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Science News Archive April 2015 - Page 33


Page 33 of 36

OU physicists first to create new molecule with record-setting dipole moment

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have successfully created a new molecule with an unprecedented electric dipole moment, opening up potential pathways for the development of scalable quantum computers. The molecule's unique property allows it to react with electric fields like a bar magnet reacts with magnetic fields.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScience·DateApr 3, 2015

Fertility patients' history is best predictor of risk for major depression

Research from San Francisco State University reveals that fertility treatment patients are more likely to experience major depressive disorder (MDD) than the general population. A key factor in predicting a patient's risk is whether they have a previous diagnosis of MDD, which is often overlooked by healthcare providers.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateApr 3, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Possible progress against Parkinson's and good news for stem cell therapies

Researchers have developed a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for Parkinson's disease using mitomycin-treated embryonic stem cells. The treatment showed significant improvements in motor function and survival rate in mice, with no tumor formation detected.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateApr 3, 2015

Better actionless than action-taking

A recent study found that unconscious priming of acceptance attitude can effectively reduce frustrating emotional responses. Unconscious acceptance serves as a stable background, reducing frustration from the start, whereas conscious acceptance requires salient experience of unpleasant emotion.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 3, 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.

Black holes don't erase information, scientists say

New research shows that black holes do not erase information, but rather preserve it through the interactions of particles emitted by the black hole. This discovery challenges the long-standing 'information loss paradox' in physics.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 2, 2015

American Cancer Society awards new research and training grants

The American Cancer Society has awarded $45.6 million in research and training grants to fund investigations into colon cancer, social inequalities in cancer, and other areas of cancer research. The grants will be used to develop vaccines targeting cancer initiation and challenge the mainstream approach to social inequalities in cancer.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateApr 2, 2015

Astronomers watch unfolding saga of massive star formation

Scientists observed a young, massive star changing shape over 18 years, revealing key stages of its formation. A torus-shaped dusty environment slowed down an initially spherical outflow, resulting in an elongated, beam-like structure.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 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.

Statistical analysis reveals Mexican drug war increased homicide rates

A new statistical analysis reveals that the Mexican government's war against drugs increased the average murder rate in regions subjected to military-style interventions. The study found an average increase of nearly 11 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants across 18 affected regions, with some experiencing a significant reduction and othe...

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·JournalThe American Statistician·DateApr 2, 2015

Accurate blood pressure measurement fundamental to early diagnosis in pregnancy

A review emphasizes the importance of accurate blood pressure measurement for early diagnosis and management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. It identifies factors leading to inaccuracies and calls for more well-designed studies on optimal vital sign predictors to guide assessment in obstetric shock.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Obstetrician & Gynaecologist·DateApr 2, 2015

Battery energy storage project shows promise for electricity network

A Griffith University research project has developed an intelligent scheduling system to manage peak demand and load balancing in low-voltage electricity distribution networks. The system uses battery energy storage to store surplus energy during the day and distribute it when needed, reducing peak generation charges and improving powe...

SourceGriffith University·JournalApplied Energy·DateApr 2, 2015

Liver injury in NASH leads to a leaky gut

Research links non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with increased intestinal permeability, suggesting a 'gut-liver axis' role in its development. The study found that liver injury may precede changes in gut permeability, potentially worsening liver disease.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateApr 2, 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.

NTU finds new treatment options for colon cancer

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have found that Imatinib, a leukemia drug, can prevent and control the growth of colorectal tumours. The study suggests that short-term intermittent chemotherapies could be effective in treating colon cancer, reducing side effects associated with long-term treatment.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 2, 2015

Dual therapy's 1-2 punch knocks out drug-resistant lung cancer

Researchers at UCSF identified a biological escape hatch that explains resistance to targeted drug treatment in lung cancer patients. Combining two compounds, erlotinib and PBS-1086, effectively wipes out cancer cells in mice implanted with cells from drug-resistant tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 2, 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.

Being born in lean times is bad news for baboons

A recent study on wild baboons reveals that those born during periods of famine have long-term effects on female fertility, making them 60% less likely to become pregnant during food shortages. The findings support the idea that early adversity carries lifelong costs and can lead to poor health as adults.

SourceDuke University·DateApr 2, 2015

Could a tiny particle stem the plague of citrus greening?

Researchers are testing Zinkicide, a nanoparticle bactericide, to combat citrus greening in Florida. The treatment aims to target the bacteria that causes Huanglongbing, a disease that has devastated the state's $10.7 billion citrus industry.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateApr 2, 2015

Key mechanism identified in tumor-cell proliferation in pediatric bone cancers

A molecular pathway permits stem cells to grow rapidly and aggressively in pediatric bone cancers, according to researchers at NYU Langone Health. The transcription factor Sox2 releases the floodgates in the Hippo pathway, allowing for the growth of highly aggressive tumor-forming stem cells.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 2, 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.

Deconstructing brain systems involved in memory and spatial skills

The study suggests the hippocampus is primarily associated with memory formation and not spatial skills. Patients with hippocampal lesions can perform spatial tasks as long as these tasks don't depend on long-term memory, supported by frontal lobe functions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2015

Strong grasp of immune response dynamics will enhance checkpoint blockade

A new review emphasizes the need to decipher immune response dynamics to enhance cancer immunotherapy. Researchers suggest developing combination therapies and biomarker panels to increase treatment impact, as single biomarkers are unlikely to predict patient responses.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2015

Rapid increase in neonicotinoid insecticides driven by seed treatments

The use of neonicotinoid insecticides increased dramatically in the US, primarily driven by corn and soybean seeds treated with the pesticides. Researchers found that at least a third of all soybean acres and over 79% of all corn acres were planted with neonicotinoid-coated seed by 2011.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 2, 2015

An 'evolutionary relic' of the genome causes cancer

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that the non-coding BRAF pseudogene contributes to the development of an aggressive lymphoma-like cancer in animal models. The study suggests that pseudogenes may play a primary role in various diseases and could significantly expand the functional genome.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCell·DateApr 2, 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.

One test can predict which kids will become nearsighted

A study of 4,500 US children over 20 years identifies a single test that can predict which kids will become nearsighted by the eighth grade: a measure of their current refractive error. The research counters the notion that near work causes myopia and confirms that eight risk factors increase the likelihood of developing myopia.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 2, 2015

Suzaku studies supernova 'crime scene,' shows a single white dwarf to blame

Astronomers have determined the pre-explosion mass of a white dwarf star that blew up thousands of years ago using archival data from the Japan-led Suzaku X-ray satellite. The study suggests that only a single white dwarf was involved in the explosion, contradicting a well-established alternative scenario.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 2, 2015

Hormone and bone tests may be indicative of dialysis patients' heart health

A study found that dialysis patients with high parathyroid hormone levels and subsequent bone loss are at risk for worsening coronary artery calcification. Monitoring these factors could help prevent cardiovascular problems and early death in dialysis patients.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 2, 2015

Researchers produce iPSC model to better understand genetic lung/liver disease

Researchers have created a disease signature for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which may lead to new treatments. The study found that liver cells derived from AAT deficient iPSCs are more sensitive to drugs that cause liver toxicity than normal cells.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 2, 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.

Eating eggs reduces risk of type 2 diabetes

A study published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that egg consumption was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Men who ate four eggs per week had a 37% lower risk compared to those who ate one egg per week.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 2, 2015

Optics, nanotechnology combined to create low-cost sensor for gases

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a low-cost sensor that can detect and analyze a wide range of gases using optical technology and nanocomposite thin-films. The sensor is highly sensitive, fast, and portable, making it suitable for applications in environmental monitoring, airport security, and industrial uses.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateApr 2, 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.

Researchers create artificial link between unrelated memories

In a groundbreaking study, researchers used optogenetics to artificially associate the memory of a foot shock with an unrelated environment, triggering increased fear-related behavior. The findings suggest that co-activated cell ensembles can link two distinct memories, paving the way for new treatments of psychiatric disorders.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 2, 2015

WebTIPS helps make surgery less scary for children -- and their parents

A new website called WebTIPS provides individualized information and support to help children and parents prepare for surgery, reducing anxiety levels. The site uses evidence-based strategies and interactive features like animations and games to familiarize children with the hospital experience.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAnesthesia & Analgesia·DateApr 2, 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.

Mayo Clinic researchers combine common genetic variants to improve breast cancer

A Mayo Clinic-led team has combined 77 common genetic variants into a polygenic risk score to improve breast cancer identification. The score is associated with a higher or lower risk of developing breast cancer, and can be used in conjunction with traditional predictors to personalize estimates.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 2, 2015

Can light therapy help the brain?

Researchers are testing light therapy on brain function in veterans with Gulf War Illness, using red and near-infrared light to improve blood flow and stimulate damaged brain cells. The study aims to determine if this therapy can be a valuable adjunct to standard cognitive rehabilitation.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·DateApr 2, 2015

Physical activity benefits lung cancer patients and survivors

Physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms, increase exercise tolerance, and improve quality of life in lung cancer patients. Additionally, increased physical activity may also benefit lung cancer survivors by improving exercise capacity and symptom burden.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 2, 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.

Mitochondria are altered in human cell model of Parkinson's disease

Researchers at the Buck Institute have confirmed that Parkinson's disease mutations alter mitochondrial function in human cells for the first time. The study provides a tool for testing potential therapeutics and promises to address concerns about genetic differences between patients.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 2, 2015

UofL recognized as Kentucky's expert for public health workforce development

The University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences has been selected as Kentucky's Local Performance Site within the Region IV Public Health Training Center. The program aims to strengthen the public health workforce in the southern US region, providing education and training for healthcare professionals.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateApr 2, 2015

Cigarette smoke makes superbugs more aggressive

Researchers found that cigarette smoke made MRSA bacteria more resistant to killing by the immune system, increasing their ability to invade human cells. In mouse experiments, smoke-exposed MRSA caused pneumonia with a higher mortality rate.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateApr 2, 2015

HIV spreads like internet malware and should be treated earlier

A new model for HIV progression finds that it spreads in a similar way to some computer worms, predicting early treatment is key to preventing AIDS. The model shows that cell-to-cell transfer is an important part of HIV spread and that completely blocking this mechanism could prevent progression to AIDS.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 2, 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.

Critical windows to turn away junk food craving

University of Adelaide researchers found two critical windows when exposure to junk food is most harmful, late pregnancy and adolescence. Eating a healthy diet during these periods may reverse junk-food preference in males but not females.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 2, 2015

High-fat dairy products linked to reduced type 2 diabetes risk

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that high-fat dairy products are associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. Researchers analyzed data from 27,000 individuals and found those who consumed more high-fat dairy had a 23% lower risk

SourceLund University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 2, 2015

Dying patients' choices not always aligned to caregivers'

Patients with stage IV cancer prioritize pain management, home deaths, and quality of healthcare over life extension, while caregivers are willing to pay more for these services. The study suggests that patients' preferences should be directly elicited during treatment decision-making.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalPalliative Medicine·DateApr 2, 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.

TRMM satellite makes direct pass over Super Typhoon Maysak

The TRMM satellite provided a remarkable image of Super Typhoon Maysak, revealing an eye wall replacement cycle in progress. The storm's intensity is characterized by near-perfect symmetry around the center, with maximum sustained winds estimated at 140 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 2, 2015

Deaths from cardiovascular disease increase globally while mortality rates decrease

The number of global cardiovascular deaths has risen by 41% between 1990 and 2013, but death rates within specific age groups have dropped by 39%. Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of premature death globally, with population aging contributing to an estimated 55% increase in cardiovascular disease deaths.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 2, 2015