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Science News Archive February 2015 - Page 8


Page 8 of 31

Study tested centralized system for reminding families about immunizations

A randomized trial using Colorado Immunization Information System found that children in the centralized notification system received at least one contact, with documentation rates of 26.9% compared to 21.7% in the practice-based group. The study concludes that a collaborative centralized approach can increase immunization rates and is...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 23, 2015

Resistance to aspirin tied to more severe strokes

A study found that individuals exhibiting resistance to aspirin have more severe strokes, with larger brain areas affected, compared to those who respond to the drug. The study also found a median stroke severity score of four in the aspirin-resistant group, indicating a moderate stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Immunization rates improve with centralized reminder system

A new study found that a centralized notification system improved immunization rates by reaching 87% of eligible children and increasing documentation rates. The system was more cost-effective than practice-based approaches, with substantial cost savings expected from a societal perspective.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 23, 2015

Epigenome orchestrates embryonic development

Researchers at WashU Medicine found that the epigenome plays a significant part in guiding development in zebrafish embryos within the first 24 hours after fertilization. The study suggests an underappreciated fraction of the genome is involved in gene regulation, with many noncoding regions acting as developmental enhancers.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2015

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Feb. 23, 2015

Eight health professional organizations and the American Bar Association recommend reducing firearm-related injuries and death in the US through public health approaches. They advocate for criminal background checks, improved access to mental health care, and research into firearm violence causes.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2015

Intense anger associated with high risk of heart attack

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal: Acute Cardiovascular Care found that intense anger is associated with a significantly higher risk of heart attack. The study discovered that acute coronary blockage was more likely to occur within two hours of an angry episode, with the risk being eight times higher than usual.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Building tailor-made DNA nanotubes step by step

Researchers at McGill University have developed a new DNA nanotube assembly method that allows for better control over size and structure. This breakthrough could lead to applications in opto-electronics and smart drug-delivery systems.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 23, 2015

Physicians performing breast exams may miss masses deep in breast

A study found that many doctors may not be pressing hard enough during breast exams, missing deep-tissue masses. The researchers used sensor technology to assess physicians' clinical skills and found that accuracy improved with increased force application, but only up to a point.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2015

NASA satellite sees a warm winter in the western US

A recent study using NASA's Aqua satellite data shows that temperatures in the western third of the US have been warmer than normal over the past two months. The 'Ridiculously Resilient Ridge' pattern of the polar jet stream has led to this anomaly, with surface temperatures ranging from 62.3F to 80.3F.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 23, 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.

Should paramedics be allowed to give antibiotics to trauma victims?

A new study found that administering antibiotics within the first hour of injury can significantly reduce infection rates in trauma patients. The study, published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, included 137 patients with open fractures and found that those who received antibiotics early had much lower infection rates.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Trauma·DateFeb 23, 2015

How brain waves guide memory formation

Neurons generate brain waves at distinct frequencies to communicate between brain regions, reinforcing correct guesses and weakening incorrect ones. Researchers found that beta (9-16 Hz) and theta (2-6 Hz) frequencies are used in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex during learning tasks.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 23, 2015

Want to get drivers' attention? Use road signs showing more action

Researchers found that warning signs with greater movement evoke a higher perception of risk, leading to earlier attention and stopping. Dynamic signs, such as those depicting figures running or sprinting, are more effective at grabbing drivers' attention.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateFeb 23, 2015

New assistive equipment to maximize human sensorimotor function

Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a prototype called Sensorimotor Enhancing Suit (SEnS) to support human motion. SEnS reduces muscle load on the upper limbs, improving sensorimotor functions and enhancing the quality of life for both elderly individuals and healthy people working under extreme conditions.

SourceHiroshima University·DateFeb 23, 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.

Canada must ensure all orphan drugs are priced fairly to allow patient access

A recent analysis published in CMAJ argues that Canada must ensure fair pricing of all orphan drugs to allow patient access. The study examines the case of trientine, a life-saving therapy for Wilson disease, which saw its price increase 13-fold before being rescinded.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 23, 2015

Preliminary results of the JIKI clinical trial against Ebola test the efficacy of favipiravir in reducing mortality in individuals infected by Ebola virus in Guinea

The JIKI clinical trial found encouraging signs of efficacy for favipiravir in individuals with high or moderate viral replication and less severe visceral lesions. In contrast, patients with very high viral loads and serious visceral involvement showed no efficacy from the treatment. These findings have implications for Ebola virus di...

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·DateFeb 23, 2015

Antibiotics give rise to new communities of harmful bacteria

Researchers identify thiocillin as an antibiotic that activates biofilm formation in a way unrelated to its killing ability, suggesting that antibiotics may evolve to produce biofilms rather than kill other bacteria.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2015

Via laser into the past of the oceans

Scientists from GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel reconstructed pH values of northern Pacific ocean over past 120 years with monthly resolution. The study found that the pH value has been declining since late 19th century, coinciding with rising carbon dioxide levels in atmosphere.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sobering effect of the love hormone

Researchers at the University of Sydney and Regensburg found that oxytocin prevents alcohol from accessing specific brain sites causing intoxication effects, leading to improved coordination in rats. Oxytocin may help reduce alcohol's impairing effects on speech and cognition after high consumption levels

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2015

Retracing the roots of fungal symbioses

A team of researchers analyzed 49 fungal genomes, revealing that mycorrhizal fungi evolved independently in many fungal lineages. The study also found that up to 40% of symbiosis-induced genes were restricted to a single mycorrhizal species.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 23, 2015

Stretch and relax! -- Losing 1 electron switches magnetism on in dichromium

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have discovered a surprising high-spin ground state in the cationic cousin of dichromium, Cr2+, using x-ray magnetic circular dichroism. The team found complete localization of all ten valence electrons and maximum spin coupling, transforming an antiferromagnet into ferromagnetic.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 23, 2015

3-D printed guides can help restore function in damaged nerves

Researchers developed 3D printed guides to help damaged nerves repair naturally by guiding the nerve ends towards each other. Successful repairs were demonstrated in a mouse model, showing promise for treating nerve injuries with reduced surgery and improved results.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 23, 2015

Fox Chase receives grant from National Breast Cancer Foundation

Fox Chase Cancer Center has received a one-year grant from the National Breast Cancer Foundation to provide mammography screening and navigation services to underserved women. The program aims to increase access to care by bringing cancer screening into community settings via its mobile unit.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateFeb 22, 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.

Fever alarm armband: A wearable, printable, temperature sensor

Researchers at University of Tokyo develop wearable fever alarm armband with built-in temperature sensor and power supply circuit using organic components. The device can detect high body temperatures and provide audible alerts, enhancing healthcare monitoring in infant, elderly, and patient care settings.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·DateFeb 22, 2015

Experimenting preteens may have different brain processes

A study of 62 preteen girls found that those who experimented showed stronger connections between the rostrolateral prefrontal cortex and posterior insula/putamen, linked to exploring actions and body state, respectively. This could help identify teens at risk for risky behaviors.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 22, 2015

New approach to tackle alphavirus infections

A new approach to tackling alphavirus infections has been developed using the protein pentraxin 3, which plays a crucial role in promoting virus infection and disease. This breakthrough discovery paves the way for improved vaccine and drug development.

SourceGriffith University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 22, 2015

Breastfeeding, other factors help shape immune system early in life

Research by Henry Ford Hospital reveals that breastfeeding and early exposure to bacteria stimulate the immune system, boosting protection against allergies and asthma. The study found distinct gut microbiome compositions in breastfed vs non-breastfed infants, with breastfed babies at lower risk of developing allergies.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateFeb 21, 2015

A standard operation procedure to effectively detect dietetically absorbed plant miRNAs

Researchers at Nanjing University have developed a standard operation procedure to detect dietetically absorbed plant miRNAs in human plasma. The study identified six plant miRNAs with dynamic physiological patterns and kinetic absorption curves, suggesting they can exert physiological functions.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateFeb 21, 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.

AU professor develops web tool to speed data collection

A new web application developed by AU Professor Michael Bader and colleagues uses Google Street View technology to speed up researchers' data collection for sociological studies on aging in place. The app eliminates costly and time-consuming aspects of conducting research, providing a reliable tool for large-scale research.

SourceAmerican University·JournalHealth & Place·DateFeb 20, 2015

Genome's tale of 'conquer and enslave'

Researchers found that C2H2-ZF transcription factors evolved to defend the genome from self-replicating parasitic DNA, known as selfish DNA. These proteins eventually took control of genes, including those involved in brain and heart development.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 20, 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.

Palbociclib shows promise in patients with hormone-resistant breast cancer

The phase II study results indicate that palbociclib can extend disease control and produce tumor shrinkage in ER+ breast cancer patients. Researchers observed significantly longer progression-free survival in hormone receptor-positive patients compared to those with HR-negative breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 20, 2015

MARC Travel Awards Announced for ABRF 2015 Annual Meeting

The FASEB MARC Program has selected four students and postdoctorates from underrepresented groups to receive travel awards. The awards totaled $7,400 and aim to promote diversity in the biomedical research community. The recipients include Hamid Hussaini, Ibrahim Osumanu, Isavannah Reyes, and Kimberly Herard.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateFeb 20, 2015

NASA sees heavy rain in Tropical Cyclone Lam

Tropical Cyclone Lam brought heavy rain to the Northern Territory, causing flooding in low-lying areas and river rises over the central Top End. The cyclone made landfall as a Category Four storm, with sustained winds near 55 kph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 20, 2015

Bacterial memories

The study found that Listeria monocytogenes adapts its metabolism specifically to the host genotype, correlating with the severity of symptoms in infected mice. Bacteria retain a 'memory effect' that reverts to a common metabolic fingerprint after laboratory cultivation.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 20, 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.

New research pinpoints crucial protein that keeps the heart beating on time

Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have identified a critical protein called C protein that enables heart muscle fibers to contract synchronously. This discovery could lead to new treatments for severe arrhythmias that cause sudden death, affecting millions worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 20, 2015

Reducing energy efficiency boosts calorie burning in muscle

A new injection approach shows promise as a potential weight-loss therapy by making muscles less energy efficient and increasing calorie burning. This could help people overcome their body's natural resistance to weight loss, especially for those with limited mobility.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateFeb 20, 2015

Greenland is melting -- The past might tell what the future holds

Scientists studied lake cores in Greenland to understand the ice sheet's response to a warm period 8,000-5,000 years ago. They found that during this time, the ice sheet was losing mass at a rate of 100 Gigaton per year, delivering an equivalent 16 cm of global sea-level rise.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalGeology·DateFeb 20, 2015

Education 'experts' may lack expertise, study finds

A new study suggests that education 'experts' with substantial media presence but little background in education and policy research may be more influential than those with empirical expertise. Researchers found experts associated with organizations like the American Enterprise Institute received nearly 2.5 times more citations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEducation Policy Analysis Archives·DateFeb 20, 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.

Protein linked to development of asthma

A study published in Journal of Biological Chemistry identifies CCL28 as a key player in inducing asthma pathology even without a viral infection. This finding opens the door for developing potent and specific CCL28 inhibitors to prevent post-viral asthma in young children.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 20, 2015

MARC travel awards announced for: The ACSM Northwest Regional Chapter Meeting

The FASEB MARC Program has awarded $2,000 to two students from underrepresented groups to attend the American College of Sports Medicine Northwest Regional Chapter Meeting. The program aims to increase diversity in biomedical research by promoting participation and engagement among young scientists.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateFeb 20, 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.

Ancient and modern cities aren't so different

A study on ancient settlements in the Basin of Mexico found that larger settlements were more productive and efficient, exhibiting similar urban scaling trends as modern cities. The research team analyzed data from over 2000 years and four cultural eras to estimate populations and site use intensity.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 20, 2015

Safety and life-saving efficacy of statins have been exaggerated, says USF scientist

USF scientists found that statins produce a significant reduction in cholesterol levels but have failed to substantially improve cardiovascular outcomes. The researchers argue that advocates for statins have used statistical deception to inflate their effectiveness and downplay adverse effects.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalExpert Review of Clinical Pharmacology·DateFeb 20, 2015

Intoxicated on YouTube

A University of Pittsburgh analysis of 70 YouTube videos depicts drunkenness found little portrayal of negative outcomes, with humor often juxtaposed. The study suggests targeting men in future interventions debunking alcohol-related myths on social media.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateFeb 20, 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.

Hubble gets best view of circumstellar debris disk distorted by planet

Astronomers have used NASA's Hubble Space Telescope to capture the most detailed edge-on picture yet of a large disk of gas and dust encircling Beta Pictoris. The disk is distorted by the gravitational pull of an embedded giant planet, allowing scientists to study the effects of planetary formation on young star systems.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 20, 2015

Paleoclimate, proxies, paleosols, and precipitation: A look to the future

Researchers develop a new relationship between soil magnetic properties and precipitation, doubling the potential range of terrestrial paleoclimate applications. This improves understanding of hydrologic conditions in the deep past, leading to more accurate predictions of water availability and ecosystem stability in a warmer world.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalACM SIGSAM Bulletin·DateFeb 20, 2015