Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2016 - Page 303


Page 303 of 423

New assay offers improved detection of deadly prion diseases

A new timed amyloid seeding assay achieves or surpasses the sensitivity of currently available tests for transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, according to a report in The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics. This advanced assay offers better detection capabilities, allowing for clinical applications and surveillance programs.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateApr 8, 2016

Study finds skateboarding sent about 176 youth to US EDs every day

A nationwide study found that skateboarding-related injuries affected 64,572 children and adolescents annually, with most being male and injured at home or on the street. The study emphasizes the importance of wearing protective gear and finding safe routes for kids to ride, especially before they reach 6 years old.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalInjury Epidemiology·DateApr 8, 2016

Controlling 'bad cholesterol' production could prevent growth of tumors, study finds

Researchers found that cancer cells can regulate the body's lipid metabolism to increase production of lipids. Minimizing liver production of LDL can deprive tumors of their constant supply and reduce growth. The study aims to test existing medications for hypercholesterolemia on patients undergoing cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 8, 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.

Cyclodextrin dissolves away cholesterol crystals

Researchers found that cyclodextrin reduces atherosclerotic plaques by reprogramming macrophages and dissolving cholesterol crystals. The treatment prevents plaque formation and reduces existing plaques in mice and human carotid arteries, pointing to cholesterol crystals as a target for atherosclerosis treatment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 8, 2016

Restoring ecosystems -- how to learn from our mistakes

A joint North European and North American study highlights the importance of continuous evaluations in ecological restoration projects. The researchers emphasize the need for documenting experiences, conclusions, and lessons learned to improve future projects.

SourceUmea University·JournalEcology and Society·DateApr 8, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The future is here: Interactive screens on your packages

Researchers have developed a new way of attaching electronic screens to paper-based packaging, enabling the display of simple messages and potentially complex developments like countdown timers. The technology could transform the packaging industry by providing innovative ways for companies to communicate brand awareness.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateApr 8, 2016

Transcranial direct current stimulation can boost language comprehension

Researchers found that stimulating the left angular gyrus with transcranial direct current stimulation improved comprehension of simple, two-word phrases. This effect was not seen with sham stimulation or right angular gyrus stimulation, suggesting a specific role for this brain region in semantic memory integration.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateApr 8, 2016

Novel optogenetic tool

Scientists have created an optogenetic tool that can control specific G-protein-coupled signalling pathways in the brain with high temporal precision. By using different-coloured light, researchers can switch these pathways on and off, offering new insights into the role of certain signalling pathways in disease.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 8, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

HKU chemists develop new strategy to synthesize molecule

A team of researchers from the University of Hong Kong has successfully developed a novel strategy for synthesizing cortistatin A, a molecule with potent anti-angiogenic activity. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of more effective anti-cancer therapies.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateApr 8, 2016

Scientists discover how Chinese medicinal plant makes anti-cancer compound

Researchers have discovered a new biochemical pathway that produces flavones in the roots of the Chinese skullcap plant, which may lead to effective cancer treatments. The discovery was made by a team led by Professor Cathie Martin and could help produce these special flavones in large quantities.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2016
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.

Simultaneous cocaine, alcohol use linked to suicide risk

A new study found that simultaneous cocaine and alcohol use is a red flag for suicide risk, with the risk being 2.4 times higher among those using both substances. The study also showed that substance misuse was less likely an indicator of suicide risk among whites and women, but more likely among older adults.

SourceBrown University·JournalCrisis·DateApr 8, 2016

Is a popular painkiller hampering our ability to notice errors?

A recent U of T study found that acetaminophen inhibits Error Related Negativity and Error Related Positivity in the brain, indicating impaired conscious awareness of errors. The research suggests potential implications for cognitive control in daily life.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateApr 8, 2016

A single ion impacts a million water molecules

Researchers at EPFL found that a single ion can influence millions of water molecules, causing them to align in a specific direction. This effect, previously observed but unexplained, is now linked to the ion-induced stiffening of the bulk hydrogen bond network.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 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.

Intracellular recordings using nanotower electrodes

Researchers have developed nanoscale-tipped high-aspect-ratio vertical microneedle electrodes that can record neuronal signals from cells deep within biological tissues. These electrodes have a needle length exceeding 100 µm, allowing for deeper tissue penetration and expanding the range of applications in intracellular recording.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalSmall·DateApr 8, 2016

Zolav®: A new antibiotic for the treatment of acne

Zolav®, a new antibiotic, shows promising results in treating acne by significantly reducing infection and redness. The treatment offers a low-risk alternative to current standard care, which includes isotretinoin with potential side effects.

SourceBoulos and Cooper Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd·DateApr 8, 2016

SwRI-led team identifies clathrate ices in comet 67P

The SwRI-led team found evidence of crystalline clathrate ices in comet 67P's atmosphere, suggesting the cometary nucleus formed closer to the Sun. This discovery could help refine solar system formation models and provide insights into the early history of our solar system.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2016

Pinpointing the effects of fertilizer

The study identifies a key region in the genome where selection has changed the behavior of rhizobia, making them less beneficial to plants exposed to nitrogen fertilizer. This finding has significant implications for finding sustainable solutions to address environmental concerns.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Liberal Arts & Sciences·DateApr 8, 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.

Social peers' death may impact CEO decisions

Researchers found CEOs of large US firms made fewer acquisitions following an independent director's death. The analysis suggests CEOs may reevaluate priorities and place less emphasis on external goals.

SourceWiley·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateApr 8, 2016

Physicists discover flaws in superconductor theory

Researchers discovered significant deviations from the Critical State Model, revealing unexpected behavior favorable for practical applications. The study suggests using 'trapped field magnets' in various new ways and applications, including replacing expensive low-temperature superconducting magnets with more affordable alternatives.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateApr 8, 2016

Curiosity leads us to seek out unpleasant, painful outcomes

A study published in Psychological Science found that humans are often driven by a desire to resolve uncertainty, even if it leads to harm. The researchers used experiments to demonstrate that individuals will click on pens with uncertain outcomes more frequently than those with clear consequences.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 8, 2016
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.

New magnetism research brings high-temp superconductivity applications closer

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered that only half the atoms in some iron-based superconductors are magnetic, providing a conclusive demonstration of wave-like properties of metallic magnetism. This finding allows for a clearer understanding of how magnetism induces superconductivity, enabling the development of ...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 8, 2016

Dressed to kill: Tailoring a suit for tumor-penetrating cancer meds

Drexel University researchers developed a strategy to overcome biological barriers in cancer medication delivery. By decorating nanovehicles with enzymes and adding an extra layer of polyethylene glycol, the particles can penetrate solid tumors more effectively, increasing antitumor efficacy.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 8, 2016

New research from Pear Bureau Northwest

A randomized, placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial found that regular fresh pear consumption significantly lowered systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure in middle-aged men and women with metabolic syndrome. The study, led by Dr. Sarah A. Johnson, suggests pears may be a potential tool to improve cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·JournalJAMA·DateApr 8, 2016

Personal data revolution takes first step

The Databox Project is developing an open-source networked device that collates and curates personal data from verified third-party applications and services. This allows individuals to exercise control over their online-generated data and enhance security and privacy.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateApr 8, 2016
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.

Many ICU patients trade critical illness for new illness, ICU-acquired weakness

A study found that some ICU patients experience persistent muscle wasting even after recovery from critical illness, leading to debilitating disability. The loss of satellite cells is a key factor in this process, contributing to age-related muscle loss and potentially permanent changes in muscle biology.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 8, 2016

How the index finger can be fooled

A new study by Bielefeld University's CITEC researchers reveals that the human brain can be fooled into perceiving a larger displacement of the index finger when it actually remains stationary, due to changes in contact area with the skin. This finding has implications for developing virtual sense of touch technologies.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 8, 2016

'Marijuana receptor' might hold the key to new fertility treatments for men

Researchers found that a cannabinoid receptor called CB2 helps regulate the creation of sperm, providing evidence for marijuana's impact on male fertility and suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for treating male infertility. The study suggests that a balance of CB2 activation is required for proper spermatogenesis.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 8, 2016

A newly discovered way for cells to die

Scientists at Rockefeller University have identified a new way for cells to die in the linker cell of Caenorhabditis elegans, resembling neuronal death in humans. The discovery suggests that this process might be involved in neurodegenerative disorders and could serve as a target for future drugs.

SourceRockefeller University·DateApr 8, 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.

HIV agencies yield insights on improving services

Researchers identified six areas for improvement: HIV prevention, common entry points, information availability, funding sources, competiveness, and building trust. Collaboration among agencies was found to be crucial for effective service delivery.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAIDS Care·DateApr 8, 2016

Six-step hand-washing technique found most effective for reducing bacteria

A new study compares two hand-washing techniques and finds that the WHO's six-step method is superior to the CDC's three-step method in reducing bacteria. The study suggests that this technique should be considered when making official recommendations on best practices in hand hygiene.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 8, 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.

Scientists to unlock the secrets of DNA sequence

Researchers found that DNA molecules interact with each other in a way that depends on the sequence of the DNA and epigenetic factors. The team presented direct evidence for sequence-dependent attractive interactions between double-stranded DNA molecules.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 2016

New discoveries into how an ancient civilization conserved water

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have made new discoveries about how ancient Maya commoners conserved water for drinking and irrigation. The study, using LiDAR technology, found evidence of over 100 small reservoirs in a Maya site, with three confirmed as water features.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 8, 2016

Pivotal inflammatory players revealed in diabetic kidney disease

A multi-disciplinary team of researchers has identified a pivotal role for sphingomyelin in driving inflammatory mechanisms underlying type 1 diabetes and obesity-related kidney dysfunction. This study provides new insights into the underlying mechanisms of diabetic kidney disease and may lead to the development of novel treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEBioMedicine·DateApr 8, 2016
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.

Fruit flies live longer on lithium

A UCL-led study reveals that low doses of lithium prolong the lives of fruit flies by blocking GSK-3 and activating NRF-2, a molecule important for cell defense. The benefits were seen in both male and female flies, with average lifespan increases ranging from 13% to 18%.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 7, 2016

Oil and gas wastewater disposal may harm West Virginia waterways

Researchers from the University of Missouri found high levels of endocrine disrupting chemicals in surface water near a hydraulic fracturing wastewater disposal facility in West Virginia. The study's results suggest potential negative health effects on aquatic organisms, other animals, and humans due to increased EDC activity.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 7, 2016
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.

CNIO scientists discover a new mechanism of resistance to chemotherapy

Researchers at CNIO have identified a protein, CDC25A, as a determinant of chemotherapy resistance in cancer cells. They used CRISPR genome editing technology to test various mutations and found that cells with this mutation were resistant to treatment.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 7, 2016

Combination therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that combining tyrosine kinase inhibitors with an FAK inhibitor synergizes to decrease tumor growth in mouse models of BCR-ABL1+ B-progenitor ALL. This combination approach is a promising treatment strategy for this subset of ALL.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 7, 2016

Catalyst could make production of key chemical more eco-friendly

Researchers developed a new composite catalyst using nitrogen-rich graphene dotted with copper nanoparticles that can convert carbon dioxide to ethylene efficiently and selectively. The study showed a selectivity of 79 percent for ethylene production, significantly higher than other approaches.

SourceBrown University·JournalNano Energy·DateApr 7, 2016

New report identifies 6 practices to improve health care for disadvantaged populations

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has identified six promising practices to improve healthcare for individuals with social risk factors. These practices include commitment to health equity, data and measurement, comprehensive needs assessment, collaborative partnerships, care continuity, and engaging patient...

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateApr 7, 2016
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.

UCI study finds safer stem cell-derived therapy for brain radiation recovery

Researchers found that microvesicle injections restored cognitive function and protected neurons in rats without adverse side effects. Microvesicles isolated from human neural stem cells were used instead of traditional stem cells to reduce risks such as immunorejection and tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2016

Climate change may reduce vulnerable salmon populations

Rising temperatures in Northern Mongolia are causing salmon metabolism to increase exponentially, putting some species near their limits of tolerance for warm water. This could push these species out of one of their last refuges as the climate continues to warm.

SourceWiley·JournalEcology Of Freshwater Fish·DateApr 7, 2016

Microbes take center stage in workings of 'the river's liver'

Rising river waters deliver a feast of carbon to hungry microbes, triggering increased activity that could naturally boost emissions. The study suggests a link between the mixing of surface water and groundwater, leading to a decline in dissolved organic carbon and an increase in inorganic carbon.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 2016