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Science News Archive 2015


Page 392 of 402

Combat veterans' brains reveal hidden damage from IED blasts

A study by Johns Hopkins pathologists identified a unique pattern of injuries in the brains of combat veterans who survived IED blasts and later died. The honeycomb pattern of damaged nerve fibers is distinct from other types of brain injury, suggesting a possible signature of 'shell shock' or blast neurotrauma.

Researchers discover new 'trick' steroids use to suppress inflammation

Glucocorticoids suppress inflammation by targeting nuclear factor-κB and upregulating IRAK-M, a key negative regulator of inflammatory pathways. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanism of glucocorticoid action and could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for controlling overactive inflammation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stargazers begin hunt for planets

The University of Warwick's Next Generation Transit Survey (NGTS) aims to detect small planets from Neptune size down to twice the size of Earth. Researchers hope to study the atmospheres and composition of these super-Earths, which are thought to be common around other stars.

A twist on planetary origins

Researchers at MIT and Purdue University have found that meteorites are not building blocks of planets, but rather byproducts of a violent planetary process. Computer simulations show that large moon-sized bodies likely existed before chondrules formed, which were then created by collisions of these bodies.

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 contaminants found in oil and gas wastewater

Duke University scientists have discovered high levels of ammonium and iodide in oil and gas wastewater, exceeding EPA water-quality thresholds. These contaminants can harm aquatic life and promote toxic byproducts in drinking water when mixed with chlorine.

Scientists developing imaging test for autism spectrum disorder

Researchers at Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute have developed a brain-imaging technique that can detect autism spectrum disorder in children. The test, which involves measuring perspective-tracking responses, has shown promising diagnostic potential and may revolutionize the way autism is diagnosed.

Dehydration common among patients admitted to hospital from care homes

A study published by the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine found that 12% of patients admitted from care homes had high sodium levels, compared to 1% from their own homes. Dehydration is a significant concern for elderly and infirm people who may require assistance with drinking.

One punch to knock out flu

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antibodies that can neutralize a wide range of influenza A viruses, paving the way for a universal flu vaccine. The vaccine would only need to be given once and could protect against all strains of flu, even when the virus mutates.

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.

Rapid journey through a crystal lattice

Electrons in a crystal lattice move at incredible speeds, with one type of electron traveling at 5000 km/s. By studying the delay between electrons traveling through different atomic layers, researchers gained insight into the behavior of electrons within the crystal's microcosm.

Depression, behavioral changes may precede memory loss in Alzheimer's

A recent study published in Neurology found that depression and behavioral changes often occur before memory decline in people with Alzheimer's. Researchers analyzed data from over 2,400 participants and found that those who developed dementia were more likely to exhibit mood swings, including depression and delusions.

Root hydraulic conductance linked to trees' post-transplant recovery

Researchers found that fine root hydraulic conductance is related to transplant recovery in two Quercus species, with spring transplanting optimal for Quercus bicolor. The study suggests that understanding tree roots' behavior can inform better decisions regarding transplant timing and improve post-transplant recovery.

A new step towards using graphene in electronic applications

Researchers have successfully created heterostructures with varying widths of graphene nanoribbons using molecular self-assembly. This breakthrough could lead to the deployment of graphene in commercial electronic applications, taking advantage of its unique properties.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Out of the pouch: Ancient DNA from extinct giant roos

Scientists successfully extracted DNA from Australia's extinct giant kangaroos, confirming their close relationship with modern macropods. The study also sheds light on the distinct lineage of short-faced kangaroos and highlights the importance of conservation for endangered species like the banded hare-wallaby.

Lack of exercise responsible for twice as many deaths as obesity

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that physical inactivity is responsible for twice as many deaths as obesity. The researchers analyzed data from over 334,000 European men and women and found that even a small increase in physical activity can have significant health benefits.

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.

Are all rattlesnakes created equal? No, maybe not

A recent study found significant variation in eastern diamondback rattlesnake venom linked to geography, highlighting the need for tailored antivenom production. In contrast, coral snakes' venom is uniform across their range.

Laser-induced graphene 'super' for electronics

Researchers at Rice University have developed stacked, three-dimensional supercapacitors using laser-induced graphene, which show excellent energy-storage capacity and power potential. The devices can be scaled up for commercial applications and offer flexibility and scalability benefits.

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.

Sweet potato leaves a good source of vitamins

A study published in HortScience confirms that sweet potato leaves are a good source of vitamins, particularly vitamin B6. The research found that young leaves contained the highest levels of ascorbic acid, while mature leaves provided significant amounts of vitamin B6.

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.

Does screening asymptomatic adults for disease save lives?

Researchers evaluated 39 screening tests for 19 major diseases and found that only a few tests showed a reduction in disease-specific mortality. Screening for asymptomatic adults has been met with controversy, particularly regarding breast cancer and prostate cancer screening. The study suggests that expectations of major benefits from...

Experts explore the medical safety needs of civilian space travel

The article discusses the need for medical care practices in commercial space transportation, highlighting different phases of suborbital and orbital missions. The authors suggest defining Medical Levels of Care to account for various types of flight, including motion sickness, emergency equipment, and spacesuits.

How to predict responses to disease

A new computer model can forecast population-level behavior during disease outbreaks, including panic reactions and misinformation. The model accurately reproduced the population-level behavior that accompanied three disease outbreaks: H1N1 flu and SARS in Hong Kong.

Two satellites measured rainfall in Tropical Depression Mekkhala

The two satellites measured significant rainfall in Tropical Depression Mekkhala, indicating the storm's intensification on January 13. The depression strengthened as it headed towards the Philippines, with maximum sustained winds near 30 knots and a circulation that became slightly better defined.

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.

New species discovered beneath ocean crust

Researchers have discovered new microbes beneath the ocean crust that breathe sulfate, breaking down organic material and producing carbon dioxide. These microbes play a vital role in the global carbon cycle, which is being disrupted by human-made carbon dioxide emissions.

The sound of chirping birds in the control center

Researchers at Bielefeld University have created a system called SoProMon that uses acoustic signals to monitor industrial processes. This approach enables staff to take proactive measures before issues arise, reducing the need for visual monitoring.

Correcting estimates of sea level rise

A Harvard University study reveals that global sea level has accelerated far more than initially thought, with a 30% increase in sea level rise from 1900-1990 compared to previous estimates. The researchers used a new approach to estimate sea level change by accounting for the limitations of existing tide gauge records.

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.

Love, marriage and town-gown relationships

A new study from Ohio State University finds that community members feel most contact with Ohio State students, highlighting the importance of student engagement. The assessment also reveals the impact of distance on town-gown relationships, suggesting that colleges must make a special effort to reach local communities.

New restoration focus for western dry forests

A study suggests that dry forests in the western US are more threatened by insect outbreaks and droughts than wildfires. Historically, these forests had a mix of large and small trees, providing 'bet-hedging' insurance against multiple disturbances.

Sustainability challenged as many renewable resources max out

A study by Michigan State University and international partners reveals that 20 renewable resources, such as corn and soy, have reached peak production rates between 1988 and 2008. The researchers warn that relying on substitution to solve shortages may not be effective when multiple resources are running out.

Atomic placement of elements counts for strong concrete

Researchers Rouzbeh Shahsavari and Saroosh Jalilvand found that atomic-level forces affect the mechanical properties of complex particle-based materials, such as concrete. They suggest new ways to fine-tune chemistry to make concrete less prone to cracking and more suitable for specific applications.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Debunking aging myths in financial decisions

A new study from Columbia Business School found that 'crystallized intelligence,' gained through experience and accumulated knowledge, is more important than 'fluid intelligence' in making sound financial decisions. The research suggests guidelines for policymakers to help older adults with complex financial decisions.

How cells communicate

The study of zebrafish at the European Zebrafish Resource Center has shown that signaling molecules are transmitted in bundles via long filopodia, influencing signaling properties and tissue development. This precise control enables cells to develop their special structure and function.

£15.8 million for long-term projects tackling major scientific challenges

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has funded five high-value research projects worth £15.8M to tackle major scientific challenges in health, energy and agriculture. The projects will focus on producing clean energy, developing new medicines and protecting livestock from disease.

HIV/AIDS patients in Deep South have lower survival rates

Research reveals that HIV/AIDS patients in the southern US have significantly lower survival rates compared to other regions. The study found that 15% of people diagnosed with HIV and 27% of those diagnosed with AIDS died within five years of diagnosis.

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.

Sexual objectification increases women's fear of crime

A study published in Sex Roles found that sexual objectification increases women's fear of face-to-face crime and physical harm. The researchers suggest that challenging social acceptance of sexual objectification can help transform unequal power distributions between men and women, reducing violence against women.

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.

Predicting coral reef futures under climate change

Researchers found that water depth and reef structure can predict coral reef recovery with 98% confidence. The study used nearly 20 years of coral reef data from the Seychelles to identify thresholds for these factors. This prediction can help reef management plan strategies to improve the outlook for reefs.

NIH expands early-stage human testing of infectious disease treatment candidates

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded contracts to three organizations to conduct early-stage human clinical trials for investigational infectious disease treatments. The trials will test the safety of novel drugs against a range of emerging and re-emerging pathogens, including viruses and bacteria.

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.

Abscisic acid treatments can prevent tomato blossom-end rot

Research found that abscisic acid (ABA) treatments can increase calcium concentrations in tomato fruit, reducing the risk of blossom-end rot. ABA applications were effective in early stages of plant development, but additional treatments may be needed for later stages.

Race of the electrons

Scientists have successfully tracked the motion of electrons in metals using laser pulses, achieving attosecond precision. The results demonstrate that electrons travel through metals ballistically, with their arrival times dependent on layer thickness. This breakthrough has significant implications for the miniaturization of electroni...

The anatomy of petal drop in sunflowers

Researchers found that cell division at the abscission zone of short-lived sunflower cultivars occurs earlier than in long-lived varieties, leading to earlier petal drop. The study also showed a correlation between flower color and vase life, with darker cultivars having shorter vase life.

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.