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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 352


Page 352 of 423

Ruby red improves in the microwave oven

Researchers tested a new way to treat colour problems in rubies by using microwaves. The study found that the microwave treatment led to visible changes in the gemstones' colour and structure.

SourceSpringer·DateMar 2, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Water-skiing beetles get a bumpy ride

Researchers discovered that the beetles' unique method of movement involves raising their middle legs to prevent wing interference and then rapidly flapping their wings in a figure-of-eight pattern. The insects' balancing act between surface tension and lift generates telltale ripples on the water's surface.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMar 2, 2016

Thirdhand smoke linked to type 2 diabetes

A UC Riverside-led study links thirdhand smoke exposure to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia in mice, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Exposure to toxins from second-hand smoke causes oxidative stress, damaging proteins and DNA, leading to insulin resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 2, 2016

Breast cancer: The mental trauma of severe disease

A study of 166 breast cancer patients found that 82.5% exhibited symptoms of PTSD following diagnosis, with more than half continuing to display symptoms one year later. The severity of psychological impact was underscored by the fact that some patients rated having breast cancer as their most severe traumatic event.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateMar 2, 2016

New approaches for Parkinson's treatment? Researchers study metabolic changes

A study published in Neurobiology of Disease found that neurons with a defective DJ1 gene experience oxidative stress and immune response imbalances due to disrupted glutamine and serine metabolism. This knowledge could lead to novel therapeutic strategies by targeting affected metabolic pathways.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateMar 2, 2016

Production practices evaluated for organic trailing blackberry

A study evaluated organic trailing blackberry production practices, recommending weed mat management to increase production and profits. Soil pH, organic matter content, and macronutrient concentrations were affected mainly by year and weed management strategy.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 2, 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.

Carbon nanotubes improve metal's longevity under radiation

Researchers have found that adding carbon nanotubes to aluminum can slow down the breakdown process caused by radiation exposure, allowing it to last longer. The new material has been shown to retain its strength and resilience even after prolonged irradiation, with reduced embrittlement and pores.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Energy·DateMar 2, 2016

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, March 2016

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing experimental pretreatments to improve the cost-effectiveness of biofuel production. A new app, FuelEconomy.gov, helps consumers make informed buying decisions and save fuel. Meanwhile, a heat pump technology developed by ORNL can reduce energy consumption in cold climates by u...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateMar 2, 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.

Unique outpatient clinic prioritizes physician training and expeditious patient care

The Ambulatory Diagnostic and Treatment Center (ADTC) Outpatient Clinic at Boston University School of Medicine emphasizes education alongside patient care, offering complex diagnoses and literature review opportunities. This model aims to reduce costs and readmissions by concentrating health care efforts on unstable patients.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateMar 2, 2016

First 3-D structure of the enzymatic role of DNA

Researchers have solved the first three-dimensional structure of a deoxyribozyme, a flexible DNA molecule that can act as an enzyme. This breakthrough challenges the long-held perception of DNA's stiffness and has significant implications for understanding molecular reactions and potential applications in medicine.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 2, 2016

Brief educational program can help curb dating violence among teens

A study by researchers at Bradley Hasbro Children's Research Center confirms that a brief educational program can effectively curb dating violence among teens. The Katie Brown Educational Program's five-session curriculum showed significant changes in students' attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge about relationships.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of School Health·DateMar 2, 2016

Shedding light on the day-night cycle

Researchers at WashU Medicine used whole brain scans to discover that different groups of neurons become active at different times of day, despite being on the same molecular clock. This reveals a new mechanism for encoding daily rhythms in neural signaling.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 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.

Common blood test could predict risk of 2nd stroke

Researchers linked high C-Reactive Protein levels to increased ischemic stroke risk, identifying gene variations that drive these risks. A new discovery may allow doctors to predict patients' risk of having a second stroke using a commonly performed blood test and their genetic profile.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNeurology·DateMar 2, 2016

ORNL researchers stack the odds for novel optoelectronic 2-D materials

Researchers used low-frequency Raman spectroscopy to decipher stacking patterns in 2D materials, revealing unique effects of vibrations between layers. The study provides a platform for engineering materials with optical and electronic properties strongly dependent on stacking configurations.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 2, 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.

A new weapon in the fight against children's brain tumors developed at U-M

Researchers developed a novel brain tumor model in mice with DNA damage-repair problems, which can help test new treatments for children's brain cancer. The model shows that treating tumors with DNA-damaging drugs can shrink them more effectively and improve survival.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 2, 2016

How well did an instant blood pressure app work?

A study found that an instant blood pressure app underestimated higher BPs and overestimated lower BPs, raising concerns about its accuracy. The app's inaccuracy may lead to false reassurance for individuals with hypertensive BP levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 2, 2016

Turning smokestack emissions into carbon nanotube-containing batteries

Scientists have developed a method to transform CO2 from smokestack emissions into high-value materials for lithium and sodium batteries. The process produces carbon nanotubes with stable performance, offering a potential solution for reducing environmental impact of current power plants.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 2, 2016

Lifetime breakthrough promising for low-cost and efficient OLED displays and lights

Researchers at Kyushu University developed a modification to increase the lifetime of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) by nearly 8 times, making them more suitable for practical applications. The modification involves adding thin layers of a lithium-containing molecule, reducing degradation and increasing efficiency.

SourceKyushu University, OPERA·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 1, 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.

NASA Goddard network maintains communications from space to ground

Goddard's Network Integration Center coordinates communications for Near Earth and Space Networks, ensuring reliable data transmission from space to ground. The center has been operational since Project Mercury and supports human spaceflight missions, including those in low-Earth orbit and beyond.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 1, 2016

Pregnancy vitamin D supplementation may help winter baby's bones

A new study found that vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy can increase bone mass in babies born during the winter months, potentially leading to stronger bones and a reduced risk of osteoporosis. The supplement showed no difference in overall bone mass but had a positive impact on children born during the colder months.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateMar 1, 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.

Moments of acute stress can cause molecular alterations in immune response

A study involving skydiving participants found that acute stress can cause molecular alterations in the immune response, leading to increased risk of stress-related conditions. The researchers identified specific genes and pathways involved in both innate and adaptive immune responses that were dysregulated after the jump.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMar 1, 2016

A new way to stretch DNA

Researchers have developed a new way to controllably manipulate biomolecules like DNA using acoustic force spectroscopy. The technique stretches molecules by applying varying forces in a precise way, shedding light on chemical bonding and mechanical properties.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateMar 1, 2016

Identity unearthed

A new study published in American Anthropologist reveals the transformation of Egyptian and Nubian culture through cultural entanglement. The researchers found that individual choices played a significant role in shaping the development of the Nubian state, allowing it to eventually conquer Egypt.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAmerican Anthropologist·DateMar 1, 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.

DTC genetic tests create conundrum for physicians, unrealistic expectations for patients

Direct-to-consumer genetic testing raises concerns about physicians' preparedness to discuss test results and potential downstream effects on the healthcare system. A study found that only a minority of consumers share their results with their doctor, often due to physician's inability to answer questions and address patient concerns.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 1, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

NREL collaboration boosts potential for CdTe solar cells

Researchers at NREL have improved the maximum voltage available from CdTe solar cells, breaking the 1V barrier and enabling more efficient electricity generation. The innovation could significantly reduce manufacturing costs and make solar energy more cost-competitive with traditional energy sources.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 1, 2016

Long-term stress erodes memory

Researchers at Ohio State University found that sustained stress impairs memory and cognitive function in mice, with inflammation caused by the immune system being a key factor. The study suggests potential targets for pharmacological or behavioral treatment to interrupt inflammation and improve memory.

SourceOhio State University·DateMar 1, 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.

Imaging shows impact of PTSD in earthquake survivors

A new study using MRI found that adult earthquake survivors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) had greater cortical thickness in certain brain regions and reduced volume in others compared to healthy survivors. Cortical thickness was positively correlated with PTSD severity, particularly in the left precuneus region.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 1, 2016

Zika virus medical countermeasures, challenges and opportunities

The Zika Response Working Group provides recommendations for countermeasures against the Zika virus, highlighting the need for open-minded responses and collaboration. Key findings include the potential of currently marketed drugs to have anti-Zika activity and the challenges of rapid vaccine development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 1, 2016

New climate study argues for carbon fee

A new study finds that climate change is becoming noticeable at mid-latitudes, especially in summer, with extreme events more frequent due to rising temperatures. The researchers argue that a carbon fee is needed to spur the transition to clean energy and reduce fossil fuel emissions.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 1, 2016

New method to stop Argentine ants

Researchers at UC Riverside have found a more environmentally friendly way to control the spread of Argentine ants by adding their pheromone to bait. The pheromone-infused gel bait reduced ant activity by 74%, compared to 42% with traditional baits, and is an inexpensive modification to existing products.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateMar 1, 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.

Better biopsies through biofluidics

Researchers have developed a new method to acquire three-dimensional atlases of tissue that provide much more information, incorporating data on tissue structure and molecular profile. The new technique enables doctors or researchers to peer into the tissue and identify specific proteins within cells throughout the whole tissue.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateMar 1, 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.

DNA as a weapon of immune defense

Scientists have found that a social amoeba uses both phagocytosis and DNA nets to defend against bacteria, similar to the human immune system. This discovery could lead to new treatments for chronic granulomatous disease and other immune disorders.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 2016

Twin study: Genetics and environment affect different regions of the brain

Researchers found that genetics play a major role in the bilateral parietal lobes and left temporal lobe, while environment dominates other brain regions. This study provides insights into how nature and environment interact to shape our brains, potentially informing the development of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 1, 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.

Study highlights need for better characterized genomes for clinical sequencing

A new study assesses genome-sequencing technologies and finds medically significant regions prone to systematic errors. The researchers call for methods to benchmark performance in all sequenced regions, essential for accurate diagnosis and prevention of false positives and negatives.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateMar 1, 2016

Using old drugs to treat new viruses

Researchers discovered that common drugs for psychosis and depression can prevent certain viruses from infecting cells by blocking potassium ion channels. This breakthrough finding has potential to stop deadly viruses from spreading and causing human disease.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 1, 2016