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Science News Archive April 2015 - Page 2


Page 2 of 36

Higher levels of inattention at age 7 linked with lower GCSE grades

Research suggests that children displaying increasing levels of inattention at age 7 are at risk of worse academic outcomes in their GCSE examinations. The study found a linear relationship between inattention symptoms and reduced GCSE scores, with every one-point increase in symptoms leading to a two-to-three point decrease in scores.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateApr 30, 2015

Holy agility! Keen sense of touch guides nimble bat flight

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and Columbia University discovered that bat wings have highly sensitive touch sensors that respond to airflow changes, allowing for precise flight control. This finding can inform the development of more agile air vehicles.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 30, 2015

Big Data reveals classical music creation secrets

A study analyzing classical music networks reveals the evolution of cultural styles and predictions for the recording market. The research, published in EPJ Data Science, uses modern data techniques to understand how composers collaborate and influence each other.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateApr 30, 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.

A new cellular response to radiation exposure: Must we reconsider the risks of low doses?

Scientists at Helmholtz Munich discovered a novel lncRNA called PARTICLE that regulates cells' response to ionizing radiation by limiting DNA methylation. This finding contradicts the established LNT model and raises questions about the risk of low-dose radiation exposure.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 30, 2015

Short-term debt and depressive symptoms may go hand-in-hand

Research suggests a strong association between short-term household debt and depressive symptoms, particularly among unmarried individuals, those nearing retirement age, and those with lower education levels. The study highlights the potential impact of debt on mental health and informs lending practices.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateApr 30, 2015

ACP releases advice for the proper time, test, and interval for cervical cancer screening

The American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends starting cervical cancer screening at age 21 every three years with cytology tests, and using a combination of cytology and HPV testing every five years for women aged 30 and older. ACP advises stopping screening for women over 65 with negative test results within the past 10 years.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 30, 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.

Boosting the body's natural ability to fight urinary tract infections

Researchers have discovered an experimental drug that stabilizes the immune defense protein HIF-1alpha, increasing its levels in human bladder cells and mice. This leads to improved resistance against major UTI pathogen E. coli, highlighting a new approach to combating antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 30, 2015

New origin theory for cells that gave rise to vertebrates

Researchers found neural crest cells and early pluripotent cells share similar genetic expression patterns, suggesting a subset of blastula cells may have retained activity for pluripotency. This discovery could be useful in regenerative medicine and understanding human diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2015

Racial disparities seen in initial access to blood flow for hemodialysis

A study found that Black and Hispanic patients start hemodialysis with an arteriovenous fistula less frequently than White patients, despite having fewer comorbidities. The authors suggest that these disparities may be due to the time it takes for AVFs to mature, which could lead to faster progression of chronic kidney disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 29, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An apple a day brings more apples your way

Researchers found that shoppers who ate an apple sample bought 28% more fruits and vegetables than those who didn't. The study suggests that small healthy snacks can prime shoppers to make healthier food choices.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateApr 29, 2015

Young adults born preterm may live with lungs of elderly, study finds

Adult survivors of preterm births may have lung capacity resembling that of the healthy elderly or casual smokers by their early 20s. Premature infants are at increased risk for contracting bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a chronic respiratory condition mainly affecting infants born less than 28 weeks of age.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateApr 29, 2015

Lack of oxygen in the groundwater

A new study by Jena University researchers finds that airport de-icing chemicals can decrease oxygen content in soils and groundwater, leading to dramatic pollution and ecosystem damage. The team suggests using natural self-cleaning capacities of the soil, controlling oxygen levels, or alternative substances for pollutant degradation.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateApr 29, 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.

UTHealth researchers use 'knockout humans' to connect genes to disease risk

UTHealth researchers have sequenced exomes of 8,554 individuals to identify naturally occurring mutations that inactivate certain genes. The study found eight new relationships between genes and diseases, including a link between TXNDC5 and Type 1 Diabetes progression.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 29, 2015

The trillion-frame-per-second camera

Scientists have developed a new high-speed camera, STAMP, that can record events at over 1-trillion-frames-per-second, capturing complex physical and biological processes. The camera operates by splitting a single light pulse into multiple colors, allowing for the creation of moving pictures of ultrafast phenomena.

SourceOptica·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 29, 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.

Epilepsy alters organization of brain networks and functional efficiency

A study published in Brain Connectivity reveals that epilepsy disrupts the organization of brain networks and functional efficiency. The researchers found distinct patterns of reorganizational changes in the brains of individuals with epilepsy, including increased or decreased functional connections between brain networks.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateApr 29, 2015

Geological foundations for smart cities: Comparing early Rome and Naples

Rome was a 'smart city' due to its minimal alteration of natural features and resource management. In contrast, Naples faced more geological hazards and limited resources, constraining its growth. Over time, both cities became unstable due to rapid urban expansion and increased natural disasters

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateApr 29, 2015

Closing the case on an ancient archeological mystery

Climate change led to the collapse of an ancient civilization on the Tibetan Plateau, researchers found. The shift from millet to wheat and barley agriculture was crucial for survival in the region's high altitudes.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 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.

Breast cancer in young women -- unique goals for treatment and research

Breast cancer in young women is characterized by more aggressive disease and increased risk of treatment-related toxicities. Research priorities focus on risk factors, fertility, pregnancy, quality of life, and metastases to improve patient outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology·DateApr 29, 2015

Multifractals suggest the existence of an unknown physical mechanism on the sun

Scientists at the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Poland used multifractal analysis to study sunspots and found asymmetrical patterns that may indicate an unknown physical process. The researchers believe these findings could provide new insights into solar activity and potentially discard current trends.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review E·DateApr 29, 2015

Can China sustain annual pollution reductions?

Despite plateauing emissions, China still faces energy challenges to sustain control over its carbon footprint. The country's transition towards renewable energy and service-oriented economy are key factors in achieving emission-cutting goals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateApr 29, 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.

Transforming all donated blood into a universal type

Researchers successfully boost enzyme activity by 170-fold, rendering antigen-neutral and compatible with all patients regardless of blood type. This breakthrough advances blood transfusions and potentially organ and tissue transplants from mismatched donors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 29, 2015

Three secrets to healthier eating

A new Cornell study reveals that most healthy eaters make nutritious choices due to visible and easy access, enticing displays, and normalization of healthy options. The CAN approach offers practical strategies for schools, restaurants, and individuals to promote healthier eating behaviors.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateApr 29, 2015

Investment fears: How does the need for closure increase risk?

A new study found that individuals with a high need for closure tend to freeze their investment decisions despite new market information, increasing the risk of their portfolios. Clear guidance can help mitigate this behavior.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateApr 29, 2015

Erosion, landslides and monsoon across the Himalayas

Scientists found that sediment size in Himalayan river is larger during summer monsoon, revealing relationship between landslides and erosion. The study suggests that coarse material may be lost en route to the ocean, raising questions about sediment origins.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 29, 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.

Gene therapy clips out heart failure causing gene mutations

Researchers at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have developed a gene therapy approach that targets and corrects genetic mutations linked to heart failure. The treatment uses molecular scissors to cut out diseased genes and replace them with normal ones, restoring healthy cardiac cell function.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2015

Calling 911 in rural areas leads to faster heart attack care

Research finds patients who arrived by ambulance took an average of 26 minutes compared to 38 minutes for those driving themselves. Paramedics can activate care more quickly than patients seeking care on their own, highlighting the importance of trusting EMS providers.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 29, 2015

Study advances new tool in the fight against invasive species

Scientists have devised a new method to investigate factors contributing to biological invasions of non-native species. The study successfully distinguished between two-wave and single-wave invasions using genetic data, allowing for better ecological understanding and management strategies.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalHeredity·DateApr 29, 2015

Consumption rises with automated bill payment

A study by Duke University found that residential and commercial customers using automatic bill payments consumed 4-6% and 8% more power, respectively. This increase in demand may offset savings from energy demand-reduction programs. To combat this issue, utilities are exploring strategies to boost price salience.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Review of Economics and Statistics·DateApr 29, 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.

EORTC in EU blood-based cancer biomarkers consortium

The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) is part of the CANCER-ID consortium, a €22.7 million project exploring blood-based biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·DateApr 29, 2015

In online movie marketing, less is more

Research shows that digital movie consumers are highly sensitive to price, but surprisingly, promotions don't cannibalize video-on-demand rentals. Instead, they often increase them, as cross-channel discounts benefit both originating and competing channels.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateApr 29, 2015

Why do obese men get bariatric surgery far less than women?

A new study reveals a significant gender gap in bariatric surgery rates among U.S. men and women. Demographic, socioeconomic and cultural factors contribute to the disparity, with men undergoing surgeries at lower rates than women.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateApr 29, 2015

Dust from the Sahara Desert cools the Iberian Peninsula

Researchers from Spain and Portugal analyzed desert aerosols' radiative effect on the Earth's surface, finding that Sahara Desert dust caused cooling in August 2012. The team also discovered that anthropogenic pollution exacerbated this effect, leading to greater radiative cooling in both Évora and Badajoz.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAtmospheric Research·DateApr 29, 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.

Danish discovery may change cancer treatment

Researchers found that humans with genetically long telomeres have an increased risk of dying from cancer, contrary to expectations. The study suggests that targeting the repair process of telomeres could be a promising approach for cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 29, 2015

Traumatic events, financial struggles may threaten women's heart health

Research found that traumatic life events, such as losing a loved one or experiencing a life-threatening illness, increased the risk of heart attack in middle-aged and older women. Additionally, a history of financial struggle was independently associated with a two-fold higher risk for heart attack.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 29, 2015

Illuminating the dark zone

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara discover that WDR5 plays a crucial role in the final step of cell division, promoting the disassembly of midbody microtubules and contributing to abscission. The study reveals that WDR5 localizes to the dark zone of the midbody, a previously considered 'junk' structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 29, 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.

Bone marrow cell transplants used to treat fractures, lung injury, and renal obstruction

Researchers used bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells to treat fractures, lung injury, and renal obstruction. The cells promoted fracture healing in rats and attenuated acute lung injury in mice. They also showed therapeutic effects in treating pulmonary and extrapulmonary acute lung injury.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 29, 2015

Extinct species skull shape, ancestors help predict prehistoric diet

Researchers used modern carnivore models to infer prehistoric diets, finding a strong signal driven by ancestry and skull size. They successfully distinguished between hypercarnivores and generalists using biomechanical attributes, shedding light on extinct species like Thinocyon velox and Oodectes herpestoides.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2015

The key to reducing pain in surgery may already be in your hand

Research from Cornell University finds that texting during minor surgery under local anesthesia can significantly reduce pain demand, with stranger interactions more effective than companion conversations. Patients who texted with strangers received up to six times less narcotic pain relief compared to those without phone access.

SourceCornell University·JournalPain Medicine·DateApr 29, 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.

Most people eager to know the secrets of their genetics

A survey of nearly 7000 people found that 98% want to be informed if researchers stumble upon disease indicators in their genetic data. Genomic data has a perceived value, but clinically actionable data is the main interest. Healthcare professionals are concerned about sharing incidental findings and ancestry info.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 29, 2015

New fossil rattles Moby Dick's family tree

A new species of extinct pigmy sperm whale has been discovered in Panama, providing fresh evidence on the evolution of these whales and their distinctive spermaceti organ. The finding fills a key geographic gap in the group's ancient distribution and offers insights into the complex history of sound emission and echolocation.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2015

New Big Data era pushes training need for bioinformatics in life sciences

A high demand for bioinformatics training is driven by the increasing use of big data in life sciences. The Global Organisation for Bioinformatics Learning, Education & Training (GOBLET) aims to develop a global community-centred training portal with comprehensive resources and courses.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 29, 2015

Making robots more human

Researchers create ultra-sensitive wearable sensors that can detect subtle eye movements and facial expressions, allowing robots to understand human emotions. These advancements could lead to more intuitive interactions between humans and robots, improving their usability and user experience.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 29, 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.

New study shows how babies' lives were saved by 3-D printing

Researchers report promising results from using custom-designed airway splints to treat severe tracheobronchomalacia in three babies. The bioresorable splints successfully restored breathing and saved the lives of Kaiba, Garrett, and Ian, who were previously at risk of dying due to the condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 29, 2015