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Science News Archive September 2014 - Page 26


Page 26 of 34

Graphene gets a 'cousin' in the shape of germanene

A team of European researchers has successfully synthesized germanene, a 2D material with impressive electrical and optical properties. The material was synthesized by depositing individual germanium atoms onto a gold substrate under high temperatures and in an ultra-high vacuum, revealing its characteristic honeycomb structure.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateSep 9, 2014

An evolutionary approach to epidemics

Researchers applied evolutionary game theory to analyze disease outbreaks, identifying four key outcomes influenced by government response and healthcare provision. The approach has been tested with actual data from the 2009 influenza outbreak and may inform quarantine measures for future pandemics.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Innovative Computing and Applications·DateSep 9, 2014

Olaparib tablet safe in pretreated ovarian cancer patients

A phase Ib clinical trial found that olaparib tablets were safe and effective in heavily pretreated ovarian cancer patients, particularly those with BRCA mutations. The treatment regimen provided a response rate of 66 percent and no grade 4 toxicities, making it a promising option for improving cure rates and quality of life.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateSep 9, 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.

New digital map reveals stunning hidden archaeology of Stonehenge

The Stonehenge Hidden Landscapes Project has discovered hundreds of new archaeological features using remote sensing techniques and geophysical surveys. The project has revealed detailed maps of burial mounds, Bronze Age settlements, and Iron Age fields, providing a new understanding of the development of Stonehenge over 11,000 years.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·DateSep 9, 2014

No convincing evidence to support use of new hip and knee implants

A recent study by researchers found no conclusive evidence to support the use of new hip and knee implants, highlighting concerns over inadequate regulatory oversight. The review of 15,384 implants in 13,164 patients revealed higher rates of repeat surgery associated with some devices.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 9, 2014

UT Southwestern expert co-chairs national team to develop first comprehensive guidelines for management of sickle cell disease

A nationwide team of experts led by UT Southwestern hematologist Dr. George Buchanan developed the first comprehensive, evidence-based guidelines for managing sickle cell disease from birth to end of life. The guidelines consist of over 500 specific directions for physicians caring for patients with sickle cell disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateSep 9, 2014

First evidence for water ice clouds found outside solar system

Brown dwarf W0855, located just four light-years from our Sun, exhibits frozen clouds of sulfide and water in its atmosphere. This breakthrough finding, published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, provides crucial insights into the atmospheric composition of exoplanet candidates.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 9, 2014

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis cases linked with asbestos exposure

A proportion of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) cases may be linked with unknown asbestos exposure according to the results of a new study. This would mean that current treatment strategies for IPF need to be altered as people with a history of asbestos exposure are not currently eligible for new treatments.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 9, 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.

An appetite for life

A study published in Appetite found that elderly people with fair or poor appetites had higher risks of mortality than those with good appetites. Those with poor appetites consumed a less diverse diet, leading to lower energy and nutrient intake.

SourceMonash University·JournalAppetite·DateSep 9, 2014

Understanding a molecular motor responsible for human development

Researchers at the University of Bristol have defined the composition of the human cytoplasmic dynein-2 complex, essential for normal human development. This discovery sheds light on ciliopathies, a range of diseases caused by dysfunctional cilia, and could lead to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateSep 9, 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.

Jeffrey Modell Foundation supports Belgian research on primary immunodeficiency

The Jeffrey Modell Foundation has awarded a research grant to a Belgian laboratory led by Adrian Liston to develop a gene therapy for children suffering from IPEX syndrome. The gene therapy aims to correct the mutation responsible for the disease, offering a potential cure for this rare and fatal autoimmune disorder.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·DateSep 9, 2014

Rice wireless experts tap unused TV spectrum

Researchers at Rice University have created a multiuser, multiantenna transmission scheme for the UHF band, which can serve multiple users simultaneously over long distances. The new technology combines proven technologies like MIMO to boost data rates without increasing power or channel usage.

SourceRice University·DateSep 9, 2014

Co-flowing liquids can stabilize chaotic 'whipping' in microfluidic jets

A research team led by Alberto Fernandez-Nieves has figured out how to convert the standard chaotic waveform to a stable helical form. By controlling the viscosity and speed of the secondary liquid surrounding the jets, they were able to stabilize the structure associated with the whipping behavior.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2014

NASA catches the end of Tropical Depression 14W

Tropical Depression 14W made landfall in southeastern China on September 8 after forming in the South China Sea. NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data showing a powerful storm with cold cloud top temperatures near -63F/-52C.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 8, 2014

Whale sex: It's all in the hips

Research from USC and NHM found that whale pelvic bones serve a purpose and are influenced by sexual selection. The study compared the size of pelvic bones to testis size, revealing a correlation between more competitive mating environments and larger pelvic bones.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEvolution·DateSep 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.

Study puts some mussels into Bay restoration

Researchers found that mussels on restored oyster reefs can filter up to two-fold more plankton than oysters alone, significantly enhancing water quality. This discovery could increase the 'return on investment' for oyster-reef restoration projects.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateSep 8, 2014

Pastors get scant seminary training on how to help mentally ill, Baylor study finds

A Baylor University study found that seminaries provide inadequate training for pastors to recognize serious psychological distress and refer individuals to professionals. Most counseling classes focused on premarital or family counseling, with limited elective options available for mental health courses.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Research on Christian Education·DateSep 8, 2014

Fish as good as chimpanzees at choosing the best partner for a task

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that coral trout are as proficient as chimpanzees in determining when to collaborate and selecting the most effective partner. The study showed that the fish can learn quickly and make informed decisions about their collaborators, mirroring human-like abilities.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 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.

Researchers part water

Researchers have developed a method to isolate and separate para and ortho water molecules, which differ in their nuclear spin states. This breakthrough could provide new insights into various phenomena, including the study of interstellar ice and protein structures.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 8, 2014

Coral trout pick their collaborators carefully

Researchers found that coral trout can choose the best moray partner for hunting, and even learn which one is more helpful. They use intentional communication to manipulate the behavior of suitable species to achieve a common goal.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 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.

Brain damage caused by severe sleep apnea is reversible

A neuroimaging study reveals that severe obstructive sleep apnea causes significant damage to brain white matter integrity in multiple brain areas. However, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has been shown to reverse this damage and improve cognitive function, mood, and quality of life after just 12 months of treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateSep 8, 2014

Novel cancer drug proves safe for leukemia patients

A new cancer drug targeting mitochondrial function has been proven safe and showed some efficacy in a Phase I clinical trial for leukemia patients. The drug selectively shut down energy production in cancer cells, which can reproduce faster and repair damage from chemotherapy.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 8, 2014

Transformative science

A new partnership between NSF, NCI, SU2C, and The V Foundation will explore transformative, theoretical biophysics for cancer research and treatment. This collaboration aims to merge life sciences with physical, computational, and engineering sciences to develop innovative approaches.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 8, 2014

A single evolutionary road may lead to Rome

Researchers identified a shared gene responsible for flashy markings in two butterfly families, tracing it back to their ancient ancestors. This finding suggests that simple traits may follow a single evolutionary road, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of evolution.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 8, 2014

Rice chemist wins rare NSF Special Creativity Award

Zubarev's team is refining methods to produce more gold nanorods using ascorbic acid, with potential applications in medical diagnostics and photothermal therapy. The NSF grant extension will support further research into processing and incorporating nanorods into metamaterials.

SourceRice University·DateSep 8, 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.

Sodium's influence on blood pressure statistically insignificant

A new study published in the American Journal of Hypertension suggests that sodium intake has a minimal impact on blood pressure. Higher consumption of fruits and vegetables was shown to significantly lower blood pressure, while increased physical activity showed no noticeable effect.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateSep 8, 2014

Rapid and durable protection against ebola virus with new vaccine regimens

Researchers have successfully tested a new vaccine regimen that provides rapid protection against Ebola virus in monkeys, with some animals remaining protected for up to 10 months after vaccination. The experimental ChAd3 Ebola vaccine demonstrated strong immune responses in both single-dose and prime-boost regimens.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

Bacteria from bees possible alternative to antibiotics

Researchers identified lactic acid bacteria in honey that effectively counteracted severe human wound pathogens and persistent horse wounds. The bacteria produce a broad spectrum of antimicrobial compounds as needed, depending on the threat.

SourceLund University·JournalInternational Wound Journal·DateSep 8, 2014

Agricultural revolution in Africa could increase global carbon emissions

Improving agricultural productivity in Africa could lead to an increase in global deforestation rates and carbon emissions. However, the study found that if markets become more integrated, the negative effects of a green revolution in Africa will diminish over time.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

Gobbling up poison: A method for killing colon cancer

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a novel approach to killing colon cancer cells by using an antibody that targets the GUCY2C receptor, which is over-produced and exhibited on the surface of cancer cells. The immunotoxin selectively destroys colon cancer cells while sparing surrounding tissue.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 8, 2014

New mechanism in gene regulation revealed

Scientists have unraveled a molecular mechanism of mRNA recognition, essential for understanding differential gene regulation in male and female organisms. This principle represents an essential and widespread mechanism of gene regulation in higher organisms.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 2014

Doped graphene nanoribbons with potential

Scientists create doped graphene nanoribbons with nitrogen atoms, enabling directional electronic current flow and solving scaling issues. The development allows for the transfer of ultra-narrow graphene ribbons onto non-conductive materials, paving the way for future graphene-based electronics.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 8, 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.

UCLA biologists delay the aging process by 'remote control'

Researchers identified a gene called AMPK that can slow the aging process throughout the entire body when activated remotely in key organ systems. Activating AMPK in fruit flies increased their lifespans by about 30 percent and kept them healthier longer.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 8, 2014

E-cigarette nicotine refill cartridges pose danger for toddlers

E-cigarette nicotine refill cartridges contain high levels of nicotine, posing a risk to young children who may accidentally ingest them. The US CDC reports a massive rise in accidental poison calls related to e-cigarette refills, with over half involving children under 5.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateSep 8, 2014

Study finds tear gas could have temporary impact on lung health

A study found that tear gas exposure can lead to respiratory symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and phlegm production in protesters, with the effects lasting up to two weeks. Researchers also discovered that people living near protest areas were exposed to harmful lung health effects from tear gas use.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 8, 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.

Miriam Hospital among national research group awarded $20 million NIH grant

The Miriam Hospital is part of a research collaboration that has received a $20 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to develop an intravaginal ring (IVR) that can deliver powerful antiretroviral drugs to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted HIV in women. The project will test multiple-drug combinations to d...

SourceLifespan·DateSep 8, 2014

Textbook theory behind volcanoes may be wrong

Researchers confirm that textbook theory behind volcanoes is incorrect, with no evidence for narrow mantle plumes. Instead, large, slow-moving chunks of mantle drive volcano formation through plate tectonics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2014

UNC researchers find new genetic target for a different kind of cancer drug

Researchers found that the protein RBM4, crucial to gene splicing, is drastically decreased in multiple forms of human cancer, including lung and breast cancers. This discovery offers a new route toward therapies targeting altered genetic pathways that allow cancer cells to proliferate and spread.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 8, 2014

Layered graphene sandwich for next generation electronics

Scientists have successfully demonstrated how combining hexagonal boron nitride and graphene can create perfect crystals capable of being used in ultra-high frequency devices. The research paves the way for innovative applications in high-frequency electronics.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 8, 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.

Sex hormones may play a part in autism

A study found that autistic males have lower levels of estrogen receptors and aromatase, an enzyme converting testosterone to estradiol. This could lead to increased testosterone levels, potentially contributing to the disorder's prevalence in men. The findings suggest a possible reason for the gender bias in autism diagnosis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Autism·DateSep 8, 2014

Unusual immune cell needed to prevent oral thrush, Pitt researchers find

Pitt researchers identify natural TH17 cells as a key player in preventing oral thrush, a common infection among HIV patients and those with impaired immune systems. These innate immune cells produce IL-17 to fight Candida albicans, a fungus that causes painful white lesions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

In directing stem cells, study shows context matters

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison found that the stiffness of surfaces on which stem cells are grown influences cell fate. A soft, brain tissue-like surface directed cells to become neurons, while stiffer surfaces favored the stem cell state.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

NASA sees post-Tropical Cyclone Norbert fading near Baja California

Post-tropical cyclone Norbert is weakening and losing strength, but still causing rough surf along the Baja California coast. The storm's remnants are expected to spread heavy rains and life-threatening flash flooding across northern Mexico and the southwestern United States.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 8, 2014

Input from a psychologist can help improve asthma symptoms

A new study suggests that addressing psychological needs can help alleviate severe asthma symptoms. The research found a 42% reduction in hospital days among patients who received psychological support after experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 8, 2014

Sun-powered desalination for villages in India

Researchers at MIT have developed a solar-powered desalination system that can provide clean drinking water to villages in India. The system, which uses electrodialysis technology, is more energy-efficient and cost-effective than traditional reverse-osmosis systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalDesalination·DateSep 8, 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.

First-ever look inside a working lithium-ion battery

Using a neutron beam, researchers at Ohio State University track lithium atoms in real time as batteries charge and discharge. This technique, called neutron depth profiling, may help explain why rechargeable batteries lose capacity over time.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 8, 2014

To admit or not to admit: Variation in hospitalizations from ER costs billions

A new University of Michigan study found significant variation in hospital admissions for ER patients with common non-life-threatening conditions, resulting in estimated annual costs of $5 billion and $266 billion. The study analyzed data from 961 hospitals and 28.5 million emergency visits, revealing that some conditions had high rate...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 8, 2014

Light detector to revolutionize night vision technology

A team of researchers at Monash University has developed a light detector based on graphene that can detect light over an unusually broad range of wavelengths, including terahertz waves. This breakthrough could lead to inexpensive infrared cameras or night-vision goggles with unparalleled sensitivity and speed.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 8, 2014