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Science News Archive November 2015 - Page 7


Page 7 of 35

Blood sugar levels in response to foods are highly individual

A recent study monitored 800 participants' blood sugar levels in response to over 46,000 meals, revealing highly individual responses to different foods. The researchers developed an algorithm predicting individualized responses based on lifestyle and microbiome analysis, which was successfully applied to new participants.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell·DateNov 23, 2015

Using light-force to study single molecules

Scientists at EPFL show how a light-induced force can push the capabilities of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) even further. They overcame limitations by amplifying molecular vibrations with light, increasing sensitivity and resolution.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 23, 2015

Army ants build bridges to shorten journeys through the rainforest

Army ants construct complex bridges from their own bodies to span gaps and create shortcuts in the floor of the tropical forests of Central America. These living bridges are made up of dozens of ants and can assemble and disassemble in a matter of seconds.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 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.

ACP recommends generics over branded meds

The American College of Physicians recommends prescribing generic medications whenever possible to reduce costs and improve adherence to therapy. Generic medications are as effective as their branded counterparts, but underuse is a significant issue due to misconceptions about safety and efficacy.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015

Nanomagnets: Creating order out of chaos

Researchers from HZDR and TU Dresden have developed a method to fabricate nanomagnets in an iron-aluminum alloy layer without masks. The use of highly focused ion beams enables the generation of complex magnetic geometries suitable for spintronic device applications.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 23, 2015

New species of early anthropoid primate found amid Libyan strife

A team of researchers from the University of Kansas has discovered a previously unknown species of early anthropoid primate, Apidium zuetina, in the Libyan desert. The find provides evidence that climate change and environmental conditions played a significant role in shaping the evolution of these primates.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateNov 23, 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 can grind mountains faster than they can be rebuilt

Erosion caused by glaciation during ice ages can wear down mountains faster than plate tectonics can build them, according to a new study. The research, conducted over more than a decade, revealed that erosion rates accelerated sharply about 1 million years ago when global climate cooling triggered stronger and more persistent ice ages.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

A tick that feeds on birds may increase the range of Lyme disease

Researchers found Ixodes affinis parasitizing five songbird species in southeastern Virginia, increasing the tick's range and potential for Lyme disease transmission. The study suggests that having two competent tick vectors may lead to an increase in Lyme disease cases.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateNov 23, 2015

Canada must respect physician objectors who do not wish to refer patients for assisted death: Right to die

Physicians' conscientious objections to assisted death will be respected in Canada, with a system created to allow patients to receive medical support for dying while vulnerable patients and caregivers fight their doctors for rights. A direct service will be offered to patients, and physicians informed of the service.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 23, 2015

Want to remember new names? Sleep on it

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that a full night of sleep significantly improved participants' ability to correctly identify the name associated with a face. The study suggests that sleep after new learning activities may help improve memory, regardless of age.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNeurobiology of Learning and Memory·DateNov 23, 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.

New mechanisms of self-organization in living cells

Researchers at MSU have discovered the mechanisms of self-organization in living cells, revealing the role of topologically associated domains (TADs) in compacting DNA into three-dimensional structures. This knowledge may lead to new approaches for understanding and treating diseases related to gene regulation.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalGenome Research·DateNov 23, 2015

Online porn may feed sex addicts' desire for new sexual images

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that people with compulsive sexual behavior seek out new sexual images more frequently than others. They are also more susceptible to environmental cues linked to sexual images, which can trigger their addiction.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateNov 23, 2015

Bivalve family tree offers evolutionary clues

A team of scientists has constructed the most complete look at the evolutionary family tree of cardiid bivalves, including clams and cockles. The study reveals that much of their diversification was localized over time and that some species need to be re-classified.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateNov 23, 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.

A row-bot that loves dirty water

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a row-bot that can operate indefinitely in remote locations by harnessing energy from dirty water. The robot's bio-inspired mechanism allows it to feed on nutrient-rich water, generating electricity through microbial fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateNov 23, 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.

New access to the interior of electronic components

A team of researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum has developed a method to control the interior of transistors by applying resonators at terahertz frequencies. This allows for manipulation of ultra-thin electron layers, enabling new applications in sensors and chemical technology.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 23, 2015

New protein biomarker identifies damaged brain wiring after concussion

Researchers have discovered a blood test for the SNTF protein, which may predict long-term cognitive impairments in concussion patients. The study suggests that even mild concussions can cause permanent damage to brain wiring, leading to cognitive impairment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateNov 23, 2015

Infants under 12 months most at risk of physical abuse

A large study found that infants under 12 months are most at risk of serious physical abuse, with severe injuries leading to a threefold increase in mortality compared to other types of trauma. The majority (98%) of abused children were under 5 years old, and nearly all (76%) were less than 1 year old.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·DateNov 23, 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.

Laboratory study: Scientists explore a new approach to prevent newborn epilepsies

Researchers discovered that treating newborn mice with bumetanide can almost completely prevent the disease progression and allow them to develop normally. The study suggests that timing is crucial, as treatment within the first two postnatal weeks can normalize brain activity and behavior.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015

Beavers restore dead wood in boreal forests

Researchers found that beaver dams create dead wood hotspots, increasing quantities of standing and deciduous dead wood. This restoration benefits a large number of species, including those dependent on these resources.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateNov 23, 2015

Forecasting the path of breast cancer in a patient

The study found that cancer metastasis is neither random nor unpredictable, with survival depending on the location of the first metastatic site. Breast cancer patients who developed metastasis in specific organs had significantly different chances of long-term survival.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalBreast Cancer·DateNov 23, 2015

Higher resting heart rate linked to increased risk of death from all causes

A higher resting heart rate is associated with a greater risk of death from all causes, independent of traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors. Research published in CMAJ found that every 10 beats/min increment of resting heart rate increases the risk by 9% for all-cause mortality and 8% for cardiovascular mortality.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 23, 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.

Earth not due for a geomagnetic flip in the near future

A new MIT study found that Earth's geomagnetic field intensity is double the long-term historical average, indicating it has a long way to fall before reaching an unstable level. This suggests that the current field intensity has a long buffer zone, making a reversal less likely in the near future.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

New research suggests a novel route in the fight against cancer

Researchers at the University of Surrey have discovered a new link between gene regulation and metabolism in baker's yeast and roundworms. The findings, published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, could lead to more effective therapies for diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 23, 2015

Early childhood bronchiolitis increases asthma risk in adulthood

A study found that children who had bronchiolitis in early childhood are more likely to develop asthma by age 28-31 and experience reduced health-related quality of life. Lung function tests also show signs of irreversible airway obstruction, a risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPediatric Allergy and Immunology·DateNov 23, 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.

No lens? No problem for FlatCam

Researchers developed patented prototypes of FlatCam, a thin sensor chip that processes sensor measurements into images and videos. The technology decouples the parameters of light collection and device thickness, enabling large sensors with thin devices.

SourceRice University·DateNov 23, 2015

'Connector hubs' are the champions of brain coordination

Research identifies 'connector hubs' as the brain's 'champions of coordination,' allowing distinct networks to interact effectively and process more information during complex tasks. The findings have implications for understanding neurological disorders like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 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.

Climate study finds evidence of global shift in the 1980s

A global climate shift occurred in the late 1980s, triggered by anthropogenic warming and a volcanic eruption, resulting in significant changes in Earth's biophysical systems. The study found a 60% increase in winter river flow and a 400% increase in wildfires in the Western United States.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 23, 2015

How the Earth's Pacific plates collapsed

Researchers have found distinctive rocks formed when the Pacific plate changed direction and plunged under the Philippine Sea Plate 50 million years ago. The discovery sheds new light on the formation of copper and gold deposits, as well as the mechanism behind massive earthquakes and volcanoes.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 23, 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.

'Sport shoppers' bargain hunt simply for the thrill of it, new research finds

Researchers identify sport shoppers as female customers who seek thrills in finding discounts, remembering stories behind bargain items and employing strategy to optimize shopping trips. This new profile provides valuable insight for retailers to target this distinct customer segment.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·DateNov 23, 2015

Stretchy slabs found in the deep Earth

Researchers found that a deep-seated slab beneath Peru's Nazca Plate deforms easily during subduction, weakening its internal structure. The study sheds new light on the behavior of oceanic slabs in the Earth's interior.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 23, 2015

City-wide effort boosts NYC's colorectal cancer screening rates

A city-wide coalition launched by NYC DOHMH and Mount Sinai resulted in a 40% increase in colorectal cancer screening rates over four years. Screening rates rose from 42% in 2003 to 62% in 2007, with significant reductions in disparities based on ethnicity.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCancer·DateNov 23, 2015

Johnson announces £20 million for manufacturing hubs

The UK has announced a £20 million investment for two manufacturing research Hubs, addressing key challenges and seizing opportunities in the sector. The Hubs will focus on commercializing early-stage research in engineering and physical sciences, with potential impacts on industries such as automotive and healthcare.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateNov 23, 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.

Penn biologists characterize new form of mRNA regulation

Biologists at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a new way that messenger RNA is regulated, which affects the production of proteins. The study found that modified mRNAs are more likely to be involved in stress responses and cell cycle control, suggesting a mechanism for dynamic regulation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateNov 23, 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.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Rick become a post-tropical low

Tropical Storm Rick weakened into a post-tropical cyclone, with NASA's RapidScat instrument detecting strongest winds on its eastern side. The remnant low is expected to dissipate in a few days, with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 23, 2015

To save the earth, better nitrogen use on a hungrier planet must be addressed

A study suggests that increasing nitrogen use efficiency globally can improve crop yields while reducing nitrous oxide emissions and other forms of nitrogen pollution. Researchers propose specific targets for different regions to achieve a global average nitrogen use efficiency of 70% by 2050.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2015

TSRI scientists reveal potential treatment for life-threatening viral infections

Scientists from TSRI have shown how a previously unknown process promotes infection in dangerous viruses, such as dengue, West Nile, and Ebola. They also point to an experimental antibiotic called duramycin that inhibits infection by these deadly viruses, all of which lack vaccines and treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 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.