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Science News Archive November 2014 - Page 20


Page 20 of 31

NYU professor wins premier award in the data visualization field

Claudio Silva, a NYU professor, won the IEEE Visualization Technical Achievement Award for his seminal contributions to data visualization and analysis. His work on VisTrails, an open-source data-exploration system, has significantly influenced researchers across various domains.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateNov 12, 2014

Oral cancer-causing HPV may spread through oral and genital routes

A McGill University study found that men who had female partners with oral and/or genital HPV infections were more likely to have oral HPV themselves. The prevalence of oral HPV was higher among male smokers, non-monogamous individuals, and those with a partner having oral or genital HPV infection.

SourceMcGill University·DateNov 12, 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.

Semen directly impairs effectiveness of microbicides that target HIV

A new study reveals that microbicides targeting HIV are less effective when exposed to semen due to its amyloid fibrils, which enhance the virus's infectiousness. Researchers suggest creating a compound targeting both the virus and these protein aggregates to improve drug efficacy.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 12, 2014

Mothers nurture emotions in girls over boys, new study finds

A new study found that mothers tend to use more emotional words and content when conversing with their daughters than sons. This may lead to girls growing up more attuned to their emotions, having an edge in expressing themselves and coping with emotions.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalBritish Journal of Developmental Psychology·DateNov 12, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Jackson Laboratory researchers discover lung regeneration mechanism

Researchers have identified a type of adult lung stem cell that contributes to lung regeneration after damage. The study found that these cells, known as p63+/Krt5+, proliferate upon injury and form new alveoli near sites of inflammation, highlighting their potential for therapeutic strategies.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalNature·DateNov 12, 2014

Artificial retina could someday help restore vision

Researchers developed a wireless, light-sensitive film that can stimulate neurons and potentially treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The new device outperforms existing technologies in terms of durability, flexibility, and efficiency.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateNov 12, 2014

Insights into plant growth could curb need for fertilizers

Researchers found that nitric oxide signals plants to limit nitrogen uptake, allowing for optimal growth without excess pollution. This discovery could inform crop breeding and fertilizer use, resulting in more sustainable agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 12, 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.

Understanding natural compounds

Researchers develop computer-based method to predict mechanism of action of natural substances, identifying potential target structures for 210,000 compounds. The software breaks down molecules into smaller fragments, discovering essential parts for the mechanism of action, which can be used to design less complex and easier-to-synthes...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 12, 2014

Errors in single gene may protect against heart disease

Researchers found that people with one inactive copy of the NPC1L1 gene had lower LDL cholesterol levels and a 50% reduced risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that targeting this gene may provide protection against heart attack, but further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 12, 2014

Atomic timekeeping, on the go

Researchers at MIT and Draper Laboratory have developed a new atomic timekeeping approach that could enable more stable and accurate portable atomic clocks. The system suppresses the AC Stark shift effect, allowing for smaller, less expensive devices with improved accuracy compared to current fountain clocks.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review A·DateNov 12, 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.

Controversial medication has benefits for breastfeeding

Domperidone has been found to increase milk supply in breastfeeding women with no reported significant adverse effects. Its use is associated with modest improvements in breast milk volume, supporting long-term health benefits for both mothers and babies.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Human Lactation·DateNov 11, 2014

Genes identify transplant rejection

A new study published in PLOS Medicine has developed a 17-gene set to analyze peripheral blood samples and determine which patients are at risk of acute rejection after kidney transplantation. The test, called kSORT, was found to be highly accurate and clinically applicable, with an area under the curve of 0.93.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 11, 2014

Majority of people -- including health professionals -- struggle to identify obesity

Research found that most participants underestimated weight and incorrectly identified body shapes, even among healthcare professionals. The study's findings have important implications for weight management support and advice, as many individuals may not be receiving the help they need due to inaccurate assessments.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateNov 11, 2014

Space: The final frontier in silicon chemistry

Scientists from the University of Tokyo have detected silicon and nitrogen-terminated carbon chain molecules in interstellar space using laboratory experiments. The discovery provides valuable information on the formation mechanisms of these molecules and their potential impact on understanding the chemical composition of the universe.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateNov 11, 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.

Penn Vet team pieces together signaling pathway leading to obesity

A team of researchers has drawn connections between known regulators of body mass, pointing to possible treatments for obesity and metabolic disorders. They also found intriguing clues that these same molecular pathways may play a role in learning and perhaps even in some forms of brain cancer.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 11, 2014

'Eyespots' in butterflies shown to distract predatory attack

Research shows butterfly eyespots are used to deflect predator attacks, with large and bright eyespots in the wet season making a colorful target for attack. In the dry season, smaller and duller eyespots make the butterfly more difficult to detect and consume.

SourceOregon State University·DateNov 11, 2014

Bizarre mapping error puts newly discovered species in jeopardy

A new plant species, Dorstenia luamensis, is threatened by cattle ranches and forest destruction following a 50-kilometer mapping error. The reserve's borders were incorrectly placed on maps, putting the unique plant and its biodiversity, including chimpanzees, at risk.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPhytoKeys·DateNov 11, 2014

Supercomputing beyond genealogy reveals surprising European ancestors

Researchers used supercomputing simulations to analyze ancient DNA from a 24,000-year-old Siberian boy, revealing that modern Europeans are a mixture of three distinct ancestral populations. The study challenges the prevailing view that only two groups mixed in Europe between 7,000 and 8,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalNature·DateNov 11, 2014

MU researchers offer first analysis of new human glucose disorder

MU researchers have catalogued the effects of abnormal enzymes responsible for one type of glycogen storage disease in humans. Their study, published in The Journal of Biological Chemistry, provides promising early-stage results that could aid in patient prognosis and therapeutic development.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 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.

Typhoid gene unravelled

A new study has identified a human gene that provides natural resistance to typhoid fever. The HLA-DRB1 gene codes for a receptor important in the immune response against invading bacteria. This finding holds promise for developing improved vaccines and treatments for typhoid fever.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 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.

New therapy for trauma survivors

A new transdiagnostic psychotherapy approach, CETA, has been found to be effective in reducing depression and posttraumatic stress symptoms among Burmese trauma survivors living in Thailand. The treatment resulted in a significant reduction of symptoms over an average of 3 months.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 11, 2014

Study shows vaccination leads to decline in pneumococcal disease and antibiotic resistance

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows a significant decline in invasive pneumococcal disease cases caused by bacteria resistant to one or more antibiotics. The introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) in South Africa has led to substantial reductions in antibiotic-resistant invasive pneumococ...

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 11, 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.

Novel molecular imaging drug offers better detection of prostate cancer

A new study shows a novel molecular imaging drug is effective in detecting early prostate cancer in soft tissue, lymph nodes, and bone. The drug, Tc-99m MIP-1404, has favorable pharmacokinetics and biodistribution, representing a breakthrough in prostate cancer imaging.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateNov 11, 2014

Twisted light waves sent across Vienna

Researchers sent twisted light beams across Vienna, encoding images and demonstrating increased data-carrying capacity. The technology could significantly increase data-rates in classical communication and make secret keys tougher to crack in quantum communication.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 11, 2014

Anti-organic: Why do some farmers resist profitable change?

A study in the Journal of Marketing found that chemical farmers resist converting to organic methods because it challenges their belief systems. Organic farmers, on the other hand, report a sense of joy and renewal through their practice.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 11, 2014

Study identifying cell of origin for large, disfiguring nerve tumors lays groundwork for development

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified the specific type of cell that gives rise to large, disfiguring plexiform neurofibromas, a finding that could lead to new therapies for preventing tumor growth. The study suggests ways to develop treatments by understanding the steps leading to tumor development.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 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.

The Trojan Horse burger: Do companies that 'do good' sell unhealthy food?

A new study suggests that companies with strong social responsibility reputations can inadvertently create a 'health halo' around their products, leading to overconsumption and underestimation of calories. This phenomenon can have serious health consequences for individuals and society.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateNov 11, 2014

Eye diseases identified by how we watch TV

A new study from City University London found that eye movement analysis can detect diseases like glaucoma while watching TV. This method could help clinicians identify the disease earlier, enabling timely treatment before permanent damage occurs.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateNov 11, 2014

Infectious diseases researcher wins $1.225 million fellowship

Dr Marc Pellegrini has been awarded a $1.225 million fellowship to focus on progressing his research into chronic infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and tuberculosis. The grant will enable him to explore how microbes evade the immune system and apply these discoveries to eradicate these diseases.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateNov 11, 2014

Controlling genes with your thoughts

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel gene regulation method that enables thought-specific brainwaves to control the conversion of genes into proteins. The system uses EEG headsets to transmit brainwaves wirelessly to an implant, which regulates gene expression through light-sensitive optogenetic modules.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 11, 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.

Creating bright X-ray pulses in the laser lab

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new laser system to create high-flux X-ray pulses, which will allow for more accurate measurements in various scientific fields. The new technology uses mid-infrared light and can produce up to 25 times higher X-ray flux than previous experiments.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 11, 2014

Altered milk protein can deliver AIDS drug to infants

A novel method of altering a protein in milk has been discovered, enabling the delivery of an antiretroviral drug to infants with HIV/AIDS. This breakthrough could greatly improve treatment for the estimated 3.4 million children suffering from the disease.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Research·DateNov 11, 2014

Multiple models reveal new genetic links in autism

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine implicated a new gene in non-syndromic autism, suggesting similar molecular pathways among different types of autism. The study used mouse models, induced pluripotent stem cells and the 'Tooth Fairy' project to identify TRPC6 as a novel predisposing gene for ASD.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 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.

Why 'I'm so happy I could cry' makes sense

Yale psychologist Oriana Aragon's study reveals that people cry when they're happy to restore emotional balance. Individuals who express negative reactions to positive news can better moderate intense emotions.

SourceYale University·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 11, 2014

Good cause + moderate discount = more sales

A new study by American Marketing Association found that customers are more likely to buy when they can donate to good causes, with moderate discounts also driving sales. The study suggests that offering charity options alongside products can significantly increase purchases.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 11, 2014

Tail discovered on long-known asteroid

Researchers have discovered an unexpected tail on asteroid 62412, which was previously known as a typical asteroid. The discovery reveals that there may be up to 100 active asteroids in the main asteroid belt, shedding light on the processes that cause some asteroids to become active.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·DateNov 11, 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.

A heavier price: How do restaurant surcharges and labeling improve health?

A new study found that restaurant surcharges and labeling can reduce demand for unhealthy menu items. The study showed that customers are more likely to avoid unhealthy food with a label and a surcharge than without either. This combination is called an 'unhealthy surcharge' and may lead to increased customer trust and loyalty

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateNov 11, 2014

Tree diseases can help forests

A University of Utah study found that pathogens killing tree seedlings in drier forests allow more diverse tree species to thrive in the wetter Caribbean environment. This separation is crucial for conservation planning and understanding how tree species adapt to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateNov 11, 2014

Study finds traditional healers contribute to HIV care delays

A recent survey of symptomatic HIV-positive people in rural Mozambique found that those who initially consulted traditional healers had a 2.4 times longer delay between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis of HIV. The study highlights the need to engage traditional healers in HIV care and provide incentives for referrals.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateNov 11, 2014

Autophagy and antidepressants

Researchers found that FKBP51 regulates acute and chronic effects of antidepressants via autophagic pathways in mice and humans. Autophagy markers correlate with antidepressant treatment response in patients with depression.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 11, 2014

Bending -- but not breaking -- in search of new materials

Researchers create a new material that can store charge and support weight, with potential applications in wearable technology, water filtration, and radiofrequency shielding. The material's flexibility and strength make it suitable for various uses, including improving electrical energy storage.

SourceDrexel University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 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.