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Science News Archive December 2016 - Page 17


Page 17 of 32

Study finds American Indian adults exposed to early life trauma more likely to develop PTSD and poor health

A recent study published in the American Journal of Human Biology found that American Indian adults who experienced early life trauma are at a higher risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and poor physical health. The research highlights the importance of addressing early interventions to minimize this risk.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateDec 12, 2016

How hearing loss can change the way nerve cells are wired

Researchers at the University of Buffalo discovered that short-term hearing loss can cause auditory nerve cells to change their behavior and shape. The study found that these changes are related to neurotransmitters, with cells depleting their reserves and decreasing vesicle storage space when it's quiet.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateDec 12, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bullying makes men leave the labor market

Research from Aarhus University and University of Copenhagen finds that workplace bullying leads to men leaving labor market and affecting their salaries. Men are more likely to leave the job than women who take sick leaves after being bullied.

SourceAarhus University·JournalLabour Economics·DateDec 12, 2016

Rings around young star suggest planet formation in progress

Researchers have mapped gases in three dark rings around a distant star, indicating the presence of planets that are clearing dust and gas from the outer rings. However, one inner ring remains mysterious, with more carbon monoxide than expected, leaving scientists to investigate alternative explanations for its formation.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 12, 2016

Public willing to pay to reduce toxic algae -- but maybe not enough

Researchers found three key agricultural management plans to curb toxic algae blooms and discovered that Ohio residents are willing to help pay for these practices. However, the funding gap for implementing these plans is significant, with farmers already adopting only 20% of necessary practices.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 12, 2016

Mitigating the risk of geoengineering

Researchers have identified an aerosol, calcite, that can counter ozone loss while reflecting light and cooling the planet. The discovery aims to mitigate the risks of solar geoengineering by neutralizing sulfuric acid emissions.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 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.

Nutrition program improves food stamp family's food security

A nutrition education program in Indiana improved food security for participating families by 25%, according to a Purdue University study. The program, SNAP-Ed, teaches practical ways to stretch food dollars while eating nutritiously, with lessons focusing on maximizing the food budget and nutritional components.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateDec 12, 2016

Leibniz Prize awarded to RNA researcher Jörg Vogel

Jörg Vogel, a leading RNA researcher, has been awarded the €2.5m Leibniz Prize for his seminal contribution to understanding regulatory RNA molecules in infection biology. His research could lead to new ways to fight pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateDec 12, 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.

Worm treatment strategy could benefit millions of kids

A landmark study shows treating adults alongside children with intestinal worms can improve health outcomes for millions of kids worldwide. The research suggests a community-wide deworming approach is more effective than targeting only children.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 12, 2016

Scientists use 'molecular-Lego' to take CRISPR gene-editing tool to the next level

Researchers have developed a new enzyme called TevCas9, which cuts DNA in two places instead of one, making it more difficult for DNA-repair to regenerate the site of the cut. This modification shows promise at being more specific in targeting genes and less likely to cause off-target effects.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2016

Rare obesity syndrome therapeutic target identified

A deficiency of prohormone covertase (PC1) in the brain is linked to most neuro-hormonal abnormalities in Prader-Willi syndrome. The discovery provides insight into molecular mechanisms underlying the syndrome, highlighting a novel target for drug therapy.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 12, 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.

Insufficient evidence to support use of homeopathy in livestock

A comprehensive review of homeopathy in livestock found that many clinical trials have methodological limitations, making it difficult to draw conclusions about its effectiveness. The review suggests that more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using homeopathy in food-producing animals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateDec 12, 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.

Young professionals speak out on achieving equity in pediatrics

A recent publication from the Medica Research Institute highlights the need for addressing workforce disparities in pediatrics. Young investigators and seasoned researchers discuss key challenges, such as racism and discrimination, and offer guidance on career development and mentorship.

SourceMedica Research Institute·JournalInternational Journal for Equity in Health·DateDec 12, 2016

Researchers identify mental health screening tools, barriers for Latino children

A new study identifies four culturally sensitive mental health screening tools that can be used by pediatricians to screen Latino children. The tools assess emotional and behavioral problems and are available in Spanish, with one including pictorial cues. The researchers hope that these tools will increase primary care pediatricians' c...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateDec 12, 2016

Winds of rubies and sapphires strike the sky of giant planet

Researchers have discovered powerful changing winds on a gas giant planet, HAT-P-7b, which is 16 times larger than Earth and orbits a star 50% more massive and twice as large as the Sun. The planet's atmosphere is affected by strong winds moving across the planet, leading to catastrophic storms.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 12, 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.

Physician volume affects outpatient care

A population-based cohort study found that primary care physicians with higher ambulatory volumes deliver lower-quality diabetes care, while those with higher diabetes-specific volumes provide better care. The study's results suggest a clear association between physician volume and quality of diabetes management.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 12, 2016

New research reveals extent of human threat to lion populations

Two studies led by Oxford University scientists found that human activities caused 88% of male lion deaths in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. The research highlights the risks faced by lions when they enter farmland or hunting areas, and the need for improved trophy hunting management to protect populations.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateDec 12, 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.

Holy batcave! Personal sighting leads UT's Dinets to new data on spectral bat

Vladimir Dinets finds evidence of spectral bats living in caves and roosting in Utila's secondary forests, adapting to human presence through social media accounts and tourist photos. The discovery reveals the species' potential for longevity and challenges previous assumptions about its habitat.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalMammalia·DateDec 12, 2016

The sea roils and life returns

After the 2011 tsunami, Japanese researchers found that small fish with short lifespans recovered first, followed by larger fish with longer lifespans, stabilizing populations and increasing body lengths. The study also discovered a brief invasion period, but ultimately, cold-water species began to prey on invading species.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 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.

Anti-tumor synergy

Researchers have developed biocompatible nanocapsules that transport glucose oxidase and L-arginine into tumor cells, starving them of nutrients while releasing toxic nitrogen monoxide. This synergistic treatment concept successfully inhibits cell growth, initiates cell death, and shrinks tumors in mice.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 12, 2016

New epilepsy gene network identified by scientists

Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a gene network of 320 genes associated with epilepsy. The M30 network is thought to be involved in how brain cells communicate with each other and its malfunction triggers seizures. Finding medications that restore this network could provide new treatments for the condition.

SourceImperial College London·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 12, 2016

Faster (cheaper) method for making big bioactive ring molecules

Researchers create single-step synthesis of cyclic depsipeptides in large sizes, up to 60 atoms, with controlled size distribution. The new process enables efficient production of bioactive molecules for various applications, including antibiotics and pesticides.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 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.

New robot has a human touch

A team of researchers at Cornell University has created a soft robotic hand that can sense its surroundings through internal curvature, elongation, and force sensors. The hand uses stretchable optical waveguides to detect changes in light transmission, allowing it to grasp and probe objects with human-like sensitivity.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Robotics·DateDec 12, 2016

Direct observation of graphene decoupling on Cu(111)

Researchers successfully separate graphene from metal growth substrates using a novel transfer method. The study reveals the role of graphene nanoribbon edges in weakening the pre-elongated O-O bond at the graphene-Cu interface.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 12, 2016

'Rewired' cells show promise for targeted cancer therapy

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a method to 'rewire' human immune cells to sense and respond to tumor signals, potentially overcoming immunosuppression in cancer treatment. The customized function could also be useful in fighting other diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 12, 2016

NIH funds $2 million study of caregivers of relatives with bipolar disorder

A new NIH-funded study aims to test ways family members can maintain their health while caring for relatives with bipolar disorder. Researchers will match caregivers with tailored self-management techniques, including breathing exercises and training in self-help skills, to reduce stress and improve overall health.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateDec 12, 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.

New anode material set to boost lithium-ion battery capacity

Researchers developed a new type of anode material that improves lithium-ion battery capacity and lifespan by addressing structural issues with conventional graphite anodes. The new material, using silicon-nanolayer-embedded graphite/carbon, shows superior battery performances and is mass-producible.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 12, 2016

The antibody that normalizes tumor vessels

Researchers discovered an antibody that normalizes tumor blood vessels, reducing volume and improving anti-cancer drug delivery. The antibody, ABTAA, restores vascular integrity in breast, lung, and brain tumors, leading to better oxygen supply and reduced metastasis.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCancer Cell·DateDec 12, 2016

What satellites can tell us about how animals will fare in a changing climate

Satellite observations help scientists forecast impacts of habitat changes on animal populations. Studies predict a 30 percent drop in the global polar bear population over the next 35 years due to sea ice loss. Satellite data also indicate that droughts in North America will affect migratory herbivores and their predators.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalBiology Letters·DateDec 12, 2016

Researchers explain why feather shafts change shape when under stress

The study reveals that the square shape provides greater rigidity and higher resistance to ovalization and buckling than a hollow round shape of the same weight. This unique adaptation enables birds to fly with optimized stiffness and lightness, inspiring advanced engineering designs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 12, 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.

Distant phenomena influence climate in South America

Research highlights the role of oceans in climate variability and how year-to-year weather variations are impacted by anthropogenic factors. The study suggests that reduced predictability will hinder seasonal weather forecasts, affecting agriculture and energy sectors.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 12, 2016

Reseracher finds 'identity loan' common in undocumented workers

A new study by University of Colorado Denver researcher Sarah Horton challenges common portrayals of identity theft in workplaces dominated by undocumented immigrants. Many employers furnish workers with invented or borrowed work authorization documents, a practice she has termed 'identity loan'. This study highlights the active role e...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalPoLAR Political and Legal Anthropology Review·DateDec 12, 2016

Sawdust reinvented into super sponge for oil spills

Researchers at PNNL have chemically modified sawdust to make it exceptionally oil-attracting and buoyant. The material absorbs up to five times its weight in oil and stays afloat for at least four months, ideal for cleaning oil spills in the Arctic.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateDec 12, 2016

Remote sensing is becoming increasingly important in biodiversity research

The article discusses the importance of remote sensing in biodiversity research, highlighting its potential to measure biological diversity, identify species, and track ecosystem processes. However, field studies are still necessary to provide crucial information on ecological potency, stress behavior, and adaptability.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEcological Indicators·DateDec 12, 2016

$1.125 million NCI grant funds TGen-led boot camp for cancer doctors

The NCI grant supports the Methods in Clinical Cancer Research Workshop, a one-week boot camp for new oncologists taught by Dr. Daniel Von Hoff and leading experts. The program helps train clinical researchers to improve cancer clinical trial design, increasing the number of effective interventions available to patients worldwide.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateDec 12, 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.

Integrated approach vital for fisheries management

A new study reveals that overfishing can lead to evolutionary changes in fish populations, adapting them to mature earlier and at smaller sizes. The researchers found a combination of density dependence and life-history evolution likely responsible for observed changes in fish size.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2016

New laser scanning test to assess fire-damaged concrete

Researchers at University of Nottingham have developed a new laser scanning test to assess fire-damaged concrete structural safety. The technique uses terrestrial laser scanning to detect damage and provides an accurate assessment of the material's strength changes when heated to elevated temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Civil Structural Health Monitoring·DateDec 12, 2016

Bed bug education program promotes awareness, prevention in schools

A collaborative group of insect scientists, educators, and professionals created a Bed Bugs and Book Bags curriculum to educate teachers and children about bed bugs. The program, available for free, includes hands-on activities and learning topics to promote awareness and prevention.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalAmerican Entomologist·DateDec 12, 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.