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Science News Archive October 2014 - Page 28


Page 28 of 35

Treasure trove of ancient genomes helps recalibrate the human evolutionary clock

Scientists have compiled a treasure trove of 146 ancient and modern human full mitochondrial genomes to improve the accuracy of molecular clocks in human evolution. The new data reveals that a molecular clock calibrated with ancient sequences is far more accurate than traditional ones based on archaeological evidence.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 8, 2014

Chicxulub didn't do it all by itself

New research suggests that Chicxulub's impact was not the sole cause of the end-Cretaceous mass extinction. Volcanism, climate changes, and other factors also played significant roles in four out of five major mass extinctions in Earth history.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 8, 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.

Drug-infused nanoparticle is right for sore eyes

Researchers at the University of Waterloo developed nanoparticle eye drops that can treat dry eye syndrome with just one weekly application. The drops deliver a precise amount of medication over five days, reducing irritation and excessive use of traditional eye drops.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNano Research·DateOct 8, 2014

Rivers recover natural conditions quickly following dam removal

A study by Oregon State University found that rivers can return to a condition close to their natural state after dam removal, with the biological recovery process often surpassing physical recovery. The continued presence of a dam is more significant than the sediment pulse caused by dam removal, according to researchers.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 8, 2014

NASA sees Simon spreading over US Southwest

NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on the thunderstorms expected to bring flash flooding to parts of Arizona and other desert regions in the US Southwest. The National Weather Service warned of up to an inch of rainfall possible across Arizona, leading to potential flash flooding.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 8, 2014

Astronomers see right into heart of exploding star

An international team of astronomers observed a nova explosion using radio telescopes combining data from hundreds to thousands of kilometers apart. They discovered how the gamma-ray emissions are produced, a phenomenon that mystified scientists when first observed in 2012.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateOct 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.

Gay and bisexual youth can thrive with positive family relationships

A Rutgers study found that positive family relationships and open communication lead to an increase in safe sex practices among gay and bisexual youth. The study also highlights the importance of parental acceptance and support in reducing high-risk sexual behaviors.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Marital and Family Therapy·DateOct 8, 2014

MU researchers identify epigenetic changes caused by binge drinking

Researchers at MU School of Medicine identified epigenetic protein changes caused by binge drinking, which can amplify liver damage and lead to chronic liver failure. The study suggests that excessive alcohol consumption with a binge drinking pattern is a major public health concern globally.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHepatology International·DateOct 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.

Assuring good nutrition for astronauts

Researchers investigate degradation of essential vitamins over time in spaceflight foods, aiming to develop strategies to minimize loss. They'll use similar foods consumed by astronauts at the International Space Station to determine the impact of preparation and storage conditions on vitamin potency.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 8, 2014

Healthy lifestyle may cut stroke risk in half for women

A study published in Neurology found that women with a healthy diet and lifestyle had a 54-percent lower risk of stroke compared to those with none of the five healthy factors. The study looked at factors such as diet, physical activity, and body mass index.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 8, 2014

Skin exposure may contribute to early risk for food allergies

A study published in Journal of Clinical Investigation found that skin exposure to peanut proteins can lead to sensitization and severe allergic reactions in mice. Researchers believe this mechanism may explain why peanut allergies are a common cause of food allergy in children.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 8, 2014

Conspicuous tRNA lookalikes riddle the human genome

A team of researchers found nearly double the number of genomic loci that might be coding for transfer RNAs (tRNAs) in humans, with most resembling mitochondrial tRNAs. The discovery suggests unexpected new links between the human nuclear and mitochondrial genomes.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateOct 8, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Neuroscientists use snail research to help explain 'chemo brain'

Researchers identified a neuronal pathway blocked by cancer drug doxorubicin in snails and rats, which may be responsible for 'chemo brain'. The study suggests that another agent can counteract the effects, paving the way for new treatments to alleviate cognitive deficits in cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateOct 8, 2014

NHAES scientists share in $10 milion USDA research grant

Scientists at NH Agricultural Experiment Station will apply DNA-based tools to create new rosaceous crop varieties, including strawberries, with improved product quality and disease resistance. The five-year grant aims to develop commercial scion and rootstock cultivars for local growers and organic production.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateOct 8, 2014

Putting patient's voice in center of health care

David Cella, chair of medical social sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, received a prestigious international award for his contributions to patient-reported outcome measures. He is the leader in developing and promoting these measures to put patients' voices in health care.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 8, 2014

Insomnia among older adults may be tied to sleep quality, not duration

A new study finds that insomnia symptoms in older adults may stem from poor sleep quality rather than long sleep hours. Discrepancies between self-reported insomnia and objective assessments using wrist actigraphy revealed that most older adults get sufficient sleep, but struggle with feeling rested.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateOct 8, 2014

NuSTAR discovers impossibly bright dead star

Astronomers using NASA's NuSTAR telescope have discovered a pulsar in the Cigar Galaxy, emitting energy about 100 times brighter than predicted. This finding challenges long-held assumptions about ultraluminous X-ray sources and may lead to re-evaluation of other objects previously thought to be black holes.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateOct 8, 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.

Back off: Female chimps stressed out by competing suitors

A study of wild East African chimpanzees found that females with high levels of male competition experience lower C-peptide levels, indicating energy deficit and potential weight loss. This can negatively affect their reproductive ability and fertility rates.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 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.

Can physical therapy before hip or knee replacement surgery improve outcomes?

A new study found that prehabilitation physical therapy before joint replacement surgery can significantly reduce the need for postoperative care. The research revealed a 29% reduction in postoperative care use among patients who received preoperative physical therapy, resulting in an adjusted cost savings of $1,215 per patient.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateOct 7, 2014

Around the world in 400,000 years: The journey of the red fox

Researchers mapped red fox ancestry across 1,000 individuals worldwide, revealing the species evolved into a new distinct species in North America after 400,000 years. The study suggests climate change and environmental shifts impacted global distribution.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateOct 7, 2014

Study: Even motivated dieters need close access to healthy food

A new study from UMass Medical School and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health found that even highly motivated individuals struggle to change their diet if they need to travel far to access healthy food. The study suggests that community health programs should prioritize creating supportive neighborhood environments to facili...

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 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.

Antarctic sea ice reaches new record maximum

Researchers have observed a significant increase in Antarctic sea ice extent, reaching a new record high. This upward trend is an exception to the overall decline of sea ice globally.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 7, 2014

NASA eyes Super typhoon Vongfong

Typhoon Vongfong strengthened into a Super typhoon on October 7, with cloud top temperatures indicating high rainfall capabilities. The storm is moving westward, creating massive ocean swells, and forecasters predict it will turn north by October 12.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 7, 2014

The 'cyberwar' against cancer gets a boost from intelligent nanocarriers

Researchers created a computer model that captures the exosomal exchange between cancer cells, dendritic cells, and other immune system cells. This new approach aims to find a better balance between cancer and the immune system, potentially leading to reduced side effects and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2014

NIST quantum probe enhances electric field measurements

The new NIST probe uses quantum properties of atoms to measure electric field strength with improved sensitivity and precision. It can calibrate itself and has been demonstrated for imaging applications, with potential applications in electronics and medical devices.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation·DateOct 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.

Acknowledging appearance reduces bias when beauties apply for masculine jobs, says CU-led study

A new study led by the University of Colorado Boulder found that acknowledging physical beauty can reduce bias against attractive women applying for masculine jobs. The study identified two types of sexism: hostile and benevolent, which are mitigated when applicants acknowledge their appearance or sex.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateOct 7, 2014

Efficacy of potential therapy for autoimmune disorder of muscle weakness

A new vaccine has been developed to treat a non-inherited autoimmune form of muscle weakness, with the researchers finding it effective in reversing the disease in rats. The vaccine targets immune cells that recognize and target a self protein, marking them for death.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateOct 7, 2014

Antimicrobial use in hospitals appears to be common

A study found that approximately 50% of hospitalized patients were receiving antimicrobial drugs, with half of those receiving 2 or more. The most commonly used drugs were vancomycin, piperacillin-tazobactam, and ceftriaxone, primarily for treating infections.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 7, 2014

Gastrostomy tube not advised for advanced dementia or other near end-of-life patients

The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition recommends withholding or withdrawing gastrostomy tubes in patients with advanced dementia. Current scientific evidence suggests that tube feeding does not improve outcomes in this population, instead leading to high mortality rates.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalNutrition in Clinical Practice·DateOct 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.

Oral chelation for environmental lead toxicity

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that oral chelation therapy with dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) reduced the amount of lead in blood of young children in Zamfara State, Nigeria. The treatment was associated with a significant reduction in venous blood lead levels, and no clinically severe adverse effects were reported.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 7, 2014

It's time to fight sepsis like we fight heart attack, UM researchers say

Sepsis affects more hospital patients than any other diagnosis, with half of all in-hospital deaths involving the condition. Researchers say a national system is needed to hold hospitals accountable for sepsis diagnosis and care, building on lessons from heart attack treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·DateOct 7, 2014

Small spills at gas stations could cause significant public health risks over time

Researchers found that small gasoline spills at gas stations can cumulatively harm soil and groundwater in residential areas, potentially impacting the health of those who use wells as a water source. The study suggests that these spills may be a larger issue than previously thought due to their frequency and cumulative effect.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Contaminant Hydrology·DateOct 7, 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.

New 'lab-on-a-chip' could revolutionize early diagnosis of cancer

Scientists at the University of Kansas have developed a miniaturized biomedical testing device for exosomes, promising earlier detection and improved survival rates for patients. The lab-on-a-chip technology uses magnetic beads to isolate exosomes from plasma samples, enabling minimally invasive and cost-effective cancer diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateOct 7, 2014

JAMA findings reveal vaccine approach to fight pandemic bird flu

Research finds that a vaccine protecting against an old avian flu strain primes the immune system for a rapid response when a new vaccine is given a year later. Combining this with an adjuvant, a lower dose of the new vaccine works better in triggering an immune response than a stronger dose without it.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalJAMA·DateOct 7, 2014

NASA adds up Japan's soaking rains from Typhoon Phanfone

Typhoon Phanfone brought heavy rainfall to Japan, with the most intense rain occurring west of Tokyo and over the Pacific Ocean southeast of Japan. The TRMM satellite provided near-real-time data on rainfall totals, revealing areas with rainfalls exceeding 275 mm (10.8 inches) in central Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 7, 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.

A universal Ebola drug target

A new study reports the discovery of a universally conserved drug target for Ebola, which can be used to develop effective anti-Ebola agents against all known species. The researchers have produced a peptide mimic that displays a functionally critical region of the virus, making it suitable for use in high-throughput drug screens.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProtein Science·DateOct 7, 2014

How dinosaurs divided their meals at the Jurassic dinner table

Researchers from the University of Bristol and the Natural History Museum found that sauropod skulls were sophisticated cropping tools, allowing different species to coexist by partitioning their diets. The study used biomechanical techniques and CT scans to investigate the feeding mechanisms of these giant herbivores.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateOct 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.

Testosterone promotes prostate cancer in rats

A new study published in Endocrinology found that testosterone treatment increased the incidence of prostate carcinomas in rats. The research suggests that testosterone alone is a weak carcinogen in male rats and creates a hospitable environment for tumors to develop when combined with cancer-causing chemicals.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrinology·DateOct 7, 2014

Timely Ebola information from Journal of Disaster Medicine & Public Health Preparedness

The Society for Disaster Medicine and Public Health is launching a special issue on Ebola, providing timely expert information to address the virus. The journal aims to translate science into practice, integrating medical and public health perspectives to effectively deal with major events.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateOct 7, 2014

Candidate H7N9 avian flu vaccine works better with adjuvant

A new experimental vaccine against H7N9 avian influenza prompted immune responses in 59% of volunteers who received two injections with an adjuvant booster. Without the adjuvant, immune responses were minimal regardless of vaccine dosage.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJAMA·DateOct 7, 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.

Survival molecule helps cancer cells hide from the immune system

Researchers found that nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) enables cancer cells to evade the immune system by suppressing genes that inhibit the immune response. Inhibiting NF-kB may make tumor cells more vulnerable to elimination by the immune system.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 7, 2014

Pitt receives $1.25 million from Defense Department for whole-eye transplantation

The University of Pittsburgh will lead a multidisciplinary consortium to explore strategies for whole-eye transplantation, with the goal of restoring vision in patients with traumatic or degenerative eye damage. The project aims to overcome challenges related to immune rejection and optic nerve regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateOct 7, 2014