Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2015 - Page 202


Page 202 of 402

To conduct, or to insulate? That is the question

Researchers discovered a single material, samarium hexaboride (SmB6), that displays dual metal-insulator properties, violating conventional wisdom. The material's behavior is attributed to the existence of a potential third phase, neither insulator nor conductor.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015

ASHG honors Leonid Kruglyak with Curt Stern Award

Leonid Kruglyak, a renowned geneticist, received the 2015 Curt Stern Award for his pioneering work on understanding gene interactions and genome-wide association studies. His laboratory has developed powerful model organisms for studying complex genetic variation.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 2, 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 technology using silver may hold key to electronics advances

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new method to fabricate silver nanoparticles for printed electronics at room temperature. This breakthrough has the potential to open up new applications in fields such as solar cells, printed circuit boards, and low-emissivity coatings.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateJul 2, 2015

Rumors of southern pine deaths have been exaggerated, UGA researchers say

UGA researchers analyzed growth data from thousands of pine tree plots across the Southeast and found that 'southern pine decline' isn't happening on a large scale. The study suggests standard management practices are working just fine, with environmental factors like site conditions, drought, and climate change affecting tree health.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateJul 2, 2015

Researchers show how our sense of smell evolved, including in cave men

A team of scientists studied the genetic basis of human olfaction and reconstructed the sensory world of our distant ancestors. They found that different populations have varying abilities to detect specific smells, with some populations being more sensitive than others.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalChemical Senses·DateJul 2, 2015

Working out in artificial gravity

Researchers at MIT have found that a combination of artificial gravity and exercise can significantly lessen the effects of extended weightlessness in space. The study involved healthy participants pedaling a stationary bicycle while spinning in a centrifuge, with results showing improved bone density and cardiovascular activity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·DateJul 2, 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.

Aluminum clusters shut down molecular fuel factory

Researchers used atom probe tomography to create the first 3-D atomic map of an industrially relevant zeolite material, revealing clues to extending catalyst life. The study found that steaming causes aluminum atoms to cluster, shutting down the catalytic factory and affecting its efficiency.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 2, 2015

Canadian wildfires continue

In July 2015, dozens of wildfires were reported in Canada's Northwest Territories, South Slave, Sahtu, Deh Cho, Inuvik, and Alberta regions, affecting over 270,000 hectares of land.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 2, 2015

Gene therapy for cystic fibrosis shows encouraging trial results

A UK trial has shown significant benefits in lung function for patients with cystic fibrosis who received gene therapy. The treatment involves replacing the faulty gene responsible for the disease and was found to be safe and effective. Further research is needed to improve its effectiveness before it can be used as a clinical treatment.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateJul 2, 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.

Researchers reveal a genetic blueprint for cartilage

A study published in Cell Reports reveals how Sox9 regulates cartilage production and its essential role in skeletal development. Researchers discovered that Sox9 binding to DNA controls gene expression, leading to the formation of chondrocytes and cartilage production.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 2, 2015

Astronomers predict fireworks from rare stellar encounter in 2018

Scientists will observe the event from radio wavelengths to gamma rays, measuring the massive star's gravity and magnetic field. The pulsar's passage through the disk will trigger astrophysical fireworks, providing a probe for studying the system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 2, 2015

The very hungry sea anemone

Researchers at National Oceanography Centre discovered that abyssal sea anemones can consume animals weighing up to six times their own weight, taking up to 80 hours to digest. The study used time-lapse photography and technology from UK's deepest diving robot-sub to observe behaviors.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalDeep Sea Research Part II Topical Studies in Oceanography·DateJul 2, 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.

Rope-chewing technique an easy way to screen monkeys for disease

A new method is being used to screen primates in remote locations without invasive sampling techniques. Saliva from discarded ropes is collected and tested for viral diseases, providing valuable information on zoonotic pathogens.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJul 2, 2015

Genetic variation determines response to anti-diabetic drug

A Penn study found that natural genetic differences in DNA sequence can determine how an anti-diabetic drug works, shedding light on personalized approaches to treating diabetes and related disorders. The research suggests that genetic variations can affect drug response, which could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJul 2, 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.

Viaducts with wind turbines, the new renewable energy source

Researchers have found that wind turbines can be installed under viaducts to produce electricity, offering a new source of renewable energy. The study suggests that this concept could be applied in heavily built-up territories or natural areas with limited space for new constructions.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateJul 2, 2015

Romeo and Juliet roles for banded mongooses

Researchers found that 18% of wild banded mongoose pups are fathered by males from rival packs, reducing the risk of inbreeding. Female mongooses take risks to mate with rivals during pack 'warfare', while males discriminate between relatives and non-relatives.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateJul 2, 2015

Multiplying emerald ash borer decoys made easier

Researchers have developed a cost-effective method for producing hundreds of female emerald ash borer decoys using biomimetic fabrication. The new approach, which requires only one mold, is 40% more successful than previous methods and can be produced faster and less expensively.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Bionic Engineering·DateJul 2, 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.

First comprehensive analysis of the woolly mammoth genome completed

The study identifies extensive genetic changes responsible for woolly mammoths' adaptations to arctic life, including genes linked to fat metabolism, insulin signaling, and temperature sensation. Researchers resurrected a mammoth gene involved in temperature sensation and characterized its protein product in the laboratory.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 2, 2015

Unexpected enzyme may resurrect roses' fading scents

Researchers have identified an unexpected enzyme, RhNUDX1, that plays a key role in producing rose fragrances. By investigating the genes of two rose cultivars, they found that this enzyme generates the fragrant monoterpene geraniol.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 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.

Hippo dances with hormones

Scientists found that abnormal growth in fruit fly tumors depends on ecdysone, a steroid hormone similar to estrogen. This discovery may have implications for studying cancer stem cells and proliferative mechanisms in human cancers.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 2, 2015

Review indicates where cardio benefits of exercise may lie

A review of 160 clinical trials found exercise improves health outcomes, but effects vary by age, gender, and health status. Intermediate biomarkers like insulin resistance and inflammation may mediate cardioprotective effects.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 2, 2015
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.

Study: Sharing knowledge positively impacts innovation in retail

A study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that sharing knowledge positively impacts innovation in retail. Employees had the highest levels of innovative behavior when flows were high and balanced, suggesting a give-and-take process is ideal.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Product Innovation Management·DateJul 2, 2015

Miniature landscapes show how hills and valleys form

Researchers developed a laboratory device to mimic landscape formation, finding that hillslope processes play a key role in shaping valleys. The study's findings support a popular theory on landscape evolution, suggesting a scale-dependent balance between tumbling sediments and runoff processes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015

The quantum middle man

Scientists have identified a way to manipulate nuclei using electrons' magnetic moments, enabling the transfer of quantum information between particles. The discovery could lead to more stable systems for quantum computing.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 2, 2015

The sting in dengue's tail

Singapore researchers have identified specific molecular interactions in the dengue virus genome that allow it to manipulate human immune defenses and spread more efficiently. These genetic changes increase the virus's capacity for epidemic outbreaks, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance and response strategies.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 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.

New technique maps elusive chemical markers on proteins

Researchers developed a new method to map critical chemical tags on proteins, enabling better understanding of protein formation and function. The technique allows pinpointing phosphates' location and studying unstable amino acids like histidine.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateJul 2, 2015

Discovery points to a new path toward a universal flu vaccine

Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered a new mechanism to create more effective and efficient vaccines against the flu virus. By harnessing modified antibodies, they were able to elicit broad protection against multiple strains of the virus.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateJul 2, 2015

Seafaring spiders depend on their 'sails' and 'anchors'

Researchers found that spiders adopt postures to control wind direction while on water, allowing them to 'sail' in turbulent conditions. This behavior compensates for the risks of landing on water after uncontrolled flights, enabling spiders to survive in aquatic environments.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 2, 2015

Genetic testing in kids is fraught with complications

The American Society of Human Genetics recommends genetic testing for children only when results could have an immediate impact on healthcare decisions. Predictive testing is particularly complicated and may affect family relationships and mental health. ASHG advises against direct-to-consumer DNA testing, especially in healthy children.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 2, 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.

Special focus on advanced nonlinear control of hypersonic flight vehicles

Recent advancements in hypersonic flight dynamics and control are presented, including anti-disturbance control, composite dynamic surface control using neural networks, and sliding mode control. These methods enhance tracking performance and convergence speed, addressing system uncertainty and actuator dynamics.

SourceScience China Press·DateJul 2, 2015

Supercharging stem cells to create new therapies

A new method has been discovered to culture stem cells, allowing them to grow twice as fast and be more efficient in regulating the immune response. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for transplant patients by reducing side effects of current immunosuppressant drugs.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalStem Cells·DateJul 2, 2015

The clock is ticking: New method reveals exact time of death after 10 days

Researchers at the University of Salzburg developed a new method to estimate time since death in humans, even up to 240 hours after death, by analyzing muscle proteins and enzymes in pigs. Initial results are promising for human samples, offering a simple and efficient approach with advantages over current methods.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 2, 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.

Water to understand the brain

Researchers from Université de Genève found that activated neurons swell due to massive entry of water, providing a new insight into brain functioning. This discovery enables the detection of cellular mechanisms behind brain activity, allowing for more accurate localization and pathologies diagnosis.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 2, 2015

Cause of acute liver failure in young children discovered

A team of researchers has discovered a link between acute liver failure and mutations in the NBAS gene, which affects cellular transport processes. The study found that these mutations can disrupt protein packing and transport within cells, leading to metabolic imbalances in the liver.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 2, 2015

Seahorse tails could inspire new generation of robots

A recent study published in the journal Science suggests that seahorse tails' square prism shape offers a functional advantage over cylindrical shapes. This unique design could inspire new forms of armor and lead to the development of search-and-rescue robots with improved control and versatility.

SourceClemson University·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 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.

Elastic gel to heal wounds

A team of bioengineers at Brigham and Women's Hospital developed a new protein-based gel that mimics the properties of elastic tissue when exposed to light. The gel can be controlled in its swelling and strength, making it suitable for various applications such as regenerating cells or creating a barrier over wounds.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 2, 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.

The bioprinted 'play dough' capable of cell and protein transfer

Scientists have developed a novel technique for bioprinting at ambient temperatures, creating a paste capable of incorporating cells and proteins. This innovative material can sustain stresses similar to cancellous bone and is being explored as an injectable bone defect filler or scaffold for larger reconstructions.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateJul 2, 2015

Clemson research: Bad sleep habits linked to higher self-control risks

Clemson University researchers found that poor sleep habits increase the risk of impulsive desires, inattentiveness, and questionable decision-making. Better sleep habits can contribute to improved health and worker performance, as well as reduced risks of addictions and excessive spending.

SourceClemson University·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJul 2, 2015

Infection with Wolbachia bacteria curbs fighting among fruit flies

Research shows that Wolbachia-infected male fruit flies fight less aggressively than their uninfected peers. The infected flies took three times longer to initiate fights and started fewer battles, but their bouts lasted as long as those of uninfected counterparts.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 2, 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.