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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 54


Page 54 of 402

A new explanation for the explosive nature of magnetic reconnection

Researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have discovered a new mechanism that speeds up magnetic reconnection, providing new insights into this complex astrophysical process. The model predicts a novel regime in which fast reconnection rates appear independent of system resistivity.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 10, 2015

The gut microbiota can influence the effectiveness of dietary treatments

Researchers found that individuals with better blood sugar control after consuming barley kernel bread had a different balance of gut microbes. The study suggests the importance of individualized dietary guidelines based on gut microbiota. Further studies are planned to confirm the findings and develop combination products with Prevote...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 10, 2015

Geophysics could slow Antarctic ice retreat

A new study suggests that geophysical elements, such as the West Antarctic Ice Sheet's gravitational pull and the mantle's fluid nature, can slow its retreat. This could lead to a less drastic rise in global sea levels than previously predicted.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 10, 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.

Research links tundra fires, thawing permafrost

Wildfires on Arctic tundra can contribute to permafrost thaw, changing ecosystems and affecting downstream waters. Researchers used lidar data to document thawing in the Anaktuvuk River fire's footprint, observing thermokarst and irregular topography.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 10, 2015

Discovery of classic pi formula a 'cunning piece of magic'

Two University of Rochester scientists discovered the 17th century Wallis formula for pi in a quantum mechanics formula for hydrogen atom energy states. The discovery underscores pi's omnipresence in math and science.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Mathematical Physics·DateNov 10, 2015

Sunscreen ingredient may prevent medical implant infections

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that zinc oxide nanopyramids can disrupt the growth of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on medical implants, reducing bacterial load by over 95%. The coating may enable antibiotic treatments to succeed or allow the human immune system to take over.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNanomedicine·DateNov 10, 2015

Dengue: Asymptomatic people transmit the virus to mosquitoes

Scientists found that asymptomatic people can infect mosquitoes with dengue virus, representing three-quarters of all dengue infections. This challenges existing theories and highlights the potential for these individuals to contribute to the spread of the virus.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Coronavirus breakthrough by INRS researchers

Researchers at INRS have discovered a coronavirus protein mutation that slows the spread of the virus in the central nervous system and reduces its neurovirulence. The study sheds light on how persistent coronavirus infections take hold and may help prevent associated neurological diseases.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 10, 2015

Intellectual disabilities share disease mechanisms, study suggests

Researchers found that treatment with Lovastatin can correct high levels of protein production in the brain linked to intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders. The study suggests that different types of intellectual disabilities may share common disease mechanisms, which could benefit from common therapeutic approaches.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateNov 10, 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.

Participatory breeding program assists organic tomato growers

A participatory breeding program assisted organic tomato growers in identifying key plant traits needed for optimal production, with flavor as the top priority. The program also revealed differences in fruit quality characteristics between organic and conventional growers, highlighting the importance of disease resistance and nutrition...

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 10, 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.

The long and short of plasma turbulence

Researchers have used a supercomputer to simulate plasma turbulence, finding that long and short wavelength turbulence coexist and interact strongly, increasing heat losses tenfold above standard models. This discovery may inform fusion reactor design and bring us closer to practical fusion energy.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 10, 2015

Medicines do not seem to degrade faster in space

A study published in The AAPS Journal suggests that medication degradation does not differ significantly between space and Earth. Nine medications were analyzed after being stored for up to 11 months in space, with some remaining viable beyond their expiration dates.

SourceAmerican Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists·JournalThe AAPS Journal·DateNov 10, 2015

Largest ensemble simulation of global weather using real-world data

Researchers at RIKEN Advanced Institute for Computational Science in Japan ran an enormous global weather simulation with 10,240 simulations of a model of the global atmosphere. They found that faraway observations can impact the eventual state of the weather forecast, which could lead to more accurate forecasts.

SourceRIKEN·JournalComputer·DateNov 10, 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.

First, do no harm: Hospital patients given anti-heartburn drugs have higher risk of dying

A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that hospital patients taking acid-reducing drugs have a higher risk of dying from infections such as pneumonia and C. diff. The simulation model used by researchers found that around 90% of hospital inpatients who were first prescribed these drugs had a higher ris...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateNov 10, 2015

Pinpointing poverty with cellphone data

University at Buffalo researchers analyze mobile phone records to drill down to specific communities, providing insights into food, healthcare, education, and other human necessities. The approach aims to improve poverty maps by 14 geographical regions, offering a quick and cost-efficient tool for aid organizations and government agenc...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateNov 10, 2015

Novel double dagger anti-cancer agent

Researchers discover a link between colorectal cancer and melanoma treatment NT157, targeting both tumor cells and microenvironment to suppress cancer growth. The compound's dual mechanism of action shows promise in treating colon cancer with minimal damage to non-cancer cells.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalOncogene·DateNov 10, 2015

Large landowners key to slowing deforestation in Brazil

Research in Mato Grosso reveals nearly two-thirds of remaining forests and carbon reserves are on private properties owned by large landowners. The study suggests continued focus on larger properties is crucial to preserving forest cover.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 10, 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.

The secret to safe DNA repair

Researchers have identified a previously unknown protein that plays a vital role in DNA repair, potentially leading to new biomarkers and treatments for cancer. The discovery could help prevent errors during the repair process, reducing the risk of mutations and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateNov 10, 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.

Study shows why 4-year-olds don't thrive in Head Start classes

A new national study suggests that most Head Start classrooms with mixed ages hinder the academic growth of older children, causing them to fall up to five months behind their peers. The research found that higher concentrations of younger children in the classroom led to lower gains in math and language skills among older children.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 10, 2015

Intensive farming link to bovine TB

Research by the University of Exeter found that intensive farming practices, such as larger herd sizes and maize growth, increase the risk of bovine TB. Farms with herds over 150 cattle are 50% more likely to suffer a TB outbreak.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiological Letters·DateNov 10, 2015

Childhood cancer survivors at heightened risk of several autoimmune diseases

Research reveals childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases, such as diabetes and thyroid disorders. The study found that survivors were up to 60% more likely to develop an autoimmune disorder than those without a history of childhood cancer, with the excess risk persisting for decades.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateNov 10, 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.

Northern lakes act as CO2 chimneys in a warming world

A new study reveals that many lakes worldwide release large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, with northern hemisphere lakes expected to increase emissions due to climate change. The study found that most lake CO2 originates from surrounding land, highlighting the impact of land use changes on greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 10, 2015

Mercury gets a meteoroid shower from Comet Encke

A new study found that Mercury is being pelted by ancient comet dust, impacting its tenuous atmosphere and surface boundary exosphere. The researchers discovered a cometary dust stream from Comet Encke that explains the timing of calcium emission peaks in the planet's exosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 10, 2015

Sea urchin spurs new ideas for lightweight materials

Scientists at University of Copenhagen discover heart urchin shell has a structure that nears theoretical ideal for foam structure strength. The shell's unique porosity and strut arrangement make it up to six times stronger than chalk, despite being lighter.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateNov 10, 2015

Emotionally supportive relationships linked to lower testosterone

A new study by University of Notre Dame anthropologists found that aging U.S. men with emotionally supportive relationships have lower testosterone levels compared to their less supportive counterparts. This connection may help explain the link between social support and improved overall health.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateNov 10, 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.

Microwave field imaging using diamond and vapor cells

Scientists have created two innovative techniques to visualize microwave fields, utilizing spin states induced by microwaves. The first method uses rubidium atoms in a glass cell to image the field in high resolution, while the second method employs individual electrons in diamond to produce nanoscale images.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 10, 2015

Ultra-thin, tunable, broadband microwave absorber may advance radar cloaking

Researchers developed ultra-thin, tunable broadband microwave absorber for ultrahigh-frequency applications. The absorber has a thickness of 7.8 millimeters and can absorb a wide range of frequencies, demonstrating its potential in improving aircraft cloaking, warship stealth, and broadband antenna technology.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateNov 10, 2015

Research links tundra fires, thawing permafrost

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that wildfires on the Arctic tundra can cause significant permafrost thaw, with about a third of the fire's footprint experiencing thawing. This effect is similar to those observed in boreal forests where burns are more common.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 10, 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.

New treatment option may be on the horizon for polymyalgia rheumatica

Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery found that tocilizumab, a drug approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis, is effective in treating polymyalgia rheumatica. The study showed that patients treated with tocilizumab were able to discontinue corticosteroids more quickly and remained in remission over 12 months.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·DateNov 10, 2015

New vaccine could prevent high cholesterol

A new vaccine has shown promise in reducing 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels in mice and macaques, suggesting potential as an alternative to statins. The vaccine targets the PCSK9 protein, which regulates cholesterol levels in the blood, offering a more powerful treatment with fewer side effects.

SourceElsevier·JournalVaccine·DateNov 10, 2015

Obese kids young as age 8 show signs of heart disease

Research found significant heart disease and muscle abnormalities in obese children, with 40% considered high-risk. Obesity linked to thicker heart muscles and impaired pumping ability, potentially leading to complications in adulthood.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 10, 2015

BIDMC researchers describe strategies to decrease immune responses in IBD

Researchers at BIDMC have identified a novel strategy to decrease immune responses in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), by targeting the ecto-enzyme CD39 on Tc1 immune cells and modulating purinergic signaling. This approach shows promise for reducing inflammation and improving symptoms in patients with IBD.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 10, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

UA-led research: Prevention of macular degeneration possible

A University of Arizona-led study found that patients taking levodopa, a treatment for Parkinson's disease, are less likely to develop macular degeneration. The study suggests l-dopa may delay or prevent the disease, potentially leading to new treatments and improved eye health.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateNov 10, 2015

College football linemen face greater risk of heart problems

Researchers found a higher incidence of high blood pressure in college linemen compared to non-linemen, with a relative decrease in subclinical left ventricular function. The study suggests that football players in lineman positions face a greater risk of specific heart problems due to physiologic differences between the group.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 10, 2015

Childhood obesity is linked to poverty and parenting style

New research from Concordia University suggests that both poverty and parenting style are independent predictors of childhood health. For preschool-age children, household income is a key factor in obesity risk, regardless of parenting style.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateNov 10, 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.

New derivation of pi links quantum physics and pure math

Researchers discovered a famous pre-Newtonian formula for pi in calculations of the energy levels of a hydrogen atom, linking pure math to quantum physics. The Wallis formula, published in 1655, was previously unknown to be connected to the hydrogen atom's energy states.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Mathematical Physics·DateNov 10, 2015

Mindfulness meditation trumps placebo in pain reduction

A recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that mindfulness meditation reduced pain intensity by 27% and emotional aspect of pain by 44%, compared to a 11% reduction in sensation of pain and 13% reduction in emotional aspect with placebo cream. Mindfulness meditation also activated brain regions associated with self-...

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateNov 10, 2015

Computer model reveals deadly route of Ebola outbreak

A novel statistical model mapped the spread of the 2014-2015 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, providing the most detailed picture to date. The analysis suggests two critical opportunities to control the epidemic and identifies two critical points where intervention could have been more effective.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInterface·DateNov 10, 2015

Novel stem cell line avoids risk of introducing transplanted tumors

Researchers have created a new 'progenitor cell' capable of unlimited expansion and differentiation into mature kidney cells without the risk of forming tumors. This breakthrough presents several advantages over using undifferentiated human stem cells, including reduced tumor growth potential and easier manipulation for therapeutic use.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateNov 10, 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.

Computer model developed for predicting the dispersion of vog

A computer model developed by University of Hawaii researchers can accurately forecast the movement of vog around the state, posing a serious threat to health and ecosystems. The model uses sulfur dioxide emissions and wind predictions to provide near-real-time forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateNov 9, 2015

Rice U. paper: End 'stem cell tourism'

A new paper by Rice University experts warns that unproven stem cell-based interventions are causing harm to patients and hindering scientific progress. The authors argue that public policy is needed to reduce 'stem cell tourism' and promote responsible research.

SourceRice University·JournalBMC Medical Ethics·DateNov 9, 2015