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Science News Archive June 2015


Page 33 of 36

Scientists discover a protein that silences the biological clock

Researchers found that PASD1, a protein associated with cancer cells, suppresses the circadian clock. The discovery offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the biological clock and its potential role in driving cancer growth. Understanding how PASD1 regulates the clock could lead to developing new therapies.

High-temperature superconductivity in atomically thin films

Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully fabricated an atomically thin, high-temperature superconductor film with a Tc of up to 60 K, exceeding that of bulk FeSe. This finding enables the control and tuning of Tc, opening up new avenues for investigating mechanism and developing next-gen nano-scale superconducting devices.

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.

Improving the delivery of chemotherapy with graphene

Researchers found that graphene prevents damage to chemotherapy drugs and reduces potential for catheters breaking, potentially improving treatment efficacy. Graphene's biocompatibility and low toxicity make it a promising alternative coating material.

UW researchers scaling up fusion hopes with DOE grant

University of Washington researchers are scaling up their 'Sheared Flow Stabilized Z-Pinch' device in hopes of achieving a sustainable fusion reaction. With a $5.3 million grant, they aim to create a proof-of-principle experiment that demonstrates the concept's scalability.

Trees are source for high-capacity, soft and elastic batteries

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a method to create an elastic, foam-like battery material from nanocellulose broken down from tree fibres. This material can withstand shock and stress, enabling the storage of significantly more power in less space than conventional batteries.

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.

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.

Autism struck by surprise

A new study reveals that social and sensory overstimulation is the primary driver of autistic behaviors, contradicting decades-old views of autism as a mental retardation. The research proposes that autistic brains are hyper-functional, requiring predictable and structured environments to function optimally.

Pinholes be gone!

Scientists at OIST eliminated problematic pinholes in perovskite solar cells, significantly improving their lifetime and reducing thickness. The breakthrough enables more efficient energy conversion, with improved durability and potential cost-effectiveness.

Why HIV's cloak has a long tail

Virologists discovered that a small section of the envelope protein, located on its 'tail', is required for it to be sorted into viral particles. This finding could help researchers design more effective vaccines and target HIV with antiviral drugs.

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.

The invisible key to methane hydrates

Researchers discovered that nanobubbles persist in liquid, influencing the formation and dissociation of natural gas hydrates. The findings provide insight into the mechanism of hydrate decomposition and could lead to more efficient and safe extraction of methane hydrates.

Cat got your tongue? New research says 'no'

Domestic cats have a unique perception of bitterness in food due to variations in their repertoire of bitter receptors, which differs from that of other mammals. The study found that cat taste receptors were less sensitive to certain bitter compounds compared to human receptors, explaining why cats can be picky eaters.

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.

Douglas study on cerebral astrocytes in depression and suicide

A new study by Naguib Mechawar's team found that networks of astrocytes are altered specifically in areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. The research also discovered unique properties of astrocytes in subcortical brain regions, which may contribute to depression and suicide.

'Climate-change skeptics are more ambivalent than we thought'

A new survey method reveals that Norwegians' thoughts on climate change are more complex than previously suggested, with balanced views on nature and human activities. The study found that older respondents focus on physical consequences, while younger ones emphasize future concerns.

Brain's reaction to certain words could replace passwords

Researchers at Binghamton University used brain signals to identify individuals with 94% accuracy, suggesting a new type of biometric security. Brainprints are cancellable and cannot be stolen, offering an alternative to traditional methods.

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.

Researchers simulate behavior of 'active matter'

Brown University researchers use numerical models to study the dynamics of active colloids, finding that fluid flows play a crucial role in shaping emergent macro-scale patterns. At high concentrations, particles segregate into lanes and form swirling vortices before jamming into crystals.

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.

An inexpensive rival to graphene aerogels

Researchers created a cheap alternative to graphene aerogels for electromagnetic absorption, with properties similar to graphene aerogels. The new material has low loss and wide effective bandwidth, making it suitable for various applications.

When the color we see isn't the color we remember

A Johns Hopkins University-led team discovered that people's brains tend to store colors as one of just a few basic hues, rather than specific shades. This bias affects memory accuracy, making it difficult for individuals to recall the exact color of an object.

Black athletes stereotyped negatively in media compared to white athletes

A new study by Cynthia Frisby reveals racial stereotyping in the way media portrays athletes, with more stories about black athletes focusing on criminal actions and domestic violence. The research found that more than 66% of crime stories involved black athletes, while only 22% involved white athletes.

How the tuberculosis bacterium tricks the immune system

The tuberculosis bacterium co-opts mechanisms of the immune system to its own advantage by releasing small bits of DNA into macrophages. This triggers an immune response that helps the bacteria rather than fights it. Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate this process, potentially paving the way for new treatments

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Toothbrush contamination in communal bathrooms

A study found that at least 60% of toothbrushes were contaminated with fecal coliforms, even after decontamination methods. The researchers advise better hygiene practices for students who share bathrooms to prevent the transmission of potentially pathogenic organisms.

QLEDs meet wearable devices

Researchers from IBS and Seoul National University created ultra-thin wearable QLEDs with resolutions approaching 2,500 pixels per inch. The technology enables the display of high-definition full-color displays on human skin.

Genome-editing proteins seek and find with a slide and a hop

Researchers observed genome-editing proteins using a combination of sliding and hopping to navigate the vast genome. The discovery provides insight into how these proteins can be engineered for improved efficiency and reduced off-target binding, potentially leading to more effective gene therapies.

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.

Intelligent bacteria for detecting disease

Researchers transformed bacteria into 'secret agents' that detect abnormal glucose levels in diabetic patients' urine. The bacteria are programmed using genetic transistors, allowing them to amplify and store molecular signals for months.

Infant brains develop years faster than we thought

Scientists discovered that infant brain development occurs years faster than previously thought, with face perception abilities emerging as early as four months. The study used electroencephalography to track brain activity in response to facial images, revealing a unique right-hemisphere processing of faces.

Move over Arabidopsis, there's a new model plant in town

Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a type of grass, Setaria viridis, that can fix nitrogen using bacteria, making it a potential model for studying this process in crops like corn and rice. This discovery could lead to more efficient use of fertilizer and promote sustainable agriculture.

National Psoriasis Foundation awards $600,000 in Discovery Grants

The National Psoriasis Foundation has awarded eight researchers $75,000 each to study the causes of psoriasis and develop new treatments. The grants will support research into various aspects of psoriasis, including genetic mutations, skin stem cells, and inflammatory proteins.

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.

Amount of time New Yorkers spend sitting around far exceeds healthy levels

A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that New Yorkers spend an average of over 7 hours a day sitting, greatly exceeding the recommended healthy levels. College-educated individuals, higher-income residents, and those aged 65 or older spent the most time sedentary.

Reflection in medical education can lead to less burn-out

Stritch School of Medicine's reflection-based curriculum aims to promote student self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and social justice. Students engage in regular reflections on their experiences through the Patient Centered Medicine Course and co-curricular programs.

Great Barrier Reef marine reserves combat coral disease

Researchers found that no-take marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef significantly reduced coral disease levels, four times lower inside reserves compared to outside. The study highlights the benefits of marine reserves for enhancing coral health and managing fishing-related damage.

Measuring the mass of molecules on the nano-scale

Researchers developed coupled microcantilevers that can measure mass on the order of nanograms in a liquid environment with only a 1 percent margin of error. This enables weighing individual molecules, ideal for biological processes such as DNA hybridization and protein characterization.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Eyes sealed shut: Seamless closure of surgical incisions

A new technique developed by Prof. Abraham Katzir uses a fiber-optic laser to seamlessly bond corneal tissue without causing damage or leaving stitches, offering a major breakthrough in corneal transplant procedures. The system has shown promising results in clinical trials, with wounds treated successfully and minimal scar tissue.

Hyperbaric hope for fibromyalgia sufferers

A clinical trial involving women diagnosed with fibromyalgia showed significant improvements in symptoms after undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Brain scans revealed changes in brain activity that may be responsible for the syndrome's chronic pain sensation.

Researchers from the University Bonn stimulate larynx muscles with light

A new study published in Nature Communications shows that light can be used to stimulate larynx muscles in mice, a potential breakthrough for treating laryngeal paralysis. The researchers used Channelrhodopsins, exotic molecules that open ion channels when illuminated, to create static and dynamic contractions.

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.

Creators of marshmallow test to receive 1st Golden Goose Award of 2015

Researchers Dr. Walter Mischel, Philip Peake, and Yuichi Shoda have been awarded the first Golden Goose Award for their work on the marshmallow test, which found correlations between self-control and life outcomes. Their research has led to advances in teaching self-control and improving lives.

For a good gut feeling

Researchers found that type II interferon signals cause the release of CXCL10, an attractant for cells promoting inflammation. This study provides a new impetus for treating colitis with antibodies or direct administration of type III interferons.

Astronomers discover a young solar system around a nearby star

Researchers have discovered a young planetary system with a ring-like disk of debris surrounding a Sun-like star, sharing similarities with the formation of our own early solar system. The disk is roughly the same size as our solar system's Kuiper Belt and may contain dust and icy particles.

DFG to fund 13 new Collaborative Research Centres

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft has approved 13 new Collaborative Research Centres, focusing on topics such as emotional dynamics, inflammation, and manufacturing processes. These centres will receive approximately $113 million in funding over a four-year period, starting in July 2015.

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.

Childhood trauma gets under the skin

A new study found that childhood trauma can lead to heightened inflammation across three blood biomarkers in adults. This increased inflammation may contribute to various health problems, including type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that different types of trauma have varying effects on inflammation levels.

Saving money and the environment with 3-D printing

A Northwestern University team has confirmed a new way to help the airline industry save dollars while also saving the environment. By manufacturing aircraft's metal parts with 3-D printing, airlines could save a significant amount of fuel, materials, and other resources.

Chemists weigh intact virus mixture with mass spectrometer

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University successfully separated and weighed a mixture of intact virus particles using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization MS. This technique, called heavy ion mass spectrometry, allows for the analysis of viruses that are too large to be detected by standard instruments.