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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 216


Page 216 of 423

Eye-tracking system uses ordinary cellphone camera

Researchers at MIT and University of Georgia have developed an affordable eye-tracking system using machine learning and crowdsourced data. The system achieves a margin of error of 1.5 cm, outperforming previous experimental systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 16, 2016

Life as we know it most likely arose via 'long, slow dance'

Researchers propose that eukaryotic life arose through a gradual transfer of molecular machinery from archaea to bacteria. The discovery of Lokiarchaeum's genome reveals a complex organization, sparking debate about the earliest stages of eukaryogenesis.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cell Biology·DateJun 16, 2016

Device for irregular heartbeat may be more cost-effective than medication

A new study by Yale researchers suggests that a catheter-delivered device called the Watchman may be a more cost-effective treatment option for patients with atrial fibrillation. The device, which is permanently implanted in the opening of the left atrial appendage, prevents blood clots from forming and reducing the risk of stroke.

SourceYale University·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Football performance impaired by mental fatigue

Research from the University of Kent demonstrates that mental fatigue can impair football performance, reducing physical and technical abilities. Footballers experience decreased running speed, increased passing mistakes, and impaired shot accuracy when mentally fatigued.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJun 16, 2016

Innovators and leaders in radiation oncology honored with ASTRO Gold Medal awards

Benedick A. Fraass, Christopher G. Willett, and Anthony L. Zietman have been named recipients of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Gold Medal for their outstanding contributions to radiation oncology. They were recognized for their achievements in clinical patient care, research, teaching, and service to the profession.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Diverting redirection spam

Researchers have developed a system that uses fuzzy logic to analyze web addresses and detect redirection spam. The system provides an extra layer of security against phishing and malware attacks by assigning a probability to whether a suspicious link is safe or spam.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Security and Digital Forensics·DateJun 16, 2016

Study: Exercise can help adults better cope with ADHD symptoms

A new study found that exercise can help alleviate symptoms of ADHD in adults, including reduced anxiety and depression. The study tested 32 young men with elevated ADHD symptoms and found that a single bout of exercise improved their mood and motivation.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJun 16, 2016

New procedure allows long-term culturing of adult stem cells

Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital developed a new procedure to generate and expand airway stem cells from lung tissue samples, allowing for multiple generations of cultures. This breakthrough may lead to improved treatments for airway diseases like asthma and COPD.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Canadian forests a refuge as warming creeps north

A Harvard University study forecasts that boreal forests in far-northern latitudes may act as a climate refuge for black spruce trees due to higher rainfall. The research also suggests that the region's growing season will expand by 3 weeks, but drought stress could overwhelm trees south of the 49th parallel.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateJun 16, 2016

African subterranean animal exhibits 'extraordinary' cancer resistance

Scientists discovered a unique tumour-suppressor gene, alternative reading frame (ARF), that remains active in naked mole rat induced pluripotent stem cells. Reprogramming these cells into human-like iPSCs may lead to safer cell-based therapeutics by avoiding tumour formation.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2016

IBS engineers Landau-Zener-Bloch oscillations

Researchers at the IBS Center for Theoretical Physics of Complex Systems engineered Landau-Zener-Bloch oscillations within a lattice structure, revealing anharmonic properties. The study demonstrates potential for engineering new quantum states and resolving the behavior of Bloch oscillations under external fields.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·DateJun 16, 2016

Sandia researchers discover mechanism for Rift Valley fever virus infection

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have discovered that the Rift Valley fever virus uses the Wnt signaling pathway to hijack host machinery and cause infection. This mechanism offers a promising new target for developing therapeutics against this deadly virus, which can cause fatal hepatitis and hemorrhagic fever.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJun 16, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Disease outbreak guarantees' -- A proposed mechanism for enhancing public health capacity

Researchers suggest using MIGA to incentivize development of public health systems and provide coverage for disease outbreaks. The mechanism would encourage beneficiary countries to establish core capacities as set forth by the World Health Organization's International Health Regulations.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Health Care Finance and Economics·DateJun 16, 2016

Analyzing how ISIS recruits through social media

Researchers analyzed online records of 196 pro-ISIS groups, finding they adapted and extended their longevity by adapting to shutdowns and inspiring lone wolves. By tracking these 'aggregates,' cyber police and law enforcement can monitor buildup and transitions before real-world attacks.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalScience·DateJun 16, 2016

Electric fields weaker in slow-healing diabetic wounds

Researchers discovered weaker electric currents in diabetic wounds, which can lead to delayed healing and increase the risk of complications. This finding opens up new avenues for managing diabetic patients and could have significant implications for reducing healthcare costs associated with chronic ulcers and wounds.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 16, 2016

How older people learn

Researchers found that learning and training improve perception in older adults, despite degraded tactile perception. Computer simulations revealed that the brain's compensatory mechanism is strengthened, resulting in enhanced brain activity and improved perception.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Extent of resection associated with likelihood of survival in glioblastoma

The extent of resection in glioblastoma patients was found to be associated with improved overall and progression-free survival. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients who underwent gross total resection (GTR) showed a significant increase in one-year and two-year survival rates compared to those with subtotal resection or biopsy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJun 16, 2016

ALMA detected the most distant oxygenstem 2

Astronomers using ALMA detected a clear signal from oxygen in a galaxy 13.1 billion light-years away, revealing insights into cosmic reionization. The detection of ionized oxygen is crucial for understanding the early Universe and the formation of galaxies.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScience·DateJun 16, 2016

Stem cell transplant from young to old can heal stomach ulcers

Researchers discovered that stem cells isolated from young mice can accelerate repair of stomach ulcers when transplanted into older mice. Additionally, studies redefined the role of the gut microbiome in inflammatory bowel disease and found potential therapeutic applications for acute alcoholic liver disease using a scavenger compound.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJun 16, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Research may point to new ways to deliver drugs into bacteria

A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has identified dozens of genes that contribute to the rigidity and integrity of bacterial cell envelopes. These findings have significant implications for developing new antibiotics against Gram-negative bacteria, which are notoriously difficult to treat.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCell Systems·DateJun 16, 2016

Climate scientists are more credible when they practice what they preach

A new study finds that climate scientists who practice what they preach are more credible and have a greater impact on the public. The research suggests that personal behavior plays a significant role in shaping the perception of scientists' credibility, with a carbon footprint being a key factor.

SourceSpringer·JournalClimatic Change·DateJun 16, 2016

Innovative device allows 3-D imaging of the breast with less radiation

Researchers have developed a new device that enables existing breast cancer imagers to provide up to six times better contrast of tumors in the breast while maintaining the same or better image quality. The Variable Angle Slant Hole Collimator reduces radiation dose to patients by half, potentially improving imaging of other organs.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJun 16, 2016
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Liquid crystals open new route to planar optical elements

Researchers at Osaka University developed a technology to control the light wavefront reflected from cholesteric liquid crystals, enabling planar optical components. The new technology contributes to the miniaturization of catoptrics devices by allowing functionality by design.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 16, 2016

Statin drugs reduce infection risk in stroke patients

Researchers found that statins reduced the risk of infections in stroke patients by 58%, particularly when administered early. The study controlled for various factors, including severity of strokes and age, and suggested that anti-inflammatory properties may play a role.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Natural molecule could improve Parkinson's

A preliminary clinical trial suggests that n-acetylcysteine improves dopamine levels and cognitive function in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study used brain imaging studies to track changes in dopamine levels and found significant improvements in both measures.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 2016

Pitt researcher's work headed to International Space Station

A Pittsburgh researcher has received a grant to study the effects of prolonged space travel on bones using a 3D microphysiological system. The research aims to develop new treatments for osteoporosis and enhance personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Impaired decision-making may contribute to motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease

Researchers at UCLA discovered that people with Parkinson's disease have impaired decision-making, particularly when sensory information is weak. This finding suggests that the neurological factors underlying Parkinson's may be more complex than previously thought and could lead to earlier detection strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

RIT and UW-Madison study high-tech workforce, 21st century competencies

A study explores how high-tech employees learn essential skills like problem-solving, communication, and self-regulated learning for career success. Researchers will interview and survey employers, employees, and educators across four regions to understand the role of workforce development in STEM industries.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateJun 16, 2016

700-year-old West African soil technique could help mitigate climate change

A 700-year-old West African soil technique converts nutrient-poor rainforest soil into fertile farmland, potentially offsetting CO2 emissions and preventing food shortages. Researchers discovered that this method creates 'African Dark Earths' containing 200-300% more organic carbon than other soils.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 16, 2016

Lab-grown nerve cells make heart cells throb

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully grown lab-grown human nerve cells that can partner with heart muscle cells to stimulate contractions. The nerve cells, derived from pluripotent stem cells, were found to connect with and control heart muscle cells, similar to their natural counterparts.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 16, 2016

California county health programs yield high returns

A new study by University of California, Berkeley economist Timothy Brown estimates that each dollar spent on public health programs returns $67 to $88 in improved health outcomes. This far exceeds the return on investment for selected aspects of medical care, which ranged from $1.10 to $4.80 per dollar spent.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Unlocking secrets of the immune system could help combat colitis

An international team has identified interactions between immune system pathways that could improve the treatment of diseases such as colitis. The discovery may lead to more effective treatments for millions of IBD sufferers by targeting both adaptive and innate immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience·DateJun 16, 2016

Pitch range produced by vocal cords

Scientists found that the range of frequencies produced by vocal cords depends on their stretchiness and stiffness. This discovery has implications for treating damaged vocal cords and improving singing techniques. The researchers used data from 16 species, including humans, to develop a model that explains how the cord's properties af...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 16, 2016
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.

Vitamin D may not be the great solution to health problems

A recent review by University of Alberta researchers found little evidence to support the benefits of vitamin D supplementation for various health conditions. Strongest effects were seen in reducing falls and fractures among the elderly. Moderate supplementation is unlikely to cause harm but will not lead to significant health benefits.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2016

Scientists detect most distant signs of oxygen in the universe

Researchers detected gas containing oxygen in a galaxy 13.1 billion light years away, providing insight into ancient times. The discovery helps scientists understand the universe's reionization and the nature of its first stars.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalScience·DateJun 16, 2016

Bioactive film improves how implants bond with bone in animal study

Researchers developed a technique to coat polymer implants with a bioactive film that significantly increases bonding between the implant and surrounding bone. The coating improved bone formation, density, and toughness of the implant, leading to better implant fixation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering C·DateJun 15, 2016

Depressed, out of work? Study suggests skills to help land a job

A new study from Ohio State University found that unemployed individuals who use skills commonly taught as part of cognitive therapy for depression are more likely to receive a job offer. These skills include identifying negative thoughts, countering them with positive responses, and planning enjoyable activities to improve mood.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychology·DateJun 15, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Toward a diagnostic blood test for endometriosis

A study on mice suggests that endometriosis has a distinct lipid profile that could lead to a less invasive diagnostic test. The researchers found a difference in lipid metabolism between mice with the disorder and control animals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJun 15, 2016

Presurgery chemotherapy may make advanced ovarian cancers responsive to immunotherapy

Research suggests that patients with advanced ovarian cancer who underwent pre-surgical chemotherapy showed altered immune cells in their tumors, indicating a potential increase in effectiveness of immunotherapy after treatment. This study found evidence of activation of certain T cells and reduction of immune suppressive cells in pati...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 15, 2016

The Muffin Study: Mono- vs. polyunsaturated fats in patients with metabolic syndrome

A recent clinical trial found that patients with metabolic syndrome who consumed muffins enriched with safflower oil (PUFA) lost more weight and showed greater health improvements than those consuming muffins made with sunflower oil (MUFA). This is a significant finding, as the study suggests that PUFA may be a better choice for managi...

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Lipidology·DateJun 15, 2016

Bright spots shine light on the future of coral reefs

Researchers identified 15 'bright spots' with more fish than expected on coral reefs, often due to local involvement and management practices. The study's findings offer hope for radical new approaches to conservation and suggest investments in local ownership rights can promote better reef conditions.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature·DateJun 15, 2016
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.