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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 392


Page 392 of 423

New in the Hastings Center Report: Next steps for epigenetics, big data and informed consent, whatever happened to human 'experimentation,' and more in the January-February 2016 issue

Recent epigenetics research highlights molecular mechanisms influencing gene expression through socioenvironmental factors. Big data raises concerns over immortalized participant data, privacy, and anonymity, prompting recommendations for strengthening ethical consent practices.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateFeb 1, 2016

Study strengthens evidence linking autism to maternal obesity-diabetes

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found a strong link between autism and maternal obesity-diabetes, with pregnant mothers 1.5 times more likely to have a child with ASD. The study used electronic medical records and analyzed birth data from over 35,000 mothers.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalAutism Research·DateFeb 1, 2016

New research sharpens understanding of poison-arrow hunting in Africa

A comprehensive study of the San peoples' hunting tradition in Namibia reveals the ingenious practice of using beetle and plant poisons to boost arrow lethality. The research provides new insights into the biological purpose of the poison, its application process, and its impact on prey.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalZooKeys·DateFeb 1, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study shows increased risk of early mortality in women with hypertensive disease

A study published in the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine's annual meeting found that women with a history of hypertensive disease during pregnancy have an increased risk of early mortality. The study analyzed birth certificates from 1939 to 2012 and found that these women had significantly higher rates of all-cause mortality, parti...

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2016

Study develops new equation for estimating gestational age

Researchers have created a new equation to estimate gestational age from fetal biometrics, showing a slight improvement in accuracy compared to the traditional Hadlock formula. The study validates the new formula using a large, multi-center dataset and demonstrates its potential to reduce unnecessary interventions like induction of labor.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2016

Rate of abuse in organizations serving youth

Child abuse in youth-serving organizations is a problem but much less common than family maltreatment. Verbal abuse was reported by most YSO survivors, with physical abuse and neglect occurring at lower rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 1, 2016
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.

Study finds significant cognitive impairment in adult survivors of childhood brain tumors

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that adult survivors of childhood brain tumors exhibit significant cognitive deficits in intelligence, educational achievement, and employment. The study also showed that hydrocephalus is associated with poor cognitive function, even decades after treatment.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 1, 2016

Lung health study published in top respiratory journal

A recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that over 40% of Malawian adults have abnormal lung function, highlighting a major public health concern. The research also exposes the high burden of biomass smoke exposure in Malawi, contributing to respiratory diseases.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2016

Unprecedented: Expedition recovers mantle rocks with signs of life

An international team of scientists has collected unprecedented rock samples from the shallow mantle of the ocean crust that bear signs of life and unique carbon cycling. The discovery may provide insights into how life developed on Earth and potentially exist elsewhere in the Universe.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·DateFeb 1, 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.

Scientific expedition to Antarctica will search for dinosaurs and more

An international team of researchers embarks on a monthlong expedition to Antarctica in search of ancient fossils, hoping to answer questions about the origins of modern bird and mammal groups. The team aims to uncover evidence of mammals from the Cretaceous period, which could shed light on evolutionary diversifications in Antarctica.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateFeb 1, 2016

Why do scientists chase unicorns?

A team of international scientists led by Maren Friesen from Michigan State University discovered a previously unknown bacteria that can fix its own nitrogen, a compound used in critical biological functions. The finding has significant implications for reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, making it a 'unicorn' worth chasing.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2016
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.

A highway for spin waves

Researchers at HZDR have developed a method for controlling the propagation of spin waves in a targeted and simple way, creating a basis for nanocircuits that use spin waves. This approach uses magnetic domain walls and small external magnetic fields to manipulate the course of spin waves, enabling efficient information processing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 1, 2016

Major storm events play key role in biogeochemistry of watersheds

A new study reveals that heavy weather events trigger 'pulse-shunt' of organic matter past small streams, affecting water chemistry and phytoplankton levels. This framework challenges existing concepts in watershed ecology and has implications for managing nutrient pollution and mercury inputs.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalEcology·DateFeb 1, 2016

Greater weight loss during aging associated with increased risk for MCI

An association between declining weight and an increased risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has been found, particularly among those who experience greater weight loss per decade from midlife to late life. The study suggests that this decline in weight may serve as a marker for MCI and help identify individuals at increased risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 1, 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.

Lava flow crisis averted (for now)

The 2014-2015 Pahoa lava flow crisis at Kilauea Volcano posed significant societal impact despite low effusion rates, highlighting the need for effective communication and public education during volcanic events. The crisis provided valuable lessons about predicting and mitigating lava flow hazards.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateFeb 1, 2016

New invention revolutionizes heat transport

Researchers at Aalto University have made a groundbreaking discovery in heat transport, enabling efficient cooling of quantum processors and paving the way for faster and more reliable quantum computing. The innovation uses photons to transfer heat over long distances, surpassing previous limitations.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 1, 2016

Delivering genes across the blood-brain barrier

Caltech biologists have developed a vector capable of noninvasive delivery of genetic cargo to adult mice brains, holding promise for novel therapeutics. The approach overcomes the blood-brain barrier problem, allowing for efficient gene delivery and targeting specific brain cells.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 1, 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.

Study documents drought's impact on redwood forest ferns

A recent study found that California's drought has severely impacted native ferns in redwood forests, causing permanent dieback and limiting their ability to photosynthesize. The study reveals that these plants can recover quickly after heavy rains but are vulnerable to pests and diseases due to prolonged water stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 1, 2016

Canada needs national body to set standards for coroners, medical examiners

A lack of national standards and training programs for coroners and medical examiners in Canada has significant implications for accurate cause of death determination. Creating a similar body to the UK's would improve investigation outcomes and enhance public health.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 1, 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.

Turning down the volume on cancer

University of Oklahoma researchers discovered that chromosome instability is a key player in the development of colon cancer. By analyzing gene expression signatures and pathways, they found promising findings for new treatments and prevention strategies. The study's results bring excitement to the field of cancer research and may have...

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 1, 2016

Uncovering the financial ties of advocates for cancer drug approval

An analysis of FDA advisory committee meetings found that over 90% of public speakers supported marketing approval for new cancer drugs, with many having financial ties to the companies. However, the study also highlights the importance of considering these ties when evaluating patient testimonies.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2016

Disruptions to embryonic reprogramming alter adult mouse behavior

Researchers found that defective epigenetic reprogramming in embryos can lead to abnormal repetitive behaviors and changes in brain wiring in adulthood. Studies using genetically engineered mice showed that the enzyme KDM1A plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression during development.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2016

Long-term marijuana use associated with worse verbal memory in middle age

A study of over 3,400 participants found that long-term marijuana use was associated with poorer verbal memory, but not other areas of cognitive function. The study suggests that young adults may be skeptical about the risks of marijuana use and highlights the need for effective health advice.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 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.

Young African-Americans underestimate stroke risk, according to nursing study

A recent study published in Journal of Neuroscience Nursing found that young African-Americans tend to inaccurately perceive their personal risk for stroke. The research highlights the need for increased education on stroke risk and linking poor health habits to stroke risk in this population.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalJournal of Neuroscience Nursing·DateFeb 1, 2016

Exact formula now available for measuring scientific success

A Polish team has developed an analytical method to predict the h-index, a key scientific measurement, using bibliometric data. The study provides an exact formula to calculate external citations and self-citations for each paper written by an author, opening doors for growth analysis in social networks and different scientific fields.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateFeb 1, 2016

Catalysts for heavy oil extraction developed at Kazan University

Researchers at Kazan University have developed catalysts that speed up heavy oil extraction under the conditions of in-situ combustion. The study, published in Energy and Fuels, shows promise for increasing efficiency in extracting heavy oil from Russia's vast reserves.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry·DateFeb 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.

'BPA-free' plastic accelerates embryonic development, disrupts reproductive system

New UCLA research demonstrates that BPS, a common replacement for BPA, speeds up embryonic development and disrupts the reproductive system. Exposure to low levels of BPA and BPS alters physiology in as quickly as 25 hours, leading to premature birth and disruption of reproductive endocrine brain cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEndocrinology·DateFeb 1, 2016

Researchers identify potential targeted therapy for lung cancer using fly model

A team of researchers used a fruit fly model to identify a potential targeted therapy for non-small cell lung cancer, which may lead to improved overall survival. The study found that combining two FDA-approved drugs suppressed tumor formation and inhibited key genetic mutations associated with NSCLC.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 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.

New method can assess quality of centers performing colonoscopies

A new quality measure has been developed to track the variation in colonoscopy quality among outpatient facilities using follow-up hospital visits. The study found that 16.3 per 1,000 outpatient colonoscopies result in unplanned hospital visits, with significant variation across facilities.

SourceYale University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateFeb 1, 2016

Electrons and liquid helium advance understanding of zero-resistance

Researchers at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology discover anomalies in electron behavior on liquid helium systems, shedding light on zero-resistance phenomenon in semiconductors. The study sheds new insights into quantum physics and its applications.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 1, 2016

Planning for a disease outbreak? There's a game for that

Researchers at Colorado State University are developing a multiplayer game to plan for disease outbreaks. The game uses powerful software to predict and analyze the severity of an outbreak, providing real-time visualizations such as heat maps of potential danger zones.

SourceColorado State University·DateFeb 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.

Small ponds produce an outsized share of greenhouse gases

A new study reveals that small ponds globally produce an outsized share of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide and methane. These tiny bodies of water, less than a quarter acre in size, account for significant emissions due to high concentrations of terrestrial carbon.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 1, 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.

Genetic cause identified in rare pediatric brain tumor

A recent study identified the genetic mechanism causing angiocentric gliomas, a rare type of low-grade glioma in children. The discovery revealed an unusual DNA abnormality that triggers three different mechanisms to produce a tumor, leading to the development of a diagnostic test.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 1, 2016

New model could solve inventory problem for retailers

Researchers developed a new mathematical model to apply to inventory problems, considering demand and determining optimal orders. The study aims to connect with businesses to assess the benefit of implementing the new model and curb profit losses.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateFeb 1, 2016

Researcher warns US could see substantial impact of Zika virus

Zika virus, a mosquito-borne disease, can cause microcephaly in infants and mild flu-like symptoms in adults and children. The US is at risk of introduction, particularly with the presence of Aedes species mosquitoes in many states.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 1, 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.

Future help for stroke patients with language problems

Researchers have developed a new analysis method to distinguish between stroke patients with language problems, enabling more individualized treatment. The method uses functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and combines information about brain lesions and activity patterns.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalBrain·DateFeb 1, 2016

For older adults, serious depression symptoms increase risk for stroke and heart disease

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that serious depression symptoms increase the risk of stroke and heart disease in older adults. The study discovered that adults with high levels of depressive symptoms had a significantly higher risk of experiencing heart disease or stroke events over a 1...

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 1, 2016