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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 350


Page 350 of 402

Study finds hormone therapy in transgender adults safe

A comprehensive review of hormone therapy in transgender adults has found no significant increase in cancer risk despite previous concerns. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Endocrinology, provides reassurance for individuals requiring hormone treatments, reducing anxiety and increasing access to care.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology·DateFeb 24, 2015

Younger women delay seeking help for heart attacks, study finds

A new study by Yale University found that younger women with heart disease symptoms often delay seeking medical care, citing fears of false alarms. The research highlights the need for education and improved response strategies to empower these women to recognize early symptoms and seek prompt care.

SourceYale University·DateFeb 24, 2015

Renewable energy obtained from wastewater

Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have developed a technology to recover energy from wastewater using MEC, producing hydrogen with high efficiency and low voltage. The system demonstrated excellent results in hydrogen production and energy recovery, opening up potential for industrial-scale development.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalWater Research·DateFeb 24, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Boy or girl? Lemur scents have the answer

Researchers found that pregnant lemur moms carrying boys produce simpler scents with fewer odor compounds compared to those carrying girls. The change in scent patterns correlates with changes in blood hormone levels. The study provides the first evidence of a pregnant mother's scent differing depending on the sex of her baby.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 24, 2015

NASA adds up Tropical Cyclone Marcia's Queensland area rainfall

Tropical Cyclone Marcia caused significant flooding and damage in eastern Queensland with rainfall totals reaching up to 300-350mm. The merged precipitation analysis from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center indicates heaviest rainfall areas were off-shore from Lismore, Byron Bay, and Mackay.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 24, 2015

Stellate cells in the liver control regeneration and fibrosis

A new molecule, endosialin, on hepatic stellate cells drives liver fibrosis by activating these cells. However, its absence improved the regenerative capacity of remaining liver cells without proliferating them. This finding helps understand how liver fibrosis develops and may lead to treatments for other diseases.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·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.

Easy on the eyes: How eyelash length keeps your eyes healthy

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that animals and humans have similar lash lengths, which control airflow around the eye. The ideal ratio is one-third the eye width, reducing dust and increasing moisture retention.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 24, 2015

Pew names 5 new marine conservation fellows for 2015

The Pew Charitable Trusts has named five distinguished scientists and conservationists from Canada, Australia, Russia, and the UK as 2015 recipients of the Pew fellowship in marine conservation. They will conduct research projects addressing key ocean conservation challenges including bycatch reduction and coral reef protection.

SourcePew Charitable Trusts, Ocean Science·DateFeb 24, 2015

Geysers have loops in their plumbing

A recent study by UC Berkeley professor Michael Manga found that geysers erupt periodically due to underground loops and side-chambers that trap steam bubbles. The study suggests that these underground features heat the water column above, eventually leading to sudden boiling and pressure release.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research·DateFeb 24, 2015

Crocs rocked pre-Amazonian Peru

A new study has uncovered seven different species of crocodiles co-existing in the same place and time, filling gaps in understanding the Amazon's rich biodiversity. The research suggests that a peak in mollusk diversity was correlated with the rise of 'durophagous' crocodiles, which went extinct when the mega-wetlands transformed.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·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.

Communicating emotions

Researchers at McGill University found that visual cues are crucial in recognizing emotions conveyed by music, whereas speech relies on acoustic cues. In their study, participants identified emotions better with video and audio combined compared to just audio or speech alone.

SourceMcGill University·JournalQuarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology·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.

NASA satellite reveals how much Saharan dust feeds Amazon's plants

A NASA satellite has quantified in three dimensions how much dust makes its trans-Atlantic journey from the Sahara to the Amazon rain forest. An estimated 22,000 tons of phosphorus-rich Saharan dust are carried across the ocean each year, equivalent to about the same amount lost from rain and flooding.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 24, 2015

Ultra-thin nanowires can trap electron 'twisters' that disrupt superconductors

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have developed a method to control individual vortices in nanowires, trapping them and maintaining resistance-free current in superconductors. This breakthrough has the potential to enhance the performance of devices such as MRI scanners, particle accelerators, and future quantum computers.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·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.

New, useful feature of Moringa seeds revealed

Researchers at Uppsala University discovered that Moringa seed protein can be used to separate different materials from water, a process important in mining industries. The study found that the optimal amount of seeds needed varies depending on the material, allowing for more efficient separation.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·DateFeb 24, 2015

Financial incentives show no overall effect on viral suppression: May influence control of HIV in some clinical settings

A new study by the HIV Prevention Trials Network found that financial incentives had no significant overall impact on achieving viral suppression among HIV-positive patients. However, specific clinical settings such as hospital-based clinics and those with lower patient engagement saw enhanced viral suppression rates. The study also sh...

SourceHIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN)·DateFeb 24, 2015

SOHO sees something new near the sun

A unique comet, not part of a known family, survives its trip to within 2.2 million miles of the sun's surface. This is one of the few instances where a comet has been observed and recorded by SOHO in recent years.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 24, 2015

Detecting defects at the nanoscale will profit solar panel production

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have developed a new metrology system to detect tiny defects in thin films, crucial for printed electronics and solar panels. The NanoMend project aims to reduce cost and increase reliability of flexible PV cells, paving the way for wider adoption of renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalInternational Journal of Energy Optimization and Engineering·DateFeb 24, 2015
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Garlic extract could help cystic fibrosis patients fight infection

Researchers found that garlic extract's allicin component inhibits bacterial growth and kills certain plant pathogens, potentially offering a new treatment option for people with cystic fibrosis. The study suggests using allicin-containing remedies in combination with existing antibiotics to treat life-threatening lung infections.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 24, 2015

Why a latte is less likely to spill than a coffee

Princeton scientists discovered that foam significantly dampens liquid sloshing by absorbing energy through friction with container walls. The team's research has applications beyond breakfast beverages, including safer transport of hazardous liquids.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 24, 2015

'Patchwork' ovarian cancer more deadly

A Cancer Research UK study found that serous ovarian cancers with diverse genetic profiles are more likely to become resistant to chemotherapy and recur. This variability affects the prognosis of patients with these tumors, leading to earlier deaths compared to those with less varied tumors.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2015

Key genes for symbiosis between mycorrhiza fungi and trees evolved several times

An international team analyzed 49 fungal genomes, revealing that key genome adaptation enabling symbiosis evolved independently in numerous lines of fungi. The study provides crucial information on how symbiosis between fungi and trees evolved, enabling scientists to improve prediction of reaction to environmental modifications.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 24, 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.

Unexpected outcomes for elderly couples who stop driving

A University of Missouri researcher found that even if one spouse stops driving, the other is less likely to work or volunteer. This decline in activity can occur even when the other partner can still drive. Planning for alternative transportation options is crucial to minimize negative consequences.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalResearch on Aging·DateFeb 24, 2015

New Florida Tech study links coral disease to a warming Atlantic

A new study from Florida Institute of Technology finds that ocean warming has played a significant role in the decline of iconic elkhorn and staghorn corals. The research suggests that curbing greenhouse gas emissions could support the recovery of these critical reef-building corals.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 24, 2015

Sea level spiked for 2 years along northeastern North America

A team of researchers found that sea levels rose by an average of four inches along the Northeast Coast from New York to Newfoundland, causing flooding independent of hurricanes or winter storms. The extreme increase was linked to changes in ocean circulation and the North Atlantic Oscillation.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 2015

Bribery 'hits 1.6 billion people a year'

A new book reveals that nearly a quarter of the global population, 1.6 billion people, are compelled to pay bribes for everyday public services. The surveys conducted across 119 countries highlight differences in bribery rates between countries, public services, and individuals.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·DateFeb 23, 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.

New study finds same patient mortality rates for experienced and new surgeons

A recent study using a new statistical methodology found that the patient mortality rates of new and experienced surgeons are similar. However, researchers emphasize that further studies are necessary to confirm these findings and account for other factors, such as changes in surgical training practices and patient demographics.

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·JournalJournal of the American Statistical Association·DateFeb 23, 2015

Disparities in breast cancer care linked to net worth

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that household net worth, rather than just income, plays a significant role in determining breast cancer patients' ability to afford treatment. The study suggests that physicians and health insurers need to consider this economic variable to ensure equitable care.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 23, 2015

Bacteria network for food

Scientists discovered that bacteria use direct connections to exchange nutrients, rather than releasing them into the environment. The study found that gut microbe E. coli forms unique nanotubes to connect with other bacteria.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

Great Barrier Reef corals eat plastic

Researchers at James Cook University have discovered that Great Barrier Reef corals will consume microplastic pollution. The study found that the corals eat plastic particles at rates only slightly lower than their normal rate of feeding on marine plankton.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalMarine Biology·DateFeb 23, 2015

Research shows that sea urchins, sand dollars thrived with time

A new study on echinoids shows that evolutionary rates were lowest at the group's onset and increased over time through bursts associated with changes in feeding strategies. This challenges traditional views of evolution, suggesting a more complex history for many clades.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2015
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.

3-D printed, mechanically robust carrier used to deliver immunosuppressive drug, and cells

Researchers developed a 3D-printed carrier that retains its shape and integrity, delivering immunosuppressive drug cyclosporine A and cells for local and sustained release. The system overcomes existing delivery limitations, providing a promising solution for treating diseases requiring cell-based therapy.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateFeb 23, 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.

Study outlines threat of ocean acidification to coastal communities in US

A new report warns that US coastal communities dependent on the $1 billion shelled mollusk industry face long-term economic risks from ocean acidification. The analysis identified several 'hot zones' facing a number of risk factors, including the Pacific Northwest and Gulf of Mexico regions.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 23, 2015

Working in an interventional laboratory may lead to health problems

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that frequent radiation exposure and heavy protective gear are associated with increased musculoskeletal pain among technicians and nurses. Researchers recommend improving ergonomic evaluations and rotation to mitigate these effects.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 23, 2015

Two NYU faculty win Sloan Foundation research fellowships

New York University faculty members Michael Halassa and Jennifer Jacquet have been awarded Sloan Foundation research fellowships to advance their groundbreaking research in neuroscience and environmental science. Their studies aim to crack the neural code of sensory input and explore large-scale cooperation dilemmas, with potential imp...

SourceNew York University·DateFeb 23, 2015
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Researchers pin down genetic pathways linked to CF disease severity

A study by UNC School of Medicine researchers identified genetic pathways that play a major role in determining the severity of cystic fibrosis. The findings may lead to new personalized treatments to lessen pulmonary symptoms and increase life expectancy for people with CF.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 23, 2015

MD Anderson studies skin cancer patients resistant to leading therapy

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified unique 'protein patterns' in melanoma patients to predict resistance to BRAF inhibitors. These patterns may help guide personalized treatment decisions, including targeted agents or immunotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 23, 2015

Simulating superconducting materials with ultracold atoms

A team of researchers at Rice University has successfully simulated superconducting materials using ultracold atoms, observing antiferromagnetic order in the process. The simulation is based on the Hubbard model, a set of mathematical equations that could explain high-temperature superconductivity.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateFeb 23, 2015

Brain makes decisions with same method used to break WW2 Enigma code

Researchers at Columbia University find that brain neurons apply Wald's sequential probability ratio test to make simple decisions, just like Alan Turing did with the Enigma code. This neural implementation of the test allows for rapid weighing of probabilities and rational decision-making.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 23, 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.

Carnivorous plant packs big wonders into tiny genome

A new study reveals that carnivorous bladderwort Utricularia gibba packs an impressive number of genes into its tiny genome, outperforming well-known plant species. The plant's unique genetic architecture allows it to thrive in aquatic environments, boasting floating branches and miniature traps that capture prey using vacuum pressure.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 23, 2015