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Science News Archive 2015


Page 378 of 402

Detecting chemical weapons with a color-changing film

A new thin-film material rapidly changes color in response to chemical nerve agents, offering a potential solution for real-time detection of deadly CWAs. This innovation is based on a distinct color change, a technique that could help save lives and hold aggressors accountable.

Concentrating on word sounds helps reading instruction and intervention

A study by University at Buffalo psychologist Chris McNorgan suggests that phonics is crucial for helping identify words during reading. The results indicate that better readers are more sensitive to audio information, which can improve reading instruction and diagnosis of reading disorders such as dyslexia.

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.

Game theory explains social interactions of cancer cells

Researchers used game theory to model cooperation among cancer cells, finding that free-riding cells can outcompete producing ones. Computer simulations and experiments with pancreatic cancer cells validated the predictions, suggesting new insight into cancer dynamics.

New method for identifying most aggressive childhood cancers

Scientists at Lund University have discovered a way to identify the most malignant tumours in children by studying genetic micro-variation. The study found that the degree of genetic variation between cells is linked to the severity of cancer in children, making it a potential marker for predicting treatment outcomes.

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.

Long-necked 'dragon' discovered in China

A new species of long-necked dinosaur, Qijianglong, has been discovered in China with a remarkably lightweight neck and surprisingly stiff joints. The findings suggest that long-necked dinosaurs diversified uniquely in Asia during Jurassic times.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nanoscale mirrored cavities amplify, connect quantum memories

The team constructed tiny mirrors to trap light around impurity atoms in diamond crystals, increasing the efficiency of photon transmission. They demonstrated a spin-coherence time of over 200 microseconds, essential for quantum computing systems and long-range cryptographic networks.

Does getting an 'expensive' drug affect how much patient benefits?

A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that patients with Parkinson's disease experience improved motor skills when receiving an 'expensive' drug, even if it's just a placebo. The study suggests that harnessing the placebo response could enhance treatment benefits and reduce dosage needs.

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.

Chimps with higher-ranking moms do better in fights

A study of 12 years of observations of chimpanzee playground fights found that chimps with higher-ranking moms are more likely to win. However, the mothers did not intervene in most cases, letting their offspring fight their battles for themselves.

Refineries challenge EPA plan to cut emissions

The EPA proposes stricter rules for refineries to reduce emissions, but industry groups dispute the environmental benefits, citing high costs. The EPA claims the revisions will improve air quality and public health in affected communities.

Demystifying nanocrystal solar cells

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a physical model explaining electron transport in nanocrystal solar cells, which could lead to improved efficiency. The model reveals that nanocrystal size can be controlled to optimize absorption of sunlight, enabling the creation of flexible and thin solar cells with higher performance.

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.

Flame retardants linked to preterm birth

Pregnant women exposed to high levels of flame-retardants are more likely to deliver babies early, with over 15 million preterm births occurring annually worldwide. Researchers analyzed blood samples from pregnant women and found a correlation between flame-retardant chemicals and preterm birth.

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.

Schoolgirl comment points to antibiotics as new cancer treatments

Researchers have discovered a way to eradicate cancer stem cells using antibiotics, opening up the possibility of a new treatment for cancer. The study found that four types of antibiotics eradicated cancer stem cells in every test, including glioblastoma and other aggressive forms of cancer.

No direct link found between rising inequality and reduced trust

A recent University of Luxembourg study analyzed European Social Survey data and found no direct link between income inequality and general trust. Key factors influencing trust include beliefs about a society's intrinsic values and perceptions of socio-economic events.

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.

Beer compound could help fend off Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases

Researchers found that xanthohumol, a compound in hops, can protect neuronal cells from oxidative damage, potentially slowing the development of brain disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The study suggests xanthohumol could be a promising candidate for fighting neurodegenerative conditions.

When aid brings conflict, not relief

Research by University of Illinois economist Ben Crost found that aid to villages in the Philippines increased violence. The villages that qualified for aid saw a significant increase in violence, while those that didn't participate experienced less violence. This suggests that aid can inadvertently make communities vulnerable to attacks.

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.

Some older cancer patients can avoid radiotherapy, study finds

A new study published in The Lancet Oncology found that older women with early-stage hormone-receptor positive breast cancers who receive hormone treatment and surgery can safely omit radiotherapy. This group of patients is at low risk of cancer recurrence, making radiotherapy unnecessary.

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.

Fossil skull connects continents

A fossil skull discovered in Israel's Manot Cave provides strong evidence of the first modern human migration to Europe, dating back 55,000 years. The analysis reveals a close genetic relationship between ancient Europeans and modern humans from Africa, challenging previous theories about the origins of European modern humans.

Dutch babies trump US peers in laughing, smiling, cuddling

A new study found that Dutch babies laugh, smile, and cuddle more than their US counterparts. US infants were typically more active and vocal, while Dutch babies demonstrated greater expressions of happiness during routine activities and were easier to calm when upset.

Child maltreatment not a clear path to adult crime

A recent study finds that childhood maltreatment is linked to adult crime, but this effect disappears when accounting for socioeconomic status and later life factors. Protective experiences like high school graduation and marriage can significantly reduce an individual's risk of crime.

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.

NASA measured nor'easter's powerful winds from space

The ISS-RapidScat instrument provided forecasters with wind speed data on the hurricane-force nor'easter. The storm brought heavy snow and blizzard conditions to the Northeast region, with sustained winds reaching up to 35 meters per second (78.2 mph/126 kph).

NASA engineer advances new daytime star tracker

A NASA engineer is developing a low-cost, off-the-shelf solution to track stars during the day, enabling science operations through the day. The precision attitude sensor uses near-infrared wavelength bands and cameras with filtering capabilities to process data in real-time.

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.

Mobile apps take students into the laboratory

Researchers developed mobile applications that allow students to interact with real laboratory equipment, promoting deeper learning and engagement. The apps have been shown to be effective for students with special needs and can accommodate multiple simultaneous connections.

Smothered oceans

A study from the University of California, Davis reveals extreme oxygen loss in oceans around 10,000-17,000 years ago, coinciding with past global climate change. The findings suggest that modern oceans are moving into a state with no precedent in human history.

Did genetic links to modern maladies provide ancient benefits?

A study discovered that genetic variations associated with psoriasis and Crohn's disease are extremely old, predating the evolution of Neanderthals. The research suggests that these genetic features may have played a role in the health and survival of our ancient ancestors.

The electric eye of Cyclone Bansi

Astronauts on ISS captured stunning night image of Cyclone Bansi in January 2015, revealing brilliant lightning around its eye. The cyclone reached category 4 strength before weakening into an extra-tropical system.

Nordic marine scientists push for way forward

Nordic scientists emphasize the need for collaborative approach to address complex ocean changes. The region's oceans are highly sensitive to environmental shifts, with increased temperatures, acidification, and retreating sea ice posing significant challenges.

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.

New protein detonates 'invincible' bacteria from within

Researchers at Tel Aviv University identified a novel protein capable of targeting and inhibiting the activity of a protein essential to bacterial cells. This discovery may strengthen efforts to combat antibiotic-resistant infections and presents a potential breakthrough in the fight against superbugs.

The 2 faces of Mars

A massive celestial object impacted Mars, generating a magma ocean that solidified into the mountainous highlands of the southern hemisphere. This event, occurring around 4-15 million years after Mars' formation, is believed to have triggered volcanic activity and changed the planet's magnetic field.

Results of sun-safety mobile app featured in 2 studies, 1 editorial

A smartphone app improved some sun protection behaviors, including increased shade use and combined use of all sun protection behaviors. However, there was no significant difference in sunburns between groups. Strategies to increase mobile app usage are needed for effective deployment.

New hypertension guidelines could save lives and money

Full implementation of new guidelines could prevent 56,000 cardiovascular disease events and 13,000 deaths annually, with cost-effectiveness found in treating stage 1 hypertension for some patients. Treating women ages 35-44 with stage 1 hypertension without CVD may not be cost-effective.

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.

New cells may help treat diabetes

Scientists at the University of Iowa created human insulin-producing cells that respond to glucose and correct blood-sugar levels in diabetic mice. The findings may represent a step toward developing patient-specific cell replacement therapy for type 1 diabetes.

Manchester United's rising stars revolutionize heart health

A unique research project is using Manchester United's Academy players to investigate the effects of exercise on young hearts. The study aims to identify healthy limits and benefits of exercise for elite athletes, normal children, and those with congenital heart defects.

Damaged DNA may stall patrolling molecule to initiate repair

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago found that damaged DNA can cause a molecule to slow down its patrol, giving it more time to recognize and initiate repair. The protein XPC, important for DNA repair, stalls at damaged sites due to twisted damage, allowing it to open and fix the damage.

Ocean acidification changes balance of biofouling communities

A new study reveals how tiny marine organisms that attach to ships' hulls and rocks respond to ocean acidification. The research found that certain species, such as sea squirts and sponges, increase in number, while others, like hard shell worms, decline significantly.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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