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Science News Archive March 2014 - Page 10


Page 10 of 34

One in 10 male, same-sex Craigslist ads seek men who don't identify as gay

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that men seeking non-gay-identified (NGI) partners on Craigslist tend to prioritize anonymity and masculinity, which may increase the risk of HIV transmission. Only a small percentage of NGI-seeking ads mentioned safe sex or condom use.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPsychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity·DateMar 24, 2014

NASA spots Tropical Cyclone Gillian's eye closing

Tropical Cyclone Gillian's maximum sustained winds peaked at 140 knots/161.1 mph/259.3 kph on March 23 as it pulled away from Indonesia. The storm began to weaken due to upper-level northwesterly wind shear and a mid-level trough approaching its path.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 24, 2014

Guideline: Medical marijuana in pill form or oral spray may ease some MS symptoms

The guideline states that certain forms of medical marijuana in pill or oral spray form may help reduce patients' reported spasticity symptoms, pain due to spasticity, and frequent urination. However, long-term safety of medical marijuana use is not known, and potential side effects include seizures, dizziness, and psychological problems.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 24, 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.

Parallel programming may not be so daunting

Researchers find that a wide range of lock-free algorithms offer performance guarantees comparable to wait-free algorithms, even with complex scheduler variations. This discovery simplifies multicore chip programming, as programmers often program under the assumption of benevolent schedulers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 24, 2014

The fundamentals of facial recognition

A recent Harvard University study using prosopagnosia patients found that face recognition is a distinct cognitive process. Patients with face blindness showed poor performance in recognizing faces, contrasting with their ability to recognize other objects of expertise.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

Deletion of FAT10 gene reduces body fat, slows down aging in mice

Researchers at Tufts University have discovered that deleting the FAT10 gene reduces body fat and extends lifespan in mice by 20%, improving insulin sensitivity and protection against type 2 diabetes. The study provides a promising lead for future research into the role of FAT10 in coordinating immunity and metabolism.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

Keep calm and don your video glasses

A study found that video glasses effectively distract patients undergoing minimally invasive treatment procedures, such as biopsies and catheter placements. Patients wearing video glasses showed a significant reduction in anxiety levels, with no adverse effects on blood pressure or pain levels.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 24, 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.

Researchers take mathematical route to fighting viruses

Researchers at the University of York and University of Leeds have developed a mathematical model that explains the molecular mechanisms behind virus assembly. The discovery opens up possibilities for the development of anti-viral therapies and could help treat diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Norovirus, and the Common Cold.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 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.

Ancient Indonesian climate shift linked to glacial cycle

Researchers from Brown University have assembled a 60,000-year record of rainfall in central Indonesia, showing that the region's normally wet climate was interrupted by a severe dry period during peak ice age. This finding provides crucial data for predicting how the region might respond to global warming.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

Would you believe your hand could turn into marble?

Researchers induce a bodily illusion where participants' hands feel stiffer and heavier, showing the brain can quickly update its perception of body material. This study reveals multisensory integration can alter perceived body properties, which may help explain how tools and prostheses integrate into our body schemas.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 24, 2014

Lots of carbon dioxide equivalents from aquatic environments

A study by two students at Linköping University found that aquatic environments in India emit 42% of expected natural carbon dioxide equivalents, highlighting the importance of reducing fossil carbon emissions. Methane accounts for 71% of these emissions, providing a potential pathway to reduction through water pollution mitigation.

SourceLinköping University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 24, 2014

Mice give ticks a free lunch

White-footed mice are 'super hosts' that transfer disease-causing pathogens to feeding ticks, yet appear indifferent to larval tick infestations. Research found that heavy tick burdens did not reduce mouse survival or overwintering success, and may even enhance their chances of survival.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalEcology·DateMar 24, 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.

Oncologists differ widely on offering cancer gene testing, study finds

A study at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found wide variation in oncologists' attitudes towards offering cancer gene testing, with those having high genomic confidence more likely to prescribe the test. The survey revealed that 42% of doctors approved telling patients about uncertain test results, highlighting concerns about delivering ...

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 24, 2014

Research study takes deeper look at the role of gut microbes in the immune system

A new study suggests that gut microorganisms support the production of immune cells, which are essential for fighting infection. The research found that mice lacking gut microbes were more susceptible to bacterial infections, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy balance of gut microbes in our immune system.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 24, 2014

Unfolded proteins collapse when exposed to heat and crowded environments

Researchers have discovered that increased temperature and crowded environments cause unfolded proteins to shrink and lose their complex functions. This discovery has significant implications for understanding various biological processes, including cancer onset.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

When mothers are active so are their children -- but many mothers are not

A new study found that mothers' levels of physical activity are closely related to those of their preschool children. Only 53% of mothers engaged in 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity at least once a week, with the amount of activity a mother and her child did each day being highly correlated.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 24, 2014

New study shows heart abnormalities in fish embryos exposed to Deepwater Horizon oil

A new study has found that exposure to crude oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill can cause serious defects in heart development and function of fish embryos. The research highlights the potential impacts on commercially important pelagic fish populations in the Gulf of Mexico.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

Plugging the hole in Hawking's black hole theory

Physicist Chris Adami has solved the information paradox in Hawking's black hole theory by introducing the concept of stimulated emission. According to Adami, the information swallowed by a black hole is copied and preserved outside the event horizon through stimulated emission.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalClassical and Quantum Gravity·DateMar 24, 2014

Researchers see Kelvin wave on quantum 'tornado' for first time

Physicists have observed Kelvin waves on quantum 'tornadoes' for the first time, confirming a key prediction. The discovery was made using extremely cold liquid helium and provides new insights into turbulence in quantum fluids.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 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.

Leading surgeons warn against media hype about tracheal regeneration

Tracheal bioengineering should be demonstrated as both effective and safe before further transplants. The authors report high mortality and morbidity rates among patients who received bioengineered tracheas, casting doubt on the field's current state.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateMar 24, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for March 25, 2014

The US Preventive Services Task Force found insufficient evidence to recommend routine screening for cognitive decline in older adults. The FDA is reforming its approval process for high-risk medical devices to prioritize patient safety, requiring clinical data and clear labeling.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 24, 2014

Nasal spray delivers new type of depression treatment

Researchers at CAMH have developed a nasal spray that delivers a peptide to treat depression, providing an alternative therapeutic approach. The peptide treatment interferes with dopamine receptors, leading to anti-depressant effects and showing potential in relieving symptoms.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateMar 24, 2014

Scientists find a molecular clue to the complex mystery of auxin signaling in plants

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have identified a key protein in the auxin signaling network that may help understand the entire mechanism. The protein's interaction domain allows it to form chains with other proteins, fine-tuning the response of individual cells to auxin and producing detailed patterns on plant leaves.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

Canadians spend more on private health insurance for smaller payouts

A recent study found that Canadians have paid $6.8 billion more in premiums than they received in benefits from private health insurance since 2011. The gap between what insurers take in and what they pay out has increased threefold over the past two decades.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 24, 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.

Autophagy in the initial stage is unrelated to the composition of beclin 1 complex

Researchers found that the initial stage of autophagy is not directly related to the composition of the Beclin-1 complex. Instead, other mechanisms are likely involved in inducing autophagy. This study highlights the complexity of autophagy regulation and challenges current understanding of its role in neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMar 24, 2014

New technique sheds light on human neural networks

Researchers developed a new technique using spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) to measure human neural networks, showing how neurons grow, organize, and transport materials. The study provides insights into the formation of neural networks and could lead to advancements in understanding diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 24, 2014

p53 cuts off invading cancer cells

Researchers discovered that p53 acts to prevent cancer cell invasion by initiating a chain of events that ultimately prevents the formation of lamellipodia. This process involves the activation of a mitochondrial protease called Omi, which cleaves actin filaments and suppresses the activity of focal adhesion signaling protein p130Cas.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 24, 2014

How developing sperm stick to the right path

Researchers found that developing sperm cells lacking p73 detached prematurely and died, while Sertoli cells lost their characteristic morphology. The study demonstrates the critical role of p73 in regulating cell adhesions for male fertility.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 24, 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.

From mouse ears to man's?

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered that DNA therapy can preserve inner ear nerve cells in humans with certain types of progressive hearing loss. The study uses a protein growth factor to block degeneration and has important implications for enhancing sound perception with cochlear implants.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalHearing Research·DateMar 24, 2014

Recovering valuable substances from wastewater

Researchers have developed a technology to recover phosphorus from wastewater using superparamagnetic particles. The particles trap phosphate anions, which can then be removed using magnets, leaving water clear of pollutants. This innovative method has the potential to protect the environment and provide a sustainable raw material source.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 24, 2014

Protein plays key role in infection by oral pathogen

Research finds that protein TG2 enables bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis to adhere to cells, and blocking its associations prevents bacterial adhesion. The study provides insight into a potential target for preventing gum disease.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014

Statins could ease coughing in lung disease patients, study finds

A daily high dose of statins over six months significantly improved coughing symptoms in 12 out of 30 patients with bronchiectasis. The treatment also reduced inflammation and enabled patients to tolerate gentle exercise better. Larger studies are now needed to confirm these findings.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateMar 24, 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.

First look at breast microbiota raises tantalizing questions

A recent study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology has identified a distinct population of microbes in the breast tissue, with Proteobacteria being the dominant phylum. The presence of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria suggests a potential protective effect for both mother and child.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMar 24, 2014

Biased sex ratios predict more promiscuity, polygamy and divorce in birds

A study by University of Sheffield and University of Bath found that female-biased populations have higher divorce rates, while male-dominated environments lead to increased short-term infidelity. The research also discovered that both sexes become more polygamous when the sex ratio is skewed towards the opposite sex.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 24, 2014

Like being inside a star

Researchers used a highly accurate simulation model to test a hypothesis about the behavior of hydrogen under extreme conditions. The study found that metallization can only occur at pressures approaching 500 gigapascals, a value that is currently beyond experimental capabilities.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2014

New discovery finds missing hormone in birds

A team of researchers from the University of Akron has made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying the missing hormone leptin in birds. Leptin plays a crucial role in regulating body fat storage, metabolism, and appetite, but its presence was unknown in avian species until now.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 24, 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.

Study finds gout drug may reduce risk of death

A recent study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that allopurinol, a commonly used gout medication, is associated with a reduced risk of death in hyperuricemic patients. The study also suggests that treatment with allopurinol may protect against premature death, outweighing rare but serious adverse effects.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateMar 24, 2014

Computer models solve geologic riddle millions of years in the making

A team of scientists used computer modeling to reveal how giant swirls form during plate collision, explaining the origin of curved mountain chains along subduction zones. The model suggests that parts of the subducted slab sweep around behind the collision, pushing continental material into the mountain belt.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateMar 24, 2014

Motor learning: Lining up our sights

Neurologists investigate the significance of the vestibular system in directing gaze, finding that patients with vestibular or cerebellar dysfunction have difficulty controlling eye movements. The study suggests that rehabilitation training based on active head movements can enhance gaze shift control and learning to find endpoints.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalBrain·DateMar 24, 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.

A mathematical equation that explains the behavior of nanofoams

A study by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid reveals that nanofoams follow the same universal laws as soap lather, with small bubbles disappearing in favor of larger ones. The researchers used an atomic force microscope to observe the evolution of nanostructures during ion radiation.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 24, 2014

'RoboClam' replicates a clam's ability to burrow while using little energy

Researchers created a robotic clam called RoboClam that can burrow into undersea soil using little energy. By mimicking the movement of an Atlantic razor clam, RoboClam can liquefy the soil around its shell, reducing drag and allowing it to move quickly and efficiently.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateMar 24, 2014

Research reveals new depths of complexity in nerve cells

Researchers found CaM Kinase II plays a significant role in controlling neuropeptide release from neurons, affecting learning, memory, social behaviors, and mood. The study's findings could lead to future therapies targeting altered mood and memory in humans.

SourceOklahoma Medical Research Foundation·JournalGenetics·DateMar 24, 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.

Leaders are wired to be task-focused or team-builders, but can be both

Research suggests that a leader must be either analytical or empathetic, but not both at the same time. However, recent studies from Case Western Reserve University reveal that this distinction has a foundation in our brains, which allows us to switch between the two modes.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateMar 24, 2014
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.

New implant shows promise for painful osteoporotic spine fractures

A new vertebral augmentation implant showed promise in reducing pain and improving function in patients with compression fractures caused by osteoporosis. The study, involving 300 patients, found the implant to be effective in providing similar pain relief as current treatments and improving quality of life.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 24, 2014

Complex brain functional network connection after stroke

Researchers discovered that stroke patients' brains exhibit more complex functional network connectivity than healthy controls. The study also identified a compensation loop in the brain's functional network following stroke, suggesting its role in rehabilitation.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMar 24, 2014

Hunt for an unidentified electron object

The new framework was used to understand the dynamics of quantized vortices and their interaction with electrons. The researchers discovered a novel mechanism of vortex multiplication, which explains why unidentified electron objects were found only at lower temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2014