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Science News Archive 2015


Page 191 of 402

Key protein controls nutrient availability in mammals

Researchers found that KLF15 helps maintain metabolic balance by controlling the availability of nutrients in the body. The discovery may also contribute to understanding diseases characterized by excessive bile acid production.

Few states require HPV vaccine

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is currently required in only two US states, with vaccination coverage substantially below the Healthy People 2020 target. A recent study found that HPV vaccination rates are lower than those for other adolescent vaccines, such as hepatitis B and meningococcal conjugate vaccines.

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.

Researchers discover way to assess future literacy challenges

Researchers discovered a biological test that can identify children with literacy challenges or learning disabilities long before they learn to read. The study found that pre-readers' brains inefficiently process speech against background noise, predicting future reading skills and language development.

Ecologists predict impact of climate change on vulnerable species

Researchers at the University of Toronto predict which plants and animals may be vulnerable to climate change by analyzing historical data on 30 fish species in over 1,500 lakes. The study found that bass and smaller fish species can wipe out vulnerable fish species due to predation and resource competition.

World-first epilepsy self-monitor app launched

The EpSMon app analyzes risk factors and provides personalized advice, helping users take actions to lower their risks. With around 600,000 people in the UK affected by epilepsy, this innovative tool aims to fill the information gap left by NHS funding cuts for GP monitoring.

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 molecular mechanism of neuropathic pain in mice

A research group at Hiroshima University found that downregulated spinal astrocyte connexin43 expression leads to sustained neuropathic pain following peripheral nerve injury. Restoring Cx43 function via adenovirus vector may reverse mechanical hypersensitivity and modulate glutamatergic neurotransmission.

Melon genome study reveals recent impacts of breeding

A comprehensive genome analysis of 7 melon varieties provides new insights into phenotypic variability and selective breeding. The study identifies 902 genes potentially affected by DNA structural variations, including disease resistance and sugar metabolism.

New classification system for brain tumors

Erlangen-based doctors have created a new classification system for brain tumors that predicts the development of gliomas with high precision. The Friedlein Grading A/B (FGA/B) system classifies tumors according to their position in the brain on routine MRI scans.

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.

Acupuncture can improve outcomes in dermatological conditions

A systematic review of 24 studies found statistically significant improvement in patient outcomes with acupuncture compared to placebo acupuncture or no treatment. The findings support the potential for acupuncture as a treatment modality in dermatology.

Environment, not distance, triggers genetic differences in 'sky island' birds

A study on White-breasted nuthatches found that environmental factors, such as temperature and rainfall, drive genetic differences between populations, rather than geographical distance. This discovery challenges the traditional view of isolation-by-distance and provides insights into species adaptation to unique habitats.

Scientific curiosity and preparedness for emerging pathogen outbreaks

The article highlights Stanley Perlman's career journey from studying mouse viruses to researching human coronaviruses like SARS and MERS. His work demonstrates the importance of basic research in understanding virus interactions with the immune system, which can inform strategies for preventing or treating diseases.

Could dissolvable microneedles replace injected vaccines?

A new vaccine patch made of dissolvable material has been shown to be effective in protecting against flu infection, with an immune reaction equal to or stronger than traditional needle-delivered vaccines. The patch is easy to use without medical personnel, making it ideal for developing countries.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study examines cost-effectiveness of newer cholesterol guidelines

A study examines the cost-effectiveness of new cholesterol guidelines, finding that a more lenient threshold may be cost-effective. The analysis suggests that shifting from a 7.5% ASCVD risk threshold to 3-4% thresholds could avert up to 160,000 cardiovascular events.

Intellectual pursuits may buffer the brain against addiction

A UC Berkeley study found that mice who received cognitive training showed reduced preference for cocaine chambers, implying a protective effect on the brain's reward system. The results suggest that brief cognitive interventions may promote long-term resilience against drug-seeking behaviors.

Density-near-zero acoustical metamaterial made in China

Chinese scientists created a tunable membrane material that effectively recreates the quantum tunneling effect for sound waves. The material has an effective density near zero and enables high transmission around sharp corners and efficient wave splitting.

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.

Kids expecting aggression from others become aggressive themselves

A new study by Duke University researchers found that children who are taught to be vigilant for hostility in others are more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior themselves. The four-year longitudinal study involved 1,299 children and their parents from 12 different cultural groups worldwide.

Ebola vaccine trial begins in Senegal

A clinical trial testing an Ebola vaccine developed on a new cell line is underway in Senegal, aiming to provide a rapid response to outbreaks. The trial uses two vaccines, ChAd3-EBO Z and MVA-EBO Z, which have shown excellent safety profiles and promise for low-cost mass production.

Advanced composites may borrow designs from deep-sea shrimp

Researchers studied the exoskeletons of deep-sea shrimp and shallow-dwelling shrimp, revealing differences in structure and performance. The deep-sea exoskeleton is softer yet capable of withstanding temperature extremes, while the surface-shrimp exoskeleton is harder and better protects against predators.

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.

Why kids' recovery times vary widely after brain injury

A UCLA/USC study suggests that damage to the brain's nerve fibers is likely the cause of varying recovery times after a traumatic brain injury. The research found that patients with widespread myelin damage performed 14% worse on cognitive tests and had slower wiring, while those with intact myelin recovered faster.

Substance abuse reduces brain volume in women but not men

A new study published in Radiology found that substance abuse has long-term effects on brain volume in women, with significant reductions in gray matter volume in several brain areas. In contrast, men showed no such brain changes after abstinence from stimulant use.

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.

More precise estimate of Avogadro's number to help redefine kilogram

Researchers from Italy, Japan and Germany correlated two precise measurements of Avogadro's number to obtain a single value that can be used to redefine the kilogram. The new estimate will help expand international access to precise measurements and pave the way for a more accurate and globally accessible definition.

Smart cornfields of the future

Researchers aim to improve crop productivity by optimizing photosynthetic efficiency, a process that has plateaued due to its inefficiency. Designs include smart canopies with layered plants and tailored light-absorbing pigments to minimize light saturation and maximize energy use.

Anti-stress hormone may provide indication of breast cancer risk

A new study from Lund University found a significant correlation between low levels of the anti-stress hormone enkephalin and an increased risk of breast cancer. Women with the lowest levels of the hormone had a risk more than three times that of those with the highest levels.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

You need this hole in the head -- to be smart

University of Adelaide researchers found a significant correlation between brain volume and blood flow rate in primates, indicating faster cognitive ability. The study suggests that brain metabolic rate increased with brain size, leading to higher intelligence.

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.

Oregon study suggests organic farming needs direction to be sustainable

A University of Oregon researcher found that large-scale organic farming operations are not reducing greenhouse gas emissions, despite being considered a sustainable alternative. The study suggests stricter adherence to sustainability-driven farm practices and increased governmental oversight are needed.

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.

Combined use of antidepressants and painkillers linked to bleeding risk

A recent study published in The BMJ found that taking a combination of antidepressants and common painkillers increases the risk of bleeding. The researchers analyzed data from over four million patients and found a substantially increased bleeding risk with combined use of antidepressants and NSAIDs, especially in men.

Stem cell transplant alleviates symptoms in lupus animal models

Researchers found that mesenchymal stem cells alleviate inflammation and nephritis in mice with SLE, suggesting a potential treatment for severe autoimmune diseases. The study showed that MSCs suppress T helper cell development, which helps to slow disease progression.

Innovative project brings peace to those near death: McMaster study

A new study led by McMaster University professor Dr. Deborah Cook found that a program honoring patients' last wishes creates meaning, memories, and closure at death. The Three Wishes Project, which involved 40 dying patients and their families, resulted in the implementation of 97.5% of requested wishes.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Dads' parenting of children with autism improves moms' mental health

Research suggests that fathers who read to their infants with autism and take active roles in caregiving activities can reduce mothers' depression and stress. The study found that when fathers engage in literacy and responsive caregiving activities, mothers report fewer depressive symptoms and improved well-being.

Exercise may reverse age-related bone loss in middle-aged men

Middle-aged men with low bone mass can improve bone density through exercise-based interventions, such as weight-lifting and jumping programs. These exercises, completed for at least six months, increase bone mass in the whole body and lumbar spine, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Spray application of respiratory cells holds promise for tissue engineering

A new study demonstrates the ability to apply a thin coating of viable respiratory epithelial cells to tissue engineered constructs using a commercially available spray device, providing a promising approach for repairing or replacing challenging structures like trachea or bronchi. The effects of air pressure and nozzle diameter on cel...

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.