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Science News Archive January 2015 - Page 4


Page 4 of 28

Long-necked 'dragon' discovered in China

A new species of long-necked dinosaur, Qijianglong, has been discovered in China with a remarkably lightweight neck and surprisingly stiff joints. The findings suggest that long-necked dinosaurs diversified uniquely in Asia during Jurassic times.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateJan 28, 2015

Nanoscale mirrored cavities amplify, connect quantum memories

The team constructed tiny mirrors to trap light around impurity atoms in diamond crystals, increasing the efficiency of photon transmission. They demonstrated a spin-coherence time of over 200 microseconds, essential for quantum computing systems and long-range cryptographic networks.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2015

Does getting an 'expensive' drug affect how much patient benefits?

A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that patients with Parkinson's disease experience improved motor skills when receiving an 'expensive' drug, even if it's just a placebo. The study suggests that harnessing the placebo response could enhance treatment benefits and reduce dosage needs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 28, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

To reassure electric car buyers, combine battery leasing with better charging: INFORMS study

A new INFORMS study suggests that combining battery leasing with improved charging technology can alleviate range and resale anxieties, increasing electric vehicle adoption. The study finds that these combined models yield higher benefits than traditional ownership models, particularly in terms of emission savings and consumer surplus.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateJan 28, 2015

Chimps with higher-ranking moms do better in fights

A study of 12 years of observations of chimpanzee playground fights found that chimps with higher-ranking moms are more likely to win. However, the mothers did not intervene in most cases, letting their offspring fight their battles for themselves.

SourceDuke University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJan 28, 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.

Refineries challenge EPA plan to cut emissions

The EPA proposes stricter rules for refineries to reduce emissions, but industry groups dispute the environmental benefits, citing high costs. The EPA claims the revisions will improve air quality and public health in affected communities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 28, 2015

Demystifying nanocrystal solar cells

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a physical model explaining electron transport in nanocrystal solar cells, which could lead to improved efficiency. The model reveals that nanocrystal size can be controlled to optimize absorption of sunlight, enabling the creation of flexible and thin solar cells with higher performance.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2015

Flame retardants linked to preterm birth

Pregnant women exposed to high levels of flame-retardants are more likely to deliver babies early, with over 15 million preterm births occurring annually worldwide. Researchers analyzed blood samples from pregnant women and found a correlation between flame-retardant chemicals and preterm birth.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Reproductive Immunology·DateJan 28, 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.

Schoolgirl comment points to antibiotics as new cancer treatments

Researchers have discovered a way to eradicate cancer stem cells using antibiotics, opening up the possibility of a new treatment for cancer. The study found that four types of antibiotics eradicated cancer stem cells in every test, including glioblastoma and other aggressive forms of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJan 28, 2015

No direct link found between rising inequality and reduced trust

A recent University of Luxembourg study analyzed European Social Survey data and found no direct link between income inequality and general trust. Key factors influencing trust include beliefs about a society's intrinsic values and perceptions of socio-economic events.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalSocial Indicators Research·DateJan 28, 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.

Beer compound could help fend off Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases

Researchers found that xanthohumol, a compound in hops, can protect neuronal cells from oxidative damage, potentially slowing the development of brain disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The study suggests xanthohumol could be a promising candidate for fighting neurodegenerative conditions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 28, 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.

When aid brings conflict, not relief

Research by University of Illinois economist Ben Crost found that aid to villages in the Philippines increased violence. The villages that qualified for aid saw a significant increase in violence, while those that didn't participate experienced less violence. This suggests that aid can inadvertently make communities vulnerable to attacks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateJan 28, 2015

In Illinois, muskrats and minks harbor toxoplasmosis, a cat disease

A new study finds that muskrats and minks in central Illinois have high rates of toxoplasmosis, a parasite spread by cats. The researchers suspect tile drainage systems and lack of natural wetlands in the area are contributing to the disease's spread.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateJan 28, 2015

Some older cancer patients can avoid radiotherapy, study finds

A new study published in The Lancet Oncology found that older women with early-stage hormone-receptor positive breast cancers who receive hormone treatment and surgery can safely omit radiotherapy. This group of patients is at low risk of cancer recurrence, making radiotherapy unnecessary.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJan 28, 2015

Long series of droughts doomed Mexican city 1,000 years ago

A University of California, Berkeley study reveals that a 650-year period of below-average rainfall led to the abandonment of Cantona, a major city in highland Mexico. Climate change is considered one of the major causes of the collapse.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 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.

Joint international research project leads to a breakthrough in terahertz spectroscopy

A joint international research project has led to a breakthrough in terahertz spectroscopy, enabling the analysis of nanocrystals and molecules at extremely low concentrations. Researchers successfully increased technique sensitivity using nanoantennas, allowing for enhanced absorption and spectroscopic signature retrieval.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 28, 2015

To prevent new environmental disasters, China needs national conservation horizon scanning

A new study suggests that China should conduct national conservation horizon scanning to identify potential environmental problems that have not yet been noticed by society. This could help prevent large-scale environmental disasters, such as the serious haze caused by heavy air pollution in northern China and across the Yangtze River ...

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 28, 2015

Fossil skull connects continents

A fossil skull discovered in Israel's Manot Cave provides strong evidence of the first modern human migration to Europe, dating back 55,000 years. The analysis reveals a close genetic relationship between ancient Europeans and modern humans from Africa, challenging previous theories about the origins of European modern humans.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2015

Dutch babies trump US peers in laughing, smiling, cuddling

A new study found that Dutch babies laugh, smile, and cuddle more than their US counterparts. US infants were typically more active and vocal, while Dutch babies demonstrated greater expressions of happiness during routine activities and were easier to calm when upset.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Developmental Psychology·DateJan 28, 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.

Child maltreatment not a clear path to adult crime

A recent study finds that childhood maltreatment is linked to adult crime, but this effect disappears when accounting for socioeconomic status and later life factors. Protective experiences like high school graduation and marriage can significantly reduce an individual's risk of crime.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateJan 28, 2015

Dartmouth investigators conduct systematic testing of deimmunized biotherapeutic agents

The Dartmouth team created a systematic testing platform to analyze deimmunized protein design space. Their analysis revealed that experimentally measured molecular fitness mapped closely onto the computational design space for 18 deimmunized drug candidates, demonstrating potential to predict and design tradeoffs between immunogenicit...

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 28, 2015

NASA measured nor'easter's powerful winds from space

The ISS-RapidScat instrument provided forecasters with wind speed data on the hurricane-force nor'easter. The storm brought heavy snow and blizzard conditions to the Northeast region, with sustained winds reaching up to 35 meters per second (78.2 mph/126 kph).

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 28, 2015

NASA engineer advances new daytime star tracker

A NASA engineer is developing a low-cost, off-the-shelf solution to track stars during the day, enabling science operations through the day. The precision attitude sensor uses near-infrared wavelength bands and cameras with filtering capabilities to process data in real-time.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 28, 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.

Mobile apps take students into the laboratory

Researchers developed mobile applications that allow students to interact with real laboratory equipment, promoting deeper learning and engagement. The apps have been shown to be effective for students with special needs and can accommodate multiple simultaneous connections.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalIEEE Control Systems·DateJan 28, 2015

Smothered oceans

A study from the University of California, Davis reveals extreme oxygen loss in oceans around 10,000-17,000 years ago, coinciding with past global climate change. The findings suggest that modern oceans are moving into a state with no precedent in human history.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 28, 2015

Did genetic links to modern maladies provide ancient benefits?

A study discovered that genetic variations associated with psoriasis and Crohn's disease are extremely old, predating the evolution of Neanderthals. The research suggests that these genetic features may have played a role in the health and survival of our ancient ancestors.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 28, 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.

The electric eye of Cyclone Bansi

Astronauts on ISS captured stunning night image of Cyclone Bansi in January 2015, revealing brilliant lightning around its eye. The cyclone reached category 4 strength before weakening into an extra-tropical system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 28, 2015

Nordic marine scientists push for way forward

Nordic scientists emphasize the need for collaborative approach to address complex ocean changes. The region's oceans are highly sensitive to environmental shifts, with increased temperatures, acidification, and retreating sea ice posing significant challenges.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 28, 2015

New protein detonates 'invincible' bacteria from within

Researchers at Tel Aviv University identified a novel protein capable of targeting and inhibiting the activity of a protein essential to bacterial cells. This discovery may strengthen efforts to combat antibiotic-resistant infections and presents a potential breakthrough in the fight against superbugs.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2015

The 2 faces of Mars

A massive celestial object impacted Mars, generating a magma ocean that solidified into the mountainous highlands of the southern hemisphere. This event, occurring around 4-15 million years after Mars' formation, is believed to have triggered volcanic activity and changed the planet's magnetic field.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 28, 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.

Results of sun-safety mobile app featured in 2 studies, 1 editorial

A smartphone app improved some sun protection behaviors, including increased shade use and combined use of all sun protection behaviors. However, there was no significant difference in sunburns between groups. Strategies to increase mobile app usage are needed for effective deployment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJan 28, 2015

New hypertension guidelines could save lives and money

Full implementation of new guidelines could prevent 56,000 cardiovascular disease events and 13,000 deaths annually, with cost-effectiveness found in treating stage 1 hypertension for some patients. Treating women ages 35-44 with stage 1 hypertension without CVD may not be cost-effective.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 28, 2015

New cells may help treat diabetes

Scientists at the University of Iowa created human insulin-producing cells that respond to glucose and correct blood-sugar levels in diabetic mice. The findings may represent a step toward developing patient-specific cell replacement therapy for type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 28, 2015
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.

Manchester United's rising stars revolutionize heart health

A unique research project is using Manchester United's Academy players to investigate the effects of exercise on young hearts. The study aims to identify healthy limits and benefits of exercise for elite athletes, normal children, and those with congenital heart defects.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJan 28, 2015

Damaged DNA may stall patrolling molecule to initiate repair

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago found that damaged DNA can cause a molecule to slow down its patrol, giving it more time to recognize and initiate repair. The protein XPC, important for DNA repair, stalls at damaged sites due to twisted damage, allowing it to open and fix the damage.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2015

Ocean acidification changes balance of biofouling communities

A new study reveals how tiny marine organisms that attach to ships' hulls and rocks respond to ocean acidification. The research found that certain species, such as sea squirts and sponges, increase in number, while others, like hard shell worms, decline significantly.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 28, 2015

DFG to fund 4 new clinical trials

The DFG is funding four new clinical trials addressing urgent questions in patient-oriented research, including surgery for metastatic stomach cancer and individualised chemotherapy for certain breast cancers. Over 1,160 patients will participate in the trials, which will test efficacy of new procedures over a three-year period.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateJan 28, 2015

Mobile teledermoscopy for short-term monitoring of atypical moles

A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that mobile teledermoscopy is a feasible and effective method for short-term monitoring of atypical nevi, with high diagnostic concordance rates. Patients were receptive to the technology, which involves taking images of monitored lesions via a mobile dermatoscope.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJan 28, 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.

Picture this: Technology tightens the focus on who's watching women

A new analysis found that women were viewed more frequently and for longer durations - even when blended with men's photos - leading to negative impacts on self-esteem and behavior. The study used eye-tracking technology to measure gaze patterns, revealing objectification theory effects.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 28, 2015

Epigenetic drug boosts chemotherapy's efficacy in some lung cancers

A study from Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that an existing epigenetic drug can increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy for patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have BRG1 or EGFR mutations. This breakthrough suggests a new approach to precision medicine in cancer treatment.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2015

Large study catalogs genetic culprits in head and neck cancers

A comprehensive catalog of genetic mutations has been published for 279 head and neck cancers, revealing distinct genetic profiles for HPV-positive and -negative patients. This finding may lead to the development of targeted therapies and improved outcomes for these cancer types.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 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 in China and US chart latest discoveries of iron-based superconductors

Recent breakthroughs in iron-based superconductors feature the highest transition temperatures next to copper oxides, with a focus on understanding their unconventional superconductivity. The study outlines the interplay between magnetism and superconductivity, electronic properties, and crystal structures of these materials.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 28, 2015