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Science News Archive July 2015 - Page 33


Page 33 of 34

Why human egg cells don't age well

Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology found that as egg cells mature in older women, paired chromosomes separate prematurely, leading to early division and incorrect segregation. This results in age-related chromosomal errors, such as Down syndrome and miscarriages.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 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.

Fine tuning in the brain

Researchers developed a computer model to simulate the biological processes of neural network development in the visual cortex. The results show that newborns possess specialized nerve cells but lack systematic connections, which are refined through experience, leading to improved perception.

SourceBernstein Coordination Site (BCOS)·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 1, 2015

Producing spin-entangled electrons

Researchers have produced pairs of spin-entangled electrons, demonstrating their ability to remain entangled even when separated on a chip. This achievement could contribute to the development of futuristic quantum networks operating using quantum teleportation.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 2015

Implantable 'artificial pancreas' could help diabetes patients control their blood sugar

Researchers have created an implantable device that continuously measures blood sugar levels and automatically releases insulin as needed, eliminating the need for constant monitoring and daily injections. The artificial pancreas maintained blood glucose within target range nearly 80% of the time in computer simulations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateJul 1, 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.

Brain activity predicts promiscuity and problem drinking

A new study suggests that brain activity can predict how likely young adults are to develop problem drinking or engage in risky sexual behavior. The research found that imbalance in the function of typically complementary brain areas, such as the ventral striatum and amygdala, is associated with increased risk.

SourceDuke University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 1, 2015

The BMJ's data sharing policy now applies to all clinical trials

The BMJ has introduced a new policy requiring data sharing for all clinical trials, building on initial policies for drug and device trials. This move aims to promote transparency and reproducibility in research, as encouraged by initiatives from the US Institute of Medicine and World Health Organization.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 1, 2015

Ultra-stable JILA microscopy technique tracks tiny objects for hours

Researchers have developed a microscope instrument that can accurately measure the 3D movement of individual molecules over many hours, far beyond current limits. This technology has potential applications in biology, biochemistry, and biophysics, including tracking protein motions and characterizing nanoscale objects.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Express·DateJul 1, 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.

Baby seals that practice in pools make better divers

Grey seal pups who practice in pools have improved breathing patterns and longer breath-holding periods during their transition to sea life. Researchers believe this may be due to stimulation of facial nerves causing a drop in heart rate, helping them conserve oxygen.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 1, 2015

Wayne State to lead Detroit site in new national heart failure study

A new national study will develop guidelines for patients released from the emergency room after treatment for suspected acute heart failure symptoms. The Wayne State University School of Medicine and Detroit Receiving Hospital will serve as a site for the three-year project, funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateJul 1, 2015

Human brain may contain a map for social navigation

Researchers found a correlation between hippocampal activity and movement through abstract social space, suggesting a common mechanism for coding physical space, time, and social relationships. The study's findings may yield new insights into psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and depression.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateJul 1, 2015

Clues to inner atomic life from subtle light-emission shifts

Researchers measured variations in energy transition within cadmium atom isotopes, identifying physical cause of shift within nucleus. Two main factors influence hyperfine structure: magnetic field from electrons and nuclear electric quadrupole moment.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJul 1, 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.

Seeing is believing

Researcher Richard Born's team at Harvard Medical School has discovered key principles about how the brain makes sense of visual information. They found that individual neurons are tuned to detect specific motions and relative depth, with a direct bottom-up contribution to these signals.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateJul 1, 2015

Improved survival in adult patients with low-grade brain tumors

Researchers found improved median survival of patients with low-grade gliomas increasing from 44 months to 57 months between 1999 and 2010. The study suggests more effective chemotherapies contribute to the increased survival, despite a decrease in radiation therapy use.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 1, 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.

Study: Targeted LEDs could provide efficient lighting for plants grown in space

A Purdue University study reveals that targeting plants with red and blue LEDs offers an energy-efficient solution for growing crops in space. The research found that leaf lettuce thrived under a 95-to-5 ratio of red and blue light-emitting diodes, using about 90% less electrical power per growing area than traditional lighting.

SourcePurdue University·JournalLife Sciences in Space Research·DateJul 1, 2015

Temperature reproduces good and bad effects in mammals

Researchers found that cooler temperatures increase milk output in lactating females, while also slowing the growth of their young due to increased energy expenditure. In contrast, warmer temperatures limit milk production in mothers while benefiting the growth of their pups.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 1, 2015

We're not alone -- but the universe may be less crowded than we think

A new study led by Michigan State University suggests there may be fewer galaxies further out in the universe than previously expected. The research used simulations to examine galaxy formation in the early universe and found that the number of faint galaxies could be as low as ten times larger than initially thought.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 1, 2015

Unraveling iridescence

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have clarified the mechanism of iridescence in squid skin, revealing that specific sequences of reflectins correlate with color output. The study identifies three major types of reflectins and their roles in static and tunable iridocytes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 1, 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.

Lifelong learning is made possible by recycling of histones, study says

Research at Rockefeller University discovered that the recycling of a specific type of histone, H3.3, is essential for forming connections among neurons and facilitating learning throughout life. The study found that increased turnover of H3.3 is linked to neural activity and gene expression changes necessary for synapse formation.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 1, 2015

How cortisol reinforces traumatic memories

A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that cortisol enhances the consolidation of emotional memories, particularly in individuals with anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Cortisol levels can strengthen memories of traumatic experiences during both initial formation and reconsolidation after memory retrieval.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateJul 1, 2015

New method can make cheaper solar energy storage

EPFL scientists have developed a simple and inexpensive method to fabricate high-quality, efficient solar panels for direct solar hydrogen production. The innovative technique uses the boundary between two non-mixing liquids to produce an even dispersion of 2-D flakes, resulting in superior efficiency compared to other methods.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 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.

Subcutaneous administration of multispecific antibody improves tumor treatment

Researchers found that subcutaneous administration of multispecific antibodies improves tumor treatment by better tolerability and undiminished effectiveness. The study suggests that this method could lead to broader availability of tumor treatment for patients, potentially eliminating hospitalization.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateJul 1, 2015

Virtual training helps vets with PTSD, mentally ill nab more jobs

A new study from Northwestern University finds that virtual training for veterans with PTSD and individuals with severe mental illness significantly increases their chances of getting a job offer. The program teaches them how to ace job interviews by building rapport with the interviewer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateJul 1, 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.

Dagger-like canines of saber-toothed cats took years to grow

New research on Smilodon fatalis reveals that the saber-toothed cat's permanent upper canines didn't fully develop until about three years of age. The growth rate was double that of an African lion's teeth, at 6 millimeters per month.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 1, 2015

Extracurricular sports produce disciplined preteens

Regular extracurricular sports activities help kids develop discipline and self-regulation skills, which are linked to better classroom engagement. The study suggests that structured sports programs can be implemented in schools to improve students' behavior and academic performance.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateJul 1, 2015

Discovery of nanotubes offers new clues about cell-to-cell communication

Scientists at University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center discovered microscopic nanotubes facilitating cell-to-cell communication in stem cells. The findings suggest that these structures may play a crucial role in retaining stem cell identities during division.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJul 1, 2015

Live imaging reveals how wound healing influences cancer

Researchers found that neutrophils divert to nearby precancerous skin cells, causing rapid cell division and potentially leading to melanoma. The study suggests a physical link between wound-associated inflammation and skin cancer progression.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateJul 1, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A tale of 2 (soil) cities

A study by Sasha Kravchenko reveals that long-term differences in soil use impact pore sizes and microbial communities, providing plants with essential nutrients. The research compared two agricultural systems, finding complex pore structures and unique bacterial colonies within individual aggregates.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateJul 1, 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.

What makes fireflies glow? (video)

Fireflies produce light through a chemical reaction involving luciferin and ATP, but intermediate steps were unclear. Researchers explored enzyme luciferase, finding that a single electron transfer occurs during the final step, suggesting a unifying feature of bioluminescence.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 1, 2015

Benefits of vitamin B12 supplements for older people questioned

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that vitamin B12 supplements offer no benefits for neurological or cognitive function in older people with moderate vitamin B12 deficiency. Researchers tested 201 participants aged over 75 years who received either a vitamin B12 supplement or a placebo, and found...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 1, 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.

Clinical investigation reviews approaches and outcomes of Africa-based HIV trials

The article highlights lessons learned from monitoring complex HIV clinical trials in Africa over 15 years, including the use of on-site and central monitoring, local monitor teams, and standardized processes. The authors encourage global trial teams to publish their practical observations to improve best practices.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalClinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2015

Study of gene mutations in aplastic anemia may help optimize treament

Researchers have identified specific genetic mutations in patients with aplastic anemia that can help doctors optimize treatment. The study, which analyzed over 400 patient genomes, found that certain mutations are associated with poorer long-term outcomes and increased risk of blood cancers.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 1, 2015

Simple classroom measures may reduce the impact of ADHD

Research suggests that non-drug interventions in schools can improve outcomes for children with ADHD, such as performance in standardized tests and reduction of hyperactive behavior. However, the study found it difficult to identify what works best due to variations in strategies and measurement methods.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalHealth Technology Assessment·DateJul 1, 2015

Experimental drug combined with standard chemo may shrink ovarian cancers

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have found that combining fostamatinib with paclitaxel can reduce tumor size in ovarian cancer cells by up to 87 percent. The combination therapy may provide a new treatment option for patients with recurrent advanced ovarian cancer who have developed resistance to standard treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 1, 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.

People with epilepsy can benefit from smartphone apps to manage their condition

Researchers developed mobile applications to aid in everyday care for patients with epilepsy. These apps include seizure diaries, medication trackers, and alarm systems that detect epileptic seizures. Continuous EEG monitoring could also be made possible through special sensors integrated into smartphones.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternational Journal of Epilepsy·DateJul 1, 2015

Humans evolved to be taller and faster-thinking, study suggests

A study of populations worldwide suggests that genetic diversity is linked to increased height and better cognitive skills, as well as higher levels of education. However, this diversity has no effect on factors like high blood pressure or cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateJul 1, 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.

New insights into how the brain forms memories

Researchers recorded individual neuron activity in patients to understand episodic memory creation. They found that neurons signal new contextual associations between people and places with dramatic changes after a single trial.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJul 1, 2015

ASHG honors R. Rodney Howell with Advocacy Award

The American Society of Human Genetics has honored Dr. R. Rodney Howell with the first-ever Advocacy Award for his dedication to leveraging biomedical advances to improve public health. He received the award at ASHG's 65th Annual Meeting in Baltimore.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 1, 2015

Creating a stopwatch for volcanic eruptions

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method to predict when Yellowstone volcano might erupt again. By analyzing the chemical composition of magma crystals, they found that eruptions can occur within 10 months or 10 years after new magma enters the base of the volcano.

SourceArizona State University·JournalGeology·DateJul 1, 2015