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Science News Archive March 2014 - Page 16


Page 16 of 34

Autism Speaks announces 2014 Weatherstone Predoctoral Fellows

The Autism Speaks Weatherstone program supports nine fellows in autism research, including investigating histone methylation patterns and DNA methylation in genetic disorders. The fellows will work with top mentors to advance understanding of the brain biology of autism and develop new treatments.

SourceAutism Speaks·DateMar 18, 2014

An end to animal testing for drug discovery?

Scientists have developed 'chemosynthetic livers' that can mimic human metabolism, allowing researchers to test drug safety and interactions without animal testing. The technology has already demonstrated accurate results with over 50 pharmaceutical compounds.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 18, 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.

Getting rid of bad vibrations

Researchers at Fraunhofer LBF have created a new vibration control table that combines sensors and actuators in an integrated platform. This design allows for better protection against vibrations, particularly at lower frequencies, while maintaining performance and cost-effectiveness.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 18, 2014

The precise reason for the health benefits of dark chocolate: Mystery solved

Researchers found that certain bacteria in the stomach break down dark chocolate's polyphenolic compounds into anti-inflammatory compounds. Combining dark chocolate with prebiotics and solid fruits may enhance health benefits. The study suggests a new approach to improving cardiovascular health through gut microbiome modulation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 18, 2014

New statistical models could lead to better predictions of ocean patterns

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed new statistical models to increase the accuracy of ocean forecasting. The models improved predictability of sea surface temperature extremes, wind fields, and plankton distribution, ultimately benefiting fisheries and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalOceanography·DateMar 18, 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.

Pitt study challenges accepted sepsis treatment

A national randomized clinical trial led by University of Pittsburgh experts found that a structured approach to diagnose and treat sepsis did not change survival rates. The study provides strong evidence that may change the way sepsis is diagnosed and treated, with prompt recognition and treatment being key to effective care.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 18, 2014

Incentives needed to improve grain markets in India

Researchers found that grain farmers in India face regulatory barriers and lack of incentives to invest in on-farm storage, hindering market integration. Small innovations can encourage independent traders to enter the market, benefiting farmers with access to better prices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 18, 2014

Launching a botanical journal on the verge of WWI: the politics of the AJB

The American Journal of Botany celebrates its centennial anniversary, tracing the journal's founding to socio-politics, personalities, and institutions. The journal has remained at the forefront of botanical research, with F.C. Newcombe playing a crucial role in its establishment.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateMar 18, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Lied-to children more likely to cheat and lie

Children who are lied to by an adult are more likely to cheat and lie themselves. The study tested 186 children ages 3 to 7 and found that those who were lied to peeked at a temptation toy nearly as much as those who weren't lied to, and were more likely to lie about it later.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateMar 18, 2014

New understanding of why chromosome errors are high in women's eggs

A new study from the University of Southampton has found that chromosome errors in women's eggs occur due to a faulty gatekeeper mechanism. The researchers discovered that this 'gatekeeper' allows cells to divide with incorrect chromosomes, leading to conditions like Down Syndrome and early pregnancy loss.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 18, 2014

Nanopores control the inner ear's ability to select sounds

Researchers at MIT discovered that tiny pores in the inner ear membrane filter sound frequencies, allowing humans to differentiate between competing sounds. The optimal pore size determines hearing sensitivity, with smaller or larger pores impairing hearing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 18, 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.

Rice study: Simple changes to homework improved student learning

A Rice University and Duke University study found that modifying homework procedures improved exam scores without changing the course curriculum. The study used cognitive science principles, including repeated retrieval practice, spacing, and immediate feedback, to develop inexpensive yet effective educational changes.

SourceRice University·JournalEducational Psychology Review·DateMar 18, 2014

Bees capable of learning feats with tasty prize in sight

Bumblebees demonstrate remarkable learning feats, including solving increasingly complex problems and sharing knowledge through social learning. Experienced bees can solve new problems, while inexperienced ones give up, showcasing scaffold learning.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateMar 18, 2014

JCI online ahead of print table of contents for March 18, 2014

A genetic variant in SCN10A modifies cardiac expression of SCN5A, essential for conduction. An inflammatory feedback loop activates STAT3, repressing miR-34a and promoting EMT in colorectal cancer cells. Insulin resistance in bone disrupts glucose homeostasis through decreased active osteocalcin.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 18, 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.

Owl monkeys don't cheat, Penn study shows

Researchers found that male and female owl monkeys were genetically monogamous, with no cases of extra-pair paternity. The team discovered a strong connection between a species' faithfulness and significant involvement of males in caring for their young.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·DateMar 18, 2014

Humans drive evolution of conch size

Researchers found that 7,000 years ago, fighting conchs had 66% more meat than their descendants, leading to evolutionary change due to human harvesting. The study suggests that long-term size-selective evolution can damage vital traits like reproduction and offspring quality.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·DateMar 18, 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.

Alberta diabetes research receives a big boost

The Alberta Diabetes Institute has launched a new $600,000 partnership to advance early-stage technologies for Type I and II diabetes. The three-year fund will support novel discovery research with high commercialization potential.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateMar 18, 2014

Global food trade can alleviate water scarcity

A study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research found that global food trade can alleviate water scarcity in parts of India, Morocco, and Egypt through imports of agricultural goods. However, exports from countries like Turkey, Spain, Portugal, Afghanistan, and the US exacerbate local water stress.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEcological Economics·DateMar 18, 2014

A 'back to the future' approach to taking action on climate change

Researchers are using a unique approach to climate change vulnerability, involving community stakeholders and scenario-building techniques. The study focuses on two geographic case studies, Big Hole Valley in Montana and Grand County in Colorado, exploring how communities can prepare for future ecological hazards.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 18, 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.

Rocky Mountain wildflower season lengthens by more than a month

A 39-year study reveals that more than two-thirds of alpine flowers have changed their blooming patterns in response to climate change. The blooming season has lengthened by a month, with different species responding in unexpected ways. This change is expected to have strong effects on pollinating insects and migratory birds.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2014

Sorption energy storage and conversion for cooling and heating

Researchers have developed innovative sorbents using metal organic frameworks (MOFs) that can store large amounts of water vapor, offering an energy-efficient cooling method. MOFs are also being used in thermally driven heat pumps and zeolite thermal storage systems to capture waste heat and store it for later use.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 18, 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.

Who wants to be a millionaire?

A recent study by Renato Gianella found that lottery numbers can be analyzed using a colored template based on Pascal's rule, allowing players to identify combinations with the highest probabilities of winning. The method was tested across multiple countries and demonstrated its effectiveness in predicting lottery results.

SourcePublicase International·JournalREVISTA BRASILEIRA DE BIOMETRIA·DateMar 18, 2014

Statins slow the progression of advanced multiple sclerosis in clinical trial

A recent clinical trial has found that statins can slow the progression of advanced multiple sclerosis, a disease that gradually causes patients to become more disabled. The study showed that patients taking simvastatin achieved better scores on movement tests and questionnaires compared to those on a placebo.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 18, 2014

Why international sanctions do not always work

New research suggests that diplomatic pressure and sanctions by the international community can actually support regimes in power, rather than changing their behavior. Countries like Cuba have successfully used stigma and shaming to maintain their sovereignty and resist Western influence. The findings highlight the need for a deeper un...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalInternational Organization·DateMar 18, 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.

NRL models Deepwater Horizon oil spill

The Naval Research Laboratory's (NRL) Deepwater Horizon oil spill model accurately predicted shoreline oil impact, utilizing Coupled Ocean-Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System (COAMPS). By combining satellite images with ocean circulation models, NRL developed BioCast to forecast water clarity and contaminant distribution.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalOcean Modelling·DateMar 18, 2014

New lens design drastically improves kidney stone treatment

Duke University engineers developed a modified lens for shock wave machines, improving lithotripsy efficiency by 89% while reducing tissue damage. The new design uses a groove near the lens's perimeter to optimize pressure distribution and cavitation bubble formation.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 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.

Risk of obesity from regular consumption of fried foods may depend on genetic makeup

A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that regular consumption of fried foods increases the risk of obesity in people with a genetic predisposition to obesity. The study analyzed data from three US cohort studies and found that high intakes of fried food exacerbated the deleterious effects of genetic variants associate...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·DateMar 18, 2014

Child ADHD stimulant medication use leads to BMI rebound in late adolescence

A new study found that children treated with ADHD stimulants experienced slower BMI growth in early childhood, followed by a rapid BMI rebound in late adolescence. Researchers suggest that stimulant use, rather than ADHD diagnosis alone, is associated with higher BMI and obesity.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 18, 2014

Stanford researchers survey protein family that helps the brain form synapses

Researchers identified 450 variants of neurexin proteins, offering new evidence on their role in forming synapses. The study suggests that these protein variants contribute to the diversity of synaptic connections, paving the way for further research into neurological disorders.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 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.

The frozen truth about glaciers, climate change and our future

Researchers use years of data to understand how glaciers changed over time as climate has changed, providing insights into future glacier melting. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding global environmental change and planning protection efforts.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateMar 18, 2014

Penn Medicine researchers show how lost sleep leads to lost neurons

A new study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that extended wakefulness can result in neuronal injury and loss of brain cells, particularly in the locus coeruleus (LC) neurons. Chronic sleep loss may be more serious than previously thought and may even lead to irreversible physical damage.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateMar 18, 2014

Some truth to the 'potent pot myth'

Research from The Netherlands found that high-potency cannabis users still take in more THC than lower potency smokers. Despite attempting to compensate by inhaling less smoke, titration efforts were only partially successful, resulting in roughly half of the THC strength being absorbed.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateMar 18, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

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.

Many low-income women don't want to leave hospital after false-labor diagnosis

A Baylor University study found that 40% of low-income pregnant women discharged after a false labor diagnosis did not want to leave the hospital. The main reasons were pain and distance from their homes. Receiving written instructions about comfort measures at home improved their satisfaction with care. Comfort is a major aspect of sa...

SourceBaylor University·JournalMCN The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing·DateMar 18, 2014

Ancient DNA shows moa were fine until humans arrived

A study analyzing ancient DNA from over 250 radiocarbon-dated moa samples reveals that the iconic New Zealand bird was thriving when humans arrived, contradicting previous theories of population collapse before human arrival. The research suggests human activities contributed to the moa's extinction.

SourceCurtin University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2014

Only one-fifth of people with hearing problems wear a hearing aid

A recent study by the University of Manchester found that only 2.1% of adults with significant hearing problems use a hearing aid. The study revealed that approximately one in 10 middle-aged adults have substantial hearing difficulties, particularly those from working-class or ethnic minority backgrounds.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalEar and Hearing·DateMar 18, 2014
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.