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Science News Archive January 2015 - Page 27


Page 27 of 28

Electromagnetic waves linked to particle fallout in Earth's atmosphere, new study finds

A Dartmouth-led NASA study has found that plasma waves in the Earth's radiation belts are responsible for scattering charged particles into the atmosphere. The researchers used a combination of satellite and balloon data to test the theory and obtained quantitative results, providing new insights into space weather's impact on our planet.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 5, 2015

Skin microbes trigger specific immune responses

Researchers found that specific commensal microbes like Staphylococcus epidermidis stimulate distinct immune cell responses without causing inflammation. This discovery helps clarify the role of skin commensals and may explain skin disorder variations.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateJan 5, 2015

New concept of fuel cell for efficiency and environment

A new method enhances direct methanol fuel cell efficiency by removing toxic heavy metal ions like Cr(VI) while converting to less toxic Cr(III). This allows for improved performance and increased power density.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 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.

Humans, sparrows make sense of sounds in similar ways

Researchers found that swamp sparrows can perceive sound categories in context, a skill shared with humans. This ability may be crucial for understanding how human language arose.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2015

Study: Disparities seen in immigrant application results

A new study by MIT scholars finds that immigrants from Latin America are less likely to have their labor certification requests granted, with only 67% of applications approved. However, when the US government audits applications using detailed supporting documentation, the disparity disappears, suggesting a potential remedy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJan 5, 2015

Sensor demonstrates lack of space in living cells

Researchers developed a novel sensor that changes color depending on the confinement of space in cells, demonstrating the effects of lack of space on protein behavior. The study reveals attractive forces inside cells that override compression effects, leading to changes in protein functions under osmotic stress.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 5, 2015

Global bird conservation could be 4 times more cost-effective

A new study shows that focusing on biodiversity conservation can make current spending on threatened birds four times more effective. The research identifies the top 20 birds for safeguarding maximum biodiversity with minimum spend, including Botha's Lark, which currently receives no conservation spending.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateJan 5, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vitamin B may counter negative effect of pesticide on fertility

Women with high DDT levels and sufficient B vitamin intake had a 42% greater chance of early miscarriage than those with lower DDT levels. However, women with high DDT and low B vitamin levels took nearly twice as long to conceive.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 5, 2015

Hubble discovers that Milky Way Core drives wind at 2 million miles per hour

Astronomers witness billowing clouds of gas towering above and below the plane of our galaxy, driven by a titanic eruption in the galactic core. The Hubble Space Telescope measures velocity and composition of the mystery lobes, revealing unique information about the expanding gas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 5, 2015

12-year study confirms overall safety of measles vaccines

A 12-year study found that measles-containing vaccines have an extremely low risk of rare side effects, including neurological disorders and febrile seizures. The study monitored over 120,000 children who received the vaccines and found no increased risk of adverse outcomes.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 5, 2015

Unveiling how the children's tummy bug, rotavirus, causes infection

Researchers have advanced understanding of rotavirus's attack on human cells through carbohydrate receptors, providing clues for anti-rotaviral drugs. The discovery has implications for childhood susceptibility to rotavirus disease and offers potential for new vaccine development strategies.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 5, 2015

Epigenomics analysis reveals surprising new clues to insulin resistance

Researchers have identified two transcription factors, GR and VDR, that play a crucial role in the development of insulin resistance. Epigenomic modifications, such as changes in DNA structure, can be passed from cell to cell and between generations, and this study provides insights into how these modifications contribute to the condit...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 5, 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.

DNA origami could lead to nano 'transformers' for biomedical applications

Researchers at Ohio State University have designed DNA origami machines that can perform tasks repeatedly, using natural and synthetic DNA to mimic macroscopic machine design principles. The machines can detect signals, process information, and respond accordingly, opening the door for complex nano-robots in biomedical applications.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2015

Fertilizer placement affects nutrient leaching patterns

A new study recommends CRF placement methods that can reduce fertilizer and irrigation expenses and minimize nutrient leaching into the environment. The dibbled method has potential to produce the greatest quantity of leachable nutrients, while also conserving expensive fertilizer resources.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJan 5, 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.

For most 'healthy' obese, health declines over time

A 20-year study found that most healthy obese individuals progress to unhealthy obesity, highlighting the importance of weight management and treatment. The research also revealed a greater risk for cardiovascular disease in healthy obese adults compared to those with normal weight.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 5, 2015

Why do only some people with hereditary heart disease experience symptoms?

A new study reveals that environmental stress significantly increases the development of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in individuals with gene mutations, putting them at greater risk of developing the disease. The findings suggest that stressors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and alcohol use may trigger the onset of symptoms in car...

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology·DateJan 5, 2015
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.

NIH grants aim to decipher the language of gene regulation

The NIH has awarded over $28 million in grants to decipher gene regulation and its role in human health and disease. Researchers will study gene networks and pathways in different systems to develop new treatments for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Parkinson's.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateJan 5, 2015

Cold virus replicates better at cooler temperatures

Researchers found that the common cold virus, rhinovirus, replicates more efficiently in cooler temperatures, such as inside the nose. The study suggests that lower body temperature impairs the innate immune response to the virus, making it easier for the virus to replicate.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2015

Study reveals causes of apple skin spot

Researchers found that increasing fruit surface wetness increases severity of skin spot, a disorder characterized by patches of small brownish dots on apples' skin. The study also showed that skin spot is positively correlated with the number of rainy days during the growing season.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJan 5, 2015

UT Arlington study researches AT&T Stadium's impact on nearby businesses

A UT Arlington study found that businesses near the stadium experience success when they synchronize their activities with events. Businesses closer to the stadium saw as a negative became paralyzed, but adapting to time-adaptation strategies helped them thrive.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Management Studies·DateJan 5, 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.

Current Biology reviews the biology of fun

The journal presents studies on playfulness in dogs, dolphins, frogs, and octopuses, as well as its connection to humor, social bonding, and creativity. Researchers investigate how experiences in infancy shape a person's sense of humor and how playfulness affects adaptability and social success.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 5, 2015

Stars' spins reveal their ages

Researchers have developed a method to calculate the ages of individual stars by measuring their spin periods and masses. The technique, known as gyrochronology, uses mathematical relationships between mass, rotation rate, and age to determine stellar ages with precision.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalNature·DateJan 5, 2015

Crowd science provides major boost for certain research projects

A study finds that crowd science volunteers contribute significantly to research projects, but also highlights limitations and costs involved. The phenomenon has attracted interest from policy makers and scientific agencies.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2015

γδ T cells may play a role in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that γδ T cells contribute to systemic insulin resistance in obese mice by promoting low-grade inflammation in fat tissue. The study suggests that targeting γδ T cells may provide a new avenue for treating or preventing type 2 diabetes caused by obesity.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateJan 5, 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.

Scientists sequence genome of longest-lived mammal

The study provides novel candidate genes for future studies on longevity and cancer resistance, while revealing physiological adaptations related to size in large whales. Researchers hope to apply these findings to humans to fight age-related diseases.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 5, 2015

Cancer prevention guidelines may lower risk of obesity-linked cancers

A New York University study found that adherence to cancer prevention guidelines was associated with reduced risk of obesity-related cancers. The study highlights the importance of low alcohol consumption and a plant-based diet in reducing cancer risk, particularly for breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers.

SourceNew York University·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateJan 5, 2015

Super-Earths have long-lasting oceans

Research suggests that super-Earths can maintain oceans for at least 10 billion years due to a planet-wide recycling process. This finding implies that older super-Earths are more suitable for searching for complex life.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateJan 5, 2015

Fracking confirmed as cause of rare 'felt' earthquake in Ohio

Researchers linked hydraulic fracturing to a rare felt earthquake in Poland Township, Ohio, revealing previously unknown faults. The study suggests that a relatively small portion of the operation is responsible for seismic activity.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJan 5, 2015

Atoms queue up for quantum computer networks

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have developed a novel method to measure and control the number of atoms on an ultra-thin glass fiber, with an accuracy of just eight atoms. The technique allows researchers to capture up to 2,500 cesium atoms while minimizing loss, which is crucial for future quantum computer networks.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 5, 2015
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.

New research dishes the dirt on the demise of a civilization

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati and Boston University explored the decline of ancient civilization using modern biology techniques. They found that soil formation after abandonment led to poor preservation of historic remains, including the survival of thicker cattle bones.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJan 5, 2015

Adelaide Hills bushfire in Australia

The Adelaide Hills bushfire in Australia destroyed or damaged 26 homes as of January 5, 2015. Firefighters are concerned about worsening conditions due to forecasted temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 5, 2015

Exercise allows you to age optimally

A study by King's College London found that amateur cyclists aged 55-79 had levels of physiological function similar to younger individuals. The study revealed that exercise can buy extra years of healthy function compared to sedentary people, and cycling is particularly beneficial for maintaining health and wellbeing.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateJan 5, 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.

UMMS to develop a model for predicting gene expression in dendritic cells

Researchers aim to predict which genes are expressed in dendritic cells based on specific conditions, aiming to explain why some people survive viral infections while others don't. This knowledge could lead to new treatments for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease by understanding faulty gene regulation.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·DateJan 5, 2015

Hubble's high-definition panoramic view of the Andromeda galaxy

The Hubble Space Telescope has captured the sharpest large composite image of the Andromeda galaxy, revealing over 100 million stars in a 61,000-light-year-long stretch. This panoramic view provides unprecedented insights into the galaxy's structure and evolution.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 5, 2015

Rotating night shift work can be hazardous to your health

A study of almost 75,000 US nurses found a modest increase in all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality among those working rotating night shifts for five or more years. Lung cancer mortality was also higher among women with 15 or more years of rotating night shift work.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 5, 2015

Nitrogen in reclaimed water can benefit turfgrass

A recent study published in HortScience suggests that nitrogen from reclaimed water can support optimal turfgrass growth. The researchers found that turfgrass responded positively to higher concentrations of nitrogen in the irrigation water, but the concentration needed was at least 5 mg·L−1.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateJan 5, 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.

New instrument reveals recipe for other Earths

Astronomers have found evidence that the recipe for Earth applies to terrestrial exoplanets orbiting distant stars. The HARPS-North instrument measured the masses of small, Earth-sized worlds and found a tight relationship between mass and size, suggesting rocky compositions similar to those of Venus and Earth.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateJan 5, 2015

Human speech's surprising influence on young infants

Researchers find that listening to human speech promotes infants' cognitive, social psychological capacities and has positive developmental consequences. Infants as young as 2-3 months old benefit from tuning in to speech, leading to better understanding of patterns, recognizing partners, and establishing coherent categories.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJan 5, 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.

Study makes case for wider gene testing in bowel cancer

Researchers found that up to a quarter of patients with bowel cancer who have a family history could have their cancer caused by genetic mutations identified through gene testing. This could lead to improved diagnosis, treatment, and early detection for both the patient and their relatives.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 5, 2015

New findings show chronic high blood pressure increases risk of glaucoma

A new study finds that chronic hypertension increases a person's susceptibility to glaucoma by damaging blood vessels in the eye. This damage compromises the eye's capacity to cope with changes in blood flow, making hypertension a risk factor for the potentially blinding eye disorder.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJan 5, 2015

Men's diets are related to local offerings, unlike women's

Researchers found a positive association between fruit and vegetable intake in men and the availability of healthy outlets around their home. In contrast, no such link was found for women, suggesting they may rely on other factors when making dietary choices.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateJan 5, 2015

Green walls, effective acoustic insulation

Researchers have found that green walls are suitable for absorbing environmental noise and acting as acoustic insulation, improving life quality and reducing pollution. The study also shows that green walls can be effective in high and low frequencies, making them a potential solution for acoustic insulation.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalApplied Acoustics·DateJan 5, 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.

How vitamin C helps plants beat the sun

Researchers from RIKEN and Okayama University identified PHT4;4 as the transport protein allowing vitamin C to enter chloroplasts. This discovery could lead to crop plants with higher tolerances to environmental stress, reducing damage to farmland in regions with strong light.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 5, 2015

'Imaginary meal' tricks the body into losing weight

Researchers at Salk Institute develop a new compound called fexaramine that effectively stops weight gain, lowers cholesterol and controls blood sugar levels in mice. The pill tricks the body into thinking it has consumed calories, causing it to burn fat without altering appetite.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 5, 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.

Animal study points to a treatment for Huntington's disease

A novel treatment approach for Huntington's disease shows promise by adjusting key signaling protein levels in experimental animals. The study improves motor function, reduces brain abnormalities, and promotes metabolic health in mice bred to model the disorder.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNeuron·DateJan 5, 2015