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Science News Archive March 2014 - Page 24


Page 24 of 34
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Empathy chimpanzees offer is key to understanding human engagement

Researchers Matthew Campbell and Frans de Waal found chimpanzees display contagious yawning to familiar and unfamiliar humans, but not to unfamiliar chimpanzees or gelada baboons. This flexibility in empathy may help explain how humans choose to engage with others and offer flexibility.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateMar 11, 2014

Researchers slow pancreatic cancer growth by blocking key enzyme

Researchers from Imperial College London have discovered that blocking Hhat slows pancreatic cancer growth by preventing Hedgehog from stimulating nearby cells. The study found that genetic techniques could prevent the process from starting in the first place, leading to reduced cancer cell growth and ability to spread.

SourcePancreatic Cancer Research Fund·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 11, 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.

Crowdsourced rain samples map Hurricane Sandy's evolution

Researchers used crowdsourcing to collect hurricane rainwater samples during Hurricane Sandy, revealing the storm's chemical signature and improving understanding of extra-tropical hurricanes. The study provides new insights into how these storms interact with weather systems, aiding in hurricane forecasting.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 11, 2014

Soil microbes shift as shrubs invade remnant hill prairies

Researchers found a shift in soil microbial communities as shrubs invaded remnant hill prairies, with woody fungal communities emerging in response to increased shrub density. This change could impact the ability to restore prairies, as shrubs may outcompete grasses and alter ecosystem function.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalMicrobial Ecology·DateMar 11, 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.

AGU journal highlights -- March 11, 2014

Recent AGU publications explore the surface dynamics of Titan's second-largest lake, Ligeia Mare. Researchers found that the lake's surface is flat, suggesting no waves or wind in the region. Additionally, new research on U-shaped glacial valleys suggests a tectonic stress feedback loop played a crucial role in their formation.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 11, 2014

Cancer cells don't take 'drunken' walks through the body

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have discovered that cancer cells do not follow a 'drunken' walk through the body, but rather move in more direct lines. This new understanding could lead to more accurate results for scientists studying how cancer spreads and may lead to more effective treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2014

Imbalanced hearing is more than a mild disability

Researchers at WashU Medicine are studying asymmetric hearing loss, which affects communication difficulties beyond mild disability. They aim to understand brain reorganization and develop new treatments to restore hearing in adults and children with one ear deaf and the other ear partially or fully hearing.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateMar 11, 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.

Obesity associated with lower academic attainment in teenage girls, says new study

A new study by Universities of Strathclyde, Dundee, Georgia and Bristol found that obese teenage girls perform worse academically than their healthy-weight peers. The research examined data from over 6000 children and found a significant association between obesity and lower academic attainment in core subjects.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMar 11, 2014

Exotic plant species alter ecosystem productivity

Researchers found that exotic plant species increase biomass production in ecosystems, regardless of native species presence or climate. Herbivorous small mammals play a key role in resisting invasive plant species, but their exclusion allows for increased productivity.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 11, 2014

Fruit flies help uncover tumor-preventing protein complex

A team of researchers from Duke-NUS Medical School discovered a protein complex that disrupts dedifferentiation, a process promoting tumor development. This breakthrough has implications for understanding neural stem cells and developing future cancer therapies.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·DateMar 11, 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.

Lack of sleep, stress describe a mother's experience after child's ALL treatment

Researchers found that mothers of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) experience significant lifestyle changes, including difficulty sleeping and managing anxiety, even after treatment has ended. Depression symptoms were also common, affecting 26% of mothers.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Pediatric Oncology Nursing·DateMar 11, 2014

Statins may lower blood clot risk following joint replacement surgery

Researchers found that statins significantly reduced VTE events following total hip and knee replacements, with a 48% lower risk compared to non-statin groups. The study, which included over 400 patients, suggests that statins may have anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to their ability to decrease VTE risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 11, 2014

Ocean food web is key in the global carbon cycle

A novel mechanistic model assesses the global ocean carbon export by incorporating the lifecycle of phytoplankton and zooplankton into a food-web-based approach. The researchers found that oceans are a central component in the global carbon cycle, with a mean global carbon export flux of 6 petagrams per year.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateMar 11, 2014

New prognostic test for breast cancer could improve patient treatment

A new clinical test called NPI+ has been developed to improve breast cancer treatment by providing more detailed information about a patient's cancer type and behavior. This will help clinicians create a more personalized treatment plan, leading to improved outcomes and reduced costs.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateMar 11, 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.

Plaques detected in brain scans forecast cognitive impairment

Researchers detected early evidence of Alzheimer's disease using brain scans and found that those with positive scans had a faster rate of decline on memory, language, and reasoning over three years. This biomarker could help clinicians better evaluate and treat patients at risk for cognitive decline.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 11, 2014

Some galaxies in the early universe grew up quickly

A team of astronomers discovered mature galaxies at a record-breaking distance, containing 100 billion stars each. These galaxies formed rapidly over 1 billion years, with star formation rates hundreds of times higher than observed today.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 11, 2014

Gesturing with hands is a powerful tool for children's math learning

Research from University of Chicago finds that gesturing with hands is more effective in teaching math than concrete action. Children who use gestures to solve problems generalize the knowledge better, showing an underlying principle. Gestures help children learn abstract concepts and symbols.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 11, 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.

Scientists 'herd' cells in new approach to tissue engineering

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, used electrical current to direct the movement of epithelial cells, a breakthrough that could lead to controlled forms of tissue engineering. The study demonstrates the potential for 'smart bandages' that use electrical stimulation to aid wound healing.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 11, 2014

Personality may be key risk factor in preventive health care

Conscientious personality traits appear to be a key risk factor for better health, with participants who were more conscientious having lower rates of obesity, high cholesterol, and hypertension. Researchers suggest that incorporating personality assessments into preventive healthcare could lead to more effective care plans.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMar 11, 2014

Community action not enough to reduce problem drinking and related harms

A cluster randomized controlled trial in 20 communities found no significant difference in alcohol-related harms between intervention and control groups, despite reported reductions in self-reported average weekly consumption of alcohol. The study suggests that community action alone may not be sufficient to reduce problem drinking and...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 11, 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.

Time versus money? Placing a value on buyer's remorse

A recent study suggests that consumers who choose more expensive products based on perceived value may experience buyer's remorse in the long run. The researchers observed that participants valued functionality over ease of use and preferred products with more features despite the higher price.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 11, 2014

Getting hyperspectral image data down to a sprint

Researchers unveil SpectralFinder, a software that can record and analyze hyperspectral data in real-time on a mobile platform. The technology differentiates materials based on unique color spectra, enabling applications such as environmental monitoring and quality control.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 11, 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.

New technique uses ATP as trigger for targeted anti-cancer drug delivery

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a new technique using ATP as a trigger for targeted anti-cancer drug delivery. In laboratory tests, it increased the effectiveness of drugs targeting breast cancer, with a 3.6 times higher success rate than non-ATP techniques.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 11, 2014

They're grrrreat! How do brands create loyalty that lasts a lifetime?

A new study found that children's exposure to advertising messages creates long-lasting positive feelings towards brands, making it difficult for them to change their minds. Parents are advised to discuss critical thinking skills with their children when exposed to advertising.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 11, 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.

Researchers closer to improving safety, effectiveness of lithium therapy

A new study by University of South Florida researchers found that lithium salicylate produced steady blood and brain lithium levels for up to 48 hours after oral dose, reducing the risk of toxicity associated with current lithium therapy. This could lead to a less frequent dosing regimen and fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalRSC Advances·DateMar 11, 2014

Research consortium identifies predictors of successful ACL reconstruction

Researchers from Cleveland Clinic and six other institutions present findings on surgical reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligaments. They found that using auto-graft tissue resulted in lower failure rates for high school, college, and competitive athletes. The study aimed to improve ACLR outcomes and highlight changes in practice.

SourceCleveland Clinic·DateMar 11, 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.

NREL examines solar policy pathways for states

The report analyzes state demographics and policy characteristics to contextualize the impact of various solar policies on photovoltaic installations. Four peer groups reveal different policy effectiveness based on demographic factors such as median household income and community interest in renewable energy.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateMar 11, 2014

Lignin breakthroughs serve as GPS for plant research

Lignin breakthroughs provide a new approach integrating biology, chemistry and engineering to understand how plants make products and structures needed for growth and development. The research team developed models that predict how pathway enzymes affect lignin content and composition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 11, 2014

Tracking neighborhood eating habits to promote healthier diets

Researchers used digital checkout data from Montreal neighborhoods to monitor food choices and socioeconomic factors. The study found that lower-income neighborhoods consume more soft drinks, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to encourage healthier diets.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2014

Prescriptions for opioids stabilizing after fivefold increase in 10-year span

Researchers found that opioid prescriptions stabilized after tripling between 1999 and 2008, but the impact of prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) varies significantly by state. Nine states showed significant decreases, while eight experienced increases in MMEs dispensed per capita.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPublic Health Reports·DateMar 11, 2014

Scientists from Penn and CHOP confirm link between missing DNA and birth defects

Researchers from Penn and CHOP confirmed a genetic link between missing DNA on the X chromosome and birth defects such as epilepsy, cleft palate, and respiratory failure. The study provides a mouse model to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism of these conditions and potentially identify genes responsible.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 11, 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.

Long-term warming likely to be significant despite recent slowdown

A new NASA study suggests that Earth's climate will continue to warm during this century, with a possible 20% increase in warming compared to previous estimates. The research focuses on improving the understanding of how airborne particles drive climate change, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 11, 2014

LED lamps: Less energy, more light

LEDs are expected to capture up to 90% of the lighting market by 2020, offering environmental benefits and high efficiency. GaN transistors enable faster switching speeds, leading to reduced energy consumption and increased light output.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 11, 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.

Acoustic cloaking device hides objects from sound

Researchers at Duke University have successfully demonstrated the world's first three-dimensional acoustic cloak, rerouting sound waves to create an illusion of emptiness. The device has potential applications in sonar avoidance and architectural acoustics, altering sound wave trajectory to match a flat surface.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 11, 2014

Power play: Empowered consumers are more likely to switch brands

A study found that consumers who feel powerful are more inclined to switch products or services. Brands can benefit by measuring consumer empowerment and diversifying their product lines. Empowering consumers through marketing campaigns can also lead to increased business.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 11, 2014

California and Arizona amaze with 2 new species of desert poppy

Researchers have identified two new species of desert poppies in California and Arizona, challenging the notion that deserts are devoid of vibrant flowers. The newly described plants belong to the Eschscholzia genus and possess unique characteristics, including vibrant yellow-colored inflorescences.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateMar 11, 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.