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Science News Archive July 2015 - Page 28


Page 28 of 34

Successful model for statewide collaborative initiative to reduce avoidable hospital readmissions

A statewide collaborative initiative in South Carolina reduced avoidable hospital readmissions by improving healthcare transitions after discharge. The Preventing Avoidable Readmissions Together (PART) initiative engaged over 90% of the state's acute care hospitals, leading to a promising model for care transitions strategies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateJul 7, 2015

Extended-field IMRT does not increase duodenal toxicity risk

A study of 76 patients with cervical or endometrial cancer found that extended-field IMRT did not increase duodenal toxicity risk, even at high doses. The study confirms the safety of EF-IMRT for treating para-aortic lymph nodes.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateJul 7, 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.

A cool way to form 2-D conducting polymers using ice

Researchers at POSTECH develop a method to form PANI nanosheets on deep frozen ice, resulting in high electronic current flows and conductivity. The process is environmentally friendly, inexpensive, and can produce large areas of nanosheets in minutes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJul 7, 2015

Yes, AT&T, it pays to win back lost customers

A recent study by Georgia State University researchers found that regaining lost customers can significantly boost a company's bottom line. The study analyzed data from a US-based telecommunications company and discovered that initial trust and commitment play a crucial role in winning back customers.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJul 7, 2015

Mammography benefits overestimated

A review of randomised trials on cancer screening finds that mammographic screening may not reduce breast cancer mortality as expected. The study suggests that the benefits of mammography screening are likely to have been overestimated due to an unconventional statistical method used in earlier trials.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJul 7, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mitochondrial metagenomics: How '-omics' is saving wild bees

A new approach developed by scientists from the China National Genebank (CNGB), BGI-Shenzhen demonstrates the value of mitochondrial genome databases in detecting wild bees in UK farms. The method uses mitogenome references to analyze 'bee soup' DNA, providing a more accurate and efficient way to track population trajectories.

SourceBGI Shenzhen·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateJul 7, 2015

Engineers give invisibility cloaks a slimmer design

Scientists at the University of California - San Diego have designed a new type of cloak that is both thin and does not alter the brightness of light around a hidden object. The technology behind this cloak has more applications than invisibility, such as concentrating solar energy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProgress In Electromagnetics Research·DateJul 7, 2015

Taking the pain out of office work

Researchers at McGill University found that treadmill workstations lower neck and shoulder muscle activity, leading to less discomfort. The study suggests that minor movements and adjustments can help prevent muscle pain in office workers.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·DateJul 7, 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.

An improved age for Earth's latest magnetic field reversal using radiometric dating

A team of researchers has obtained an improved age for the Matuyama-Brunhes boundary, a geological event that occurred approximately 780,000 years ago. The team used radiometric dating and sedimentary rock samples to determine the exact age of this event, which is now confirmed as 770.2 thousand years ago.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalGeology·DateJul 7, 2015

Poverty plays complex role in entrepreneurship for Indian women

A study of over 150 poor women in southern India found that chronic constraints can spur entrepreneurial activity as long as periodic constraints are kept low. However, a barrage of periodic constraints can hinder entrepreneurial intention. Education can increase entrepreneurial self-efficacy and enable women to overcome temporary setb...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJul 7, 2015

Stress-coping strategy and mom's stress levels during pregnancy

Research finds that prenatal stress in rats can lead to faster weight loss and reduced hunger signals in offspring, resembling anorexia nervosa. Identifying a specific coping style, passive individuals from stressed mothers were more susceptible to anorexic behaviors, providing insight into potential treatment options.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 7, 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.

The ins and outs of QCD

Scientists are searching for exotic mesons that don't fit traditional patterns, which could reveal new insights into QCD. The JLab team uses the Titan Supercomputer to analyze interactions between quarks and gluons in a vacuum, aiming to predict these hypothetical particles from first principles.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review D·DateJul 7, 2015

Timber and construction, a well-matched couple

A new methodology has been developed to assess the environmental sustainability of timber structures, taking into account factors such as social responsibility and economic development. The tool evaluates various criteria and indicators to produce an Environmental Sustainability Index for these structures.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateJul 7, 2015

Discovery could improve in vitro fertilization success rates for women around the world

Researchers discovered that chromosomal abnormalities in human embryos can be predicted within the first 30 hours of development. This finding could improve IVF success rates, which have hovered around 30-35 percent worldwide. By analyzing a single cell level, they identified 12 genes that are activated prior to the first cell division.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2015

New research: Rubber expansion threatens biodiversity and livelihoods

New research suggests that rubber expansion is environmentally unsustainable, causing widespread deforestation, loss of carbon stocks, and reduction in biodiversity. Smallholder farmers' livelihoods are also at risk due to price fluctuations and narrowing income sources.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJul 7, 2015

Study: Temperature a dominant influence on bird diversity loss in Mexico

A recent study published in Science Advances found that temperature changes are the primary environmental influence on bird species distribution in Mexico. The researchers analyzed historical data and current distributions of 115 bird species to find that only temperature change had significant impacts on avifaunal turnover.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 7, 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.

Sculpting a cell's backside

Researchers discovered a new protein, Callipygian, which aids in cell migration by shutting off proteins at the front edge of cells. The protein helps create the back of a cell, allowing it to move directionally.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2015

Mother's diet affects offspring alcohol and nicotine use in lab animal study

A new study reveals that a mother's fat-rich diet during pregnancy increases her offspring's risk of combined alcohol and nicotine abuse in adolescence. The research found that rats exposed to a high-fat diet in utero were more likely to develop a greater vulnerability to excessive drug-seeking behavior.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 7, 2015

Genomics among the biggest of big data, researchers say

As genome-sequencing technologies improve, the amount of genomics data is projected to grow exponentially, requiring significant advancements in computing infrastructure. Genomics data will surpass even YouTube's storage capacity, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to handle the deluge of genomic information.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 7, 2015

Study identifies brain abnormalities in people with schizophrenia

A large-scale study has identified structural brain abnormalities in patients with schizophrenia, including smaller hippocampus and amygdala volumes and larger ventricle volumes. The findings provide new insights into the condition's development and potential treatment responses.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 7, 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.

A key role for CEP63 in brain development and fertility discovered

A joint study by IRB Barcelona researchers reveals CEP63's crucial role in brain cell division and sperm production, providing new insights into Seckel Syndrome and microcephaly. The protein's inhibition may lead to therapeutic approaches for treating these conditions.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2015

Chapman University publishes research on friendship

The study examines how US adults rely on friends for expressive, instrumental, and companionate support, with findings suggesting similar numbers of friends across genders and sexual orientations. GLB individuals have similar numbers of friends as heterosexual men and women, and close friendships are linked to overall life satisfaction.

SourceChapman University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 7, 2015

Microfabricated device allows evaluation of the efficacy, toxicity of pro-drugs

A microfabricated device has been developed to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of pro-drugs, enabling the separate culture of primary liver cells and cancer cells. The system simplifies the process by eliminating the need for pumping and tubing connections, providing a novel platform for studying drug metabolism and interactions.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateJul 7, 2015

Could black phosphorus be the next silicon?

Researchers at McGill University and Université de Montréal report that black phosphorus can help overcome the challenge of designing energy-efficient transistors. The material's two-dimensional properties allow electrons to move in only two dimensions, making it a promising candidate for future electronics.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2015

Fishing ban rescues Robben Island penguin chicks

A three-year fishery closure around Robben Island increased African penguin chick survival rates by 18%, a significant improvement for the endangered species. The study highlights the importance of small no-take zones in improving demographic parameters of mobile species like the African penguin.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 7, 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.

Cancer drug 49 times more potent than Cisplatin

Researchers have developed a new cancer drug FY26 that is 49 times more potent than Cisplatin, effectively shutting down the metabolism of cancer cells. The drug works by forcing cancer cells to use their mitochondria, which are defective in healthy cells, leading to cell death.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2015

Fewer women than men are shown online ads related to high-paying jobs

A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that significantly fewer women than men were shown online ads promising them help getting jobs paying more than $200,000. Researchers used simulated user profiles to probe the online ad ecosystem and discovered gender-based discrimination in Google ads.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings on Privacy Enhancing Technologies·DateJul 7, 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.

New technique enables magnetic patterns to be mapped in 3-D

Researchers developed a new technique using synchrotron light to map complex 3D magnetization in wound magnetic layers. This allows for improved sensitivity of magnetic field detectors, crucial for medical imaging and magnetoencephalography.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 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.

Energiewende in the Alps: Switzerland's transition away from nuclear

Switzerland seeks to replace nuclear power with a mix of renewable energy sources, including wind, photovoltaics, and hydropower. The country aims to be largely independent of fossil fuels by 2034, reducing carbon intensity through efficient production processes and substantial reductions in consumption.

SourceSAGE·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateJul 7, 2015

Imaging could improve treatment of people with COPD

A new study published in Radiology found that MRI and CT scans can help explain COPD symptoms and exercise limitations, allowing for more personalized treatment. The findings suggest that lung imaging can provide a deeper understanding of the disease and improve patient outcomes.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 7, 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.

The next anti-tuberculosis drug may already be in your local pharmacy

EPFL scientists identified lansoprazole as an excellent candidate against tuberculosis, a global pandemic, by screening thousands of approved drugs. The study found that lansoprazole kills the bacterium after being converted into a sulfur-containing metabolite, targeting a crucial enzyme for energy production.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2015

Faced with limited choices, prisoners become entrepreneurs to meet their needs

A new study reveals that prisoners at Gramercy maximum security prison have turned to entrepreneurialism to meet their basic needs, developing illicit marketing systems for services like haircutting and medical care. The research highlights the need to shift the role of prisons from punishment to reformation.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJul 7, 2015

Scientists develop free, online genetic research tool

Scientists at the University of Missouri have developed a free online genetic research tool called RNAMiner. The platform allows users to upload genomic data and analyze it through multiple steps, providing results within hours rather than days or months.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 7, 2015

Smartphones may be detrimental to learning process

A Rice University study found that smartphone users believed smartphones would improve their academic performance but ultimately reported detrimental effects on their ability to learn. The study suggests that providing access to smartphones without specific directed learning activities can be counterproductive to the learning process.

SourceRice University·JournalBritish Journal of Educational Technology·DateJul 7, 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.

Nine new research units, 1 new clinical research unit

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft will establish nine new Research Units and one Clinical Research Unit, focusing on topics like chip technology, child development, debris discs, and more. The units will receive approximately €24.5 million in total funding over the next three years.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateJul 7, 2015

As Medicaid turns 50, Hastings Center scholar examines payment reforms

A recent article by Michael K. Gusmano and Frank J. Thompson examines the success of Medicaid's Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment Initiatives (DSRIP), finding mixed evidence on its effectiveness. The authors conclude that while DSRIP has potential, its effectiveness is still unclear.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 7, 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.

Optical 'dog's nose' may hold key to breath analysis

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a non-invasive breath analysis system using an optical frequency comb, which measures molecular content in gas samples with high accuracy and speed. The system has promising potential for broad-scale health screening and could be available commercially in 3-5 years.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalOptics Express·DateJul 7, 2015

Omnidirectional free space wireless charging developed

Researchers at KAIST have developed a wireless-power transfer (WPT) technology that allows mobile devices to be charged in any direction, even when away from the power source. The system can charge multiple devices simultaneously and wirelessly, with an efficiency of up to 34%, making it ideal for emergency situations.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·DateJul 7, 2015

Customer commitment has many faces, differs globally

Researchers tested a five-dimensional commitment model, finding that affective commitment is the single largest contributor to customer loyalty. Habitual commitment also plays a significant role, with increased usage leading to developed habits and regimes that build commitment. The study provides insights into the nuanced ways custome...

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateJul 7, 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.

Price fairness: When do consumers blame the Michelin Man?

According to a new study in the Journal of Marketing, companies whose brands are represented by or associated with human figures are often perceived as unfair when raising prices. This perception is attributed to human motives rather than market forces.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJul 7, 2015

Scientists study ways to integrate biofuels and food crops on farms

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory design a multifunctional landscape that balances economic feasibility, bioenergy, and environmental health. By analyzing subareas of a cornfield, they found that planting bioenergy crops like willows or switchgrass can provide biomass feedstock while limiting nitrogen fertilizer runoff.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateJul 7, 2015