Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive August 2016 - Page 36


Page 36 of 38

Giant forest fires exterminate spotted owls, long-term study finds

A new study on the King Fire in California finds that even large, intense fires like this one do not exterminate spotted owls. In fact, owl populations may be resilient to megafires, contrary to previous studies, which suggests a reevaluation of forest thinning and prescribed burns as conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateAug 2, 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.

Combat exposure may jeopardize the behavioral health of women in the military

A recent study found that combat exposure among Army enlisted women was associated with an increased likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and at-risk drinking after deployment. Women with combat exposure were 20 times more likely to screen positive for PTSD compared to those with no exposure.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateAug 2, 2016

Trees on farms: The missing link in carbon accounting

A recent study reveals that tree cover on agricultural land has increased globally, capturing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and potentially playing a significant role in mitigating climate change. The research highlights the importance of agroforestry systems in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 2, 2016

Heritability of thoracic spine curvature

A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that heritability of thoracic spine curvature is significant, with a heritability score of 54%, suggesting genetic control. This discovery may inform prevention efforts for hyperkyphosis, a condition causing breathing, walking, and daily life difficulties.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 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.

Managing uncertainty: How soil carbon feedbacks could affect climate change

A new study calls for collaboration between modelers and soil scientists to improve understanding of soil carbon turnover and its potential impact on climate feedbacks. The researchers aim to increase confidence in climate projections by representing a range of ideas about how the world works in models.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 2, 2016

Depression screening tools not accurate for children and adolescents

Researchers found that existing depression screening tools do not accurately identify 6- to 18-year-olds with depression. The study suggests that these tools may incorrectly label non-depressed children as depressed, leading to potential misuse of psychiatric medications and resources.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 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.

NASA looks at historic flooding from slow-moving Maryland storms

NASA's IMERG data revealed strong bands of heavy rain extending east-west over north-central Maryland, with localized areas experiencing higher rates. The area affected suffered devastating flooding, including the historic town of Ellicott City, where two people drowned and numerous cars were damaged.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 2016

Researchers image brain cells' reactions to concussive trauma

A Brown University study used a custom-built device to compress neurons in 3-D cell cultures and observed their reaction to traumatic brain injury. The findings suggest that there may be a window for therapeutic intervention aimed at minimizing further damage, with irreparable structural damage occurring after approximately six hours.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 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.

Bacteria show capacity for rapid, beneficial mutations

A study published in Nature found that the majority of new genetic mutations in E. coli bacteria are beneficial and occur at variable rates, contrary to previous assumptions. This discovery has implications for treating bacterial infections and may impact personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2016

What can a sea-lion teach us about musicality?

Researchers found that a sea lion named Ronan can keep the beat better than any other non-human animal, suggesting that beat-keeping abilities may be more ancient and widespread than thought. The study used mathematical equations to analyze Ronan's brain activity while she moved to different rhythms.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 2, 2016

Flow diagnostics breakthrough for hydraulic capsule pipeline

Researchers have developed mathematical models that can ensure new pipeline systems are designed economically and efficiently. The models use computational fluid dynamics to predict the optimum design for hydraulic capsule pipelines, which can convey bulk solids effectively.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalInternational Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping·DateAug 2, 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.

Reach in and touch objects in videos

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL have developed an imaging technique called Interactive Dynamic Video (IDV) that lets users reach in and interact with objects in videos. By analyzing video clips for 'vibration modes,' the team can predict how objects will move in new situations, enabling realistic simulations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateAug 2, 2016

Crystallization frustration predicts metallic glass formation

A new study from Duke University predicts which binary alloys will form metallic glasses, paving the way for strong and conductive materials. The technique involves analyzing structures and energies within solidified alloys to identify potential metallic glasses.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 2016

Stem cells may speed up screening of drugs for rare cancers

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have developed a system using transformed human stem cells to speed up screening of existing drugs for rare brain and other cancers. This method enables more confident comparison with human cells, leading to promising treatments like CDK inhibitors for Group 3 medulloblastoma.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateAug 2, 2016

Personalized virtual brains: Big data -- big theory

Researchers at Charité are developing a personalized virtual brain model using big data and advanced simulations. They aim to improve our understanding of cognitive performance by analyzing the interaction between individual brain components.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateAug 2, 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.

More accurate prostate cancer prognosis

A new scheme improved prostate cancer prognosis by grouping men into 5 strata based on clinical measurements like PSA level, disease stage, and tumor grade. This method performed better in predicting cancer death compared to the current risk stratification system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 2, 2016

Ultracompact photodetector

Researchers at KIT have created a novel type of photodetector that can transmit information at speeds of up to 40 gigabits per second, using surface plasmon polaritons to combine optics and electronics on a tiny space. The smallest photodetectors worldwide for optical data transmission can be used for integrated optical circuits.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalOptica·DateAug 2, 2016

TSRI researchers find 'lead actors' in immune cell development

Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) found that members of a cluster of microRNAs work together throughout the stages of immune cell generation. Different miRNAs dominate different stages as disease-targeting immune cells develop, guiding the development of therapies against autoimmune diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 2016

Study shows cell-free DNA sequencing is more accurate for diagnosing myelodysplastic syndrome

A new study published in Genetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers found that analyzing cell-free DNA using next-generation sequencing is more accurate than the current standard approach of Sanger sequencing. This method can detect genetic abnormalities responsible for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with greater sensitivity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateAug 2, 2016

Many physicians still prescribe controversial drug combination

A significant number of patients on clopidogrel therapy are also prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) omeprazole or esomeprazole, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. Despite regulatory warnings, many physicians have continued to prescribe this combination.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateAug 2, 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.

Research targets number one killer of under-5s

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a machine learning tool to diagnose childhood pneumonia more accurately and cost-effectively. The tool uses data from basic equipment such as pulse oximeters, thermometers, and stethoscopes, achieving high sensitivity and specificity rates compared to existing guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateAug 2, 2016

New study supports link between alcohol advertising and adolescent drinking

A recent study found a positive association between adolescents' exposure to various types of alcohol marketing and their increased drinking frequency. The research suggests that restricting the volume of alcohol marketing to which young people are exposed could help reduce youth drinking. The findings support demands for stricter regu...

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·DateAug 2, 2016

Study uses GPS technology to predict football injuries

Researchers found that high levels of acceleration, total distance covered, and short bursts of speed are linked to increased injury risk. The study provides guidelines for reducing injury occurrence in elite youth football by organizing training sessions to fluctuate between high and low workloads.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateAug 2, 2016

Promoting regulatory T cell production may help control atherosclerosis

Research led by Catherine Hedrick found that removing ATP-binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1) from immune cells increases regulatory T cell production, decreases pro-inflammatory T cells, and reduces atherosclerotic lesions in mice. This suggests that therapies targeting ABCG1 could help control atherosclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 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.

Colonel Sanders was ahead of his time

A recent study found that visual cues, such as photos of stores or business owners, can reassure wary online shoppers and increase purchases. The research suggests that including these elements can help small retailers overcome the constraints of distance and anonymity in e-commerce.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateAug 2, 2016

Hysterectomy with ovary conservation doubles odds of hot flushes, night sweats

A University of Queensland study found that over a decade after hysterectomy with ovary conservation, nearly one-third of women experienced persistent hot flushes, while almost half suffered from frequent night sweats. The study suggests an abrupt decline in estrogen levels may contribute to this increased risk.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalMaturitas·DateAug 2, 2016

The Lancet: Infections with the parasitic worm W bancrofti associated with increased risk of HIV infection, according to Tanzanian study

A Tanzanian study has found that people infected with the parasitic worm W bancrofti in areas where HIV is endemic are more likely to acquire HIV. The study, published in The Lancet, suggests that controlling lymphatic filariasis could prevent incident HIV infections among the 120 million people living with this chronic infection.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 2, 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.

The great evolutionary smoke out: An advantage for modern humans?

A team of Penn State researchers identified a genetic mutation in modern humans that increased their tolerance to toxic smoke and fire. This mutation, found only in humans, may have given ancient humans an edge over Neandertals, who were more susceptible to respiratory problems and cellular toxicity.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 2, 2016

NASA's new CO2 sounder nearly ready for prime time

The CO2 Sounder Lidar is a strong contender for the ASCENDS mission, which aims to measure global atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. The instrument uses advanced technologies, including a highly sensitive solid-state detector and a rapidly tuning laser system, to achieve unprecedented precision and resolution.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 2016

Treatment strategy under development has 2 arms to get a secure grip on cancer

Scientists have developed a novel combination of an aptamer and siRNAs to target two tumor-dependent genes in prostate cancer cells. This approach shows promise for effective, less toxic gene therapies for various cancers. The strategy uses two 'missiles' to bind to specific proteins, increasing its grip on cancer targets.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateAug 2, 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.

High schoolers with mental health issues more likely to use alcohol, tobacco, & marijuana

Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that high school students with psychiatric symptoms were more likely to use substances like alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. The study highlights the link between mental health issues and substance use among teenagers in Brazil.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal on Addictions·DateAug 2, 2016

Brazil faces major challenges in liver transplantation

Brazil performs more liver transplant surgeries than Latin America and globally ranks third in absolute terms. However, the country's increasing population and inadequate donor organ supply lead to only 5-10 liver transplants per million population annually.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateAug 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.

Faintest hisses from space reveal famous star's past life

Astronomers have peer into a nearby star's past, using low-frequency radio observations to fine-tune our understanding of stellar explosions. The team found the red supergiant lost matter at a slower rate and generated slower winds, improving knowledge of space composition.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 1, 2016

Found: A potential new way to sway the immune system

A new study by TSRI scientists identifies microRNA-155 as a key player in regulating protein levels and combating disease. The researchers found that miR-155 works by repressing a protein called Peli1, promoting normal T cell proliferation and antibody production.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 1, 2016

Discovery sheds light on new strategy to treat some instances of preterm labor

Researchers found that blocking specific cell signaling pathways may reduce the risk of preterm labor caused by inflammation or stop it altogether. The study also identified key molecules in the Notch signaling pathway, paving the way for therapies to control preterm labor in humans.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateAug 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.

NASA spots Tropical Storm Howard developing in Eastern Pacific

Tropical Storm Howard forms in Eastern Pacific after intensifying from Tropical Depression 9E, becoming the ninth storm of the season with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph. The storm is expected to strengthen further before weakening over cooler waters.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2016

More is better when it comes to online product selection

Research suggests that online product selection leads to increased customer spending, with popular and niche items generating significant revenue for retailers. Customers spend almost 11% more on main offerings and 250% more on hard-to-find niche items compared to catalog shoppers.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateAug 1, 2016

Study examines symptom spikes in kids after concussion

Symptom spikes, also called exacerbations, were found to be common in children after concussion, with about one-third experiencing them. The study suggests that returning to full activities too quickly increases the risk of a symptom spike, but these events may not be clinically significant.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 1, 2016
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Brain & Behavior Research Foundation announces Klerman-Freedman Prizes

The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation awarded six young scientists the Klerman & Freedman Prizes for their innovative clinical and basic research. The prizes recognize outstanding talent in neuropsychiatry and aim to advance understanding of mental illness, develop new diagnostic tools, and create effective treatments.

SourceBrain & Behavior Research Foundation·DateAug 1, 2016

A new leaf: Scientists turn carbon dioxide back into fuel

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory develop new method to convert CO2 into carbon monoxide, a reactant for making methanol fuel. The process is efficient and uses minimal energy, with the catalyst lasting over 100 hours.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2016

Racial disparity in breast reconstruction? African-American women more likely to undergo autologous reconstruction

Researchers found that African-American women were twice as likely to choose autologous breast reconstruction over implant-based reconstruction. The study of 2,500 women undergoing breast reconstruction suggests patient preferences may play a role in the disparity. Further research is needed to confirm findings and evaluate potential r...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateAug 1, 2016

'Generic' biologic drugs appear comparable to brand-name counterparts

A new study suggests that generic biologic drugs are as safe and effective as their brand-name counterparts, offering a cheaper alternative for consumers and the healthcare system. The findings have significant implications for the pharmaceutical market, with wide adoption of biosimilars expected to save billions of dollars.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 1, 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.