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Science News Archive May 2016


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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.

Cancer studies should include overweight, elderly mice

Incorporating laboratory mice that are old and obese into immunotherapy treatments for cancer can hasten therapeutic breakthroughs. The use of young, healthy mice is often preferred, but this approach may not accurately reflect the human immune system's response to treatment.

A jolt from the blue: Rays provide power for an electric generator

Researchers from RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center create a new type of electricity generator based on the electric organs of torpedoes, achieving peak voltages and currents comparable to conventional systems. The breakthrough could lead to a future high-efficiency power generator that uses ATP directly.

Brain structure that tracks negative events backfires in depression

A UCL study found that the habenula, a region that responds to bad experiences, functions abnormally in people with depression. In healthy adults, this region activates when expecting aversive events, but in depressed individuals, it decreases activation. The study suggests the theory on the habenula's role in depression needs rethinking.

Many patients continue using opioids months after joint replacement

A study of 574 patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery found that 30% were taking opioids prior to surgery, with 35% continuing to take them six months later. High-dose opioids and higher pain scores on the day of surgery were associated with persistent opioid use.

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.

Study paves way for new therapies in fight against calcium disorders

Researchers at Georgia State University discover the molecular basis of human diseases resulting from CaSR mutations, potentially leading to new therapies for hypocalcemia and Alzheimer's disease. The study also identifies a small molecule as a lead compound for CaSR regulators.

Measuring the Milky Way: 1 massive problem, 1 new solution

PhD candidate Gwendolyn Eadie has developed a method to estimate the mass of the Milky Way using globular cluster velocities. This approach predicts the mass contained within any distance from the center of the galaxy, providing new insights into the dark matter component.

Autism care improved, diagnosis time shortened by new MU program

A new MU program trains primary care providers to screen and manage autism spectrum disorders, improving confidence and utilization of resources. Early diagnosis is critical for children with autism, and the program aims to reduce disparities for rural and underserved children.

Women with migraines have higher risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality

A large study published in The BMJ reveals that women with migraines are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Migraine has been consistently linked to an increased risk of stroke, but few studies have shown an association with cardiovascular disease and mortality.

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.

A new 'Einstein ring' is discovered

Astronomers have discovered a new 'Canarias Einstein ring', a rare and unusual phenomenon that provides insight into the composition of distant galaxies. The discovery was made using data from the Gran Telescopio CANARIAS (GTC) and offers valuable information about the structure of gravitational fields and dark matter in galaxy lenses.

It pays to increase energy consumption

Researchers at Aarhus University found that using 10% more energy for heating can save 10% on the bill while reducing carbon dioxide emission. They developed an intelligent management system to optimize building operations, predicting energy prices and environmental impact.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Implanted neuroprosthesis improves walking ability in stroke patient

A surgically implanted neuroprosthesis has led to substantial improvement in walking speed and distance for a patient with limited mobility after a stroke. The device stimulates coordinated activity of hip, knee, and ankle muscles, resulting in a more symmetrical and dynamic gait.

Flatworms left in sunlight spur investigations into rare metabolic disorders

A type of flatworm, Schmidtea mediterranea, can provide a new model for studying rare metabolic disorders like porphyrias. Prolonged exposure to sunlight triggers the production of light-activated molecules in its skin pigment cells, leading to depigmentation and potentially aiding in the development of new treatments.

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.

Sparrows with unfaithful 'wives' care less for their young

A new study reveals that male sparrows can distinguish between their faithful and unfaithful partners. When paired with an unfaithful female, males provide less food for their chicks. The research suggests that males make this decision based on the partner's behavior during fertile periods rather than detecting which chicks are theirs.

Algorithm could help detect and reduce power grid faults

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed an algorithm using Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA) to quickly detect and locate power grid faults, providing a promising solution for authorities to remotely identify issues before they cause prolonged outages or equipment damage.

New blood test for the detection of bovine TB

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a new blood test that detects Mycobacteria in blood with high sensitivity. The test delivers results within 48 hours and has been shown to detect the bacterium M. bovis in cattle diagnosed with bovine tuberculosis (bTB) with high accuracy.

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.

Leaving the electrical grid in the Upper Peninsula

A new study by Michigan Tech engineers and sociologists reveals that leaving the electrical grid is a viable option for the majority of seasonal households (92%) and single-family owner-occupied households (65%). Solar-hybrid systems, combining solar power with cogeneration and battery storage, can overcome cloudy winter days. The stud...

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

'Super Mario Brothers' is harder than NP-hard

Researchers show that Super Mario Brothers' level completion can be constructed to be PSPACE-hard, a class of problems considered even harder than NP. This suggests that completing a difficult level in Super Mario Brothers may require an exponential amount of time and computational effort.

Studying life on the rocks

A team of scientists has developed an apparatus to measure the behavior of ice under various external forces. The device can be used to study both terrestrial glaciers and icy satellite bodies, providing insights into potential life-supporting oceans beneath the ice.

Bisexual college students most vulnerable to sexual assault

A new study published in Violence and Gender journal found that nearly 2 of every 5 bisexual female college students were victims of sexual assault. Greek life was identified as a strong factor linked to higher prevalence of sexual assault for most student groups.

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.

Researchers create first 3-D mathematical model of uterine contractions

A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has developed the first 3D multiscale mathematical model of uterine contractions, which may aid in predicting preterm birth. The model precisely replicates the electrical activity in the uterus during a contraction using data from magnetomyography measurements.

Leaky blood-brain barrier linked to Alzheimer's disease

A new study published in Radiology found increased blood-brain barrier permeability in people with early Alzheimer's disease. The researchers used contrast-enhanced MRI to identify leakages in the BBB, which could represent a key mechanism in the early stages of the disease.

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.

How long have I got? The response influences quality of end-of-life care

A study by University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work researchers examines the perceptions and preferences of older Latinos with advanced cancer regarding news on their diagnosis or prognosis. The investigation aims to identify culturally appropriate training for physicians and providers, promoting quality end-of-life care.

Fiddler crabs' 'Morse code' attracts Mrs. Right

Male fiddler crabs produce female-luring vibrations in their burrows, serving as a type of 'Morse code' that females decipher to learn about suitors. The length and interval of pulses convey information on male characteristics, influencing female decision-making during mating.

Mantis shrimp inspires next generation of ultra-strong materials

Researchers develop novel herringbone structure in dactyl club, enabling incredible damage to prey while resisting fracture. The unique structure is composed of crystalline calcium phosphate and chitin fibers, offering a new pathway to create ultra-strong composite materials.

Researchers find what could be brain's trigger for binge behavior

A team of researchers at Johns Hopkins University has identified a key brain region involved in binge behavior, which could lead to the development of new treatments for addiction. By suppressing neurons in this area, rats were less motivated to engage in binge-like behavior when exposed to external triggers.

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.

The mysterious sexual life of the most primitive dragonfly

Researchers observe thousands of Hemiphlebia mirabilis in Australia, revealing a unique mating system and high sperm competition mechanisms. The species displays elaborate abdominal flicking displays, suggesting an advanced courtship behavior.

'Baby talk' can help songbirds learn their tunes

Research by McGill University scientists found that juvenile zebra finches learned adult songs better when interacting with an adult, mimicking human-like speech adjustments. The study suggests social interaction can enhance vocal learning, which may have implications for treating autism and other developmental disorders.

Tiny probe could produce big improvements in batteries and fuel cells

Scientists have developed a new nanoscale probe to study electrochemical properties, which could lead to significant improvements in battery and fuel cell performance. The device can measure local variations in material properties, allowing researchers to better understand how electrochemical systems work.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Attosecond physics: Attosecond camera for nanostructures

Physicists observe nanoscale light-matter phenomenon lasting only attoseconds, studying collective electron motions and near fields in gold nanoneedles. The development enables precise characterization of near-field vibrations, paving the way for complex studies of light-matter interactions in metals.

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.

2016 Gutenberg Teaching Award conferred on Nobel Prize winner Carl Wieman

Carl Wieman, a Nobel laureate in Physics, has received the 2016 Gutenberg Teaching Award for his exceptional contributions to the dissemination of knowledge and quality of academic teaching. The award recognizes his efforts to improve undergraduate science education through innovative approaches and tools.

Hunting for the brain's opioid addiction switch

New research by Dr. Steven Laviolette suggests that opiate-induced changes in brain circuits can be reversed, targeting dopamine signalling and protein adaptations to prevent or reverse addiction. The findings aim to inform approaches to addiction treatment and develop more effective pharmacological interventions.

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.

Theft behind Planet 9 in our solar system

Astronomers at Lund University propose that Planet 9, a mysterious object in our solar system, may be an exoplanet captured by the sun. The study suggests that the sun stole the planet from its original star during a close encounter.

Can the environment help control disease in Asian aquaculture?

A consortium of researchers from the University of Southampton and other institutions is leading a project to calculate the role of physical pond conditions in controlling two devastating pathogens affecting Asian aquaculture. The team aims to develop new guidelines for disease management and novel intervention methods.

Tobacco smoke makes germs more resilient

Researchers found that tobacco smoke increases the likelihood of certain bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis colonizing the body. Biofilms formed by these pathogens can be difficult to eradicate and promote antibiotic resistance.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.