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Science News Archive March 2014 - Page 12


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.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateMar 21, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 21, 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.

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.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMar 21, 2014

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.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·DateMar 21, 2014

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.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 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.

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.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateMar 21, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 21, 2014

Researchers at LSTM unlock the secret of multiple insecticide resistance in mosquitoes

Researchers at LSTM have discovered the combination of genetic mutations that enable mosquitoes to develop multiple and extreme-level resistance to insecticides. The study identifies two key genes, CYP6M2 and CYP6P3, which are highly expressed in resistant mosquitoes and can confer resistance across different classes of insecticides.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 21, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMar 21, 2014

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.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 21, 2014

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.

SourceWoodwell Climate Research Center·JournalEcology·DateMar 21, 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.

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...

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 21, 2014

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.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMar 20, 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.

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNanotechnology·DateMar 20, 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.

Medicaid expansion may help prevent kidney failure, improve access to kidney-related care

A new study suggests that Medicaid expansion among low-income nonelderly adults can help prevent kidney failure and improve access to kidney disease care. States with broader Medicaid coverage have lower incidences of kidney failure and smaller insurance-related gaps in access to kidney disease care.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 20, 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.

Researchers discover underlying genetics, marker for stroke, cardiovascular disease

Researchers have discovered a genetic variant linked to an increased risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. The study found that variants in the FOCM pathway, which regulates homocysteine metabolism, are associated with differences in methionine processing, highlighting potential new targets for disease prevention and treatment.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalImmunity·DateMar 20, 2014

$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.

SourceWashington State University·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceCornell University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 20, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceUppsala University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 20, 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.

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.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateMar 20, 2014

Inhibition of CDK4 might promote lymphoma development and progression

A new study found that CDK4 inhibitors may promote the development and progression of certain B-cell lymphomas driven by the MYC oncogene. Inhibiting CDK4 leads to genetic instability and genomic alterations associated with cancer growth.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMar 20, 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.

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.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 20, 2014

(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.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 20, 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.

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMar 20, 2014
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.

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.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 20, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 20, 2014