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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 74


Page 74 of 402

Standard phenotypes will aid in genetic research on neuropathic pain

A consensus approach to assessing neuropathic pain phenotypes has been developed by an international panel of experts, aiming to improve consistency and transparency in studies. The new criteria identify possible cases of neuropathic pain, emphasizing the need for additional assessments to confirm diagnosis.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPain·DateOct 26, 2015

How clean is the International Space Station?

A study published in Microbiome found that Actinobacteria, a type of bacteria associated with human skin, made up a larger proportion of the microbial community in the ISS than in Earth cleanrooms. Opportunistic pathogens were also present in the ISS dust samples, but the risk of infection to astronauts remains unknown.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMicrobiome·DateOct 26, 2015

Caltech physicists uncover novel phase of matter

Researchers found a new type of multipolar order in strontium-iridium oxide, which could lead to breakthroughs in electronic device functionalities and high-temperature superconductivity. The discovery was made using an optical harmonic generation technique that exploits changes in crystal symmetry.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 26, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rewilding the future

A new study synthesizes research on trophic rewilding, outlining key priorities for rewilding science. The study concludes that species reintroductions and ecological replacements can restore lost food-web cascades with strong ecological effects.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2015

Simpler method for measuring viral infections in bees

Researchers at Aarhus University have created a model that groups the incidence of viral infections into four categories, allowing beekeepers to easily assess the severity of infections. This simplified system benefits both scientists and beekeepers, enabling them to make informed decisions about disease prevention and breeding.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 26, 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.

Renewed hope for the brain-injured

Scientists at SDSU's CSNE are working on a brain chip that reroutes neural signals around injured nerves, allowing for the restoration of motor function. The center has received renewed funding from the National Science Foundation to further develop this technology.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateOct 26, 2015

Declines in whales, fish, seabirds and large animals disrupt Earth's nutrient cycle

A new study reveals that the loss of large land animals, whales, and seabirds has disrupted the global nutrient cycle, with a significant reduction in phosphorus transport. The researchers calculate that the ability of these animals to transport nutrients around the globe has been reduced to just 6% of its former capacity.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2015

Lost giant poop disrupts whole planet

A new study reveals massive declines and extinctions of whales, fish, seabirds have damaged the planet's nutrient recycling system. This has weakened ecosystem health, fisheries, and agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2015

Study finds how Alzheimer's-associated protein tangles spread through the brain

A study published in Nature Communications reveals a mechanism by which the pathologic version of tau protein spreads from neuron to neuron in the brain, contributing to Alzheimer's disease progression. This process involves the release and uptake of high-molecular-weight, soluble tau proteins that are studded with phosphate molecules.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 26, 2015

Only 4 percent of the ocean is protected: UBC research

A University of British Columbia study found that major swaths of the ocean must be protected to reach global biodiversity targets. Currently, only 16% of protected areas are designated as 'no-take' zones, which are crucial for conserving marine life.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalOryx·DateOct 26, 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.

Research backs human role in extinction of mammoths, other mammals

New research supports the idea that human hunting contributed to the decline and extinction of large mammals in the Americas. The study found that the animals' demise began between 13,300-15,000 years ago in Alaska and spread southward across North America and into South America.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2015

Reduction in Amazon deforestation avoids 1,700 deaths per year

A study found that reducing Amazon deforestation leads to improved air quality and a decrease in premature deaths from exposure to particulate matter. The research estimated that the 40% reduction in Brazilian deforestation between 2001-12 prevented approximately 1,700 adult deaths annually in South America.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 26, 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.

Wood instead of petroleum: Producing chemical substances solely from renewable resources

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and the University of Alabama have successfully synthesized two complex chemical substances from wood-based starting materials. The new xylochemical synthesis demonstrates a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to manufacturing everyday products.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 26, 2015

HIV care could save lives and billions of dollars, computer model predicts

A computer model developed by Johns Hopkins predicts that strengthening HIV care, including retention in care and increased testing, can avert 752,000 new infections and 276,000 AIDS deaths over 20 years. Enhanced interventions could reduce incidence by 54% and mortality by 64% at a cost-effectiveness ratio of $45,300 per QALY.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateOct 26, 2015

Study: Low-weight, high-repetition exercise increases bone density up to 8 percent in adults

A new study finds that low-weight, high-repetition resistance training increases bone mineral density in adults, with significant gains observed in osteopenic and postmenopausal individuals. The exercise regimen is a feasible option for older and inactive adults, and may help prevent hip fractures.

SourcePortavoce Public Relations·JournalThe Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness·DateOct 26, 2015
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.

Ants: Both solid-like and liquid-like

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that ants can flow like liquids when subjected to high pressure, but also exhibit springy behavior when probed at short times. This unique combination of properties allows ants to build bridges, span gaps, and even self-assemble into rafts to survive floodwaters.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 26, 2015

Twenty-three researchers recognized as EMBO Young Investigators

EMBO has selected 23 young researchers as its latest cohort of Young Investigators, representing ten countries and covering various fields of research. The programme offers benefits such as funding, access to core facilities, and professional development opportunities to support their careers.

SourceEMBO·DateOct 26, 2015

Nanoquakes probe new 2-dimensional material

A team of researchers from UC Riverside and the University of Augsburg developed a technique to analyze novel two-dimensional semiconductors by creating high-frequency sound waves on lithium niobate substrates. This allows for the detection of changes in electric properties of the material when illuminated with laser light.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 26, 2015

Stopping tuberculosis requires new strategy

TB researchers propose a biosocial approach combining biomedical interventions with social actions to address root causes of the disease, which include poverty, malnutrition, and overcrowding. The strategy aims to reduce morbidity and mortality while alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 26, 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.

Extinction of Pleistocene herbivores induced major vegetation and landscape changes

The extinction of large herbivores during the Late Pleistocene led to significant changes in vegetation composition and landscape openness. This study reveals that large herbivores play a crucial role in shaping their environments, which has major consequences for other species and ecosystem processes.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2015

'Hypercarnivores' kept massive ancient herbivores in check

A team of evolutionary biologists used mathematical models to determine that ancient carnivores could bring down massive herbivores like mastodons and giant ground sloths. The largest cave hyena might have been able to take down a 5-year-old juvenile mastodon weighing over a ton.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 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.

Many young heart attack patients, especially women, unaware of risk

A new study found that only half of younger heart attack patients believed they were at risk before the attack, with women being less likely to be informed by their doctors. The study highlights a need for better education and counseling on heart disease prevention among young individuals, particularly women.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 26, 2015

An innovative response to the challenge of storing renewable energy

The new system, developed by EPFL's Distributed Electrical Systems Laboratory, is based on high-performance lithium-ion titanate cells and can store up to 500 kWh of energy. Researchers will use it to study and optimize the functioning of renewable energy systems and feed them into the power distribution grid.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateOct 26, 2015

Better business is linked up

A recent study examines the use of LinkedIn for professional development, finding adults are receptive to sharing knowledge and meeting professionals. However, negative experiences such as unwanted advertisements and unsolicited invitations were also reported.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Social Media and Interactive Learning Environments·DateOct 26, 2015

Eating more fruits, veggies in youth linked to healthy heart decades later

Researchers found that eating more fruits and vegetables as young adults was associated with less calcified coronary artery plaque 20 years later. People who ate the most fruit and vegetable at the start had a 26% lower risk of developing calcified plaque compared to those who ate the least.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateOct 26, 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.

WSU researchers develop natural protein cage for improved cancer drug delivery

Washington State University researchers have developed a unique protein cage to deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, showing promising results in killing over 70% of lung cancer cells. The system selectively targets cancer cells without attacking healthy cells, potentially reducing side effects.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateOct 26, 2015

Wanted: Fair players and a climate leader

An international team proposes a method for countries to choose their own 'fair' emissions cuts, paving the way for a global consensus. The approach requires one major power to set an ambitious target, with others following suit and choosing their own justice model.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 26, 2015
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.

IEEE Communications Society Honors founder of NYU Wireless for seminal work

Theodore S. Rappaport, founder of NYU Wireless, received the Edwin Howard Armstrong Achievement Award for his pioneering work on millimeter-wave spectrum research and radio channel modeling. This award recognizes Rappaport's foundational contributions to 5G technology, which is projected to be 1,000 times faster than 4G.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateOct 26, 2015

A 'profound' success in treating children and young adults with rare blood disorders

A multicenter clinical trial led by CHOP researcher David T. Teachey found that sirolimus, an immunosuppressant drug, is effective in treating autoimmune blood disorders such as ALPS with complete responses and rapid improvements. The treatment has minimal side effects, with most patients able to discontinue steroids within months.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalBlood·DateOct 26, 2015

Green office environments linked with higher cognitive function scores

A study found that workers in well-ventilated offices with low indoor pollutants and CO2 have significantly higher cognitive functioning scores than those in typical offices. The researchers identified green building design attributes that influence cognitive function, suggesting improved air quality could greatly increase productivity.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 26, 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.

Study seeks cause of fatal bereavement

A new study aims to determine the mechanisms that cause some grieving survivors to suffer unanticipated and potentially fatal heart attacks. The researcher hopes to understand how stress, depression, and anxiety contribute to inflammation, a driver of cardiovascular disease.

SourceRice University·DateOct 26, 2015

Male mosquitoes lured to traps by sounds of female wing-beats

Researchers found that male mosquitoes are lured to traps emitting sounds similar to female wing-beats. The frequency used was around 484 Hz, capturing over 95% of males exposed to it. This method could enhance studies and mosquito control in developing countries.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateOct 26, 2015

New ASN-GWU report examines key challenges for kidney health workforce

The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has released a report outlining current and future challenges to the specialty of nephrology. Key findings include the increasing fragmentation of kidney care, uneven distribution of nephrologists across the US, and declining interest among residents choosing nephrology fellowships.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateOct 26, 2015

Pregnant women in Brooklyn have highest levels of certain preservatives used in cosmetics

A recent study found that pregnant women in Brooklyn have the highest levels of methyl paraben and propyl parben, preservatives commonly used in cosmetics. The researchers detected these substances in human cord blood samples and raised concerns about potential health effects on fetal development and child health.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·JournalEnvironment International·DateOct 26, 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.

Unraveling the complex, intertwined electron phases in a superconductor

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory and Cornell University have characterized a key arrangement of electrons in a high-temperature superconductor. The study identifies the atomic-scale origins and influences that produce the density wave in cuprates, revealing a link between the electron density wave and pseudogap phase.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 26, 2015

CRISPR brings precise control to gene expression

Researchers have developed a CRISPR system that can precisely turn on and off specific genomic regions, potentially revolutionizing the study of human diseases. This technique has shown exceptional specificity, enabling precise control over gene expression.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 26, 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.

Task Force says screen all overweight or obese adults for abnormal blood sugar

The USPSTF recommends screening overweight and obese adults between 40-70 for abnormal blood sugar, referring those with high blood sugar to intensive behavioral counseling. Abnormal blood sugar levels increase risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which has risen in prevalence over the past 15 years.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 26, 2015

Study: Alaskan soil thaw sends carbon directly back into atmosphere

A new study finds that Alaskan permafrost soil is biodegradable, releasing its stored carbon directly back into the atmosphere as CO2. The process occurs rapidly, with almost half of the carbon being consumed by microbes within 200 hours.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2015

High post-pregnancy BMI raises pelvic organ prolapse risk

A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that high post-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) is a significant risk factor for pelvic organ prolapse. Maintaining a healthy weight after delivery may play an important role in preventing early stages of prolapse, according to the research.

SourceYale University·JournalReproductive Sciences·DateOct 26, 2015

Researchers solve longtime puzzle about how we learn

A Johns Hopkins University research team has validated a theory on the brain's mechanism of learning, finding that 'eligibility traces' effectively tag neural synapses activated by stimuli, linking actions with rewards. This discovery could enhance teaching methods and lead to treatments for cognitive problems.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNeuron·DateOct 26, 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.

Suzaku finds common chemical makeup at largest cosmic scales

A new survey using Japan's Suzaku X-ray satellite reveals that the elements necessary for stars, planets, and people were evenly distributed across the Virgo galaxy cluster at a scale of millions of light-years. This discovery suggests that the chemical makeup of the universe is well mixed, with little variation on the largest scales.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 26, 2015

Insulin cells determine weight-loss surgery success rate

A recent study found that patients with better insulin-producing cells before weight loss surgery are more likely to eliminate diabetes. The research suggests that measuring insulin cells' performance can help doctors predict which patients will benefit from the procedure, emphasizing the importance of early procedures.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateOct 26, 2015