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Science News Archive October 2014 - Page 2


Page 2 of 35

One hormone, 2 roles: Sugars differentiate seasonality and metabolism

Researchers at ITbM and the University of Chicago uncover the mechanism behind thyrotropin's two distinct functions, triggered by seasonal changes and metabolism. Tissue-specific glycosylation differentiates the hormone's activities without cross-interference.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 30, 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.

Making lab-grown tissues stronger

Researchers at UC Davis have developed a method to toughen up engineered cartilage and keep natural tissues strong outside the body. By depriving native or engineered cartilage of oxygen and using an enzyme called lysyl oxidase, they found that cross-linking occurs, making the material stronger.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Doubt cast over air pollution link between childhood leukemia and power lines

A new study published in Journal of Radiological Protection found little evidence to support the 'corona-ion hypothesis', which suggests a possible link between air pollution from power lines and childhood leukemia. Researchers used data from over 7,000 children born near high-voltage overhead power lines and found no increased risk of...

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Radiological Protection·DateOct 30, 2014

Biology meets geometry

Researchers describe the Terasaki ramps in the endoplasmic reticulum as spiral structures that connect parallel sheets, allowing for high density of ribosomes. This geometry is stable and minimizes energy, consistent with the laminar structure of the stacks.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 30, 2014

Female frogs modify offspring development depending on reproduction date

A recent study by Germán Orizaola and colleagues found that female frogs can influence the growth rate and development of their offspring in response to changes in reproduction dates. By delaying breeding, females can accelerate larval growth, potentially helping species adapt to environmental uncertainty.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEcology·DateOct 30, 2014

Independent safety investigation needed in the NHS

A new agency would investigate major failures and provide public explanation, improving system-wide learning. The NHS lacks a consistent approach to investigating safety issues, relying on costly one-off inquiries.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateOct 30, 2014

Unlocking the secrets of pulmonary hypertension

A UAlberta team discovered a protein linked to metabolic regulation is critical in pulmonary hypertension development. Lower levels of Sirtuin3 have been found in patients with the disease, and gene therapy approaches show promise for improving symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 30, 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.

Could daylight saving time be a risk to diabetics?

Diabetic patients using insulin pumps are at risk of dosing errors if they forget to change the clock on their devices. This can lead to severe consequences, including hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Researchers call for increased awareness and education to ensure proper pump settings.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Diabetes Science and Technology·DateOct 30, 2014

Active, biodegradable packaging for oily products

The BIOMAT group has created a transparent, biodegradable container for oily products with enhanced barrier properties and natural antioxidant agents. This innovation aims to prolong the shelf life of packaged food while reducing environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateOct 30, 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.

Nearly $1 million NSF grant will support UT Arlington doctoral students

The University of Texas at Arlington has received a $974,250 NSF grant to support doctoral students from underrepresented minority groups. The Bridge to the Doctorate Fellowships will provide full tuition, a $30,000 yearly stipend, and additional resources to help students succeed in STEM fields.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 30, 2014

Patents for humanity: Special edition of Technology and Innovation

The Patents for Humanity Awards recognize innovators developing life-changing technologies, such as a malaria-resistant drug, an electric-free fracture treatment, and solar-powered light bulbs. The awards aim to bring modern technology to the world's most underserved populations.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateOct 30, 2014

What do American babies eat? A lot depends on Mom's socioeconomic background

Researchers at the University at Buffalo found that infant dietary patterns are influenced by mothers' socioeconomic backgrounds and racial identities. Babies whose diet included more breastfeeding and solid foods adhering to international guidelines were associated with higher household income and mothers with higher education levels.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 30, 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.

Model by NIH grantees explains why HIV prevention dosing differs by sex

A mathematical model developed by NIH grantees predicts that women need to take Truvada daily to prevent HIV infection via vaginal sex, while men can protect themselves with just two doses per week. The model helps explain why previous PrEP trials in women were unsuccessful due to poor adherence.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateOct 30, 2014

Genetic factors behind surviving or dying from Ebola shown in mouse study

A new mouse model reveals that genetic factors play a significant role in the severity of Ebola disease. Research suggests that certain genetic lines of mice are more resistant to the virus, while others are highly susceptible to severe illness and death. The findings could lead to rapid development of candidate therapeutics and vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2014

Four new dragon millipedes found in China

A team of speleobiologists has described four new species of dragon millipedes from southern China, highlighting their distinctive spiky bodies. The discovery sheds light on the genetic diversity of these bizarre creatures, with China holding the highest recorded number of species in the genus Desmoxytes.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateOct 30, 2014

Clock gene dysregulation may explain overactive bladder

Scientists discovered a link between the body's circadian clock and bladder function, finding that disruptions to the daily cycle can cause overactive bladder. The study suggests that altering peripheral clock genes through receptor activators can regulate bladder contractions.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 30, 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.

Novel tinnitus therapy helps patients cope with phantom noise

A new therapy combining computer-based cognitive training and d-cycloserine has shown promise in helping patients with tinnitus better cope with the condition. The study found that patients who received the treatment experienced greater improvements in daily life compared to those who took a placebo.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateOct 30, 2014

Air quality and unconventional oil and gas sites

A community-based study found air pollutants released by unconventional oil and gas production exceed recommended levels in the US, with hazardous chemicals like benzene, hydrogen sulfide, and formaldehyde detected. The study highlights the need for improved air-quality monitoring programs near these sites.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateOct 30, 2014

What's mighty about the mouse? For starters, its massive Y chromosome

The mouse Y chromosome is a surprisingly large and complex biological entity, with two categories of genes: ancestral and acquired. The mouse Y retains only 9 of its 639 ancestral genes, but has acquired and amplified over 700 new genes through intrachromosomal recombination and sex-linked meiotic drive.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateOct 30, 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.

Ion adsorption matter in biology

A new systematic study of lipid membrane-electrolyte interactions provides insights into biological cell function and potential applications in medical diagnostics. The research uses liposomes to model biological membranes and demonstrates the role of ion adsorption in modulating membrane electrical characteristics.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateOct 30, 2014

Seeing dinosaur feathers in a new light

Dinosaurs had highly developed color vision, including the ability to see ultraviolet light, which likely contributed to the evolution of feathers. This discovery sheds new light on the origin of feathers and their role in dinosaur communication and mating.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2014

Researchers find bat influenza viruses unlikely threaten human health

A study by Kansas State University researchers suggests that bat influenza viruses are unlikely to pose a pandemic threat to humans. The team characterized the viruses using synthetic technology and next-generation sequencing, finding they have a low risk of transmission.

SourceKansas State University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 30, 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.

Mediterranean diet may help protect kidney health

A Mediterranean-style diet is associated with a 17% decreased likelihood of developing chronic kidney disease, while dietary patterns resembling the diet reduce risk by 50%. More than 20 million US adults have chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 30, 2014

High-intensity sound waves may aid regenerative medicine

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a way to use high-intensity sound waves to create cellular scaffolding, a unique approach that could help overcome one of regenerative medicine's significant obstacles. The technique involves using boiling histotripsy to decellularize tissues, leaving behind a fibrous network t...

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateOct 30, 2014

Why scratching makes you itch more

Research from scientists at Washington University School of Medicine found that scratching causes the brain to release serotonin, which intensifies itch sensation. Blocking serotonin's communication with nerve cells may help break the itch-scratch cycle.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateOct 30, 2014

Together we are strong -- or insufferable

Researchers found that individuals can control cooperative behavior in large groups by acting generously or punishing egoistic behavior. However, the effectiveness of these strategies decreases with an increasing number of players.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2014

Magma pancakes beneath Lake Toba

Researchers found a horizontally layered magma reservoir beneath the Toba caldera, composed of numerous intrusions with molten material. This discovery sheds light on the accumulation and eruption mechanisms of super-volcanoes, which occur every few hundred thousand years.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 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.

Frailty increases kidney transplant recipients' risk of dying prematurely

A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that frailty significantly increases the risk of premature death in kidney transplant recipients. The study analyzed data from 537 patients and found that those who were classified as frail had a mortality rate twice that of non-frail patients.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateOct 30, 2014

Screening patients at high-risk for lung cancer more likely when prmary care provider is familiar with guidelines

Research shows that primary care providers who know guideline recommendations for low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening are more likely to order LDCT for high-risk individuals. This knowledge gap is highlighted by a survey of over 200 primary care providers, which found that 48% knew three or more guideline components.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateOct 30, 2014

Eiman Azim wins 2014 Eppendorf & Science Prize

Eiman Azim won the 2014 Eppendorf & Science Prize for his research on neural circuits controlling skilled movement. He identified two separate spinal cord pathways that enable rapid updates and regulation of movements.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateOct 30, 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.

Science casts light on sex in the orchard

A team of scientists has discovered the genetic mechanism behind sex determination in a species of persimmon. The OGI-MeGI system involves an unusual gene that codes for a small piece of RNA acting as molecular scissors, cutting down expression of another gene, and regulating pollen formation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2014

Reef-builders with a sense of harmony

Researchers have discovered that cold-water corals can fuse the skeletons of genetically distinct individuals, creating stable reefs in the dark depths of the ocean. This adaptation allows them to conserve energy and strengthen their habitats, potentially aiding their survival under future climate changes.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 30, 2014

Hubble sees 'ghost light' from dead galaxies

The Hubble Space Telescope has observed the faint glow of stars ejected from ancient galaxies torn apart within the Pandora's Cluster. The scattered stars are estimated to contribute approximately 10% of the cluster's brightness and are rich in heavier elements.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 30, 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.

BPA exposure by infants may increase later risk of food intolerance

New research suggests that low-dose BPA exposure in infants may lead to an increased risk of food intolerance in adulthood. A study involving rats found that perinatal exposure to BPA affected developing immune systems, predisposing offspring to food intolerance.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 30, 2014

Identifying the source of stem cells

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that a specific gene, Sox2, plays a crucial role in determining the source of stem cells in mammals. By studying mouse embryos, the team found that Sox2 appears to be acting ahead of other genes traditionally identified as playing critical roles in stem cell formation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 30, 2014

How 'trained immunity' mediates BCG therapy of bladder cancer

Researchers found that autophagy plays a central role in mediating the non-specific immune effects of BCG, leading to trained immunity. Monocytes from individuals with specific variants of the ATG2B gene respond with trained immunity, supporting the hypothesis that autophagy is clinically relevant.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 30, 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.

New optimal screening threshold for gestational diabetes in twin pregnancies

Researchers found that a blood sugar level of ≥135 mg/dL is the optimal first step cutoff for additional screening in women carrying twins, yielding 100% sensitivity with a 28.6% test positive rate. This cutoff may decrease cost and anxiety without compromising treatment effectiveness.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 30, 2014

They know the drill: UW leads the league in boring through ice sheets

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is renowned for its expertise in drilling through ice sheets, playing a critical role in advancing astronomy and understanding climate change. Researchers have successfully extracted ancient climate data from cores, providing valuable insights into the Earth's past.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateOct 30, 2014

Lord of the microrings

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have developed a unique microring laser cavity that can produce single-mode lasing even from conventional multi-mode laser cavities. This breakthrough holds implications for optical metrology, interferometry, data storage, spectroscopy, and communications.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2014

Is space tourism safe or do civilians risk health effects?

A series of articles published in New Space journal suggest that ordinary citizens can take short trips to the edge of space without significant health effects. The research also identifies potential challenges and risks associated with human commercial spaceflight.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNew Space·DateOct 30, 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.

Peripheral clocks don't need the brain's master clock to function correctly

Researchers found that peripheral tissue clocks can synchronize with the environment independently of the brain's master clock, leading to a revised model of circadian entrainment. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding and addressing circadian-related disorders.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 30, 2014

Blocking a fork in the road to DNA replication

A Whitehead Institute team found that protein SUUR acts to control gene copy number by moving along with the engine of the train, acting like a brakeman to stall or derail it. This finding sheds light on fragile genomic regions associated with chromosomal abnormalities and raises questions about its function and regulation.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 30, 2014

Toddlers copy their peers to fit in, but apes don't

Studies reveal human children as young as 2 years old conform to peer behavior to avoid social disadvantage, whereas apes prefer to stick with their own strategies. The research suggests that the motivation to fit in emerges early in humans and may be influenced by environmental factors.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 30, 2014

Rewiring cell metabolism slows colorectal cancer growth

Researchers at the University of Utah have discovered that cancers select against a protein complex called the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC), which counteracts the Warburg effect and supports uncontrolled growth in cancer. Re-introducing MPC into colon cancer cells impairs several properties of cancer, including growth.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 30, 2014