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Science News Archive March 2015


Page 27 of 38

Getting to the origins of photosynthesis

Researchers Cardona et al. examine evolution of D1 protein, heart of Photosystem II, to propose sequence of events for origin of water splitting in photosynthesis. They find evidence suggests water splitting could have evolved relatively fast after just a few changes to ancestral D1 protein.

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.

The car becomes Internet hardware

The Visio.M Automotive Service Bus, developed at Technical University of Munich, enables cars to communicate via the internet and drive remotely or autonomously. The system is protected from external attacks and features a uniform user interface with driver-friendly swipe gestures.

Salt affects organs

Excess dietary sodium can adversely affect target organs even in absence of blood pressure increase, including reduced function of endothelium, increased arterial stiffness, and kidney damage. Reducing sodium intake can help mitigate these effects.

Same forces as today caused climate changes 1.4 billion years ago

Researchers found evidence of repeated climate fluctuations 1.4 billion years ago, reflecting changes in wind patterns and ocean circulations driven by orbital forcing of climate change. The study sheds light on how past climate changes have affected Earth geologically and biologically.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers identify process for improving durability of glass

Researchers at UCLA and Université Pierre et Marie Curie identified a method for manufacturing more durable glass that resists temperature variations and aging. This breakthrough could result in stronger materials for various applications, including display screens, fiber optic cables, windows, and cement.

MRSA can linger in homes, spreading among its inhabitants

A recent study found that MRSA can persist in households for years, spreading from person to person and evolving genetically. The bacteria can be transmitted through household members, especially those with skin infections, and can even acquire extraneous DNA over time.

NASA looks inside and outside of Tropical Cyclone Pam

Tropical Cyclone Pam strengthened to hurricane-force near Vanuatu, with sustained winds reaching up to 56 mph and heavy rainfall expected. NASA's satellite data showed the storm's powerful thunderstorms, which are driving its circulation and intensification.

Hunting, birdwatching boosts conservation action

A study by Cornell University researchers found that rural landowners who hunt and bird watch are more likely to engage in conservation efforts. These individuals, often referred to as 'hunter/bird watchers,' were found to be eight times more likely to participate in conservation actions than non-recreationists.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study reveals strong link between wildlife recreation and conservation

A new study by Clemson University and Cornell University found that birdwatchers are about five times as likely to engage in wildlife and habitat conservation as non-recreationists. Hunters were also found to be four times more likely to participate in conservation efforts. These findings suggest a strong connection between wildlife re...

Invertebrate palaeontology: The oldest crab larva yet found

The oldest known crab larva was recently discovered in a fossil, dating back 150 million years. The specimen's morphology is remarkably modern, resembling that of present-day crabs. This finding provides unique insights into the evolution of brachyurans and suggests early specialization of larvae within the crab lineage.

KIT physicist receives ERC Consolidator Grant of EU

Dr. Martin Weides of KIT is awarded EUR 2 million over five years to study dynamic processes in ferromagnets, which could lead to magnetic data processing components. He aims to understand damping and intrinsic rotations of individual electrons using quantum bits.

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.

Fading orange-red in Van Gogh's paintings

Researchers identify plumbonacrite as intermediate in degradation of red lead, leading to bleaching of the color over time. The discovery sheds new insights into the bleaching process of red lead, revealing a possible reaction pathway involving light and carbon dioxide.

New clues about the risk of cancer from low-dose radiation

Berkeley Lab scientists discovered that genetic makeup affects cancer risk from low-dose radiation, identifying key regions in the genome and tumor microenvironment. The findings could lead to genetic screening tests to identify people at high risk of cancer after exposure.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Bioelectricity plays key role in brain development and repair

Research at Tufts University reveals that bioelectrical signals regulate embryonic brain development and can even repair genetic defects. The study found that manipulating these signals can induce the growth of new brain tissue in locations where it would not normally grow, offering a promising approach for regenerative medicine.

Mysterious phenomena in a gigantic galaxy-cluster collision

Researchers have produced a detailed image of a galaxy-cluster collision using the VLA radio telescope, showing a variety of strange features related to the ongoing collision. The 'true color' image reveals details of interactions between merging clusters and suggests unexpected physical processes at work.

Physicists propose new classification of charge density waves

Researchers develop a new classification system for Charge Density Waves (CDWs) based on their nature, improving understanding of these complex phenomena. The study sheds light on the origin of CDWs and corrects a long-standing textbook picture, providing insights into materials science.

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.

Cellular scissors chop up HIV virus

Researchers created a CRISPR system that recognizes and cuts the HIV virus, effectively inactivating it. The technology has shown success in both treating active infections and removing dormant copies of the virus from cells.

ACL injuries in female athletes traced to genes

Researchers discovered 32 genes expressed differently in female compared to male ACL tissues, affecting ligament structure and integrity. Genetic counseling may guide personal decisions about participating in athletics, while strengthening core and technique could reduce injury risk.

The chameleon reorganizes its nanocrystals to change colors

Researchers at Université de Genève discover that chameleons change colors through the active tuning of a lattice of nanocrystals in iridophores. This unique system allows for rapid shifts between efficient camouflage and spectacular display, while also providing passive thermal protection.

Microbial soil cleanup at Fukushima

Researchers have discovered a protein in halophilic microbes that can selectively bind to caesium ions, providing potential for bioremediation of radioactive isotopes. The team plans to engineer this protein into plants to absorb and extract caesium from contaminated soil.

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.

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.

NASA sees a Tropical Storm Haliba 'sandwich'

Tropical Storm Haliba was sandwiched between La Reunion and Mauritius in NASA satellite imagery, with the bulk of its clouds pushed east by westerly vertical wind shear. The heaviest rainfall, exceeding 7.1 inches per hour, was detected northeast of Reunion Island.

Hospital readmissions following severe sepsis often preventable

A recent study found that approximately 40 percent of hospitalizations for severe sepsis can be prevented or treated early to avoid rehospitalization. The most common readmission diagnoses included ambulatory care sensitive conditions such as heart failure and pneumonia.

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.

Physicians and patients overestimate risk of death from acute coronary syndrome

A study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that physicians and patients significantly overestimated the risk of heart attack and death from acute coronary syndrome. Despite discussions about risk, patients' assessment of their risk remained unchanged or increased, highlighting ineffective patient-physician communication.

'Sugar papers' reveal industry role in 1970s dental program

Industry documents reveal close ties between sugar industry and NIH in developing research approaches focused on alternatives to reducing tooth decay. Analysis found that sugar industry priorities influenced the 1971 National Caries Program's research proposals.

Link between autism genes and higher intelligence, study suggests

A recent study suggests a link between genes linked with autism and higher intelligence in individuals who do not have the condition. Researchers found that carrying genetic traits associated with autism is, on average, linked to slightly better cognitive test scores, even in those without autism.

Predicting the extent of flash flooding

Researchers developed a new hydrological model to predict the extent of flash flooding by analyzing rainfall patterns at the hillslope scale. The model reveals that certain frequencies of rainfall can amplify runoff and lead to more severe flooding.

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 snap-shot fastest observations of superconductivity yet

The study used infinitely short light pulses to observe ultrafast changes in superconductors, supporting the hypothesis that electron interactions are delayed and mediated by other electrons. The snap-shot observations took only 10 femtoseconds, a record-breaking achievement for material scientists.

Supplemental feeding for endangered avian species

A University of Kent study reveals supplemental feeding improves Mauritius parakeet brood productivity, but increases disease susceptibility. Long-term monitoring highlights the importance of evidence-based conservation strategies.

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.

Research explores patient views of GP safety

A new study reveals that patients' perceptions of GP safety are crucial to reaching successful diagnosis and treatment. The research found that trust issues, alienation, and impersonal processes can lead to problems in improving patient safety within GP services.

Hippo 'crosstalk' may be vital to tumor suppression

Scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center discovered a vital connection between the Hippo pathway and glucose metabolism, which can be manipulated to regulate tumor growth. The study found that regulating blood sugar levels impacts the nutrient source of tumors, ultimately leading to cancer suppression.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Oregon researchers detail new insights on arsenic cycling

Researchers found high concentrations of dimethylarsinate (DMA) in southern Willamette Valley aquifers, correlating with overall arsenite levels. The study suggests that monitoring organic arsenic is crucial for treating arsenic-contaminated water.

Boosting older adults' vision through training

Research shows that training can effectively eliminate the age deficit in contrast sensitivity, improving visual function in older adults. The study found improvements in both near and far acuity, allowing participants to read more letters on eye charts after training.

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.

Venus, if you will, as seen in radar with the GBT

Scientists used bistatic radar to create high-resolution images of Venus' surface from Earth, revealing features like mountains, craters, and volcanoes. The technique enables comparison of images taken at different periods, helping detect signs of active volcanism or geologic processes.

How blood group O protects against malaria

Researchers from Karolinska Institutet identified the key role of RIFIN protein in protecting blood type O individuals from severe malaria. The protein binds strongly to A blood cells but weakly to O, explaining why O individuals are less susceptible to the disease.

Most information in drug development is lost

A McGill University study reveals that only 37% of registered drug trials in cancer, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases were published between 2005 and 2009. The findings highlight the importance of sharing information from stalled drug trials to improve care, protect patients, and discover better drugs.