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Science News Archive September 2014 - Page 31


Page 31 of 34

Researchers demonstrate direct brain-to-brain communication in human subjects

A team of neuroscientists and robotics engineers has demonstrated direct brain-to-brain communication in humans, transmitting information via the internet between two human subjects separated by 5,000 miles. The study used advanced precision neuro-technologies to directly transmit a thought from one person to another without them havin...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2014

Scientists discover how to 'switch off' autoimmune diseases

Researchers at the University of Bristol have made a breakthrough in understanding how cells convert from attacking healthy tissue to protecting against disease. This discovery could lead to the development of a new treatment approach using antigen-specific immunotherapy, which may improve the lives of millions worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 3, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Penn study: Sepsis patients fare better in hospitals with higher case volumes

A new study from Penn Medicine found that patients with sepsis who are treated at high-volume hospitals have a 36% increase in their odds of inpatient survival compared to those treated at lower-volume hospitals. The study suggests that regionalized severe sepsis care centers may improve outcomes for critically ill patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 3, 2014

New deep sea mushroom-shaped organisms discovered

Scientists have identified two new species of sea-dwelling, mushroom-shaped organisms in the deep sea. The organisms, belonging to the family Dendrogrammatidae, share characteristics with ancient life forms and potentially belong to the Ctenophora or Cnidaria phyla.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2014

Genetic 'hotspot' linked to endometrial cancer aggressiveness

Scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center have discovered genetic mutations in a subset of endometrial cancer patients that are associated with a more lethal form of the disease. The identification of these mutations could lead to the development of targeted treatments and improved patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 3, 2014

Mouse studies advance treatment for common eye diseases

A team of researchers has identified a new target for treatment of common eye diseases, including wet macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema. Activating a biochemical pathway that suppresses VEGF's effects may offer a safer alternative to current treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 3, 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.

Newly identified galactic supercluster is home to the Milky Way

The Milky Way galaxy is part of a new, massive galactic supercluster called Laniakea, which spans 500 million light-years and contains 100,000 galaxies. The discovery clarifies the boundaries of our local Universe and provides new insights into the motion of galaxies.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2014

UTHealth researchers gain insights into severe form of dwarfism

Researchers at UTHealth discovered a potential treatment window for pseudoachondroplasia by creating genetically engineered mice with the human COMP gene mutation. They found that administering certain medications at age 2 could reduce damage to chondrocyte cells in the growth plate, offering new hope for this disorder.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateSep 3, 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.

How much gravity is enough?

A new study suggests that the reason for astronauts falling on the lunar surface might be due to insufficient gravity, which affects perception of 'up'. The study found that a 15% gravity level is needed to influence orientation judgment, close to what's found on the moon.

SourceYork University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2014

NIH-led scientists discover HIV antibody that binds to novel target on virus

Researchers have identified a new vulnerability in the HIV armor that a vaccine could exploit, with an antibody called 35O22 preventing 62% of known strains from infecting cells. The discovery suggests it may be easier to elicit this antibody through vaccination compared to other broadly neutralizing antibodies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2014

Study shows cellular RNA can template DNA repair in yeast

Scientists have discovered that cellular RNA can be used to repair DNA breaks in yeast, providing a novel mechanism of genetic recombination. This process reveals the existence of a new way for cells to maintain their genome stability, which could potentially lead to new treatments for genetic diseases.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 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.

Innovative algorithm spots interactions lethal to cancer

Researchers have developed an innovative algorithm that identifies synthetic lethal interactions in cancer, enabling personalized treatment and predicting patient prognosis. The study's findings show promise for repurposing existing drugs to target specific cancer types.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCell·DateSep 3, 2014

Widely used depression drug associated with dental implant failure

A retrospective cohort study found that SSRIs were associated with an increased risk of osseointegrated implant failure. The study revealed a significant association between SSRI use and higher failure rates, with small implant diameters, bone augmentation, and smoking habits also linked to increased failure risk.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateSep 3, 2014

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Global epidemic of diabetes threatens to jeopardise further progress in tuberculosis control

A new series published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology finds that the growing global diabetes epidemic is hampering progress in controlling and eliminating tuberculosis. With over 1 million cases annually, diabetes-associated TB cases are expected to offset the present downward trend in global TB cases by 8% or more by 2035.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateSep 3, 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.

Breast vs. bottle feeding in rhesus monkeys

Infant rhesus monkeys receiving different diets early in life develop distinct immune systems that persist months after weaning. Breast-fed macaques had more memory T cells and T helper 17 cells, which are known to fight Salmonella and other pathogens.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 3, 2014

Peptoid nanosheets at the oil-water interface

Scientists create two-dimensional biomimetic materials with customizable properties, forming at an oil-water interface. The new development enables designing peptoid nanosheets of increasing structural complexity for various applications.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2014

Seizures and sudden death: When SUMO 'wrestles' potassium channels

A new animal model reveals that SENP2 deficiency leads to seizures and sudden death due to hyper-SUMOylation of potassium channels. This finding may lead to new treatment opportunities for SUDEP, which affects epilepsy patients at a rate 20-fold higher than the general population.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNeuron·DateSep 3, 2014

'Drink responsibly' messages in alcohol ads promote products, not public health

A new study found that most alcohol ads in US magazines from 2008-2010 used 'drink responsibly' messages to promote products, not provide clear warnings about the risks of excessive drinking. The ads failed to convey basic public health information, and instead often contradicted scenes depicted in the ads.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateSep 3, 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.

Could a protein be linked to heart attacks?

Scientists at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute have discovered a connection between elevated PCSK9 levels and acute heart attacks in patients. Elevated PCSK9 levels were found in blood samples from patients who had experienced a heart attack, but not in those who had never had one or had recovered from a previous attack.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa Heart Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2014

E-cigarettes may promote illicit drug use and addiction

Research suggests that e-cigarettes with nicotine can alter brain biochemistry and prime users to respond to other substances. This could lead to increased risk of addiction to marijuana and cocaine among adolescents and young adults.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 3, 2014

Biodiversity in the balance

A new study explores how biodiversity is developed and maintained, challenging a long-held theory on ecological niches. Researchers found that species can co-exist by reacting differently to resource fluctuations, but this mechanism may not be evolutionarily stable.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2014

Changing temperature powers sensors in hard-to-reach places

Researchers have created a power harvester that uses natural fluctuations in temperature and pressure to power sensors, enabling them to detect water leaks or structural deficiencies in areas with limited access. The device can harness energy from even slight changes in air conditioning temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateSep 3, 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.

Polyester clothes stink after exercise; cotton, not so much

Research published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that polyester clothes smell worse than cotton after exercise due to bacteria growth. Bacteria like micrococci thrive on polyester surfaces, breaking down sweat and hormones into odor-causing molecules.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateSep 3, 2014

LA BioMed researcher honored for research paper

Dr. Rowan Chlebowski, a leading expert in women's health, has been recognized by the North American Menopause Society for his groundbreaking research on estrogen alone and joint symptoms. His work has significantly impacted clinical use of menopausal hormone therapy worldwide.

SourceLA BioMed·DateSep 3, 2014

Team develops new, inexpensive method for understanding earthquake topography

Researchers developed a new system using high-resolution topography models and structure from motion to study active faults and their role in earthquakes. The method produces comparable quality data at lower costs, enabling geologists to analyze prehistoric ruptures and surface rupture formed during earthquakes.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateSep 3, 2014

Airline pilots, cabin crews have higher incidence of melanoma

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies found that airline pilots and cabin crews have a higher incidence of melanoma, with a combined standardized incidence ratio of 2.21 for any flight-based occupation. This increased risk is attributed to exposure to UV radiation during flights.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateSep 3, 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.

Galapagos invasion is global warning

A new study reveals nearly half of Galapagos Island's canopy is comprised of non-native trees, shrubs, and grasses, competing with native species for resources. The research provides a map and database to help managers prioritize invasive species control efforts.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateSep 3, 2014

NASA sees Tropical Storm Norbert affecting Mexico's west coast

Tropical Storm Norbert is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to Mexico's west coast, with tropical storm conditions forecast for La Paz to Santa Fe by Thursday night. The storm is currently located near the southern tip of Baja California and is moving northwestward at 8 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 3, 2014

Natura 2000 could do a great deal more for nature protection

The European Union's Natura 2000 network has a positive impact on maintaining biodiversity, but lacks connections between protected areas. The researchers recommend establishing minimum standards for conservation in these areas to improve species migration and genetic stability.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·DateSep 3, 2014

Is a gluten-free diet enough to control the complications of celiac disease?

A new study reveals that a lifelong gluten-free diet may not be enough to control the complications of celiac disease. Researchers found that patients with celiac disease may experience metabolic disorders and functional abnormalities due to inflammation, which can lead to malnutrition and impaired glucose metabolism.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·DateSep 3, 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.

A 'clear' choice for clearing 3-D cell cultures

Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to clear 3-D cell cultures, allowing for clearer imaging and analysis of neural tissues. The ClearT2 method works within 1.5 hours and preserves the size of the tissue, making it ideal for studying neural growth and development.

SourceBrown University·JournalTissue Engineering·DateSep 3, 2014

Unplanned births out-of-hospital increases risk of infant mortality

Research finds young multiparous women and those living in remote areas are at greatest risk of unplanned deliveries, which may increase infant mortality. The study suggests that limited access to proper medical care contributes to the increased risk.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateSep 3, 2014

Can sleep loss affect your brain size?

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found a link between sleep difficulties and rapid brain volume decline in adults. The research, which included 147 participants aged 20-84, revealed that poor sleep quality was associated with faster declines in brain regions including frontal, temporal, and parietal areas.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 3, 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.

Lead and cadmium found in some chocolate bought in Brazil

A study by Solange Cadore and colleagues found that dark chocolates in Brazil contained high levels of lead and cadmium. The researchers tested 30 commercial samples and found that the highest amounts of these metals were present in dark chocolate products, posing a health risk to children who consume them.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateSep 3, 2014

So... do you know what is in your water?

Researchers at Virginia Tech find that 50% of the population can't detect high levels of manganese in water, leading to potential health risks. The study's findings highlight the importance of considering water safety not only in tap water but also in humidified air.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateSep 3, 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.

Study links healthy sleep duration to less sick time from work

A study published in the journal Sleep found that sleeping 7 to 8 hours per night is associated with the lowest risk of absence from work due to sickness. The optimal sleep duration was between 7 and 8 hours, with shorter or longer sleep durations increasing the risk of work absences.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateSep 3, 2014

Are rising health care costs inevitable?

A new study suggests that focusing on improving utilization rates and quality outcomes could help reduce US healthcare expenditures. Researchers analyzed Medicaid and commercial insurance claims in Vermont to evaluate the impact of patient-centered medical homes on inpatient services and cost of care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateSep 3, 2014

Enjoying the possibility of defeat

A study by Sami Abuhamdeh and colleagues found that players' enjoyment of games is linked to suspense and uncertainty, not just winning. Participants preferred playing games with close margins over those with predictable outcomes. This suggests that games with unpredictable outcomes can be more engaging and enjoyable for some players.

SourceSpringer·JournalMotivation and Emotion·DateSep 3, 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.

Penn study demonstrates wearable sensors to detect firearm use

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania demonstrates the feasibility of using low-cost wearable inertial sensors to detect firearm usage with over 99% accuracy. The technology has the potential to enhance deterrence and detection of firearm use in community-supervised populations.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2014

Study finds wide gap in compensation from '07 South Korean oil spill

Researchers found a significant gap between the economic loss claimed by residents and the compensation received after the Hebei Spirit oil spill. Only 11 percent of the claims were approved for compensation. The study highlights the need for better consideration of social and ecological impacts in oil spill compensation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·DateSep 3, 2014

Nature or nurture? It's all about the message

A new study from Michigan State University found that messages about intelligence can immediately impact brain activity, making people more willing to work hard. The research suggests that the human brain is receptive to the message that intelligence comes from environment, regardless of its accuracy.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBiological Psychology·DateSep 3, 2014

UNH survey: Milk prices top concern of Northeastern organic dairy farmers

A survey of Northeastern organic dairy farms found that 85% ranked a steady, fair milk price as their top challenge. The cost of organic mixed grain feed has increased substantially, leading to declining profit margins for farmers. This is the first study to assess the research and educational needs of organic dairy farmers in the region.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateSep 3, 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.

Why HIV patients develop dementia

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum found that HIV-infected cells activate specific immune cells in the brain, leading to chronic inflammation and neuronal cell death. This discovery may help develop biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalExperimental Neurology·DateSep 3, 2014

Leaky gut -- A source of non-AIDS complications in HIV-positive patients

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have found that a leaky gut is the underlying cause of non-AIDS complications in HIV-positive patients. The study, published in PLOS Pathogens, reveals that bacterial products seep out of the colon and trigger inflammation throughout the body.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 3, 2014