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Science News Archive September 2015 - Page 35


Page 35 of 35

Magnetic fields provide a new way to communicate wirelessly

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new wireless communication technique that sends magnetic signals through the human body, offering lower power consumption and improved security compared to existing Bluetooth technology. The technique shows promising results with path losses up to 10 million times lower than Bluetooth radios.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 1, 2015

NASA's GPM satellite shows double eye-wall in Hurricane Jimena

Hurricane Jimena is classified as a category 4 storm with maximum sustained winds near 130 mph. The Global Precipitation Measurement satellite detected a double eye-wall structure with evidence of erosion, indicating decay and weakening of the storm's inner eyewall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 1, 2015

Distant planet's interior chemistry may differ from our own

Researchers found that magnesium oxide can react with oxygen under high-pressure conditions, potentially leading to the formation of magnesium peroxide in rocky planets outside our Solar System. This suggests that the interiors of these planets may have a different chemical composition than Earth's mantle.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 1, 2015

Hot electrons point the way to perfect light absorption

Researchers found that ultrashort light pulses become trapped in small areas of rough ultrathin films, leading to efficient light absorption. This discovery can help develop highly efficient absorbers for thin-film solar cells and sensors.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 1, 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.

Can marijuana help transplant patients? New research says maybe

Researchers found that THC delayed skin graft rejection in mice due to suppressed immune response, potentially leading to new antirejection therapies for humans. Further studies are necessary to confirm benefits in humans.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateSep 1, 2015

NIH grants seek best ways to combine genomic information and EHRs

Researchers aim to better understand the genomic basis of diseases and tailor medical care to individual patients based on their unique genetic profiles. The NIH-funded projects will explore the potential medical effects of rare genomic variants in various genes and implement these findings in clinical settings.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateSep 1, 2015

Orangutan females prefer cheek-padded males

Research found that cheek-padded males are significantly more successful in fathering offspring, with dominant males having greater reproductive success during their tenure as dominant. However, other males were able to sire offspring during periods of rank instability or at the beginning and end of a dominant male's reign.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateSep 1, 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.

Economic security requires new measures of well-being

A University at Buffalo research team proposes new measures for savings and asset accumulation to promote lasting economic security. The study estimates monthly savings amounts required to meet various goals, such as retirement and education savings, and highlights the need for policy changes to encourage saving among low-income families.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Consumer Affairs·DateSep 1, 2015

Reading emotions in a second language

Researchers found that reading emotional content in a second language results in blander facial expressions compared to native language readings. This reduced physiological response may influence decision-making by limiting the impact of emotions.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalBrain and Cognition·DateSep 1, 2015

Accuracy of dementia brain imaging must improve

Researchers emphasize the need to improve brain imaging accuracy for dementia diagnosis and progression prediction. MRI scans and PET scans show promise, but current methods are not sensitive or accurate enough for widespread adoption.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateSep 1, 2015

Forgiving others protects women from depression, but not men

Researchers found older women who forgave others were less likely to report depressive symptoms, while older men reported the highest levels of depression when they both forgave and felt unforgiven by others. Forgiving oneself did not significantly reduce depression in this study.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAging & Mental Health·DateSep 1, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mass. General study identifies another way urate may protect against Parkinson's disease

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that urate stimulates astrocytes to activate an antioxidant pathway believed to have a role in several neurodegenerative disorders. A phase 3 trial of a urate-elevating drug, led by Dr. Michael Schwarzschild, is planned to enroll 270 patients with early-stage Parkinson's disease.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateSep 1, 2015

NASA spots Kilo, now a typhoon in the Northwestern Pacific

Typhoon Kilo was classified as a Category 3 storm after crossing the International Date Line. NASA's Aqua satellite captured images of its clear eye surrounded by powerful thunderstorms. The typhoon is currently moving northwest and poses no threat to land areas, but is expected to intensify into a Category 4 storm by September 4.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 1, 2015

Marine animal colony is a multi-jet swimming machine, scientists report

A colonial jellyfish-like species, Nanomia bijuga, coordinates multiple jets for whole-group locomotion through an elegant division of labor among young and old members. The colony can rapidly alter course and reverse its direction of swimming due to the long lever arm of the young members.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 1, 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.

Sohl to expand autism care network

Dr. Kristin Sohl is expanding the ECHO Autism program to an additional 10 sites, aiming to improve healthcare for children with autism in underserved communities. The $15 million grant will enhance early identification of autism and treatment of co-occurring conditions in primary care.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateSep 1, 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.

How does an insecticide treated bed net actually work?

Research reveals that insecticide-treated bed nets function as human-baited insecticidal traps, delivering insecticide quickly to reduce mosquito activity. The study uses infrared video tracking technology to understand how mosquitoes interact with nets and inform future LLIN designs.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 1, 2015

Climate change will irreversibly force key ocean bacteria into overdrive

A new study reveals that climate change will irreversibly force key ocean bacteria into high-speed reproduction, producing 50% more nitrogen. This accelerated growth can't be reversed and may lead to catastrophic die-offs of the microorganism and dependent species.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 1, 2015

Psychological consequences remain profound in coastal areas of Tohoku

A study by Tohoku University found that depressive symptoms are higher in coastal areas than inland areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. Four percent of participants experienced considerable posttraumatic stress reaction (PTSR). Psychologists have provided support to over 600 residents with psychological problems.

SourceTohoku University·DateSep 1, 2015

Made from solar concentrate

A team of scientists from Berkeley Lab and the University of Illinois created a solar cell that absorbs high-energy light at a 30-fold higher concentration than conventional cells. This breakthrough uses quantum dot light-emitters with spectrally matched photonic mirrors to efficiently utilize the high-energy part of the solar spectrum.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Photonics·DateSep 1, 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.

Large parks key to city success

The study concludes that high-density cities with large parks or nature reserves yield the most benefits, but smaller parks and gardens also play a positive role. Compact developments incorporating large green spaces are essential for delivering ecosystem services.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateSep 1, 2015

Suicide-by-firearm rates shift in 2 states after changes in state gun laws

Research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that Connecticut's permit requirement led to a 15.4% reduction in firearm suicide rates, while Missouri's repeal increased rates by 16.1%. The study suggests factors other than handgun licensing may have contributed to the decline in Connecticut.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateSep 1, 2015

The four-letter code: How DNA barcoding can accelerate biodiversity inventories

A new study reveals how DNA barcoding can accelerate biodiversity inventories by using rapid publishing techniques and surveying nature reserves in just four months. The results revealed abundant biodiversity in previously understudied taxa, including the addition of 181 new spider species to the inventory list.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateSep 1, 2015

NASA-NOAA satellite shows fred facing a fizzling future

Tropical Storm Fred has rapidly weakened to near 50mph due to increased wind shear and cooler sea surface temperatures. It is forecasted to become a tropical depression by late Wednesday, September 2, with potential dissipation by Friday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 1, 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.

Self-driving golf carts

Researchers at MIT's SMART program conducted a six-day experiment using autonomous golf carts to ferry tourists around winding paths. The system, which used off-the-shelf sensors and dynamic algorithms, demonstrated a 98% user satisfaction rate and showed potential for elderly transportation applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 1, 2015

Preterm birth linked with lower math abilities and less wealth

A recent study has found that preterm birth is associated with lower academic abilities in childhood and lower educational attainment in adulthood, leading to less wealth. The research also showed that the effects of prematurity on math abilities can last into the fifth decade of life.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 1, 2015

Most CRT-P patients would not benefit from addition of defibrillator

A recent study published in European Heart Journal found that most patients with cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) pacemaker would not benefit from the addition of a defibrillator. The CeRtiTuDe cohort study analyzed data from 1,705 consecutive patients implanted with CRT between 2008 and 2010 in France.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateSep 1, 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.

How to get rid of a satellite after its retirement

Researchers developed a new method to eliminate artificial satellites in Highly Elliptical Orbits (HEO) by leveraging gravitational effects. The methodology, tested with the European Space Agency INTEGRAL mission, reduces both cost and risk.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAdvances in Space Research·DateSep 1, 2015

Vitamin a implicated in the development of alcoholic liver disease

Chronic alcohol consumption lowers vitamin A levels in the liver while raising levels in other tissues, leading to reduced vitamin A function and its link to alcoholic liver disease. Novel treatments may focus on counteracting alcohol's impact on vitamin A levels in the liver.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 1, 2015

New NGA global map advances R&D in geophysics and nonproliferation

The Antineutrino Global Map 2015 offers new insights into the Earth's interior and reveals information about the planet's heat sources and geodynamics. The map provides a new tool for basic science research and nuclear nonproliferation efforts.

SourceNational Geospatial-Intelligence Agency·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 1, 2015

New UT Arlington-developed product could help concepts become working apps

Researchers at UT Arlington have developed a computer program called PixeltoApp that can automatically create a working app from an artist's concepts. The product uses image information to create user interfaces and has been shown to be similar to original apps in experiments with over 100 cellphone apps.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 1, 2015

Explaining crocodiles in Wyoming

Researchers suggest increased low clouds in the Arctic due to rising temperatures could slow the formation of frigid air masses, explaining past and future continental warming. This mechanism may have allowed crocodiles to thrive in Wyoming during the Cretaceous and Eocene periods.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 1, 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.

Redefining pediatric malnutrition to improve treatment

The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.) has redefined pediatric malnutrition to include five domains: anthropometrics, growth, chronicity, etiology, and impact on functional status. This revised definition aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of malnutrition in pediatric patients.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalNutrition in Clinical Practice·DateSep 1, 2015

Could tiny jellyfish propulsion drive design of new underwater craft?

Researchers study tiny jellyfish's coordinated multiple jets propulsion system, which could inspire a natural solution for multi-engine organization in underwater-distributed propulsion vehicles. The jellies' ability to turn and maneuver with relatively simple components could lead to more efficient and redundant designs.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 1, 2015

Inntags: new tools for innocuous protein tagging

A new approach to tag proteins has been developed using plant protein epitopes, inntags, which are stable and do not compromise native function. The smallest protein domains with strong structural determinants were selected for tagging purposes.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 1, 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.

Yeast study yields insights into cell-division cycle

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered that a yeast vacuole plays a vital role in initiating the cell-division cycle. The study's findings suggest a 'checkpoint mechanism' that prevents cell-cycle progression if essential organelles aren't present, which could lead to new insights into cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateSep 1, 2015

Helping toddlers understand emotion key to development

A federally funded study led by Michigan State University researcher finds that teaching toddlers to understand emotion through 'emotion bridging' with their mothers can reduce behavioral problems. Mothers of higher-risk toddlers benefited most from this strategy, particularly those from disadvantaged families.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateSep 1, 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.

Surge in bicycle injuries to riders over 45

A recent study by UC San Francisco found that bicycle accidents among riders older than 45 have increased significantly, resulting in more hospitalizations. The study showed a 66% increase in hospital admissions to older riders and an 81% rise in injuries occurring to riders above age 45.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateSep 1, 2015

Oxygen oasis in Antarctic lake reflects Earth in the distant past

Researchers found a thin layer of oxygen in Lake Fryxell, Antarctica, which could be a modern replica of ancient oxygen oases. This discovery sheds light on the Great Oxidation Event, a major turning point in Earth's history when oxygen became more prevalent.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGeology·DateSep 1, 2015

How wind sculpted Earth's largest dust deposit

Researchers found that wind blew dust from the Mu Us Desert into the Loess Plateau, creating a massive accumulation of consolidated dust. The plateau is not static but slowly moving downwind due to wind erosion, and linear ridges on its top are also sculpted by the wind.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeology·DateSep 1, 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.

When stroke patients undergo surgery to remove blood clots, what anesthesia works best?

A study in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases explores the pros and cons of general anesthesia versus conscious sedation for stroke patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery. The authors conclude that an anesthesiologist or anesthesia care team should be present to provide sedation, regardless of the approach used.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateSep 1, 2015