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Science News Archive May 2014 - Page 24


Page 24 of 31

Beetles that taste like mustard

Flea beetles sequester glucosinolates without triggering the plant's defense mechanism. They utilize the compounds for their own communication and defense against predators.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2014

Fueling aviation with hardwoods

A multi-university team has developed a technology to transform lignocellulosic biomass into a jet fuel surrogate via catalytic chemistry. The proposed approach could potentially produce aviation fuels at a cost of $2.88 per gallon, making it a promising alternative to traditional petroleum-derived fuels.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMay 8, 2014

'Rice theory' explains north-south China cultural differences, study shows

A new study reveals distinct northern and southern Chinese psychological cultures, with southern China's history of rice farming contributing to its interdependent nature. The 'rice theory' proposes that centuries of cooperative rice farming have led to a more collectivist culture in southern regions.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 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.

NASA sees system 91B lingering over southwestern India

System 91B, a tropical low pressure area, has been lingering over southwestern India since May 8. The storm's eastern quadrant remains over the region, while its western quadrant extends into the Northern Indian Ocean. Maximum sustained winds are estimated at 10-15 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 8, 2014

Monitor for sunburn risk goes on sale

A sunburn risk monitor, Smartsun, is now available for purchase online. The device, worn as a waterproof wristband, changes color in response to UV radiation levels, warning users of potential skin damage.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·DateMay 8, 2014

NASA sees system 90E moving toward southwestern Mexico

System 90E is a tropical low-pressure area located southwest of Zihuatenejo, Mexico, heading towards landfall in the region. The National Hurricane Center has given it a 20% chance of becoming a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 8, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Long-term childhood poverty contributes to young adult obesity rates

A new study from the University of Houston finds that childhood poverty contributes to higher obesity rates among young adult women, with repeated exposure during childhood increasing their risk. The study also highlights the importance of helping families escape poverty in improving their long-term health status.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMay 8, 2014

Better cognition seen with gene variant carried by 1 in 5

A gene variant linked to longevity may also improve learning and memory, according to a new study. Researchers found that individuals carrying the KL-VS variant of the KLOTHO gene performed better on cognitive tests.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 8, 2014

Mummy-making wasps discovered in Ecuador

Twenty-four new species of Aleiodes wasps were discovered in the cloud forests of Ecuador, mummifying caterpillars in an unusual way. These small organisms have a significant impact on forest ecology by controlling plant-feeding caterpillar populations, helping to sustain biodiversity.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateMay 8, 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.

Chemotherapy timing is key to success

Researchers develop nanoparticles that release two chemotherapy drugs, erlotinib and doxorubicin, at staggered times to weaken tumor cells' defenses before delivering DNA-damage. This approach dramatically shrinks lung and breast tumors in mice, including aggressive triple-negative breast cancer cells.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 8, 2014

Researching an endangered relationship

New Jersey Institute of Technology researchers are investigating how climate change may disrupt the vital relationship between bees and plants, which could lead to poor crop pollination and lower yields. The study, supported by a $150,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, aims to understand how temperature changes may affect ...

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateMay 8, 2014

Exploring the magnetism of a single atom

The team developed a method to measure the energy needed to change magnetic anisotropy in a single Cobalt atom, revealing its maximum magnetic anisotropy energy and longest spin lifetime. This breakthrough presents a single-atom model system that can be used as a future qubit for quantum computing.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 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.

Improving air quality in NYC would boost children's future earnings

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that reducing air pollution in NYC would increase children's IQs, leading to improved academic performance and future earnings. The estimated economic gain for each child could be as high as $215 million.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Policy·DateMay 8, 2014

This FIB doesn't lie: New NIST microscope sees what others can't

Researchers at NIST have created a new type of FIB microscope that can image nonconductive materials and analyze chemical composition. The instrument uses lithium ions to produce lower-energy beams than traditional SEMs, enabling greater detail in nanostructure imaging.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalUltramicroscopy·DateMay 8, 2014

Recycling a patient's lost blood during surgery better than using banked blood

A study at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that recycling a patient's lost blood during heart surgery results in healthier blood cells able to carry oxygen more effectively. Patients who received only their own recycled red blood cells had normal cell behavior, while those who received banked blood showed reduced flexibility and function.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnesthesia & Analgesia·DateMay 8, 2014

GaitTrack app makes cellphone a medical monitor for heart and lung patients

Researchers developed GaitTrack app that uses eight motion parameters to analyze a person's walking pattern, providing valuable insights into cardiopulmonary, muscular, and neurological health. The app has shown promising results in monitoring chronic lung disease patients, predicting lung function with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateMay 8, 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.

Eating more fruits, vegetables may cut stroke risk worldwide

A meta-analysis of 20 studies found that eating more fruits and vegetables can lower stroke risk, with a 32% decrease for every 200g of fruit consumed daily and an 11% decrease for every 200g of vegetables consumed daily. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is highly recommended to meet micronutrient and macronutrient requirements.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 8, 2014

rAAV/ABAD-DP-6His attenuates oxidative stress induced injury of PC12 cells

The study found that rAAV/ABAD-DP-6His increases superoxide dismutase activity and decreases malondialdehyde content, reducing oxidative stress-induced injury in PC12 cells. The treatment also maintains mitochondrial membrane potential and reduces apoptosis, indicating its neuroprotective effects.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMay 7, 2014

NASA watching year's first tropical low headed for southwestern Mexico

A tropical low pressure area is developing in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, with a 50% chance of becoming a tropical depression within two days. The system is expected to move northeastward towards the southwestern coast of Mexico, bringing heavy rainfall and potentially strong thunderstorms.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 7, 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.

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.

Statistical test increases power of genetic studies of complex disease

A new framework increases the ability to detect genetic associations and interactions by utilizing data from existing genomic studies. The approach improves performance over standard methods and identifies promising candidates for genetic interactions affecting various diseases.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateMay 7, 2014

A lab in your pocket

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed software to design lab-on-a-chip hardware, enabling the simultaneous testing of dozens of medical conditions with a single drop of blood. The technology could revolutionize medical diagnostics by providing fast and accurate results miles from the nearest clinic.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalIEEE Transactions on NanoBioscience·DateMay 7, 2014

Malaria severity not determined solely by parasite levels in blood

A recent NIH-funded study tracked Tanzanian children's risk of severe malaria over time, finding no simple relationship between parasite density and disease severity. The research suggests that even mild episodes of malaria may pose a significant risk of severe illness, contrary to previous mathematical models.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 7, 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.

New order of marine creatures discovered among sea anemones

Researchers have identified a new order of marine creatures among sea anemones, revealing a giant species that is actually an imposter. The study, published in PLOS ONE, presents the first tree of life for sea anemones and reshapes scientists' understanding of these poorly understood animals.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2014

Early depression, anger may taint love life even 20 years later, study shows

A University of Alberta study found that negative emotions experienced as young adults can persistently affect couple relationships well into middle age. Recognizing the importance of early mental health is crucial to future happiness and may help prevent social costs like divorce and domestic violence.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateMay 7, 2014

Greenland melting due equally to global warming, natural variations

Researchers at University of Washington estimate up to half of recent Greenland warming is caused by tropical Pacific climate variations rather than global warming. This finding highlights the complexity of regional climate changes and the need for more accurate long-range projections.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 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.

Kaiser Permanente study finds radiation best treatment for a rare skin cancer

A Kaiser Permanente study found that radiation treatment significantly reduced the risk of Merkel cell carcinoma recurrence, with no impact on survival rates. The study's results also showed associations between immunosuppression and advanced tumors, as well as lymph node evaluation, and worse survival outcomes.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateMay 7, 2014

New study sheds light on survivors of the Black Death

A new study by University of South Carolina anthropologist Sharon DeWitte provides insights into how the plague shaped population demographics and health for generations. The findings suggest that survivors of the Black Death experienced improvements in health and longevity, with many people living to ages of 70 or 80 years.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2014

NASA telescopes coordinate best-ever flare observations

A record-breaking X-class flare was observed by four NASA spacecraft and one ground-based observatory on March 29, 2014. The coordinated efforts provided the most comprehensive data set ever collected, shedding light on the origins of solar eruptions and their effects on space weather near Earth.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 7, 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.

New care approach eases depression among women

Women who received collaborative care for depression at an obstetrics and gynecology clinic showed significant reduction in symptoms, with more than half experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder as well. The approach, called Depression Attention for Women Now, improved patient engagement, treatment recommendations, and follow-up care.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 7, 2014

A new tool to measure the speed of aging

A new study published in PLOS ONE finds that hand-grip strength is a reliable indicator of aging, corresponding to future mortality, disability, and cognitive decline. The researchers analyzed data from over 50 studies worldwide, revealing significant differences in aging rates among various population groups.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2014

Clues about black hole formation

Researchers have detected circularly polarized light from a recently formed black hole, confirming a theoretical model. The discovery was made using the VLT telescope and is considered an extraordinary event due to its high degree of polarization.

SourceUniversidad del País Vasco·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 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.

Study urges caution in stem cell clinical trials for heart attack patients

A new study challenges the use of stem cells in heart attack patients, finding that they do not regenerate damaged heart tissue at high enough rates. The study suggests that any potential benefit from injecting c-kit-positive cells into the hearts of patients may come from improving circulation rather than generating new cardiomyocytes.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 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.

Argentina yields 3 new tarantula species

Three new species of tarantulas were discovered in northern Argentina, shedding light on the region's unique arachnid diversity. The newly identified species belong to the subfamily Theraphosinae and are named after local locations and cultural figures.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateMay 7, 2014

Brain noise found to nurture synapses

A study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers found that miniature neurotransmission regulates synapse development and contributes to the growth of synapses. The findings suggest that abnormalities in this process may contribute to neurodevelopmental diseases.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateMay 7, 2014

Vascular simulation research reveals new mechanism that switches in disease

Researchers have made an unexpected discovery about endothelial cell behavior during angiogenesis, revealing a continuum of migratory states regulated by differential cell-cell adhesions. This new mechanism may contribute to disease progression, including cancer, where blood vessel formation is critical for tumor growth.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 7, 2014

Community doulas can be a big help for mother-baby relationships

Research at the University of Chicago found that community doulas significantly improved breastfeeding rates and infant development in young mothers from low-income African American families. The study showed that doulas who were similar to the mothers they supported had a more positive impact on their relationships with their babies.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMay 7, 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.

Nanoscale heat flow predictions

Researchers developed a predictive theoretical model for heat flux in novel nanomaterials using atom-scale calculations. This could help optimize thermal budget of nanoelectronic devices and produce energy through thermoelectric effects.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMay 7, 2014

Neural states affect learning

A study found that theta-band activity in the hippocampus is crucial for learning, with training in its absence facilitating learning. Uniform neural states also act as a context for learning.

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateMay 7, 2014