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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 175


Page 175 of 402

Linda J. S. Allen awarded AWM-SIAM Sonia Kovalevsky Lecture

Linda J.S. Allen, a renowned mathematician at Texas Tech University, has been recognized with the AWM-SIAM Sonia Kovalevsky Lecture award for her significant contributions to ordinary differential equations, difference equations, and stochastic models, particularly in the areas of infectious diseases and ecology.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJul 29, 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.

Black men are at double the risk of prostate cancer compared to white men

Black men in England face a double lifetime risk of being diagnosed with and dying from prostate cancer compared to their white counterparts. The study reveals that Asian men have half the lifetime risk, highlighting the need for targeted awareness-raising and informed decision-making about PSA tests.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJul 29, 2015

Detecting small metallic contaminants in food via magnetization

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology have developed a practical magnetic metallic contaminant detector using three high-Tc RF superconducting quantum interference devices for food inspection. The detection technique is based on recording the remnant magnetic field of a contaminant, providing a safe and high-resolution method.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity·DateJul 29, 2015

An all-natural sunscreen derived from algae

Scientists created a novel sunscreen from algae's natural molecules, combined with chitosan, to protect against UV rays. The material is biocompatible, heat-stable, and absorbs both UVA and UVB radiation with high efficiency.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 29, 2015

Intracellular microlasers could allow precise labeling of a trillion individual cells

Researchers have induced structures within cells to produce laser light, emitting specific wavelengths that allow for precise labeling and measurement of individual cells. This technology has the potential to tag up to a trillion cells, matching the estimated number of human body cells, enabling applications in basic research and disea...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 29, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Don't call them stiff: Metal organic frameworks show unexpected flexibility

Researchers have discovered that metal organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit dynamic behavior, shifting between different geometries over time. This finding could lead to the synthesis of brand-new types of materials with enhanced flexibility in applications such as antimicrobial agents, hydrogen-storage materials and solar-cell components.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJul 29, 2015

Early prosocial behavior good predictor of kids' future

A nearly 20-year study found that kindergarteners' social-emotional skills are a significant predictor of their future success. Students demonstrating better prosocial behavior were more likely to graduate from college, be gainfully employed, and avoid arrest.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 29, 2015

Could a sugar tax help combat obesity?

Experts weigh in on whether a sugar tax can help combat obesity, with some arguing it's a necessary step to reduce consumption and others claiming it would be economically ineffective. A sugar tax on all products may stimulate reformulated products, while taxes on specific food categories could change diets and improve health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 29, 2015
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.

Can we restart the heart?

San Diego State University researchers have developed a way to use biotechnology to rejuvenate cardiac progenitor cells, which replicate indefinitely into new heart cells. By overexpressing an enzyme associated with cancer cell growth, they've shown promise in increasing cell proliferation and lifespan in mice, as well as human tissue.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalBiological Chemistry·DateJul 29, 2015

Ongoing recovery efforts take toll on hurricane survivors

A new study reveals that Hurricane Sandy's effects on New Jersey residents are still being felt two and a half years after the storm. The study found that 27% of residents with damaged homes experienced moderate or severe mental health distress, while mold was significantly associated with asthma and mental health distress.

SourceNew York University·DateJul 29, 2015

Shoring up Tor

Researchers at MIT and QCRI demonstrate a vulnerability in Tor's design, allowing an adversary to infer a hidden server's location or the source of information reaching a user. However, they also propose defenses, which are being evaluated for inclusion in future versions of the Tor software, to prevent such attacks.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJul 29, 2015
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

SIAM's Ralph E. Kleinman Prize goes to George Em Karniadakis

Brown University professor George Em Karniadakis has been awarded the Ralph E. Kleinman Prize by SIAM for his contributions to applied mathematics, specifically in computational fluid dynamics and stochastic modeling. The $5,000 prize recognizes his research bridging high-level mathematics with practical applications.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJul 29, 2015

People walk slower, swerve when texting while distracted

A study found that adults who text while being cognitively distracted exhibit a more cautious gait, including increased obstacle clearance and decreased ability to walk in a straight line. The researchers suggest this adaptation may help prevent accidents when faced with cognitive challenges.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 29, 2015

Real-time imaging of lung lesions during surgery helps localize tumors and improve precision

A new study reports that a targeted molecular contrast agent can be used to cause lung adenocarcinomas to fluoresce during pulmonary surgery, enabling real-time optical imaging and precise visualization of tumor margins. The technique showed promise in localizing tumors and detecting metastatic cancer cells with high accuracy.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateJul 29, 2015

Aquariums deliver health and wellbeing benefits

New research published in Environment & Behavior found that watching aquariums and fish tanks can improve physical and mental wellbeing. The study showed noticeable reductions in blood pressure and heart rate, with higher numbers of fish helping to maintain attention for longer.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateJul 29, 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.

Just say 'No' to drugs -- in water

A 16-year-old scientist has created a solution to remove pharmaceutical drugs from contaminated water, using a plastic adsorbent that can capture the chemicals. The innovative technique, tested over six years, shows promise for scaling up and applying it in real-world water treatment.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJul 29, 2015

Prostate 'organoid' hints at how early BPA exposure may increase cancer risk

A new study using human embryonic stem cells suggests that early exposure to bisphenol A may lead to an increased risk of prostate cancer. The research found that BPA caused the development of prostate organoids to produce an overabundance of prostate stem cells, which could be a risk factor for cancer.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 29, 2015

Experts recommend tumor removal as first-line treatment for Cushing's syndrome

The Endocrine Society recommends tumor removal as the first-line treatment for endogenous Cushing's syndrome. This approach is optimal because it preserves the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which is crucial for the body's central stress response. Other treatment options include medication and radiation therapy.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 29, 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.

Failed stars host powerful aurora displays

Researchers discovered that brown dwarf stars, which are difficult to detect and classify, host powerful auroras similar to Earth's display. The study used radio and optical telescopes to observe a brown dwarf 20 light years away, providing evidence that these stars act like supersized planets.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2015

An imbalance of cellular bioenergetics in pancreatic beta-cells links to type 2 diabetes

Research demonstrates impaired activation of mitochondrial energy metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes, leading to decreased insulin secretion. A novel fluorescence microscopic assay reveals a subtle disharmony between bioenergetic supply and demand pathways, suggesting a shift towards systems-level approaches to fight the disease.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalEndocrinology·DateJul 29, 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.

'Failed stars' host powerful auroral displays

A team of astronomers led by Gregg Hallinan has discovered that brown dwarfs, which are cool and dim objects, host powerful auroras near their magnetic poles. The findings suggest that these so-called failed stars behave more like giant planets with highly active magnetic fields.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2015

Research with bite

A new study reveals that the distinctive, saw-like tooth structure of theropod dinosaurs enabled them to effectively process food, contributing to their success as predators. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of dinosaur dentition and has implications for our understanding of these ancient creatures.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 28, 2015

New treatment may help neonatal liver disease associated with parenteral nutrition

A new study suggests that exogenous glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2) treatment can improve the excretion of toxic bile acids and stimulate liver growth in neonatal pigs with parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease. This finding supports a beneficial role for GLP-2 as a novel therapy in PNALD.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateJul 28, 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.

Early evidence suggests hybrid cochlear implants may benefit millions with common form of hearing loss

A multicenter study found that hybrid cochlear implant devices led to significant improvements in hearing and speech recognition among individuals with severely damaged high-frequency hearing. The study showed that 45 participants experienced overall improvement in their hearing and speech recognition, with some achieving profound gains.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateJul 28, 2015

Short wavelength plasmons observed in nanotubes

Berkeley Lab researchers have generated and detected plasmons with one of the strongest confinement factors ever, confining photon energy to a spatial dimension smaller than its wavelength. This breakthrough enables novel plasmonic devices with extraordinary sub-wavelength confinement.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 28, 2015

New study data show reduced intracranial pressure

A European clinical trial shows that therapeutic hypothermia can significantly decrease intracranial pressure in patients with severe traumatic brain injury. The study found a mean reduction of 4.3 mmHg at the first hour of body cooling, continuing throughout the 6-hour hypothermia therapy.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTherapeutic Hypothermia and Temperature Management·DateJul 28, 2015

Illuminating mechanisms of repetitive thinking

This special series of articles explores the core psychological processes underlying maladaptive thought processes like worry and rumination. The research highlights cutting-edge methodologies and advances our understanding of these processes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateJul 28, 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.

Research grasps how the brain plans gripping motion

The study found that neurons in the ventral premotor cortex retain information about objects and generate unique grip patterns. This advances brain-computer interfaces, enabling people with severe paralysis to control robotic arms and hands using their thoughts.

SourceBrown University·DateJul 28, 2015

Firms 'underinvest' in long-term cancer research

A study by MIT economists found that pharmaceutical firms tend to invest more in drugs for earlier-stage cancers, resulting in a lack of investment in late-stage cancer treatments. This has resulted in a loss of 890,000 life-years among people diagnosed with cancer in 2003.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateJul 28, 2015

Identifying ever-growing disturbances leading to freak waves

Researchers have made significant progress in identifying growing localised patterns as early indicators of freak waves. By resolving the nonlinear Schrödinger equation, they can extract pertinent information from localised disturbances' characteristics, shedding light on complex dynamics.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJul 28, 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.

Barrow scientists 'rewrite' history books

Researchers at Barrow Neurological Institute found that Massot's modern neurosurgical techniques played a critical role in Kutuzov's survival and ultimate victory over Napoleon. The brain surgery allowed Kutuzov to make the best decision, avoiding a confrontation with Napoleon's superior forces.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateJul 28, 2015

Washington, DC sinking fast, adding to threat of sea-level rise

New research confirms Washington D.C. is sinking rapidly, with a projected six-inch drop by 2100, exacerbating flooding and sea-level rise concerns. The study's detailed field data reveal the region's land subsidence is primarily driven by geological processes, not human influence.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalGSA Today·DateJul 28, 2015

Practice doesn't always make perfect (depending on your brain)

A new study at McGill University found that the brain's capacity to learn is influenced by individual predisposition, rather than just training. The research used brain imaging studies of young adults with little musical background, showing a clear distinction between innate talent and training-induced plasticity.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateJul 28, 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.

Red and White Fleet going green

Sandia National Laboratories is helping Red and White Fleet design, build, and operate a high-speed hydrogen fuel cell passenger ferry and hydrogen refueling station. The project aims to reduce emissions and improve air quality in harbor areas.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateJul 28, 2015

UV light can kill foodborne pathogens on certain fruits

Researchers at Washington State University have found that UVC light can effectively inactivate up to 99.9% of foodborne pathogens on apples and pears, but listeria was more resistant. The technology is simple to implement and inexpensive, making it a promising solution for organic fruit processors.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateJul 28, 2015

Chimpanzees binge on clay to detox and boost the minerals in their diet

Wild chimpanzees in Uganda's Budongo Forest are increasingly eating clay to supplement the minerals in their diet, which also helps them 'detox' and digest their food. The researchers observed that accessing clay with leaf sponges provided higher mineral concentrations than taking clay-water or clay directly from the ground.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 28, 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.

Autism costs estimated to reach nearly $500 billion, potentially $1 trillion, by 2025

UC Davis researchers estimate that the total costs of caring for people with autism spectrum disorder will range from $162 to $367 billion in 2015 and potentially reach $1 trillion by 2025. The study recommends increased investment in research and early intervention programs to reduce these costs.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJul 28, 2015

Researchers provide new details about sea stars' immunity

A University of Texas at Arlington study reveals that sea stars have an immune response characterized by various types of immunities, including the first melanin gene ever recorded in a sea star. The team also found changes in genes related to collagen and nervous system function, which may contribute to the disease's effects.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 28, 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.

Diabetics who skip breakfast provoke hazardous blood sugar spikes

A new study reveals that skipping breakfast triggers major blood sugar spikes and impairs insulin responses in type-2 diabetics throughout the day. The researchers found that fasting until noon causes extraordinary glucose peaks after lunch and dinner, highlighting the importance of not skipping meals for diabetics.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJul 28, 2015

Brain disease scenarios revised by step-by-step imaging of toxic aggregation

Scientists at EPFL have successfully distinguished between the disease-causing aggregation forms of proteins using step-by-step imaging. This breakthrough can help change pharmaceutical treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's, which are caused by misfolded protein aggregates.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2015

A new litmus test for chaos?

Researchers from the University of Maryland have described a new definition of chaos that can be applied to a wide range of chaotic systems. Expansion entropy, a flexible type of entropy, is used to identify chaotic behavior in models that are forced by external inputs. This new definition has the potential to help advance computer mod...

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateJul 28, 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.

Major European mouse study reveals the role of genes in disease

A major European mouse study has identified the roles of 320 genes in mice, shedding light on their functions and potential links to human diseases. The study, led by Helmholtz Munich, provides valuable insights into genetic variations that can be used to develop personalized medicine approaches.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 28, 2015

A single hair shows researchers what a bear has been eating

Scientists use new technology to determine grizzly bears' protein intake and mercury levels by analyzing a single hair sample. The technique has potential applications in determining the recovery of threatened bears and their habitat needs.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 28, 2015