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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 135


Page 135 of 402

Ice sheets may be more resilient than thought, say Stanford scientists

Researchers found that global sea level during the Pliocene warm period was 30-44 feet higher than previously thought, but significantly lower than estimated. The study suggests that the East Antarctic Ice Sheet might be more resilient to climate change than previously assumed.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalGeology·DateSep 3, 2015

Study shows that teens lose sleep after change to daylight saving time

A new study finds that high school students lose an average of 32 minutes of sleep per night following the springtime change to daylight saving time. This leads to increased daytime sleepiness and decreased vigilance, posing a risk to teen drivers. The study suggests that this can further restrict their already limited sleep schedules.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateSep 3, 2015

UOG team improves understanding of Guam plant's pollination syndrome

The University of Guam research team used a unique glass tube setup to study fadang tree pollen settling velocity and theoretical distances of wind-borne pollen movement. The results show that fadang pollen can travel over 500 meters laterally before dropping one meter in elevation.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalHortScience·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Hubble survey unlocks clues to star birth in neighboring galaxy

Astronomers have found a similar percentage of newborn stars with specific masses in young clusters of the Andromeda galaxy compared to our own. This study, utilizing Hubble images and citizen scientist contributions, helps interpret distant galaxy light and understand star formation history.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 3, 2015

UNH research: Crop rotation boosts soil microbes, benefits plant growth

Research from UNH shows that crop rotations can increase soil microbial functions, improving plant growth and soil health. By increasing rotational diversity, farmers can promote agroecosystem sustainability and mitigate threats to food security and environmental quality.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalEcology Letters·DateSep 3, 2015

How to curb emissions? Put a price on carbon

A new policy article suggests that opening up access to power grids, ending fossil-fuel subsidies, and supporting renewable energy technologies can make wind and solar power cheaper. The authors argue that modernizing power grids and ensuring policies related to renewable energy are crucial for reducing emissions.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2015

Potential of disk-shaped small structures, coccoliths

Researchers discovered that coccoliths can modulate solar light, enhancing photosynthesis in microalgae. The study found that magnetically oriented coccoliths change light scattering, contributing to understanding how these structures control light.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 3, 2015

Growing up on a farm provides protection against asthma and allergies

Researchers at VIB discovered that exposure to farm dust reduces the severity of allergic reactions in mice. In humans, a deficiency in the protective protein A20 is found in those who suffer from allergies and asthma. The study paves the way for the development of an asthma vaccine.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalScience·DateSep 3, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Team decodes structure of protein complex active in DNA repair

A team of researchers has determined the structure of a protein complex involved in DNA damage repair, revealing its mechanism of action and potential as a therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases and cancer. The study's findings may enable the development of new drugs targeting this complex.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 3, 2015

Variations in cell programs control cancer and normal stem cells

Researchers discovered that cell programs controlling normal mammary gland stem cells differ from those regulating cancer stem cells, which arise in a distinct layer of tissue. This finding could lead to new cancer treatments by targeting the specific differences between normal and cancer cells.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2015

Using stellar 'twins' to reach the outer limits of the galaxy

Astronomers have developed a new technique to measure distances between stars with far greater precision than existing methods. By analyzing the spectra of identical 'stellar twins', researchers can determine the distance between two stars without relying on models, which are often inaccurate.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 3, 2015

New strategy to lower blood sugar may help in diabetes treatment

Researchers at WashU Medicine developed a new strategy to slow glucose production in the liver, which can lead to more effective drugs for type 2 diabetes. The approach involves inhibiting a protein involved in making glucose, demonstrating potential for treating millions of people affected by the condition.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 3, 2015

Unraveling the Web

A new video game called VERITAS aims to improve deception detection skills by training players to identify heuristics and detect deception through questioning. The game, developed by UCSB researcher Norah Dunbar, is designed for law enforcement and intelligence communities.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Before nature selects, gene networks steer a course for evolution

Researchers explore gene network that guides limb development in mammals, finding it varies little in early stages and more widely later on. This pattern makes it easier for evolution to tweak rather than remodel limb structure.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 3, 2015

Laughter, then love: Study explores why humor is important in romantic attraction

Research suggests that humor plays a crucial role in attracting romantic partners. Men who can make their partner laugh are more likely to be interested in dating them. On the other hand, studies found no connection between humor and intelligence. The study proposes that shared laughter is a stronger indicator of romantic interest than...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateSep 3, 2015

Mutation protects plants against harmful explosive, TNT

Researchers identified a mutation in Arabidopsis thaliana plants that allows them to break down the toxic and persistent explosive TNT. The MDHAR6-mutant plants exhibit enhanced shoot and root biomass when grown in TNT-treated soil, rendering TNT less toxic.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 3, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New findings move flexible lighting technology toward commercial feasibility

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology have made significant advancements in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) for solid-state lighting. The team developed flexible electrodes using graphene, conducting polymers, and silver nanowires, which demonstrated good electrical, optical, and mechanical performance.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateSep 3, 2015

Making nanowires from protein and DNA

A Caltech team has successfully created synthetic structures made of both protein and DNA, opening up numerous applications. The hybrid material combines the versatility of proteins and the programmability of DNA, enabling new possibilities for medical treatments and industrial applications.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2015

D.C. needle exchange program prevented 120 new cases of HIV in 2 years

A study published in AIDS and Behavior found that the D.C. needle exchange program prevented 70% of newly diagnosed HIV cases and saved an estimated $44 million over two years by reducing the need for costly treatment. The program also provided access to health services, including HIV testing and addiction treatment.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Microscopic animals inspire innovative glass research

Researchers at the University of Chicago have discovered a new type of glass by studying the properties of microscopic animals, including tardigrades. The team found that these creatures can create glassy molecules under extreme conditions, leading to potential breakthroughs in electronic devices and material science.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 3, 2015

Clues from ancient Maya reveal lasting impact on environment

Researchers found that ancient Maya activity contributed to environmental decline and continues to influence today's conditions. They identified six stratigraphic markers indicating large-scale change in climate, vegetation, hydrology, and lithosphere.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Shared habitats

Researchers found that two common antibiotic-resistant bacteria coexist peacefully in the gut, occupying distinct niches that satisfy their metabolic needs. Fecal transplants from healthy donors effectively cleared one pathogen, but not the other, highlighting potential for targeted therapies to eradicate specific superbugs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 3, 2015

Not on my watch: Chimp swats film crew's drone

A chimpanzee at the Royal Burgers' Zoo in the Netherlands deliberately used a stick as a weapon to bring down an aerial drone. This incident highlights the apes' ability to plan ahead and utilize tools in innovative ways, even without explicit training.

SourceSpringer·JournalPrimates·DateSep 3, 2015

Novel genes found in inflammatory bowel disease under Age 5

Researchers discovered rare gene variants associated with a severe form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects children under age five. The findings suggest that these genes play important roles in immune function and may be linked to primary immunodeficiency disorders.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 3, 2015

Huddling rats behave as a 'super-organism'

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that rodents behave like a self-organizing system when huddling together to regulate their temperature. This allows the group to better adapt to changing temperatures, with individual behaviors improving the ability of the whole group to regulate its temperature.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

The science of stereotyping: Challenging the validity of 'gaydar'

A new study challenges the validity of 'gaydar', a perceived ability to infer sexual orientation from appearance. Researchers find that stereotyping is inaccurate and harmful, limiting opportunities for marginalized groups and promoting prejudice.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·DateSep 3, 2015

Rapid testing for TB aims to reduce drug resistance, lower mortality rate

Researchers have developed three new rapid tests for diagnosing drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), which can be completed in as little as a day. The tests were found to be accurate in detecting resistance to most anti-TB drugs, with the molecular techniques showing superior performance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2015

Attorneys in civil courts make bigger impact working the system than knowing the law

A new study suggests that lawyers' deep knowledge of law has little impact on civil court cases. Instead, the difference lies in their ability to assist with procedures, navigate relationships, and phrase key phrases. This expertise can lead to better outcomes for those representing themselves.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Metallic gels produce tunable light emission

Researchers at MIT have developed a family of materials that can emit light of precisely controlled colors and respond to external conditions. The materials, made from rare-earth elements and polymers, show promise for detecting chemical and biological compounds, mechanical changes, and thermal conditions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 3, 2015

California rising

A study by UC Santa Barbara scientist Alex Simms has found that the Pacific coast of North America is not uplifting as rapidly as previously thought. The researchers recalculated uplift rates for California and other areas, applying a correction for glacio-isostatic adjustment, which affects ocean levels due to past ice sheets.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateSep 3, 2015

Beyond species counts: Using evolutionary history to inform conservation

A recent study investigates multiple phylogenetic diversity metrics and discusses their role in preserving biodiversity. The study highlights the challenges of calculating these metrics due to data availability, but also notes that as more sequence data are generated, accurate calculations will become increasingly routine.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateSep 3, 2015

Aspirin could hold the key to supercharged cancer immunotherapy

Researchers have found that combining aspirin with immunotherapy can slow cancer growth and unleash the immune system's full power. By stopping the production of PGE2, a molecule that dampens down the immune response, COX inhibitors like aspirin may lift the protective barrier around tumors, making cancer more susceptible to treatment

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalCell·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Study finds increased risk of MGUS in Vietnam Vets exposed to Agent Orange

A study published in JAMA Oncology found that Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange have a higher prevalence of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a precursor to multiple myeloma. The study suggests an association between Agent Orange exposure and the development of plasma cell disorders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateSep 3, 2015

Extra hour of screen time per day associated with poorer GCSE grades

Research from University of Cambridge found that extra hour of daily screen time in Year 10 is associated with 9.3 fewer GCSE points at age 16, while pupils doing an extra hour of homework and reading performed significantly better.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateSep 3, 2015

SA fossil is the long-awaited link to the evolution of turtles

A 260-million-year-old fossil species, Eunotosaurus africanus, provides crucial information into the origins of turtles. The study reveals that early turtles had a quicker bite than modern ones, with the skull of Eunotosaurus showing diapsid characteristics, challenging the long-held notion of turtles being an ancient reptile lineage.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Girls and boys with autism differ in behavior, brain structure

Researchers found significant gender differences in the severity of repetitive and restricted behaviors in girls with autism compared to boys. The study also identified distinct brain structure differences between boys and girls with autism, particularly in motor regions.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalMolecular Autism·DateSep 3, 2015

'Democratic peace' may not prevent international conflict

Researchers at Ohio State University challenge the widely-held theory that democracies are less likely to go to war with each other. Their new technique and model accurately predicted international conflict five and ten years in advance, outperforming existing models. The study highlights the importance of economic trade relationships ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2015

New role for an old protein: Cancer causer

A team of researchers has identified a new role for the RAB35 protein in cancer development, finding that it stimulates key growth-control pathways and can transform normal cells into cancerous ones. The study suggests that dysregulated membrane trafficking may play an important role in oncogenesis.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalScience·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Could more intensive farming practices benefit tropical birds?

A study in the Chocó-Andes of Colombia found that intensive farming practices lead to a loss of more than 650 million years of evolutionary history in bird species. Land-sparing approaches, which protect larger blocks of natural habitat, are recommended as a more effective way to preserve biodiversity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 3, 2015

Babies benefit from parenting classes even before birth

A series of parenting classes, Family Foundations, has been shown to reduce parental stress, depression, and anxiety, while improving parenting quality and long-term child outcomes. Participation in the program was linked to more optimal birth weight and shorter hospital stays for mothers at risk.

SourcePenn State·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateSep 3, 2015

In analyzing a scene, we make the easiest judgments first

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology suggests that the brain's prioritization of scenic categories may not be as complex as previously thought. Researchers found that people tend to make the easiest distinctions first, rather than following a predetermined hierarchy.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 3, 2015

Increased odds for type 2 diabetes after prenatal exposure to Ukraine famine of 1932-33

Researchers found a strong link between prenatal exposure to the Ukrainian Famine of 1932-33 and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood. The study, which included over 43,000 cases of type 2 diabetes, suggests that early gestation is a critical period for the development of long-term health outcomes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateSep 3, 2015
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 kidney injury during combat affects the long-term health of today's soldiers

Among 51 military service members who experienced severe acute kidney injury, 88% were due to blasts or projectiles, and 22% died within 60 days. Most survivors regained normal kidney function, but some developed chronic kidney disease or proteinuria, highlighting the need for long-term monitoring.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 3, 2015

Historical data hold secrets of 1 of UK's favorite fish

Scientists analyzed UK fisheries survey logbooks from the 1930s to 1950s, finding that cod diet and populations were affected by environmental conditions. The study contributes to understanding climate change and variability, providing insights into fish stocks and the environment over the past century.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 3, 2015

Customizing 3-D printing

Researchers created a new system called 'Fab Forms' that automatically generates visual models for users to modify. The system uses a wide range of values to calculate geometries and store results, allowing users to test designs in real time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 3, 2015

Pollution dispersion in cities improved by trees, research shows

Researchers from the University of Leicester found that trees increase turbulence and reduce road traffic emissions by 7%, improving air quality for pedestrians. This study highlights the importance of urban planning decisions incorporating trees to benefit both public health and environment.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateSep 3, 2015
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.

Finding a way forward in the fight against prion disease

Researchers have found that two bile acids, ursodeoxycholic acid and tauroursodeoxycholic acid, can slow the progression of prion disease when given early in the disease process. These compounds bind to proteins causing disease and prevent them from spreading.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of Virology·DateSep 3, 2015

Multi-million pound project to use nanotechnology to improve safety

The University of Southampton has been awarded a £3m grant to bring together top researchers to explore new nanotechnology applications for enhanced safety at sea, on land and in the air. The project will support over 50 PhD students in interdisciplinary research projects, providing training and building technical capacity.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateSep 3, 2015