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Science News Archive November 2015 - Page 17


Page 17 of 35

Plant metabolic protein tailored for nighttime growth

A team of researchers found that ferredoxin-5 is necessary for nighttime growth and proper membrane organization in photosynthetic organisms. The protein's electron-donating abilities drive biochemical reactions that alter fatty acid saturation, leading to aberrant membrane structure and impaired metabolic processes.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 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.

Alzheimer's patients' health care costs higher already before diagnosis

A new study reveals that Alzheimer's patients' healthcare costs increase significantly even before a diagnosis, primarily driven by hospital care and medication. The cost difference stabilizes two years after diagnosis, with AD patients having twice the healthcare costs of non-AD patients.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScandinavian Journal of Public Health·DateNov 16, 2015

Large-scale modeling shows confinement effects on cell macromolecules

Researchers used large-scale computer modeling to study the effects of confinement on macromolecules inside cells, finding that particles near cell walls linger for extended periods. This could improve understanding of cellular signaling and lead to new therapeutic designs.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2015

Study sheds light on why parasite makes TB infections worse

A recent study has found that treating a parasitic worm infection can reduce lung damage and susceptibility to tuberculosis in mice. The research suggests that using inexpensive anti-parasitic drugs could be an effective way to prevent TB in areas where both infections are common.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 16, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Entomology Professor to Receive National Teaching Award

Timothy Paine, a renowned entomology professor at UC Riverside, has been awarded the Excellence in College and University Teaching Awards for Food and Agricultural Sciences. His innovative teaching methods have improved student learning outcomes, and he is recognized for his dedication to inspiring young minds.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateNov 16, 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.

Primordial goo used to improve implants

Researchers at CSIRO Australia have developed a new coating using prebiotic compounds from primordial goo, which can be used to improve the performance and acceptance of medical implants. The coating is bio-friendly, cells readily grow on it, and has potential applications in reducing infection risk.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature·DateNov 16, 2015

Bats use weighty wings to land upside down

Researchers from Brown University found that bats' extra wing mass generates inertial forces to reorient themselves when landing, unlike other flying animals. The discovery may be useful in the development of human-made flying machines.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 16, 2015

Study finds surprising links between bullying and eating disorders

A study published in International Journal of Eating Disorders found a surprising link between bullying and eating disorders, with victims and bullies alike at increased risk. Children who were victims of bullying had nearly twice the risk of displaying symptoms of anorexia and bulimia compared to those not involved in bullying.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateNov 16, 2015

New guideline for treating acne in children and adults

A new guideline updates previous guidance on treating acne in children and adults, emphasizing early diagnosis, active lesion treatment, and prevention of sequelae. The guideline recommends targeted treatments for three types of acne presentations, including comedonal, mild-to-moderate papulopustular, and severe inflammatory acne.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 16, 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.

Study: Earth's climate more sensitive to CO2 than previously thought

Scientists discovered that CO2 levels 50 million years ago were nearly half the predicted 1,125 ppm, indicating a greater sensitivity to greenhouse warming. This new data challenges previous estimates and suggests a more severe climate change impact if CO2 levels reach that threshold.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalGeology·DateNov 16, 2015

Scientists fill in the gaps of human hunter-gatherer history

Researchers sequenced ancient genomes from Late Upper Palaeolithic period, revealing a new strand of European hunter-gatherer ancestry. The discovery provides insights into the genetic history of modern populations in Europe and beyond.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 16, 2015

Long-term effects of common pesticides on aquatic species

Research reveals that pesticide mixtures negatively affect snail and crustacean populations, even at sublethal levels, and populations exposed to low concentrations may be more sensitive to other environmental stressors

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateNov 16, 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.

The all-rounder among supercomputers

JURECA's massive computing power of 2.2 quadrillion operations per second enables researchers in life sciences, earth system sciences, and other fields to tackle complex issues. The system's flexibility allows for various applications, including brain research, medicine, and materials research.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·DateNov 16, 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.

Insights into the evolution of praying mantis camouflage

Researchers discovered two evolutionary shifts in praying mantis camouflage, with a recent shift triggered by the re-evolution of important leg lobes. This suggests that developmental mechanisms controlling crypsis features may be more ancient than the species themselves.

SourceWiley·JournalSystematic Entomology·DateNov 16, 2015

Study finds honesty varies significantly between countries

A study by University of East Anglia researchers found that people's honesty varies significantly between countries, with estimated dishonesty ranging from 3.4% in the UK to 70% in China. The study also suggests that honesty is less important to a country's current economic growth than during earlier periods in history.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·DateNov 15, 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.

Streamlining mobile image processing

Researchers developed a system that sends highly compressed images to servers, which then process the images and send back modified files with reduced bandwidth consumption. The technique reduces bandwidth usage by over 98% and energy consumption by up to 85%, making it ideal for mobile image processing applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 13, 2015

Strong odor challenge of mercaptans

A new palladium-based catalyst has been developed to efficiently convert thiols, the source of strong-smelling mercaptans, into stable and useful vinyl thioethers. The catalyst enables the atom-economic synthesis of these monomers with high yield and selectivity.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Catalysis·DateNov 13, 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.

Have an apple-shaped body? You may be more susceptible to binge eating

A new study from Drexel University found that women with greater fat stores in their midsections reported being less satisfied with their bodies and were more likely to develop loss-of-control eating. The researchers suggest that targeting individuals with centralized fat distribution could be beneficial for preventing eating disorders.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 13, 2015

How DNA and a supercomputer can help sustain honey bee populations

Researchers used DNA sequencing and a supercomputer to analyze pollen from beehives, identifying key plants bees rely on. The multi-locus metabarcoding approach provides quantitative measurements of plant proportions, helping to enhance landscapes and sustain robust bee populations.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateNov 13, 2015

Irradiated anthrax can be sequenced -- fast!

Scientists have developed a fast method to sequence irradiated anthrax spores, which can aid in tracking biocrimes. The new approach uses computer programming to reconstruct full DNA sequences from broken fragments.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateNov 13, 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.

Invasive freshwater species in Europe's lakes and rivers: How do they come in?

The study highlights the main pathways of alien species introduction in European lakes and rivers, including escape from aquaculture facilities and pet/aquarium trade releases. It emphasizes the need for stricter regulation and control measures to mitigate these threats and achieve the Aichi Biodiversity Target 9.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalAquatic Invasions·DateNov 13, 2015

Large study sums up health issues for new child refugees to US

A large-scale study of newly arrived refugee children in the US has identified key public health concerns, including hepatitis B, tuberculosis, and parasitic worms. The study suggests that existing medical screening guidelines remain relevant but recommends further analysis and resource allocation for refugee populations.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 13, 2015

Hackers gonna hack: UH Gets $2.6 million to protect next-gen 911 centers

The University of Houston is developing technology to help protect emergency response systems, such as current and next-generation 911 systems, against Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. The team aims to develop low-cost mitigation strategies to strengthen the resilience of emergency response systems.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 13, 2015

Loss of diversity near melting coastal glaciers

Research divers have found that sedimentation is impacting an entire ecosystem on the seafloor due to melting glaciers. This has led to a decline in species diversity among benthos, with some species being extremely sensitive to higher sedimentation rates and subsequently dying out.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 13, 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.

Living liver donors satisfied with donation process says study

A study of living liver donors found that most donors were highly satisfied with the donation process and reported improved health outcomes. The study's results suggest that living liver donation is a positive experience for donors, with 97% indicating they would donate again.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateNov 13, 2015

Parasitic fungi and the battle against coffee rust disease

Researchers have identified more than 300 species of fungi living on coffee leaves, including 15 likely fungal parasites that could be used to combat coffee rust disease. The study suggests using natural enemies to prevent the spread of the disease rather than relying on chemical control.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateNov 13, 2015
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

3-D printing aids in understanding food enjoyment

Researchers used a 3D printed model of the human airway to study how airflow affects the transfer of volatile particles from the back of the mouth to the nasal cavity. They found that slow, steady breathing optimizes the delivery of these particles, leading to better food enjoyment.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2015

Seniors expend as much energy as Tour de France cyclists

Researchers found that well-trained seniors can expend as much energy as elite athletes during maximal physical exertion. The study, conducted by the University of Copenhagen, revealed that seniors can perform at near-maximum rates for longer periods than expected.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 13, 2015

Sea ice plays a pivotal role in the Arctic methane cycle

The Arctic Ocean is a significant source of atmospheric methane due to interactions between the atmosphere, sea ice, and ocean. The study found that sea ice can be a source of methane, releasing it into the atmosphere during melting and freezing processes.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 13, 2015

Super environmentally friendly: The 'fool's gold' battery

Researchers at Empa have created a 'fool's gold' battery using magnesium and pyrite, offering safe, durable, and affordable storage. The battery has withstood 40 charging cycles without compromising performance.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateNov 13, 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.

Lasers could rapidly make materials hotter than the Sun

Researchers from Imperial College London have discovered a method to heat ions directly using high-intensity lasers, potentially leading to faster and more efficient fusion reactions. The technique, which uses electrostatic shockwaves to accelerate ions, could be used at many laser facilities worldwide.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2015

Scientists sniff out female mouse scents that make males frisky

Researchers identified two chemical scents in female mouse urine that arouse sexual behavior in males, providing insight into mouse pheromones controlling behavior. The chemicals, waste products of steroid metabolism, were found to mimic the increased interest shown by males towards female urine.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateNov 13, 2015

Not so happy old age?

A recent study published in Psychology and Aging suggests that depressive symptoms continue to increase throughout old age, contrary to previous studies which only examined the issue up to age 85. The research found that levels of physical impairment, medical conditions, and death's approach significantly contribute to these increases.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateNov 13, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Lucentis proves effective against proliferative diabetic retinopathy

A clinical trial has found that ranibizumab (Lucentis) is highly effective in treating proliferative diabetic retinopathy, with patients showing improved central vision and reduced risk of surgery compared to laser therapy. The study also suggests that Lucentis may help prevent diabetic macular edema.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalJAMA·DateNov 13, 2015

Network analysis shows systemic risk in mineral markets

A new study examines trade flows of 71 mineral commodities between 107 countries and finds that regional shortages of essential minerals can lead to cascading shocks and instabilities in the global market. The research proposes policy measures, such as commodity risk taxes, to create more stable markets.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 13, 2015