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Science News Archive 2016


Page 134 of 423

Graying but grinning: Despite physical ailments, older adults happier

A new study finds that older adults consistently improve their psychological well-being over time, with lower levels of stress and depression compared to younger adults. The researchers attribute this to increased wisdom with age, better coping mechanisms, and fewer negative emotions.

Barcodes show the blood family tree

Scientists at Lund University have developed a barcode system to track the development of immune cells, revealing that stem cells undergo different stages of maturation. This discovery has significant implications for understanding leukemia and autoimmune diseases.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

In some genetic cases of microcephaly, stem cells fail to launch

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that the Zika virus disrupts the proliferation of radial glial progenitors (RGPs), a type of stem cell essential for brain development. In genetic cases of microcephaly, NDE1 mutations cause RGP cells to fail to divide, resulting in severe brain developmental delays.

Majority of US doctors discussing electronic cigarettes with their patients

A survey of US physicians reveals they frequently discuss e-cigs with patients, recommending e-cigs as a way to reduce smoking, but cautioning against using them to quit. However, the study found that many doctors are uncertain about their knowledge of e-cigs and are often asked by patients about their use.

Metformin associated with decreasing weight gain in kids with autism

A clinical trial found metformin to be effective in reducing weight gain associated with atypical antipsychotics in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, suggests that metformin may offer a potential treatment option to mitigate the risks of diabetes linked to weight gain.

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.

Key substance for treatment of visceral leishmaniasis identified

Researchers have identified interleukin-17A (IL-17A) as a crucial cytokine in the immune response against visceral leishmaniasis. Stimulating IL-17A production can help reduce parasite load and prevent organ lesions, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies.

NASA sees a small tropical depression 14W

Tropical Depression 14W formed as a weak storm with isolated strong storms and a low-level center, but persistent wind shear prevented intensification. The storm is expected to move north and dissipate within 4-5 days.

New small molecule compounds could treat Ebola virus infection

Scientists have discovered a new class of small molecule compounds that can block the Ebola virus's ability to break out of cells and infect new ones. The compounds target an interaction between the virus and host cells, inhibiting viral egress without being toxic to human cells.

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.

Insulin pill could make diabetes treatment 'ouchless'

Researchers have developed a new technology called Cholestosomes that can encapsulate insulin and deliver it orally without degrading. The vesicles are made of naturally occurring lipid molecules and can pass through the stomach intact, allowing for high bioavailability and effective insulin delivery.

Rocky planet found orbiting habitable zone of nearest star

Astronomers have found a potentially habitable exoplanet, Proxima b, orbiting the red dwarf star Proxima Centauri, just 11 days from its parent star. The planet's mass is at least 1.3 times that of Earth and orbits within the star's habitable zone.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Yale team discovers how Zika virus causes fetal brain damage

A Yale team discovered that Zika virus diverts a key protein necessary for neural cell division, causing microcephaly. Researchers found an FDA-approved drug, Sofosbuvir, may prevent Zika virus infection of neural stem cells and keep phospho-TBK1 involved in cell division.

Documenting the risk of invasive species worldwide

A global analysis of environmental risk from invasive alien species reveals that one sixth of the world's lands are 'highly vulnerable' to invasion. The study highlights the need for proactive policies and international cooperation to combat these threats.

Fish oil pills reverse the effects of a fatty diet

A study published in the Journal of Physiology found that fish oil pills can prevent and counter the negative effects of a high-fat diet. Mice fed fish oil had lower body fat and improved insulin resistance compared to those on a high-fat diet.

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.

Disruptions to sleep patterns lead to an increased risk of suicides

Research identifies three pathways where sleep problems contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, including heightened risks at night and prolonged failure to achieve good sleep. The study emphasizes the need for nighttime service provision and restored healthy sleep in relation to coping with mental health problems.

NASA sees Lionrock strengthen into a typhoon

Typhoon Lionrock strengthened to a typhoon, developing an eye with powerful thunderstorms, according to NASA-NOAA Suomi NPP satellite data. The storm was moving southwest before expected to turn onto a northeasterly course.

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.

The origins of Cuban species

A research team from Hokkaido University suggests the Cuban solenodon family evolved around 59 million years ago, long after the dinosaur extinction. The species diverged from its ancestor and then traveled to Cuba via water, contradicting earlier theories.

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.

Spherical tokamak as model for next steps in fusion energy

A Fusion Nuclear Science Facility (FNSF) would test materials and generate fusion fuel, paving the way for a pilot plant that demonstrates net energy production. Spherical tokamaks' design produces high-pressure plasmas with relatively low magnetic fields.

Planet found in habitable zone around nearest star

Scientists detect a potentially habitable exoplanet, Proxima b, orbiting Proxima Centauri every 11 days. The planet's surface temperature may allow for liquid water and life support, making it an exciting target for future observations.

Parents, listen up: Children keep still during prayer

New research by UC Riverside psychology professor Rebekah Richert found that preschool-aged children view physical actions of prayer as helpful for quiet contemplation, reflection, and communicating with God. Children's views on prayer actions differ across religious traditions.

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.

Zika virus detected in newborn until 2 months after birth

A baby born with Zika infection remained infected for two months and one week after birth, showing delayed psychomotor development and spastic hemiplegia. The virus may have been sexually transmitted, as the father also showed symptoms before his wife.

Simulated patient study sheds new light on antibiotic use in India

A simulated patient study sheds light on antibiotic misuse in Indian pharmacies, revealing that only a minority of urban Indian pharmacies correctly managed patients with presumed tuberculosis. The study found that pharmacies frequently dispensed antibiotics to patients presenting with TB symptoms without prescriptions.

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.

UBC researchers plumb the secrets of tissue paper

A UBC research team created a comprehensive model of creping to improve the quality of tissue paper. The new model allows manufacturers to tailor the creping process for optimal softness, flexibility, and strength.

CPRIT awards $9.6 million for UTSW projects

CPRIT awards UT Southwestern Medical Center $9.6 million for various cancer research projects, including lung cancer treatment and prevention efforts. The funding will support research into how cancer cells grow, target breast cancer survivors with active living interventions.

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.

Could physical activity be good for alcohol and substance use disorders?

A systematic review of existing research suggests that physical activity could divert attention away from addiction, build confidence, and improve mood. The study aims to provide practical information on the effectiveness of physical activity as an alternative approach to treating alcohol and substance use disorders.

New map shows alarming growth of the human footprint

A new map reveals that humans have seriously altered 97% of the planet's most biodiverse regions, including tropical rainforests. The study found that environmental pressures are widespread, but some nations and countries with strong governance are showing signs of improvement.

Skemp to receive GSA's 2016 Minority Mentorship Award

Lisa Skemp, PhD, RN, FGSA, FAAN, is the 2016 recipient of the Minority Issues in Gerontology Committee Outstanding Mentorship Award. She has demonstrated a long history of promoting health and quality of life for community-dwelling elders through her research on building community capacity for healthy aging.

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.

Study strengthens evidence that cognitive activity can reduce dementia risk

A recent study analyzing 12 peer-reviewed epidemiologic studies found a substantial benefit of late-in-life cognitive activities in reducing the incidence of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The bias analysis suggested that potential confounding factors may not account for the observed associations, lending support to a...

Post-disaster optimization technique capable of analyzing entire cities

A team of Lehigh engineers has created a novel method called AMIGO that considers multiple elements and is the first to factor in so many aspects. The algorithm demonstrates its effectiveness on transportation network recovery in an imagined post-earthquake San Diego, finding near-optimal solutions in a small number of trials.

Seniors with more continuity of care use the ER less

A study of over 3 million Medicare patients found that seniors with higher continuity of care had 20% lower risk of emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Maintaining a relationship with one doctor can help avoid such situations.

How long do you want to live? Your expectations for old age matter

A study found that young and middle-aged adults in the US prefer to live longer than average life expectancy if they have positive expectations for old age, but those with negative expectations prefer shorter lives. The study used a telephone survey of over 1600 adults aged 18-64 years and found no relationship between age, gender, or ...

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Amyloid-related heart failure now detectable with imaging test

Researchers have developed an imaging technique that can accurately diagnose and prognosticate transthyretin-related cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA), a type of heart failure. The test uses technetium 99m pyrophosphate and has been shown to correctly identify ATTR in 91% of patients, ruling out other forms of amyloidosis.

Study takes a step back to look at use of restraints in hospitals

A recent study published in Journal of General Internal Medicine found that hospitals with adequate staffing levels, particularly registered nurses, experience reduced restraint use. The research suggests that the type of nursing staff rather than just total staffing is a crucial factor in preventing restraints from being used.

Global climate models do not easily downscale for regional predictions

Climate researchers found that global climate models become increasingly uncertain when making predictions at scales below approximately 600 miles for temperature changes and 1200 miles for precipitation patterns. This makes it difficult to predict regional variations, such as the difference in warming between Indianapolis and Pittsburgh.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Bio-inspired tire design: Where the rubber meets the road

Researchers at Lehigh University, Michelin Corporation, and NSF are developing materials with surface architectures that could enhance the safety and reliability of tires. By mimicking the smooth pad surfaces found on the feet of grasshoppers or frogs, they aim to improve sliding friction while minimizing rolling resistance.

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.