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Science News Archive June 2015


Page 12 of 36

The secrets of secretion

A new system developed by Joanna Aizenberg's lab uses phase separation to create dynamic designer polymers with self-relubrication and regulated anti-fouling behavior. The system can adapt to its surroundings and respond to fluid consumption, enabling responsive and long-lasting material applications.

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.

Cell that replenishes heart muscle found by UT Southwestern researchers

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a cell type that generates new heart muscle cells, which can divide and replenish damaged heart tissue. The discovery uses a new cell-tracing technique that may prove useful for regenerating diseased hearts and has implications for cellular turnover in other organs.

Model could help counteract poisoning from popular painkiller

Researchers at Duke University developed a mathematical model of acetaminophen metabolism based on lab rat data, finding that glutamine may boost the body's ability to recover from overdose. The study suggests that adding glutamine alongside standard antidote N-acetylcysteine could prevent liver damage.

For black rhino, zoo diet might be too much of a good thing

A new study reveals that captive black rhinos are at high risk for inflammation and insulin resistance, conditions commonly seen in humans. The finding suggests that the animals' diets, which often consist of high-quality food, may be too rich, contributing to these health problems.

Scarlet macaws point to early complexity at chaco canyon

Researchers have found that scarlet macaw remains in Chaco Canyon date back to between 775 and 875 years, suggesting social complexity began earlier than previously thought. This discovery challenges current understanding of Pueblo Bonito's development and raises questions about the origins and trade routes of these birds.

Sudden shift in 'forcing' led to demise of Laurentide ice sheet

A new study found that the Laurentide ice sheet initially began shrinking through calving of icebergs before shifting into a regime where melting on the continent took precedence, leading to its demise. The shift in 'radiative forcing' prior to 9,000 years ago kicked deglaciation into overdrive.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

What droppings can tell us

Scientists used genetic analysis of otter droppings, known as spraint, to estimate the size of the population. They found around 20 otters living in a 35-square-kilometer area, with numbers fluctuating depending on pond yields.

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.

NIH study on atrial fibrillation published in New England Journal of Medicine

Atrial fibrillation is a serious medical condition characterized by an irregular heart rate, which can lead to poor blood flow and increase the risk of strokes. The BRIDGE trial, sponsored by the NIH, found that forgoing bridging anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation who need temporary interruption of warfarin for electi...

Uplifted island

A team of geologists measured and simulated a complete seismic cycle at Isla Santa María, Chile, revealing a 10-20% permanent vertical uplift. The cycle was triggered by the 1835 earthquake, which caused an initial uplift of 2-3 meters.

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.

Silent flights: How owls could help make wind turbines and planes quieter

Researchers have developed a prototype coating for wind turbine blades that mimics the intricate structure of an owl's wing, reducing noise production by up to 30dB. The coating, made of 3D-printed plastic, has shown promising results in wind tunnel tests, potentially leading to more efficient and quieter wind turbines.

MARCO applauds fishery council move to protect deep sea corals

The Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean (MARCO) supports the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's approval of an amendment protecting deep sea corals. The areas proposed for designation encompass over 38,000 square miles and will safeguard these ecosystems' long-term health.

Highly educated women stop smoking if the cost goes up

A study published in Addictive Behaviors found that cigarette prices and pictorial labels are effective in reducing smoking rates among women. Highly educated women were more responsive to price increases, while less educated women were more influenced by pictorial labels.

Carrying a table together with a robot

Researchers aim to teach robots to understand forces during object movement and react to changes, enabling human-robot collaboration. The goal is to develop robots that can work together with humans on tasks like lifting objects, such as tables.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

First solar cell made of highly ordered molecular frameworks

Researchers at KIT have created a novel solar cell using metal-organic framework compounds, demonstrating high efficiency in producing charge carriers and mobility. The material's photophysical properties are attributed to the formation of indirect band gaps, playing a crucial role in photovoltaics.

Thick cortex could be key in Down syndrome

New brain-imaging research has found that the cortex is thicker on average in youth with Down Syndrome than in typically developing youth, despite lower overall cortical volume. This finding may provide new insights into early onset Alzheimer's disease susceptibility in individuals with Down Syndrome.

How to wipe out polio and prevent its reemergence

A new study using disease-transmission models shows that silent transmission of poliovirus could continue for more than three years with no reported cases. To ensure eradication, aggressive surveillance and vaccination campaigns must continue in endemic countries after the last reported case.

Study links heartbeat to female libido

Researchers found that women with below-average heart rate variability were more likely to experience difficulties with sexual arousal, highlighting the link between physiological and psychological factors in female sexuality. The study's findings could lead to the development of new treatments for female sexual dysfunction.

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.

NNI publishes workshop report and launches web portal on nanosensors

The National Nanotechnology Coordination Office (NNCO) has published a workshop report and launched a web portal on nanosensors, addressing challenges in sensor development and commercialization. The NSI Sensors web portal provides information on funding agencies, facilities, regulatory guidance, and standards.

Study shows global warming is unlikely to reduce winter deaths

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found no evidence that warmer winters lead to reduced winter mortality rates. Instead, other seasonal factors such as lack of exercise and respiratory infections may drive winter excess mortality.

Autism: The value of an integrated approach to diagnosis

A study combining clinical assessment, genomic analysis, and electroencephalography identified specific gene combinations in autistic patients that distinguished them from those with intellectual disabilities. This integrated approach provides new prospects for diagnosis and understanding of autism's physiological mechanisms.

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.

INFORMS journal study: Brands, patents can protect firms from bankruptcy

A new INFORMS journal study reveals that strong advertising and Research and Development can help protect firms from bankruptcy during unstable market conditions. The study found that brands are more effective at protecting firms when the market is stable, while patents are more effective in turbulent markets.

Taking control of cancer -- from your mobile phone

A consortium of healthcare professionals, game developers, and oncology educators is developing intelligent 'games' to help cancer patients manage their illness through mobile phones. The iManageCancer project aims to provide psychological benefits, greater wellbeing, quality of life, and social support for young cancer patients.

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.

PrEP is not linked to greater risk for depression

A randomized trial of daily oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in men and transgender women who have sex with men found no link between Truvada use and depression. Half of participants reported clinically significant depression, highlighting the need for further research on PrEP's impact during vulnerable times.

Patients give high marks to prepping for surgery online

A new study found that a web-based tutorial can increase patients' understanding of knee surgery and enhance their experience. Patients who completed the tutorial reported higher levels of knowledge, satisfaction, and an improved surgical experience.

Professor Andreas Peter Ruediger made an honorary Fellow of the MUAS

Professor Andreas Peter Ruediger, a leading expert in nanophotonics and nanoelectronics, has been awarded an honorary Fellowship of the Munich University of Applied Sciences (MUAS). He will collaborate with the university on a research project exploring multifunctional materials for new applications in nanotechnology.

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.

Supercomputers surprisingly link DNA crosses to cancer

Researchers at UT Austin found a surprising link between cross-shaped DNA structures and human cancer, with small cruciforms enabling mutations that increase cancer risk. High-performance computing helped identify hotspots of genetic instability in cancer genomes.

Could we one day control the path of lightning?

Researchers at INRS have successfully guided electric discharges using lasers, achieving smooth paths along straight or parabolic trajectories. The study's findings hold significant potential for various applications, including combustion engines and pollution control.

ACE pilot study takes cancer rehab to the community

The Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) pilot study explores a community-based approach to support cancer survivors in regaining their strength and energy levels. Participants receive either standard care or supervised group exercise training, showing promising results for improved physical fitness and mental well-being.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

TGen study identifies first genetic mutation associated with Aicardi syndrome

A genetic mutation in the TEAD1 gene has been identified as the first associated with Aicardi syndrome, a debilitating childhood neurological condition. The study found that children with this disorder experience severe symptoms, including seizures, retina damage, and brain abnormalities, and that boys may also be affected.

The successful ovulation of 100 eggs from 1 female mouse

Researchers developed an ultra-superovulation method to increase the number of eggs obtained from genetically modified mice, reducing the need for multiple females and improving efficiency in IVF and embryo transfers. The breakthrough could lead to a significant reduction in the number of experimental animals used in research.

NASA sees Tropical Depression Bill tracking through US

NASA's Aqua satellite captured a visible image of Tropical Depression Bill's remnants over the central United States on June 18. The storm is expected to bring significant rainfall and flash flooding to the eastern two-thirds of the US, including sections of Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Louisiana, and Texas.

Access to electricity is linked to reduced sleep

Research comparing traditional hunter-gatherer communities with and without access to electricity reveals that those with electricity sleep an average of one hour less per night than those without. The study suggests that artificial light disrupts humans' natural circadian clock and sleep-wake cycle, leading to shorter nights.

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.

BUSM researcher receives $1.6 million NIH grant for pneumonia research

A Boston University School of Medicine researcher has been awarded a four-year, $1.6 million NIH grant to investigate how immunity to pneumonia develops and protects certain individuals. The study aims to understand the role of resident memory T cells in preventing pneumonia and identify who is most likely to get the disease.

Scientists identify amino acid that stops seizures in mice

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified a potent seizure inhibitor in mice using D-leucine, an amino acid found in many foods and certain bacteria. The amino acid interrupts prolonged seizures effectively without sedative side effects, paving the way for new treatments for drug-resistant epilepsy.

Lake fire in California burns over 11,000 acres

A California lake fire has burned over 11,000 acres in the San Bernardino National Forest, with 150 structures threatened. The fire's proximity to hiking trails and high-pressure weather conditions are hindering containment efforts.

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.

How to wipe out polio and prevent its re-emergence

A new study by University of Michigan graduate research fellow Micaela Martinez-Bakker reveals that silent transmission of poliovirus could continue for more than three years with no reported cases. To ensure eradication, aggressive surveillance programs and vaccination campaigns must continue in endemic countries.

Engineer develops real-time listeria biosensor prototype

Engineers have created a prototype for real-time listeria bacterial contamination detection, aiming to detect levels as low as one bacteria in a 25-gram sample. The device utilizes nanobrushes that select and capture specific bacteria, mimicking the mechanism used by the Hawaiian bobtail squid's cilia.

Culturing the connectome

Researchers at OIST developed a method to recreate connections between neurons from two different brain areas in a dish, allowing for the study of brain function and potential treatments for neurological disorders. The breakthrough used neurons from embryos of mice and created a working corticostriatal network.

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.

Olfactory cells transplanted to treat spinal cord injury

Researchers found modest improvements in patients with spinal cord injury treated with olfactory mucosa transplants, showing 'promising and safe' results. The study demonstrated benefits in ASIA sensory scores, bladder compliance, sensation, and daily life activities.