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Science News Archive August 2015


Page 32 of 32

What would the world look like to someone with a bionic eye?

A new study provides visual simulations of what someone with restored vision might see after undergoing sight recovery therapies, highlighting the limitations of current technologies. The simulations reveal that patients may experience fuzzy or blurred outlines, and temporary visual disappearances.

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.

Fatherhood at young age linked to greater likelihood of mid-life death

Research finds that men who become dads before age 25 have poorer health and die earlier than those who delay fatherhood. The study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, used a nationally representative sample of over 30,500 men to track their mortality rates from age 45 until death or age 54.

New insight into how the immune system sounds the alarm

T cells' activation relies on a dynamic protein network at the cell surface, with proteins coming and going in rapid intervals. Understanding this process could help boost the immune response against diseases like cancer or infections.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Are animal models still essential to biological research?

Animal models are still crucial for medical research, according to experts, as they have led to tremendous progress in treating human and animal diseases. The authors argue that alternative methods, such as in vitro research, are not yet ready to replace animal models entirely.

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.

How to convince vaccine skeptics -- and how not to

Researchers at UCLA and University of Illinois found that emphasizing the benefits of vaccination and taking a non-confrontational approach can increase support for vaccination among skeptical parents. A study with 315 adults showed that highlighting the dangers of measles and mumps can substantially increase support for vaccination.

How language gives your brain a break

A recent study by MIT researchers found that most languages tend to minimize dependency length (DLM) in practice, preferring words related to each other to be close together. This tendency is associated with simpler language use and reduced cognitive load for speakers, listeners, and readers.

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.

Nanoparticles used to breach mucus barrier in lungs

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a DNA-loaded nanoparticle that can penetrate the human airway mucus barrier in lungs, offering a potential breakthrough for treating cystic fibrosis and other lung diseases. The biodegradable nanoparticles successfully delivered therapeutic genes to the lungs of animals, producing hi...

Earliest evidence of reproduction in a complex organism

Researchers at University of Cambridge found earliest example of reproduction in rangeomorphs, a type of ancient organism. They replicated their distribution using spatial statistics and modeling, finding dual mode of reproduction involving waterborne propagules and stolons.

Employee health codes of conduct

A new study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management suggests that Health Codes of Conduct can effectively engage employees in wellness activities. The study found that features such as annual physicals, exercise routines, and recognition programs were most supported by participants.

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.

Brazilian company doubles shelf life of pasteurized fresh milk

Agrindus and Nanox developed a technology that extends the shelf life of grade A pasteurized whole milk from seven to 15 days by incorporating silver-based microparticles into rigid plastic bottles. This innovation doubles the shelf life, benefiting logistics, storage, quality, and food safety.

Molecular spies to fight cancer

Scientists have successfully tested a new tumor diagnosis method that uses molecular spies to detect diseased cells and visualize tumors. The method, which combines antibody-based detection with pre-targeting technology, has the potential to improve cancer treatment by using internal radiation.

New method reveals hidden population of regulatory molecules in cells

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have developed a new RNA sequencing technique that reveals an abundance of modified fragments derived from transfer RNA molecules in both yeast and human cells. This discovery opens up a rapidly growing area of RNA research, increasing the detection of transfer RNA fragments by three-fold.

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.

Volcanic bacteria take minimalist approach to survival

Scientists have discovered that a strain of bacteria can survive without traditional nutrients by harnessing trace gases like hydrogen from the air. This breakthrough reveals the 'minimalist approach' to survival used by these microorganisms in extreme environments.

Canadian study sheds surprising light on the causes of cerebral palsy

A Canadian study found that 10% of children with cerebral palsy have copy number variations affecting genes deemed clinically relevant. This discovery could lead to the integration of genomic analyses into diagnostic assessments for cerebral palsy, providing new insights and treatment options.

From cameras to computers, new material could change how we work and play

Researchers at Northeastern University have developed a new material that exhibits magnetic, optical, and electrical properties, including thermal sensitivity. The material, known as 2D-BNCO, has the potential to be used in various applications such as high-resolution camera arrays, photo detectors, and atomically thin transistors.

Study calculates the speed of ice formation

The study provides insight into the mechanism of water transitioning from a liquid to a crystalline solid. It also explores the origin of two different crystalline shapes that ice can take at ambient pressure, shedding light on why cubic ice is favored over hexagonal ice during initial stages of nucleation.

How the finch changes its tune

Researchers have discovered a neurological mechanism that explains how songbirds refine and alter their songs as adults, shedding light on the human brain's learning complex motor skills. The finding may have long-term implications for treating neurological conditions.

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.

BrightFocus Foundation announces research grant recipients for 2015

BrightFocus Foundation has awarded $11 million in research grants to 58 scientists worldwide. The grants focus on treatments for age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, with a emphasis on early detection, disease progression, and potential interventions.

Artificial blood vessels become resistant to thrombosis

Researchers from ITMO University created a vascular graft coating that prevents clot formation, ensuring unobstructed blood flow. The coating, which can be applied to any type of implant, uses a porous shell to release medication and prevent the growth of crystals or other unwanted substances.

Residential location affects pregnant women's likelihood of smoking

A new study from Rice University finds that living in areas with lower socio-economic resources but higher social acceptability of smoking increases the likelihood of pregnant women smoking. Counties with higher socio-economic status have lower odds of women smoking during pregnancy, while neighboring counties' smoking prevalence signi...

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.

Punctuating messages encoded in human genome with transposable elements

Recent study finds that Mammalian-wide Interspersed Repeats (MIRs) serve as genetic landmarks to target regulatory mechanisms, coordinating gene expression in cells. Boundary elements, encoded by MIRs, help establish the geography of genome packaging, controlling timing and extent of gene expression.

Quantum states in a nano-object manipulated using a mechanical system

Researchers have successfully coherently manipulated an electron spin embedded in a diamond resonator using a mechanical oscillating system. The discovery enables fast spin oscillation and precise measurement, making it suitable for highly sensitive sensors and potentially revolutionizing quantum computing.

NYU scientists bring order, and color, to microparticles

New York University researchers have developed a method to prompt microparticles to form ordered structures, opening the door for improved materials used in consumer products. The technique, centered on DNA-coated colloids, allows for the creation of new compounds with unique properties.

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.

Internet accessibility an important factor in government transparency

Researchers found that county governments in densely populated urban areas are more transparent on their websites if citizens have good Internet access. The study identified factors contributing to government transparency, including internet access, education level, poverty level, minority populations and population density.

Nature: Compact optical data transmission

Researchers at KIT created a 12.5-micrometer-long Mach-Zehnder modulator that converts digital signals into optical signals at speeds of up to 108 gigabits per second, promising a solution for data centers' power consumption and speed limits.

Engineering a better 'do: Purdue researchers are learning how

Purdue researchers are working to learn precisely how much heat to apply and how frequently to use heat treatment for a given hair type without destroying it. The team has developed a prototype system that simulates a flat iron passing over hair, using an infrared microscope to study the behavior of heat on different hair types.

Waiving Medicare's 3-day rule lessens hospital stay

A new study finds that waiving the 3-day rule in Medicare Advantage plans results in shorter hospital stays, with a net difference of 0.7 fewer days on average, and may lead to cost savings for these plans without compromising patient outcomes.

Further evidence of genetic key to deadliest form of skin cancer

Scientists have uncovered five new common genetic risk factors for melanoma and confirmed two others, establishing the role of telomeres in its development. Skin pigmentation is also a key genetic determinant, emphasizing the importance of sun protection for individuals with pale skin and many moles.

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.

When farm to table means crossing international borders

A new study finds that US consumers prefer to buy meat labeled as originating from the US due to perceptions of safety and taste. However, retailer-provided information about equivalent standards in other countries can increase acceptance of international products.

Greenhouse gases' millennia-long ocean legacy

A new study warns that continued carbon dioxide emission trends would leave a lasting impact on the deep ocean, with acidification and warming posing significant threats to marine life. Removing CO2 from the atmosphere through Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) strategies may not be effective in reversing these effects.

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.

Yo-yo dieting not associated with increased cancer risk

A comprehensive study by the American Cancer Society found no association between repeated cycles of intentional weight loss and cancer incidence in men or women. The research suggests that people should be encouraged to try to lose weight despite potential regain, as it may have benefits beyond just weight management.

Web interventions for alcohol misuse

Researchers found limited evidence that web-based interventions reduced alcohol consumption in adults and college students who screened positive for hazardous alcohol use. Higher intensity interventions with human support are suggested to have greater benefits.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Want to boost your toddler's development? Put a toy chicken on your head!

A University of Sheffield study found that parents' joking and pretending with their children as young as 16 months old helps them develop essential life skills. By picking up on parental cues, toddlers learn to distinguish between joke and pretend intentions, leading to improved cognitive abilities and creative thinking.

Brain teaser: 3-D printed 'tissue' to help combat disease

Researchers at ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science develop a 6-layered structure incorporating neural cells, mimicking brain tissue. The breakthrough enables important insights into brain function and provides an experimental test bed for new drugs and electroceuticals.

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.

New design brings world's first solar battery to performance milestone

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed the world's first aqueous solar flow battery, which achieves a 20% energy savings over traditional lithium-iodine batteries. The new design combines a solar cell and a battery into a single device using a water-based electrolyte and a solid sheet solar panel.

Childhood cancer cells drain immune system's batteries

Researchers have discovered that neuroblastoma cells produce a molecule called 'arginase' that breaks down arginine, an essential energy source for immune cells. This creates an immunosuppressive microenvironment that impairs the body's ability to fight the disease.