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Science News Archive October 2014 - Page 6


Page 6 of 35

New study will track factors in early menopause

Researchers are conducting a comprehensive study to investigate the link between various factors and early menopause. The study will examine biochemical, reproductive, dietary, and lifestyle factors to determine their association with the risk of early menopause.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 28, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UC Davis scientists discover exact receptor for DEET that repels mosquitoes

Researchers have identified the exact odorant receptor that repels mosquitoes, paving the way for better and more affordable insect repellents. The discovery of a plant defensive compound that mimics DEET could lead to new treatments for vector-borne diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2014

Using radio waves to control the density in a fusion plasma

Scientists at MIT and General Atomics successfully controlled the density of a fusion plasma using radio waves. The experiments revealed that turbulent density fluctuations intensify when most heat goes to electrons, which can be used to minimize turbulence and optimize core temperature under fusion conditions.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 28, 2014

Giant tortoises gain a foothold on a Galapagos Island

A population of giant tortoises has recovered on the Galapagos island of Española, with over 1,000 breeding and restoring some ecological damage. However, more work is needed to fully recover the ecosystem upon which the tortoises and other rare species depend.

SourceSUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 28, 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.

Screening with tomosynthesis and mammography is cost-effective

A study found that combining digital mammography with tomosynthesis screening is more effective in detecting breast cancer among women with dense breasts. This combined approach avoids false-positive results and unnecessary procedures, making it a cost-effective option.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateOct 28, 2014

Blood test developed to diagnose early onset Alzheimer's disease

A new blood test has been developed to diagnose early onset Alzheimer's disease, detecting changes in the brain two decades before symptoms appear. The test shows high accuracy in predicting AD risk and has the potential to improve treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalMolecular Biology·DateOct 28, 2014
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Study on western diet and role in GI cancer funded

Researchers will investigate how the Western diet increases the risk of developing liver and gastrointestinal cancers. They also aim to determine if specific bifidobacteria species can mitigate the negative effects of a high-fat, high-sugar diet.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateOct 28, 2014

What's in a name? Everything -- if you're a fruit fly

A global research effort has resolved a major biosecurity issue by identifying four destructive fruit fly species as one, Bactrocera dorsalis. The combination of these species will lead to improved international cooperation in pest management and enhanced food security for some of the world's poorest nations.

SourcePlant Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre·JournalSystematic Entomology·DateOct 28, 2014

Improving breast cancer chemo by testing patient's tumors in a dish

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a technique to test the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs on individual patients' tumors in a dish, using fluorescence imaging to monitor the response. The test can detect significant drops in metabolic activity levels within 72 hours, allowing doctors to identify the most effective ...

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCancer Research·DateOct 28, 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.

Lack of A level maths leading to fewer female economists

A study by the University of Southampton found that women are less likely to apply for economics degrees due to a lack of A-level maths, resulting in an underrepresentation of women in the field. Despite having better grades in maths than male applicants, female students are still less likely to enroll in economics courses.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCESifo Economic Studies·DateOct 28, 2014

Physicists' simple solution for quantum technology challenge

Researchers have developed a new technique using electromagnetic induction to create a flexibly designed microscopic trap for atoms. This breakthrough could revolutionize the development of quantum technologies, including high-precision sensors and superfast computers.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2014

IU researchers: Blood test may help to diagnose pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Indiana University have found that a panel of microRNAs in plasma can accurately diagnose pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most common type of pancreatic malignancy. The discovery could lead to a blood test for early detection and potentially improve treatment outcomes.

SourceIndiana University·DateOct 28, 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.

The early chimp gets the fig

Researchers studied wild chimpanzee behavior in the Taí National Park, finding that they plan their breakfast time, type, and location to access limited figs. Chimpanzees depart earlier for distant fig sites, positioning their nests near these locations to maximize food acquisition.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2014

UK medical schools are not attracting enough GPs

A report by Richard Wakeford highlights the shortage of doctors in general practice, with only 11% of new medical students planning a career in GP. The Medical Schools Council's lack of representation from GPs is a major concern, as it may hinder effective recruitment.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 28, 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.

Can the wave function of an electron be divided and trapped?

Physicists at Brown University have successfully trapped parts of an electron's wave function in liquid helium, a phenomenon that could fundamentally change our understanding of quantum mechanics. The discovery raises questions about the measurement process and the nature of particles at the quantum level.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Low Temperature Physics·DateOct 28, 2014

Autism after high school: Making the transition

A new study at the University of Kentucky aims to address the challenges faced by individuals with autism as they complete high school and prepare for adulthood. The Collaborative Model for Promoting Competence and Success (COMPASS) will be adapted for young adults, focusing on skills training, social support, and transition planning.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateOct 28, 2014

Postcards from the plasma edge

Researchers improved plasma performance by applying lithium coatings, but the mechanism behind this improvement remains unclear. A new laboratory experiment found that temperature affects lithium's ability to retain deuterium particles, with oxygen exposure improving retention at lower temperatures.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 28, 2014

The effect of statins influenced by gene profiles

A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified two genomic regions associated with responses to statins, paving the way for tailored treatment plans. With over 40,000 research subjects involved, this meta-analysis demonstrates a significant impact of gene profiles on statin efficacy.

SourceMontreal Heart Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 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.

When faced with higher prices, swimming is the activity most likely to take a dive

A Brunel University study found that people are more likely to drop swimming if faced with higher prices, with a 29% decrease in activity. In contrast, other forms of exercise such as working out and brisk walking show minimal impact, suggesting targeted subsidies could boost participation.

SourceBrunel University·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateOct 28, 2014

Helping general electric upgrade the US power grid

Researchers at General Electric and Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have collaborated on designing a plasma-based power switch, which could contribute to the US power grid's advancement and reliability. The switch utilizes a compact, low-cost design, potentially reducing utility bills and enhancing grid efficiency.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 28, 2014

Many home blood pressure monitors may be inaccurate

A recent study found that home blood pressure monitors can be inaccurate, with systolic readings off by as much as 5mm Hg and diastolic readings off by as much as 10mm Hg in up to 30% of patients. The American Society of Nephrology recommends that all patients with home monitors get them validated with their healthcare providers.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateOct 28, 2014

Boulder team wins International Water Prize

A Boulder research team has developed a new technique to measure soil moisture, vegetation water content, and snow depth using GPS signals, which could significantly enhance the ability to monitor the water cycle. The technique, known as GPS Interferometric Reflectometry (GPS-IR), uses data from over 10,000 GPS stations worldwide to pr...

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateOct 28, 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.

Researchers prove accuracy of mobile phone population mapping

A study by an international team has shown that anonymous mobile phone call record data can be as accurate as traditional census-based maps. The findings have significant implications for infrastructure and emergency planners, particularly in low-income countries where recent population density information is often scarce.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2014

Fewer women than men receive hemodialysis treatment

A comprehensive analysis of sex-specific differences in end-stage kidney disease treatment found that more men than women are on hemodialysis. Women's survival after hemodialysis is virtually equal to men's survival, but they were not receiving treatment as early, leading to higher mortality rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 28, 2014

NUS researchers discover for the first time that a rare bush frog breeds in bamboo

Researchers from NUS observe a new reproductive mode in critically endangered white spotted bush frogs, breeding and laying direct-developing eggs in live bamboo. The discovery sheds light on the unique behavior of these frogs and highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect their habitats.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateOct 28, 2014

Text messages could be useful tool in fight against malaria

Researchers found that simple text messages can help patients complete their full malaria medication regimen, boosting rates of treatment completion and reducing the risk of drug-resistant diseases. The study used SMS reminders in Ghana and showed a significant impact on treatment adherence.

SourceInnovations for Poverty Action·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 28, 2014

Identifying the biological clock that governs female fertility

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered a signaling pathway in granulosa cells that plays a key role in enabling immature eggs to survive. This mechanism serves as a biological clock monitoring the onset of menopause, allowing the granulosa cells to decide when eggs will begin to grow and when they will die.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 28, 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.

The bee's knees for identifying genetic triggers of novel adult traits

Researchers found that adults rely on novel genes---called taxonomically restricted genes (TRGs)--found in honeybees to develop new traits. These genes are often expressed at high levels in specific tissues and provide specialized work for adult organisms, supporting the evolution of novel physiological traits.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 28, 2014

Genome sequenced of enterovirus D68 circulating in St. Louis

The researchers sequenced the genome of enterovirus D68 from patients treated at St. Louis Children's Hospital, enabling additional research and potential diagnostic tests. The study found that seven of nine patients with the D68 strain had severe disease requiring ICU admission.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateOct 28, 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.

Remnants of tropical depression soaking Central America

Tropical Storm Hanna made landfall near Nicaragua and Honduras on Oct. 27, bringing strong thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to the region. The remnants of the storm continued to generate isolated thunderstorms over Honduras and northern Nicaragua until they dissipated by Oct. 28.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 28, 2014

Imaging the genome: Cataloguing the fundamental processes of life

Scientists have developed a technique to survey the fission yeast genome in relation to cell shape, microtubule organisation, and cell cycle progression. The study reveals new links between hundreds of genes and these cellular processes, including a previously unknown connection between DNA repair machinery and microtubule stability.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateOct 27, 2014

A demography of unceasing discomfort

According to a WSU study, nearly one in five US adults suffer from persistent pain, with significant economic and social costs. Persistent pain affects daily life, work, family, and social interactions, increasing the risk of mental illness and addiction.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Pain·DateOct 27, 2014

CWRU researcher finds training officers about mental illness benefits prison's safety

A study by CWRU researcher Joseph Galanek found that training correctional officers on mental illness symptoms improves prison safety, security, and humane treatment of inmates. The research showed that trained officers could use their discretion to respond to mentally ill inmates without rigidly enforcing prison rules.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalMedical Anthropology Quarterly·DateOct 27, 2014

Cell membranes self-assemble

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have developed a new process for self-driving phospholipid membrane assembly, similar to those found in living cells. This non-enzymatic technique can be used for artificial cell studies and potentially for drug delivery packets.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 27, 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.

Insightful mathematics for an optimal run

A pair of mathematicians from France propose a system of ordinary differential equations to optimize running strategies. The model uses physiological parameters and energy conservation principles, allowing for the prediction of ideal race performances.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateOct 27, 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.

How Staph infections elude the immune system

A study found that Staphylococcus aureus uses protein A as a superantigen to activate many B cells, leading to immune tunnel vision and reduced protection against infection. This knowledge can inform future vaccine approaches to combat MRSA.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 27, 2014

Satellite movie shows Tropical Storm Ana headed to British Columbia, Canada

Tropical Storm Ana has moved west of the Hawaiian Islands and into the open waters of the Central Pacific Ocean, strengthening into a hurricane and weakening back to a tropical storm. The storm is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to British Columbia's central coast, with wind warnings posted along some coastal sections.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 27, 2014

'Integrated Play Groups' help children with autism

A new study shows that Integrated Play Groups are effective in teaching children with autism to interact with peers and engage in symbolic play. The model, developed by Pamela Wolfberg, focuses on collaborative rather than adult-directed activities, allowing children to learn social skills through interactions with peers.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateOct 27, 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.

Tremendously bright pulsar may be 1 of many

Astronomers have discovered a pulsar that emits an incredible amount of energy, shining brighter than previously thought possible. This find challenges the previous assumption that ultra-luminous X-ray sources are likely black holes.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 2014