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Science News Archive June 2015 - Page 25


Page 25 of 36

Ice sheet collapse triggered ancient sea level peak: ANU media release

A dramatic ice sheet collapse at the end of the last ice age led to widespread climate changes and a sea level peak well above its present height. The research, published in Nature, reveals that this event was caused by the suppression of ocean circulation in the North Atlantic Ocean.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·DateJun 10, 2015

Intensive initial therapy with triple DMARDs improves functional ability in early RA

The tREACH trial found that combination DMARDs (methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and hydroxychloroquine) improve measures of disease activity and functional ability in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. This suggests an earlier decrease in disease severity and improvements in functional ability compared to monotherapy.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 10, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microbe-mediated adaptation to a novel diet

Scientists discovered that acquiring a group of bacterial symbionts enabled firebugs to feed on plant seeds, previously inaccessible to them. This adaptation led to the diversification of firebug species within a new ecological niche.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·DateJun 10, 2015

Warmer, lower-oxygen oceans will shift marine habitats

As warmer ocean temperatures speed up metabolic needs for oxygen, animals will struggle to find sufficient oxygen in lower-oxygen waters. This shift will result in marine habitats being displaced towards shallower, more oxygen-rich areas, with some species becoming oxygen-starved.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJun 10, 2015

Probing what happens to plutonium in a nuclear explosion

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory simulated a nuclear explosion using new experiments and computer modeling to analyze plutonium behavior. The results will help scientists perform forensic analyses in the case of an actual detonation, providing deeper insights into the element's properties.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 10, 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.

Many older adults going online to discuss, learn about sex

A new study found that many older adults are participating in online communities to discuss and learn about sex, swapping advice on keeping their sexuality active into old age. These online forums provide a safe space for seniors to share their thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Leisure Research·DateJun 10, 2015

Binghamton engineer creates origami battery

A Binghamton University engineer has developed an origami battery made from paper that generates power from microbial respiration. The battery is cheap and biodegradable, and can be used to run a biosensor in remote areas with limited resources.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalNano Energy·DateJun 10, 2015

Risky outdoor play positively impacts children's health: UBC study

A UBC study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that risky outdoor play promotes physical and social health in children. Play environments with natural elements like trees and plants encourage creativity, resilience, and social interactions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJun 10, 2015

Plants may run out of time to grow under ongoing climate change

A new study finds that climate change will lead to overall declines in plant growing days by 2100 due to warming, drought, and limited solar radiation. The study reveals that tropical regions will face significant reductions in suitable climates for plant growth, with some areas facing up to a 200-day reduction per year.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 10, 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.

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.

NIST's 'nano-raspberries' could bear fruit in fuel cells

Researchers at NIST have created a fast process for making platinum nano-raspberries, which can act as catalysts in fuel cells. The nano-raspberries exhibit high surface area and stable clumping behavior, encouraging efficient reactions. This breakthrough could lead to more practical fuel cell technology.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Nanoparticle Research·DateJun 9, 2015
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.

Argonne advances engine simulation for greater efficiency

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have optimized CONVERGE code to achieve a three-fold increase in engine simulation speed, enabling faster design of better engines and reduced product development time. This breakthrough uses high-performance computing and load balancing techniques to maximize efficiency.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateJun 9, 2015

Current BMI tests underestimate obesity in teens with disabilities

A study published in the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation found that standard BMI assessments tend to underestimate obesity in adolescents with physical disabilities. The researchers suggest new cutoff points are needed for identifying disabled teens who may need diagnosis and treatment.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateJun 9, 2015

NASA looks at rare Arabian Sea tropical cyclone in 3-D

Tropical cyclone Ashobaa formed in the Arabian Sea, with NASA's GPM core satellite providing 3-D rainfall data. The storm is intensifying, with powerful thunderstorms near its center, and is expected to make landfall on June 12.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 9, 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.

Pre-lecture diagrams help students take better notes, learn more

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis found that providing illustrative diagrams before lectures enhances student learning and recall, particularly for students who struggle with organizing information. The research suggests that teachers should consider individual differences in learning skills when presenting material.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·DateJun 9, 2015

Scientists gain first glimpse of new concepts developing in the brain

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have made a breakthrough in understanding how the brain represents familiar concepts, such as houses and bananas. By teaching people new concepts and monitoring neural activity, they found that these representations occur in the same brain areas for everyone, using a shared 'filing system'.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateJun 9, 2015

NASA sees the start of India's monsoon season

The start of India's monsoon season was marked by increased rainfall in southern India, with data from NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission indicating above-average precipitation. Heavy showers dropped over 120 millimeters of rain in the week preceding June 8, 2015.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 9, 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.

Many experiments for the price of one -- a breakthrough in the study of gene regulation

Researchers developed a novel approach to deciphering gene regulation networks by leveraging biological knowledge and computational algorithms. They found that combining laboratory experiments with motif information can accurately predict DNA-binding behavior of transcription factors.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 9, 2015

New research calls for vitamin D supplementation in critically ill pediatric burn patients

A new clinical trial found that more than 10% of patients still had low levels of vitamin D at discharge, with levels worsening at the one-year follow-up exam. Vitamin D3 supplementation showed promise in addressing deficiency problems and their associated health risks.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateJun 9, 2015

Mentorship a key factor for female authorship in GI

Research on gender in GI publishing landscape reveals growing proportion of female first authors, but senior authors still lag behind. The study found a significant association between the gender of the lead and senior author.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 9, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New study shows intravenous glutamine reduces ischemia reperfusion injuries

A new study published in the Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition found that intravenous glutamine administration immediately after lower limb ischemia reduced inflammatory reactions locally and systemically. The study showed that GLN decreased gene expressions of inflammatory mediators, blood macrophage percentages, and plasma ...

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateJun 9, 2015

'Alzheimer's protein' plays role in maintaining eye health and muscle strength

Scientists discover that amyloid precursor protein binds to FE65 and FE65L1 proteins to facilitate eye and muscle health. Mice lacking these proteins develop severe lens degeneration and muscle weakness, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for cataracts and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 9, 2015

For safer care, simple steps yield substantial improvements in colorectal surgery

A new program at Johns Hopkins Hospital implemented consistent use of experienced medical teams, preemptive antibiotics, and early patient mobilization to reduce complications and accelerate recovery in colorectal surgery. The approach resulted in a significant reduction in hospital stays, surgical infections, blood clots, and costs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 9, 2015

Scientists downsize the giant 'Dreadnoughtus' dinosaur

Researchers at the University of Liverpool use digital modeling to reassess the mass of Dreadnoughtus, a massive plant-eating dinosaur. They find that estimates of 60 tonnes and above are unlikely, suggesting it may have weighed between 30-40 tonnes.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalBiology Letters·DateJun 9, 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.

Computer game reduces issues associated with AD/HD in children in China

A new study published in SAGE Open found that a computer game that exercises concentration and attention control can improve the behavior and social interactions of children with AD/HD in China. The game, combined with neurocognitive training, resulted in improved assignment completion, peer acceptance, and teacher relationships.

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateJun 9, 2015

NASA sees Blanca blanking out over Baja

The remnants of Hurricane Blanca are blanketing northern Baja California and mainland Mexico with disorganized storm clouds. NASA's GOES-West satellite captured an infrared image revealing the system's rapid disruption by high terrain, leading to dissipation later in the day.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 9, 2015

Birth weight affected by warm temperatures during pregnancy

A study by researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Harvard found that exposure to high air temperature during pregnancy increases the risk of lower birth weight and can cause preterm birth. High temperatures of 8.5 °C in the last trimester were associated with a 17g decrease in birth weight.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJun 9, 2015

Insomnia leads to decreased empathy in health care workers

A study published by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that insomnia decreases empathy in health care workers. The study, which included 97 subjects from various healthcare professions, used the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) to measure empathy across four subscales.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateJun 9, 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.

Improving energy storage with a cue from nature

A branching tree-like structure can increase the melting rate of materials for better energy storage. The study's findings could help improve phase change systems, essential for renewable energy sources like wind and sun.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 9, 2015

Stem cell discovery paves way for targeted treatment for osteoarthritis

Researchers at the University of York have identified individual stem cells that can regenerate tissue, cartilage and bone, opening the way for improved treatment options for osteoarthritis. The discovery has the potential to develop targeted therapies for arthritis patients, making cell-based treatments less of a lottery.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 9, 2015

Can not having enough to eat lead to poor diabetes management?

A recent study by the American Diabetes Association found that Latinos experiencing food insecurity have poorer glycemic control and eat fewer vegetables. The study suggests that food insecurity should be considered in overall diabetes management, highlighting the need for individualized care.

SourceAmerican Diabetes Association·JournalDiabetes Spectrum·DateJun 9, 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.

Aneurysms may recur years after endovascular treatment

Researchers found that patients with larger aneurysms or incomplete occlusion face a long-term risk of aneurysm recurrences after endovascular treatment. The study suggests that longer follow-up protocols may be necessary for some intracranial aneurysm patients who undergo EVT.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 9, 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.

Early intervention improves long-term outcomes for children with autism

A new study shows that early intensive autism intervention can lead to improved intellectual ability and reduced autism symptoms in young children. The therapy, known as the Early Start Denver Model, was found to be particularly effective in promoting social and communication skills.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 9, 2015

Social media helps young adults quit smoking

A new study from the University of Waterloo found that social media-based campaigns can be more effective in helping young adults quit smoking than traditional methods. The Break It Off campaign, launched by the Canadian Cancer Society, uses interactive websites and smartphone apps to engage users and encourage smoking cessation.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJun 9, 2015

Discovering a new force driving cell contraction during development and organogenesis

Researchers at the Center for Genomic Regulation have identified a new mechanism that generates forces to drive cell movements during development, replacing previous theories of shape changes. This discovery contributes to understanding organ development and maintenance by highlighting the role of volume changes and programmed cell death.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 9, 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.

New tool could track space weather 24 hours before reaching Earth

A new model can measure the magnetic field configuration of a solar eruption significantly further ahead in time, potentially giving forecasters 24-hour advance warning to protect their systems. The model uses NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory data and has been tested on eight different CMEs with promising results.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalSpace Weather·DateJun 9, 2015

Pigeon 'chain of command' aids navigation

Researchers found that hierarchical social structures, where individuals follow a single leader with rapid information passing down the 'chain of command', enable pigeon flocks to navigate accurately. This allows for better decision-making even when individual birds make navigation errors.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalInterface·DateJun 9, 2015

INFORMS journal: Microsoft algorithm improves directions in large networks for Bing Maps

A new algorithm developed by Microsoft researchers has improved route planning capabilities for Bing Maps, providing faster processing and more accurate information on lengthy trips. The Customizable Route Planning (CRP) engine also offers more reliable alternate routes and better estimates of time needed for turns and traffic snarls.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalTransportation Science·DateJun 9, 2015

Brain lesions in children challenging to diagnose

A multidisciplinary team of Loyola University Medical Center physicians report a case of a 12-year-old boy with refractory seizures due to an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in the brain. The case highlights the challenge in distinguishing different lesions based on imaging, emphasizing the importance of carefully analyzing available ...

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateJun 9, 2015

Single dose of HPV vaccine may prevent cervical cancer

A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology suggests that a single dose of the HPV vaccine Cervarix can provide similar protection to three doses, offering hope for improving vaccination rates. This finding is particularly relevant for states like Kentucky with low completion rates.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJun 9, 2015
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.