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Science News Archive June 2015


Page 10 of 36

Brain scans of passengers who experienced nightmare flight

A group of eight passengers who experienced a terrifying plane scare in 2001 had their brains scanned while recalling the event to study trauma memories. The study found that the passengers showed a remarkably similar pattern of heightened brain activity when recalling both the Air Transat incident and the 9/11 terrorist attacks, sugge...

Justice system chips away at women's rights

A new study finds that arrest rates for women have surged, while domestic abuse laws have led to more women being charged for defending themselves. The authors argue that the justice system is 'chipping away' at women's rights and need to be treated seriously.

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.

Sweeping lasers snap together nanoscale geometric grids

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory developed a new technique to create multi-layered, self-assembled grids with fully customizable shapes and compositions. The result enables the production of high-tech coatings, improved solar cells, and touchscreen electronics.

National identity: Does buying local mean shunning global?

A new study suggests that positive feelings for one's own country play a stronger role in consumer behavior than negative feelings toward other countries. The findings contradict the idea that 'buying local' means shunning global products.

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.

Early detection of highly pathogenic influenza viruses

A multidisciplinary research team has developed a tool to predict the pandemic risk of avian influenza viruses, including H5N1-type viruses. The tool uses a combination of computational techniques and experimental molecular virology methods to identify candidate pandemic influenza viruses.

Stem cell injections improve diabetic neuropathy in animal models

Diabetic neuropathy, a condition affecting up to 60% of diabetes patients, can be reversed by stem cell injections that promote angiogenesis and nerve re-myelination. Researchers have identified new mechanisms by which mesenchymal stem cells can improve the condition.

Daughter sees Taylor Swift poster, begs mom to buy her a nearby pencil box

A recent study published in the Journal of Marketing Research found that marketing emotions can significantly impact consumer spending on school supplies and shoe brands. The research revealed that exposure to positive or negative celebrity posters led to increased or decreased spending, respectively, on unrelated products.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Medication may stop drug and alcohol addiction

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin used an FDA-approved antihypertensive drug to erase memories associated with cocaine and alcohol addiction in rats. The treatment reversed rewired brain circuits involved in reward learning, suggesting a potential breakthrough in preventing relapses.

Proximity to bike-sharing stations augments property values

A study by McGill University researchers found that homes near BIXI bike-sharing stations in central Montreal saw an average increase of 2.7% in sales price, with each station valued at $700 more in property value. The study suggests that other cities with similar systems may also experience similar effects on housing prices.

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.

Not drunk driving is often against the lore: QUT study

A QUT study found that Indigenous drivers in regional and remote communities often drink drive to meet cultural obligations, rather than disregard for criminal law. The study's findings highlight the need for community-focused approach to address this serious public health issue.

In Beijing, does a desire for status mean Chevrolets over Senovas?

A new study by American Marketing Association researchers reveals Chevrolet outperforms local brand Senova in Beijing sales, driven by cultural factors and the desire for prestige. The study found that global brands like Chevrolet have a significant market share advantage over single-country brands.

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.

3-5 cups of coffee per day may reduce CVD mortality risk by up to 21 percent

Research highlights the potential role of moderate coffee consumption in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality risk. Key findings include an estimated 21% reduction in CVD mortality risk at a daily intake of 3-5 cups, as well as associations with lower type 2 diabetes risk and improved lifestyle habits.

Dual internal clocks keep plant defenses on schedule

A Duke University study shows that two biological clocks work together to help plants deal with fungal infections, while maintaining an already-packed daily schedule of activities. The researchers identified a gene called NPR1 that links the two clocks, allowing them to work together and optimize plant defenses.

Study finds most women with lupus can have good pregnancy outcomes

A study by Hospital for Special Surgery found that most women with lupus can expect a good pregnancy outcome, but those with specific risk factors such as antiphospholipid antibodies are at higher risk. The study identified clinical features and early detection of certain antibodies to predict serious pregnancy complications.

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.

New technique for 'seeing' ions at work in a supercapacitor

Scientists have developed a new technique to visualize the behavior of ions in supercapacitors, revealing that different processes occur at work in the two electrodes. The research uses nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and tiny weighing scales to measure changes in mass as ions interact with the surface.

More women are reaching 100 but centenarian men are healthier

Research conducted by King's College London found a 50% increase in females reaching age 100 between 1990 and 2013, with women four times more likely to reach this milestone than men. Centenarian men, on the other hand, tend to be healthier, experiencing fewer chronic illnesses and disabilities compared to their female counterparts.

Researchers successfully target 'Achilles' heel' of MERS virus

A team of researchers from Purdue University has identified molecules that inhibit the MERS virus's essential 3C-like protease enzyme. The discovery could lead to better treatments for those infected with MERS. The unique properties of this enzyme make it an attractive target for potential treatments.

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.

Study shows importance of cause of kidney failure when planning future treatment

Researchers found that mortality rates vary significantly according to kidney disease subtype, suggesting that treatment plans should be tailored towards disease-specific risks. The study analyzed data from 84,301 patients and showed significant differences in survival rates among those with different subtypes of glomerulonephritis.

Cockroach-inspired robot uses body streamlining to negotiate obstacles

Researchers developed a robot that mimics a cockroach's rounded shell to reduce drag and increase mobility through dense obstacle courses. The robot successfully navigates complex terrain without additional sensors or motor changes, showcasing the potential of 'terradynamic' streamlining.

No 'heckler's veto' in online ratings of doctors, UMD study shows

A new University of Maryland study has found that online crowdsourced ratings of doctors are representative of a broad spectrum of the patient population, contrary to concerns about 'heckler's veto'. The study suggests that patients who leave poor reviews tend to have less access to the internet or be less familiar with online reviews.

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.

Superslippery islands (but then they get stuck)

Researchers investigated nano-islands on a copper surface, finding that as islands grow, they transition from superlubricity to high friction; this phenomenon could lead to innovative nanobearing applications.

MAVEN results find Mars behaving like a rock star

The MAVEN mission has discovered that Mars' atmosphere is losing gas to space due to solar wind and electric forces, creating a polar plume of escaping particles. The spacecraft also detected a long-lived layer of metal ions in the upper atmosphere, and witnessed aurora displays caused by solar activity.

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.

Study takes close look at formidable camel spider jaws

Researchers created a visual atlas and dictionary of terms for camel spider jaws, revealing a single evolutionary origin of the flagellum. The flagellum plays a crucial role in reproduction and is found on the jaws of adult males in most species.

New formula expected to spur advances in clean energy generation

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new formula to calculate the maximum efficiency of thermoelectric materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in clean energy generation. The formula takes into account temperature-dependent properties and can determine whether devices are efficient enough to be worth pursuing.

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.

If you demonstrate that 'black lives matter,' others will too

Observing white Americans engage in small nonverbal acts like smiling and making eye contact increases positive attitudes towards Black Americans. This study found that positive micro-nonverbal behaviors can be contagious, reducing racial bias and stereotypes.

Smart insulin patch could replace painful injections for diabetes

Researchers have created a smart insulin patch that can detect increases in blood sugar levels and secrete doses of insulin, potentially replacing painful injections for diabetes. The patch uses microneedles to administer insulin, which is released when blood glucose levels get too high.

The parrot talks: complex pueblo society older than previously thought

Researchers have pushed back the time period of sophisticated Pueblo culture by at least 150 years, suggesting a more complex society with relationships to Mesoamerican cultures. The discovery of scarlet macaw remains in ancient settlements has provided early evidence of social hierarchy and trade networks.

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.

Canadian physics accelerator gets multimillion-dollar boost

Perimeter Institute has secured over $4 million in funding for fundamental research, training, and outreach through strategic partnerships. The investments will support renowned physicists and early-career researchers, fueling innovation and advancements in theoretical physics.

Turning up the volume on prostate cancer

RIT professor Hans Schmitthenner is designing molecular imaging compounds that selectively target prostate cancer cells, using contrast dyes for improved detection. The preclinical phase project aims to enhance image-directed biopsies, potentially reducing pain and side effects.

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.

Millions of smokers may have undiagnosed lung disease

A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that more than half of long-term smokers and ex-smokers who pass lung-function tests have respiratory-related impairments. The researchers evaluated 8,872 people aged 45 to 80 who had smoked at least a pack of cigarettes a day for 10 years.

Studies find early European had recent Neanderthal ancestor

A 40,000-year-old jawbone discovered in Europe has revealed that modern humans interbred with Neanderthals after their arrival in the continent. The study, led by HHMI investigator David Reich, found that six to nine percent of the individual's genome is from Neanderthals, indicating a recent ancestry.

With 300 kilometers per second to new electronics

Scientists have discovered a new material that exhibits extremely large magnetoresistance due to its superfast electrons. The material, niobium phosphide, has the potential to revolutionize the design of electronic components, enabling faster processing and storage of data.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

In social networks, group boundaries promote the spread of ideas, Penn study finds

A new Penn study shows that preserving social network boundaries can facilitate the spread of complex ideas, contradicting previous theories. By analyzing computational models and correlations between individual characteristics, researchers found that stronger group ties allow for more effective knowledge sharing across organizations.

Washington wildfire in California

A lightning strike sparked the Washington Fire near California Highways 4 and 89, fueled by strong erratic winds and severe drought conditions. The fire has grown to 8,000 acres since initial firefighting efforts began on June 19.

Stress in pet cats -- how it manifests and how to manage it

A recent review highlights the impact of stress on cat behavior and welfare, including changes in exploratory behavior, social grooming, and urine marking. Strategies to prevent or reduce stress include a three-phase reintroduction protocol, environmental enrichment, and breeding strategies that promote well-balanced temperament.

Drinking a lot of beer increases exposure to mycotoxins

Researchers from the University of Valencia analysed 154 brands of beer and found that heavy drinkers consume toxic substances exceeding safety limits. The study reveals low exposure for average consumers, but highlights concerns among those who drink large quantities of beer daily.

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.