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Science News Archive October 2015 - Page 3


Page 3 of 38

Low testosterone, men's empathy can determine parenting skills

A new University of Michigan study found that low testosterone in fathers is associated with less sensitive parenting. Men who are more empathetic and have a loving relationship with their infant's mother exhibit nurturing fathering behavior. This can impact young children's social, emotional, and cognitive development positively.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalDevelopmental Psychobiology·DateOct 29, 2015

Low-fat diet not most effective in long-term weight loss

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that low-fat interventions were no more successful than higher-fat interventions in achieving and maintaining weight loss for periods longer than one year. Low-carbohydrate weight loss interventions resulted in greater weight loss compared to low-fat diets.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateOct 29, 2015

What blocks pro-vaccine beliefs?

Researchers identify cognitive barriers that hinder pro-vaccination views, including the need for trust in medicine and government. They argue that transparency and efficient science communication can increase public trust in vaccination.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateOct 29, 2015

Study led by Temple researchers showcases potential new oral treatment for IBD

A recent study by Temple researchers found that a protein isolated from bacterial biofilms, known as curli, can effectively relieve intestinal inflammation in animals. The results suggest that curli could be a novel immunotherapy for inflammatory bowel disease, offering a new treatment option for patients.

SourceTemple University Health System·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·DateOct 29, 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 design points a path to the 'ultimate' battery

Scientists have developed a working laboratory demonstrator of a lithium-oxygen battery with very high energy density, exceeding 90% efficiency, and over 2000 recharges. The breakthrough relies on a highly porous graphene electrode and additives altering chemical reactions for improved stability and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2015

Mummified seals reveal ecological impact of ice change

Researchers analyzed over 500 mummified seal remains to understand the impact of changing ice conditions on their diet and ecology. Crabeater seals showed little isotopic change, while Weddell seals underwent a shift in dietary values, indicating adaptations to a changing environment.

SourceSociety of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateOct 29, 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.

Fossil could redefine evolutionary split between monkeys and apes

A recent discovery of a small-bodied ape in Spain shares features of both catarrhines and great apes, suggesting that the last common ancestor of all apes may have been less great ape-like than previously assumed. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of hominoid evolution.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2015

Unraveling the mysteries of 2 ancient parasites

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati uncovered ancient parasites on marine animals, including snails and worm-like creatures. The parasitic interactions between crinoids and these organisms reveal complex adaptations and co-evolutionary relationships over hundreds of millions of years.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateOct 29, 2015

To scratch an itch is a hairy problem

Researchers at the Salk Institute have found evidence of a dedicated neural pathway that transmits the itchy feeling triggered by light touch. The study sheds light on potential mechanisms of chronic itch and may help explain why some people are unresponsive to antihistamine drugs.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Warming waters contributed to the collapse of New England's cod fishery

A new report by the National Science Foundation links rapid warming of ocean waters to the collapse of New England's cod fishery. The study found that increasing water temperatures reduced cod production and increased mortality of young fish, leading to a decline in sustainable stock levels.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2015

Male/female brain differences? Big data says not so much

A meta-analysis of structural MRI volumes found no significant difference in hippocampal size between men and women. The study challenges common claims about sex differences in the brain, citing minimal differences in key areas such as emotional expressiveness, verbal memory, and brain communication.

SourceRosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science·JournalNeuroImage·DateOct 29, 2015

Factor found to balance medically useful stem cell qualities

A study led by Mount Sinai researchers identifies zinc finger protein 217 (ZFP217) as a factor that regulates stem cell self-renewal and differentiation, potentially balancing medically useful qualities for therapeutic applications. The discovery builds on understanding epigenetic mechanisms controlling gene expression.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 29, 2015

Bright idea for lowlight photography

University of Utah engineers develop a new color filter that lets in three times more light than conventional filters, resulting in cleaner and more accurate pictures taken in lowlight. The filter can be used for smartphone cameras and industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalOptica·DateOct 29, 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.

Caught in the act: New wasp species emerging

A study from Rice University and colleagues found that evolutionary changes in a native North American fruit fly are driving the emergence of three new wasp species, which exploit new habitats created by the changing fruit fly populations.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2015

Achilles tendon ruptures missed in 1 of 4 cases, but surgery not needed for most

Most Achilles tendon ruptures can be effectively treated with conservative methods, including rest and physical therapy, before considering surgery. For acute tears in young or active patients, surgical intervention may be necessary to prevent re-rupture and promote quicker recovery.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateOct 29, 2015

The key to drilling wells with staying power in the developing world

Researchers found that World Vision's community-led approach, which integrates local committees and fee collection, significantly increases well functionality. Nearly 80% of Wells drilled by World Vision remain operational after over two decades with proper maintenance and repair.

SourceWorld Vision·JournalWater Resources Research·DateOct 29, 2015

Spirals in dust around young stars may betray presence of massive planets

Astronomers suggest that large spiral patterns in circumstellar disks around young stars may indicate the presence of giant unseen planets. Computer simulations support this idea by showing how gas-and-dust disks evolve and how planets can modify disk structures, revealing their mass and position.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 29, 2015

Transplanted human umbilical cord blood cells may offer therapy for Alzheimer's sufferers

Researchers have found that transplanted human umbilical cord blood cells migrate to brain tissue and remain active for up to 30 days, without promoting tumor growth. The study suggests that these cells may confer therapeutic effects through modulation of the inflammatory response associated with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateOct 29, 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.

Dartmouth researchers shed light on protein-related diseases

Researchers found that certain proteins undergo a transition from liquid droplets to toxic, fibrous solids on their way to becoming harmful. Cells may use this liquid state for normal physiology, but under certain conditions the proteins can transition again.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 29, 2015

Follow your heart as you pursue your career

A new Tel Aviv University study suggests that following one's heart can lead to greater job satisfaction and personal fulfillment. The research found that young people with strong callings are more likely to take risks and achieve success in their chosen fields, regardless of their inherent talent.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateOct 29, 2015

New insight into how neurons regulate their activity

Researchers found that axon initial segment (AIS) plasticity can occur quickly, influencing neuronal firing responses. After 3 hours of elevated activity, the AIS was shortened by approximately 25%, but did not immediately lead to reduced excitability.

SourceKing's College London·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 29, 2015

Who mothers mommy?

A study by Arizona State University researchers found that four factors - unconditional acceptance, feeling comforted when needed, authenticity in relationships, and friendship satisfaction - play a crucial role in keeping mothers happy, healthy, and able to give of themselves. The study, which surveyed over 2,000 well-educated, upper-...

SourceArizona State University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateOct 29, 2015

No need to stop antidepressants before plastic surgery, evidence suggests

Research review finds no consistent evidence that antidepressants increase bleeding, breast cancer, or other adverse outcomes in patients undergoing plastic surgery. However, the underlying depression may pose a risk to postoperative problems. Plastic surgeons should consider the impact of depression on surgical complications.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateOct 29, 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.

Receptors: It takes a dimer to bind

Prof. Ichiro Maruyama's rotation model suggests that receptors exist as dimers prior to ligand binding, regulating activity and flexibility upon binding. This new model challenges the traditional dimerization theory, offering a more energy-efficient explanation for receptor activation.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalBioEssays·DateOct 29, 2015

Pixelated plants shed light on cell size control

Research at the John Innes Centre reveals that plant stem cells actively regulate their size to develop organs properly. The study shows that maintaining uniform cell sizes is crucial for organ formation, similar to pixel sizes in digital images.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 29, 2015

A new primate species at the root of the tree of extant hominoids

Researchers describe a new genus and species, Pliobates cataloniae, with characteristics similar to extant hominoids, overturning previous theories on gibbon origins. The fossil find provides clues about the origin of extant gibbons and their evolutionary relationships.

SourceInstitut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2015

Possible new explanation for ALS

Researchers discovered a new way in which ALS kills nerve cells by disrupting protein synthesis, highlighting the importance of RNA-binding proteins in disease progression. The study provides a potential key to treating both ALS and dementia.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNeuron·DateOct 29, 2015

Study: Volkswagen's emissions cheat to cause 60 premature deaths in US

A new MIT-led study reveals that Volkswagen's use of software to evade emissions standards will directly contribute to 60 premature deaths across the US. The automaker's excess emissions will also cause 31 cases of chronic bronchitis and 34 hospital admissions, generating $450 million in health expenses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 29, 2015
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.

How to make Web advertising more effective

Researchers found dynamic ads are more attention-grabbing than static ads, but it's not just about attention. Ads with kinetic property influence consumer perceptions of product innovation in products with small improvements, like tablets and smartphones. This effect is strongest in fast-changing industries.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 29, 2015

'Tummy tuck' complications -- Study looks at rates and risk factors

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that abdominoplasty carries a higher complication rate than other cosmetic surgery procedures. Major complications occurred in four percent of patients, with hematomas, infections, blood clots, and lung-related problems being the most common issues.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateOct 29, 2015

Researchers advance understanding of mountain watersheds

Scientists estimate volume of open pore space in subsurface using geophysical surveys and computer models, revealing new theoretical framework for understanding watershed porosity. The study predicts distribution of pore space based on stress in the earth's crust, with implications for streamflow, aquifer systems, and landscape evolution.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 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.

The secret of resistance: Shattering into a thousand pieces

A team of researchers from SISSA investigated the mechanism behind biological tissues' resistance to external strain, discovering that cracks appear in multiple places rather than one. This study aims to create artificial materials with similar features for biomedical applications.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 29, 2015

New class of DNA repair enzyme discovered

Scientists have identified a new class of DNA repair enzyme that can recognize and remove positively charged lesions, including bulky ones. This discovery expands the understanding of DNA damage repair pathways and offers insights into alternative mechanisms for repairing genetic information.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature·DateOct 29, 2015

Satellites shed light on Greenland Ice Sheet response to warming

Researchers found that despite increased ice melt, some areas of the ice sheet have slowed down, reducing sea level forecasts. The discovery was made using satellite data and shows that meltwater can slow glacier movement by producing channels at the base of the ice sheet.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateOct 29, 2015

Allergy is the price we pay for our immunity to parasites

A recent study published in PLOS Computational Biology identifies molecular similarities between environmental allergens and parasitic worm proteins, suggesting that allergy is a flawed immune response. The research provides tools for predicting protein molecules that may cause allergic reactions and could lead to new treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 29, 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.

Long-term aerobic exercise prevents age-related brain changes

A study found that long-term aerobic exercise can prevent structural deterioration associated with old age in mice, improving blood-brain barrier function and reducing inflammation. Exercise was particularly beneficial for animals lacking the Apoe gene, a major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 29, 2015

The cell membrane winds up like a watch

Cell membranes deform when viruses detach and during cell division, thanks to the ESCRT-III protein complex forming a molecular spring. Researchers used high-speed atomic force microscopy to observe the complex's movements in real-time, validating their theoretical models.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell·DateOct 29, 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.

'Ensemble' modeling could lead to better flu forecasts

A research team developed predictive models of flu-like activity combining data from Google, Twitter, EHRs, and crowd-sourced flu data. Ensemble modeling outperforms individual data sources and rivals CDC's retrospective reporting accuracy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 29, 2015

People with MS may be more physically fit than tests indicate, study finds

A study by University of Illinois researchers found participants with MS had significantly higher peak aerobic capacity and muscle strength when using computerized dynamometers and recumbent steppers. This challenges conventional methods that may underestimate participants' capabilities, highlighting the need for more effective exercis...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Neurologic Physical Therapy·DateOct 29, 2015

Extinct ape species resets the scale on humans' ancestors

A newly discovered extinct ape species, Pliobates cataloniae, roamed Earth 11.6 million years ago, providing a missing chapter to the beginning of ape and human history. The fossil discovery forces researchers to reconsider the role of small apes in hominoid evolution.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 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.

Oldest DNA sequences may reveal secrets of ancient animal ancestors

Researchers have discovered highly conserved DNA sequences in non-coding regions of insect genomes, which are remarkably preserved for at least 180 million years. These findings provide new insights into the evolution of ancient animal ancestors and their influence on modern species.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateOct 28, 2015

Researchers compare 'natural' mosquito repellents to DEET

Researchers tested 10 commercially available products for mosquito repellency, finding that DEET-based products were the most effective, while some natural alternatives showed promise, including lemon eucalyptus oil and Victoria's Secret perfume.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateOct 28, 2015

Microbiomes could hold keys to improving life as we know it

A consortium of scientists proposes a Unified Microbiome Initiative to drive cutting-edge microbiome research. Genetic engineering holds the key to harnessing microbes for diverse applications, including fighting antibiotic resistance, reclaiming farmland, and producing sustainable energy.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience·DateOct 28, 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.

SHSU collaborates with fire marshals on forensic death investigations

The program provided a rare chance for participants to experience burn scenarios with controlled variables, yielding professional research-level training results. The five-day course covered fire science, death investigations, and forensic science, culminating in controlled experiments using cadavers.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateOct 28, 2015

Can we unconsciously 'hear' distance?

Researchers at the University of Rochester found that humans can detect and process sound delays as short as 40 milliseconds to fine-tune visual distance estimates. Participants consistently perceived shapes paired with delayed clicks as more distant, even when they were not, suggesting an unconscious link between sound delays and visu...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 28, 2015

Meet the first Iberian lynx on the Iberian Peninsula

The discovery of an ancient Iberian lynx specimen provides new insights into the evolution and origins of this endangered feline species. The fossil remains, dated to 1.6-1.7 million years ago, reveal a larger and heavier body than the modern species.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateOct 28, 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.

Nordic seas cooled 500,000 years before global oceans

The Nordic Seas started cooling towards modern temperatures in the early Pliocene, 5.3 to 2.6 million years ago. This occurred half a million years before the global oceans cooled, according to a new study published in Nature Communications.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2015