Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive March 2014 - Page 28


Page 28 of 34

New center for space environmemt management announced in Australia

The Australian National University-led Cooperative Research Centre for Space Environment Management will track space debris, improve predictions of space debris orbits, and predict potential collisions in space. The center aims to reduce the rate of debris proliferation and remove debris using ground-based lasers.

SourceAustralian National University·DateMar 6, 2014

Robotic prosthesis turns drummer into a 3-armed cyborg

A robotic prosthesis has been developed for an amputee drummer, allowing him to play with unprecedented control and creativity. The device features two drumsticks, one controlled by the musician's arms and the other using electromyography sensors that respond to muscle signals.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 6, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MIT team proposes storing extra rocket fuel in space for future missions

The MIT team proposes using contingency propellant from past missions to fuel future spacecraft, reducing the need for additional fuel storage. By utilizing a 'steady-state' approach and stockpiling fuel at depots in space, lunar missions can carry heavier payloads with less fuel.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·DateMar 6, 2014

Returning vets face 'warring identities' distress

A recent study explores the mental state of returning veterans, finding that many struggle with identity conflict and feel 'alien' among family and friends. The research highlights the need for broader dialogue around veteran experiences beyond diagnosable illnesses like PTSD.

SourceBrown University·JournalSociety and Mental Health·DateMar 6, 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.

Transplanted human umbilical cord blood cells improved heart function in rat model of MI

Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cells transplanted into rats with simulated myocardial infarction improved left ventricular heart function and preserved myocardial fiber structure. The study showed long-term benefits for the treated rats, suggesting a potential therapy for MIs.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateMar 6, 2014

Alzheimer's research team employs stem cells to understand disease processes and study new treatment

A team of researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital has generated stem cells from skin biopsies of living family members with a genetic predisposition to early-onset Alzheimer's. The study found that the APPV7171 mutation alters amyloid-beta protein generation, Tau protein expression, and phosphorylation, providing new insights into ...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 6, 2014

Sudden cardiac death: Genetic disease ARVC more common than hitherto assumed

A recent study reveals that the genetic disease ARVC is more widespread than initially assumed, with all known affected families sharing a common genetic origin. The mutation was first identified in Canada and has since been found in European countries including Germany, Denmark, and the USA, indicating a shared European heritage.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 6, 2014

Astronomers witness mysterious, never-before-seen disintegration of asteroid

Astronomers have witnessed the first-ever breakup of an asteroid into as many as 10 smaller pieces using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The discovery suggests that sunlight may be responsible for this type of disintegration, which is a subtle effect known as YORP torque.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 6, 2014

Listening to whispers at the water cooler

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that pay secrecy weakens employees' perception of a pay increase following performance improvement. High-performing workers are more sensitive to the lack of link between performance and pay, leading to decreased job satisfaction and increased turnover.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMar 6, 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.

Plasma plumes help shield Earth from damaging solar storms

Scientists at MIT and NASA have identified a process in the Earth's magnetosphere that reinforces its shielding effect, keeping incoming solar energy at bay. A plume of low-energy plasma particles slows magnetic reconnection, blunting the sun's effects on Earth.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 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.

Hudds researchers call for major 'de-escalation' survey within the NHS

A lack of evidence on effective de-escalation techniques has been identified by researchers, who are now calling for a randomized controlled trial to establish best methods. The NHS reports a rise in reported assaults, highlighting the need for research to identify the most successful approaches.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour·DateMar 6, 2014

Large-scale study shows power of pre-K

The study found significant positive outcomes for children enrolled in the state's universal pre-k program, with average scores above the national norm on key measures of language, literacy, and math. The results were most pronounced in key language and literacy skills, which are important precursors for later reading ability.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·DateMar 6, 2014

Extraordinary momentum and spin discovered in evanescent light waves

A team of researchers at RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science discovered that evanescent electromagnetic waves carry momentum and spin components orthogonal to the direction of wave propagation. These findings offer a unique opportunity to investigate fundamental physical features, previously hidden in usual propagating light.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 6, 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.

Birds display lateralization bias when selecting flight paths

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that birds exhibit individual lateralization biases when choosing flight paths, enabling flocks to split and avoid crowding. This allows them to navigate complex environments, such as dense bush and forests, with remarkable speed and accuracy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 6, 2014

ALMA sees icy wreckage in nearby solar system

Astronomers using ALMA telescope discover compact region of carbon monoxide gas swirling around young star Beta Pictoris, suggesting total destruction of comet every five minutes. The detection implies a massive swarm of icy bodies, possibly two Mars-size planets colliding within the past million years.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Fertilizer in small doses yields higher returns for less money

Researchers found that smallholder farmers' investment in microdosing led to improved productivity, with a 30-35% increase in adoption rates after training. Microdosing uses fertilizer more efficiently and has unlocked the power of chemical fertilizers in low-rainfall areas.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 6, 2014

Inherited Alzheimer's damage greater decades before symptoms appear

Researchers have found that rapid neuronal damage occurs 10-20 years before symptoms of inherited Alzheimer's disease appear, providing a crucial window for intervention. A clinical trial is underway to test the safety and efficacy of experimental drugs in this population.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 6, 2014
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Waiting for a donor heart: Motion prolongs survival

A new study found that patients with advanced cardiac insufficiency who remain active and have low levels of depression can significantly increase their chances of surviving the waiting period for a donor heart. The researchers recommend psychological counseling to help patients stay physically active and reduce symptoms of depression.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMar 6, 2014

Birds of all feathers and global flu diversity

A global inventory of flu strains in birds has identified over 116 avian flu strains in wild birds, twice the number found in domestic birds. The study also reveals patterns of flu diversity in different bird hosts, with some strains specific to certain species.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 6, 2014

Genetic techniques have role in future of dental care

Researchers at the University of Adelaide are investigating epigenetics as a tool for understanding oral health. They aim to develop personalized treatments by analyzing an individual's epigenetic profile and environment.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAustralian Dental Journal·DateMar 6, 2014

Complications following surgery predict costly readmissions

A study found that patients with post-surgical complications are at high risk of readmission, with rates exceeding 70%. The research suggests that a simple online tool can help identify patients at risk and inform care decisions.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 6, 2014

ANU astronomers to help clean up space junk

A new Cooperative Research Centre will use lasers to track and remove space debris in low orbits around the Earth. The initiative aims to reduce collision risks for satellites, space stations, and spacecraft.

SourceAustralian National University·DateMar 6, 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.

Infants using known verbs to learn new nouns

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that infants can use known verbs to learn new nouns by paying attention to how words are used in sentences. This suggests that word learning occurs naturally and can be facilitated by everyday conversations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCognition·DateMar 6, 2014

Strategies on the Internet to discredit generic drugs

A four-year study of over 3,000 opinions on Spanish web pages found that communication strategies aimed at creating risk perceptions about generic drugs may influence their low usage. Generic drugs have the same composition, quality, and safety as brand-name counterparts, yet their market share in Spain is lower than in Europe.

SourceUNED National Distance Education University·JournalQualitative Social Work·DateMar 6, 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.

Common mutation is culprit in acute leukemia relapse

Researchers found that a common mutation activates the Akt pathway, rendering cells resistant to chemotherapy and increasing growth. Inhibition of this pathway restored leukemic cell responses to front-line therapy.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCancer Cell·DateMar 6, 2014
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Researchers identify a critical link between obesity and diabetes

A study identifies a key role for RBP4 in insulin resistance and inflammation of fat tissue, leading to an increased risk of diabetes. Researchers found that elevated RBP4 levels activate immune cells, triggering chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 6, 2014

Warmer temperatures fuel spread of malaria into higher elevations

New research by HHMI scientists shows that as temperatures rise in tropical regions, malaria can spread to populations at higher elevations previously unaffected. Without increased control measures, climate change will increase the burden of malaria, particularly in densely populated areas at higher elevations.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Researchers calculate how river networks move across a landscape

Researchers at MIT and ETH Zurich develop technique to measure river network change, finding some rivers shifting due to imbalance in drainage divides. The study suggests that regions like the southeastern US are experiencing river network movement due to tectonic activity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

How seeing the same GP helps your health

Research reveals patients who see the same doctor over time are more likely to raise a range of health problems and issues during consultations. This is because the doctor has better knowledge of their medical history and can address more topics within available time frames.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMar 6, 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.

Researchers map European climate change

A new study predicts that most of Europe will experience higher warming than the global average if surface temperatures rise to 2 °C above pre-industrial levels. This could lead to increased evaporation and drought in regions like Spain, Portugal, and France, as well as more frequent extreme precipitation events and flood risks.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 6, 2014

Offshore dispersant data and decisions

Scientists have identified issues with standard toxicity testing data used to inform dispersant decisions, highlighting the need for more accurate and comparable data. The current practices do not adequately replicate field conditions, such as sea state and weather, or consider exposure durations and concentrations.

SourceSociety of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateMar 6, 2014

Physician bias does not affect hypertension treatment for minority patients, says CU

A University of Colorado Boulder study has found that physicians' unconscious biases do not affect high blood pressure treatment for their minority patients. Despite earlier research showing a link between biases and lower patient ratings, the new study found no similar effect on treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 6, 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.

Discovery sheds new light on marijuana's anxiety relief effects

Researchers identify cannabinoid receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala, a key emotional hub involved in regulating anxiety and stress responses. The discovery may help explain why marijuana users take the drug to reduce anxiety.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateMar 6, 2014

NASA's THEMIS discovers new process that protects Earth from space weather

A new study reveals that a pool of dense particles in the magnetosphere can extend out to meet and block incoming solar material, adding an extra layer of protection for spacecraft. This process helps curb magnetic reconnection, allowing energy and solar material to cross the boundary into the magnetosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Preschoolers can outsmart college students at figuring out gizmos

Preschoolers outperformed college students in figuring out cause-and-effect relationships using an unconventional game, thanks to their flexible thinking and ability to consider unlikely possibilities. The study suggests that young children's exploratory learning skills can be leveraged to improve machine learning.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCognition·DateMar 6, 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.

Energy drinks linked to teen health risks

A new report finds energy drink consumption among teenagers may be linked with poor mental health and substance use, with nearly two thirds reporting use in the past year. Younger high school students were more likely to consume energy drinks than older ones, highlighting a trend of concern.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateMar 6, 2014

Contacts better than permanent lenses for babies after cataract surgery

A recent NIH study found that contact lenses are safer and just as effective as permanent lenses for infants under seven months old after cataract surgery. The study showed more post-surgical complications and repeat surgeries in the IOL group compared to the contact lens group.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 6, 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.

Access to social workers could keep veterans out of criminal justice system, MU researchers find

University of Missouri researchers have found that access to social workers can address veteran's needs and prevent entry into the criminal justice system. Social workers play a key role in treating veterans with multifaceted treatment plans tailored to their individual needs, reducing substance abuse and mental health issues.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Forensic Social Work·DateMar 6, 2014