian disorders.

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 researchers find key protein link

Researchers found a previously unknown binding interface between Bcl-2 and NAF-1 proteins, which could be addressed by medication. The study's findings have implications for treating cancer and age-related diseases.

Satellite time-lapse movie shows US East Coast snowy winter

The new animation shows the movement of storms from January 1 to March 24, revealing why the US East Coast had a snowy winter. The region experienced record snowfall, with cities like Boston and Washington D.C. receiving significantly more than their average winter snowfall.

Students on field course bag new spider species

A team of biology students from Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Naturalis Biodiversity Center discovered a new spider species during their Tropical Biodiversity field course in Malaysian Borneo. The students created a makeshift taxonomy lab, wrote a joint publication, and sent it to a major taxonomic journal for review.

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.

Democratizing data visualization

Researchers found that 69% of Exhibit sites use the JSON format for storing data, and users often exploit complex relationships among data beyond spreadsheet capabilities. The study suggests that spreadsheet designers should offer tools to make it easier for novice developers to organize their data in more sophisticated ways.

Gen X obesity a major problem for healthcare, workforce

Researchers found Gen X has significantly poorer health status, higher obesity rates, and no difference in physical activity compared to Baby Boomers. The study suggests drastic lifestyle changes, such as increased sedentary behavior and access to unhealthy food, contribute to earlier development of age-related conditions.

Ancient African cattle first domesticated in Middle East

A team of researchers found that ancient domesticated African cattle originated in the Fertile Crescent region nearly 10,000 years ago. The genetic history of 134 cattle breeds worldwide reveals mixing and admixture between native and imported breeds.

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.

Sleep may stop chronic pain sufferers from becoming 'zombies'

A study by the University of Warwick found that sleep quality is a key driver of daytime physical activity in chronic pain patients. Engaging in physical activity can be a crucial treatment process for managing chronic pain. By improving sleep quality, sufferers may overcome their motivation to stay inactive due to pain.

Big brown bat males call 'dibs' on food

Researchers discovered that male big brown bats use uniquely distinctive calls to signal they want a meal, while females primarily forage near family members. These social calls were previously unknown and have been found in over 96% of recorded instances.

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.

Instituting a culture of professionalism

Researchers analyzed data from a center for professionalism and peer support at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital and found that employees continued to turn to the center for help, citing concerns about physician/scientist behavior. The interventions used were successful in creating substantive changes in behavior.

Foraging bats can warn each other away from their dinners

Male big brown bats emit a unique 'back off' call, dubbed FMB, which warns other bats to keep away from claimed prey, increasing the caller's success in snagging insects. The call is only emitted by males and helps establish dominance or claim territory.

Big data keeps complex production running smoothly

Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed systems to process large amounts of industrial data, increasing plant availability and reducing energy consumption. By analyzing data in real-time, operators can quickly identify and eliminate disruptions, optimizing production processes.

Using tobacco to thwart infectious disease?

A team of researchers has developed a new generation of therapeutics against West Nile virus using tobacco plants. The monoclonal antibodies were shown to be effective in protecting mice from lethal doses even up to 4 days after infection.

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.

Mediterranean diet may lower risk of diabetes

A pooled analysis of studies found that adherence to the Mediterranean diet reduced diabetes risk by 21%, with an even greater reduction in those at high cardiovascular risk. The diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, may also help prevent obesity-related complications.

Simple blood test may predict if a child will become obese

Researchers have developed a simple blood test that can predict if a child will become obese based on epigenetic switches in the PGC1a gene. The study found that a rise in DNA methylation levels at age 5 was associated with up to 12% more body fat at age 14, regardless of physical activity or puberty timing.

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.

One gene, many tissues

The FANTOM project has published an exhaustive map of specificities in gene expression, revealing the first nucleotides of messenger RNA to identify where genes start synthesizing proteins. This study provides insights into how genes are regulated in different tissues, with implications for understanding diseases such as Parkinson's

Autoimmune drug may help prevent kidney disease caused by diabetes

A receptor called B7-1 is expressed by kidney cells during the progression of diabetic nephropathy, and targeting this receptor with abatacept helps to maintain kidney function in mice. The study suggests that clinical trials should be designed to test abatacept in diabetic patients.

Marathon training could help the heart

A study of 45 recreational male runners found that marathon training reduced bad cholesterol by 5%, triglycerides by 15% and improved heart health markers, including a 4% increase in peak oxygen consumption. The training program led to significant changes in key cardiovascular risk factors.

Wellcome Collection announces first project at the Hub

The Hub's interdisciplinary group will investigate the health implications of states of rest and noise, tumult and stillness, with a focus on transforming how we understand rest in modern life. The £1 million project aims to create new possibilities for people from all backgrounds to find rest in busy cities.

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.

Study shows promise of preserving fertility in boys with cancer

Scientists have developed a method to freeze testicular tissue in boys undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer, allowing them to preserve fertility. The study found that cancer cells were eliminated during the process of reproducing sperm-producing stem cells, making this option safe for future use.

Researchers reveal the dynamics behind Arctic ecosystems

Researchers have gathered data on Arctic tundra ecosystems, revealing temperature's decisive role in shaping food chains and ecosystem function. The study also highlights the importance of predation in regulating energy flows and ecosystem dynamics.

Researchers identify good bacteria that protects against HIV

A new method for studying the relationship between skin cells and good bacteria was developed, revealing certain bacterial communities alter HIV's ability to infect. The discovery has potential applications in understanding how vaginal products interact with good and bad bacteria.

Stool samples provide marker for bowel disease

Researchers have developed a novel method to distinguish between different types of bowel disease using stool samples, with an overall accuracy of 76%. The technique uses volatile organic compounds emitted from the samples to provide a unique profile for each condition, offering a cheaper and quicker alternative to current methods.

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.

The first insects were not yet able to smell well

Insects' sense of smell crucial for survival; recent study shows odorant receptors emerged long after terrestrial adaptation. The first insects were not yet able to smell well, with their complex olfactory systems evolving after the development of flying ability.

Antidepressants during pregnancy linked to preterm birth

A systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies on antidepressants in pregnancy found a strong association between their use and increased preterm birth rates. The study suggests that antidepressant medications may be contributing to the rising trend of preterm births, which can lead to significant health problems and costs.

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.

Agroforestry systems can repair degraded watersheds

A study in the Gabayan watershed, Philippines, found that agroforestry reduces sediment yield by 20% and increases income for farmers. Agroforestry also helps communities adapt to climate change by improving water management and ecosystem services.

GW researcher invents 'mini heart' to help return venous blood

Narine Sarvazyan invents a new organ, the 'mini heart', made of cardiac muscle cells, to help return venous blood flow. The cuff can be created from patient's own adult stem cells, eliminating rejection risk and treating chronic diseases like venous insufficiency.

The multiplication of cells under close observation

A team of researchers has discovered a cellular factor called Rif1 that regulates the timing of DNA replication, ensuring proper cell division and preventing tumor formation. The study suggests that Rif1 prevents 'DNA replication stress', a process causing genome instability.

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.

Scientists synthesize first functional 'designer' chromosome in yeast

Researchers at NYU Langone Health have synthesized a fully functioning chromosome in yeast using computer-aided design, overcoming the biggest hurdle in synthetic biology. The seven-year effort built a chromosome with over 270,000 base pairs, enabling new capabilities and traits in yeast cells.

Southerners more likely to die from heart attack

A new study reveals a significant disparity in heart attack mortality rates between regions of the US, with the South experiencing the highest death rates. The research suggests that socioeconomic and lifestyle factors, including lower median household income and unhealthy habits, may contribute to this disparity.

Despatch from the field

A new collaboration enables immediate access to taxonomic research and underlying data, reducing 'shelf life' from 21 years to weeks. The system facilitates data sharing and preservation, addressing 80% of scientific data loss within 10 years.

Kaixin Jieyu Fang for treatment of vascular depression

Researchers found that Kaixin Jieyu Fang reduces cerebral white matter damage by increasing Bcl-2 protein and mRNA expression, while decreasing Bax protein and mRNA expression. This compound may provide a potential therapeutic approach for treating vascular depression through its protective effects on the brain.

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.

CYGNSS hurricane satellite mission passes major review milestone

The CYGNSS mission will determine how a tropical cyclone forms and strengthen, improving hurricane forecasting and tracking. NASA has given a preliminary go-ahead to proceed with instrument development and launch of the hurricane-studying mission's eight microsatellites.

Sugary drinks weigh heavily on teenage obesity

A recent study found that sugary drinks significantly contribute to obesity among teenagers in British Columbia schools. Students consuming these drinks regularly were more likely to be obese, highlighting the importance of school food environments promoting healthy eating habits.