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Science News Archive September 2015 - Page 21


Page 21 of 35

'Deadly' maths program sees prime future for Indigenous students

QUT's YuMi Deadly Maths program is expanding to reach more Indigenous students, aiming to improve their understanding of mathematics and increase representation in STEM careers. The program, developed by CSIRO and the BHP Billiton Foundation, uses a unique kinaesthetic approach to learning.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateSep 15, 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.

Understanding nature's most striking colors

Plant cellulose can self-assemble into wrinkled surfaces that produce striking optical effects, such as iridescence and color changes. The researchers found that the twisting structure of cellulose creates a pattern of parallel ridges that split light into its colored components, producing an iridescent sheen.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 15, 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.

Skin microbiome influences common sexually transmitted disease

Researchers found that individuals with distinct skin microbiomes can effectively clear chancroid-causing bacteria. The study suggests that specific bacteria in the skin microbiome may help the immune system clear pathogens, paving the way for potential probiotic therapies.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateSep 15, 2015

A study of antidepressants reveals how treatment helps depression management

Researchers discovered that antidepressant amitriptyline increases FGF2 mRNA expression in astrocytes through RTK activation. This signaling cascade could guide the development of novel antidepressants with new mechanisms. The study expands on previous findings, identifying EGR1 as a necessary protein for FGF2 expression.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·DateSep 15, 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.

Large-scale treatment of parasitic-worm disease cost-effective

A new study suggests that expanding treatment programs to include preschool children and adults is more beneficial, reducing transmission and disability. The study found that a broader scope of treatment would be cost-effective, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $167.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateSep 15, 2015

UT Arlington research will lead to more efficient computer modeling

Researchers at UT Arlington are developing a hybrid software/hardware approach to create highly accurate models of electric motors. The new method aims to reduce the time and expense of modeling prototypes by speeding up model simulations by as much as 1 million times, making it easier to create more efficient motors.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 15, 2015

Molecule made by muscle shown for first time to build bone

Researchers have discovered a molecule produced by skeletal muscle that increases bone mass and strength. This finding has significant implications for treating sarcopenia and osteoporosis, two conditions that often occur together.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2015

Optogenetics: Light switch generates cellular second messenger

Researchers have developed a new optogenetic tool, CyclOp, which produces the second messenger cGMP when exposed to light. This allows for precise control of cellular signals involved in vision, blood pressure regulation and cell death, enabling new studies on signal pathways.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 14, 2015

Drug prevents type 1 diabetes in mice, Stanford study finds

Researchers developed a drug that blocks hyaluronan buildup in pancreatic islets, preventing immune cell infiltration and destruction of insulin-producing cells. The study suggests a potential preventive treatment for type 1 diabetes in humans if initiated before the onset of the disease.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tall and slim: They go together, genetic study shows

A genetic study by University of Queensland researchers found a strong correlation between genes that result in greater height and those that reduce body mass index. The study, published in Nature Genetics, suggests that genetic variation may play a role in creating national differences in disorders such as dementia and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 14, 2015

Video game warnings fall far short in rating tobacco content

A new UC San Francisco study reveals that video game warnings fall short in rating tobacco content, exposing adolescents to more tobacco imagery than thought. The researchers found that only 8% of games received tobacco warnings, despite 42% containing actual tobacco content.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalTobacco Control·DateSep 14, 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.

Combo of 3 antibiotics can kill deadly staph infections

Researchers have developed a combination of three antibiotics that can effectively treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in test tubes and laboratory mice. The synergistic action of the drugs prevents MRSA from developing resistance, offering potential treatment against this deadly pathogen.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 14, 2015

You're not irrational, you're just quantum probabilistic

Researchers at Ohio State University propose a new theoretical approach to psychology based on quantum physics, enabling humans to make decisions in uncertain situations. This approach resolves contradictions among previous studies and provides insight into human behavior, including the effect of survey question order.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateSep 14, 2015

Researchers identify gene that determines bone density and fracture risk

Researchers have identified a genetic variant regulating bone mineral density and fracture risk, which could lead to interventions that prevent fractures in older adults. The study found that the engrailed homeobox-1 gene plays a central role in regulating bone density.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNature·DateSep 14, 2015

NASA's SDO catches a double photobomb

Scientists at NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) have captured the rare alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth. During this event, a partial solar eclipse was visible from parts of Africa and Antarctica, providing a unique opportunity to study the effects of these celestial alignments.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 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.

Crunching numbers to combat cancer

The project aims to create an online cache of molecular data to validate current cancer models and make predictions about the disease. This will enable a collaborative approach to cancer treatment and potentially reduce animal testing in research.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateSep 14, 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.

New method to treat antibiotic resistant MRSA: Bacteriophages

Researchers at Brigham Young University have successfully used bacteriophage to decontaminate human MRSA bacteria from surfaces and fabrics, showing promise in treating the deadly superbug. The findings offer hope in combating antibiotic-resistant MRSA, which can cause serious disease and death.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 14, 2015

Biodiesel made easier and cleaner with waste-recycling catalyst

Researchers at Cardiff University have devised a way of increasing the yield of biodiesel by using the waste left over from its production process. By recycling crude glycerol, they can convert it into methanol, which is then used as a starting reactant to create more biodiesel.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 14, 2015

Discovery of a highly efficient catalyst eases way to hydrogen economy

A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has discovered a highly efficient catalyst that can produce hydrogen using common elements like phosphorus and sulfur. The new catalyst, which is nearly as efficient as platinum, could make a significant impact on the transition to a hydrogen economy.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 14, 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.

Panel releases guide for appropriate use of PICCs

The American College of Physicians released a guide for appropriate use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) to address growing concerns over their use in hospitals. The guide highlights the potential for complications like thrombosis and infection, as well as variation in their use among patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 2015

Long sleep and high blood copper levels go hand in hand

A University of Eastern Finland study found that long sleep duration is associated with high serum copper concentrations, potentially linking it to pro-oxidative stress and chronic diseases like coronary artery disease. This association remained unchanged even when cardiovascular diseases were accounted for.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology·DateSep 14, 2015

Ultrasound provides noninvasive hormone-sparing sterilization for male dogs

A study by Dr. Raffaella Leoci and colleagues found that a specific ultrasound treatment regime can permanently sterilize male dogs without affecting testosterone levels. The method involves three applications of ultrasound at 1 MHz, lasting five minutes, and resulted in significant reduction in testicular volume and degeneration.

SourceParsemus Foundation·JournalReproduction in Domestic Animals·DateSep 14, 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.

Application of new spectroscopy method to capture reactions in photosynthesis

Researchers developed a new spectroscopy method, 2D HYSCORE, to capture the solar water-splitting reaction at the heart of photosynthesis. The study successfully resolved the active site geometry of manganese catalase, a simpler metal-containing protein, and gained insight into the mechanism of photosynthesis.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry·DateSep 14, 2015

IU scientist and collaborators chart a lost highway in the brain

A study suggests that a missing part of the brain, called the vertical occipital fasciculus, may provide a fundamental white matter connection between the visual system's object identification and spatial orientation functions. This 'highway' structure could play a critical role in coordinating information transmission between brain ar...

SourceIndiana University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateSep 14, 2015

Protected areas save mangroves, reduce carbon emissions

Protected areas in Indonesia have preserved 14,000 hectares of mangrove habitat between 2000 and 2010, avoiding 28% of total mangrove loss. This conservation effort has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 13 million metric tons annually.

SourceDuke University·JournalEcological Economics·DateSep 14, 2015

NSF invests $20 million to enhance resilience of critical infrastructure

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has invested $20 million in new fundamental research to transform critical infrastructure and improve resilience. This initiative aims to develop a better understanding of interdependencies and their impacts on infrastructure systems, enabling them to perform sustainably and securely.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateSep 14, 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.

Rating hospital readmissions

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that Medicare's readmission penalties disproportionately affect hospitals serving disadvantaged communities. By adjusting for more comprehensive patient characteristics, the gap in readmission rates between best- and worst-performing hospitals is nearly halved. The researchers propose a...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 2015

UTHealth researcher awarded CDC grant to study Chagas disease in Texas

A UTHealth researcher has received a $544,329 CDC grant to develop region-specific educational materials and implement outreach on Chagas disease in South Texas. Approximately 20-30% of infected persons will enter the chronic phase, which can manifest as heart disease or gastrointestinal issues.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateSep 14, 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.

Lung 'filtering' technique can reduce transplant rejection

Researchers used ex-vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) to recondition poorly functioning lungs, removing donor white blood cells and reducing the risk of acute rejection. This technique can increase access to transplantation and shorten waiting list times.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateSep 14, 2015

Modulation of brain cholesterol: A new line of research in Alzheimer's disease treatment?

A new study reveals a direct relationship between Alzheimer's disease and brain cholesterol levels. Increasing the enzyme CYP46A1 may help eliminate excess cholesterol from the brain, correcting amyloid plaques and degenerated tau protein. This discovery opens up a new line of research for Alzheimer's treatment.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateSep 14, 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.

New ORNL catalyst addresses engine efficiency, emissions quandary

Researchers have developed a new mixed oxide catalyst that overcomes inhibition issues, allowing for more efficient engines to meet stricter emission regulations. The unique formulation of copper oxide, cobalt oxide, and cerium oxide enables better oxidation activity at low temperatures without precious metals.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 14, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Building the electron superhighway

Researchers at the University of Vermont have developed a new method to create an 'electron superhighway' in organic materials, allowing electrons to flow faster and farther. This breakthrough could lead to improved solar cells and flexible electronics with enhanced efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 14, 2015