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Science News Archive January 2015 - Page 2


Page 2 of 28

Global warming won't mean more stormy weather

A study by University of Toronto researchers found that global warming will not increase the number of storms, but rather make strong storms stronger and weaker storms weaker. The atmosphere's circulation pattern is like a heat engine that requires fuel to do work.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2015

Privacy challenges

MIT researchers report that just four pieces of information are enough to identify 90% of people in a data set. Adding coarse-grained price information reduces the number of data points needed to reach 94%. The study highlights the risks of re-identification and encourages socially beneficial uses of big data.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 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.

Which health messages work?

Research reveals that negative health messages are more effective for highly involved and detail-oriented audiences, while positive messages are better for those with uncertain outcomes. For the general public, positive messages with clear action steps are more effective.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateJan 29, 2015

'Feeding and fasting' hormone adropin can improve insulin action

A study published in Molecular Metabolism found that adropin, a hormone regulating fat and sugar metabolism during feeding and fasting cycles, can improve insulin action in obese mice. This suggests that it may work as a therapy for type 2 diabetes.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateJan 29, 2015

Identified the mechanism that controls localization of protein Rac1 in the cell nucleus

Researchers at CNIC identified the molecular mechanism regulating transport of Rac1 between nucleus and cytoplasm. Sustained presence of Rac1 in nucleus promotes nuclear deformation to facilitate cell migration through confined spaces. The study provides potential targets for future therapies.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 29, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Iceland rises as its glaciers melt from climate change

A University of Arizona-led team reports that Iceland's glaciers are melting at an accelerated rate, causing the island's crust to rise rapidly. The study uses GPS measurements to track geological activity and finds a direct connection between glacier loss and uplift.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 29, 2015

New research shows our seas are in trouble

A new study by the University of Sheffield has found that 20-25% of well-known sea species are threatened with extinction. The research highlights the need for more comprehensive assessments of marine species, which currently have been completed for only three percent of cases.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 29, 2015

Who's going to win? The answer could change by the hour

A study published in Current Biology found that athletes' performance peaks at different times of day based on their natural sleep patterns. The researchers used a novel test to characterize over 120 athletes' circadian phenotypes and discovered a significant variation in individual performance throughout the day.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 29, 2015

Survival of very premature infants is improving in France

The EPIPAGE 2 study found a significant improvement in the survival of premature infants in France, with survival rates increasing by 14% for infants born between 25-29 weeks. However, results for extremely premature infants show little progress, highlighting the need for better care and monitoring.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 29, 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.

Is this the year you join the 1 percent?

According to new research, nearly 70% of Americans will experience at least one year in the top 20% of income earners by age 60, while only 11% will spend time among the top 1%. The study also highlights persistent racial inequality and the relatively low percentage of people who stay in the top echelon for a decade.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2015

A rare glimpse at the elusive Saharan cheetah

Researchers have gathered rare photographs of the critically endangered Saharan cheetah, shedding light on its elusive behavior and habitat requirements. The study's findings suggest that these large cats are more nocturnal, wide-ranging, and occur at lower densities than other cheetahs in Africa.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 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.

Baleen whales hear through their bones

Researchers at San Diego State University used computer simulations to discover that fin whale skulls can capture low-frequency energy and direct it to the ear bones. This bone conduction method is up to 10 times more sensitive than pressure mechanisms for hearing, solving a long-standing mystery about baleen whales' acoustic properties.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2015

Steroid therapy increases risk of blood clots 5-fold in IBD patients

A new study finds that steroid therapy is associated with a nearly five-fold increase in venous thromboembolism events among IBD patients. Corticosteroid use was linked to a higher rate of venous thromboembolic events, even when combined with biologic therapies.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 29, 2015

Kidney-brain connection may help drive chronic kidney disease

A study found that high-salt intake accelerates kidney scarring in rats with chronic kidney disease by activating the brain-kidney connection called the renin-angiotensin axis. Targeting this nerve reduced salt-induced kidney scarring, providing new strategies for protecting patients' kidney health.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 29, 2015

Common pesticide may increase risk of ADHD

A commonly used pesticide may increase the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and pregnant women. According to a new Rutgers study, exposure to pyrethroid pesticides like deltamethrin can lead to dysfunctional dopamine signaling, hyperactivity, and other ADHD-like symptoms.

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 29, 2015

CNIO researchers broaden the catalogue of biological chimeras for the study of the genome

Scientists have made the largest ever catalogue of biological chimeras available to the public domain. The new database comprises over 29,000 small RNA molecules that originate from different genomic regions, which could reveal useful markers for clinical oncology practice and novel drug targets for cancer treatment.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 29, 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.

Why is a dolphin not a cat?

A study comparing genome sequences of 29 mammals reveals how evolution repurposes shared genes for unique traits. The research provides insights into the 'mammalian radiation,' a period of rapid morphological evolution that occurred after the asteroid impact that caused the dinosaurs' extinction.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJan 29, 2015

Could a new proposed particle help to detect dark matter?

Researchers at the University of Southampton have proposed a new fundamental particle that could explain why Dark Matter remains undetected. The particle interacts strongly with normal matter, making it a promising candidate for detection in space experiments.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 29, 2015

Novel eye-tracking technology detects concussions and head injury severity

Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center developed a novel eye-tracking device to diagnose concussion severity, tracking pupils for over 200 seconds while watching a music video. The study found that trauma patients with normal CT scans were slightly worse at 1-2 weeks after injury and recovered about one month later.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateJan 29, 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.

HIV testing yields diagnoses in Kenya but few seek care

A study published in The Lancet HIV reports that an HIV testing campaign in Kenya's Bunyala subcounty yielded over 1,300 new diagnoses, with only 15% of newly diagnosed individuals seeking care. Home-based counseling and testing provided a diagnosis to nearly 40% of people living with HIV who otherwise would not have sought testing.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateJan 29, 2015

First-ever view of protein structure may lead to better anxiety drugs

Scientists have discovered the crystal structure of a key protein associated with anxiety disorders, providing clues for new anti-anxiety treatments. The TSPO protein's unique structure and interactions with cholesterol could lead to improved medications with zero side effects.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2015

Can Lean Management improve hospitals?

A new study from Monash University and RMIT investigated the application of Lean Six Sigma in a hospital emergency department. The researchers found that introducing these methods can help streamline processes, improve costs, and enhance patient discharge processes.

SourceMonash University·DateJan 29, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Powerful tool promises to change the way scientists view proteins

The Aquaria project has created a powerful web resource that simplifies the process of gleaning insight from 3D protein structures. The tool offers around 46 million computer models, allowing users to view additional information such as genetic differences mapped onto 3D structures.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 29, 2015

$2.2 million grant enables IUPUI to study depression-cardiovascular disease link in HIV patients

Researchers will investigate how depression affects cardiovascular disease in HIV-infected adults and test whether antidepressants or psychotherapy can reduce the risk of heart attacks. A randomized controlled trial will also examine whether depression treatment can effectively lower cardiovascular disease risk in HIV patients.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·DateJan 29, 2015

Testing for EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements is cost-effective in NSCLC

A study found that multiplexed genetic screening for EGFR and ALK gene rearrangements followed by molecularly-guided treatment is cost-effective compared to standard chemotherapy. The approach offers better outcomes in terms of quality-adjusted life years gained and life-years, making it a valuable option for patients with NSCLC.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJan 29, 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.

Study finds texting may be more suitable than apps in treatment of mental illness

A recent study published in Personal and Ubiquitous Computing found that texting is the most popular feature used by patients with mental illness, whereas downloading apps was the least popular. The study suggests that texting may be a more suitable treatment aid due to its accessibility and familiarity among patients.

SourceClemson University·JournalPersonal and Ubiquitous Computing·DateJan 29, 2015

New study details future of oil and gas development in the Western Amazon

A new study analyzes the hydrocarbon sector and access roads in the Western Amazon, finding that 11 out of 17 major projects have access roads. The researchers recommend adopting the offshore inland development model to reduce deforestation and forest degradation. Additionally, there are 35 confirmed and/or suspected hydrocarbon discov...

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 29, 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.

Diet and nutrition essential for mental health

A new international collaboration reveals a vital relationship between diet quality and potential nutritional deficiencies and mental health. The study finds that nutrient-based prescription has the potential to assist in managing mental disorders at an individual and population level.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateJan 29, 2015

More than one-third of kids in England are overweight/obese

A 20-year study found that over one-third of children in England are overweight or obese. The prevalence of obesity among younger children appears to have stabilized, but this is not cause for complacency. The study's findings highlight the need for effective public health strategies and policies to address childhood obesity.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateJan 29, 2015

Transgender kids show consistent gender identity across measures

A recent study with 32 transgender children aged 5-12 found that their gender identity is deeply held and not a result of confusion or pretense. The study used implicit measures to gauge the strength of automatic gender associations, revealing consistent patterns across measures.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 29, 2015

Business Secretary Vince Cable announces £40 million for UK synthetic biology

The UK government has announced a £40 million investment in synthetic biology, aiming to create biological 'factories' that produce essential products like medicines and chemicals. Three new research centres will be established in Edinburgh, Manchester, and Warwick to boost national research capacity.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateJan 29, 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.

Gender roles: Men and women are not so different after all

A recent study published in American Psychologist found that men and women share over 80% of the same psychological characteristics, including risk-taking, occupational stress, and morality. While there are some differences, these findings suggest that our similarities outweigh our differences.

SourceIowa State University·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJan 29, 2015

Parkinson's gene linked to lung cancer

Researchers identified a link between a PARK2 gene mutation and familial lung cancer, implicating the mutation as a genetic susceptibility factor. The findings suggest potential targeted therapies for individuals with this mutation variant.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 29, 2015

Picking up on the smell of evolution

Scientists studied the fly species Scaptomyza flava to understand its transition from a non-plant diet to herbivory. They found that genetic and neurological processes underlying behaviors were drastically remodeled, enabling the flies to seek out healthy plants and lay eggs on them.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 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.

New clues about a brain protein with high affinity for Valium

A team of scientists has deciphered the structural details of a brain protein, TSPO, which has an almost equally strong affinity for Valium as it does for its target protein. The study reveals that TSPO breaks down a compound found in red blood cells, potentially helping regulate oxygen compounds and mitigating side effects.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2015

Scientists reveal global patterns of specialized feeding in insect herbivores

Researchers analyzed data from over 7,500 species of insect herbivores and found that most species specialize on a single type of plant, contradicting the assumption that generalist feeders are more common. This study has important implications for ecosystem management and conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2015

She thinks friends, he thinks sex

A recent study at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that both men and women tend to misinterpret each other's social signals. Women reported being misinterpreted as sexually interested approximately 3.5 times a year, while men reported being misinterpreted less often. The results suggest that these miscommunicati...

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateJan 29, 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.

Tracking fish easier, quicker, safer with new injectable device

Researchers have developed a new injectable acoustic fish tag that allows for safe and quick insertion into young fish, reducing the risk of altering their behavior. The new tag, which is about as big as two grains of rice, can release beeps every 0.4 seconds and lasts up to 120 days on a single battery.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 29, 2015

Why do zebras have stripes?

A UCLA study finds that regulating body temperature is a crucial factor in zebra striping, controlling zebras' body temperature and protecting them from diseases carried by biting flies. The research provides the first evidence of thermoregulation as the main reason for stripes and patterns.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 29, 2015

Heat waves becoming more prominent in urban areas, research reveals

A new study found that urban areas are experiencing a significant increase in heat waves, with extreme temperatures rising by over 50% per year. The trend is more pronounced at night due to the heat island effect, which traps heat in buildings and infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 29, 2015

Study analyzes Internet, mobile and video game effects on young users

A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona analyzed the use of information and communication technologies among secondary school students, revealing links between school failure and an elevated use of computers at home. The study also found correlations between intensive ICTS use and substance consumption.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAtención Primaria·DateJan 29, 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.

CAT scan of nearby supernova remnant reveals frothy interior

Harvard-Smithsonian astronomers created a new 3-D map of the interior of Cas A using a CAT scan equivalent. They found six massive cavities, or bubbles, that likely formed from radioactive nickel generated during the supernova explosion.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2015

Crucial protective role observed for farnesoid-X receptor in cholestatic liver injury

Researchers observed a crucial protective role for farnesoid-X receptor in cholestatic liver injury, with oral FXR-agonist INT-747 normalizing dysfunctional intestinal FXR-signaling and changing in intestinal permeability, inflammation, and bacterial translocation. The study suggests potential new therapeutic avenues for liver disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJan 29, 2015

Fox Chase researchers reveal how pancreatic cancer cells sidestep chemotherapy

Fox Chase researchers discovered that pancreatic cancer cells sidestep chemotherapy by hijacking the vitamin D receptor, a key mechanism driving chemotherapeutic effectiveness against pancreatic cancer. The findings raise hopes for developing new treatments that can selectively kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·JournalCell Cycle·DateJan 29, 2015

Renewable biofuel production avoids competition with food resources

Researchers demonstrate a system that produces both biofuel and animal feed from one crop, eliminating land-use competition for food resources. The process, known as solid-state fermentation, yields high ethanol content while producing quality animal feed with zero waste.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels·DateJan 29, 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.

In a role reversal, RNAs proofread themselves

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered a new quality control mechanism where RNAs proofread themselves, ensuring proteins are made correctly. The CCA-adding enzyme uses a screw-like motion to add CCA groups to tRNAs, and the RNA itself determines whether to allow further additions.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJan 29, 2015