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Science News Archive September 2015 - Page 29


Page 29 of 35

Ocean acidification weighing heavily upon marine algae

Reduced skeletal calcification in marine algae leads to impaired performance, threatening ecosystem balance. The study reveals a significant impact on material stiffness and flexibility, with even small changes causing substantial drops in ability to resist loads.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 8, 2015

Nature: Study creates cell immunity to parasite that infects 50 million

Researchers discovered a way to create cell immunity to the E. histolytica parasite by silencing specific genes involved in potassium transport. This approach could lead to the development of new drugs targeting the parasite and preventing deadly diseases.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 8, 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.

Out of the fire, into the light

A groundbreaking Australian pilot project, led by Martina McGrath, will provide a unique, non-clinical approach to care for suicidal persons. The Suicide Attempt Survivors Support Group will inject hope, connectedness, inclusion, and purpose into the lives of those struggling with suicidal thoughts.

SourceGriffith University·DateSep 8, 2015

Japanese paper art inspires new 3-D fabrication method

Researchers at Northwestern University and the University of Illinois have developed a new assembly method that uses strategic 'Kirigami cuts' to create complex 3D structures out of silicon and other materials. The technique enables the production of mostly closed 3D shapes with limited ability to achieve spatially extended devices.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2015

Study finds high prevalence of diabetes, pre-diabetes in US

The study found that approximately half of the US adult population has either diabetes or pre-diabetes, with a higher prevalence among non-Hispanic black and Hispanic participants. The prevalence of total diabetes increased significantly over the past few decades, but rates have plateaued in recent years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 8, 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.

Smoke-free zones, higher taxes deter youth smoking, study shows

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that smoke-free zones reduce the odds of teens starting to smoke by one-third, while tax hikes lead to a 3% drop in smoking initiation. The researchers also found that current smokers smoked fewer days per month under smoke-free laws.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 8, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cod bones from Mary Rose reveal globalized fish trade in Tudor England

New research reveals that the Mary Rose's cod provisions were sourced from distant waters, including the northern North Sea and Icelandic fisheries. The findings suggest a globalized fish trade played a significant role in the growth of the English navy during the Tudor period.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateSep 8, 2015

Thinking people are born fat or born thin is bad for your health

A recent study published in Health Education and Behavior found that individuals who believe their weight is determined by DNA tend to make unhealthy food choices and engage in less exercise as they age. This association was observed across both men and women, with the relationship differing by age.

SourceSAGE·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateSep 8, 2015

Genome mining effort discovers 19 new natural products in 4 years

Researchers at the University of Illinois have successfully isolated 19 unique phosphonate natural products, including those with antibiotic properties, using genome mining. The discovery could potentially lead to new treatments for diseases such as malaria and other bacterial infections.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

Brain damage during stroke may point to source of addiction

Studies suggest that the insular cortex, damaged during a stroke, can lead to increased likelihood of quitting smoking and reduced withdrawal symptoms. Smokers who experienced strokes in this area were almost twice as likely to quit smoking compared to those with strokes in other parts of the brain.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAddiction·DateSep 8, 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.

Southern California wildfires show split personalities

A new study reveals that Southern California wildfires have two distinct personalities, with Santa Ana winds-driven fires being more damaging due to faster spread, urban burns, and higher economic losses. Climate change is expected to fan flames for the region, increasing fire risk from hot summers.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 8, 2015

Delayed effects of oil spill compromise long-term fish survival

Research shows low-level oil exposure leads to later heart defects, weaker swimming, and reduced survival in Alaskan fish populations. Subtle changes in heart formation have delayed but important consequences for first-year survival, determining the long-term abundance of wild fish populations.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 8, 2015

A new molecule is found to prevent preterm birth

Researchers discovered a new molecule, 101.10, that effectively prevents inflammation-induced uterine contractions and premature delivery without harming the fetus or mother. The study is a significant step towards preventing prematurity, the world's leading cause of infant death.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateSep 8, 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.

Personalized medicine's success needs accurate classification of tumors

The new 2015 WHO Classification of Lung Tumors provides standard criteria for pathology diagnosis and clinical practice. The updated classification focuses on histologic subtyping and classification according to predominant subtype, leading to multiple new discoveries in lung adenocarcinoma.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateSep 8, 2015

Many childhood brain tumor survivors experience seizures

Seizures are a common occurrence in childhood brain tumor survivors, affecting 24% at the start and 14% on an ongoing basis. Certain factors such as tumor type and extent of surgery contribute to seizure risk, impacting treatment management.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateSep 8, 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.

Researchers find new clue to halting leukemia relapse

Researchers have discovered a new molecule that can target the STAT3 protein, which interferes with chemotherapy in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. The molecule, MM-206, locates and attacks a previously unknown binding site on STAT3, disrupting its disease-promoting effects.

SourceRice University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 8, 2015

Ocean waves may hold secret to efficient renewable energy

University of Cincinnati quantum chemistry researcher Thomas Beck develops new methods to calculate the thermodynamics of ion hydration, leading to more efficient renewable energy devices. His findings have garnered international respect and recognition from top physicists.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateSep 8, 2015

New findings shed light on fundamental process of DNA repair

Researchers at Rockefeller University have made new discoveries about the DNA repair process, uncovering previously unknown functions of histone H2AX. They found that a specific portion of the protein interacts with phosphorylated H2AX, facilitating the repair of double-stranded breaks in DNA.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 8, 2015

Biomarker helps predict survival time in gastric cancer patients

Researchers found that microRNA 506 acts as a tumor suppressor in gastric cancer, inhibiting angiogenesis and metastasis. Patients with high miR-506 expression have significantly longer survival times compared to those with low expression levels.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateSep 8, 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.

ACA linked with improvement in chronic disease management

A new study found that people with health insurance are more likely to have their chronic conditions correctly diagnosed and under control. If half of nonelderly uninsured Americans gain health insurance, an estimated 1.5 million newly insured individuals will be diagnosed with one or more conditions.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 8, 2015

Fine particulate matter associated with slight increased mortality in Houston

Research from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston found a slight increase in mortality risk associated with fine particulate matter in the air. The study analyzed PM2.5 components and found that ammonium, nitrate, sulfate, and vanadium were most strongly linked to increased mortality risk, especially during winter ...

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateSep 8, 2015

Psychedelic therapy re-emerging for anxiety, PTSD and addiction

Recent small studies suggest psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin may help reduce anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and alcohol addiction. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine clinical application.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 8, 2015

Keeping older muscles strong

Researchers at the University of Iowa have identified a protein that causes age-related muscle weakness and loss. They also discovered two natural compounds, found in apples and green tomatoes, which reduce this protein's activity and can restore muscle mass and strength.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 8, 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.

Researchers identify mechanism that impairs blood flow with aging

Researchers have identified an age-related cause of arterial dysfunction, finding that older arteries have fewer sensory nerves and are less sensitive to a key neurotransmitter. This discovery could lead to future treatments for age-related vascular diseases such as stroke and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateSep 8, 2015

Canadian Researchers answer important scientific debate connected to heart disease

Researchers from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and Oxford University found that multiple common genetic variants contribute to heart disease, rather than a few rare variants. They identified 202 genetic variants in 129 gene regions that explain approximately 23% of coronary heart disease's heritability.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa Heart Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 8, 2015

Ants on the march in non-native conifer forests

A species of ant, the northern hairy wood ant (Formica lugubris), is thriving in newly formed coniferous forests in the North York Moors National Park. The ant's population has expanded into these plantations, suggesting they provide a suitable habitat for this forest specialist species.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateSep 8, 2015

HIV self-testing (HIVST) found safe, acceptable, and accurate

A community-based prospective study in Blantyre, Malawi found that HIV self-testing (HIVST) was widely accepted and accurate, with 94.6% of participants reporting high satisfaction. The study also showed that HIVST led to a low incidence of partner violence and suicides, and agreed with repeat HTC results in 99.4% of cases.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 8, 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.

Using a human voice in social media has a positive effect on company reputation

A study found that companies presenting a human voice on social media improve their corporate reputation, with customers having a more positive view. The researchers conducted a two-year longitudinal study and surveyed over 3,500 participants to reach this conclusion.

SourceInternational Communication Association·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateSep 8, 2015

Molting elephant seals add mercury to coastal seawater

Researchers found that elephant seals shed significant amounts of mercury during molting, resulting in high concentrations of the toxic metal in coastal waters. The study reveals a previously unrecognized source of mercury contamination in coastal waters, highlighting the need for further monitoring and mitigation efforts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 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.

Estrogen, shrubbery, and the sex ratio of suburban frogs

A Yale study reveals that suburban ponds experience a gender revolution due to elevated levels of estrogen in shrubbery and lawn areas. The research shows that female frogs outnumber males, likely caused by endocrine disruption from phytoestrogens produced by plants commonly found in lawns.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2015

Silicon nanoparticle is a new candidate for an ultrafast all-optical transistor

Physicists have developed a single silicon nanoparticle as an ultrafast all-optical transistor, enabling ultrafast switching and promising for optical computing. The study found that the nanoparticle's properties can be dramatically changed by irradiating it with intense laser pulses, allowing for control of light scattering direction.

SourceITMO University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 7, 2015

Molecular bodyguards for immature membrane proteins

Scientists at University of Basel have shown how chaperones stabilize immature bacterial membrane protein FhuA and guide it in the right folding direction, preventing misfolding. This discovery has significant implications for diseases caused by misfolded proteins like Alzheimer's and cystic fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 7, 2015

Researchers in Basel develop ideal single-photon source

Physicists at the University of Basel have created a new type of light source that emits identical single photons, a crucial step towards quantum information technology. The breakthrough uses a semiconductor quantum dot to control nuclear spin, allowing for indistinguishable photons.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 7, 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.

Policy recommendations for use of telemedicine in primary care

The American College of Physicians recommends policies for the use of telemedicine in primary care settings, aiming to improve access to care while balancing benefits and risks. The position paper offers more than a dozen policy statements and recommendations for utilization and reimbursement.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 7, 2015

Dangerous bacterial enzymes become important tools for protein chemistry

A Umeå University research group has identified two bacterial enzymes that can be used to modify proteins for use in medical drugs. The AnkX-Lem3 system allows for the addition and removal of a phosphocholine moiety, enabling fine-tuned control over protein function.

SourceUmea University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 7, 2015

2015 International Balzan Prizes awarded to 3 Americans

Three American scientists have been awarded the prestigious International Balzan Prizes for their outstanding contributions to the fields of art history, economic history, astroparticle physics, and oceanography. Hans Belting, Joel Mokyr, Francis Halzen, and David Karl will share a total prize amount of $3 million.

SourceGold Communications·DateSep 7, 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.

Nanoparticles -- small but unique

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new experimental approach called plasmonic nanospectroscopy to study individual nanoparticles. This method reveals significant differences in properties between seemingly identical particles, which could lead to improved hydrogen sensors for fuel cell cars.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 7, 2015

Mobile phone records may predict epidemics of mosquito-borne dengue virus

A new study uses mobile phone records to predict the geographical spread and timing of dengue epidemics, providing critical early warning to policymakers. The model accurately forecasts outbreaks in locations of recent epidemics and emerging trouble spots, enabling national control programs to plan in near real time.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2015

Indications of the origin of the Spin Seebeck effect discovered

Scientists found thermally excited magnetic waves generate electricity in insulators with thin metallic layers. This breakthrough explains the Spin Seebeck effect, enabling heat recovery and conversion into electrical energy.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 7, 2015

Is old rock really as 'solid as a rock'?

Researchers used data from the Earth's gravity field, topography, seismology, and crustal structure to create a 3D model of the North American craton. The study found that the lower part of the craton's root has shifted by approximately 850 kilometers towards the west-southwest due to mantle flow.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 7, 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.