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Science News Archive November 2015


Page 27 of 35

Thiazide may pose some risk for congestive heart failure patients

Researchers warn that thiazide diuretics may cause low blood pressure in congestive heart failure patients, leading to dizziness and reduced blood flow to the brain and kidneys. The study suggests that these patients should exercise caution when taking thiazides or consider alternative medications.

Kidney transplantation prolongs survival compared with home hemodialysis

A new study comparing kidney transplantation and home hemodialysis found that transplant recipients outlived their hemodialysis counterparts by 4 times over 5 years. Elderly patients on hemodialysis had nearly a 5 times higher risk of dying compared to those with transplants, highlighting racial disparities in mortality rates.

First synthetic model of bacteria outer membrane

Researchers created a synthetic model of E. coli's outer membrane, providing unprecedented access to its structure and dynamics. The model was used to test how antibiotic molecules can cross the critical barrier, which is highly impermeable to incoming molecules.

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.

New drought atlas maps 2,000 years of climate in Europe

The new atlas uses tree rings to map severe droughts and wet periods across Europe, parts of North Africa, and the Middle East over 2,000 years. It fills a major geographic gap in climate data, helping scientists pinpoint causes of drought and extreme rainfall.

Positive emotions more contagious than negative ones on Twitter

A new study by Emilio Ferrara and Zeyao Yang found that positive emotions spread virally through Twitter feeds, with about 20% of users deemed highly susceptible to 'emotional contagion'. These users were four times more likely to produce positive tweets than negative ones.

People attribute moral obligation and blame, regardless of ability

A recent study by Professor John Turri and Wesley Buckwalter found that people attribute moral obligations to those unable to fulfill them, regardless of ability. In experiments, participants judged a lifeguard obligated to save both drowning swimmers despite physical limitations.

Researchers develop a new tool to guide recovery from disasters

Researchers developed a computerized tool to guide stakeholders in recovering large-scale infrastructure systems after disasters. The tool, based on network science, identifies the order in which stations need to be restored, considering factors like centrality measures and station importance.

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.

Amplifying -- or removing -- visual variation

Researchers at MIT have developed techniques to amplify minute motions in digital video, as well as smooth out small variations in digital images. The techniques can produce more polished images for graphic-design projects, while also disclosing structural defects and camouflaged objects.

Neurodermatitis genes influence other allergies

A study published in Nature Communications has identified seven genetic risk loci for atopic dermatitis and asthma, suggesting a link between the two conditions. The research found that regions determining atopic dermatitis risk also influence the development of asthma and other allergies, known as the atopic march.

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.

Mucus -- the first line of defense

Research at Lund University reveals that mucus in the saliva stimulates white blood cells to form effective nets of DNA and proteins, capturing and killing bacteria. Patients with aphthous stomatitis and Behçet's disease often lack saliva with this property, highlighting a potential link between mucus and these diseases.

Better options for people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who switch to clozapine have better outcomes, including fewer hospitalizations and longer medication adherence. The findings provide important guidance for clinicians caring for this vulnerable population.

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.

Gut microbiota regulates antioxidant metabolism

A study published in Molecular Systems Biology reveals that gut microbiota regulates glutathione and amino acid metabolism in mice, which may contribute to the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other diseases. The research also highlights the potential for probiotics to deliver beneficial bacteria to the gut and prevent meta...

Unlocking the mysteries of 'little starlets'

Researchers recreated conditions inside brown dwarfs using a powerful laser, shedding light on their formation and properties. The findings pave the way for further understanding of these mysterious celestial objects, which are difficult to spot due to their small size and cool temperatures.

Cellular stress process identified in cardiovascular disease

A new molecular pathway involved in heart attacks and death from heart disease has been identified by a Duke University research team. They found that stress on the endoplasmic reticulum organelle is associated with risk of future heart events and can be detected in bits of molecular detritus circulating in the blood.

Scottish university scientist behind successful rapid-detection Ebola test

A rapid-detection Ebola test developed by Dr. Manfred Weidmann has been deployed in Senegal and Guinea, performing exceptionally well under field conditions. The test uses a method called recombinase polymerase amplification and can be stored at room temperature, operated by local teams without the need for confirmatory tests.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

When less is really more

A new study reveals that hepcidin, a protein regulating iron absorption, can inhibit the body's ability to absorb iron supplements in quantities necessary and desirable. The researchers suggest waiting longer between doses may improve iron absorption efficiency and reduce side effects.

New way to find DNA damage

Researchers have developed a new way to detect chemical damage to DNA that can lead to genetic mutations and diseases. The method combines existing techniques to mark and copy DNA damage sites, preserving information on the location and type of damage.

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.

Cancer survivors less likely to receive callbacks from potential employers

A study by Rice University and Penn State University researchers found that cancer survivors are less likely to receive callbacks from retail employers compared to those who did not disclose their health history. Applicants disclosing a cancer history received fewer callbacks, highlighting subtle biases in hiring practices.

New ORNL device combines power of mass spectrometry, microscopy

A new hybrid optical microscope/mass spectrometry-based imaging system developed at ORNL provides sub-micron resolution for chemical analysis and differentiates between polymers and cells. The technology enhances understanding of material interactions, drug transport, disease progression, and response to treatment.

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.

New clues to how gatekeeper for the cell nucleus works

Berkeley Lab scientists discovered specific amino acid arrangements in FG Nups proteins enable efficient transport of molecular cargo into and out of the nucleus. These findings have implications for understanding diseases like cancer and infectious disorders.

Equations used to place patients on transplant waitlists may create disparities

A study found that three commonly used kidney function equations yield discordant results for transplant waitlist qualification, potentially leading to significant differences in qualification time and disadvantage patients. The Cockroft-Gault equation most often disadvantaged patients compared to the MDRD and CKD-EPI equations.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

From starving chicks come fat birds

A Newcastle University study found that stressed baby starlings grow into fat and greedy adults, changing their eating behavior as a result. The research showed that chicks that faced greater competition for food as juveniles tend to overeat when presented with freely available food.

UGA researchers identify essential component of antiviral defense

Researchers at the University of Georgia have identified Tpl2 as a key regulator of immune signaling proteins called interferons, which play a large role in host defense against viral infections. The study found that Tpl2 promotes induction of antiviral genes and protects against influenza virus infection.

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.

Packaging and unpacking of the genome

Studies reveal crucial role of histone chaperone protein in maintaining epigenetic landscape and genomic fidelity. Deletion of key protein leads to severe developmental defects, DNA damage, and compromised gene regulation.

NASA's Swift spots its thousandth gamma-ray burst

Swift has detected over 1,000 gamma-ray bursts, providing valuable insights into extreme physical processes. The most distant GRB recorded by Swift is from over 12 billion years ago, offering new opportunities to investigate how these events are distributed across space and time.

New look at PrEP study points to efficacy for transgender women

A new analysis of the iPrEx trial suggests that PrEP is effective in preventing HIV infection among transgender women. However, lower drug levels and reduced adherence rates are observed due to socio-cultural factors, emphasizing the need for tailored delivery models.

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.

Studies assess racial disparities associated with living kidney donation

A new study reveals racial disparities in living kidney donation rates and complications after donation. African Americans have the lowest rates of living donation, while also experiencing higher risks of complications, including gastrointestinal issues, bleeding, and respiratory problems. The findings suggest that socioeconomic factor...

Bang for the buck in stroke prevention: U-M study compares new & old drugs

A University of Michigan Medical School team compared the cost-effectiveness of two anticoagulant drugs, dabigatran and warfarin, for preventing stroke in patients over age 65 with atrial fibrillation. They found that new drugs are more cost-effective for those with prescription coverage, but may not be worth it for those without cover...

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.

Researchers uncover diverse subtypes of serotonin-producing neurons

Scientists have characterized six major molecular subtypes of serotonergic neurons in mice, revealing distinct expression patterns of hundreds of genes. These subtypes modulate different behaviors and vary in developmental lineage, anatomical distribution, and electrical firing properties.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Why's there chatter in my Himalayan singing bowl?

A group of undergraduate researchers experimentally investigated the Himalayan singing bowl and discovered how it produces 'chatter', a rapid knocking sound. The study found that the puja's motion excites the vibration of the bowl, causing a unique deflection shape.

Korea's 'Hanoks' display acoustic excellence

Research finds that Hanoks' earthen walls, paper windows, and wooden floors create a resonance effect, amplifying sound clarity and reverberation time. The unique acoustics of these traditional Korean houses make them suitable for playing classic instruments like zithers.

Adults' happiness on the decline

Researchers found that adults over age 30 are not happier than they used to be, but teens and young adults are experiencing higher levels of happiness. The study, led by San Diego State University professor Jean M. Twenge, analyzed data from four nationally representative samples of Americans ages 13 to 96.

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.

Fly method is epilepsy's ray of light

Scientists have developed a technique using optogenetics to suppress nervous system activity in genetically-altered fruit fly embryos, showing promise in preventing the onset of epilepsy symptoms when treated early enough.

Vector network analysis using lasers

PTB researchers have developed a laser-based vector network analyzer (VNA) for precise and cost-effective high-frequency measurements. The new method enables frequency-resolved scattering parameter measurements on planar waveguides up to 500 GHz with a 500 MHz frequency spacing.

$2 million to improve wheat yields for farmers across the world

The project aims to enhance wheat crop yields by understanding the genetic basis of more efficient photosynthesis. By combining diverse expertise and next-generation DNA sequencing, researchers will identify key genes responsible for improved crop performance.

It's a beauty: JILA's quantum crystal is now more valuable

Physicists at JILA have created a denser quantum crystal by packing about five times more molecules into it, allowing for the study of correlations among molecule spins and entanglement. The crystal's high density enables scientists to investigate complex effects that may lead to new materials for electronics.

Butterfly mimicry through the eyes of bird predators

Scientists investigate butterfly mimetic communities in the Western Ghats of India and find that females are generally better mimics than males. The study's results challenge expectations and raise new questions about the evolution of mimicry and selective forces influencing butterfly wing patterns.

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.