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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 340


Page 340 of 402

Solar cells get growth boost

Researchers at OIST discovered that growing Perovskite films in ambient air instead of a nitrogen atmosphere results in larger grain sizes, making solar cells more efficient. The study's findings could significantly reduce costs associated with climate control machinery.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateMar 4, 2015

Cities have a memory and interact with their neighbors

Research reveals that cities in Spain have a 15-year memory, while those in the US have a 25-year memory, influenced by historical events. The study also shows that city growth is linked to neighboring cities and their surrounding areas.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMar 4, 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.

Where you live could mean 'greener' alternatives do more harm than good

A new study proposes a decision-making threshold for electrification, which can increase or lower carbon emissions depending on the region's electricity production. Regions with high-carbon electricity production, such as China and Australia, may actually experience increased emissions when transitioning to electric-powered technologie...

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 4, 2015

Mental health soon after war-zone concussions predicts disability

Researchers found that early post-traumatic stress symptoms are the strongest predictors of later disability in military personnel with mild brain injuries. A study evaluated 38 patients with mild blast-related brain injury and 34 controls, showing that mental health assessments soon after injury were more predictive of long-term disab...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalBrain·DateMar 4, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Obesity is associated with brain's neurotransmitters

Researchers found altered opioid neurotransmission in obese individuals, with reduced opioid receptors in the brain. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms of overeating and obesity, but its findings do not indicate whether the changes are a cause or consequence of obesity.

SourceAalto University·DateMar 4, 2015

Time for balance? Preventing atypical femoral fractures related to bisphosphonates

Recent articles in JBJS publications examine the relationship between bisphosphonates and atypical femoral fractures. Prodromal thigh pain, radiolucent lines on X-rays, and prolonged bisphosphonate use are indicators of an impending fracture. Conservative management with discontinuation and weight-bearing is recommended.

SourceJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·JournalJBJS Reviews·DateMar 4, 2015

Kids and robots learn to write together

Researchers developed a robot-based writing tool called CoWriter that helps children improve their handwriting and writing skills. The program uses learning by teaching, a recognized principle in pedagogy, and has been tested with over 70 students aged 6-8 years old.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateMar 4, 2015

Air pollution connected with narrowing of the arteries

Research suggests chronic exposure to air pollution increases the risk of stroke by causing fatty substances to build up in the neck arteries. The study found those living in areas with high levels of fine particulate matter had a 24% greater risk of carotid artery stenosis compared to those in cleaner areas.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 4, 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.

Novel approach helps prevent early menopause in breast cancer patients, study finds

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that adding goserelin to chemotherapy regimens can significantly reduce the risk of early menopause and improve fertility in young breast cancer patients. Women who took goserelin had a higher pregnancy rate and were more likely to deliver healthy babies.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 4, 2015

New protein booster may lead to better DNA vaccines and gene therapy

Scientists have discovered a new way to manipulate how cells function, improving the efficiency of DNA vaccines and gene therapy. The new method boosts protein production by up to 20 times, potentially leading to stronger immune responses and reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2015

Choice of monitoring method could be key for babies with poor growth in the womb

A recent study published in the Lancet found that babies with severely restricted growth in the womb who were monitored using late ductus venosus changes had better neurodevelopmental outcomes than those who were monitored using other techniques. The researchers recommend that these babies should be supervised in specialist centers whe...

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 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.

Personalized health coaching helps reverse progression to diabetes

A comprehensive health program with personalized coaching on exercise, nutrition, stress, and sleep helped people with prediabetes reverse their condition and improve overall health. Participants showed significant improvements in blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and other key risk factors.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 4, 2015
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.

Usual prey gone, a fish survives by changing predictably

Researchers found that bigmouth sleepers adapt by changing their behaviors, sex ratio, and physical appearance to survive on insects, snails, and crustaceans when isolated from their normal prey. The study suggests that evolution may be occurring in a predictable way, with the ability to anticipate ecological changes.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateMar 4, 2015

New models yield clearer picture of emissions' true costs

A new Duke University study estimates that a gallon of gasoline costs around $3.80 more than the pump price when health and environment are factored in. The social cost of diesel is about $4.80 more, while natural gas becomes cheaper than its initial price. Solar and wind power also become cheaper.

SourceDuke University·JournalClimatic Change·DateMar 4, 2015

Galactic 'rain' could be key to star formation

A team of astronomers has found that galactic 'rain' may be the key to understanding why some galaxies are more productive at creating stars than others. The researchers analyzed X-rays from over 200 galaxy clusters using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and discovered that massive black holes can slow down gas that helps form stars.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 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.

Oxytocin may enhance social function in psychiatric disorders

Researchers at Yerkes National Primate Research Center have shown that inducing oxytocin release can activate the social brain and create bonds. A new drug candidate has been identified to stimulate oxytocin cells, leading to enhanced attention to and learning from social information in people with social disorders.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateMar 4, 2015

New study reveals widespread risk of infectious diseases to wild bees

Researchers have discovered a network of viruses that pose a threat to multiple species of bumblebees and managed honeybees, highlighting the urgent need for disease management strategies. The study found five viruses, including deformed wing virus, in wild bees across Great Britain.

SourceRoyal Holloway, University of London·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 4, 2015

Can exercise training prevent premature death in elderly?

A new study suggests that exercise training can reduce the risk of premature death in elderly individuals. The Norwegian University of Science and Technology study found that high-intensity training and moderate intensity training both showed promising results in improving fitness levels and reducing mortality rates.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 4, 2015

Common antidepressant may hold the key to heart failure reversal

Researchers found that paroxetine, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, restored heart function in mice with heart failure by inhibiting the GRK2 enzyme. The study's findings suggest that physicians may consider prescribing paroxetine to heart failure patients with clinical depression to improve their heart function.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 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.

History holds valuable lessons in the war on drugs

This groundbreaking research sheds light on the complex origins of drug policies that have inspired murderous violence in Mexico and the US. By examining the history of drugs in Latin America, researchers offer new perspectives on how societies have dealt with drugs and their cultural significance.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalHispanic American Historical Review·DateMar 4, 2015

Often-ignored glucose value in routine blood tests correlates with risk of type 2 diabetes

A study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that a single elevated random blood glucose value is a strong risk factor for diabetes. Individuals with values above 100 mg/dL were up to 30 times more likely to have undiagnosed diabetes, highlighting the importance of considering these often-overlooked values.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateMar 4, 2015

Activating genes on demand

Scientists have developed a new mechanism for engineering traits governed by multiple genes, paving the way for personalized gene therapies and regenerative medicine. The approach uses the Cas9 protein to activate specific genes, allowing for precise control over multiple genes and potentially treating diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 4, 2015

UT Dallas technology could make night vision, thermal imaging affordable

Engineers at UT Dallas have created a semiconductor technology that can detect electromagnetic waves to create images at nearly 10 terahertz, making night vision and heat-based imaging more accessible. This breakthrough could enable various applications such as animal tracking, intruder detection, and building inspection.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateMar 4, 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.

Dog DNA tests alone not enough for healthy pedigree, experts say

Breeding dogs solely based on DNA tests can increase inbreeding and reduce genetic diversity, experts warn. A combined approach of DNA analysis, health screening, and pedigree information is necessary to minimize inherited diseases and improve the health of pedigree lines.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCanine Genetics and Epidemiology·DateMar 4, 2015

Next-generation sequencing and Droplet Digital™ PCR accurately determine copy number states for multiallelic copy number variations

Researchers used next-generation sequencing and Bio-Rad's Droplet Digital PCR technology to accurately count diverse copy number states of multiallelic copy number variations (mCNVs) in humans. The study found that mCNVs are responsible for nearly 90% of observed differences in gene copy number, contributing substantially to gene expre...

SourceCG Life·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 3, 2015

Grand tree of life study shows a clock-like trend in new species emergence and diversity

A massive study reveals life has been expanding at a constant rate, with new species emerging every 2 million years on average. The 'Time Tree of Life' challenges the traditional notion that adaptation drives speciation, instead highlighting the importance of random genetic events and geographic isolation.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMar 3, 2015

The taming of magnetic vortices

Physicists at TUM and University of Cologne develop theoretical description of behavior for magnetic vortices in conductors, semiconductors, and insulators. The theory predicts properties for optimal device development, promising compact frequency devices with high efficiency.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 3, 2015

Float like a mosquito, sting like a ... mosquito

Scientists at China University of Petroleum and Liaoning University of Technology studied mosquito legs to understand their unique adaptation to float on water. They found that the tarsus's buoyant horizontal contact with the surface generates an upward force twenty times the insect's body weight.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMar 3, 2015
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.

Identifying the war-afflicted teenagers most in need of mental health care

A new study reveals high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression among war-afflicted teenagers in Northern Uganda, with former child soldiers showing the highest rates. The study suggests that psychological support should be offered through the education system to all young people in the region.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 2015

Plants detect bacterial endotoxin in similar process to mammals

Researchers discovered a plant immunosensor that detects lipopolysaccharide, a substance occurring in pathogenic bacteria. The LipoOligosaccharide-specific Reduced Elicitation (LORE) protein initiates an immune response in plants, similar to the toll-like receptor 4 in mammals.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 3, 2015

Women in business

A UC Santa Barbara study finds that people systematically discount the competence of female entrepreneurs and investment-worthiness of their enterprises, but innovation mitigates this bias. Women-led businesses pitched innovative ideas are rated more competent and worthy of investment than non-innovative counterparts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalSocial Forces·DateMar 3, 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.

Global Atlas of Environmental Justice re-launches website

The EJOLT project has re-launched the Global Atlas of Environmental Justice with a new platform that integrates geo-spatial data to present conflicts in context. The updated website expands its coverage, featuring almost 1400 cases of environmental conflicts across all continents.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·DateMar 3, 2015

UT Arlington award will test bridge foundation work for Caltrans

A University of Texas at Arlington researcher has been awarded a $220,000 Caltrans project to analyze and evaluate California's bridge foundations for safety and compliance with federal AASHTO standards. The research will also consider external factors such as vehicle load, weight, speed, and earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMar 3, 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.

Climate change affects human health, ATS membership survey shows

A recent ATS membership survey found that 89% of respondents believe climate change is happening, while 68% attribute its causes to human activity. The survey also reported adverse health effects such as worsening asthma and increased cases of acute and chronic lung conditions due to climate change.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateMar 3, 2015

A high-salt diet could protect against invading microbes

A study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that a high-salt diet can increase sodium accumulation in the skin, boosting the immune response to skin-infecting parasites. This finding suggests that dietary salt may have therapeutic potential in promoting host defense against microbial infections.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 3, 2015

UGR scientists provide new data on the nature of dark matter

Researchers from UGR have set limits to the properties of axions, which aspire to be identified as dark matter. The study uses numerical simulations of stellar evolution and suggests that axion emission can significantly affect the timing of helium burning in stars.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 3, 2015

Housing First program has success in study of homeless people with mental illness

A new study by St. Michael's Hospital found that homeless individuals with mental illness who received rent supplement support and intensive case management had significantly higher rates of stable housing (62.7-77%) compared to those receiving standard care (23.6-38.8%). The Housing First program resulted in a net cost offset of $4,84...

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateMar 3, 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.

Lightning plus volcanic ash makes glass

Researchers have discovered a mechanism for generating glass spherules through the combination of lightning and volcanic ash. The study, published in Geology, reveals that high heat generated by lightning discharge can transform volcanic ash particles into spheres of glass, forming fulgurites in geologic deposits.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 3, 2015

Friends may make the difference in keeping children active

A new study by the American Heart Association found that children being physically active with friends may accomplish more than hearing encouragement from family members. Friends getting involved significantly lowers perceived barriers to physical activity.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateMar 3, 2015

Listeria screening in public lavatories in Vienna

A study by the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna found Listeria monocytogenes in 2% of lavatory samples, highest at park facilities and mobile container lavatories. Shoes with deeper treads show higher prevalence rates.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalZoonoses and Public Health·DateMar 3, 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.

Study identifies first-ever human population adaptation to toxic chemical, arsenic

A study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution identifies a key set of nucleotide variants in the AS3MT gene, which are associated with increased resistance to arsenic. These protective variants were found at higher frequencies in Andean women, who have been exposed to high levels of arsenic for thousands of years.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMar 3, 2015

Magnetic vortices in nanodisks reveal information

Scientists have found a method to electrically read out the orientation of magnetic vortices in nanodisks using characteristic microwaves. This knowledge could be used in novel memory technology and wireless data transmission.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2015

Breakthrough in particle control creates special half-vortex rotation

Researchers at the University of Strathclyde and Pittsburgh created a 'ring geometry' form using polaritons, resulting in a highly specialized half-vortex rotation. This achievement marks a significant step towards the development of new quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2015

Advanced Laser Light Source at INRS receives major funding from CFI

The Advanced Laser Light Source at INRS has received significant funding to advance its mission as an international center of excellence in ultrafast science. With this new investment, the facility will continue to explore fundamental questions in physics and chemistry through high-quality light sources.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateMar 3, 2015

Scientists map memorable tunes in the rat brain

Researchers used a rat model to map the brain's communication between nerve cells as they learned to make decisions based on specific sounds. The study found that training rats to associate low frequency tones with food strengthened synaptic connections in the striatum, leading to improved performance.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2015
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.