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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 146


Page 146 of 402

Earth's extremes point the way to extraterrestrial life

Researchers explore Earth's most extreme lifeforms to predict what life could be like elsewhere in the universe. They suggest water-hydrogen peroxide mixtures for Mars-like environments and liquid hydrocarbons for Titan-like planets, with organisms adapting to frigid temperatures and slow metabolisms.

SourceWashington State University·JournalLife·DateAug 26, 2015

ORNL chemical sampling interface features simplicity, speed

A system developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory can identify and characterize solid or liquid samples in seconds, providing a valuable tool for material science, forensics, pharmaceuticals, biology, and chemistry. The device is self-cleaning, requires no sample preparation, and is cost-effective.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalRapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry·DateAug 26, 2015

Obesity-related causes of stillbirth detailed in Pitt analysis

A new University of Pittsburgh analysis found that obese women are more likely to experience stillbirths due to placental diseases and hypertension. The study suggests that monitoring these complications and promoting weight loss before pregnancy can reduce the risk of stillbirth.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateAug 26, 2015

Neurobiology -- tuning of timing in auditory axons

A team of researchers has found that variations in the morphology of auditory axons, particularly the length of internodes and diameter, impact the speed and precision of signal transmission. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about axon structure and function.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 26, 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.

LSU researchers conduct post-hurricane recovery analysis

LSU researchers analyzed the impact of CDBG-DR funds on housing, infrastructure, and economic development recovery since Katrina and Rita. The study found that investments led to increased solvency and population growth in parishes with higher disbursements, while also improving fiscal health and reducing debt-to-asset ratios.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateAug 26, 2015

New fungi behind emerging wheat disease

Scientists at Australian National University discovered three previously undiscovered fungi causing the disease, which affects Southern Queensland and South Australia's wheat crops. The finding provides growers with confidence in managing the disease, crucial for a $6 billion industry.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAustralasian Plant Pathology·DateAug 26, 2015

Playing adaptive sports linked to higher employment, economic impact

A study from the University of Houston found that playing an additional year of adaptive sport is associated with a 4% increase in employment likelihood every year for 10 years. This can lead to an estimated $40 million addition to the economy through household income if 2% of the working-age wheelchair population participates.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalDisability and Rehabilitation·DateAug 25, 2015
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.

Many parents unaware of e-cigarette dangers to children?

A new study at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found that nearly all parents who use e-cigarettes are not aware of the risks to their children, including lethal ingestion and skin exposure. The researchers emphasize the need for pediatricians to ask about nicotine use and discuss safe storage practices.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateAug 25, 2015

NASA sees Hurricane Loke moving north

Hurricane Loke is moving north in the Central Pacific, producing rough surf and large swells that will affect reefs and shorelines. The storm is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by Wednesday, August 26, as it moves towards the northwest.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 25, 2015

Promising target for new drugs found in pancreatic cancer cells

University of Houston researchers identify liver X receptors as a promising target for developing new pancreatic cancer treatments. The study, led by Chin-Yo Lin, shows that targeting these receptors can slow the growth of tumors and is expected to lead to the development of new drugs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Reviews Cancer·DateAug 25, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Drones used to track wildlife

Scientists at Australian National University have developed a world-first radio-tracking drone to locate radio-tagged wildlife. The system has successfully detected tiny radio transmitters and has been tested by tracking bettongs at the Mulligan's Flat woodland sanctuary.

SourceAustralian National University·DateAug 25, 2015

Is incense bad for your health?

A recent study found that incense smoke contains mutagenic properties, causing genetic mutations and potential cancers. Incense was compared to cigarette smoke in a comparison of indoor use, revealing surprising results.

SourceSpringer·JournalEnvironmental Chemistry Letters·DateAug 25, 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.

Lemon juice and human norovirus

A study by German Cancer Research Center discovered that citric acid from lemon juice can alter the morphology of norovirus particles, reducing their infectivity. The researchers found that citrate binds to specific proteins on the virus, preventing it from attaching to host cells.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalVirology·DateAug 25, 2015
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.

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Experimental post-exposure antiviral treatment may protect humans from Ebola virus

A case-series of eight British healthcare workers who received antiviral-based therapies after possible accidental exposure to Ebola virus in Sierra Leone did not develop the disease. The study suggests that post-exposure prophylaxis may be effective in preventing Ebola infection, and authors call for standardised guidelines to be deve...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateAug 25, 2015

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Atsani bow out

Tropical Cyclone Atsani transitioning into an extra-tropical low with potential for heavy rainfall in eastern Russia. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center issued its final bulletin on August 26, predicting landfall south of eastern Russia.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 25, 2015

Researchers study tall larkspur toxicity in cattle

Researchers found that a 1,102-pound steer can safely consume up to 2.8 pounds of fresh tall larkspur daily without severe poisoning. The study also identified the importance of non-MSAL-type alkaloids in determining toxicity potential.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateAug 25, 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.

Debut of the global mix-master

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current began its eastern flow through the Southern Ocean 30 million years ago, driven by the Tasmanian gateway's alignment with mid-latitude westerly wind bands. This massive ocean current transports heat and salt around the world, shaping regional climates.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalNature·DateAug 25, 2015

Optimal breastfeeding practices may help save infants' lives

Breastfeeding from 0-5 months significantly reduces infant mortality risk, with exclusively breastfed infants having a lower risk of dying compared to those who were not breastfed. Continued breastfeeding up to 23 months also lowers the risk of infant mortality.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateAug 25, 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.

Project in West Africa sees dramatic drop in TB death rates

A project in Togo saw a 10% drop in TB death rates by increasing the treatment success rate to 95%, while mortality dropped from 13% to 3%. The redesigned system improved coverage, quality, and patient participation, highlighting the importance of data analysis and skilled workforce.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality Improvement Reports·DateAug 25, 2015

NASA finds vegetation essential for limiting city warming effects

A new NASA study reveals that the presence of vegetation is crucial in mitigating urban heat island effects, which can raise temperatures by 1.9°C in urban areas compared to surrounding rural areas. The study found that replacing impervious surfaces with vegetation can reduce temperature differences by up to 1.3°C.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 25, 2015

Hepatitis A-like virus identified in seals

Researchers identified a new virus, phopivirus, in seals genetically similar to hepatitis A, suggesting it may have originated in animals. The discovery provides clues on the emergence of hepatitis A and highlights the importance of studying wildlife reservoirs of zoonotic viruses.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateAug 25, 2015

Gut feeling restored by growth outside the body

Researchers successfully joined two separate pieces of embryonic mouse intestine using growth supports, allowing nerve signals to pass through and promoting growth. The breakthrough could lead to treatment for conditions like short bowel syndrome, a condition causing damage to the bowel that prevents nutrient absorption.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine·DateAug 25, 2015

How TV's subliminal influence can affect women's perception of pregnancy, birth

A UC sociology study reveals that reality TV and fictional programs have a significant impact on pregnant women's expectations of pregnancy and birth. Women with lower educational attainment tend to view TV as an alternative to traditional childbirth education, while highly educated women frame it as entertainment for young children.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 25, 2015
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

'Targeted punishments' against countries could tackle climate change

New research suggests that targeted punishments could provide a path to international climate change cooperation. By devising rules for small groups of 'defectors' to focus pressure, cooperation can build up gradually, ultimately leading to collective action against climate change.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 25, 2015

A community of soil bacteria saves plants from root rot

Researchers found that a protective mix of root bacteria can prevent sudden wilt disease in wild tobacco plants. The right combination of soil microbiota is crucial for plant survival, and crop rotation plays a vital role in preventing the buildup of soil-borne diseases.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 25, 2015
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.

Study finds major lack of resources for rehab patients in Malawi

A study in Malawi found that patients with stroke and spinal cord injuries faced significant obstacles upon return home, including physical barriers and social exclusion. The lack of rehabilitation services after discharge has severe consequences for patients' mental health and ability to reintegrate into society.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Global Health·DateAug 25, 2015

Longer colonoscopies linked to lower cancer rate

A Veterans Affairs team found that longer-lasting colonoscopies are associated with lower cancer rates. Doctors with average withdrawal times of under six minutes had patients more than twice as likely to have cancer. Experts recommend focusing quality-improvement efforts on withdrawal times of under six minutes.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 25, 2015

How plant sensors detect pathogens

A team of scientists has discovered how a plant sensor detects pathogens, bringing unprecedented detail to the 'gene-for-gene' hypothesis. The study reveals that the strength of binding between the sensor and pathogen proteins correlates with the plant's response, opening up new strategies for engineering enhanced resistance.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·DateAug 25, 2015
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.

UT Dallas criminologist tackles perception of NFL players

A new study by UT Dallas refutes the notion that NFL players are more criminal than the general population. The research found that the overall arrest rate for the general population was nearly twice as high as the rate for NFL players from 2000 to 2013.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Criminal Justice·DateAug 25, 2015

Development of new class of photodetectors funded by US Air Force

Researchers have successfully created a new class of uncooled photodetectors that can operate at room temperature, overcoming limitations of existing inorganic detectors. These breakthrough devices will enable various industrial and scientific applications such as optical communications and chemical sensing.

SourceUniversity of Akron·DateAug 25, 2015

Record-high pressure reveals secrets of matter

Researchers have achieved record-high pressure to study osmium, finding that innermost electrons start interacting with each other due to extreme pressure. This phenomenon opens up new possibilities for discovering brand new states of matter.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature·DateAug 25, 2015

Water covers 70 percent of the Earth's surface, but only a fraction is fresh

The current issue of Technology and Innovation highlights the challenges of ensuring water security due to growing concerns over fresh water availability. Advances in analytical techniques, nanobiotechnologies, and monitoring methods are being explored to develop innovative solutions for water conservation and quality improvement.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateAug 25, 2015
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.

One dose or 2? Cholera vaccination strategies

A new modeling study suggests that a single dose of cholera vaccine could be as effective as the traditional two-dose regimen in preventing deaths. The researchers estimate that a one-dose campaign reaching half the population would have averted over 78,000 cases and prevented 738 deaths.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 25, 2015

Predicting who will murder his wife or his family

Researchers identified a similar profile among murderers of intimate partners and family members, including severe mental illness and few previous convictions. Early intervention is crucial to prevent these murders, which are often driven by jealousy or revenge, experts warn.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateAug 25, 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.

Something to crow about

Researchers found that New Caledonian crows use a combination of social learning and trial-and-error methods to acquire tool shapes. The birds observe another crow's actions, then mimic the end result, rather than copying specific actions, suggesting an alternative explanation for their cumulative technological culture.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalLearning & Behavior·DateAug 25, 2015

Foes can become friends on the coral reef

Seaweeds appear to protect coral from invasive sea stars by reducing predation and providing a physical barrier. This complex relationship highlights the intricate dynamics of ecosystems and has implications for coral reef conservation.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateAug 25, 2015

NASA looks at Tropical Storm Erika inside and outside

NASA's GPM and NOAA's GOES satellites provide insights into Tropical Storm Erika's rainfall patterns and cloud structure. The storm is expected to approach the Leeward Islands on Wednesday night, prompting a Tropical Storm Watch for several Caribbean islands.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 25, 2015

NASA sees Typhoon Goni cover southern half of Sea of Japan

Typhoon Goni covered the southern half of the Sea of Japan, with its center located near 35.3 North latitude and 131.0 East longitude. The storm was expected to weaken and become extra-tropical as it moved north, making landfall near Vladivostok, Russia on August 26.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 25, 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.

New Yorker cartoons reveal attitudes toward parenting

Researchers analyze New Yorker cartoons from 1925 to 2006 to show changing portrayals of children and child-rearing, with a shift from mixed attitudes to increasingly intense parental involvement. The study highlights the paradox of modern, privileged parenting, where parents may opt out due to high costs associated with childcare.

SourceIndiana University·DateAug 25, 2015

New optical method promises faster, more accurate diagnosis of breast cancer

Researchers at University of Illinois develop a data-based method to diagnose breast cancer using spatial light interference microscopy, promising fast and accurate results. The technique uses quantitative imaging parameters to analyze breast tissue lesions, overcoming limitations of manual inspection.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateAug 25, 2015