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Science News Archive August 2015 - Page 2


Page 2 of 32

Millipede research 2.0

The first new species of millipede is described using high-detail 3D images, providing unprecedented access to anatomical information. The cybertype-enhanced description allows for widespread sharing and study of the digital specimen, enabling researchers to analyze its unique traits without dissecting the original holotype.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 31, 2015

Epigenomic changes are key to innate immunological memory

Researchers have discovered that epigenomic changes induced by pathogen infections, mediated by a transcription factor called ATF7, are the underlying mechanism of innate immunological memory. This finding could increase our understanding of the hygiene hypothesis and lead to the development of more efficient vaccines.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 31, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New type of prion may cause, transmit neurodegeneration

Researchers have identified a new type of prion causing Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a neurodegenerative disorder with similarities to Parkinson's disease. The discovery raises concerns about treatments and research involving contact with brain tissue from MSA patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2015

Evidence of ancient life discovered in mantle rocks deep below the seafloor

Researchers found fossilized microbes in ancient rock samples from the Iberian continental margin, confirming a long-standing hypothesis that interactions between mantle rocks and seawater can create conditions for life. The discovery provides important insights into the possibility of 'intraterrestrial' life in rocks below the seafloor.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2015

Quantifying the impact of volcanic eruptions on climate

A new method reconciles observational proxy and model evidence, demonstrating that the Tampora and Samalas eruptions generated an average drop in temperature in the Northern Hemisphere fluctuating between 0.8 and 1.3°C during the summer of 1258 and 1816. This cooling did not last for more than three years at a hemispheric scale.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 31, 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.

Examining service delivery, patient outcomes in Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program

A study found that RWHAP-funded facilities provided more comprehensive services, including case management and mental health support, compared to non-funded facilities. Despite this, nearly 75% of patients at RWHAP-funded facilities achieved viral suppression, while some subgroups benefited from these services.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 31, 2015

NASA finds 'hot towers' in Fred, now a hurricane

NASA's GPM mission detected intense rainfall near the center of Hurricane Fred on August 30, suggesting rapid intensification. The storm's 'hot towers' reached heights of up to 10 miles, releasing latent heat and fueling its growth into a hurricane.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 31, 2015

Endangered animals can be identified by rate of genetic diversity loss

A Purdue University study develops a statistical approach to estimate the number of generations remaining before a population reaches low genetic variation. The method performs significantly better than current methods for identifying species in need of conservation efforts.

SourcePurdue University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateAug 31, 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.

Closer to a treatment for the 'asthma of the esophagus'

Researchers discovered MIF, a molecule involved in EoE, which can be targeted for therapy. The study suggests a novel approach to treating this hard-to-treat food allergy, offering hope for patients with difficulty swallowing.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateAug 31, 2015

Study: Some with low-risk prostate cancer not likely to succumb to the disease

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine analyzed survival statistics of 1,298 men with low-risk prostate tumors and found that only two died of prostate cancer after 15 years, while three developed metastatic disease. This suggests that carefully selected patients in active surveillance programs are unlikely to be harmed by their disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 31, 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.

Television viewing linked to higher injury risk in hostile people

Research found that people with hostile personalities who watch more TV are at a greater risk for injury. The study, which analyzed data from 4,196 adults, suggests that reducing TV viewing and improving content rating systems could lower injury rates among these individuals.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Injury Control and Safety Promotion·DateAug 31, 2015

The 5-colour nutritional labelling system is the most effective for consumers

The study found that the 5-color nutritional labeling system is more effective than other systems in helping consumers understand food quality. This system, which uses a color-coded label to indicate nutrient content, was shown to increase the ability of individuals to rank foods by nutritional quality.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNutrients·DateAug 31, 2015

Knee and hip replacements may be bad for the heart

A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that osteoarthritis patients who underwent total knee or hip joint replacement surgery were at increased risk of heart attack immediately following arthroplasty. However, long-term risk was insignificant, while the risk for venous thromboembolism remained years after the procedure.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateAug 31, 2015

Short sleepers are 4 times more likely to catch a cold

A new study by UC San Francisco researchers found that people who sleep six hours a night or less are four times more likely to catch a cold compared to those who spend more than seven hours in slumber. The study used objective sleep measures and found that short sleep was the most significant factor in predicting illness.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalSLEEP·DateAug 31, 2015

Gaming computers offer huge, untapped energy savings potential

A new study from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that gaming computers consume 20% of global PC energy use, but can be optimized for up to 75% energy savings through setting changes and component swaps. By doing so, gamers can improve reliability and performance while reducing their carbon footprint.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Efficiency·DateAug 31, 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.

Organized self-management support eases chronic depression

A randomized controlled trial found that a self-management support service improved patients' symptoms and recovery scores. The program combined behavioral therapy with recovery-oriented approach, focusing on achieving life goals despite symptoms. Participants showed significant improvements compared to usual care.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateAug 31, 2015

Using nanotechnology to fight cancer

The new Northwestern University Center for Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence will use nucleic-acid-based nanoconstructs called Spherical Nucleic Acids (SNAs) to discover new aspects of cancer biology and create effective cancer treatment options. SNAs are nontoxic to humans, offering a versatile tool in medicine.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateAug 31, 2015

Single mothers much more likely to live in poverty than single fathers, study finds

A University of Illinois study finds that single mothers earn significantly less than single fathers, widening the gender gap. Single mothers are more likely to live in poverty and struggle financially due to lack of child support, whereas single fathers tend to be better off financially after a divorce.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGender Issues·DateAug 31, 2015

Infection with multiple HIV-1 variants leads to poorer clinical outcomes

Researchers found that infection with multiple founder HIV-1 variants results in significantly higher mean viral loads and poorer clinical outcomes. The study analyzed data from two large HIV vaccine efficacy trials and showed that the number of variants at the beginning of infection affects the setpoint for viral load.

SourceThe U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP)·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 31, 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.

Grey Swans: Rare but predictable storms could pose big hazards

Researchers at Princeton and MIT have used computer models to predict the potential storm surge waters for three cities: Tampa, Cairns, and Dubai. The study found that powerful storms could generate dangerous storm surges in all three cities, with odds of 1 in 10,000 in an average year.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 31, 2015

Young women with diabetes have 6-fold risk of heart attack

A recent study presented at ESC Congress found that young women with diabetes have a six-fold risk of heart attack. The research, which analyzed data from over 7,000 women, also revealed that smoking was the leading risk factor for young women with myocardial infarction.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 31, 2015

Scientists engineer designer proteins that control enzyme activity

Researchers from the University of Chicago have developed a novel approach to control enzyme activity using monobodies, synthetic proteins that recognize and bind specific target molecules. They successfully altered the specificity of an enzyme used in the food industry without modifying it, paving the way for bespoke reactions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 31, 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.

Scientists reveal New Zealand's prehistoric wildlife sanctuaries

A research team used ancient-DNA analysis and radiocarbon dating to reconstruct population histories for prehistoric seabirds in New Zealand. They found that mainland populations were rapidly decimated after human arrival, while Stewart Island populations remained relatively stable due to a decline in human numbers.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateAug 31, 2015

Using DNA origami to build nanodevices of the future

Scientists at Kyoto University developed an approach to assemble DNA origami units into larger structures by using a double layer of lipids. This method allows for more freedom of movement and interaction between origami structures, enabling them to form nanomachines such as nanomotors for targeted drug delivery

SourceInstitute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 31, 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.

Possible new weapon against PTSD

Researchers discovered that chronic stress strengthens traumatic memories in the brain, leading to PTSD. Blocking this process with serotonin-blocking drugs may offer a new treatment option for the disorder.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 31, 2015

Gene therapy fully restores vision in mouse model of Leber congenital amaurosis

Scientists have successfully used gene therapy to fully restore vision in a mouse model of Leber congenital amaurosis-1, a genetic disorder causing severe visual impairment. The treatment, which replaced the deficient retGC1 protein, showed long-lasting results and supports clinical testing for human patients.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateAug 31, 2015

Lizards can stomach island living

A study found that island-dwelling Balkan green lizards have a longer small intestine and hindgut compared to their mainland counterparts. They also possess cecal valves, which slow down food passage and provide fermenting chambers, allowing them to digest more plant material.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe Science of Nature·DateAug 31, 2015
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

SLU researcher opens next chapter on blood-clotting mysteries

SLU researcher Nicola Pozzi is seeking to understand the molecular mechanisms of prothrombin and thrombin to develop more effective life-saving drugs. The research builds on previous breakthroughs in blood-clotting protein structure, which may lead to a better understanding of how prothrombin is converted to thrombin.

SourceSaint Louis University·DateAug 31, 2015

Gene leads to nearsightedness when kids read

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have discovered a gene variant, APLP2, that increases the risk of myopia in children who spend more time reading. Spending time outdoors is found to reduce this risk.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 31, 2015

Deciphering the olfactory receptor code

Scientists have created a tool that can identify thousands of chemosensory receptors stimulated by specific smells in various species, from mice to flies. This breakthrough could help unravel the logic of chemosensory code across animal species and has countless applications, including understanding behaviors triggered by odorants.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 31, 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.

'Eat me' signal whets appetites for tumor-devouring dendritic cells

Researchers find that using a monoclonal antibody to block the 'eat me' signal on malignant cells triggers a more potent immune response in dendritic cells, which then activate killer T cells and boost adaptive immunity. The study suggests a new approach for developing an effective cancer immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 31, 2015

Adenosine triphosphate does not improve efficacy of pulmonary vein isolation

A recent study found that adding adenosine triphosphate to pulmonary vein isolation treatment for atrial fibrillation did not significantly reduce late recurrences of the condition. The study, which included 2,113 patients, used ATP to identify and address potential gaps in electrical conduction around the pulmonary veins.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 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.

Patient education does not impact apixaban adherence

A recent trial published at ESC Congress 2015 found that patient education programs did not significantly impact apixaban adherence. Adherence rates were high across both the control and education groups, with minimal difference observed between the two.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 30, 2015

Cyclosporine does not improve outcomes after PCI

The CIRCUS trial found that cyclosporine did not reduce all-cause death, hospitalization for heart failure, or adverse left ventricular remodelling in STEMI patients undergoing PCI. The study suggested that targeting reperfusion injury remains a major challenge for PCI cardiologists.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 30, 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.

Gene regulating severity of tissue damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis identified

A new protein (C5orf30) has been identified as a genetic marker that can help regulate the severity of tissue damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis. This discovery enables early identification of patients at risk of severe joint damage, allowing for fast-tracked treatment with more aggressive therapies.

SourceUniversity College Dublin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 30, 2015

Study shows that food may be addictive

A study found that obese individuals' brains show different connectivity patterns when craving food compared to normal-weight individuals. The researchers discovered a link between increased brain activity and weight gain in obese subjects.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateAug 30, 2015

Recruitment of leukocytes is a hallmark of stent thrombosis

The study found that immune cell-mediated thrombotic processes are a realistic target for novel therapies to prevent stent thrombosis. Leukocyte infiltrations were hallmarks of both early and late ST, with neutrophils being the most prominent subset.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 30, 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.