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Science News Archive 2015


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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.