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Science News Archive May 2015 - Page 5


Page 5 of 31

How container-grown plants capture sprinkler irrigation water

Container-grown plant researchers developed a formula to evaluate irrigation capture in ornamental plants, revealing factors that affect CF, including plant size, growth habit, and sprinkler type. This knowledge can aid growers in adjusting irrigation rates and reducing water use.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMay 27, 2015

The safe use of flavorings in e-cigarettes

A new guide provides a systematic approach to evaluating the safety of e-cig flavorings, considering toxicological thresholds and thermal breakdown products. The guide aims to fill data gaps and provide guidance for regulatory standards, ensuring safer e-cigarette production.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalRegulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology·DateMay 27, 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.

Pre-surgery beta blockers, risk of death examined in noncardiac surgery

A study found that pre-surgery beta-blockers may increase the risk of death in patients with no cardiac risk factors undergoing noncardiac surgery. However, the use of beta-blockers was beneficial for patients with three to four cardiac risk factors. The analysis included over 326,000 patients and measured 30-day surgical mortality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 27, 2015

Study could explain why ovarian cancer treatments fail

Researchers discovered ovarian cancer cells can lock into survival mode and avoid chemotherapy destruction. The study, published in Nature, used whole genome sequencing to analyse tumour DNA samples from 91 patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2015

Linking superconductivity and structure

Researchers have discovered a key link between superconductivity and structure in iron arsenide compounds, which could potentially lead to higher-temperature superconductivity. Under pressure, the compound undergoes a structural change that leads to a loss of superconducting ability.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 27, 2015

Beliefs and family crucial in South Asian people's management of diabetes

A study published in BMC Family Practice reveals that South Asian individuals with diabetes often struggle due to conflicting views on the causes of their condition. However, strong family support networks can help manage the disease, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive treatment plans and education guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBMC Family Practice·DateMay 27, 2015

How spacetime is built by quantum entanglement

Physicists at University of Tokyo unify general relativity and quantum mechanics by showing how spacetime emerges from quantum entanglement. Quantum entanglement generates extra dimensions of gravitational theory, shedding light on the microscopic structure of spacetime.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Global climate on verge of multi-decadal change

A study published in Nature reveals that ocean circulation is driving decadal-scale climatic change, with a potential half-degree cooler phase bringing drier summers in Britain and Ireland. The Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation (AMO) influences temperature, rainfall, drought, and hurricane frequency worldwide.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2015

Coping skills training in rheumaotoid arthritis research recognized by BSBS of MI

A randomized clinical trial found that cognitive-behavioral coping skills training had positive effects on pain and mood in rheumatoid arthritis patients for at least one year. Written emotional disclosure was less effective, with no long-term benefits on joint functioning or pain reduction.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateMay 27, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pennington Family Foundation awards $200,000 grant to LIBD for autism research

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) has been awarded a $200,000 grant by the Pennington Family Foundation to investigate the factors contributing to varying outcomes in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study aims to identify biological associations that can improve treatment strategies and prevent long-term ...

SourceLieber Institute for Brain Development·DateMay 27, 2015

'Hidden' fragrance compound can cause contact allergy

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that linalyl acetate, a common fragrance chemical, can react with oxygen to form allergenic hydroperoxides. Approximately 2% of tested individuals had allergic reactions to oxidized linalyl acetate, highlighting the need for broader testing and declaration on cosmetic products.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalContact Dermatitis·DateMay 27, 2015

New electronic stent could provide feedback and therapy -- then dissolve

Researchers have developed a drug-releasing electronic stent that provides diagnostic feedback by measuring blood flow, which slows when an artery starts narrowing. The device can also heat up on command to speed up drug delivery, and it can dissolve once it's no longer needed, reducing the risk of blood clot formation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 27, 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.

Glacier changes at the top of the world

Researchers warn that Himalayan glaciers in the Everest region could experience dramatic change, with sustained ice loss likely through the 21st century. The study suggests that increased temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns will lead to reduced glacier growth and increased melt, impacting water availability and river flows.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateMay 27, 2015

Robots can recover from damage in minutes

A new algorithm allows robots to automatically adapt to injury, learning a compensatory behavior in under two minutes. The Intelligent Trial and Error algorithm enables robots to quickly discover a new way to walk or perform tasks despite damage.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2015

The analogy that builds human thought

Researchers discovered that infants as young as 7-9 months old possess the ability to identify abstract relations between objects and generalize them to new pairs. This suggests that analogical thinking is an innate cognitive function that precedes linguistic abilities.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalChild Development·DateMay 27, 2015

Girls receive conflicting career messages from media, new research shows

Research shows teenage girls value women in non-appearance focused careers, such as CEOs and military pilots, over those in appearance-focused jobs like modeling. Girls rate female CEOs and military pilots as more competent and likable than women in appearance-focused roles.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Research·DateMay 27, 2015
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.

Similarities between aurorae on Mars and Earth

Researchers predict that Mars' aurorae can be visible to the naked eye, displaying colors similar to those on Earth. The study suggests that carbon dioxide in the Martian atmosphere contributes to the formation of blue, green, and red aurorae.

SourceAalto University·JournalPlanetary and Space Science·DateMay 27, 2015

Zebrafish model gives new insight on autism spectrum disorder

Researchers used zebrafish to study the impact of dysregulation of SYNGAP1 and SHANK3 genes on brain development and behavior. The study found that disrupting these genes leads to hyper-excitable behaviors, delayed development, and changes in brain structure.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMay 27, 2015

Treatments of hot water with calcium found effective for kiwifruit

A new study from Iran recommends treatments of hot water with calcium to extend storage life and improve quality in kiwifruit. The research evaluated the effect of hot water combined with Ca solution treatments on qualitative characteristics of kiwifruit during cold storage, showing that these treatments significantly suppressed color ...

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMay 27, 2015
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.

Discovery shows what the solar system looked like as a 'toddler'

An international team of astronomers has identified a young planetary system, located 360 light years away, with a disc-shaped bright ring of dust around a star similar to the sun. The disc's brightness and composition are consistent with the Kuiper Belt in our solar system.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 27, 2015

When children with autism grow old

A new NIH grant will help researchers at SDSU study brain connections and cognitive abilities in older adults with autism. This is a significant step towards understanding how autism affects individuals across the lifespan.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateMay 27, 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.

AACR and Bayer partner to fund fellowships to advance cancer research

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has partnered with Bayer HealthCare to expand its Basic Cancer Research Fellowship Program. The partnership aims to support young scientists conducting basic cancer research, addressing the current funding crisis in biomedical research.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateMay 27, 2015

Lawrence Livermore scientists 1 step closer to mimicking gamma-ray bursts

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have created a record high number of positrons using lasers, which could help study gamma-ray bursts and extreme astrophysical processes. The team used three laser systems to produce nearly a trillion positrons, opening opportunities for antimatter research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 2015
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.

Experiments in the realm of the impossible

Physicists at Jena University successfully simulated charged Majorana particles, a theoretical concept long considered impossible. The experiment allows for the study of non-physical processes and may lead to breakthroughs in quantum computing.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalOptica·DateMay 27, 2015

NEH funds international project to digitize Coptic texts

The University of the Pacific has been awarded a $192,500 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to digitize Coptic texts. This two-year project, called KELLIA, is an international collaboration between US universities and German institutions.

SourceUniversity of the Pacific·DateMay 27, 2015

'Do' is better than 'don't' when it comes to eating better

A new study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that emphasizing healthy food benefits over warning about unhealthy foods is more effective for most people. Focusing on the positive consequences of eating healthy, such as broccoli's benefits, can lead to better dietary habits.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·DateMay 27, 2015

A new era for genetic interpretation

ClinGen aims to standardize genetic variant interpretation, resolving differences between labs and clinicians. The program uses ClinVar, a database of over 170,000 variant submissions, and has formed expert working groups to interpret gene-disease relationships and improve clinical decision-making.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 27, 2015
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Understanding and controlling the propagation of waves

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has secured funding for two collaborative research centers (CRCs): one focused on wave phenomena in mathematics and the other on enhancing weather forecasting. The CRCs aim to analytically understand, numerically simulate, and manipulate wave propagation under realistic scenarios.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·DateMay 27, 2015

How longhorned beetles find Mr. Right

Beetle species segregate mating activity by time of day and seasonal changes, allowing females to choose mate from specific species. This discovery provides a framework for understanding how insects produce separate signals with the same pheromone.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateMay 27, 2015

Expanding the code of life with new 'letters'

Two new nucleotides, 'Z' and 'P', have been found to form double helix structures similar to those made by the four natural bases C-G-A-T, opening up possibilities for creating new proteins with medical applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 27, 2015

Notre Dame paper examines how students understand mathematics

A new study by Nicole McNeil and Emily Fyfe found that using abstract labels to identify patterns improves preschoolers' problem-solving skills. The researchers compared concrete labels to abstract labels in a set of patterning problems, with children assigned to the abstract labels condition solving more problems correctly.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalChild Development·DateMay 27, 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.

Physicists solve quantum tunneling mystery: ANU media release

An international team of scientists has solved a quantum mechanics mystery, finding that quantum tunneling is an instantaneous process. The new theory could lead to breakthroughs in areas like electron microscopy, nuclear fusion, and DNA mutations.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 26, 2015

Better fine motor skills with delayed cord clamping

A four-year follow-up study of 263 children found that delayed cord clamping (DCC) was associated with improved fine motor skills, particularly in boys. The study did not find a significant impact on IQ or overall development.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 26, 2015

Changes in forest structure affect bees and other pollinators

A new study by U.S. Forest Service scientists shows that changes in forest structure may be contributing to declines in native bee populations. Bees prefer open forests with diverse herbaceous communities, which require prescribed fire to maintain. Managing for open forests can also help sustain other species and pollination.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateMay 26, 2015

Protecting South America's iconic golden dorado fish

A new study by University of Massachusetts Amherst fisheries biologist Andy J. Danylchuk is assessing the impact of catch-and-release fishing on the golden dorado fish in South America. The study aims to develop conservation strategies and sustainable fishing practices for this iconic species, which is crucial to the regional ecotouris...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateMay 26, 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.

Clinical trial reduces stress of cancer caregivers

A clinical trial at University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus demonstrates an intervention that successfully reduces caregiver stress in cancer patients treated with stem cell transplantation. The study shows significant lower stress levels and improved quality of life for caregivers.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalBone Marrow Transplantation·DateMay 26, 2015

Therapy-resistant breast cancer mechanism revealed

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that a specific type of non-coding RNA, known as Eleanors, plays a key role in the development of endocrine therapy resistance in ER-positive breast cancer cells. Resveratrol was found to repress these RNAs, inhibiting the proliferation of resistant cancer cells.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 2015
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.

Friendships start better with a smile

A study led by Belinda Campos found that people are highly attuned to others' positive emotions and can form new social bonds based on these displays. Awareness of others' positive emotions can provide important relationship information, helping individuals feel secure in their relationships and resolve conflicts.

SourceSpringer·JournalMotivation and Emotion·DateMay 26, 2015

Simple recipe to make sensory hair cells in the ear

Researchers at the Molecular Medicine Institute and University College London Ear Institute have created a protocol to produce inner ear hair cells, crucial for hearing and balance. The study's success suggests that similar strategies might work in humans, paving the way for cell transplantation therapies or high-throughput drug screens.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateMay 26, 2015

Pitt team IDs two new, very large classes of RNAs linked to cancer biomarker

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have identified two new classes of RNAs associated with breast cancer biomarker YB-1, which may play a role in prostate cancer progression. The discovery could lead to the development of new cancer treatments and provide insights into human biology.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalRNA·DateMay 26, 2015

TVs and second screens a bad combination for advertisers

A study by Ohio State University found that viewers struggle to recall brand messages on TV when using a second screen, as they get distracted by social media and other online activities. The research suggests that brands may need to rethink their marketing strategies to effectively reach consumers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Marketing·DateMay 26, 2015

Study examines umbilical cord clamping and neurodevelopment

A study examining umbilical cord clamping and neurodevelopment found that delayed cord clamping was associated with higher scores in fine-motor and social skills in children at age 4, especially in boys. The results suggest positive effects from delayed cord clamping without any adverse effects on overall IQ or behavior.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 26, 2015
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.

Study examines hospice use and depression symptoms in surviving spouses

Researchers found a modest reduction in depressive symptoms among some surviving spouses of hospice users compared with non-hospice users. Hospice care was associated with improved depression scores for a subgroup of surviving spouses, particularly those who were primary caregivers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 26, 2015

The first fraction of ejaculate is the most effective for conception

A recent study led by the Ginemed fertility clinic found that sperm in the first fraction of ejaculate are more numerous, move faster, and have better DNA integrity than those in the second phase. This discovery could lead to improved fertilization rates and embryonic development.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalSystems Biology in Reproductive Medicine·DateMay 26, 2015

Psychedelic drugs should be legally reclassified as they may benefit patients

A psychiatrist advocates for the reclassification of psychedelic drugs as Schedule 2 compounds, citing their potential benefits in treating various psychiatric disorders. He notes that these substances were extensively used and researched before prohibition in 1967, but are now subject to strict regulations that hinder further research.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 26, 2015

You're driving yourself to burnout, literally

A study by Annie Barreck of the University of Montreal found a significant link between commuting patterns and burnout symptoms. Long commutes, particularly by car in urban areas, increase the risk of professional burnout. Employers can mitigate this by adopting flexible commuting arrangements.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateMay 26, 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.

What is the most humane way to kill a cane toad?

Researchers from the University of Sydney have found a humane way to kill cane toads by placing them in a refrigerator for a few hours before transferring them to a freezer. This method induces unconsciousness without causing pain, solving a long-standing dilemma for communities affected by the invasive species.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBiology Open·DateMay 26, 2015