Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2015 - Page 349


Page 349 of 402

Predicting consumer preferences? Do NOT walk a mile in their shoes

A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research found that marketing managers' attempts to imagine themselves as consumers lead to biased predictions, with their own preferences taking over. The researchers conducted four studies and discovered that by acknowledging this bias, managers can overcome it and make more customer-centric de...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

Shopping vouchers could help 1 in 5 pregnant women quit smoking

A recent study found that financial incentives can encourage one in five pregnant women to quit smoking, with a significant number stopping at least for the duration of their pregnancy. The scheme, which provided vouchers worth up to £752, was successful in motivating many women to quit, with only a small number 'gaming' the system.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAddiction·DateFeb 25, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mechanistic insight into immortal cells could speed clinical use

Researchers deciphered the signaling pathways associated with immortal cells, which work in parallel to suppress terminal differentiation. The discovery enables the use of purified proteins to reduce contamination and accelerate clinical application.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Fossil database to create cross-discipline collaboration

A new open-source resource helps scientists accurately date the tree of life by combining fossil data with DNA sequences, providing minimum ages for groups such as mollusks, penguins, and humans. This will aid in understanding the origin and evolution of biodiversity.

SourceField Museum·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateFeb 25, 2015

Navigators help patients overcome health-care inequities

A Northwestern University study found that community navigators can significantly improve healthcare outcomes for low-income, uninsured Spanish-speaking women. Despite facing numerous barriers, patients in the navigation program had shorter follow-up times and did not experience delayed diagnoses compared to English-speaking counterparts.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 25, 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.

Causes of Great Lakes smelt population decline are complex

Researchers from Purdue University and collaborators found that offspring survival in Lake Michigan is on the rise despite smaller parent size, with potential benefits for juvenile smelt. The study suggests that fewer adults may be allowing hatchlings to thrive due to reduced predation pressure.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

Public perceptions of monkeys affected by the media

A new study reveals that media portrayals of monkeys in human settings increase their desirability as pets and alter public perception. The research, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that such images change the way people perceive these species from wild animals needing conservation help to those suitable as household pets.

SourceLincoln Park Zoo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Sleeping over 8 hours a day associated with greater risk of stroke

A study by the University of Cambridge found that sleeping over 8 hours a day is associated with a greater risk of stroke, particularly for older individuals. The researchers followed 10,000 participants and discovered that those who persistedently slept longer had double the risk of stroke compared to those with average sleep duration.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 25, 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.

Previously unknown effect of vitamin A identified

Researchers discovered that increased levels of retinoic acid reduce blood cell production, while lower levels increase it by 300%. This finding supports the need for pregnant women to limit their vitamin A intake. The study also contributes to the development of artificial blood stem cells for patients with blood disorders.

SourceLund University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 24, 2015

UC Davis leads new effort in functional annotation of animal genomes

The UC Davis project, part of the FAANG Initiative, focuses on functional genomics of chicken, cow, and pig genomes to better understand gene regulation and complex traits. This research aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability by identifying key genetic elements influencing animal development and behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateFeb 24, 2015

Mapping lizard venom makes it possible to develop new drugs

Researchers at Aarhus University have made a comprehensive description of the proteins in gila lizard venom, which could lead to the development of new types of drugs. The study identified nineteen new proteins with potential pharmaceutical applications, including treatments for blood clots and pain relief.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Proteomics·DateFeb 24, 2015

Clarithromycin as an anti-cancer agent

A common antibiotic, clarithromycin, has shown potential as an anti-cancer agent when used in combination with other drugs. Low- and middle-income countries may play a key role in developing this treatment, which could lead to improved patient outcomes.

Sourceecancermedicalscience·Journalecancermedicalscience·DateFeb 24, 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.

New fossil timeline database opens for the tree of life

A new open-source database, Fossil Calibration Database, has been launched to help researchers accurately estimate the origins of all species. The database synthesizes data from the fossil record with molecular evidence, enabling 'molecular dating' studies.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateFeb 24, 2015

Ocean acidification slows algae growth in the Southern Ocean

A study by Alfred Wegener Institute finds that ocean acidification negatively impacts diatom growth in the Southern Ocean, particularly under changing light conditions. Diatoms' biomass production could be drastically reduced in future scenarios with more acidic water.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 24, 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.

Undergraduate OSC researcher heading to UK

Jonathan Timcheck, an Ohio State Honors student, has been awarded a Churchill Scholarship to study applied math at the University of Cambridge. He will leverage his experience with GPUs on OSC's Oakley Cluster to explore cutting-edge mathematical methods for analyzing large datasets.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateFeb 24, 2015

Novel pretreatment could cut biofuel costs by 30 percent or more

A new pretreatment process called Co-solvent Enhanced Lignocellulosic Fractionation (CELF) reduces the need for enzymes in biofuel production by up to 90%, cutting costs by 30% or more. This technology also extracts up to 90% of lignin from biomass, paving the way for additional high-value chemicals and fuels.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalChemSusChem·DateFeb 24, 2015

Do genes play a role in peanut allergies? New study suggests yes

Researchers have identified a region in the human genome associated with peanut allergy in U.S. children, suggesting that genes may contribute to its development. The study also found evidence of epigenetic changes that may influence whether those with genetic susceptibility develop the allergy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 2015

It's tough to shift that weight, McMaster studies show

Recent studies by McMaster University researchers found that preventing weight gain is challenging for all ages, while keeping lost weight off is also tough. Small weight losses, however, can have a positive impact on health.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCMAJ Open·DateFeb 24, 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.

Amelotin molecule plays a critical role in tooth enamel maturation

A study by Bernhard Ganss and colleagues found that amelotin is essential for enamel mineralization and maturation. Ammelotin-deficient mice exhibited weak incisor-edge enamel that fractured and chipped, with delayed enamel mineralization and retention of organic matrix.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateFeb 24, 2015

Optical nanoantennas set the stage for a NEMS lab-on-a-chip revolution

Researchers develop cubic nanoantennas made of insulating materials, overcoming heating and fabrication challenges, enabling applications in biomedicine, nanolasers, and photovoltaics. The antennas have the potential to measure food safety, identify pollutants, diagnose cancer, and transmit data with ultrafast processing.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateFeb 24, 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.

A new look at culture and its influence on individuals and organizations

Polyculturalism rejects traditional models of cultural understanding, instead viewing cultures as networks. It offers new ways to select and train employees for culturally diverse roles and provides insight into how cultures change through intercultural knowledge and relationships.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalAnnual Review of Psychology·DateFeb 24, 2015

Climate-change clues from the turtles of tropical Wyoming

The discovery of a new turtle genus in Wyoming provides insight into how animals may respond to future climate change. Modern-day turtles may struggle to migrate northward due to habitat loss and human pressures, leading to some species' potential extinction.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateFeb 24, 2015

NIH-funded researchers identify genetic region associated with peanut allergy

A genome-wide association study identified a genetic risk area on chromosome 6 linked to peanut allergy in US children of European descent. The study found two closely linked genes, HLA-DR and HLA-DQ, associated with epigenetic changes that may contribute to the development of peanut allergy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 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.

Quick test for Ebola

A new test from MIT researchers uses a simple paper strip to rapidly diagnose Ebola and other viral hemorrhagic fevers, such as yellow fever and dengue fever. The device takes about 10 minutes to produce results, allowing for quicker triage and isolation of patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalLab on a Chip·DateFeb 24, 2015
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.

World's protected natural areas receive 8 billion visits a year

The study reveals that nature-based tourism in protected areas is a significant economic driver, with an estimated annual value of $600 billion. This far surpasses the current spending on safeguarding these sites, which amounts to less than $10 billion annually.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 24, 2015

Even low-androgen triple-negative breast cancer responds to anti-androgen therapy

A new study published in Molecular Cancer Therapeutics shows that a low percentage of androgen-receptor-positive cells in triple-negative breast cancer cells can benefit from anti-androgen therapies. This finding may lead to a larger pool of patients eligible for targeted cancer therapy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateFeb 24, 2015

Primary care residents unlikely to detect hazardous alcohol use

A study of 210 primary care resident physicians found they rarely perform alcohol screening and brief intervention, despite its effectiveness in detecting and reducing unhealthy alcohol use. The researchers suggest that medical school curricula focus on binge drinking rather than chronic dependence.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2015

An evolutionary approach reveals new clues toward understanding the roots of schizophrenia

Researchers found that schizophrenia gene loci are linked to regions called human accelerated regions (HARs) in the genome, which control gene expression. These HAR-associated loci play a key role in regulating genes linked to schizophrenia, particularly those related to neurotransmitter GABA and brain development.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 24, 2015

International team of scientists launches fossil database

A new open-source resource, Fossil Calibration Database, provides carefully vetted fossil data to calibrate molecular clocks and reveal the ages of plant and animal groups. The database addresses the issue of improper use of fossil record data in 'divergence dating,' a field crucial for understanding biodiversity origins.

SourceBruce Museum·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateFeb 24, 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.

Scientists find cancer weak spots for new targeted drugs

Researchers have identified potential targets for precision drugs that exploit cancer cells' inherent weaknesses in DNA repair systems. This discovery could lead to personalized medicine and potentially save thousands of cancer patients from chemotherapy's horrible side effects.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalNature Reviews Cancer·DateFeb 24, 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.

Cyberbystanders: Most don't try to stop online bullies

In a study, 221 college students observed bullying in an online chat room and often judged the abuser indirectly by giving them bad marks or reviews later. Only 10% of students directly intervened, but many expressed regret at not doing so afterwards.

SourceOhio State University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateFeb 24, 2015

Researchers clarify vasospasm incidence in children with moderate to severe TBI

A study published in Critical Care Medicine defines the prevalence, associated factors, and time course of vasospasm in children with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury. The study found that children with higher Injury Severity Scores, fever at admission, and lower Glasgow Coma scores were at increased risk of developing vasospasm.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2015

Cross-cultural communication -- much more than just a linguistic stretch

A study by McGill researchers found that Mandarin-speakers are more likely to interpret emotions through tone of voice, whereas English-language speakers rely on facial expressions. This cultural difference is rooted in the limited eye contact and restrained facial expressions typical of East Asian cultures.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateFeb 24, 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.

Women twice as likely to see pot as risky

A 10-year decline in perception of marijuana risk is reported in a study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health. Women over 50, non-white individuals, and those with lower incomes are more likely to perceive cannabis use as risky.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 24, 2015

Polio vaccination with microneedle patches receives funding

Researchers are developing dissolvable microneedle patches that can provide protection against the poliovirus in humans. The patches, about an inch square, contain 100 vaccine-filled needles and can be applied by minimally-trained personnel, facilitating their use in remote areas.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateFeb 24, 2015

Asphaltene analysis takes a giant step

Asphaltene analysis takes a giant step with the development of an indirect method that detects and measures particles as small as 100 nanometers. This technique can accurately quantify asphaltene precipitation and account for water presence, offering valuable insights into preventing clogs in oil production lines.

SourceRice University·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateFeb 24, 2015

NASA Terra satellite spots new Tropical Cyclone 14S

Tropical Cyclone 14S formed on February 21 in the Southern Indian Ocean, slowly organizing and consolidating. The storm intensified to 35 knots with strong thunderstorms circling its center, forecasters predict it will intensify further over the next three days

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 24, 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.

Marine oil supplement has positive effects on post-exercise muscle damage

A study found that taking a pre-exercise supplement of omega-3 PCSO-524, derived from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel, has significant positive effects on post-exercise muscle damage. The subjects experienced less muscle soreness, pain, strength loss, fatigue, and inflammatory proteins in their bloodstreams.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·DateFeb 24, 2015

Tumor location in colorectal cancer may influence survival

A recent study published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that tumor location in colorectal cancer may influence survival. Patients with left-sided primary tumors had better survival outcomes than those with right-sided tumors, suggesting potential differences in gene expression patterns and cancer biology.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 24, 2015

Patients with mental illness less likely to receive diet, exercise advice

A study found that nearly half of patients with mental illness and a third of those with diabetes were not advised on dietary changes or physical activity. Health care providers may be missing opportunities to counsel high-risk patients about lifestyle modifications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Diabetes Educator·DateFeb 24, 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.