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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 234


Page 234 of 402

UAB researchers design the most precise quantum thermometer to date

Researchers have created a nanothermometer capable of measuring temperature fluctuations in cells, achieving unprecedented precision. By combining thermodynamic tools with quantum metrology, they established the smallest possible fluctuation in temperature that can be measured.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 5, 2015

Next-generation illumination using silicon quantum dot-based white-blue LED

Researchers at Hiroshima University have developed a next-generation illumination device using a silicon quantum dot-based hybrid light-emitting diode. The new LED exhibit higher current and optical power densities, and features an active area 40 times larger than traditional commercial LEDs.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 5, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Archaeologists discover evidence of prehistoric gold trade route

Archaeologists have found evidence of a prehistoric gold trade route between the south-west of the UK and Ireland dating back to the early Bronze Age. The study reveals that gold was imported from Cornwall rather than produced locally, suggesting that it was traded for other valuable goods.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalProceedings of the Prehistoric Society·DateJun 5, 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.

Moving sector walls on the nano scale

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a technique to manipulate domain walls in multiferroic materials, which could lead to new technologies in data storage and electronics. The discovery shows that domain walls can be selectively shifted or altered using electrical fields, paving the way for new applications.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 5, 2015

Tiny but precise: The most accurate quantum thermometers

Researchers developed the smallest and most accurate thermometer that can detect tiny fluctuations in microscopic regions, enabling applications in various fields. The study provides a full characterization of temperature estimators with maximum accuracy, shedding light on their margin of error.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 5, 2015

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite gets colorful look at Hurricane Blanca

The Suomi NPP satellite gathered infrared data on Hurricane Blanca, which was false-colored to show locations of the strongest thunderstorms. The image revealed two areas of coldest cloud top temperatures and strongest storms west-southwest and east-northeast of Blanca's circulation center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 5, 2015

New study shows the dynamics of active swarms in alternating fields

Researchers at Uppsala University have studied the dynamics of active swarms using computer simulations and experiments on unicellular algae. They found that the collective response was only possible when the field was varying slowly, resulting in a more persistent motion.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJun 5, 2015

More accurate continuous glucose monitoring systems can reduce frequency of hypoglycemic episodes

In silico experiments show that more accurate continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems can detect dangerously low blood sugar and reduce the frequency of hypoglycemic episodes. The technology improves glycemic control by providing more precise measurements, enabling better decision-making for individuals with diabetes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateJun 5, 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.

UC Davis awards $1 million to seed brain science research

The University of California, Davis has awarded a total of $2 million to five interdisciplinary teams to explore high-impact discoveries in brain science. The funding will enable researchers to conduct preliminary experiments and develop compelling data to support applications for Brain Initiative awards.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJun 5, 2015

Personality shapes the way our brains react to eye contact

Researchers found that personality traits, particularly Neuroticism, affect brain activity in response to eye contact. Participants who scored low on Neuroticism exhibited approach-associated brain activity when looking at someone making eye contact, while those with high scores showed avoidance-associated patterns.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateJun 5, 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.

Ladybird colors reveal their toxicity

Research found that ladybird color reveals toxicity to predators, with more conspicuous species being less likely to be attacked. The study used modified cameras and artificial versions of each species to test predation risk, revealing that brighter colors act as warning signals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 5, 2015

Study: Top salads with eggs to better absorb vegetables' carotenoids

Research from Purdue University found that adding eggs to a salad with raw vegetables significantly improves the absorption of carotenoids. This is due to the lipid content in whole eggs, which enhances the absorption of these fat-soluble nutrients.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 5, 2015

DNA breakage underlies both learning, age-related damage

A new study found that DNA breakage is a natural process that allows the brain to learn and generate memories, but weakens with age. Researchers discovered that DNA damage can lead to increased expression of genes involved in learning and memory, which could be detrimental as we age.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateJun 4, 2015

Parent-reported symptoms gauge features of the food allergic disease EoE

Researchers have identified a validated tool to measure symptoms and impact in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a severe food allergy. The Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis Symptom Score (PEESS) v2.0 questionnaire corresponded with clinical and biologic features of EoE, suggesting that eosinophil activity and mast cells contribute to d...

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 4, 2015

New species of horned dinosaur with 'bizarre' features revealed

A nearly intact skull of a new horned dinosaur species, Regaliceratops peterhewsi, has been discovered in Alberta, Canada. The specimen features a crown-like frill with large pentagonal plates and a central spike, challenging current classification of horned dinosaurs.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 4, 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.

Is dietary supplementation appropriate for children with autism spectrum disorder?

A recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often do not receive adequate nutrients from dietary supplements. Despite supplementation, many children with ASD still have deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium and vitami...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJun 4, 2015

Research points to effective methods of freezing avian red blood cells

New research finds that dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) preserves avian red blood cell viability, offering a potential solution for treating birds with life-threatening conditions. Further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of DMSO for long-term blood storage.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·DateJun 4, 2015

Reprogramming of DNA observed in human germ cells for first time

A study published in Cell has described the comprehensive erasure of epigenetic information in early primordial germ cells prior to egg and sperm formation. However, researchers found that around 5% of DNA remains resistant to reprogramming, potentially contributing to conditions such as schizophrenia and obesity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCell·DateJun 4, 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.

Clues to the Earth's ancient core

A study published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters reveals new insights into the Earth's early core by analyzing the magnetic signatures of mineral grains in ancient rocks. The findings, led by Michigan Tech geophysicist Aleksey Smirnov, shed light on the planet's mysterious past.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJun 4, 2015

NIH researchers pilot predictive medicine by studying healthy people's DNA

Researchers sequenced genomes of nearly 1,000 volunteers and identified genomic variants predicting rare diseases, with over 3% of the US population potentially affected. This study demonstrates the potential for predictive medicine using DNA sequencing, with implications for personalized healthcare.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 4, 2015

Applying research agendas to sport fishing

Scientists identify key research needs to ensure healthy populations of these prized game fish, including habitat conservation and genetic analysis. A holistic approach is needed to manage the impact of humans on fish populations.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFisheries·DateJun 4, 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.

Common method to lower lead levels in drinking water may have opposite effect

New research finds that pH lowering of municipal water supplies can increase particulate lead levels due to corrosion of cast iron mains. The study suggests that future strategies to reduce lead in drinking water may require infrastructure upgrades or iron control measures.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateJun 4, 2015

How dividing cells end up the same size

Researchers at Duke University found that the initial size of cells determines how much they grow before dividing into two, contrary to previous findings. This discovery was made possible by analyzing oscillations in cell growth and gene expression using a unique device that allows for single-cell analysis.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateJun 4, 2015

Unlocking nanofibers' potential

Researchers at MIT have developed a new technique for producing nanofibers that increases the rate of production fourfold while reducing energy consumption by over 90%. The technique uses tiny emitters to regulate fluid flow, resulting in uniform fibers even at high manufacturing rates.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNanotechnology·DateJun 4, 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.

Despite abnormalities after concussion, sleep continues to aid memory and recall

Research at UMass Amherst finds that despite concussion-related abnormalities in sleep and memory, sleep aids recall and benefits are comparable to those without TBI. Participants who slept showed better recall in word memorization tasks compared to those tested after an equal period awake.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJun 4, 2015

An initiation mechanism for dendritic spines discovered

Scientists identify protein MIM as a key player in initiating dendritic spines, which form the basis of neuronal connections. This discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying brain diseases with altered dendritic spine density.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 4, 2015

Decaying RNA molecules tell a story

Decaying RNA molecules provide a snapshot of how proteins are produced, with one end decaying while the other serves as a template for translation. Researchers have discovered that an enzyme degrading mRNA follows closely behind ribosomes, pausing at set points to allow translation to complete before degradation begins.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJun 4, 2015
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.

An immune system marker for therapy-resistant prostate cancer

A team of researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has identified interleukin-6 as a key player in driving aggressive and hormone therapy-resistant prostate cancer. The discovery holds promise for developing targeted treatments and improving patient outcomes.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJun 4, 2015

Cheating amoebas reveal key to successful societies

A recent study published in Current Biology found that while cheaters do not take over populations, they also cannot ever fully be removed. By identifying how diverse societies prevent or cope with cheating, researchers can identify general principles about how to promote cooperation and prevent conflict.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 4, 2015

Thirty years of AIDS data highlight survival gains, room for improvement

Over 30 years of data from San Francisco shows improved survival rates for AIDS patients, but a third still die within five years after initial opportunistic infection. Better prevention and treatment strategies are crucial to address lingering mortality risks.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 4, 2015

Feeding caterpillars make leaves shine

Researchers visualized calcium signals in plants that spread systemically from attacked leaves to neighboring leaves, triggering a plant defense response. The study used transgenic Arabidopsis plants that emitted light energy when bound by calcium ions, allowing scientists to track the calcium flow in plants.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalNew Phytologist·DateJun 4, 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.

TSRI study: Hormone 'erases' male smell for female mice

Researchers at TSRI discovered that a hormone called progesterone blocks signals from male odor molecules in female mouse noses during diestrus, leading to 'male odor blindness' and altered behavior. This finding suggests new avenues for studying senses and behavior.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 4, 2015

Cancer screening increase may reflect Affordable Care Act provision

Screening for colorectal cancer increased among lower-income and least-educated adults following the Affordable Care Act's removal of cost-sharing provisions. This increase was observed, particularly among Medicare-insured individuals, suggesting that ACA's provision may have contributed to the rise in screening rates.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateJun 4, 2015

Protein maintains double duty as key cog in body clock and metabolic control

The study reveals that Rev-erbα has two distinct roles in regulating the body clock and metabolism, one in cells across the body and another in the liver. This dual function may enable the development of targeted therapies for metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and fatty liver disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2015

Female mice are able to smell male pheromones only when ready to mate

Researchers found that female mice are unable to detect male pheromones until they enter the ovulation cycle, where hormones such as progesterone decrease and allow them to sense potential partners. This study highlights the nose's role in making important decisions about behavior influenced by hormonal signals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJun 4, 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.

CU Anschutz study shows low-cost weight loss program has long-term results

A new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found that a low-cost, non-profit weight loss program offers clinically significant and long-term weight loss results. The TOPS program, which costs just $92 a year, was shown to be effective in maintaining weight loss for over seven years.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 4, 2015

Developing delirium in the ICU linked to fatal outcomes

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that developing delirium in the ICU increases hospital stays and risk of dying, with risks doubled for brain dysfunction. The study also suggests potential causes of delirium include medication use and inflammation outside the brain.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 4, 2015

New tool brings standards to epigenetic studies

Scientists developed ICeChIP, a new technique to calibrate chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiments with an internal standard. This improves accuracy and reproducibility in epigenetic studies, enabling comparisons between experiments and discovery of new findings, including the prevalence of bivalency in stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 4, 2015
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.

Vanishing friction

Researchers create system to manipulate atom spacing, tuning friction to a vanishing point, allowing for direct observation of individual atoms. This technique enables control over superlubricity, potentially boosting development of nanomachines, and has implications for controlling biological components.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2015

New tropical tree species await discovery

A global analysis raises the minimum number of tropical tree species to 40,000 to 53,000 globally. The study's findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive conservation efforts due to the high extinction risk faced by rare and localized species.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2015

Recovering predators create new wildlife management challenges

A recent study examines the resurgence of major predators on the US West Coast and in Yellowstone, revealing rising conflicts with humans and other species. The researchers suggest multi-species approaches to address these tensions and develop more effective management strategies.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalConservation Letters·DateJun 4, 2015

Panel recommends improvements in estrogen testing accuracy

The Endocrine Society recommends improving the accuracy of estrogen testing methods for better patient care and research, particularly for hormone-related cancers and chronic conditions. The panel advises standardization of measurements through programs like CDC's.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 4, 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.

Lending a hand, or a paw -- what drives us to help others?

Researchers found that rats made prosocial choices 70% of the time, indicating a preference for helping others. The study suggests that biological mechanisms such as positive feelings and social sensitivity may drive prosocial behavior in both humans and rats.

SourceJLM&A, SA·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 4, 2015

Habitats contracting as fish and coral flee equator

Researchers found that corals and fish are migrating towards Earth's poles in response to climate change, with habitats shrinking as a result. Coral species can only nest in shallower depths at higher latitudes, limiting their range, while fish habitats will contract by about 20% due to decreased oxygen abundance.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2015

Few opportunities to change

A new study reveals that ocean warming and oxygen loss will significantly impact marine life productivity, leading to a decline in species diversity. The researchers have developed a metabolic index to predict climate-related changes in geographic range and productivity for various species.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2015