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Science News Archive March 2015


Page 12 of 38

A method to simplify pictures makes chemistry calculations a snap

Researchers apply compressed sensing to simplify chemistry calculations, reducing the need for expensive high-accuracy calculations. The technique achieves results three times faster than traditional methods, showing promising potential for a 'virtual laboratory' in chemistry research.

India needs to do much more to tackle its alarming TB epidemic

India's TB epidemic is worsened by the failure of its Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program to engage the private sector, argues Dr. Zarir Udwadia. The program needs to provide free diagnosis and treatment to all patients, regardless of sector, to control the spread of TB.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Shape-shifting frog discovered in Ecuadorian Andes

A newly discovered frog species, Pristimantis mutabilis, has the ability to change its skin texture in minutes to blend into its surroundings. The frogs were found in Ecuador's cloud forest and their shape-shifting capability challenges traditional methods of species identification.

Water content thresholds recommended for Gardenia jasminoides

A study by American Society for Horticultural Science researchers recommends specific water content thresholds for improved irrigation management in Gardenia jasminoides. The results show that applying water only when needed leads to efficient irrigation with minimal leaching, resulting in better plant growth and root establishment.

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.

UEA mathematicians solve 60-year-old problem

Researchers from UEA and international partners utilized wave turbulence theory to tackle the Fermi-Pasta-Ulam problem, a 60-year-old numerical experiment. They successfully predicted long thermalization timescales and corroborated their findings with extensive simulations.

Cattle-killer: Two parasites are better than one

A study published in Science Advances reveals that co-infection with two parasite species can reduce the severity of a more lethal disease, East Coast fever. The researchers propose using a mild parasitic infection as a vaccine alternative, which could be safer and less costly.

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.

Toward a more realistic picture of how molecules move within cells

Researchers developed a new technique to visualize and track molecules in real-time, revealing their dynamic behavior in living cells. This provides a more realistic picture of how molecules move within cells, shedding light on previously hidden factors involved in nanocrystal assembly.

Highlights from the inaugural issue of ACS Central Science

The inaugural issue of ACS Central Science features a range of articles highlighting the importance of chemistry in bridging physical and life sciences. Key findings include advances in analytical chemistry enabling real-time monitoring of genetic and environmental factors, and synthetic chemistry's role in delivering genetic treatments.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

World's largest asteroid impacts found in central Australia

A team of geophysicists discovered the twin scars of two massive asteroid impacts in Central Australia, hidden deep within the earth's crust. The impact zones are estimated to be over 400 kilometers wide and are believed to have occurred millions of years ago.

News from Annals of Internal Medicine March 24, 2015

The US Preventive Services Task Force finds that routine screening for thyroid dysfunction in nonpregnant, asymptomatic adults lacks sufficient evidence. In contrast, the American Diabetes Association recommends individualized treatment plans for patients with diabetes, taking into account factors like age, comorbid conditions, and car...

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.

Majority of new pediatricians satisfied with first jobs

A majority of new general pediatricians are satisfied with their first job, with lifestyle and family considerations being the most important factor. The study found that over 80% of new pediatricians were very satisfied with their first jobs, with many wanting to spend more time in patient care and less in administrative tasks.

Stress management techniques improve long-term mood and quality of life

A new study finds that providing women with stress management skills during breast cancer treatment can lead to improved mood and quality of life many years later. Women who received the intervention had persistently less depressive symptoms and better quality of life up to 15 years post-treatment.

Landmark study proves that magnets can control heat and sound

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a way to control heat with magnetic fields, using acoustic phonons to steer heat magnetically. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for energy manipulation, potentially allowing for the control of sound waves as well.

FARE announces recipients of investigator in food allergy awards

The FARE Investigator in Food Allergy Awards support early and mid-career researchers expanding scientific understanding of food allergy through education and basic and clinical research. Recipients include Jessica O'Konek and Duane Wesemann, who will investigate nanoemulsion-based vaccines and the influence of microbial exposures on p...

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.

OU engineering researcher reshapes military communications

Jessica Ruyle's innovative design allows communications systems to operate uninterrupted in the field, reducing performance and improving mobility. The new technology also has applications in police forces, firefighting teams, and commercial airplanes.

Implementing decision aids affects care decisions in urology

Implementing video-based decision aids in urology led to fewer elective surgeries for benign prostatic hyperplasia and localized prostate cancer. Rates of surgical intervention declined by 32% for treated BPH patients and 27% for localized prostate cancer patients.

Blood thinning drug helps in understanding a natural HIV barrier

Researchers have identified two mechanisms by which a blood thinning agent interacts with a protein that acts as a natural HIV barrier, shedding light on the degradation of the virus. The study aims to develop drugs that inhibit HIV infection without harming langerin's protective function.

New membranes deliver clean water more efficiently

The new membranes show comparable performance to existing commercial membranes but with greater resistance to chlorine-containing chemicals. This technology can reduce operating costs and prevent decreased water flow due to biological fouling.

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.

Comparing the genomes of the leprosy bacteria

Researchers have analyzed the complete genome of Mycobacterium lepromatosis and compared it to that of the major leprosy-causing bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. The study reveals the origin and evolutionary history of both bacteria, offering new insights into their biology, global distribution, and possibly treatment.

Legalizing marijuana and the new science of weed (video)

Scientists have found that marijuana potency has tripled in some strains since legalization, with some samples containing up to 30% THC. However, many products lack cannabidiol, a compound with potential medical benefits, and contain contaminants such as fungi and solvents.

Quantum correlation can imply causation

Research from the University of Waterloo and Perimeter Institute demonstrates that quantum mechanics can distinguish between cause-effect relations and common causes, unlike classical physics. This breakthrough enables a new approach to causal inference, potentially solving long-standing problems in science.

Prehistoric super salamander was top predator, fossils suggest

A previously undiscovered species of giant salamander-like amphibian was identified in southern Portugal, growing up to 2m in length and feeding mainly on fish. The discovery reveals that this group of primitive amphibians was more geographically diverse than previously thought.

Flower-enriched farms boost bee populations

A two-year study found that flower strips on farms in the UK increased common bumblebee populations by significantly boosting their numbers and nesting density. The research suggests that targeted agri-environment schemes can boost bee populations, particularly for common species, but may not benefit rarer species as much.

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.

Mental health report finds staffing problems linked to ward suicides

A new report by the University of Manchester found that inadequate staffing and protocols contribute to suicidal deaths among mentally ill patients under observation. The study suggests that more experienced staff and improved observational practices are needed to reduce such incidents.

UW scientists build a nanolaser using a single atomic sheet

The UW nanolaser is built using a single atomic sheet of a tungsten-based semiconductor, which emits light efficiently and can be easily fabricated. This technology has the potential to revolutionize next-generation computing and optical communication by consuming less energy and enabling faster device performance.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists use DNA sequencing to trace the spread of drug-resistant TB

Researchers used genetic analysis to trace the source of infection in a British patient with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). The study found that the patient caught the infection from a healthcare worker who had worked in South Africa, highlighting the need for effective infection prevention measures.

Chemical fingerprints of ancient supernovae found

Researchers found two ancient stars in Sculptor dwarf galaxy with unusual chemical content, suggesting a single supernova explosion may have seeded the gas cloud. This discovery provides an unprecedented view of the earliest history of another galaxy.

New chances for pharmacotherapy of primary ciliary dyskinesia patients

A randomized controlled trial aims to develop evidence-based treatment practices for primary ciliary dyskinesia, a rare respiratory disorder. Azithromycin may offer a potential maintenance prophylactic therapy for PCD patients, improving pulmonary exacerbation rates and quality of life.

Insulin resistance linked to a human gene variant

A new study identifies N-acetyltransferase 2 as a key gene variant linked to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Inhibition of NAT2 in a mouse model decreased insulin sensitivity, highlighting its role in complex diseases.

New research predicts a doubling of coastal erosion by mid-century in Hawai'i

A new study from the University of Hawaii predicts that coastal erosion in Hawai'i will double by mid-century, threatening thousands of homes and infrastructure. The model takes into account historical changes and projected sea level rise, indicating that shorelines will retreat an average of 16-20 feet by 2050 and nearly 60 feet by 2100.

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.

Archeologists discover Maya 'melting pot'

Archeologists discover that mobile and sedentary Maya groups co-existed and collaborated on construction projects, participating in public ceremonies. This finding challenges the idea that sedentary and mobile communities were separate.

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.

Exercise linked to improved erectile and sexual function in men

A recent study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men who exercise more have better erectile and sexual function, regardless of race. Higher levels of physical activity were associated with improved scores for sexual function, including the ability to have erections and orgasms.

3-D satellite, GPS earthquake maps isolate impacts in real time

Researchers created a 3D map of the South Napa earthquake's impact using GPS and satellite readings, predicting ground shaking and estimating human and infrastructure impacts. The study could improve reaction time to deadly earthquakes, reducing fatalities and economic losses.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Have researchers discovered the sound of the stars?

A team of researchers, including Dr. John Pasley, discovered that plasma flowing around stars could create a series of pressure pulses generating sound waves. The frequency was too high for any mammal to hear, making it impossible for humans to detect.

Colliding stars explain enigmatic 17th century explosion

A team of astronomers using APEX and other telescopes revealed that the star that appeared in the sky in 1670 was a rare stellar collision, not a nova. The team discovered a cool gas rich in molecules with an unusual chemical composition, which was too great to be explained by a nova explosion.