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Science News Archive July 2015


Page 31 of 34

Novel DNA repair mechanism brings new horizons

Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University discovered a new DNA repair mechanism that can detect and fix single-stranded breaks in histone-bound DNA. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

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.

Waiting to harvest after a rain enhances food safety

New research from Cornell University suggests that farmers should wait 24 hours after a rain or irrigation to harvest crops, as this reduces the risk of exposure to the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. By doing so, farmers can minimize the presence of Listeria on fresh produce and ensure consumer safety.

'Invisible' protein structure explains the power of enzymes

A study at Umea University has successfully captured a protein structure previously impossible to study, providing insights into enzymes' catalytic capabilities. The discovery enables the development of designed enzymes for new chemical reactions in biotechnology.

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.

A 'movie' of ultrafast rotating molecules at a hundred billion per second

Scientists have successfully imaged ultrafast unidirectionally rotating molecules at 100 billion per second, revealing a quantum wave-like nature. The high-resolution imaging reveals rotational wave packets with distinct angular velocities, showcasing the transition from quantum to classical behavior.

Nobel Laureates appeal for climate protection

The Mainau Declaration 2015 on Climate Change states that nations must limit future global emissions and approve a new international agreement. The declaration warns of the consequences of unchecked climate change, which will overwhelm the Earth's ability to satisfy humanity's needs, leading to wholesale human tragedy.

Seeing the world through assistive glasses

The ADAMAAS project aims to create a mobile assistance system that identifies problems and provides situation-dependent assistance through intelligent glasses. The technology combines eye tracking, memory research, object recognition, and augmented reality to support users in daily activities.

Soundproofing with quantum physics

Researchers have successfully applied topological insulator principles to mechanical systems, creating edge states that exhibit robust, 'topologically protected' properties. These properties make them suitable for applications in sound and vibration insulation, as well as focusing sound like a lens.

Tough tail of a seahorse may provide robotic solutions

Researchers studied seahorse's unusual skeletal structure and found its square-tail design provides flexibility and strength, allowing for energy-efficient grasping mechanisms and crushing resistance. This discovery may inspire robotics applications in laparoscopic surgery, industrial systems, or search & rescue robots.

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.

HKUST researchers discover ways to regenerate corticospinal tract axons

Researchers at HKUST found a way to stimulate axon growth without external stimulants. The deletion of the PTEN gene enhances compensatory sprouting and promotes regeneration of CST axons. This breakthrough study offers new possibilities for treating chronic SCI, including delayed treatment up to 1 year after injury.

Researchers find mass killings, school shootings are contagious

A study by Arizona State University researchers found that mass killings and school shootings in the US are contagious, with a contagion period of approximately 13 days. The analysis revealed that roughly 20-30% of such tragedies are inspired by previous events, highlighting the complex dynamics underlying these incidents.

Scientists warn of species loss due to man-made landscapes

A study by the University of Exeter found a 35% decline in bird species in agricultural habitats compared to natural areas. The researchers recommend incorporating patches of natural vegetation into agricultural landscapes to maintain biodiversity.

Millions of children's lives saved through low-cost investments

A new analysis found that over 34 million children's lives have been saved since 2000 due to investments in child health programs at a cost of as little as $4,205 per child. The report, published in The Lancet, also highlights the impact of funding from donor agencies such as the US government and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Be square, seahorse; it has mechanical advantages

The seahorse tail's square shape provides better resistance to twisting and grasping control due to increased contact area. Its resilience is attributed to gliding joints, making it a valuable inspiration for designing search-and-rescue robots and other technologies.

Found: Antibody that zaps resilient dengue serotype

A team led by Associate Professor Shee-Mei Lok at Duke-NUS Medical School discovered an antibody that neutralizes dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2), making it harder to kill. The finding could help develop dengue therapeutics and is a significant step towards addressing the global dengue pandemic.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Cancer survivors who smoke perceive less risk from tobacco

A new study by the American Cancer Society found that cancer survivors who currently smoke report fewer negative opinions about smoking and have more barriers to quitting. They are also more likely to be exposed to other smokers, which may contribute to continued smoking.

Viral protein in their sights

A team from Harvard Medical School has revealed the atomic level structure of VSV polymerase protein L, a key component in RNA virus replication. This finding provides insights into how these viruses copy their genomes inside host cells.

Human antibody blocks dengue virus in mice

Researchers discovered a human antibody specific to dengue virus serotype 2 that protects mice from the virus, regardless of administration timing. The antibody may act as both a preventative and therapeutic agent by locking viral envelope proteins on the surface, preventing them from entering host cells.

To conduct, or to insulate? That is the question

Researchers discovered a single material, samarium hexaboride (SmB6), that displays dual metal-insulator properties, violating conventional wisdom. The material's behavior is attributed to the existence of a potential third phase, neither insulator nor conductor.

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.

ASHG honors Leonid Kruglyak with Curt Stern Award

Leonid Kruglyak, a renowned geneticist, received the 2015 Curt Stern Award for his pioneering work on understanding gene interactions and genome-wide association studies. His laboratory has developed powerful model organisms for studying complex genetic variation.

New technology using silver may hold key to electronics advances

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new method to fabricate silver nanoparticles for printed electronics at room temperature. This breakthrough has the potential to open up new applications in fields such as solar cells, printed circuit boards, and low-emissivity coatings.

Rumors of southern pine deaths have been exaggerated, UGA researchers say

UGA researchers analyzed growth data from thousands of pine tree plots across the Southeast and found that 'southern pine decline' isn't happening on a large scale. The study suggests standard management practices are working just fine, with environmental factors like site conditions, drought, and climate change affecting tree health.

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.

Working out in artificial gravity

Researchers at MIT have found that a combination of artificial gravity and exercise can significantly lessen the effects of extended weightlessness in space. The study involved healthy participants pedaling a stationary bicycle while spinning in a centrifuge, with results showing improved bone density and cardiovascular activity.

Aluminum clusters shut down molecular fuel factory

Researchers used atom probe tomography to create the first 3-D atomic map of an industrially relevant zeolite material, revealing clues to extending catalyst life. The study found that steaming causes aluminum atoms to cluster, shutting down the catalytic factory and affecting its efficiency.

Canadian wildfires continue

In July 2015, dozens of wildfires were reported in Canada's Northwest Territories, South Slave, Sahtu, Deh Cho, Inuvik, and Alberta regions, affecting over 270,000 hectares of land.

Gene therapy for cystic fibrosis shows encouraging trial results

A UK trial has shown significant benefits in lung function for patients with cystic fibrosis who received gene therapy. The treatment involves replacing the faulty gene responsible for the disease and was found to be safe and effective. Further research is needed to improve its effectiveness before it can be used as a clinical treatment.

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.

Researchers reveal a genetic blueprint for cartilage

A study published in Cell Reports reveals how Sox9 regulates cartilage production and its essential role in skeletal development. Researchers discovered that Sox9 binding to DNA controls gene expression, leading to the formation of chondrocytes and cartilage production.

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.

The very hungry sea anemone

Researchers at National Oceanography Centre discovered that abyssal sea anemones can consume animals weighing up to six times their own weight, taking up to 80 hours to digest. The study used time-lapse photography and technology from UK's deepest diving robot-sub to observe behaviors.

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.

Genetic variation determines response to anti-diabetic drug

A Penn study found that natural genetic differences in DNA sequence can determine how an anti-diabetic drug works, shedding light on personalized approaches to treating diabetes and related disorders. The research suggests that genetic variations can affect drug response, which could lead to more effective treatments.

Viaducts with wind turbines, the new renewable energy source

Researchers have found that wind turbines can be installed under viaducts to produce electricity, offering a new source of renewable energy. The study suggests that this concept could be applied in heavily built-up territories or natural areas with limited space for new constructions.

Romeo and Juliet roles for banded mongooses

Researchers found that 18% of wild banded mongoose pups are fathered by males from rival packs, reducing the risk of inbreeding. Female mongooses take risks to mate with rivals during pack 'warfare', while males discriminate between relatives and non-relatives.

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.

Multiplying emerald ash borer decoys made easier

Researchers have developed a cost-effective method for producing hundreds of female emerald ash borer decoys using biomimetic fabrication. The new approach, which requires only one mold, is 40% more successful than previous methods and can be produced faster and less expensively.

First comprehensive analysis of the woolly mammoth genome completed

The study identifies extensive genetic changes responsible for woolly mammoths' adaptations to arctic life, including genes linked to fat metabolism, insulin signaling, and temperature sensation. Researchers resurrected a mammoth gene involved in temperature sensation and characterized its protein product in the laboratory.

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.

Unexpected enzyme may resurrect roses' fading scents

Researchers have identified an unexpected enzyme, RhNUDX1, that plays a key role in producing rose fragrances. By investigating the genes of two rose cultivars, they found that this enzyme generates the fragrant monoterpene geraniol.

Hippo dances with hormones

Scientists found that abnormal growth in fruit fly tumors depends on ecdysone, a steroid hormone similar to estrogen. This discovery may have implications for studying cancer stem cells and proliferative mechanisms in human cancers.

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.

Miniature landscapes show how hills and valleys form

Researchers developed a laboratory device to mimic landscape formation, finding that hillslope processes play a key role in shaping valleys. The study's findings support a popular theory on landscape evolution, suggesting a scale-dependent balance between tumbling sediments and runoff processes.

The quantum middle man

Scientists have identified a way to manipulate nuclei using electrons' magnetic moments, enabling the transfer of quantum information between particles. The discovery could lead to more stable systems for quantum computing.