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Science News Archive May 2015 - Page 7


Page 7 of 31

Penn study links better 'good cholesterol' function with lower risk of later heart disease

A large prospective study found that individuals with higher HDL function have a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania analyzed data from over 25,000 participants and discovered a strong correlation between HDL function and reduced heart disease events.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateMay 26, 2015

Experiment confirms quantum theory weirdness: ANU media release

Scientists at ANU performed John Wheeler's delayed-choice thought experiment, proving that measurement is everything in quantum physics. The experiment found that reality only exists when observed, confirming the validity of quantum theory and its predictions about interference.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 26, 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.

Study identifies Ebola virus's Achilles' heel

Scientists discovered the molecular lock of Ebola virus's cellular entry, which could lead to the development of antiviral drugs blocking its interaction with Niemann-Pick C1. The study found mice lacking NPC1 gene were completely resistant to infection, suggesting a potential treatment for Ebola.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalmBio·DateMay 26, 2015

Severe ozone depletion avoided

A new study confirms the Montreal Protocol has effectively protected the ozone layer from severe depletion, with atmospheric concentrations of harmful substances declining since their peak in 1993. The researchers used a state-of-the-art model to investigate the impact of the treaty and found that without it, the Arctic ozone hole woul...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 2015

Soy supplements don't improve asthma

A new study from Northwestern University finds that soy supplements do not improve lung function for patients with asthma. Lifestyle and diet may play a role in managing the disease, rather than relying on individual strategies like increasing soy consumption.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA·DateMay 26, 2015

Supernovas help 'clean' galaxies

Recent research found that supernovas work hand-in-hand with supermassive black holes to sweep out gas, interrupting star formation in galaxies. The partnership of these celestial events may help understand why massive galaxies stopped forming stars billions of years ago.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 26, 2015
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Top challenges for the future of humanity and the planet

The UN Secretary-General's Scientific Advisory Board has identified key scientific challenges for sustainable development, including a Blue Economy, biodiversity, climate change, and access to water. The board recommends investing in research and education to address these issues and ensure a better future for humanity.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·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.

New technique speeds nanoMRI imaging

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new multiplexing technique that accelerates nanoMRI imaging, enabling faster and more efficient scanning of nanoscale objects. The technique cuts normal scan time from two weeks to just two days.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 26, 2015

Study identifies possible role for carbon monoxide in treating hemorrhagic stroke

A new study finds that carbon monoxide can help accelerate the natural process of clearing heme, a toxic component of red blood cells, and reduce neuronal injury in mice with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The study suggests that low amounts of CO may be used to treat patients with ruptured cerebral aneurysms.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 26, 2015

ER doctors stress need for good communications with police

ER physicians emphasize the importance of developing strategies to optimize communications between police and ED workers due to differing perspectives on patient privacy and investigation needs. They suggest attempting to obtain patient consent before disclosing information and using limited disclosure when necessary.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Journal of Emergency Medicine·DateMay 26, 2015

Special fats proven essential for brain growth

Research at Duke-NUS Medical School reveals lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs) are crucial for human brain development and function. Studies show that mutations in the protein Mfsd2a, which transports LPCs, lead to impaired brain growth and function.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 25, 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.

Researchers unveil new gene subgroup in prostate cancer

A new gene subgroup has been identified as a key driver of prostate cancer, allowing for the development of personalized treatment options. The study found that half of all prostate cancer patients have mutations in either C-MYC or L-MYC genes, which can influence disease aggression and treatment response.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 25, 2015

Researchers find the 'key' to quantum network solution

Scientists at the University of York have developed a protocol to achieve key-rates at metropolitan distances three orders-of-magnitude higher than previously. This breakthrough enables the creation of secure communication technologies for consumer, commercial and government markets.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 25, 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.

Monitoring magnetospheres

A Queen's University PhD student is conducting the first systematic population study of magnetosphere-host stars, finding that plasma density within all such magnetospheres is far lower than predicted. This suggests that plasma might be escaping gradually, maintaining magnetospheres in an essentially steady state.

SourceQueen's University·DateMay 25, 2015

One step closer to a single-molecule device

Columbia University researchers develop a new technique to create single-molecule diodes, outperforming previous designs by 50 times. The breakthrough enables high current flow and rectification ratios, paving the way for nanoscale devices with real-world technological applications.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 25, 2015

Ovarian cancer-specific markers set the stage for early diagnosis, personalized treatments

Researchers at University of California, San Diego, have identified six mRNA isoforms that distinguish ovarian cancer cells from normal cells, offering potential for early diagnosis and targeted therapies. The study's findings may also lead to new therapeutic targets and more effective treatment options.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 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.

Fine-tuned molecular orientation is key to more efficient solar cells

Researchers at RIKEN achieved a power conversion efficiency of 10% in polymer solar cells, bringing them closer to commercial viability. The key to their success lies in the optimized molecular orientation of the materials, which improves electron transport and enhances overall efficiency.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 25, 2015

Study suggests new way of preventing diabetes-associated blindness

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland have discovered a new way to treat diabetic retinopathy by blocking two growth proteins, VEGF and angiopoietin-like 4. This could prevent many cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, which is the most common cause of vision loss in working-age adults in the US.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2015

In study, new swab reveals one-third of babies with severe diarrhea had undiagnosed, treatable infection

A new 'flocked swab' tool improved diagnosis and treatment of deadly childhood diarrheal diseases, saving lives by pinpointing treatable pathogens. The innovative test-and-treat strategy led to significant health improvements, including reduced diarrhea recurrence and increased growth in children.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateMay 25, 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.

Appropriate duration of dual antiplatelet therapy still unclear

A systematic review of published evidence found that extended dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) decreases the risk for myocardial infarction but increases major bleeding events and may increase mortality. The authors suggest based on patient preferences after discussing benefits and harms.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 25, 2015

Like Sleeping Beauty, some research lies dormant for decades, IU study finds

A new IU study identifies the 'sleeping beauties,' research papers that lie dormant for years before experiencing sudden recognition. The study found that papers in physics, chemistry, and multidisciplinary science were most likely to experience delayed citations, with some papers staying dormant for over 70 years.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2015

Road traffic noise linked to heightened risk of mid-riff bulge

Research found a strong association between road traffic noise and increased waist size and waist:hip ratio, even after controlling for socioeconomic factors. The study also suggested that cumulative exposure to multiple sources of noise pollution may pose the greatest risk.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMay 25, 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.

Asian family research answers questions on fatty acid in brain

A new study published in Nature Genetics highlights the critical role of essential fatty acids like omega-3 in human brain growth and development. The research, conducted in a rural community in Pakistan, identified a genetic mutation that impairs the brain's ability to absorb these vital fats.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 25, 2015

Dartmouth researchers create first smartphone app that predicts GPA

The SmartGPA app uses machine learning algorithms to infer student behaviors and predict GPA, showing significant correlations between study habits and academic performance. The results reveal key behavioral patterns associated with high and low performers, providing new insights for improving students' academic performance.

SourceDartmouth College·DateMay 25, 2015

Biodiversity: 11 new species come to light in Madagascar

A new study reveals that the panther chameleon, found only in Madagascar, is composed of 11 different species. Genetic analysis and colour patterns confirmed strong genetic structure among populations, with low interbreeding among lineages.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 25, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Climate engineering may save coral reefs, study shows

A new study suggests that geoengineering techniques, such as Solar Radiation Management, can reduce the risk of global severe bleaching and degradation of coral reefs. The research found that even under ambitious CO2 reduction scenarios, widespread coral bleaching will occur by the middle of this century.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 25, 2015

Complex signaling between blood and stem cells controls regeneration in fly gut

Researchers at the Buck Institute discovered that macrophage-like hemocytes play a crucial role in regulating stem cell activity in the fly gut. This complex signaling interaction helps control intestinal regeneration after damage, but goes awry with age, potentially contributing to human diseases like IBS and colorectal cancer.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 25, 2015
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.

Location matters in the lowland Amazon

Researchers used high-tech instruments to map canopy chemistry in the Amazon, finding that plants in different areas produce unique chemicals based on topography. The study reveals a hidden tapestry of chemical variation, highlighting the importance of geography in shaping ecosystem functions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 25, 2015

Engineering phase changes in nanoparticle arrays

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a method to selectively rearrange nanoparticles in three-dimensional arrays, producing different configurations or phases from the same nano-components. This allows for dynamic control over material properties, such as response to light or magnetic fields.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 25, 2015

Frailer older patients at higher risk of readmission or death after discharge from hospital

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that frailer older patients are at a higher risk of readmission to hospital or death within 30 days after discharge. The researchers assessed the use of the Clinical Frailty Scale, which can help identify patients at high risk of poor outcomes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 25, 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.

'Health cards' to find out the condition of agricultural ecosystems

The new TSEA or Agricultural Ecosystem Health Cards provide a practical tool for diagnosing agricultural ecosystem health through analysis of surface-level crop indicators and underground soil level. These handbooks enable users to make basic or advanced diagnoses, with a focus on biological parameters such as microbiological activity.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·DateMay 25, 2015

Cognitive impairment predicts worse outcome in heart failure

Research presented at Heart Failure 2015 found that cognitive impairment is common in elderly heart failure patients, occurring in three-quarters of patients. The study also showed that cognitive impairment predicts a worse prognosis, with an increased risk of all-cause death and heart failure readmission.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMay 24, 2015

Can you see what I hear? Blind human echolocators use visual areas of the brain

Research by Dr. Mel Goodale shows that blind echolocation experts recruit regions of the brain associated with visual perception when making echo-based assessments of objects. They can also perceive material properties such as hardness and density through auditory cues, an effective form of sensory substitution for vision.

SourceCanadian Association for Neuroscience·DateMay 24, 2015
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.

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.

Cutting edge research and collegiality the focus of EuroPCR 2015

EuroPCR 2015 highlighted the benefits of mechanical thrombectomy in acute stroke, showing significant improvement in outcomes for one-third of patients who qualify for the procedure. The meeting also showcased advancements in coronary interventions, including chronic total occlusions and stent thrombosis.

SourcePCR·DateMay 22, 2015

Scientists create mice with a major genetic cause of ALS and FTD

Researchers have successfully created mice that mimic the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), two devastating neurodegenerative disorders. The mice exhibit key hallmarks of the diseases, including toxic RNA clusters and TDP-43 protein inclusions.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalScience·DateMay 22, 2015