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Science News Archive August 2016


Page 15 of 38

Rx associated with fracture risk infrequently reduced after fracture occurrence

A study found that about three-quarters of patients were using medications associated with increased fracture risk before their fracture, and only a small proportion discontinued these drugs afterwards. The study suggests that some secondary fragility fractures may be preventable by managing high-risk drugs after a primary fracture event.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Fiona weakening from wind shear

Tropical Storm Fiona weakened significantly as NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured its image on Aug. 22. The storm's clouds were pushed east by strong westerly shear, leading to a decrease in organization and thunderstorm activity.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New flexible material can make any window 'smart'

A new flexible smart window material can control both heat and light from the sun using an electric charge, aiming to save on cooling and heating bills. The material's unique nanostructure doubles its efficiency compared to conventional high-temperature processes.

Umbilical cells shed light on how obesity may pass from mother to child

Infants of obese mothers exhibit impaired expression of genes regulating cell energy and metabolism, correlating with higher levels of metabolically deleterious lipids in their blood. This study may pave the way for improved healthcare and early interventions for children at risk of obesity.

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.

Hibernating pygmy-possums can sense danger even while dormant

Researchers found that hibernating pygmy-possums can detect smoke and respond to danger when their body temperatures reach around 24 degrees Celsius. However, at colder temperatures, their reactions are slow and basic. This study has implications for prescribed bushfires in Australia.

Light and matter merge in quantum coupling

Researchers successfully merge light and matter, creating a new condensed matter state with strongly coupled electrons. The discovery could advance technologies like quantum computers and communications by revealing new phenomena in cavity quantum electrodynamics.

Bioimaging: A clear view of the nervous system

A novel imaging technique allows visualization and monitoring of structural alterations in neuronal networks after traumatic brain damage, stroke, or aging processes. This enables detection and characterization of diseases like dementia, epilepsy, and metabolic disorders.

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.

Hope for reversing stroke-induced long-term disability

A new study found that a human protein combined with stem cell therapy can repair brain damage caused by stroke. The treatment, known as 3K3A-APC, was tested in mice and showed promising results, including the growth of functional neurons and improved motor function. Researchers believe this could pave the way for a potential breakthro...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Major changes needed to improve palliative care in Canada

A recent analysis calls for broader support for patients with serious chronic illnesses, moving away from end-of-life focus and expanding medical education. Canada ranks 18th worldwide in palliative care availability and must develop more strategies to promote care to patients with non-cancerous illnesses.

Fighting barnacle buildup with biology

A new study identifies a specific chain of proteins activated during barnacle metamorphosis, suggesting bacteria play a crucial role in their development. The findings could lead to the development of ship coatings that inhibit bacterial cues, mitigating biofouling issues.

Immune breakthrough: Unscratching poison ivy's rash

A Monash University and Harvard researchers have discovered the molecular cause of the itchy, painful rash caused by poison ivy. The finding identifies CD1a as a crucial immune molecule in mediating skin inflammation and irritation after contact with urushiol, a key player in triggering skin-based allergic reactions.

Cells' steering wheel

Researchers at IBS find PLEKHG3 plays a crucial role in cell polarity and migration, allowing fibroblasts to move faster. The discovery can benefit fields like cancer, immunology, and neurological research.

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.

One approach can prevent teen obesity, eating disorders, new guidelines say

According to new guidelines, physicians and parents can ward off problems at both ends of the weight spectrum by avoiding focusing teens' attention on weight or dieting. Family meals protect against weight problems, while promoting a balanced diet and regular exercise can help teenagers develop a healthy body image.

Ramen noodles supplanting cigarettes as currency among prisoners

A new study finds that inmates are using ramen noodles as a form of money due to declining prison food services, signaling a trend of punitive frugality. Inmates are trying to figure out ways to better feed themselves as services are being cut back, leading to the rise of underground economy practices.

Lousy jobs hurt your health by the time you're in your 40s

A nationwide study found that job satisfaction in late 20s and 30s has a significant impact on mental health in early 40s, with consistently low satisfaction linked to depression, sleep problems, and excessive worry. The study also showed that people whose job satisfaction started high but declined had more trouble sleeping and excessi...

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.

Watching thoughts -- and addiction -- form in the brain

Researchers have developed a new technique to observe brain activity in real-time, enabling them to study how we learn and develop addictions. The 'CNiFERs' tool measures the release of specific neurotransmitters, revealing the timing of dopamine surges during learning and addiction processes.

Researchers investigate environmental movements and neoliberalism

A study by University of Kansas researchers found that environmental organizations have shifted towards neoliberal policies, prioritizing economic expansion over radical changes. This shift has led to inadequate responses to climate change and other environmental issues.

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.

Syracuse, Cal State Fullerton awarded grant to enhance diversity in astrophysics

The Syracuse University-Cal State Fullerton partnership aims to recruit and expand the number of underrepresented students in gravitational-wave astronomy. The five-year project, funded by the National Science Foundation, will provide multiple three-year fellowships for CSUF students to transfer into Syracuse's Ph.D. program in physics.

Elongation by contraction

Scientists have found that cell boundary elongation is driven by the activity of actomyosin networks in neighboring cells, not within the same cell. This discovery sheds light on the complex processes involved in tissue development and organ specialization.

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.

Low protein diets may improve blood sugar regulation in obesity

Research by Adam Rose at German Cancer Research Center shows that low protein diets can improve glucose homeostasis and reduce metabolic disorders in obese mice. Low protein intake activates stress response pathways in the liver, promoting metabolic integrity.

Is divorce seasonal? Study shows biannual spike in divorce filings

Research from University of Washington sociologists reveals a seasonal pattern in divorce filings, peaking in March and August, following winter and summer holidays. The study suggests that the biannual spike may be driven by a 'domestic ritual' calendar governing family behavior.

Edible food packaging made from milk proteins (video)

Researchers have developed a biodegradable and edible film made from milk protein casein, which can block oxygen and prevent food spoilage. The packaging has the potential to replace traditional plastics and reduce food waste during distribution.

Stopping scars before they form

Researchers have identified a potential treatment for severe scarring by inhibiting an enzyme called lysyl oxidase, which enables collagen to crosslink and form scar tissue. The compounds, tested in a 'scar-in-a-jar' model, show promise in restoring normal tissue architecture.

Who are you? Squatters can actually help a neighborhood

A new study suggests that squatters can have a positive impact on neighborhoods. Residents often welcome responsible squatters to occupy abandoned homes, as it helps maintain the property and reduces crime. In urban areas with population decline, squatters can help bring about improved neighborhood conditions.

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.

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.

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.

Tall Poppy winner 'weeds out' bacterial superbugs

Dr. Makrina Totsika is developing a new class of drugs to treat antibiotic-resistant infections, a major threat to public health worldwide. Her research focuses on disarming superbugs rather than killing them, with promising results in preclinical animal models.

Paper-based device spots falsified or degraded medications (video)

Researchers developed a simple and inexpensive paper-based device to screen suspicious medications, detecting signs of adulteration or degradation. The device uses a $1 paper card with 12 lanes of reagents to identify potential quality issues, offering a cheap alternative to expensive analytical instrumentation.

Fungi recycle rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

Researchers are using naturally occurring fungi to extract valuable materials from waste batteries, including cobalt and lithium. The process uses oxalic acid and citric acid generated by the fungi to leach out the metals, with results showing up to 85% lithium and 48% cobalt extraction.

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.

American Ornithologists' Union honors 2016 awardees

The American Ornithologists' Union recognizes five individuals for their outstanding contributions to science and service. Dr. Patricia Parker, Dr. Michael Sorenson, Dr. John Fitzpatrick, Dr. Mary Caswell Stoddard, and Dr. James Herkert receive awards for their work in ecology, conservation, behavior, systematics, and more.