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Science News Archive May 2015


Page 12 of 31

Mechanical ventilation associated with long-term disability

Critically ill patients who have been mechanically ventilated for more than seven days are at greatly increased risk for functional impairment and mortality. FIM score, Charlson score, and age independently predicted mortality and disability at one year after discharge.

Stress levels linked to risk of liver disease death, study shows

A new study from the University of Edinburgh found that individuals with high psychological distress were more likely to die from liver disease. The research tracked over 165,000 participants for ten years and controlled for various factors such as alcohol consumption and socioeconomic status.

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.

'Redesigned' antibodies may control HIV: Vanderbilt study

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have redesigned an antibody using a computer program, increasing its potency and ability to neutralize multiple strains of HIV. The study suggests that computer-redesigned antibodies may speed the search for an effective therapy or vaccine against HIV.

Text messages can help boost teen birth control compliance

Sending periodic text messages to teens can improve birth control adherence. The study found that 87% of patients with personalized daily texts showed up for their first injection, compared to 56% without texts. Text messaging also helped increase adherence to a tight treatment schedule and regularly taking prescription medications.

Treating infants of mothers with opioid dependence -- rising rates, rising costs

The cost of treating babies with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) has increased dramatically, with costs rising from $1.1 million in the first year to $1.8 million in the third year, a 15-16 fold increase compared to healthy infants. Proactive screening and treatment are recommended to address this growing public health concern.

For spider monkeys, social grooming comes with a cost

A study found that physical contact during social grooming increases the risk of gastrointestinal parasites in brown spider monkeys. The researchers analyzed data from 12 individual monkeys and found a strong correlation between grooming interactions and parasite infections, particularly with roundworms Strongyloides and Trichostrongylus.

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.

In study, skipping meals is linked to abdominal weight gain

A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that skipping meals can lead to insulin resistance and increased abdominal fat gain in mice. Mice on restricted diets who fasted for extended periods developed metabolic issues, including inflammation and plumper fat cells, compared to those who ate regularly.

NASA's triple examination of Typhoon Dolphin

Typhoon Dolphin intensified over the Northwestern Pacific Ocean before weakening into an extra-tropical storm, according to NASA's triple examination. The RapidScat instrument detected a significant increase in winds, while the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) core observatory estimated heavy rainfall near Guam and Rota.

Nature inspires first artificial molecular pump

Researchers at Northwestern University develop first artificial molecular pump, mirroring the pumping mechanism of life-sustaining proteins in living cells. The tiny machine can force molecules to move against their natural flow, storing energy for potential use in molecular machines and artificial muscles.

Chameleon proteins make individual cells visible

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new microscopy technique that enables selective visualization of individual cells within complex tissue. Using 'chameleon proteins' like Dendra 2, they can highlight single cells or groups of molecules with one color while keeping other cells visible in another color.

How does the brain respond to hearing loss?

Researchers found that brain areas normally dedicated to hearing can adapt to early-stage hearing loss, affecting cognitive decline and speech perception. The study suggests that this compensatory adaptation may lead to decreased brain resources for processing sound.

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.

ISU study: Estrangement likely when child does not share mother's values

A new study by Iowa State University researchers found that mothers are more likely to estrange themselves from their adult children due to differences in core values and societal norms. Mothers who were divorced or widowed, with a single child who had violated their expectations, were also more likely to experience estrangement.

Oregon scientists say preparing foster kids for school lessens impact of moves

A new study by Oregon researchers found that preparing foster children for school can significantly reduce the negative impact of frequent moves on their academic and behavioral performance. By starting children ready for kindergarten, social stability can be maintained, allowing them to keep pace academically within existing education...

Unsavory hits the App Store and Google Play

The game, developed by NERDLab at the University of Miami, aims to educate consumers and encourage them to speak up in favor of paid sick time. It was found that 60% of restaurant workers have had to work while sick, putting public health at risk.

'Natural' sounds improve mood and productivity, study finds

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that playing natural sounds in offices boosts worker moods and improves cognitive abilities. The study tested three different sound stimuli: typical office noises with a conventional masking signal, an office soundscape with a 'natural' masker, and an office soundscape with no masker.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Developmental psychology: Sharing doesn't hurt

A new study by LMU's Markus Paulus shows that preschoolers as young as 3 years old can anticipate negative feelings in others and adjust their behavior accordingly. The results suggest that a heightened awareness of the emotional consequences of being left out is a stronger incentive to generosity than making the recipient happy.

Cold-blooded animals find it hard to adjust to global warming

A recent study found that ectothermic animals have limited ability to acclimate to increasing temperatures, making them vulnerable to global warming. The research suggests that these animals will need to rely on behavioral or evolutionary changes to survive as temperatures rise.

Study identifies barriers to intimate partner violence services

A study by the Crime Victims' Institute found that Texas has a shortage of beds for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and that many face barriers to accessing services, including language and financial issues. The survey also highlighted the need for more support services, particularly for underserved populations.

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.

Scientists print low cost radio frequency antenna with graphene ink

Researchers from the University of Manchester have printed a radio frequency antenna using compressed graphene ink, demonstrating its potential for commercial use in low-cost applications. The antenna is flexible, environmentally friendly, and could be mass-produced at a lower cost than traditional metals.

Suicide trends in school-aged children reveal racial disparity

A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found higher suicide rates among black children compared to white and Hispanic children. The research highlights an emerging racial disparity in childhood suicide, with possible contributing factors including increased exposure to violence, early puberty, and lower help-seeking behavior.

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 techniques for reprogramming stem cells target neurological disease models

Emerging model systems of reprogrammed human neurons will drive discovery of new patient-specific therapies, accelerating research on understanding neuronal activity, brain development, and neurological diseases. The article discusses recent technological advances, current challenges, and future clinical applications.

NASA advances CubeSat concept for planetary exploration

Scientists can now observe physical phenomena beyond Earth's orbit with a new CubeSat concept. The CAPEd Crusader will use small-satellite technology to transmit data from distant planets, revolutionizing planetary exploration.

Printing 3-D graphene structures for tissue engineering

A Northwestern University team developed a novel graphene-based ink that can print large, robust 3D structures while preserving the material's unique properties. The ink allows for the creation of flexible and strong scaffolds that can support stem cells and promote differentiation into neuron-like cells.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Tunable liquid metal antennas

North Carolina State University researchers develop tunable liquid metal antenna controlled by voltage, allowing for dynamic changes in operating frequency and radiation pattern. This innovation enables miniaturization and adaptation to correct near-field loading problems, making it highly desirable for mobile devices.

COPD is more prevalent in poor and rural areas of the US

A nationwide analysis of COPD prevalence found that living in rural areas and poverty are significant risk factors for the disease. The study, which included over 87,000 participants, also found an association between biomass fuels and COPD in southern communities.

Bloom preservation

Research by Jamshidi et al. found that combining salicylic acid, malic acid, and urea can extend cut gerbera blooms' vase life from a week to over two weeks. These compounds prevent bacterial contamination and sustain enzyme activity in the stems.

Bodyguards for precious seeds

A research project by ACIB uses bacteria as bodyguards for seeds like corn, canola, and sugar beet to improve growth, ward off pests, and increase resilience. The method has shown positive results in tests, offering a viable alternative to pesticides for healthier food production.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Nerve cells use each other as maps

Researchers found that nerve cells act as barriers or guides to position themselves correctly, creating a map for other cells to follow. This study uncovers an exciting new mechanism for how nerve cells position themselves in the first place, with important implications for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders.

Ancient snakes -- a new hiss-tory

Researchers from Yale University have reconstructed the ancestral snake's body plan, revealing a nocturnal, stealth-hunting predator with complete ankles and toes. The study sheds light on the origin of snakes, which originated around 128.5 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period.

What makes cancer cells spread? New device offers clues

Researchers developed a new micro-device that separates and analyzes highly mobile cancer cells, which are believed to be the more aggressive cells responsible for metastasis. The study aims to gain an understanding of what makes some cancer cells able to spread to other areas of the body.

HIV reservoirs remain obstacles to cure

HIV reservoirs are persistent cells that harbor the virus, making it difficult to achieve a cure; current therapeutic strategies focus on eliminating or controlling the virus without daily ART.

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.

St. Jude scientist named Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator

J. Paul Taylor has been selected as a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) investigator, recognizing his expertise in cell and molecular biology, neurological diseases, and genetics. The HHMI initiative will provide Taylor with salary, benefits, and a research budget to accelerate his work on groundbreaking scientific contributions.

Oral steroids for acute sciatica produce limited improvement in function and pain

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that short-course oral steroids resulted in only modest improvement in function and no significant reduction in pain for patients with acute sciatica. The research suggests that oral steroid treatment may not be an effective option for this common condition.

Adults harbor lots of risky autoreactive immune cells, Stanford study finds

A new Stanford University School of Medicine study found that vast numbers of self-reactive immune cells remain in circulation well into adulthood, challenging the long-held belief that they are weeded out early in life. This suggests that adults may be more susceptible to autoimmune disease than previously thought.

Fresh milk, off the grid

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a method to preserve milk using short pulsed electric fields, which can kill bacteria and extend shelf life. The technology is energy-efficient and does not require constant electricity supply, making it suitable for use in developing countries.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Atmospheric release of BPA may reach nearby waterways

Researchers from the University of Missouri and USGS found that atmospheric releases of Bisphenol-A (BPA) can elevate its levels in nearby surface waters, threatening aquatic species and humans. BPA concentrations were up to ten times higher near known atmospheric release sites, indicating a potential novel route of exposure.

Oral steroids for herniated disk do not improve pain

A study published in JAMA found that oral steroids did not significantly improve pain in patients with acute radiculopathy due to a herniated lumbar disk. However, the treatment showed small improvements in function, suggesting potential benefits for some patients.

Drought-induced tree mortality accelerating in forests

Researchers found that tall trees with low hydraulic conductance are most likely to die from future drought stress, posing a significant threat to earth's carbon storage. This study predicts widespread forest mortality under climate warming, highlighting the need for forest management interventions.

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.

Researchers determine best anesthesia option for infants

A study published by the American Society of Anesthesiologists found that spinal anesthesia is safer than general anesthesia for infants undergoing hernia surgery. The research revealed that regional anesthesia reduces the risk of complications such as apnea, breathing difficulties, and developmental issues in young children.

Scientists figure out how vitamin E keeps muscles healthy

Researchers found that vitamin E helps muscles heal by repairing damaged plasma membranes, which are essential for maintaining cell function. Without it, cells can't properly recover from injury, leading to conditions like muscular dystrophy and diabetes-related muscle weakness.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

UK population is becoming overweight and obese at younger ages

A study of over 56,000 people born in Britain from 1946 to 2001 found that most of the rise in BMI has been due to increases at the upper end of the distribution, with childhood obesity more prevalent among younger generations. The age at which adults enter the overweight range decreased over time.

New colonial marine organisms discovered in Madeira

Researchers have discovered two new species of bryozoans in Madeira, as well as a previously unknown species from Brazil. The study utilized modern techniques and electron microscopy to analyze rock samples collected at a depth of 11 meters, revealing six documented species and one endemic to Brazil.

New form of interleukin-2 could be fine-tuned to fight disease

Scientists developed modified IL-2 molecules that can boost or block immune responses depending on the therapeutic application. These new forms of IL-2 have shown promising results in laboratory studies, including prolonged survival in a mouse model of graft-versus-host disease.

Body's 'serial killers' captured on film destroying cancer cells

Researchers from the University of Cambridge captured the process of cytotoxic T cells destroying cancer cells using state-of-the-art imaging techniques. The study reveals the remarkable precision and efficiency with which these cells patrol our bodies, identifying and eliminating virally infected and cancerous cells.

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.

What did the first snakes look like?

Researchers have reconstructed the ancestral snake, revealing it had tiny hindlimbs and targeted soft-bodied prey. The study suggests snakes originated on land, rather than in water, during the middle Early Cretaceous period.

Credit cards a valuable option for farmers' markets

A study by Washington State University found that farmers' market customers prefer having local vendors and high-quality produce over electronic payment options. The survey showed that running out of cash limits purchases, but offering alternative payment methods can benefit both vendors and customers.