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Science News for March 7, 2014


Promising news for solar fuels from Berkeley Lab researchers at JCAP

Researchers at JCAP have developed a new hybrid material that stores nearly 90% of the electrons generated by solar energy in hydrogen molecules. This breakthrough could address one of the major challenges in using artificial photosynthesis to produce renewable solar fuels. The material, which combines gallium phosphide and cobaloxime ...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateMar 7, 2014

Deer proliferation disrupts a forest's natural growth

A burgeoning deer population alters forest progression by creating environmental havoc in the soil and disrupting seed banks. The study found that deer grazing stunts forest development, promoting invasive species like buckthorn and viburnum, which stall natural growth and reduce native plant diversity.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 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.

After years of improving, rates of youth suicide-related behaviors stopped declining

After four years of decline, the rate of teenagers coming into Ontario emergency departments with suicide-related behaviors stopped dropping between 2006 and 2010. The rates did not continue to drop and about one-third more of these events resulted in a hospital admission, suggesting an increase in severity.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2014

Research on 3-D scaffolds sets new bar in lung regeneration

Researchers have developed novel techniques for engineering lungs using 3D scaffolds, enabling high-throughput studies of human lungs and accelerating progress towards lung tissue regeneration. The new methods allow for selective injection of stem cells into decellularized lung segments while preserving vascular and airway channels.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 7, 2014

Pre-term birth and asthma

Research reveals that preterm birth increases the risk of asthma and wheezing disorders, with a 70% higher risk among preterm babies compared to full-term infants. Children born before 32 weeks gestation face approximately three times the risk.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 7, 2014

Activity more than location affects perception of quakes

A new study by Italian researchers suggests that a person's activity at the time of a quake influences their perception of shaking more than their location. People in motion had the worst perception, while those who were asleep on higher floors reported stronger shaking.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateMar 7, 2014

Urbanization exposes French cities to greater seismic risk

Rapid urbanization exposes French cities to significant seismic risk, with old structures posing a major vulnerability. The study found that if the 1909 Lambesc earthquake were to occur today, the region would suffer serious consequences, including damage to over 15,000 buildings.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateMar 7, 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.

New NASA Van Allen Probes observations helping to improve space weather models

New NASA Van Allen Probes observations help scientists test and improve a model to forecast radiation environment changes in near-Earth space. By combining data from the Van Allen Probes with computer simulations, researchers can better predict how particles and energy affect the Earth's atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 7, 2014

Hospital food safety measures reduce risk of contaminated hospital food

A new study found that more than 80% of raw chicken used in hospitals was contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant risk to patients and staff. However, robust food safety measures taken by hospital kitchen staff were able to prevent the spread of these pathogens.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 7, 2014

Agricultural fires across the Indochina landscape

Agricultural fires in Indochina have detrimental effects on the environment, releasing vast amounts of smoke that cause air pollution. The fires also pose health risks to individuals with respiratory concerns.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2014

Cells appearing normal may actually be harbingers of lung cancer

Researchers identified cancer markers and a previously unknown gene role in airways of smokers with lung cancer, suggesting earlier detection and treatment strategies. The study found that normal-appearing tissue near tumors has tumor-associated molecular abnormalities, potentially aiding in diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 7, 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.

Service is key to winery sales

Researchers found that customer service is key to boosting tasting room sales, with staff expertise and ambience creating a more intimate experience. The study also discovered that sensory descriptions of wine flavors can be off-putting for consumers, especially tourists.

SourceCornell University·JournalInternational Journal of Wine Business Research·DateMar 7, 2014

New high-tech glasses detect cancer cells during surgery

A team of scientists created wearable technology that helps surgeons visualize cancer cells by making them glow blue, reducing the need for follow-up surgeries and associated costs. The innovation uses a custom video display, head-mounted device, and targeted molecular agent to distinguish cancer cells from healthy tissue.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMar 7, 2014

For older drivers, study finds, 1 drink may be 1 too many

A study published in Psychopharmacology found that even moderate alcohol levels can affect driving abilities of older adults, potentially leading to reassessment of legal blood alcohol limits. Researchers tested two age groups, ages 25-35 and 55-70, and found that a single drink impaired older drivers' skills

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateMar 7, 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.

Education 'protects' poor women from fattening effects of rising wealth

A new UCL study suggests that more educated consumers in middle- and low-income countries make better food choices that mitigate the negative effects of rising wealth on obesity levels. The study found a 14-19% lower risk of obesity among women with secondary or higher education, compared to those with less education.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2014

Interactive simulator for vehicle drivers

Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics ITWM developed an interactive driving simulator to analyze realistic human-vehicle interaction. The facility features a real vehicle interior, robotic system, and motion cueing algorithms to match visual input with driver behavior.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 7, 2014

NYU researchers find majority of Latinas are unaware of their risk of diabetes

The study found that nearly 4 million Latinas were never told they were at risk for diabetes, highlighting the need for effective and culturally sensitive follow-up care and case management. Alternate sites like optometry venues, pharmacies, or places of worship could increase access to education and self-management programs.

SourceNew York University·JournalHispanic Health Care International·DateMar 7, 2014

Ever-so-slight delay improves decision-making accuracy

Researchers found that delaying the onset of decisions can improve response accuracy by allowing the brain to focus on relevant information and block out distractions. This mechanism is more beneficial than prolonging the decision process, which increases reaction times.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2014

Anti-psychotic medications offer new hope in the battle against glioblastoma

Researchers have discovered that FDA-approved anti-psychotic drugs possess tumor-killing activity against glioblastoma. The finding is based on shRNA technology that identifies genes required for glioblastoma growth and reveals surprising links to dopamine regulation, a crucial component in treating Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateMar 7, 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.

Notre Dame chemists discover new class of antibiotics

A team of researchers from Notre Dame has discovered a new class of oxadiazole antibiotics effective against MRSA and other drug-resistant bacteria, offering a promising treatment option. The discovery is based on the inhibition of penicillin-binding proteins and shows promise in mouse models of infection.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 7, 2014

Epigenetic changes could explain type 2 diabetes

Researchers at Lund University found epigenetic changes in approximately 800 genes of people with type 2 diabetes, which could contribute to reduced insulin production. Epigenetic changes are reversible and can be influenced by factors like age, BMI, and lifestyle.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 7, 2014

Emerging multi-drug resistant infections lack standard definition and treatment

Researchers found significant variations in definitions and isolation procedures for multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria across hospitals. The inconsistent detection and treatment practices may hinder communication between healthcare centers, contributing to the spread of these deadly pathogens.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 7, 2014

Software analyzes apps for malicious behavior

Researchers at Saarland University have developed software to detect malicious apps in app stores, identifying potential security threats. The software analyzes code access patterns to flag suspicious behavior, with over 3,000 apps already tested.

SourceSaarland University·DateMar 7, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smartphones become 'eye-phones' with low-cost devices developed by Stanford

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed two inexpensive adapters that allow smartphones to capture high-quality images of the front and back of the eye. The adapters make it easy for anyone with minimal training to take a picture of the eye and share it securely with other health practitioners or store it i...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Mobile Technology in Medicine·DateMar 7, 2014

New guidelines employ a team approach to autism diagnosis and care

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has revised key parameters for evaluating and treating autism, emphasizing early diagnosis and a team approach to care. Researchers led by Fred Volkmar recommend a coordinated medical, psychological, and communication evaluation to differentiate between autism and other disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2014

Keck Foundation award for biomedical imaging

Angelique Louie, a UC Davis professor, has been awarded a $1 million grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation to develop novel technology for detecting gene expression in deep tissues using bioluminescent gene reporters and MRI. The project aims to facilitate noninvasive imaging for various biomedical applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMar 7, 2014

Squeezing light into metals

University of Utah engineers create microscopic structures that use light in metals to carry information, controlling electrical conductivity with an inexpensive inkjet printer. The technique could lead to rapid fabrication of superfast components and faster wireless technology.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMar 7, 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.

Bone turnover markers predict prostate cancer outcomes

Researchers found that biomarkers for bone formation and resorption predict outcomes for men with castration-resistant prostate cancer. Elevated markers also identify patients who respond to investigational drug atrasentan, enabling clinicians to match treatments and track effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 7, 2014

Danish nasal filter looks promising for allergy sufferers

A clinical study from Aarhus University finds that a newly developed Danish mini-filter, Rhinix, appears to be significantly more effective against the discomfort of seasonal hay fever than a filterless placebo. The filter reduces nasal symptoms by up to 75% and alleviates throat irritation.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMar 7, 2014

NASA satellites see double tropical trouble for Queensland, Australia

Two tropical low pressure systems, System 96P and System 98P, are developing in the Coral Sea and northern Gulf of Carpentaria, respectively. These storms have strengthened, with sustained winds reported on Willis Island, and are expected to make landfall near Queensland's eastern coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2014
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.

Traffic-related air pollution associated with changes in right ventricular structure and function

Research associates high traffic-related air pollution exposure with increased right ventricular mass and volume, linking it to a higher risk of heart failure and cardiovascular death. The study found that participants exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide had greater right ventricular changes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 7, 2014

People more willing to disclose experience of mental health problems, survey finds

A national survey found that people are more likely to disclose experiences of depression and early schizophrenia, with increased recognition of symptoms and reduced stigma. The study suggests that improved knowledge and beliefs about mental health problems contribute to the increase in willingness to disclose.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalAustralian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2014

Europe's largest badger study finds rare long-distance movements

A four-year study in Ireland found that five percent of badgers traveled over 7.5km from their setts, with the longest recorded distance being 22.1km. This information is crucial for designing policies to tackle tuberculosis within cattle populations and understanding how infection is maintained and spread within badger populations.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 7, 2014

New approach to prostate cancer screening needed

A new approach to prostate cancer screening is needed, focusing on high-risk men rather than the entire population. The risk-based approach uses a computer-generated calculator that assesses factors like PSA levels, family history, and ethnicity to identify those at greatest risk.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMar 7, 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 theory on cause of endometriosis

A new theory proposes that epigenetic modification plays a key role in the development of endometriosis, a chronic disease affecting 1 in 10 women. The research suggests that alterations in the epigenetic landscape, rather than genetic mutations, contribute to the disease's progression.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 7, 2014