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Science News Archive September 2014 - Page 7


Page 7 of 34

America's top age beat reporters chosen for journalism fellowship

The Gerontological Society of America and New America Media have selected 19 journalists to cover aging issues, including elder abuse, financial security, and mental health. The fellows will convene during the GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting and develop major aging-focused stories or series.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateSep 25, 2014

Genes causing pediatric glaucoma contribute to future stroke

Research identifies two genes, FOXC1 and PITX2, that cause cerebral small vessel disease, a condition increasing stroke risk up to tenfold. Mutations lead to impaired vascular stability, ultimately resulting in long-term stroke risk.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 25, 2014

Risk of esophageal cancer decreases with height

Researchers found that taller individuals are less likely to develop esophageal cancer and its precursor, Barrett's esophagus. The study, which included data from 1,000 cases of esophageal cancer and twice as many cases of Barrett's esophagus, consistently demonstrated an inverse association between height and these conditions.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateSep 25, 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.

New study shows that yoga and meditation may help train the brain

Researchers found that long-term yoga and meditation practitioners can learn to control a computer with their minds faster and better than inexperienced participants. The study could lead to new treatments for people paralyzed or with neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateSep 25, 2014

Experts at LSTM use modelling approach to assess the effectiveness TB diagnostics

Experts at LSTM used a novel modelling approach to project the effects of new diagnostic methods and algorithms for TB in Tanzania. The integrated model compared the costs and effectiveness of different diagnostic options, identifying Xpert MTB/RIF as a cost-effective option with the potential to reduce the national burden of TB.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateSep 25, 2014

Innovative Stone Age tools were not African invention, say researchers

A new discovery of thousands of Stone Age tools has provided a major insight into human innovation 325,000 years ago. Researchers found that Levallois technology already existed in Armenia between 325,000 and 335,000 years ago, suggesting local populations developed it independently.

SourceRoyal Holloway, University of London·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 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.

Chemists recruit anthrax to deliver cancer drugs

Researchers have successfully delivered antibody mimics into cells using a disarmed version of anthrax toxin, offering a potential new approach for treating various diseases. The development demonstrates the first effective delivery of antibodies into cells, which could lead to novel drug treatments.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalChemBioChem·DateSep 25, 2014

New scientific review of genetically engineered feeds in livestock diets

A new scientific review of genetically engineered feeds in livestock diets concludes that feeding these crops has no impact on the health or productivity of animals. The review examines nearly 30 years worth of data from over 100 billion animals, revealing comparable performance and health between GE-fed and non-GE-fed animals.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateSep 25, 2014

Smallest-possible diamonds form ultra-thin nanothread

Researchers at Carnegie Institution successfully produce ultra-thin diamond nanothreads, exhibiting superior strength and stiffness compared to existing nanotubes and polymer fibers. The discovery has significant potential for various applications, including advanced materials and space technology.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 25, 2014

Researchers uncover structure of enzyme that makes plant cellulose

Purdue researchers have discovered the structure of the enzyme responsible for producing cellulose, a key breakthrough in understanding plant cell wall composition. The findings could lead to improved methods for breaking down plant materials and creating sustainable biofuels.

SourcePurdue University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateSep 25, 2014

Dunes reveal biodiversity secrets

Researchers found that environmental filtering is the main driver of plant diversity variation along resource gradients in ancient dunes. The study used a chronosequence of soils to test alternative theories and provided new insights into biodiversity.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 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.

Experts call for a moratorium on use of new internet domain .health

Health policy academics and clinicians warn of potential risks of new .health internet domain, citing lack of transparency and inadequate stakeholder participation. They recommend an immediate moratorium and the formation of an expert working panel to discuss governance and ensure universal access to quality health information online.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGlobalization and Health·DateSep 25, 2014

After watching disturbing video, CPAP usage soars

A pilot study using emotional videos has led to a significant increase in CPAP machine usage among patients with sleep apnea, with some users reporting up to 2 hours of additional therapy per night. The approach, which uses personalized videos to create a sense of urgency, resulted in sustained improvement after three months.

SourceMediaSource·DateSep 25, 2014

Agonizing rabies deaths can be stopped worldwide

A mass dog vaccination program can stop agonizing rabies deaths worldwide by targeting the virus's primary source: dogs. By vaccinating 70% of dogs in high-risk areas, transmission from dogs to humans can be broken, leading to a significant decline in human cases.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 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.

Stone Age site challenges old archaeological assumptions about human technology

A 325,000-year-old site in Armenia challenges old assumptions about human technological development by revealing the simultaneous use of two distinct technologies: biface and Levallois. The discovery highlights local innovation and flexibility rather than population expansion, suggesting that humans developed Levallois technology out o...

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 2014

Interstellar molecules are branching out

Researchers from Max Planck Institute and Cornell University detect iso-propyl cyanide, a branched carbon molecule, in a giant gas cloud called Sagittarius B2. The discovery opens a new frontier in the complexity of molecules found in regions of star formation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New EEG electrode set for fast and easy measurement of brain function abnormalities

A new, easy-to-use EEG electrode set was developed to quickly attach on patients, reducing electromagnetic interference and allowing rapid diagnosis of severe brain function abnormalities. The set consists of 16 hydrogel-coated electrodes placed on hair-free areas, making it suitable for emergency care and field conditions.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Neuroscience Methods·DateSep 24, 2014

Customer experience matters more when economy is strong, research shows

Researchers found that when the economy is strong, customers focus more on past experiences with service firms and pay attention to aspects like satisfaction and effort made by the firm. The study recommends service managers to prioritize improving customer experience during good economic times to maximize revenue gains.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalMarketing Science·DateSep 24, 2014

From rats to humans: Project NEUWalk closer to clinical trials

EPFL scientists have developed a therapy to help people with spinal cord injury walk again by controlling the limbs of a completely paralyzed rat in real-time. The technology uses electrical signals to stimulate nerves and restore movement control. Clinical trials may start as early as next summer using the new Gait Platform.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 24, 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.

Taking advantage of graphene defects

Researchers discovered graphene's ability to rectify electric current using artificial triangular holes, offering a new approach for security screening detectors. The study provides an analytical framework for estimating the ratchet effect, which could lead to terahertz radiation detection.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateSep 24, 2014

Sam Houston State study finds gang life is short-lived

A study at Sam Houston State University found that gang membership typically lasts around two years, with most youth joining between ages 10 and 16. The study also identified six pathways into and out of gangs, highlighting the need for targeted prevention and intervention programs.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Quantitative Criminology·DateSep 24, 2014

Wound healing response promotes breast cancer metastasis in postpartum mice

A study found that postpartum mice develop metastatic disease due to dying tumor cells triggering anti-inflammatory cytokines that promote wound healing. Mice lacking a receptor for macrophage clearance of dying cells did not develop metastasis, highlighting potential targets for limiting postpartum breast cancer severity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2014

Findings give hope to plant extract as possible lupus treatment

Researchers have found a promising plant-derived compound, CDDO, that may block both steps of lupus development and has no known side effects. The compound, originally derived from plants, could potentially eliminate the risks associated with current lupus treatments.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateSep 24, 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.

Memory slips may signal increased risk of dementia years later

Research suggests that people with memory issues without dementia are at higher risk of developing the disease. A 12-year study found nearly three times more likelihood of memory problems in those reporting changes, emphasizing the importance of taking such complaints seriously.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 24, 2014

New milestone in the search for water on distant planets

Researchers have detected water vapor and hydrogen on the exoplanet HAT P-11b, a planet about four times bigger than Earth. This discovery supports astronomers' ideas about planetary formation and suggests that small planets may be rich in heavy elements like oxygen.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 2014

New linguistic tools can predict your dialect characteristics

A new study predicts dialect features based on demographic characteristics and location using statistical modeling techniques. The researchers examined how speakers of Italian and Tuscan dialects referred to 170 different concepts, finding that geography and social factors influence language use.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateSep 24, 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.

Good news for young patients with a leukemia subtype associated with a poor prognosis

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that adjusting treatment based on early response to chemotherapy significantly boosts the survival of young patients with a poor-prognosis leukemia subtype associated with the Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study included 344 children and adolesc...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 24, 2014

Star Trekish, rafting scientists make bold discovery on Fraser River

A team of scientists led by Jeremy Venditti used oceanographic instruments to study flow through steep bedrock canyons on the Fraser River. They discovered a complicated flow field with high velocity flow plunging down canyon walls, resulting in greater flow force applied to the bed.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 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.

A look at Florida's charterboat-based recreational shark fishery

A University of Miami study found that most charter fishing captains in Florida have a strong conservation ethic towards sharks, with 82% practicing catch and release. However, hammerhead sharks are not suitable for catch-and-release methods and require immediate release to reduce mortality rates

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalFisheries·DateSep 24, 2014

Arabic tweets point to US influence as fuel for anti-Americanism

A study analyzing millions of Arabic-language tweets confirms high levels of anti-American sentiment, revealing that criticism of the US is consistent across various regions and issues. The research suggests a deep-seated dislike of American intervention and an unwillingness to give credit when US policies are beneficial.

SourcePrinceton University·DateSep 24, 2014

NCI/FDA lung cancer workshop leads to the innovatively designed clinical trials

The NCI/FDA workshop resulted in the development of two innovative clinical trials, Lung-MAP and ALCHEMIST, which employ a 'Master Protocol' approach to improve patient outcomes. These trials aim to accelerate the development of targeted therapies for lung cancer by integrating multiple sub-studies based on genomic profiles.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateSep 24, 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.

A wriggly solution to a first-world problem

Australian researchers successfully treated 12 participants with celiac disease using hookworms, increasing gluten tolerance by a factor of 60. The study suggests a potential new treatment for inflammatory diseases, including asthma and Crohn's disease.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 24, 2014

Modest acute changes in cardiac biomarkers and electrocardiogram findings following thoracic radiation therapy

Researchers found modest acute changes in cardiac biomarkers and electrocardiogram findings following thoracic radiation therapy, but no clinically significant cardiac events. The study suggests that longer follow-up and increased dose range may reveal the impact of radiation on late RT-related toxicity.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateSep 24, 2014

NASA sees the end of post-depression Fung-Wong

Tropical Depression Fung-Wong's clouds had cloud-top temperatures near -63F/-53C over Japan's northern Ryuku Islands. The depression moved to the northeast at 11 knots (12.6 mph/20.3 kph) before becoming an extra-tropical storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 24, 2014

How a single, genetic change causes retinal tumors in young children

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles discovered the origin of retinoblastoma tumors in young children, revealing a single genetic change in the RB1 gene. This finding holds promise for developing novel therapies and advancing understanding of cancer development.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 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.

Evolution of snake courtship and combat behavior

Researchers identified patterns in courtship and male-to-male combat behaviors across 70 snake species, revealing evolutionary relationships between behaviors. The study found that different clades developed unique behaviors, such as coiling without neck-raising and body-bridging, which replaced earlier toppling behavior.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2014

Better information about prenatal testing leads to fewer tests

A UCSF study found that educating pregnant women about their choices on prenatal genetic testing leads to a decrease in the number of tests. Women who received clear information and unbiased guidance were less likely to undergo diagnostic testing, scoring higher in knowledge of genetic testing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateSep 24, 2014

Clinical trial examined treatment for complicated grief in older individuals

A clinical trial found that a targeted treatment for complicated grief in older individuals was more effective than traditional depression therapy, with 70.5% symptom improvement compared to 32%. The new approach resolved grief complications and facilitated natural mourning, offering hope for millions of people affected by this debilit...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 24, 2014

UTHealth researchers to assess asthma risk in health care workers

Researchers at UTHealth will assess the asthma risk in healthcare workers in Texas over the last 10 years. The study aims to determine if changes in hospital practices and awareness have affected the prevalence of asthma among healthcare professionals.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateSep 24, 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.

Clear skies on exo-Neptune

Astronomers have detected water vapour and other molecules on HAT-P-11b, the smallest exoplanet known to harbor these compounds. The discovery is significant for its potential implications on understanding the atmospheres of smaller planets.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 2014

Are weak values quantum? Don't bet on it

Weak measurements aim to gain information from quantum systems by minimizing disturbance. However, researchers Joshua Combes and Christopher Ferrie found a classical analogy for the same process, casting doubt on its quantum nature.

SourcePerimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 24, 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.

Most metal-poor star hints at universe's first supernovae

Researchers found a star with extremely low iron content, which could be evidence of the universe's first supernovae. The star's unusual chemical composition supports the theory that massive stars formed in the early universe and exploded as supernovae.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 24, 2014