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Science News Archive May 2015


Page 19 of 31

RDA Data Share announces fellowship awards

The RDA Data Share Fellowship recognizes and supports early-career researchers in adopting data-sharing best practices. Fellows will collaborate with working groups, receive stipends, and attend bi-annual plenaries.

Nation's beekeepers lost 40 percent of bees in 2014-15

The US experienced a significant decline in honey bee colonies between April 2014 and April 2015, with beekeepers losing over 40% of their colonies. Summer losses were particularly severe, with commercial beekeepers facing high rates of colony losses due to unknown factors.

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.

Mayo Clinic to study 10,000 patients for drug-gene safety

The Mayo Clinic is launching a study of 10,000 patients to examine the potential risks of drug reactions based on individual genome variations. Researchers will analyze DNA sequencing data from 69 genes influencing drug metabolism, aiming to identify 'early warning systems' for adverse reactions and ineffective treatments.

Tumor sequencing study highlights benefits of profiling healthy tissue as well

A recent study from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center suggests that profiling normal DNA provides an opportunity to identify inherited mutations critical for patients and their families. Researchers sequenced tumor and normal DNA from patients with advanced cancer, identifying germline mutations in nearly all cases.

Stainless staining provides a new tool for clinicians and researchers

The study develops a method for label-free chemical imaging using infrared spectroscopic imaging, allowing molecular stains to be reproduced without tissue damage. This approach enables multiplexed molecular analysis and could revolutionize pathology in research and clinical practice.

Study reveals how rivers regulate global carbon cycle

Scientists from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution calculated the first direct estimate of how much organic carbon is exported to the ocean by rivers. The study found that rivers transport approximately 200 megatons of carbon to the ocean annually, with 80% coming from terrestrial biosphere and 20% from petrogenic sources.

Researchers discover 'swing-dancing' pairs of electrons

Researchers have discovered electrons that form pairs but don't reach a superconducting state, a breakthrough that could lead to new materials with room temperature superconductivity. This finding has significant implications for technologies such as high-speed rail and quantum computers.

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.

Performance degradation mechanism of a helicon plasma thruster

The study found that axial momentum loss occurs in the helicon plasma thruster due to internal electric fields. This loss significantly affects propulsive performance. The findings suggest more detailed understanding of plasma dynamics is needed for further development of high-power, electrodeless propulsion devices.

No laughing matter: Some perfectionists have a dark side

Research reveals differences in humor and social behavior among three types of perfectionism, including narcissistic, antisocial, and uncaring personality characteristics. Self-oriented perfectionists show pro-social elements, while socially prescribed perfectionists exhibit low self-esteem and antisocial traits.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

'Extreme' exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke causes mild intoxication

Researchers found that nonsmokers who inhaled secondhand cannabis smoke under extreme conditions experienced mild effects, including memory and coordination problems. The study provides significant insights into the impact of secondhand cannabis smoke on individuals and has implications for workplace drug testing.

Nuclear modernization programs threaten to prolong the nuclear era

Experts warn that nuclear modernization programs can prolong the nuclear era, creating international instability and undermining national security. A balanced approach is needed to achieve a balance between modernization and disarmament, with the US, Russia, and China taking the lead.

Astrology and celebrity: Seasons really do influence personality

Research by UConn researcher Mark Hamilton analyzed 300 celebrities across various fields, finding that certain astrological signs tend to cluster at specific times of the year. These seasonal effects are associated with traits like creativity, extroversion, and stubbornness.

A SMARTer approach to stroke care

A new approach using MRI scans has been developed to improve stroke care by diagnosing patients within 60 minutes of hospital arrival. The study found that this method reduced door-to-treatment times from 93 to 55 minutes, with a significant increase in the percentage of patients treated promptly.

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.

X-linked gene mutations cause some cases of male infertility, Pitt study says

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that X-linked gene mutations can contribute to azoospermia and male infertility. Researchers identified a deletion in the TEX11 gene on the X chromosome as a potential cause, which can lead to meiotic arrest and prevent the development of viable sperm.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

CNIO scientists are able to take immortality from cancer

Researchers from CNIO have discovered a new approach to fighting cancer by targeting telomeres and blocking the TRF1 gene. This method shows dramatic improvements in mice with lung cancer, with minimal toxic effects, offering a promising therapeutic target for cancer therapy.

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.

Myriad showcases its pioneering research at the 2015 ASCO Annual Meeting

Myriad Genetics presented 19 clinical studies on advanced companion diagnostic and molecular diagnostic tests for cancer treatment and prevention. The company's research focuses on personalized medicine, including selecting effective pharmaceuticals, preventing disease through hereditary cancer tests, and optimizing treatment decisions...

Research suggests average-sized models could sell more fashion

Research suggests that using average-sized models in fashion marketing campaigns can have a positive impact on product evaluation, especially for new brands. Women with low self-esteem tend to prefer average-sized models over size-zero ones. This shift could lead to increased sales and reduced controversy in the industry.

New shortcut to solar cells

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to simplify the manufacture of solar cells by employing electrodes as catalysts to create black silicon. The new process enables the production of black silicon with high efficiency and reflects little light, allowing more sunlight to reach the active elements of solar cells.

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.

UM study uncovers why songbirds vary in time devoted to warming eggs

A University of Montana study found that songbird species vary in time devoted to warming eggs due to factors such as lifespan and predation risk. Longer-lived species with more future breeding opportunities invest less effort in keeping eggs warm, while those with shorter lives put more effort into caring for their young.

Every bite you take, every move you make, astrocytes will be watching you

Researchers at the University of Montreal have discovered that astrocytes control the pattern of neuronal electrical activity, determining functions such as chewing, locomotion, and respiration. The study reveals a mechanism by which astrocytes regulate calcium levels, leading to changes in neural function.

Climate change boosts a migratory insect pest

A study by University of Maryland researchers found that climate warming has made potato leafhoppers arrive an average of 10 days earlier and cause more severe infestations. The pests cause significant economic damage to farmers across the eastern US, with losses estimated in millions of dollars.

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.

Economic burden of cancer extends into survivorship

A new study found cancer survivors in the US experience significant annual economic burdens, with nonelderly colorectal and breast cancer survivors facing substantial excess medical expenditures and employment disability. Elderly survivors have lower but still notable economic burdens, highlighting varying impact by age group and cance...

Research shows how antibodies produce vaccine-like effect against tumors

Researchers at Rockefeller University have discovered two antibody-binding receptors on immune cells that work together to kill tumors and create a memory of them. The study found that targeting specific antigens with antibodies can lead to the formation of immunological memory, which can suppress future tumor growth.

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.

Recreational drug use on weekends often morphs into daily use, BU study finds

A new study published in Annals of Family Medicine found that more than half of patients who report 'weekend-only' drug use expand their use to weekdays. Primary care clinicians should monitor these patients, as weekend-only users are less likely to increase frequency and severity of use compared to those with non-weekend-only use.

Variations in liver cancer attributable to hepatitis virus variations

Researchers found that hepatitis B patients develop HCC at a younger age with more aggressive disease, while hepatitis C patients have underlying cirrhosis and diabetes. The study highlights the need to consider hepatitis status when developing treatment plans for newly diagnosed patients.

How the tumor microenvironment contributes to drug-resistant neuroblastoma

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that exosomic miRNAs released within the tumor environment affect resistance to chemotherapy in neuroblastoma. The exchange of specific microRNA called MiR155 between tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages leads to increased telomerase activity and resistance to chemotherapy.

Long-term depression may double stroke risk despite treatment

Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that long-term depression can increase stroke risk in adults over 50, with risks remaining even after symptoms subside. The study of 16,178 participants showed that those with high depressive symptoms had a higher risk of first-time stroke.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Cause of galactic death: Strangulation

A study published in Nature found that galaxies are being strangled to death due to a lack of raw materials needed to form new stars. The team analyzed metal levels in over 26,000 galaxies and found that dead galaxies have higher metal content than alive ones.

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.

No link found between PTSD and cancer risk

A large study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found no evidence of an association between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and cancer incidence. This contradicts plausible theories suggesting a link between stress and cancer, but is consistent with previous population-based studies.

Long-term depression may double stroke risk for middle-aged adults

A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health researchers found that adults over 50 with persistent depressive symptoms are twice as likely to have a stroke as those without depression. Even after depressive symptoms improve, stroke risk remains elevated, particularly for women.

Trap-jaw ants jump with their jaws to escape the antlion's den

Researchers found that trap-jaw ants use their spring-loaded mandibles to jump out of harm's way when an ant-trapping predator stalks, doubling their survival rate. The study verifies that the mandibles aid the ants' survival by allowing them to eject themselves from a dangerous predicament.

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.

Ward elected to National Academy of Sciences

Dr. Bill Ward, a renowned planetary scientist, was elected to the National Academy of Sciences for his groundbreaking research on the origin and evolution of the Moon and other celestial bodies. His work has significantly contributed to our understanding of planetary science and the formation of our solar system.

New blood test quickly reveals severity of radiation injury

A novel blood test can rapidly predict the severity of radiation injury, enabling timely medical intervention and improving overall survival. The test uses microRNA biomarkers to determine the functional impact of radiation on bone marrow and other organs.

Memory and the hippocampus

A new study by Douglas Mental Health University Institute researchers suggests that the shape of the hippocampus, not its size, is linked to improved memory function. The research, published in Human Brain Mapping, found that individuals with a broader hippocampus tend to perform better on memory tests than those with a smaller one.

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.

Starving cancer cells instead of feeding them poison

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories and the University of Maryland have developed a new cancer treatment method that withholds an essential nutrient from cancer cells, starving them until they self-destruct. The method involves removing asparagine, a nutrient that cancer cells can't produce on their own.

New test could identify resistant tuberculosis faster

A new test developed by a UCL-led team can identify drug-resistant tuberculosis strains in days, reducing the time needed for genetic sequencing from weeks to days. This could lead to better treatment outcomes and control of transmission.