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Science News Archive 2015


Page 348 of 402

DARPA contract to fund exploration of hard-to-find information on the web

Juliana Freire is developing scalable techniques for traditional search engines, enabling focused crawling for tracking criminal activities and integrating crawling with search and data analysis. Her research also aims to address human trafficking, a key Defense Department mission with a significant web presence.

Oat breakfast cereals may contain a common mold-related toxin

A study by American Chemical Society researchers found that oat-based breakfast cereals exceeded EU standards for ochratoxin A levels in 8% of samples. The findings highlight the need for improved oat production, storage, and processing to protect consumer health.

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.

Electric-car driving range and emissions depend on where you live

Scientists found that electric car driving range and emissions differ greatly depending on regional energy sources and climate, with extreme temperatures affecting battery efficiency. The study's analysis revealed that geographical differences can influence the energy implications of electric vehicles.

Helmet add-ons may not lower concussion risk in athletes

Researchers evaluated four football helmet add-ons, including Guardian Cap and Concussion Reduction Technology, which showed limited impact on reducing concussion risk. The study found that helmets with these add-ons reduced linear accelerations by about 11 percent but had little effect on angular accelerations.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Penn vet researchers identify effective treatment for Niemann Pick Type C

A study published in Science Translational Medicine shows that treating cats with Niemann Pick Type C with cyclodextrin significantly improved their neurological symptoms. The treatment halted disease progression and allowed the cats to live past three years of age, making it a promising potential therapy for human patients.

Frequent sauna use protects men against cardiac death

A 20-year follow-up study found that frequent sauna use can reduce the risk of cardiac death in men. Men who used saunas 4-7 times a week were 63% less likely to experience sudden cardiac death compared to those using them once a week. Longer sauna sessions also reduced cardiovascular risks.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Should smoking be banned in UK parks?

Extending UK anti-smoking legislation to parks and squares aims to support healthy lifestyle choices, particularly among young people. The proposal is based on evidence from successful smoking bans worldwide, which have been shown to reduce smoking prevalence and improve public health.

Heart's inner mechanisms to be studied with NIH grant

The grant will allow Cui to analyze mechanisms underlying potassium ion channel properties and develop targeted treatments for cardiac arrhythmia. He aims to understand a novel mechanism behind Long QT syndrome, which can be fatal.

Researchers enable solar cells to use more sunlight

A team of researchers from the University of Luxembourg and TDK has improved a conductive oxide film to increase transparency in the infrared region, enabling solar cells to harness more sunlight. The breakthrough allows for stable films that retain conductivity after exposure to air for over a year.

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.

Warning on use of drug for children's sleep

Researchers at the University of Adelaide warn against giving melatonin to children to treat sleep problems, citing lack of rigorous safety studies and potential interactions with other medications. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates circadian rhythms in adults but its use for children's sleep is unregulated in the US.

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.

Consumer behavior and free trials: What makes a customer stay?

A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research found that free trial customers have a distinct relationship with service providers, forming a less-developed bond. This can be leveraged by firms targeting these customers with personalized marketing communication and information on their usage behavior to encourage retention.

New nanowire structure absorbs light efficiently

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a new method to combine different types of nanowires into a single array, improving absorption efficiency. The dual-type nanowire arrays show better light coupling and reduced reflection, making them suitable for applications such as solar cells and LEDs.

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.

Graphene shows potential as novel anti-cancer therapeutic strategy

Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered that graphene oxide can selectively target and neutralize cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are responsible for cancer spread and recurrence. The study suggests that graphene oxide could be used as a non-toxic anti-cancer agent in combination with existing treatments.

Sharp rise in experimental animal research in US

The study found a sharp rise in the use of mice and unregulated species in US laboratory research, contradicting industry claims and government efforts. The data highlights the need for greater transparency and efforts to curb animal use in scientific research.

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.

Do long sleepers have an increased risk of stroke?

A new study published in Neurology found that people who sleep more than eight hours a night have an increased risk of stroke. Those who shifted from sleeping less than six hours a night to more than eight hours were nearly four times as likely to have a stroke.

The body's 'Transformers'

A study by UCSB scientists examined the unique properties of tau, a critical protein in neurons that can form clumps associated with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that exposing tau to certain chemicals, such as urea, could prevent aggregation, while another compound, TMAO, accelerated it.

Study IDs key birds that host Lyme disease bacteria in California

A study published in PLOS ONE identified wood rats and western gray squirrels as hosts for Lyme disease-causing bacteria in California, but birds were found to be more important than previously recognized. The study also discovered a new subtype of Lyme disease spirochete, Borrelia bissettii, in birds for the first time in California.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

International marketing: Are store brands becoming a global phenomenon?

A new study found that countries with modernized marketing systems and supermarkets are best positioned to lower prices on store brands. Businesses in these nations face challenges finding quality suppliers and efficient transportation systems. As a result, store brands will inevitably become a global phenomenon.

Epigenetic 'switch' regulates RNA-protein interactions

Researchers discovered that epigenetic modifications to mRNA act as a structural switch allowing RNA-binding proteins to recognize inaccessible regions. This phenomenon, known as the m6A switch, affects practically all RNA-protein interactions, with widespread implications for gene expression and regulation.

Hidden gene gives hope for improving brain function

Researchers found that the Gomafu gene is dynamically regulated in the adult brain, affecting behavior related to anxiety and schizophrenia. The discovery sheds light on the gene's potential as a surveillance system for rapid brain responses to environmental changes.

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.

Future vehicles will be virtually tested before the first prototype is built

Researchers at Umeå University's UMIT Research Lab have developed a new virtual testing technology for future vehicles, reducing development time and costs. This innovation is expected to improve fuel efficiency, manoeuvrability, and safety in vehicles by simulating real-world scenarios before the first prototype is built.

Unusual disease that causes acute confusion may be underdiagnosed

Susac syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease causing acute confusion, hearing problems, and eyesight issues. It is often misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis or ADEM, but may be considered in young patients with unexplained acute onset of confusion and abnormal spinal fluid tests

Found: Ancient, super-bright quasar with massive black hole

Astronomers have found a super-bright quasar powered by the most massive black hole ever observed for an object from that time, located at a distance of 12.8 billion light years away. The quasar is 7 times brighter than the most distant known quasar and has a luminosity of 420 trillion solar units.

Shining new light on vascular diseases in diabetics

Researchers have developed a novel vascular optical tomographic imaging system to improve the diagnosis and monitoring of peripheral artery disease in diabetics. The system uses near-infrared light to map hemoglobin concentration, revealing perfusion issues in extremities.

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.

Why companies don't learn from their mistakes

A study by economists from Friedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena found that three out of four customer complaints are not passed on to line managers, despite specific regulations in place. The researchers recommend training employees on the importance of forwarding complaints and developing incentives for their participation.

Monster black hole discovered at cosmic dawn

Researchers have discovered the brightest quasar in the early universe, powered by a massive 12 billion solar mass black hole. The quasar's luminosity is equivalent to 420 trillion suns and is seven times brighter than the most distant known quasar.

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.

Using 'fuzzy logic' to optimize hybrid solar/battery systems

A team of researchers has developed a new sizing system for hybrid photovoltaic panel/battery systems using fuzzy logic, which can determine optimal panel surfaces and battery capacity. The system was verified through simulations and demonstrated effectiveness in optimizing cost and losses.

The future is looking less cloudy

Tel Aviv University researchers have discovered a practical solution to fog detection using cellular communication networks. The study utilizes higher cellular frequencies to detect even light fog, providing high-resolution spatial measurements and potentially reducing accidents. Current fog monitoring tools are insufficient, but the n...

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.

How the landscape of the pancreatic cancer genome is coming into view

A study of 100 pancreatic cancer genomes identifies four subtypes, including 'stable', 'locally rearranged', 'scattered', and 'unstable' genomes. The analysis suggests that patients with 'unstable' genomes respond well to platinum-based drugs and PARP inhibitors, offering a promising lead for personalized treatment.

Researchers demonstrate optogenetic stimulation of the brain to control pain

Scientists at UT Arlington discovered that optogenetically stimulating a small area of the brain, specifically the anterior cingulate cortex, can significantly reduce pain behavior in lab mice. This breakthrough could lead to new strategies for managing chronic pain and improving our understanding of pain pathways.

Antifreeze protein from ticks fights frostbite in mice

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a protein found in ticks that can prevent frostbite in mice. The antifreeze protein, when introduced into mouse cells or whole live mice, showed significant protection against frostbite, with 60% of treated mice showing no visible signs of damage.

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.

Molecular feedback loop gives clues to how flowers drop their petals

Researchers identified a positive feedback loop between genes and proteins that regulates floral abscission, allowing plants to shed petals. The study, supported by the National Science Foundation, provides new insights into plant development and responses to environmental cues.