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Science News Archive May 2014 - Page 25


Page 25 of 31

TAG-1 induces apoptosisrelated gene expression without triggering glioma apoptosis

Researchers found that TAG-1 enhances proliferation and induces apoptosis-related gene expression without triggering apoptosis in U251 glioma cells. This study provides novel insight into the mechanisms of glial tumorigenesis by revealing the effects of transient axonal glycoprotein-1 on cell viability and signaling pathways.

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

Athletes' fear of failure likely to lead to 'choke,' study shows

A new study by Coventry University and Staffordshire University found that anxiety about a competitive situation makes athletes more likely to slip-up. The research tested 18 active young adults during identical physical tests, with participants experiencing worse coordination and higher mental anxiety in competitive trials.

SourceCoventry University·DateMay 7, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rising CO2 poses significant threat to human nutrition

A new study led by Harvard School of Public Health finds that elevated CO2 concentrations will significantly reduce zinc and iron concentrations in crops providing a large share of the global population's dietary intake. The reduction poses a major health threat, with an estimated loss of 63 million life years annually from malnutrition.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2014

Airborne measurements confirm leaks from oil and gas operations

Oil and gas operations in Colorado's Front Range leaked nearly three times as much methane, a greenhouse gas, as predicted based on inventory estimates. The new study found seven times as much benzene, a regulated air toxic, and about twice as high emissions of other chemicals that contribute to summertime ozone pollution.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateMay 7, 2014

Pushing the boundaries of stem cells

Researchers at Mount Sinai identified a new technique to expand hematopoietic stem cells in cord blood, making them more useful for adult patients. This study has important implications for patients battling blood cancers and the success of life-saving stem cell transplants.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 7, 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.

Today's offenders are tomorrow's victims in gangs

A new study by Sam Houston State University found that gang members are twice as likely to become both victims and offenders of a crime than non-gang members. The study suggests that gang membership is a common source of both forms of violence, with group processes and norms facilitating trading places between victim and offender.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Research in Crime and Delinquency·DateMay 7, 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.

Ancient crater points to massive meteorite strike

An eight-kilometre-wide crater was formed in southern Alberta, producing a massive explosion that destroyed present-day Calgary, according to researchers. The impact site, dated within the last 70 million years, had devastating consequences for life in the area, with global implications.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateMay 7, 2014

NASA sees system 91B making landfall in southwestern India

System 91B brought heavy rainfall to southern India and Sri Lanka on May 6, with TRMM's Precipitation Radar revealing rates of up to 66 mm per hour. The system has since moved inland over southwestern India, weakening and becoming less organized.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 7, 2014

Mapping the spider genome

Researchers at Aarhus University have sequenced the spider genome, providing a genetic map for future studies. The study reveals genes specific to spiders and sheds light on their incredible abilities, such as making silk and producing venom.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2014

Recent Ebola outbreak highlights need for better global response

The Ebola outbreak in West Africa underscores the importance of real-time data sharing among scientists to improve public health responses. Implementing a regional diagnostic approach can enhance laboratory capabilities, reduce waiting times for test results, and help determine whether established test methods will work or fail.

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

As CO2 levels rise, some crop nutrients will fall

Researchers found that high CO2 levels reduce zinc and iron content in key crops like wheat, rice, and soybeans. Nutrient deficiencies affect at least 2 billion people worldwide, highlighting the need for more research on crop responses to elevated atmospheric CO2.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2014

Repeated preschool wheeze may set the stage for long-term damage in lung function

A new study found that repeated preschool wheezing can lead to long-term damage in lung function by the age of 6 years. Children with recurrent symptoms are particularly at risk, even if asthma symptoms seem to disappear temporarily. The study suggests that early intervention and treatment with inhaled corticosteroids may prevent this ...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Lancet·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.

Shuganjieyu capsule increases neurotrophic factor expression in a rat model of depression

The study found that Shuganjieyu capsule increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor and phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein expression levels, which may be one of the anti-depressant mechanisms. This increase in expression reverses depressive-like behaviors in rat models of depression.

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

Matching the expertise of perfumers to create new scents

Researchers developed a model called Perfumery Radar 2.0 to quantify perfumes' nuances, matching expert descriptions without biases. The tool helps perfumers create new scents by classifying fragrances into families and identifying their characteristics, such as spicy or sweet.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateMay 7, 2014

Blogosphere exerts new consumer influence on food industry

Consumers' curiosity and outrage over food ingredients have fueled online petitions targeting 'pink slime,' synthetic dyes, and brominated oil. The American Chemical Society notes the food industry is taking notice of consumer distrust, shifting towards alternative ingredients.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 7, 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.

Arctic study sheds light on tree-ring divergence problem

Researchers found that changes in light intensity affect tree ring density in the Arctic, resolving the divergence problem. The study suggests regional variations in cloud cover and light availability impact tree growth.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2014

Energy device for flexible electronics packs a lot of power

Scientists have developed a new flexible thin film device that stores enough energy to provide critical back-up power for portable electronics. The device is made from nickel and fluoride, with tiny holes allowing ions to flow easily, and can bend and fold thousands of times with little loss in performance.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 7, 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.

Emerald ash borers were in US long before first detection

Research reveals EABs were feeding on ash trees in southeast Michigan by the early 1990s, well before their discovery in 2002. The study used tree ring analysis to track the spread of the invasive species across over 5,800 square miles.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateMay 7, 2014

Astronomers create first realistic virtual universe

The Illustris simulation recreates the evolution of the universe with unprecedented resolution, including spiral galaxies, elliptical galaxies, and large-scale structures. It also accurately models chemistries of individual galaxies, offering a realistic view of cosmic evolution.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2014

A hydrogel that knows when to go

Researchers created a thermogelling hydrogel that turns from liquid to semisolid at body temperature and then degrades as new bone forms, filling the space left by the original gel.

SourceRice University·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateMay 7, 2014

Berkeley Lab develops nanoscope to probe chemistry on the molecular scale

Researchers developed a broadband imaging technique combining atomic force microscopy and infrared synchrotron light to study complex systems at the nanoscale. The new technique, SINS, enables in-depth investigation of liquid batteries, living cells, and novel materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 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.

Sprites form at plasma irregularities in the lower ionosphere

Sprites form at plasma irregularities in the lower ionosphere, a phenomenon that can be useful for remote sensing of the region. The researchers used high-speed videos and fluid models to study sprite dynamics and determine the origin of the irregularities.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2014

UTMB awarded $4.4 million to develop universal flu vaccine

Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch are working on a universal flu vaccine that could eliminate the need for annual flu shots. With a $4.4 million grant, they plan to test a vaccine containing antigens from A and B strains of influenza, aiming for approval within five years.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·DateMay 7, 2014

How businesses can maximize revenue when introducing new products

A study by researchers at the University at Buffalo found that introducing new products as brand extensions can lead to increased revenue. Sub-branding was also shown to be effective in generating greater revenues for these extensions, such as Gillette Mach3.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalManagement Science·DateMay 7, 2014

Newly found dinosaur is long-nosed cousin of Tyrannosaurus rex

Scientists have discovered a new species of long-snouted tyrannosaur, Qianzhousaurus sinensis, which lived alongside deep-snouted tyrannosaurs but hunted different prey. The discovery confirms the existence of tyrannosaur species with long snouts and provides insights into the diversity of these fearsome carnivores.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2014

Breastfeeding promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut

A new study found that breastfeeding promotes the development of beneficial bacteria in babies' guts, which may help prevent obesity, allergies, and other diseases later in life. The study, led by Professor Kim F. Michaelsen, examined gut microbiota in 330 Danish children over three years.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 7, 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.

Starting signal for antiviral defense

A team of scientists has discovered Rad50's crucial role in detecting and responding to foreign DNA from viruses. The protein interacts with a specific signal protein CARD9, forming a complex that activates the immune system's alarm mechanism, leading to the production of interleukin-1β.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Immunology·DateMay 7, 2014

Third US National Climate Assessment reports our ecosystems are already changing

The US National Climate Assessment reports that nearly all natural and managed ecosystems are experiencing climate change impacts, threatening biodiversity and ecosystem services. The assessment provides guidelines for responding and adapting to these changes, highlighting the urgent need for policy development.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMay 7, 2014

Common drug may help treat effects of muscle disease in boys

Researchers discovered that tadalafil improves blood flow in the muscles of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, allowing for improved exercise performance. The study found that blood flow abnormalities were present even in boys taking corticosteroids, highlighting a potential new therapeutic strategy for treating the disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 7, 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.

Study finds genetic patterns in preeclampsia

Researchers identified distinct genetic underpinnings for different manifestations of preeclampsia, including early vs. late timing and high severity levels. The study found unique sets of genes involved from both mother and fetus, suggesting specific biological contributions to the condition.

SourceBrown University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 7, 2014

Linking vascular inflammation to obesity and atherosclerosis

A study by Changcheng Zhou and colleagues found that IKKβ deficiency in smooth muscle cells decreases vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis, while also blocking fat cell differentiation. This suggests a novel therapeutic target for treating obesity, atherosclerosis, and metabolic disorders.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 6, 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.

Adults at higher risk of suicide attempt if parent abused alcohol, research finds

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that adults with a parent who abused alcohol are 85% more likely to attempt suicide. Having divorced parents also increases the risk of suicide attempts by 14%. However, combining divorce and parental alcohol abuse does not increase suicide risk.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Orthopsychiatry·DateMay 6, 2014

A novel transgenic mouse model of Chinese Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2L

A transgenic mouse model was created with the K141N mutation in HSPB8 to study Chinese Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2L. The mice exhibited decreased muscle strength and impaired motor coordination, but not sensory disturbance. Pathological analysis revealed reduced myelinated fiber density and axonal damage.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMay 6, 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.

Ban cigarette filters to save the environment, suggest researchers

Cigarette butts are a significant source of pollution worldwide, containing toxins and carcinogens found in cigarettes. A proposed policy includes banning filtered cigarettes, implementing a deposit-return scheme for used butts, and holding manufacturers responsible for clean-ups.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalCurrent Environmental Health Reports·DateMay 6, 2014

The first globally complete glacier inventory has been created

The Randolph Glacier Inventory is a globally complete map of glaciers, covering over 730,000 km2 with a total volume of about 170,000 km3. The new inventory provides unprecedented accuracy for studying the impacts of climate change on glaciers worldwide.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalJournal of Glaciology·DateMay 6, 2014
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

As kids age, snacking quality appears to decline

Research found that snacking frequency and diet quality differ by age in schoolchildren, with younger kids benefiting from snacks and teens negatively affected. Nutrient-rich snacks can be a key to improving diet quality in children, especially as they enter adolescence.

SourceBrown University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateMay 6, 2014