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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 343


Page 343 of 423

Increased education could help adolescents limit caffeine consumption

A recent study published in Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that nearly half of adolescents consume caffeinated beverages one to six times a week. Researchers believe that further education could lead to better decision-making regarding caffeine intake and mitigate potential health risks.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 8, 2016

How an artificial protein rescues dying cells

Researchers at Princeton University discovered how a synthetic protein called SynSerB promotes cell growth in serine-depleted E. coli cells. By inducing overexpression of a protein called HisB, SynSerB enables the production of essential amino acid serine, allowing cells to survive.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2016

Geochemists show experimental verification of principle of detailed balance

Researchers at Indiana University and Virginia Tech develop a method to assess the validity of the principle of detailed balance, widely used in models for environmental projects. The study confirms that the principle applies in systems where rates of forward and reverse processes are balanced.

SourceIndiana University·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·DateMar 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.

How to predict pediatric post-concussion symptoms: Published in JAMA

A new study developed a validated clinical prediction score to help health providers and researchers predict the duration of pediatric concussion symptoms. The score, based on nine clinical variables, was proven significantly better than physicians' predictions in predicting persistent post-concussion symptoms.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalJAMA·DateMar 8, 2016

Violin varnish: Key to a fiddle's tone

Researchers found that varnish increases damping throughout the wood surface, leading to a more isotropic sound radiation. The type of varnish used can also affect the sound, with German master violin makers' varnishes producing a louder tone.

SourceSpringer·DateMar 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.

2016 Protein Society Awards

The 2016 Protein Society Awards recognized Dr. Gary Pielak, Dr. Rachel Klevit, Dr. H. Eric Xu, and Dr. Andreas Plückthun for their groundbreaking contributions to protein science. The winners received prestigious awards sponsored by Rigaku Corporation, Genentech, The Neurath Foundation, and The Protein Society.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 8, 2016

UC San Diego biophysicists discover how hydra opens its mouth

Researchers tracked individual cells in Hydra to reveal the mechanism behind its mouth opening, which involves dramatic elastic deformations of epithelial cells. The findings solve a long-standing puzzle on how Hydra feeds and offer insights into tissue formation and patterning in simple organisms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 8, 2016

Time spent playing video games may have positive effects on young children

A study by Columbia University found that high video game usage is associated with higher intellectual functioning and better overall school competence in children. No significant associations were found with mental health problems or relationship issues.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateMar 8, 2016

Surprisingly long learning curve for surgeons operating on oesophageal cancer

A Swedish cohort study found that surgeons need to perform at least 15 operations to obtain stable survival results during the first months after oesophagectomy. The learning curve for achieving optimal long-term survival takes 60 operations, highlighting the importance of proper mentorship and training programs.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 8, 2016

NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in thermal vacuum testing

The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is being tested in a thermal vacuum chamber to evaluate its performance under extreme conditions. The 22-day test will assess the spacecraft's instruments and systems, ensuring they can withstand the harsh environment of space.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 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.

Syntax is not unique to human language

Researchers found that Japanese great tits use specific rules to combine calls and convey compound messages, demonstrating non-human syntax. The study suggests that syntax may be a general adaptation to social complexity in communication systems.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2016

Nature: KIT simulation analyzes cosmic rays

Recent measurements from the LOFAR radio telescope have provided new insights into the properties of cosmic rays, including a surprisingly high number of light particles at high energies. The KIT simulation code CoREAS has enabled precise analysis and interpretation of these signals.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2016

Why Hurricane Irene fizzled as it neared New Jersey in 2011

A Rutgers-led study published in Nature Communications found a dynamic ocean process responsible for cooling coastal waters ahead of land-falling hurricanes. This process weakened Hurricane Irene as it neared New Jersey in 2011, improving forecasts and reducing losses linked to inaccuracies.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 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.

Scientists find brain cells that know which end is up

Researchers found neurons in a color-recognizing region of the brain that can infer gravity direction from visual cues. These cells provide critical information for object physics, balance, and posture., The study suggests these cells help humans orient themselves and predict object behavior.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 8, 2016

Bird communication: Chirping with syntax

Researchers discovered Japanese great tits have developed syntactic rules, combining calls like 'ABC' and 'D' to convey specific meanings. These birds use these rules to deter predators and attract partners, demonstrating a complex form of communication.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2016
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.

NAI conference spotlights the innovation process

The NAI Conference featured presentations on the importance of invention in academic institutions and its impact on everyday life. The Special Section includes articles on the discovery of Lyrica and the commercialization process, while a new T&I feature profiles Nobel Laureate Steven Chu.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateMar 8, 2016

Everyone sees the world through their own prism

Researchers found that a person's preconceived ideas, shaped by socialization and politics, influence their views on climate protection. Economic justifications and personal aspects like health do not sway skeptics, highlighting the need for comprehensive communication strategies.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 8, 2016

Sea level rise threatens larger number of people than earlier estimated

A new study estimates that 1.9 billion people, or 28% of the world's total population, live closer than 100 km from the coast in areas less than 100 meters above the present sea level. By 2050, this number is predicted to increase to 2.4 billion, with 500 million people living lower than 5 meters above current sea level.

SourceAalto University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 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.

Inside the mouth of a hydra

A study published in Biophysical Journal illustrates the biomechanics of Hydra's mouth opening process, revealing that cells stretch and deform to accommodate the widening of its mouth. The researchers found that radially oriented fibers contract to stretch the cells apart, similar to muscle contraction.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 8, 2016

New insights into the functional organization of the somatosensory cortex

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience used electrophysiological and optical approaches to visualize and manipulate neuronal activity in individual neurons of the somatosensory cortex. They found that the formation of functional microcircuits was determined by specific settings and the number of neurons stimulated...

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2016

Do gun restrictions help reduce gun deaths?

A review of 130 studies across 10 countries found that firearm-related laws led to declines in firearm homicide and suicide rates. Laws regulating background checks and storage also showed specific reductions in certain types of gun deaths.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEpidemiologic Reviews·DateMar 8, 2016

Many women around the world leave health facilities too soon after giving birth

A new study found that a substantial proportion of women globally do not stay in health facilities long enough after giving birth, resulting in inadequate postnatal care. The average length of stay varies greatly across countries, with some women staying as little as 0.5 days or as long as 6.2 days.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 8, 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.

New breast cancer genetic mutation found in Chinese population and will help refine screening and target drug development

Researchers have identified a genetic mutation associated with a high risk of breast cancer in the Chinese ethnic population. The RECQL mutation was found to be present in 0.54% of Southern Chinese women, suggesting it may be an important factor in genetic screening for women with a family history of breast cancer.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateMar 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.

How weight affects 'wait!'

A study by University of Iowa researchers found that children with higher body mass indices were more impatient, impulsive, and prone to collisions while crossing the street. They were also less likely to select the safest route, a risk factor for pedestrian injuries.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateMar 8, 2016

Doctors aren't diagnosing or treating most cases of prediabetes, UF study finds

A University of Florida study found that less than one-quarter of patients with prediabetes received treatment from their primary care physician. Prediabetes is a common condition that increases the risk of vascular problems and diabetes, yet many people remain undiagnosed or untreated.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateMar 8, 2016

Shareholders rate women board members more highly than men

Researchers find that companies with women on their boards are valued more highly by stock markets, but only because the best women have worked harder to get there. The study suggests that firms should apply equal standards for both men and women to select board members.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateMar 8, 2016

A gut check for PCOS-related obesity

Researchers discovered that changes in gut bacteria are strongly associated with PCOS-related obesity and signs of diabetes. Modifying the gut microbiome may be a potential treatment option for women with PCOS.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 8, 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.

Some assembly required to boost robot ratings

Researchers found that participants who assembled their own robots experienced a higher sense of accomplishment and ownership. However, those who faced difficulties during assembly lowered their ratings. The study suggests that manufacturers should balance positive and negative aspects of self-assembly when designing robots.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 8, 2016

Skin cancer teams up with Sonic the Hedgehog

Lomonosov Moscow State University scientists discovered that skin cancer basal cell carcinoma contains gene mutations linked to other cancer types, including melanoma. The study found that 85% of BCC cases contain Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway gene mutations, which resist anticancer therapy.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 8, 2016

First case of acute myelitis in a patient infected with Zika virus

A young patient infected with Zika virus presented with motor deficiency, intense pain, and urinary retention. Researchers detected high concentrations of the virus in cerebrospinal fluid and treated the patient with methylprednisolone, leading to improved neurological conditions.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 8, 2016

Slower evolution and climate change drove ichthyosaurs to extinction

New research reveals that ichthyosaurs, highly diverse during their reign, were negatively affected by global changes leading to their extinction. A two-phase event suppressed ecological diversity and wiped out the group at the beginning of the Late Cretaceous period.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 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.

Voters prefer to be represented by extortioners

In a climate game experiment, researchers found that 40% of participants chose representatives with extortionate strategies. However, these strategies ultimately led to successful outcomes due to the benefit for all parties involved. The results suggest that such strategies could be beneficial in avoiding dangerous climate change.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 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.

Being short or overweight linked to reduced life chances

A study by the BMJ found that shorter height and higher BMI are associated with lower levels of education, job status, and income, particularly among men and women. The research suggests that taller stature is linked to higher social position, while being overweight or short can lead to socioeconomic disadvantages.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 8, 2016

APLU task force supports tech transfer for tenure & promotion in academia

The APLU task force suggests that universities consider the value of technology transfer activities in tenure and promotion decisions, with a focus on merit-based recognition rather than requirement. The task force recommends flexibility in evaluating technology transfer work, weighing impact, quality, and societal benefit.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateMar 8, 2016

Game apps for creative kids

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed new augmented creativity apps that combine virtual elements with real-life environments, enhancing children's creativity and social skills. The interactive colouring book and collaborative games in 3D showcase the potential of augmented reality to transform public spaces into engaging experiences.

SourceETH Zurich·DateMar 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.

Researchers unlock mechanisms in the brain that separate food consumption from cravings

Scientists discovered the chemical circuits and mechanisms in the brain that separate food consumption from cravings. The study found that dopamine is involved in the approach or craving phase, while orexin-A is linked to consumption. These findings could lead to more specific and effective treatments for overeating and drug addiction

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBehavioral Neuroscience·DateMar 8, 2016

Small cuts, big outcomes

A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada found that less invasive hysterectomies resulted in quicker recoveries, fewer complications, and cost savings for The Ottawa Hospital. The research showed a significant increase in minimally invasive surgeries from 40% to 74% between 2005 and 2012.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalJournal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada·DateMar 8, 2016

Mount Sinai researchers report insights into blood stem cells from engineered stem cells

Researchers at Mount Sinai identified precursor cells in mice embryos that can be matured into hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) using reprogramming technology. This breakthrough could lead to the development of patient-specific HSPCs for cell-replacement therapy and alleviate the need for transplantable stem cells.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 8, 2016

Nothing to sneeze at -- battling mucus to beat cancer

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have identified a gene target called GCNT3 that may offer promise in improving the treatment of pancreatic cancer. By targeting this gene, they theorized that multiple mucins could be shut down simultaneously, breaking down cancer's protective barrier.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 8, 2016

Mix and match MOF

A team of scientists has created a composite material that can selectively separate oxygen from other gases, potentially revolutionizing energy applications such as fuel cells. The new material, made by combining a MOF with a helper molecule, shows promise for being inexpensive, reusable, and easy to prepare.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 8, 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.