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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 394


Page 394 of 402

Men want commitment when women are scarce

A study among the Makushi people in Guyana reveals that men are more likely to pursue long-term relationships when women are in short supply. The researchers found that when women are abundant, men tend to seek multiple short-term partners, but when they are scarce, men value and attempt to maintain a single partner.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 13, 2015

Crops can do their own weed control

Weed control in conventional farming methods has a negative impact on the environment. Research from the University of Copenhagen reveals that crops like corn, grains, and beans can suppress weed growth when sown in tighter grid patterns. This results in up to 72% reduction in weed biomass and a 45% increase in grain yields.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalWeed Research·DateJan 13, 2015

Study: Eat school lunch after recess

A Brigham Young University study found that switching recess before lunch increases fruit and vegetable consumption in children by 54%. This simple, no-cost trick has the potential to improve long-term health effects and make school meal programs more successful.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJan 13, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dinosaurs wiped out rapidly in Europe 66 million years ago

A new study reveals that dinosaurs remained diverse in European ecosystems until the end of the Cretaceous period. Fossils from Spain, France, and other countries show that meat-eating and plant-eating species were present and thriving during the final few hundred thousand years before the asteroid impact.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJan 13, 2015

Use of surgical procedure to facilitate child birth declines

A study published in JAMA found that US episiotomy rates decreased significantly between 2006 and 2012, from 17.3% to 11.6%, with notable variations based on insurance coverage and hospital characteristics. The decline was attributed to the restrictive use of episiotomy due to its risks and unclear benefits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 13, 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.

Estimated social cost of climate change not accurate, Stanford scientists say

A new study suggests that the social cost of carbon is not $37 per ton as previously estimated, but $220 per ton. This higher estimate justifies rapid and early mitigation efforts to limit global temperature rise to 2 degrees Celsius. The research also explores the impact on developing countries, suggesting that delaying emissions redu...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 13, 2015

Autonomous tots have higher cognitive skills

A study by researchers at the University of Montreal found that children whose mothers consistently supported their autonomy had higher executive functioning skills. The mother's ability to teach problem-solving skills and take her child's perspective was crucial in shaping the child's cognitive abilities.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Child and Family Studies·DateJan 13, 2015

Cold plasma treatment cuts norovirus germs

A new study shows that cold atmospheric pressure plasma significantly reduced the number of virus particles in norovirus samples, making it a promising method for continuous disinfection of contaminated surfaces. The technology is environmentally friendly and effective against viruses with high tenacity, like noroviruses.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateJan 13, 2015

Major grant will help diabetics

A new research project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation will investigate why some diabetes patients develop painful neuritis, while others do not. The study aims to identify key factors and potentially develop preventive or inhibiting medicine.

SourceAarhus University·DateJan 13, 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.

New device allows for manipulation of differentiating stem cells

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel microfluidic device that allows for electroporation of adherent stem cells during differentiation, enabling the delivery of molecules in a non-destructive manner. This breakthrough has the potential to advance fundamental knowledge and state-of-the-art in stem cell research.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJan 13, 2015

New target identified for potential brain cancer therapies

Scientists have discovered a novel interaction between AEG-1 and Akt2 proteins that regulates malignant characteristics of GBM, offering new therapeutic potential. Disrupting this interaction in preclinical experiments showed reduced GBM cell survival and invasion.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 13, 2015

Crush those clinkers while they're hot

Researchers at Rice University found that optimizing the process of turning clinkers into cement can save a significant amount of energy and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. By analyzing the crystal and atomic structures of clinkers, they identified areas where defects and internal stresses affect the grinding process.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 13, 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.

Glass for battery electrodes

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a new glass material that can store more energy than traditional lithium-ion batteries. The vanadate-borate glass exhibits improved charging capacity and stability, paving the way for more efficient electric vehicles and longer-lasting portable electronics.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 13, 2015

WCS radio collars iconic South American mammal

A WCS study tracked guanacos in Karukinka Natural Park, Chile, revealing their seasonal movements and conflicts with livestock. The research suggests a limited science-based harvest may help conserve this species.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalOryx·DateJan 13, 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.

New model predicts Ebola epidemic in Liberia could be ended by June

A new model developed by ecologists at the University of Georgia and Pennsylvania State University projects that the Ebola epidemic in Liberia can be largely contained by June if an 85% hospitalization rate is achieved. The model takes into account various factors such as infection location, treatment, hospital capacity, and safe buria...

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 13, 2015

Not always cool to stay cool in negotiations, study finds

A recent study found that trying to suppress anger about crucial negotiation topics can lead negotiators to lose focus. In contrast, bottling up emotions related to incidental matters does not negatively impact performance.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateJan 13, 2015

Can inhaled oxygen cause cancer?

A new study published in PeerJ found an inverse relationship between oxygen concentration and lung cancer incidence, with counties at higher elevations experiencing lower rates. The association was consistent across population subgroups and demographic variables, suggesting that inhaled oxygen may be a human carcinogen.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateJan 13, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Brazilian scarab beetles found to be termitophiles

Researchers have documented Brazilian scarab beetles living in termite nests for the first time. The beetles' larvae likely feed on the nest structure rather than roots, allowing them to survive undetected.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·DateJan 13, 2015

Bilingualism changes children's beliefs

A Concordia University study found that bilingual children are more likely to believe that traits arise from experience, while monolinguals tend to think they're innate. This discovery has important social implications, as it suggests early second language education could promote acceptance of human diversity.

SourceConcordia University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateJan 13, 2015

Breast cancer diagnoses, survival varies by race, ethnicity

A study of nearly 375,000 US women with invasive breast cancer found that racial and ethnic groups had different rates of early-stage diagnosis and survival. Biological factors, such as tumor aggressiveness and metastatic potential, played a significant role in determining stage at diagnosis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 13, 2015

GMOs with health benefits have a large market potential

Research from Ghent University demonstrates a high willingness of consumers to pay premiums for GMOs with health benefits, ranging from 20% to 70%. The study highlights the potential market share of these nutritionally improved crops in regions such as China and Brazil, where nutrient deficiencies are prevalent.

SourceGhent University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 13, 2015

New model predicts Ebola epidemic in Liberia could be ended by June 2015

A new model developed by ecologists at the University of Georgia and Pennsylvania State University predicts that the Ebola epidemic in Liberia can be largely contained by June 2015 if hospitalization rates and safe burial practices are maintained. The model, which includes factors such as location of infection and treatment, hospital c...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 13, 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.

Cardiac specialists recommend donor heart allocation changes

Leading cardiac specialists have proposed new guidelines for donor heart allocation to increase patient survival rates. The revised system considers factors such as illness severity, waiting list mortality, and geographic variations in allocations.

SourceScripps Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJan 13, 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.

WSU scientists find brain protein aids influenza recovery

Researchers at Washington State University have found a brain protein called AcPb that helps regulate sleep and speeds up animal recovery from influenza. The study reveals that without this protein, animals develop more severe symptoms of infection and die at higher rates.

SourceWashington State University·DateJan 12, 2015

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Jan. 13, 2015

A recent NIH report warns of dose-dependent risks of long-term opioid therapy, while an ACP policy paper tackles clinical documentation in electronic health records. These guidelines aim to improve care and documentation practices among healthcare professionals.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 12, 2015

They see flow signals: Researchers identify nature of fish's 'sixth sense'

A team of scientists has identified the nature of fish's 'sixth sense', which allows them to detect flows of water. The research found that a unique layout of flow sensors on the surface of fish is nearly universal across species, enabling them to retrieve signals about water flow and use this information in different behaviors.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 12, 2015
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.

Slick and slender snake beats short and stubby lizard in sand swimming

Researchers studied snake and lizard movement through sand, finding the snake's elongated shape and slippery skin reduce friction and increase energy efficiency. The study provides insights into evolutionary pressures on body shape among sand-dwelling animals.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 12, 2015

One pipeline that combines many gene-finding tools

A new pipeline combines multiple gene-finding tools to identify genetic markers for phylogenetic study from limited genomic data. The approach, MAKER2, was used to develop loci useful for phylogenetic study in the flowering plant genus Penstemon.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 12, 2015

Hybrid 'super mosquito' resistant to insecticide-treated bed nets

A hybrid of two malaria mosquito species has been found to be highly resistant to insecticide-treated bed nets, threatening efforts to control malaria in Africa. The discovery highlights the urgent need for new and effective vector control strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 12, 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.

'Survival' protein a target in drug-resistant non-Hodgkin lymphomas

Researchers have discovered that targeting a cell 'survival' protein could help treat some lymphomas, including those cancers with genetic defects that make them resistant to many existing therapies. Removing MCL-1 causes the death and elimination of lymphoma cells that had become resistant to conventional cancer treatments.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalBlood·DateJan 12, 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.

Fish peptide could help in battle against cardiovascular disease

A review on Urotensin II has shown its ability to modulate biologic activities in the cardiovascular system, kidneys, and central nervous system. The peptide can constrict and dilate blood vessels, making it a promising candidate for treating various cardiovascular diseases.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPharmacological Reviews·DateJan 12, 2015

From the bottom up: Manipulating nanoribbons at the molecular level

Scientists at Berkeley Lab and UC Berkeley have developed a new method to synthesize graphene nanoribbons from pre-designed molecular building blocks, enabling the creation of width-varying nanoribbons with enhanced properties. This breakthrough represents progress towards controllably assembling molecules into desired shapes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 12, 2015

New strains of parasites identified

A recent study by Ria Ghai has identified three genetically distinct groups of whipworms, with only one being transmissible between humans and non-human primates. This discovery has significant public health implications and highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect endangered species.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 12, 2015

Up in smoke or bottoms up: How policy could affect substance abuse

A study of 7,191 fatal accidents involving young drivers in the US found that half were under the influence of alcohol or marijuana. The researchers found no significant substitution effect between alcohol and marijuana use, suggesting increased availability may lead to concurrent use.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalInjury Epidemiology·DateJan 12, 2015

January/February 2015 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Only 2.2% of American physicians have DEA waivers for prescribing buprenorphine-naloxone, a treatment for opioid use disorder, with most practicing in urban counties. This scarcity limits treatment options in rural areas, leaving over 30 million persons without access to this life-saving medication.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 12, 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.

Sex and the single evening primrose

Researchers found that sexually reproducing species are healthier and less likely to accumulate deleterious mutations over time. The study used the evening primrose plant as a model, comparing 30 pairs of species with different reproductive methods, revealing strong support for the theory that sex is beneficial for health in plants.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 12, 2015

Sound mind, strong heart: Same protein sustains both

A Johns Hopkins study finds that protein BDNF maintains heart muscle vitality and may link depression to heart disease. The research suggests a possible biochemical explanation for the relationship between mental and physical well-being.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 12, 2015

Researchers identify key substance that protects against pre-term birth

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation identified hyaluronon as a critical substance made by the body that protects against premature births from infection. The findings suggest that HA plays a crucial role in epithelial barrier function and offers cervical protection against bacterial infections.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 12, 2015

Revealing the inner workings of a molecular motor

Researchers from RIKEN Brain Science Institute have made significant strides in understanding the mechanism of dynein's movement along microtubules. The study found that specific amino acid residues on the microtubule structure play a crucial role in activating the dynein motor, enabling directional movement and cargo transport.

SourceRIKEN·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 12, 2015

Beyond prevention: Sulforaphane may find possible use for cancer therapy

Researchers at Oregon State University have identified sulforaphane's ability to selectively kill cancer cells and alter gene expression in metasticized prostate cancer. The compound may work alongside existing approaches to treat advanced prostate cancer, with potential for therapeutic value.

SourceOregon State University·JournalOncogenesis·DateJan 12, 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.

Greenland meltwater contributes to rising sea levels

A new study reveals a vast network of little-understood rivers and streams on Greenland's ice sheet, which could contribute significantly to sea-level rise. The researchers found that the Isortoq River's discharge was 25% less than predicted by climate models.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 12, 2015