Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2015 - Page 19


Page 19 of 36

Model offers more ease, precision for managing invasive Asian carp

The FluEgg model examines complex dependencies between flow, temperature, and egg development to predict the likelihood of Asian carp reproduction in the St. Joseph River. The model highlights the importance of a fine balance between egg development and variable flow conditions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateApr 16, 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.

For men, online generosity is a competition

Researchers found that men donate four times more to an attractive female fundraiser in response to another male's contribution, suggesting a subconscious competitive helping behavior. To improve fundraising success, seed campaigns with larger donations early and make fundraisers smile.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 16, 2015

Fish type, body size can help predict nutrient recycling rates

A new study published in PNAS reveals that the type of fish and its body size can predict nutrient recycling rates in ecosystems. The researchers analyzed data from over 900 fish and invertebrates in a diverse marine community, finding that body mass and taxonomic identity are key factors in predicting these rates.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2015

The mechanics of life

A team led by Otger Campàs and Jérome Gros aims to measure the map of forces generated by embryonic cells as they build limbs. They plan to use a new technique to study mechanical forces in living tissues and explore their role in cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateApr 16, 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.

Angiogenesis inhibitors undermined by immune cells, says study

Researchers discovered that myeloid cells switch roles and become anti-therapy agents when angiogenesis inhibitors are used, leading to tumor growth and relapse. Targeting the PI3K signaling pathway may offer a way to prevent this phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 16, 2015

Thumbnail track pad

Researchers at MIT Media Lab create a miniature wireless track pad using capacitive sensing, allowing users to control devices with their thumbs. The technology has potential applications in various scenarios, including cooking, texting, and subtle communication.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 16, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How ancient species survived or died off in their old Kentucky home

Researchers at University of Cincinnati uncover evidence that bison, deer and other present-day species survived Ice Age climate change, while mammoths and mastodons perished. Fossil analysis reveals radical shifts in environmental temperature and vegetation, forcing animals to adapt or die.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalQuaternary Research·DateApr 16, 2015

Michael Douglas Gordon is the 2015 CAN Young Investigator awardee

Dr. Michael Gordon's research focuses on understanding neural circuits that drive taste responses and feeding preferences in fruit flies. His studies have shown that food preference can be viewed as a changing metric based on initial taste, experience, and physiological condition.

SourceCanadian Association for Neuroscience·DateApr 16, 2015

Epilepsy drug may preserve eyesight for people with MS

Researchers found that those taking phenytoin had 30% less damage to the nerve fiber layer and a 34% higher macula volume compared to placebo recipients. Vision recovery was successful, but long-term visual outcomes showed no significant differences between groups.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 16, 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.

New transitional stem cells discovered

Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a new form of human embryonic stem cell that can help advance research on pre-eclampsia and other reproductive problems. These 'BMP-primed' stem cells are more robust and easily manipulated than traditional stem cells, making them ideal for future studies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2015

A scientific look at the art of teacher talk

A new study finds that teachers' conversational art of instruction can measurably influence literacy skills. Measured, positive feedback is shown to improve student performance, while talking around standardized test questions and failing to cultivate class-wide discussions have a negative effect.

SourceBoston College·DateApr 16, 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.

160 people die of rabies every day, says major new study

A global study on canine rabies found that 160 people die daily from the disease, with annual economic losses totaling $8.6 billion. Collaboration between human and animal health sectors is essential to eliminate rabies, with vaccination of dogs being the most cost-effective way to prevent the disease.

SourceGlobal Alliance for Rabies Control·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 16, 2015

Inducing labor at full term not associated with higher C-section rates

A new analysis found no link between induction of labor at full term and rates of C section in uncomplicated pregnancies. Induction was associated with slightly less blood loss and lower risk of meconium staining, but birth weight was lower in induced babies by 136 grams.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 16, 2015

Could maple syrup help cut use of antibiotics?

Researchers found that a concentrated maple syrup extract makes disease-causing bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics, leading to lower antibiotic usage. The extract also reduces biofilm formation of pathogenic bacteria, making it a potentially simple and effective approach for reducing antibiotic resistance.

SourceMcGill University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateApr 16, 2015

The phthalate DEHP undermines female fertility in mice

Research in mice exposes pregnant females to phthalate DEHP, leading to male-to-female sex ratio imbalance and altered pup reproductive outcomes. Adult ovaries are also disrupted, with decreased follicle growth and steroid hormone production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalReproductive Toxicology·DateApr 16, 2015

New approach to muscle regeneration restores function after traumatic injury without need for donor tissue

Researchers have developed a new method for muscle regeneration using autologous minced tissue grafts, which can restore functional muscle at the site of injury. The approach uses a collagen hydrogel-based expansion method and demonstrates similar functional recovery as donor muscle grafts with reduced tissue requirements.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioResearch Open Access·DateApr 16, 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.

Breath taking

Scientists have identified two sensory neuron subtypes controlling different respiratory functions in mice, revealing a complex vagus nerve system that may lead to targeted therapies. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying breathing control and has implications for treating various conditions.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateApr 16, 2015

How do we hear time within sound?

Researchers discover that neurons in auditory cortex encode temporal patterns using excitatory and inhibitory inputs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of state-of-the-art neural prosthetic devices capable of mimicking brain coding patterns.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 16, 2015

Bacterial 'memory' targets invading viruses

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and the Weizmann Institute of Science have discovered a precise mechanism used by bacteria to defend themselves against invading viruses. The CRISPR-Cas system is adaptive, allowing bacteria to 'memorize' viral DNA and launch targeted attacks in future encounters.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature·DateApr 16, 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.

Detector at the South Pole explores the mysterious neutrinos

Researchers at the South Pole have discovered 35 high-energy neutrinos originating from distant regions of space, offering insights into the universe's most abundant particles. The IceCube detector has analyzed 5,200 interactions between atmospheric neutrinos and ice atoms, confirming quantum fluctuations that change neutrino types.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalPhysical Review D·DateApr 16, 2015

Nanotubes with 2 walls have singular qualities

Rice University researchers discovered that double-walled carbon nanotubes can be tuned for specific electronic properties by controlling their configuration and distance between walls. The study found that combining metallic with semiconducting nanotubes could lead to the creation of nanotube transistors.

SourceRice University·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 16, 2015

The Lancet Neurology: Autism Series media alert

Recent breakthroughs in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) research focus on precision medicine approaches, leveraging genetic technologies to identify risk genes and develop personalized therapies. Neuroimaging studies are also helping understand brain structure and function across the lifespan.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 16, 2015
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.

Dr. Donald Coffey honored with 2015 AACR Margaret Foti Award

Dr. Coffey will receive the award for his pioneering work on prostate cancer, nuclear matrix, and mentoring of young researchers. He is also recognized for his outstanding leadership skills and advocacy for sustained funding for cancer research.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 16, 2015

Osteoporosis diagnosis contributes to hearing loss risk

A study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that people with osteoporosis are at a 1.76-fold higher risk of developing sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Researchers analyzed medical records of over 10,600 individuals with osteoporosis and found that they were more likely to be diag...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 16, 2015

Major advance in artificial photosynthesis poses win/win for the environment

Berkeley Lab researchers develop a system that captures carbon dioxide and converts it into biodegradable plastics, pharmaceutical drugs, and liquid fuels using solar energy. The technology mimics natural photosynthesis, offering a win/win situation for the environment by producing chemicals in a renewable way.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 16, 2015

Important study of how climate affects biodiversity

Researchers from Uppsala University analyzed the whole genome of 40 bird species to estimate their abundance at various points in time. The study found that many species exhibit cyclical swings in numbers, often coinciding with ice ages, but human influence may push declines beyond a tipping point to extinction.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 16, 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.

An electronic micropump to deliver treatments deep within the brain

A team of researchers has created an organic electronic micropump that enables localised inhibition of epileptic seizure in brain tissue in vitro. The device attracts small positively charged molecules, projecting them toward the target area using electrical current.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 16, 2015

UCI MIND redesignated as Alzheimer's Disease Research Center

UCI MIND has been redesignated as an Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, allowing it to continue its impactful clinical and basic research programs. The center involves over 100 investigators studying the cellular, molecular, and clinical risk factors of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateApr 16, 2015

A novel mechanism involved in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Researchers at Neuromed Institute discovered a molecular mechanism causing ADHD symptoms, linked to PI3K gamma enzyme dysregulation and hyperactivation of Locus Ceruleus brain area. This finding offers a new understanding of the disease, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 16, 2015

Study: Breastfeeding may prevent postpartum smoking relapse

A new study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research found that breastfeeding for at least 90 days can significantly reduce smoking in the months following childbirth. The study, which followed 168 pregnant smokers, discovered that breastfeeding was the only significant predictor of change in smoking behaviors among these women.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateApr 16, 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.

More individuals discussing end-of-life wishes with loved ones

New research from the University of Missouri shows a significant increase in end-of-life discussions among individuals. The study found that advance care planning is not strongly linked to socioeconomic status or education level, but rather household income plays a role in designating a healthcare proxy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine®·DateApr 16, 2015

Subsidies key in improving sanitation, new study finds

A new study released in Science found that subsidies are essential for increasing the use of hygienic latrines in developing countries. The community-motivation model alone was ineffective, but combining it with subsidies expanded latrine coverage substantially, particularly among poor households.

SourceInnovations for Poverty Action·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 2015
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.

Zinc deficiency linked to activation of Hedgehog signaling pathway

Research at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute suggests a link between zinc deficiency and activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway in many diseases. Zinc inhibits the autoprocessing reaction, leading to enhanced production of the Hedgehog ligand and uncontrolled cell growth.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 16, 2015

Research finds no correlation between regulatory T cells and survival in glioblastoma

A study by Dartmouth-Hitchcock's Camilo Fadul and colleagues found no correlation between regulatory T cells (Tregs) and patient survival in glioblastoma. The researchers used a novel epigenetic quantitative analysis methodology to quantify lymphocyte populations, including Tregs, in tumor tissue and peripheral blood.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateApr 16, 2015
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.

New method helps establish South-Asian perceptions of dementia

A new tool has been developed to improve dementia care for south Asian people, addressing cultural barriers to diagnosis. The adapted BEMI-C tool takes into account sensitivities that can act as barriers to effective diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalAging & Mental Health·DateApr 16, 2015

Mapping language in the brain

Researchers created a detailed brain map of language impairments in aphasia following stroke, identifying four dimensions or factors: semantic recognition, speech recognition, speech production, and semantic errors. The study found that specific brain areas, such as the left Sylvian fissure and white matter bottleneck, are associated w...

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2015

Sugar-sweetened beverages suppress the body's stress response

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that consuming sugar-sweetened beverages can suppress cortisol and stress responses in the brain. This may contribute to habit-forming sugar overconsumption during times of psychological or emotional stress.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 16, 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.

Giant galaxies die from the inside out

Astronomers observed 22 massive elliptical galaxies using the VLT and Hubble Space Telescope, revealing that star formation in their centers stopped around three billion years ago. The newly discovered inside-out nature of this shutdown may be due to a galaxy's central supermassive black hole or lack of fresh gas.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 2015

Patient's own fat cells transplanted to treat osteoarthritis may be effective

Researchers have successfully used autologous fat cell transplants to improve symptoms of osteoarthritis in patients. The treatment showed significant improvements in pain management and joint mobility, with most patients experiencing a minimum of 50% score improvement after 12 months.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 16, 2015