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Science News Archive January 2015 - Page 5


Page 5 of 28
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Mayo Clinic receives $5.75 million gift for Lewy body dementia research

The Mayo Clinic has established a new program dedicated to finding answers and treatments for Lewy body dementia, a deadly disease causing progressive decline in mental and physical abilities. The program builds on previous research discoveries, including a genetic risk factor and severe sleep disorder linked to the disease.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateJan 28, 2015

Bike-to-work events offer chance to explore barriers to cycling

A study led by the University of Colorado Denver found that cities using bike-to-work days can capture a wide range of bicyclists and gather insights into barriers to increasing their commuting. The study suggests that cities should use these events to understand participants' motivations and identify obstacles, such as safety concerns...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Urban Planning and Development·DateJan 28, 2015

Communication is key to emergency department success, new study says

A new study at St. Michael's Hospital emphasizes the importance of strong teamwork and communication skills for clinicians in emergency departments. Strategies include introducing staff, speaking with nurses before assessment, sharing learning opportunities, and being clear and concise in communication.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalEmergency Medicine Australasia·DateJan 28, 2015

Good results with surgery for gynecomastia in bodybuilders

A report in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that breast reduction surgery achieves good aesthetic outcomes in bodybuilders with gynecomastia. Most patients are extremely satisfied with their surgical results and have no recurrent gynecomastia issues.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·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.

Health insurers using drug coverage to discriminate

A study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that some health insurers are using drug coverage decisions to discourage people with HIV from selecting their plans, resulting in higher costs for those enrolled in these plans. This practice could undermine a central feature of the Affordable Care Act.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 28, 2015

Researchers produce two bio-fuels from a single algae

Scientists have discovered a way to produce both biodiesel and jet fuel from a single type of algae, utilizing its unique fatty acid compounds. The breakthrough could hold potential for commercialization, but further research is needed to scale up production.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateJan 28, 2015

Stanford scientists use ocean waves to monitor offshore oil and gas fields

Researchers have created a new method to observe subsurface structures using ambient ocean waves, offering real-time monitoring of offshore oil and gas fields with less disruption to marine life. This technique reduces costs and environmental concerns associated with traditional seismic surveys.

SourceStanford University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 28, 2015

New research recommends treating elevated blood pressure during pregnancy

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treating elevated blood pressure during pregnancy reduces the risk of stroke without increasing risks for babies. Normalizing blood pressure levels is recommended for pregnant women to minimize harm.

SourceChild & Family Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 28, 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.

Missing link in metal physics explains Earth's magnetic field

Scientists from Carnegie Institution have made a groundbreaking discovery that resolves the long-standing debate on how metals become less conductive when heated. Their work reveals that the missing piece of the traditional theory explaining this phenomenon was needed to complete the puzzle for generating Earth's magnetic field.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2015

Gully patterns document Martian climate cycles

Researchers from Brown University found new evidence of glacier-like ice deposits advancing and retreating multiple times in Mars' midlatitudes, suggesting recent climate cycles. The study suggests that the planet's wobbly rotation around its axis may have driven these ice ages.

SourceBrown University·JournalIcarus·DateJan 28, 2015

Blind beetles show extraordinary signs of sight

Researchers discovered that blind predatory water beetles express opsin genes, which are usually found in species with eyes. This finding supports non-adaptive evolutionary theory and suggests that these beetles may have evolved through neutral mutations.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 27, 2015

Kepler astronomers discover ancient star with 5 Earth-size planets

Astronomers have discovered a star that is 11.2 billion years old and has at least five Earth-size planets, revealing that planetary formation occurred throughout the universe's history. The system, Kepler-444, consists of five planets with sizes between Mercury and Venus, orbiting a smaller star than our sun.

SourceIowa State University·DateJan 27, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Analysis rejects linkage between testosterone therapy and cardiovascular risk

A comprehensive review of literature reveals a strong relationship between higher testosterone levels and reduced cardiovascular disease and risk factors. Despite four flawed studies sparking concerns, dozens of studies demonstrate benefits of testosterone therapy in reducing mortality, improving cardiovascular health, and alleviating ...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJan 27, 2015

2015 AAAS/Subaru SB&F prizes honor science books that encourage exploration

Four groundbreaking science books that present scientific information in innovative ways to young audiences have earned the 2015 AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize. The winning books include 'Tiny Creatures: The World of Microbes' and 'Mission: Mars', which invite readers to explore their own world or prepare themselves to explore other worlds.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateJan 27, 2015

Canada, partners invest US$1.6 million to improve mental health in Africa

Grand Challenges Canada funds BasicNeeds' award-winning model for mental health treatment in resource-poor countries, enabling access to care for nearly 75% of the world's people with mental illness. The model generates sustainable impact, enabling 86% of people with mental health problems to access treatment and report reduced symptoms.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·DateJan 27, 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.

Researchers advance the science behind treating patients with corneal blindness

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have developed a novel method to generate transplantable corneal stem cells, which may benefit patients with life-altering forms of blindness. The study shows that these cells can differentiate into corneal cells in the laboratory, offering a promising treatment option.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 27, 2015

Things smell good for a reason

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology discovered that fruit flies can detect antioxidants using olfactory cues, increasing feeding behavior and triggering oviposition. This form of detection is not unique to insects, as humans also perceive pleasant odors from healthy nutrients.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 27, 2015

Sam Houston State studies civilians in policing

The study found that civilians offer numerous benefits to police departments, including cost savings, specialized skills, and improved community relations. However, it also raises concerns about job security, officer discretion, and operational disruption.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJan 27, 2015

New pathway to valleytronics

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have discovered a new pathway to valleytronics by selectively controlling photoexcited electrons/hole pairs in different energy valleys. This technique, based on the use of circularly polarized femtosecond light pulses, enables ultrafast manipulation of valley excitons for quantum information applications.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 27, 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.

Women diagnosed with PCOS twice as likely to be hospitalized

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are twice as likely to be hospitalized for reasons unrelated to reproductive health or injury. The study, which examined health records of over 2,500 women with PCOS, also foun...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 27, 2015

NASA spots heavy rainfall in Tropical Cyclone Diamondra

Tropical Cyclone Diamondra formed on January 26 and strengthened to 45 knots by January 27, with heavy rainfall detected east of its center. The storm is expected to strengthen further before weakening in cooler waters and encountering strong vertical wind shear.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 27, 2015

Brain region vulnerable to aging is larger in those with longevity gene variant

Researchers found that individuals carrying a single copy of the KLOTHO allele, associated with better cognition and longevity, have larger volumes in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. This brain region is vulnerable to atrophy as people age, impacting planning and decision-making abilities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateJan 27, 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.

Urban sprawl promotes worm exchange across species

Researchers identified 32% of parasites found in rats also infecting humans, highlighting the importance of habitat overlap and species relationships. The study developed a new modeling approach to forecast parasitic infections and disease emergence globally.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateJan 27, 2015

Neuroscience researchers believe in quitting smoking gradually

Researchers found that brain activity increases with smoking, but quickly adapts after quitting. Stopping smoking abruptly can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, which may deter former smokers from continuing their quit journey.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateJan 27, 2015

Supercomputing the evolution of a model flower

Researchers used iPlant, Stampede and Lonestar supercomputers to identify genes sensitive to cold and drought in the flowering mustard weed Arabidopsis thaliana. This helps understand plant adaptation to climate change and can be applied to improve crops.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateJan 27, 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.

Man trumps dog: Earlier assumption about BPA exposure confirmed

A new human study confirms that oral BPA exposure does not lead to high levels in the blood, contradicting earlier assumptions made by a dog study. The study found that the body inactivates most BPA molecules and eliminates them within 24 hours, with no evidence of accumulation.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalToxicology and Applied Pharmacology·DateJan 27, 2015

Age concern in largest ever study of heroin user deaths

A study of 198,247 opioid users in England found that they were six times more likely to die prematurely than the general population. The risk of death increased with age, with older users facing a staggering increase in homicide rates.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJan 27, 2015

Drug combo suppresses growth of late-stage prostate cancer tumors

A Purdue University study found that a combination of low doses of metformin and gene inhibitor BI2536 can successfully halt the growth of late-stage prostate cancer tumors, potentially prolonging patients' lives. The treatment promotes self-destruction of cancer cells and prevents androgen synthesis.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 27, 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.

Lung cancer clues found in downstream pathway

Researchers found that a protein called FADD picks up a phosphate for a specific amino acid when KRAS is active, and that blocking this process can prevent tumors from forming. A CK1-alpha inhibitor is currently being developed as a potential treatment for lung cancer caused by KRAS mutations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Signaling·DateJan 27, 2015

Psychopathic violent offenders' brains can't understand punishment

Research reveals that psychopathic violent offenders have abnormalities in brain regions related to learning from punishment, leading them to prioritize rewards over consequences. The findings suggest that punishment may not be an effective deterrent for these individuals, highlighting the need for alternative interventions.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateJan 27, 2015

'Healthy' fat tissue could be key to reversing type 2 diabetes

Researchers discovered that specialised immune cells called regulatory T cells played a key role in controlling inflammation in fat tissue and maintaining insulin sensitivity. Treating fat tissues with IL-33 restored normal Treg cell levels, reducing inflammation and decreasing blood glucose levels.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 27, 2015

Respiratory chain: Protein complex structure revealed

Biochemists elucidate protein complex structure in the respiratory chain, a crucial process for cellular energy production. The study reveals how complex I switches between active and inactive forms, shedding light on its role in disease, including Parkinson's and myocardial infarction.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScience·DateJan 27, 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.

What do medical journalists think about cancer research?

A survey of 364 medical journalists found that direct contact with physicians is the most reliable source of information for creating accurate cancer news. Medical journalists also rely on social media and personal connections to support their research, highlighting the need for responsible healthcare reporting.

Sourceecancermedicalscience·Journalecancermedicalscience·DateJan 27, 2015

Crude conspiracy theories could be right

A new study has found that oil interests are a primary motivator for third-party countries to intervene in civil wars, challenging common conspiracy theory explanations. The research analyzed data from over 69 countries and revealed that countries with significant oil reserves were more likely to be targeted by foreign intervention.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Conflict Resolution·DateJan 27, 2015

Fish catch break on world stage at global conference

The Global Conference on Inland Fisheries emphasizes the significant role of freshwater fish in global development, food security, and ecosystem health. Experts urge policymakers to prioritize inland fisheries, which provide vital protein, micronutrients, and economic benefits for millions worldwide.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJan 27, 2015

Lawrence Livermore research finds early Mesoamericans affected by climate change

Researchers found evidence of regional drought between 500 and 1150 AD in Mexico, contributing to the abandonment of Cantona, a large fortified city with a population of 90,000 inhabitants. The study suggests that climate change played a role in the site's history, highlighting the interplay of environmental and political factors.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 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.

Funding for pulmonary rehabilitation study in East Africa

A pulmonary rehabilitation programme will be assessed and implemented in Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia to improve treatment and quality of life for patients with chronic lung disease. The study aims to reduce the burden on local communities and economies by developing an effective and inclusive programme.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·DateJan 27, 2015

Decisions on future childbearing in women diagnosed with a meningioma

A survey of female meningioma survivors aged 25-44 found they were more likely to want and intend to have a child than the general population, driven by concerns over recurrent meningioma and treatment needs. Physicians' advice on risk factors also influenced their decisions.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateJan 27, 2015

New mechanism unlocked for evolution of green fluorescent protein

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered a novel mechanism driving the evolution of green-to-red photoconvertible phenotype in green fluorescent proteins. The study reveals that hinge migration, driven by long-range dynamic motions, can lead to the acquisition of red fluorescence.

SourceArizona State University·JournalStructure·DateJan 27, 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.

Spider electro-combs its sticky nano-filaments

Researchers studied the 'garden centre spider' to understand how it spins ultra-fine filaments. The spider uses electrically charged threads to create 'catching wool', which is made of thousands of nano-scale filaments that are combed out and charged.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalBiology Letters·DateJan 27, 2015

Sugary drinks linked to earlier onset of menstrual periods

A new study found that frequent consumption of sugary drinks is associated with an earlier onset of menstruation in girls. The researchers followed 5583 girls aged 9-14 years and found that those who drank more than 1.5 servings of sugary drinks per day had their first period 2.7 months earlier.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJan 27, 2015

Web surfing to weigh up bariatric surgery options

A study of 212 bariatric surgery candidates found that 77.8% used the Internet to seek information about surgical procedures and patient experiences, while 92.6% trusted online advice before making a decision.

SourceSpringer·JournalObesity Surgery·DateJan 27, 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.