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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 171


Page 171 of 402

Molecular spies to fight cancer

Scientists have successfully tested a new tumor diagnosis method that uses molecular spies to detect diseased cells and visualize tumors. The method, which combines antibody-based detection with pre-targeting technology, has the potential to improve cancer treatment by using internal radiation.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalChemical Science·DateAug 3, 2015

New method reveals hidden population of regulatory molecules in cells

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have developed a new RNA sequencing technique that reveals an abundance of modified fragments derived from transfer RNA molecules in both yeast and human cells. This discovery opens up a rapidly growing area of RNA research, increasing the detection of transfer RNA fragments by three-fold.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 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.

Volcanic bacteria take minimalist approach to survival

Scientists have discovered that a strain of bacteria can survive without traditional nutrients by harnessing trace gases like hydrogen from the air. This breakthrough reveals the 'minimalist approach' to survival used by these microorganisms in extreme environments.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2015

Canadian study sheds surprising light on the causes of cerebral palsy

A Canadian study found that 10% of children with cerebral palsy have copy number variations affecting genes deemed clinically relevant. This discovery could lead to the integration of genomic analyses into diagnostic assessments for cerebral palsy, providing new insights and treatment options.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 2015

From cameras to computers, new material could change how we work and play

Researchers at Northeastern University have developed a new material that exhibits magnetic, optical, and electrical properties, including thermal sensitivity. The material, known as 2D-BNCO, has the potential to be used in various applications such as high-resolution camera arrays, photo detectors, and atomically thin transistors.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 3, 2015
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.

Study calculates the speed of ice formation

The study provides insight into the mechanism of water transitioning from a liquid to a crystalline solid. It also explores the origin of two different crystalline shapes that ice can take at ambient pressure, shedding light on why cubic ice is favored over hexagonal ice during initial stages of nucleation.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2015

How the finch changes its tune

Researchers have discovered a neurological mechanism that explains how songbirds refine and alter their songs as adults, shedding light on the human brain's learning complex motor skills. The finding may have long-term implications for treating neurological conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 3, 2015

BrightFocus Foundation announces research grant recipients for 2015

BrightFocus Foundation has awarded $11 million in research grants to 58 scientists worldwide. The grants focus on treatments for age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, with a emphasis on early detection, disease progression, and potential interventions.

SourceBrightFocus Foundation·DateAug 3, 2015

Artificial blood vessels become resistant to thrombosis

Researchers from ITMO University created a vascular graft coating that prevents clot formation, ensuring unobstructed blood flow. The coating, which can be applied to any type of implant, uses a porous shell to release medication and prevent the growth of crystals or other unwanted substances.

SourceITMO University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 3, 2015

Residential location affects pregnant women's likelihood of smoking

A new study from Rice University finds that living in areas with lower socio-economic resources but higher social acceptability of smoking increases the likelihood of pregnant women smoking. Counties with higher socio-economic status have lower odds of women smoking during pregnancy, while neighboring counties' smoking prevalence signi...

SourceRice University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateAug 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.

High academic stress linked to increased illness, injuries among college football players

Researchers found that college football players are 3.19 times more likely to get injured during high-stress academic weeks, such as midterms or finals, compared to low-academic stress weeks. The study suggests that coaches and trainers can accommodate practices accordingly to minimize the risk of injuries.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research·DateAug 3, 2015

Punctuating messages encoded in human genome with transposable elements

Recent study finds that Mammalian-wide Interspersed Repeats (MIRs) serve as genetic landmarks to target regulatory mechanisms, coordinating gene expression in cells. Boundary elements, encoded by MIRs, help establish the geography of genome packaging, controlling timing and extent of gene expression.

SourceAelan Cell Technologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2015

Vaccine with virus-like nanoparticles effective treatment for RSV, study finds

Researchers at Georgia State University developed a vaccine containing virus-like nanoparticles that induces long-term protection against RSV. The study found that mice vaccinated with these particles showed no severe pulmonary disease and lower levels of inflammatory markers after infection.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalInternational Journal of Nanomedicine·DateAug 3, 2015

Quantum states in a nano-object manipulated using a mechanical system

Researchers have successfully coherently manipulated an electron spin embedded in a diamond resonator using a mechanical oscillating system. The discovery enables fast spin oscillation and precise measurement, making it suitable for highly sensitive sensors and potentially revolutionizing quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 3, 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.

NYU scientists bring order, and color, to microparticles

New York University researchers have developed a method to prompt microparticles to form ordered structures, opening the door for improved materials used in consumer products. The technique, centered on DNA-coated colloids, allows for the creation of new compounds with unique properties.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 3, 2015

Internet accessibility an important factor in government transparency

Researchers found that county governments in densely populated urban areas are more transparent on their websites if citizens have good Internet access. The study identified factors contributing to government transparency, including internet access, education level, poverty level, minority populations and population density.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalState and Local Government Review·DateAug 3, 2015

Nature: Compact optical data transmission

Researchers at KIT created a 12.5-micrometer-long Mach-Zehnder modulator that converts digital signals into optical signals at speeds of up to 108 gigabits per second, promising a solution for data centers' power consumption and speed limits.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature·DateAug 3, 2015

Engineering a better 'do: Purdue researchers are learning how

Purdue researchers are working to learn precisely how much heat to apply and how frequently to use heat treatment for a given hair type without destroying it. The team has developed a prototype system that simulates a flat iron passing over hair, using an infrared microscope to study the behavior of heat on different hair types.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 3, 2015

Waiving Medicare's 3-day rule lessens hospital stay

A new study finds that waiving the 3-day rule in Medicare Advantage plans results in shorter hospital stays, with a net difference of 0.7 fewer days on average, and may lead to cost savings for these plans without compromising patient outcomes.

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 3, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Further evidence of genetic key to deadliest form of skin cancer

Scientists have uncovered five new common genetic risk factors for melanoma and confirmed two others, establishing the role of telomeres in its development. Skin pigmentation is also a key genetic determinant, emphasizing the importance of sun protection for individuals with pale skin and many moles.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 3, 2015

When farm to table means crossing international borders

A new study finds that US consumers prefer to buy meat labeled as originating from the US due to perceptions of safety and taste. However, retailer-provided information about equivalent standards in other countries can increase acceptance of international products.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateAug 3, 2015

Greenhouse gases' millennia-long ocean legacy

A new study warns that continued carbon dioxide emission trends would leave a lasting impact on the deep ocean, with acidification and warming posing significant threats to marine life. Removing CO2 from the atmosphere through Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) strategies may not be effective in reversing these effects.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 3, 2015

New forensic ID technology introduced: Fingerprint Molecular Identification

ArroGen Group's Fingerprint Molecular Identification (FMID) technology analyzes chemical residues on fingerprints to reveal a suspect's gender, nicotine status, and exposure to explosives or drugs. This non-invasive process will empower law enforcement investigations with indisputable scientific evidence.

SourceBarry Teater, Self-employed PR consultant·DateAug 3, 2015

Surprising results casts new light on the free radical theory of aging

Researchers at the Buck Institute found that increased free radicals in mice accelerated wound healing in young animals but led to thin skin and poor wound healing as they aged. This study sheds light on current discrepancies regarding the role of free radicals in the aging process.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 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.

CO2 removal cannot save the oceans -- if we pursue business as usual

A new study shows that carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere will not compensate for soaring emissions, even if atmospheric CO2 concentration is restored to pre-industrial levels. This would lead to ocean acidification and threatening marine life forms.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 3, 2015

Yo-yo dieting not associated with increased cancer risk

A comprehensive study by the American Cancer Society found no association between repeated cycles of intentional weight loss and cancer incidence in men or women. The research suggests that people should be encouraged to try to lose weight despite potential regain, as it may have benefits beyond just weight management.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateAug 3, 2015

Web interventions for alcohol misuse

Researchers found limited evidence that web-based interventions reduced alcohol consumption in adults and college students who screened positive for hazardous alcohol use. Higher intensity interventions with human support are suggested to have greater benefits.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 3, 2015

Ergonomics in Design special issue 'Combating the Sedentary Workplace' just released

The July special issue of Ergonomics in Design examines the health and safety effects of the sedentary workplace, exploring alternatives to sitting at work and proposed workplace design solutions. The research highlights key factors that facilitate successful office design and discusses barriers to implementing active workplaces.

SourceHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society·JournalErgonomics in Design The Quarterly of Human Factors Applications·DateAug 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.

'Brain training' app may improve memory and daily functioning of people with schizophrenia

A brain training iPad game has been shown to improve the memory of patients with schizophrenia, enabling them to function better in their daily lives. The study found significant improvements in episodic memory and global functioning, suggesting a potential therapeutic tool for managing the condition.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateAug 2, 2015

Want to boost your toddler's development? Put a toy chicken on your head!

A University of Sheffield study found that parents' joking and pretending with their children as young as 16 months old helps them develop essential life skills. By picking up on parental cues, toddlers learn to distinguish between joke and pretend intentions, leading to improved cognitive abilities and creative thinking.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalCognitive Science·DateAug 2, 2015

Brain teaser: 3-D printed 'tissue' to help combat disease

Researchers at ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science develop a 6-layered structure incorporating neural cells, mimicking brain tissue. The breakthrough enables important insights into brain function and provides an experimental test bed for new drugs and electroceuticals.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science·JournalBiomaterials·DateAug 2, 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.

New design brings world's first solar battery to performance milestone

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed the world's first aqueous solar flow battery, which achieves a 20% energy savings over traditional lithium-iodine batteries. The new design combines a solar cell and a battery into a single device using a water-based electrolyte and a solid sheet solar panel.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 1, 2015

Childhood cancer cells drain immune system's batteries

Researchers have discovered that neuroblastoma cells produce a molecule called 'arginase' that breaks down arginine, an essential energy source for immune cells. This creates an immunosuppressive microenvironment that impairs the body's ability to fight the disease.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 1, 2015

Self-assembling, biomimetic membranes may aid water filtration

Researchers have developed a second-generation synthetic water channel that improves on earlier attempts to mimic natural aquaporins. The peptide-appended pillar[5]arenes (PAP) membranes are more stable and easier to manufacture, making them suitable for highly efficient water purification membranes.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2015

RNA-binding protein influences key mediator of cellular inflammation and stress responses

Researchers have discovered that RNA-binding protein ROQUIN regulates the stability of thousands of mRNA molecules, including those involved in cellular inflammation and stress responses. By binding to these mRNAs, ROQUIN influences the activity of the key mediator NF-kappaB, which is essential for regulating gene expression.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 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.

Butterflies heat up the field of solar research

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a new technique to make solar energy cheaper and more efficient by mimicking the v-shaped posture of Cabbage White butterflies. The study shows that by replicating this 'wing-like' structure, power-to-weight ratio can be increased 17-fold.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 31, 2015

Watching a tumor grow in real-time

Breast cancer researchers have gained new insights into the phases of tumor growth by visualizing and quantifying tumor development in real-time. The study reveals that tumors undergo a dramatic increase in cell number after four weeks, providing valuable information for treatment selection and delivery.

SourceBIOSS - Centre for Biological Signalling Studies·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 31, 2015

NASA Goddard technology helps fight forest pests

The collaboration uses G-LiHT to measure signs and symptoms of forest health, detecting changes in leaf pigments and spotting infested trees with thermal infrared cameras. This technology helps track emerald ash borer and southern pine beetle populations, informing post-infestation control measures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 31, 2015

How bees naturally vaccinate their babies

Researchers from Arizona State University and other institutions discovered how bees immunize their offspring against specific diseases using the bee blood protein vitellogenin. This process enables bee babies to better fight diseases once they are born, opening doors for creating edible vaccines for insects.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 31, 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.

Shaping the hilly landscapes of a semi-conductor nanoworld

Researchers discovered that redeposition acts as a stabilising factor in the creation of hexagonally arranged dot patterns. The study reveals that eroded particles predominantly redeposit in valleys, not at hilltops, contributing to stable nanostructure formations.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJul 31, 2015

ASHG honors Charles R. Scriver with Victor A. McKusick Leadership Award

Charles R. Scriver is receiving the Victor A. McKusick Leadership Award from ASHG for his work in human genetics, particularly in discovering and addressing inherited metabolic diseases. He has also made significant contributions to public health through pediatric genetic screening programs and education.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 31, 2015

Study offers new insights on hurricane intensity, pollution transport

Researchers analyzed data from airborne sensors deployed during Hurricane Isaac's passage, revealing a downwelling of warm waters that deepened the storm's fuel tank. The study also showed how hurricane-generated currents and eddies can transport oil and other pollutants to coastal beaches.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalJournal of Physical Oceanography·DateJul 31, 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.

Protein machines make fluctuating flows unconsciously

International researchers found protein machines collectively induce fluctuating hydrodynamic flows, enhancing particle diffusive motions. The proteins supply power to the system by extracting energy from nonequilibrium effects.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2015

Starvation effects handed down for generations

A study on nematode worms found that starvation early in life can affect growth, reproduction and stress resistance in subsequent generations. The worms that survived famine became smaller, less fertile, but their offspring were more resistant to starvation and had improved stress tolerance.

SourceDuke University·JournalGenetics·DateJul 31, 2015

Connecting people and geology on volcanoes

Researchers from Michigan Tech study geohazards on San Vicente Volcano in El Salvador, combining traditional hazard assessments with social science techniques. Their work helps develop a more in-depth understanding of the risks present at the volcano.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalJournal of Applied Volcanology·DateJul 31, 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.

Parents inclined to misjudge child happiness based on personal feelings

A study by psychologists at Plymouth University found that parents of children and adolescents consistently misjudge their happiness. The researchers attribute this to an 'egocentric bias' where parents rely heavily on their own feelings to assess the family unit's happiness.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJul 31, 2015

Researchers identify new cancer marker and possible therapeutic target for breast cancer

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified a new molecule named IL13RA2 as a potential marker for metastatic basal-like breast cancer (BLBC). The discovery suggests that targeting this molecule could slow tumor growth and spread, offering a glimmer of hope for patients with this aggressive form of breast cancer.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateJul 31, 2015

Gold-diamond nanodevice for hyperlocalized cancer therapy

A novel combination of techniques is used to create a biocompatible nanodevice that can deliver localized heating to cancer cells while accurately sensing temperature with diamond nanocrystals. This allows for precise targeting of biological molecules and effective thermal cancer therapy.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Quantum Technology·DateJul 31, 2015

Tool helps public health agencies prioritize health risks

A researcher developed a Public Health Index (PHI) model to identify top health risks for chronic diseases among specific populations. The tool balances magnitude, severity and urgency of health issues with intervention effectiveness and cost.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 31, 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.

Crystal clear images uncover secrets of hormone receptors

Researchers used X-ray crystallography to visualize the structure of a neurotensin receptor, shedding light on its mechanism. Binding of neurotensin to the receptor triggers critical conformational changes that activate G protein-coupled signaling pathways.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2015