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Science News Archive January 2015 - Page 11


Page 11 of 28

Mammalian heart regenerative capacity depends on severity of injury

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that neonatal mouse hearts can fully recover normal function after mild injury but fail to regenerate after severe injury. The study suggests that cardiac regeneration strategies should be tailored to the type and severity of heart injury.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateJan 22, 2015

Cell's recycling team helps sound alarm on pathogens

Researchers found that autophagy, a cellular recycling process, helps eliminate a molecule called A20 that blocks the immune response. By removing A20, autophagy allows for a quick release of emergency signals, boosting anti-fungal immunity.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 22, 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.

Study shows how Ebola becomes lethal as it spreads

Researchers investigated Ebola's deadly nature, discovering that genetic changes enable the virus to become more severe with each transmission. The study sheds light on the evolutionary goal of Ebola virus to become more lethal, informing future treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 21, 2015

New bacterial language discovered

Researchers have identified a new bacterial communication pathway, dialkylresorcinol, that is widely distributed among pathogenic bacteria. This discovery offers a promising therapeutic target for new medicines, potentially reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2015

Health consciousness: Do consumers believe healthy food always tastes bad?

A recent study by Robert Mai and Stefan Hoffmann found that healthy food is often perceived as tasting bad, leading to overconsumption of unhealthy options. Despite education on ingredients, consumers prioritize taste over healthiness, making it challenging to combat obesity rates.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJan 21, 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.

Only about half of teenage girls receive HPV vaccine at the CDC's recommended age

Only about half of teenage girls receive the HPV vaccine at the recommended age of 11-12, leaving them unprotected against cervical cancer and genital warts. Researchers found that rates of HPV infection increase significantly among young people between 14-24, emphasizing the importance of early vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalVaccine·DateJan 21, 2015

Does black-and-white advertising help consumers make better decisions?

A new study finds that black-and-white images lead consumers to focus on essential product features, whereas colorful images draw attention to less important aspects. This allows companies to promote primary features with black-and-white ads and secondary features with color ads.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 21, 2015

Blended ecological knowledge systems yield insight for managing beargrass

Researchers combined traditional ecological knowledge and scientific methods to identify forest conditions preferred by beargrass harvesters. Key findings include differences in coarse woody debris, tree density, and beargrass leaf color between 'good' and 'poor' sites.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalJournal of Forestry·DateJan 21, 2015

Optimizing optimization algorithms

Researchers at MIT developed an algorithm to optimize optimization algorithms, guaranteeing the best possible solution for complex engineering problems. By using a Gaussian smoothing technique, they generate a sequence of simpler problems that progressively add complexity, ensuring convergence to a global minimum.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJan 21, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NYU researchers reveal how the mundane can be meaningful -- and remembered

In a study published in Nature, NYU researchers found that emotional learning can strengthen older memories by selectively preserving previously insignificant information. Participants were shown images of animals and tools, with some receiving shocks to make certain categories emotionally meaningful. Memory for these images was better...

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2015

Most endangered chimpanzees have complex evolutionary past, perilous future

A recent study revealed that the Nigeria-Cameroon Chimpanzee subspecies has a more complex evolutionary history than previously thought, with three distinct populations found in central Cameroon. The research also suggests that climate change could cause significant harm to chimpanzee populations due to habitat alterations.

SourceDrexel University·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJan 21, 2015

Study maps travel of H7 influenza genes

A new report reveals that H7 influenza viruses regularly shuffle combinations of genetic segments, each with its own history of travel among hosts and geographic places. The study uses genomic analysis to visualize the spread of H7 genes across vast distances, identifying transboundary and transcontinental transmission.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·JournalCladistics·DateJan 21, 2015

UNL drillers help make new Antarctic discoveries

Scientists have made new discoveries about Antarctica's geology and biology using a hot-water drill and an underwater robotic vehicle. The expedition uncovered a unique ecosystem of fish and invertebrates living in an estuary deep beneath the Antarctic ice.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalAnnals of Glaciology·DateJan 21, 2015

NASA adds up Tropical Storm Mekkhala's drenching rainfall in the Philippines

NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission combined with satellite data revealed an area of maximum rainfall centered over Samar, resulting in extreme totals greater than 600mm. The analysis also found that much of the heavy rainfall from Mekkhala fell over the same area devastated by Super Typhoon Haiyan in 2013.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 21, 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.

Nano-beaker offers insight into the condensation of atoms

Researchers successfully mapped the condensation of individual atoms in microscopic measuring beakers, known as quantum wells. This breakthrough provides key conclusions on the nature of atomic bonding and enables the study of other atoms and their interactions.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2015

Smart keyboard cleans and powers itself -- and can tell who you are

Scientists developed a smart keyboard that senses typing patterns to distinguish individual users, providing an additional layer of security for computer systems. The device harnesses energy from typing to power itself or other devices, while its surface coating repels dirt and grime.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 21, 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.

INRS acquires specialized equipment to conduct innovative research

INRS researchers will conduct innovative research in environmental equity, reproductive toxicology and infection treatment with new equipment. The lab will focus on noise and air pollution concentration, public services for vulnerable populations and prevention of male infertility.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateJan 21, 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.

Inside the big wormhole

Researchers propose that the Milky Way galaxy may contain a space-time tunnel, also known as a wormhole, which could be navigable. The study combined dark matter maps with general relativity equations to suggest this possibility.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalAnnals of Physics·DateJan 21, 2015

Oranges versus orange juice: Which one might be better for your health?

Scientists found that oranges are packed with nutrients like carotenoids and flavonoids, which can help lower cancer risk and cardiovascular disease. However, juicing oranges may slightly lower nutrient levels but significantly improve their bioaccessibility.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 21, 2015

New method to generate arbitrary optical pulses

Researchers from the University of Southampton have developed a new technique for generating more powerful and efficient pulsed lasers. The technique uses coherent combination of multiple semiconductor lasers, allowing for complex pulse waveforms with user flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalOptica·DateJan 21, 2015

Study examines NSAID use, risk of anastomotic failure following surgery

A study published in JAMA Surgery found that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use is associated with a higher risk of anastomotic leaks after nonelective colorectal procedures. The study included over 13,000 patients and showed a 24% increased risk for anastomotic leak among those who received NSAIDs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJan 21, 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.

Not so obvious: Consumers don't just assume bundled products are a better value

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research reveals that consumers may not perceive bundled products as a better value. Retailers need to highlight the benefits of package deals to attract customers. By presenting both individual and bundled options, businesses can make consumers aware of the added value and increase sales

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 21, 2015

Study's findings do not support chlorhexidine bathing in ICUs

Vanderbilt University researchers found that chlorhexidine cloths did not reduce health care-associated infections in critically ill patients compared to non-antimicrobial cloths. The study analyzed data from over 9,300 ICU patients and showed no significant difference in infection rates between the two groups.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateJan 21, 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.

Messages from space -- hidden magnetic messages uncovered

Researchers have discovered tiny magnetic particles in meteorites that retain a faithful record of the magnetic fields generated by their parent bodies. By analyzing these particles, scientists were able to reconstruct the history of magnetic activity on the meteorite parent body and capture the moment when the core finished solidifying.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2015

Researchers introduce macrosystems approach to study stream ecology

Researchers have developed a new method for studying streams in different climates and continents, introducing the Stream Biome Gradient Concept. This concept can improve how researchers understand how to regulate and conserve streams and protect water quality.

SourceKansas State University·JournalFreshwater Science·DateJan 21, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

The 5 strategies scholars use in writing medical review articles

The article discusses the five main strategies scholars use when writing review articles, highlighting their unique approaches and strengths. Dr. McGaghie emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting these traditions while embracing new approaches to research synthesis.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateJan 21, 2015

Ecocentricity: How do consumers decide what makes a product 'green'?

A new study in the Journal of Marketing suggests that consumers believe products with central rather than peripheral recycled features are greener. Central attributes with environmental benefits imbue the entire product with greenness, according to authors Andrew D. Gershoff and Judy K. Frels.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJan 21, 2015

A call for a new model to evaluate medical schools

A new study proposes a new model to evaluate medical schools' production of academic physicians with biomedical research careers. The model uses relevant and accessible objective criteria, replacing the subjective criteria used in the current USN&WR rankings system.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateJan 21, 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.

Death of a dynamo -- A hard drive from space

Researchers capture asteroid magnetic field moments, revealing extended lifetimes and creating mechanisms similar to the Earth's own magnetic field. Ancient meteorites provide a cosmic archaeological mission, shedding light on the magnetic history of asteroids and their impact on the Earth's core future.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2015

Buying cars: Do product features matter more than brands?

A new study suggests that online searches for specific car features can predict consumer purchases with greater accuracy than brand names. Researchers analyzed six years of car sales data and found that searches for features like body type and fuel economy were key indicators of future purchases.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJan 21, 2015

LSU Health New Orleans identifies toxic Ebola protein fragment

Researchers at LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine have discovered a toxic fragment of an Ebola virus protein that can change membrane permeability. The Delta peptide fragment has been shown to block the virus from attaching to already-infected cells, offering potential new insights for treatment and prevention.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalViruses·DateJan 21, 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.

Close monitoring of renal tumors may provide alternative to surgery

Close monitoring of small renal tumors can be an alternative to surgery, with low rates of tumor growth or death observed. The study's findings suggest that actively monitoring these tumors in high-risk patients may prove safer than immediate surgery.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateJan 21, 2015

Climate change threatens 30 years of sea turtle conservation success

A University of Central Florida study warns that climate change is eroding beach habitats critical to sea turtle survival, threatening a 30-year conservation success story. The study suggests that armoring beaches with hard structures could harm wildlife, including sea turtles.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalChelonian Conservation and Biology·DateJan 21, 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.

Two lakes beneath the ice in Greenland, gone within weeks

Researchers have discovered two sub-glacial lakes beneath the ice in Greenland that have rapidly drained away, filling and emptying twice in a matter of years. The sudden disappearance of these lakes raises concerns about the stability of the Greenland Ice Sheet and its potential impact on global sea levels.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2015

Self-assembled nanotextures create antireflective surface on silicon solar cells

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory developed a method to create an antireflective surface on silicon solar cells using self-assembled nanotextures inspired by the structure of moths' eyes. The resulting surface reduces reflections and improves sunlight conversion, outperforming state-of-the-art coatings by up to 20%.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2015

When the price just feels right: Do rounded numbers appeal to our emotions?

A study by Monica Wadhwa and Kuangjie Zhang found that rounded prices make consumers more likely to buy products driven by emotions, such as a family vacation camera. Non-rounded prices lead to rational purchasing decisions for utility-based purchases like school equipment.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 21, 2015

Sequestration on shaky ground

Researchers at MIT found that injected carbon dioxide only partially converts to rock, with the majority remaining in a gaseous form. This limitation poses challenges for long-term sequestration efforts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJan 21, 2015

Weight Watchers: Shed the pounds but lose your friends?

A new Weight Watchers study shows members distance themselves from others in support groups as they reach weight loss goals, highlighting the need for strategies to keep people engaged and working towards their objectives.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 21, 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.

More realistic physical activity targets needed, say experts

Research suggests that aiming for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week may be unrealistic for some adults, particularly older individuals. Increasing daily physical activity by even small amounts can lead to significant health benefits, as shown in studies of moderate to vigorous exercise.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 21, 2015

Long-term use of ventricular assist devices induces heart muscle regeneration, study finds

A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center investigators found that patients with heart failure who used left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for six months or longer showed significant regeneration of heart muscle. Oxidative damage to a cell-regulator mechanism was prevented, leading to an increase in cardiomyocyte proliferation.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 21, 2015