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Science News Archive September 2014 - Page 17


Page 17 of 34

Counting fish teeth reveals regulatory DNA changes behind rapid evolution, adaptation

Scientists have discovered that a single genetic change in the Bmp6 gene is associated with an increase in tooth number in freshwater sticklebacks, which can lead to cleft palate deformities. The study suggests that regulating this gene may hold the key to replacing human teeth and improving tooth formation.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2014

Study identifies when and how much various prostate cancer treatments will impact urinary and sexual functioning

Researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 surveys to track changes in urinary and sexual symptoms following various prostate cancer treatments. The study found that certain treatments, such as surgery and low-dose rate brachytherapy (LDR), may cause temporary increases in symptoms, while others, like intensity modulated radiation ther...

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateSep 16, 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.

Waistlines of US adults continue to increase

The prevalence of abdominal obesity and average waist circumference increased significantly among US adults between 1999-2012. The overall age-adjusted average waist circumference rose by 1.2 inches in men and 1.5 inches in women, with significant increases seen across different racial groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 16, 2014

And so they beat on, flagella against the cantilever

Scientists at Boston University and Stanford University School of Medicine attach E. coli colonies to a microcantilever, allowing real-time monitoring of bacterial motion and communication patterns. The new system enables rapid assessment of antibiotic susceptibility and potential applications in cancer drug development.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 16, 2014

Results of IVUS-CTO trial reported at TCT 2014

A randomized trial found that IVUS-guidance significantly improved 12-month clinical outcomes after new-generation drug-eluting stent implantation, compared to conventional angiography-guided CTO intervention. The IVUS-CTO study showed lower rates of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and target-vessel revascularization in the IVUS-...

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 16, 2014

Making quantum dots glow brighter

Researchers have discovered a way to control the properties of quantum dots by using ultrathin layers of metal oxides. This new approach makes quantum dots glow brighter and enhances their emission efficiency, which is crucial for applications such as sensors, light-emitting diodes, and solar cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 16, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Select group of stage IV lung cancer patients achieve long-term survival after aggressive treatments

A meta-analysis of 757 Stage IV NSCLC patients found that factors such as timing of metastases and lymph node involvement impact overall survival. The study identified three risk groups with different five-year OS rates, and highlighted the importance of identifying patients who are most likely to benefit from aggressive treatments.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 16, 2014

Artworks are people!

A new study suggests that artworks are perceived as an extension of the creator, with original pieces valued more highly than copies. The researchers propose a concept called 'magical contagion,' where the artist's physical presence imbues the work with their essence.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateSep 16, 2014

Prostate cancer patients who receive hypofractionated RT report consistent QoL

A phase I/II trial of hypofractionated radiation therapy found that prostate cancer patients reported similar quality of life, bladder and bowel function before and after treatment. The study's results also indicated that different regimens of hypofractionated RT produced similar outcomes in terms of patient-reported quality of life.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 16, 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.

New gene research helps pinpoint prostate cancer risk

A global study of 80,000 men with prostate cancer has identified another 23 prostate cancer risk loci, bringing the total to 100 genetic regions associated with the disease. The study found that these genetic variants explain 33% of familial risk and can be used to predict aggressive form of prostate cancer.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 16, 2014

UCI team is first to capture motion of single molecule in real time

Researchers from UCI capture moving images of a single molecule as it vibrates and shifts between quantum states, opening a window into the realm of quantum mechanics. This breakthrough could lead to applications such as lightning-fast quantum computers and uncrackable encryption.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 16, 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.

NASA's HS3 mission covers transition of Hurricane Cristobal

The HS3 mission gathered data on Hurricane Cristobal as it became an extra-tropical storm, revealing strong winds and dry air moving eastward across the western side of the storm. The data showed a shift in the strongest winds outward from the center compared to earlier stages in the storm's lifecycle.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2014

Slimy fish and the origins of brain development

Researchers studied lamprey embryology to understand the evolutionary origins of modern vertebrates. They discovered that Hox genes play a crucial role in hindbrain segmentation, which is conserved across vertebrates.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 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.

'Smart material' chin strap harvests energy from chewing

Researchers have created a smart material-based chin strap that generates electricity from chewing, eating and talking, with potential to power hearing aids, cochlear implants and other small electronic devices. The device harnesses piezoelectric fiber composites to convert mechanical stress into electric charge.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateSep 16, 2014

Evidence of genetic link to PTSD in soldiers exposed to childhood trauma

Researchers at Columbia University and the University of Michigan found an interaction between the ADRB2 gene and childhood adversity in a study of Ohio National Guard soldiers. The study suggests that genetic variations can influence PTSD symptoms, particularly in individuals with two or more experiences of childhood trauma.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 16, 2014

Do ads showing sexy women make male consumers less charitable?

A recent study found that men who viewed images of sexy women felt less connected to others and were less likely to make charitable contributions. Exposure to such images temporarily decreased male consumers' sense of psychological connectedness with others, making them less receptive to ads promoting social benefits.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 16, 2014

Do wearable lifestyle activity monitors really work?

Researchers analyze 13 wearable activity monitors to determine their effectiveness in promoting healthy behaviors. While many apps are in line with health community recommendations, some lack key features such as action planning and problem-solving tools.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateSep 16, 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.

Scientists twist radio beams to send data

Researchers at USC have developed a technique to twist radio beams and transmit data at high speeds of 32 gigabits per second. This method outperforms traditional optical systems and could enable ultra-high-speed links for next-generation cellular systems.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2014

Study compares effectiveness of treatments for blood clots

A network meta-analysis of nearly 50 randomized trials compared the efficacy and safety outcomes of eight anticoagulation options for venous thromboembolism. Rivaroxaban and apixaban were associated with the lowest bleeding risk, while UFH-vitamin K antagonist combination was linked to higher recurrent venous thromboembolism rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 16, 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.

Camera developed at WUSTL sheds light on mate choice of swordtail fish

Female northern swordtail fish are attracted to specific patterns visible in polarized light, increasing mating chances for males with higher polarization. The camera developed by Viktor Gruev captures real-time polarization properties of light, revealing new insights into vertebrate behavior.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2014

Results of OCT STEMI trial reported at TCT 2014

A new randomized trial demonstrated that optical coherence tomography (OCT) guidance during stent implantation in primary PCI for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) improves patient outcomes. The OCT STEMI trial found lower area stenosis and fewer uncovered struts after nine months, indicating better long-term results.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 16, 2014

Unraveling cell division

Researchers have found that Topo 2, an essential enzyme for chromosome separation, needs more time to untangle long chromosomes, which can lead to mutations and cancer. The study suggests that chromosome length affects the enzyme's action and highlights the importance of understanding cell division.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 16, 2014

Contaminated water in 2 states linked to faulty shale gas wells

A study by researchers from five universities found that contamination in drinking water wells in Pennsylvania and Texas stems from well-integrity problems such as poor casing and cementing. The analysis used noble gas and hydrocarbon tracers to identify the source of fugitive methane and determine if it is natural or not.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

New drug target could prevent major global cause of maternal death

Researchers have identified a novel drug target, Kir7.1, that induces acute and sustained uterine contractions to treat postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), a major global cause of maternal mortality. The treatment bypasses biochemical pathways exhausted during prolonged labour, promising effective treatment at low doses.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMolecular Medicine·DateSep 15, 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.

Recommendations to improve scientific decision-making

The researchers emphasize the need for clear communication of science to policymakers and the general public to make informed decisions. They offer a communication protocol that involves identifying relevant facts, characterizing uncertainties, and assessing their magnitude.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

Neuroscientists identify key role of language gene

Researchers found that the human version of the Foxp2 gene helps transform new experiences into routine procedures, enabling faster learning and better habit formation. The gene's protein, a transcription factor, regulates synaptic connections between neurons, allowing for more efficient learning and language acquisition.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

Decoding virus-host interactions in the oxygen-starved ocean

Researchers uncover new insights into viral infections influencing SUP05 ecology and metabolic potential in oxygen-minimum zones. The study reveals viruses play a crucial role in marine microbial ecology below sunlit surface waters, with implications for ocean carbon cycling.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·DateSep 15, 2014

Zebrafish genes linked to human respiratory diseases

Scientists have discovered genes in zebrafish that may be synonymous with human airway genes, which could lead to new treatments for Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) and other respiratory diseases. The study identified hundreds of novel genes associated with cilia formation, shedding light on the causes of defective motile cilia.

SourceBiomedical Sciences Institutes (BMSI)·JournalDevelopment·DateSep 15, 2014

The biomethane market needs clear frame conditions for further growth

A new IEA study highlights the need for clear frame conditions to promote biomethane market growth. The report analyzes production technologies, grid injection, and use in various countries, emphasizing the importance of technical standards, sustainability requirements, and financial support.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·DateSep 15, 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.

AGA releases new tool to help GIs evaluate and treat Crohn's disease

The American Gastroenterological Association has released a new clinical decision tool to guide gastroenterologists in assessing and treating patients with Crohn's disease. The tool synthesizes current literature to create a practical algorithm for clinicians, providing a pathway for better quality care.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 15, 2014

WSU researchers find 'most famous wheat gene'

Researchers at Washington State University have found a key gene in wheat that can be used to transfer valuable traits from other plants, reducing crop losses and pesticide use. The discovery enables breeders to develop disease- and pest-resistant wheat varieties without the need for genetically modified organisms.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2014

A heart-felt need for dairy food

A study of nearly 4000 Taiwanese found that increased dairy consumption lowered cardiovascular mortality and stroke risks. Moderate dairy intake, even in lactose intolerant individuals, is beneficial for overall health.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateSep 15, 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 first to use brain scans to forecast early reading difficulties

Researchers used brain scans to forecast early reading difficulties in kindergarteners, finding that white matter development predicts reading ability. The study suggests a new tool for clinicians to spot dyslexia and other reading challenges before they arise.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 15, 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.

Scientists come closer to the industrial synthesis of a material harder than diamond

Researchers at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have developed a new method for synthesizing ultrahard fullerite, a material with hardness values ranging from 150 to 300 GPa, surpassing diamond. The breakthrough synthesis requires lower pressures and can be achieved at room temperature, enabling industrial-scale production.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalCarbon·DateSep 15, 2014

Long-term effects of childhood asthma influenced by socioeconomic status

Research found that socioeconomic status significantly affects childhood asthma outcomes, with poor consequences concentrated among economically disadvantaged children. Family environment and parental stress play a crucial role in managing asthma, highlighting the need for social and emotional supports.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 15, 2014

Give progesterone a chance

Researchers suggest progesterone as a potential treatment for spinal cord injury due to its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Studies demonstrate that progesterone preserves white matter integrity and improves locomotor function in animal models of spinal cord lesion.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 15, 2014
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

One in five men reports violence toward intimate partners

A new study by the University of Michigan found that one in five men in the US report violence towards their spouses or partners, with warning signs including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and insomnia. The study suggests that male aggression can be identified through routine health care visits and could potentially be intervened upon.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateSep 15, 2014

This is your brain on snacks -- brain stimulation affects craving and consumption

Researchers found that magnetic stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) increases cravings for high-calorie snacks and consumption among healthy young women. Weakening DLPFC activity also reduces inhibitory control strength and increases reward sensitivity, making individuals more susceptible to overeating.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateSep 15, 2014

Gut bacteria tire out T cells

Patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) experience recurrent bacterial infections due to exhausted T cells expressing inhibitory protein PD-1. Rejuvenating these cells through blocking PD-1 may offer protection against bacterial infections, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 15, 2014

Oregon researchers urge psychologists to see institutional betrayal

Researchers highlight patterns of institutional betrayal, including membership qualifications, power differentials, and institutional denial, which can lead to trauma and mistrust. They offer recommendations for reducing betrayal and suggest using the Institutional Betrayal Questionnaire to improve client-clinician discussions.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateSep 15, 2014

WSU researchers explain mystery of cereal grain defense

Researchers at Washington State University have identified specific genes in barley that enable the plant to live longer and become more tolerant of stress, including disease. These findings could lead to the development of crop breeding programs that slow aging and increase yields without genetic engineering.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 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.

M 9.0+ possible for subduction zones along 'Ring of Fire,' suggests new study

New research provides estimates for probable maximum magnitude events in subduction zones for various time periods, including 250, 500 and 10,000 years. Most subduction zones can generate M 8.5 or greater over a 250-return period; M 8.8 or greater over 500 years; and M 9.0 or greater over 10,000 years.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateSep 15, 2014