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Science News Archive April 2015 - Page 27


Page 27 of 36

A pathfinder for optogenetics

A new priority program funded by the German Research Foundation will develop next-generation optogenetic tools with higher light sensitivity. The program aims to expand optogenetics' application in basic research and medicine, particularly for treating vision and hearing impairments, Parkinson's disease, and cardiac diseases.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateApr 9, 2015

Two INRS professors appointed to the Global Young Academy

INRS Professors Patrizio Antici and Tiago Falk have been appointed to the Global Young Academy for their groundbreaking research in health, materials science, and cultural heritage. Their work aims to develop new technologies and solutions for society's pressing challenges.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateApr 9, 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.

Unravelling relativistic effects in the heaviest actinide element

The international collaboration measured lawrencium's first ionization potential with a novel technique, achieving excellent agreement with theoretical calculations that include relativistic effects. This validation confirms Lr's position in the Periodic Table and opens new perspectives for studying superheavy elements.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature·DateApr 9, 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.

Engineers now understand how complex carbon nanostructures form

Engineers can now predict how complex carbon nanostructures form through a new understanding of the forces involved. By analyzing these structures, designers can create nanotube forests with desired mechanical, thermal and electrical properties, leading to breakthroughs in various industries.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCarbon·DateApr 9, 2015

UTSW researchers lead collaborative charge to uncover genetic diversity of pancreatic cancer

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a wealth of genetic diversity in pancreatic cancer, including multiple mutated genes that were previously unknown. The study also revealed potential diagnostic biomarkers and defined cases where certain drugs are selectively effective against specific mutations.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 2015

Scientists tackle our addiction to salt and fat by altering foods' pore size, number

Researchers have discovered that manipulating porosity in processed foods can increase the release of salt during chewing, allowing for reduced salt content without sacrificing flavor. By controlling pore size and number, food manufacturers may be able to create lower-sodium alternatives to popular snacks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateApr 9, 2015

Researchers find new approach to treat drug-resistant HER2-positive breast cancer

Researchers have identified various ways that HER2-positive breast cancer tumors resist therapy and discovered a potential combination therapy to overcome multiple mechanisms of resistance. A novel combination of lapatinib and a BET bromodomain inhibitor was found to block the growth of cancer cells, making the activity of lapatinib du...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 9, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Choice of protein and carbohydrate-rich foods may have big effects on long-term weight gain

A new study from Tufts University found that diets high in glycemic load, such as those with refined grains and sugars, are associated with more weight gain. In contrast, protein-rich foods like fish, nuts, and yogurt are linked to weight loss, while dairy products with lower fat content do not seem to impact weight gain.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 9, 2015

Too many obstetrics beds in NYC hospitals: Cost to city is $26.4 million per year

Researchers found a significant excess of obstetrics beds in NYC hospitals, resulting in wasted resources and estimated annual costs of $26.4 million. Reducing cesarean section rates by even a small percentage could lead to large savings and improved patient access to care.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalMedical Care Research and Review·DateApr 9, 2015

Our sun came late to the Milky Way's star-birth party

The Milky Way's star formation rate peaked 10 billion years ago, but our sun formed about 5 billion years ago. This may have fostered the growth of our solar system's planets by enriching the galaxy with heavier elements.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 9, 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.

Quantum physics -- hot and cold at the same time

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology discovered that a cloud of atoms can exhibit multiple temperatures at once. The experiment utilized a microchip to cool the gas near absolute zero, allowing scientists to measure its behavior. This breakthrough helps understand the fundamental laws of quantum physics and their relationship...

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateApr 9, 2015

Mountain gorillas enter the genomic age

Researchers analyzed whole genomes of seven mountain gorillas, revealing genetic adaptations to small populations and a surprisingly low number of harmful genetic variations. This new understanding provides valuable insight into how apes adapt genetically to living in small populations.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 9, 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.

Combined sewer systems lead to risk of illness after heavy rains

A study found that combined sewer overflows can lead to a significant increase in emergency room visits for gastrointestinal illnesses, contaminating drinking water sources. The researchers analyzed data from three areas with combined sewer systems and found a 13% increase in ER visits after extreme precipitation events.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 9, 2015

Dynamic dead zones alter fish catches in Lake Erie

Scientists discovered that Lake Erie's dead zones are variable and move erratically, affecting fish distributions and catch rates. Fish like yellow perch cluster at the edges of these areas, making it essential to determine effective fishing strategies.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateApr 9, 2015

New Ebola study points to potential drug target

Researchers have found that the Ebola virus uses a protein called VP35 to remove its genetic material's protective coat, allowing it to replicate. Disrupting this process could potentially stop the spread of the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 9, 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.

Review highlights potential of cancer immunotherapy plus targeted therapy

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center review the potential of combining genomically targeted therapies with immune checkpoint blockade drugs to attack cancer. The approach shows promise, but more support is needed to accelerate progress and minimize side effects.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCell·DateApr 9, 2015

Ferromanganese crusts record past climates

Scientists have discovered that ferromanganese crusts, up to 26 cm thick, record past climate changes in the Arctic. The crusts' slow growth rates and geochemical fingerprints of their source regions provide valuable information on ocean currents and climate conditions over millions of years.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateApr 9, 2015

Chancellor helps OSC dedicate Ruby Cluster

The Ohio Supercomputer Center has dedicated the Ruby Cluster, a high-performance computing system built with HP-Intel Xeon Phi technology, to honor Ruby Dee. The cluster boasts an estimated peak performance of 144 TeraFLOPS and will support research collaboration, commercialization, and workforce development across Ohio.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateApr 9, 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.

Dispersant used to clean Deepwater Horizon spill more toxic to corals than the oil

A study published at Temple University reveals that the dispersant used in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill is more toxic to cold-water corals than the spilled oil. The researchers found that a lower concentration of dispersant was lethal to the corals, highlighting the potential risks of using these chemicals to clean up oil spills.

SourceTemple University·JournalDeep Sea Research Part II Topical Studies in Oceanography·DateApr 9, 2015

Brain scan study shows clot-busting drug benefits stroke patients

A recent study published in The Lancet Neurology has found that a clot-busting drug called alteplase can benefit stroke patients without increasing the risk of bleeding. Researchers analyzed over 3,000 people and discovered that patients with early tissue damage from strokes still benefit from receiving the drug.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 9, 2015

Flip-flopping black holes spin to the end of the dance

Researchers at RIT studied binary spinning black hole interactions, revealing a long-term spin dynamic that continuously flips the spin until merger. This process may affect the growth of black holes surrounded by accretion disks and alter galactic and supermassive binary black holes.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 9, 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.

How the brain balances risk-taking and learning

Researchers found that a neural circuit evaluates environmental variability to prompt animals to explore new locations. The circuit uses information from the animal's senses to determine predictability, triggering dopamine release and increased risk-taking behavior. This discovery could lead to better therapies for neurodegenerative an...

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateApr 9, 2015

Study: Amygdala encodes 'cooties' and 'crushes' in the developing brain

A study found that young children's aversion to opposite-sex peers (the 'cooties' effect) is encoded in the amygdala. As children enter puberty, interest in opposite-sex peers blooms anew, with some becoming infatuated with a member of the opposite sex.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateApr 9, 2015

Can facial plastic surgery make you more likeable?

A study of facial rejuvenation surgery finds that women who undergo certain procedures are perceived as more likeable, attractive and feminine. The study suggests that facial appearance plays a role in social perception, rooted in evolution, and may impact personality traits such as extroversion and trustworthiness.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateApr 9, 2015

Shakespeare's plays reveal his psychological signature

A study by Ryan Boyd and James Pennebaker uses psychological theory to analyze Shakespeare's plays, revealing a unique psychological profile that strongly identifies him as the author of Double Falsehood. The analysis also sheds light on Theobald's character, contradicting previous accounts.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 9, 2015

Microbes help produce serotonin in gut

Researchers at Caltech discovered that certain bacteria in the gut are essential for producing peripheral serotonin. The study found that mice with normal gut microbes had higher levels of serotonin than those without, and that specific species of bacteria elevated serotonin levels.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateApr 9, 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.

Dealing with death in deployment

A new University of Utah study found that exposure to killing and death while deployed is correlated with a 43% increased suicide risk compared to general deployment. The research suggests that seeing death and killing contributes to feelings of guilt, shame, regret, and negative self-perceptions.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·DateApr 9, 2015

Touch-sensing neurons are multitaskers

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that touch-sensing neurons integrate position and touch information as soon as it reaches the brain, challenging long-held views on how this is done. This integration enables complex sensory processing and informs efforts to improve prosthetic limbs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 9, 2015

Road salt guidelines need review to protect food chain in lakes: York U study

A recent York University study suggests that lake and highway authorities consider adjusting road salt use protocols to protect aquatic life such as the water flea, by taking the nutritional status of the lakes into account. The study found a direct relationship between how well-fed the animals were and their sensitivity to road salt.

SourceYork University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 9, 2015

NIH funds 9 antimicrobial resistance diagnostics projects

The NIH has awarded $11 million to develop diagnostic tools for hospital-associated pathogens, including those resistant to most antimicrobials. The goal is to provide rapid and efficient tests that can detect the presence of these bacteria in three hours or less.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 9, 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.

Drug regulations tied to fewer prescriptions of effective gout drug

A retrospective cohort study of nearly 217,000 patients with gout found that prescription rates for effective gout treatment decreased after the FDA increased prices. The study also showed significant increases in monthly total prescription bills, highlighting the negative impact of regulatory actions on access to affordable medications.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 9, 2015

Increased levels of radon in Pennsylvania homes correspond to onset of fracking

Radon levels in Pennsylvania homes have risen since 2004, coinciding with the onset of fracking. The study found higher readings in buildings near active gas wells compared to low-activity areas. Radon is a known carcinogen that can accumulate in homes without adequate ventilation, increasing lung cancer risk.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 9, 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.

TGen finds likely genetic source of muscle weakness in 6 previously undiagnosed children

Scientists at TGen discovered the likely cause of severe muscle weakness in six previously undiagnosed children using state-of-the-art genetic technology. The researchers identified pathogenic variants in genes such as CACNA1S, RYR1, COL6A3, and COL6A6, providing new insights into rare myopathies.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalMolecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine·DateApr 9, 2015

The benefits of storytelling in video games

A new study suggests that non-violent video games with storytelling can have prosocial benefits, improving emotional intelligence and social skills. The research found that immersive gaming experiences foster theory of mind and empathy, which can be helpful in treating disorders like autism.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateApr 9, 2015

New high-throughput screening method may uncover novel treatments for kidney disease

A new assay developed by researchers can identify novel drug candidates that protect kidney cells from damage, which could lead to the development of new treatments for chronic kidney disease. The system has already identified a small molecule called pyrintegrin that effectively protected rodent kidney cells.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 9, 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.

Hormones that guide root growth rates revealed

Researchers from Carnegie Institution for Science discovered that brassinosteroids and auxin hormones work antagonistically to regulate root cell elongation, affecting the rate of root growth. This finding could lead to engineering more-efficient crops with idealized root growth and water uptake.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 9, 2015

Exceptionally preserved fossil gives voice to ancient terror bird

A new species of terror bird, Llallawavis scagliai, has been discovered with exceptionally preserved fossils revealing details about its anatomy and sensory capabilities. The study provides insights into the evolution, behavior, and ecology of this group of fossil birds.

SourceSociety of Vertebrate Paleontology·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateApr 9, 2015

Inbreeding in mountain gorillas may contribute to save the species

Research suggests that inbreeding has genetically benefited mountain gorillas by eliminating deleterious variations, contributing to their survival. This discovery challenges the assumption that low genetic diversity makes these animals more susceptible to environmental changes and diseases.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience·DateApr 9, 2015

First report of a new crop virus in North America

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a new mastrevirus, SgMaV-1, infecting switchgrass in North America. The virus is closely related to known pathogens in Australia and may be transmitted by leafhoppers, posing risks to staple food crops like corn and wheat.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalArchives of Virology·DateApr 9, 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.