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Science News Archive January 2015


Page 8 of 28

High cholesterol during young adulthood raises heart disease risk

A new study published in Circulation reveals that long-term exposure to elevated cholesterol levels substantially increases lifetime risk for heart disease. Adults with longstanding mild to moderately elevated cholesterol levels may benefit from more aggressive prevention strategies earlier, according to the study's lead author.

Towards a scientific process freed from systemic bias

Large-scale analysis of bibliographic data reveals insights into scientific evaluation methods and publication practices. The studies found cumulative advantage in initial publishing success, detectable patterns in author name disambiguation, and limitations of citation-based measures for quantifying scientific impact.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UCI, fellow chemists find a way to unboil eggs

UCI professors have developed a device that can restore molecular proteins in egg whites after they have been boiled, potentially slashing biotechnology costs. This innovation could transform industrial and research production of proteins, making cancer treatments more affordable and improving protein manufacturing efficiency.

Protein-based therapy shows promise against resistant leukemia

A new protein-based therapy has been developed to target drug-resistant leukemia cells, with promising results in mouse models and potentially amplifying the potency of standard treatment options. The fusion protein CD19L-sTRAIL selectively binds and delivers a 'death signal' to leukemia cells.

Researchers identify materials to improve biofuel and petroleum processing

A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota discovered potential materials that could improve ethanol and petroleum production, reducing multi-step processes and costs. The study identified all-silica zeolites with superior performance for separating ethanol from water and upgrading petroleum compounds into higher-value products.

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.

Would you tell your manager you had a mental health problem?

A CAMH survey found that nearly four in 10 workers are reluctant to disclose mental health problems to their managers, citing concerns about career impact and stigma. However, the study also reveals that supportive policies and positive relationships with managers can encourage disclosure and create a more supportive work environment.

Leaky channels could contribute to unusual heart arrhythmias

Researchers found that mutant sodium channels with opposite effects on channel function can lead to disruptions in normal cardiac function due to ion leaks. This overload of positively charged ions within the cell may be a key mechanism linking these mutations to atypical arrhythmias and dilated cardiomyopathy.

Staircase fractures in microbialites and travertines, Italy

Researchers from Italy and Brazil present a new conceptual model of staircase fractures in microbialites and travertines, enhancing permeability by connecting highly porous zones. This understanding is valuable for locating water supplies and exploring oil, gas, and geothermal resources.

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.

In infants, pain from vaccinations shows up in brain activity

A new study found that infants show specific brain activity patterns when receiving vaccinations, which may help develop improved vaccination techniques and pain-relieving treatments. The researchers used EEG measurements to identify these patterns, which appeared earlier in younger infants and were more consistent in older children.

Girls lead boys in academic achievement globally

According to an international study, girls lead boys in educational achievement globally, especially in reading, mathematics, and science literacy. In 70% of countries studied, girls outperformed boys, with only a few exceptions where high-achieving boys surpassed high-achieving girls.

Sounds of silence

A recent study by OIST researchers used chemogenetic inhibition to suppress neuronal activity in zebra finches, showing that the arcopallium region controls song composition but not order or timing. This precise technique provides a detailed understanding of how unique neurons coordinate vocalization.

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.

Study reveals how Listeria breaches the placenta

Listeria uses distinct tactics to breach the intestine and placenta, utilizing protein phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3-K) for invasion. The study uncovers key differences in Listeria's internalin proteins and their role in PI3-K activation.

Genetic safety switches could help curb potential bioterror risks

Researchers have developed a set of genetic switches to control the function of genes in engineered organisms, preventing potential harm from theft or misuse. The switches use naturally occurring chemicals and can be customized for various products, including biofuels, food, and medicines.

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.

Visualizing interacting electrons in a molecule

Researchers at Aalto University and the University of Zurich have successfully imaged electron interactions in a single molecule. The study reveals exotic effects that were previously neglected, shedding light on device performance.

Live broadcast from inside the nerve cell

Scientists have visualized protein degradation in intact nerve cells for the first time, shedding light on how proteasomes remove defective proteins. The study reveals that only a minority of proteasomes are actively degrading proteins in quiescent cells.

Climate models disagree on why temperature 'wiggles' occur

A new study finds that climate models are inconsistent in explaining decade-to-decade temperature variability, which may lead to misinterpretation of data. The inconsistency may undermine the models' reliability for projecting future warming and suggests a bumpier road to a warmer world.

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.

Hospitals helping violence victims could save millions

Researchers at Drexel University found that hospital-based violence intervention programs can prevent violent reinjury and perpetration, reduce aggressive behaviors, and improve employment and education outcomes. These programs are estimated to save tens of thousands to $4 million in costs over five years.

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.

Programmed synthesis towards multi-substituted benzene derivatives

Chemists at Nagoya University have developed a new method to synthesize multi-substituted benzene derivatives, enabling the creation of novel functional organic materials. The study reveals the first example of controlled synthesis of benzene with different arene groups at all six positions.

CU Denver Business School study calls for audit transparency

A new study from the University of Colorado Denver Business School suggests that greater transparency is needed to help investors evaluate the quality of audits performed by multiple firms. The research found that when investors learn about audits being done by other firms, they react negatively and stock prices fall.

Cell imaging gets colorful

Researchers have developed a new method for detecting and imaging protein-protein interactions in live cells using color changes, enabling immediate visualization of biochemical events. The FPX technique converts biochemical processes into dramatic green to red color changes.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Are medications' adverse cognitive effects reversible?

Researchers from Indiana University and Regenstrief Institute call for further research to determine if medications' adverse cognitive effects can be reversed. They also highlight the need for safer alternatives to prevent Alzheimer's disease and other dementing disorders.

Researchers gain new insights into hypothyroidism

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that a genetic polymorphism may be responsible for why standard treatments for hypothyroidism fail some patients. The researchers suggest that personalized medicine could lead to effective treatment for all patients, and identify potential targets for new therapies.

Beating the clock: UGA researchers develop new treatment for rabies

Researchers at the University of Georgia have successfully tested a new treatment on mice that cures the disease even after the virus has spread to the brain. The new vaccine rescues mice much longer after infection than what was traditionally thought possible, with 50% of treated mice saved even after physical symptoms appear.

Engineering self-assembling amyloid fibers

Scientists at UC Davis and Rice University have developed methods to manipulate natural proteins into amyloid fibrils with predictable heights. These self-assembling fibers show great toughness, withstanding boiling, digestive proteins, and ultraviolet radiation, making them suitable for tissue engineering and other applications.

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.

Stress during pregnancy can affect fetal development

A study published in The Journal of Physiology found that high stress levels in pregnant mice led to increased cortisol levels, causing mothers to eat more but reducing placental glucose transport. This can result in decreased fetal weight and long-term metabolic health implications for children.

The 'fifth taste,' umami, could be beneficial for health

Research suggests umami taste has a beneficial role in health, especially for elderly patients, who may experience reduced sensitivity due to diseases or medications. 'Kokumi' substances found in garlic and onions can enhance flavors in low-fat foods.

Patients dismissing 'trivial' symptoms could delay cancer diagnosis

A Cancer Research UK study found that people who dismiss their symptoms as trivial or worry about wasting the doctor's time may delay cancer diagnosis. The study discovered that many individuals with red-flag cancer warning symptoms felt they didn't need medical attention, fearing it would be seen as a sign of weakness.

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.

Researchers discover genetic links to size of brain structures

Researchers identified five genetic variants influencing brain structure size, particularly in regions associated with memory and movement. The study, the largest analysis of brain structure and genetics, aims to understand the causes of variation in human brain development and disease predisposition.

Scientists extend telomeres to slow cell aging

Researchers have developed a treatment that extends telomeres in human cells, which could lead to longer and healthier lives. The treatment uses modified mRNA encoding TERT, resulting in rapid lengthening of telomeres and increased cell division capacity.

Live broadcast from inside the nerve cell

Researchers have visualized protein degradation in intact nerve cells for the first time, using electron cryo-tomography to distinguish single proteasomes within the cell. The study reveals that only a minority of proteasomes are actively degrading proteins, with most remaining idle.

Small study shows beetroot juice improves exercise function of COPD patients

A small group of COPD patients who drank beetroot juice before exercise were able to extend their exercise time and had reduced blood pressures compared to those who received a placebo. The study found beneficial effects of dietary nitrite supplementation on exercise performance and blood pressure in patients with COPD.

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.

Diaper compound may expand power of microscopes

Scientists used a modified form of superabsorbent chemical to expand brain structures, enabling the use of common microscopes for high-resolution imaging. This technique, called expansion microscopy, has potential to study diseases in human brain tissue and answer various scientific questions.

The latest fashion: Graphene edges can be tailor-made

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a method to control the edge properties of graphene nanoribbons by manipulating the conditions under which they are pulled apart. This allows for the creation of semiconducting graphene with desirable electronic properties, opening up new possibilities for applications in modern electronics.

Dragnet for epilepsy genes

An international team of scientists identified sestrin-3 as a key regulator of gene networks in human epilepsy. Inhibiting sestrin-3 reduced seizures in animal models. The discovery offers promising starting points for new treatments, potentially avoiding drug resistance.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Arctic ice cap slides into the ocean

Researchers at the University of Leeds have observed a remote Arctic ice cap thinning by over 50 meters and accelerating to speeds of several kilometers per year. The findings suggest that warmer ocean temperatures may be triggering this rapid ice loss, which has significant implications for sea level rise.

Researchers make magnetic graphene

A team of physicists at UC Riverside created magnetic graphene by bringing it close to a magnetic insulator, preserving its electronic properties. This breakthrough has the potential to increase graphene's use in computers with more robust and multi-functional electronic devices.

Silver nanowires demonstrate unexpected self-healing mechanism

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that silver nanowires can partially recover from permanent deformation under cyclic loading, indicating potential for long-term durability in flexible electronics. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of cost-effective alternatives to indium tin oxide.

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.

Lucky charms: When are superstitions used most?

A study by Hamerman and Morewedge found that people rely on superstitious behavior to achieve performance goals, such as winning a game or getting good grades. However, this behavior does not affect learning goals, like mastering a musical piece.