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Science News Archive December 2016 - Page 2


Page 2 of 32

Predicting and preventing violence against criminal justice officials

A scoring system, known as Dr. Logan's triage tool, can help law enforcement identify high-risk individuals who may pose a threat to criminal justice officials. The tool assesses danger-related factors such as rule breaking, violence at a young age, and substance abuse to predict attacks against police, judges, and other officials.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViolence and Gender·DateDec 28, 2016

Cycling in bed is safe for ICU patients: Hamilton study

Researchers at McMaster University have demonstrated that early in-bed cycling sessions can safely start with critically ill ICU patients. The TryCYCLE study shows cycling within four days of mechanical ventilation can help these patients walk farther upon hospital discharge.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 28, 2016

Study provides evidence on movement of potato famine pathogen

A study by NC State researchers analyzed 183 phytophthora infestans samples from across the globe to track the pathogen's movement. FAM-1 lineage was found in US, Europe, and Colombia, suggesting a South American origin. The pathogen has caused massive disease outbreaks worldwide, with billions spent annually on control measures.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 28, 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.

Lotus stir-fry scores high in consumer panels

A new study reveals a niche market opportunity for locally cultivated lotus rhizomes in the US, with participants preferring stir-fry over other preparations. The research suggests potential demand for fresh lotus rhizomes among health-conscious individuals.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 28, 2016

New Neiman Health Policy Institute reports examine MACRA's impact on radiologists

The reports found that CMS' proposed criteria for special considerations would result in many radiologists being evaluated using measures not reflective of their practice. Alternative criteria could help ensure fair opportunities for success in performance review under MIPS.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateDec 28, 2016

Antibiotic resistance just became more complex

Researchers found that susceptible bacteria can survive longer when resistant bacteria are present and even outcompete them. This new understanding can inform doctors on how to use antibiotics more effectively, but also highlights the need for a personalized-medicine approach.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 27, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The neighborhood effect: Sicker patients draw on shared resources

A recent study published in JAMA found that patients on the same hospital ward are at increased risk of their own medical crises when a neighboring patient becomes critically ill. The odds of a second patient experiencing a comparable crisis increase by up to 53% if two critical-illness events occur within a six-hour period.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateDec 27, 2016

Control algorithms could keep sensor-laden balloons afloat in hurricanes for a week

Researchers at UC San Diego developed practical strategies for building and coordinating balloons within hurricanes, using GPS and cellphone-grade sensors. The approach leverages control theory to distribute balloons horizontally and mitigate turbulence fluctuations, enabling improved in-situ sampling and forecasts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateDec 27, 2016

Bat calls contain wealth of discernible information

Researchers at Tel Aviv University analyzed 15,000 bat vocalizations to identify concrete evidence of socially sophisticated species that learns communication. They found that bat calls contain information about the identity of the caller and addressee, as well as specific aggressive context and possible outcome of conversation.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 27, 2016

Jawing away: Bahama pupfish study identifies candidate genes driving food-niches

A recent study on Bahama pupfish has identified 12 million single DNA mutations associated with jaw size differences and specialized diets. The researchers found novel candidate genes linked to large jaws and small jaws, highlighting the complexity of ecological specialization in this species.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateDec 27, 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.

Investigations of the skyrmion Hall effect reveal surprising results

Scientists at JGU and MIT achieved billion-fold reproducible motion of special magnetic textures, called skyrmions, between different positions, taking a critical step towards applying skyrmions in spintronic devices. The skyrmion Hall angle was also investigated, revealing an unexpected dependency on the velocity of the skyrmions.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 27, 2016

The high cost of home care for special-needs children

A new study by USC researchers finds that US families provide nearly $36 billion in uncompensated medical care to children with special health care needs each year. These caregivers spend an estimated 5.1 hours per week providing care, which can be time-intensive and emotionally stressful.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 27, 2016

Diabetes, heart disease, and back pain dominate US health care spending

A new analysis of US health spending reveals that just 20 conditions account for half of all spending, with diabetes, ischemic heart disease, and low back and neck pain being the top three. Total personal health care spending reached $2.4 trillion in 2013, with women aged 85 and older spending the most per person on healthcare.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalJAMA·DateDec 27, 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.

High-intensity light promotes anthocyanin accumulation in rough bluegrass

Researchers found that high-intensity light treatment significantly increases anthocyanin content in rough bluegrass, comparable to or greater than many common fruits and vegetables. This study suggests using turfgrasses like rough bluegrass as a sustainable source for anthocyanin extract production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 27, 2016

Einstein secures $160 million NIH funding in 2016

Einstein secured over $160 million in NIH funding in 2016 to support major research projects in aging, intellectual and developmental disabilities, diabetes, cancer, and infectious diseases. The grants also enabled the establishment of new research centers and collaborations with Montefiore Medical Center.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateDec 27, 2016

Campus composting programs effective in educating students

A study found that campus composting programs effectively raise students' knowledge of composting and environmental issues. The programs also promote a more internal locus of control, encouraging students to take action towards solving future environmental problems.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 27, 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.

Stability without junctions

Researchers discovered that cadherin clusters prevent cortical deformation by acting as structural anchors in the cell membrane. This new function of non-junctional cadherin clusters regulates cortical movement and stability, allowing for essential processes like cytokinesis to occur without dramatic changes.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 27, 2016

Out of gas and low on sperm?

Researchers at Kyoto University found that the Myc gene regulates stem cell self-renewal in mice, leading to a slower rate of proliferation and impaired energy production. This discovery may lead to new treatments for infertility by stimulating sperm cell metabolism.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 27, 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.

Study finds hospital ICU overused

A study by LA BioMed and UCLA researchers found that over 50% of hospital ICU admissions could have been cared for in less expensive settings. Nearly 65% of ICU days were allocated to discretionary monitoring, which is not necessary for patients who are too well or too sick.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 27, 2016

Endometrial cancer driver mutations detectable in uterine lavage fluid

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that mutations driving endometrial cancer can be detected in uterine lavage fluid of pre- and post-menopausal women, regardless of their cancer status. The presence of these mutations was positively associated with age and post-menopause, highlighting the potential for non-invasive screening met...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 27, 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.

National study documents value of family-provided medical care for children

A national study led by Boston Children's Hospital found that families provide an estimated $36 billion worth of unpaid medical care to 5.6 million children with special health care needs. The study also estimates a loss of $18 billion in household income due to parents taking time off work to care for their children.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 27, 2016

Treating cancer with drugs for diabetes and hypertension

A combination of metformin and syrosingopine drives cancer cells to programmed 'suicide' by blocking their energy supply, inhibiting growth and inducing tumor cell death. The treatment shows promise for targeting the energy needs of tumor cells.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 27, 2016

'Friendship Bench' program proves effective at alleviating mental illness symptoms

The Friendship Bench program has shown significant results in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms among participants. After six weekly therapy sessions, patients who received problem-solving therapy on the benches had fewer symptoms of depression (14%) compared to those in a control group (50%). The program has the potential to im...

SourceGrand Challenges Canada·JournalJAMA·DateDec 27, 2016

Realistic training for extreme flight conditions

Researchers at TUM develop new simulation software that combines flow mechanics and flight dynamics in real-time, allowing pilots to prepare for challenging situations like flying near ships or mountains. The program has been validated with reference models and will be tested with experienced pilots.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateDec 27, 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.

Cool-season vegetable rotation effective, sustainable practice

Researchers found that pairing cool-season cash crops like onion, broccoli, and lettuce with warm-season cover crops can alleviate challenges in midscale organic production. The study suggests that these rotations can produce high-value certified organic vegetables while maintaining soil organic carbon.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 27, 2016

How much money is spent on health care for kids, where does it go?

Healthcare spending on children in the US grew from $149.6 billion in 1996 to $233.5 billion in 2013, with the highest expenditures on well-newborn care, ADHD treatment, and dental care. The study highlights the need to analyze driving factors behind increased healthcare spending to determine its impact on processes and outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 27, 2016

Dental implants with antibacterial activity

Scientists at the University of the Basque Country have created coatings for dental implants that can prevent bacterial colonization and adhesion. The new coatings were developed using sol-gel synthesis and added antibacterial agents, achieving successful results in preventing osseointegration problems and infections.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Non-Crystalline Solids·DateDec 26, 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.

Scientists develop method to warn of toxic algae blooms before they develop

Scientists have developed a method to predict full-scale algae blooms in lakes and reservoirs, enabling resource managers to take action before they develop. Automated monitoring systems that identify regime shifts can detect early warnings more than two weeks prior to the bloom.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 26, 2016

Synthetic stem cells could offer therapeutic benefits, reduced risks

Researchers have developed synthetic stem cells that mimic natural cardiac stem cells, promoting tissue repair and reducing risks of tumor growth and immune rejection. These cells are more durable, can be used off-the-shelf, and can tolerate harsh freezing and thawing.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 26, 2016

Scientists develop novel assay to decode functional elements of genome

Researchers have created a novel method called RESA to identify mRNA-regulatory sequences in embryos, providing insights into the maternal-to-zygote transition and gene regulation. This breakthrough has broad applications for studying genetics and biology across various species.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 26, 2016

Sprinting towards extinction? Cheetah numbers crash globally

The cheetah is sprinting towards extinction with only 7,100 individuals remaining, highlighting the need for landscape-wide conservation efforts. The species' dramatic decline is driven by habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal trafficking, requiring a paradigm shift in conservation approaches.

SourcePanthera·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 26, 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.

Experimental therapy for Prader-Willi syndrome shows promise in mice

Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), a rare genetic disorder affecting children, by activating silenced genes. The NIH-funded study found that two drugs, UNC0638 and UNC0642, improved survival and growth outcomes in mice with PWS.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 26, 2016

Nanodiscs deliver personalized cancer therapy to immune system

Researchers at the University of Michigan have successfully tested nanodiscs in mice for personalized cancer immunotherapy. The therapeutic vaccine targets cancer mutations and generates T-cells that recognize unique neoantigens, leading to the elimination of cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 26, 2016

Study: Hospital readmission rates decrease after passage of ACA financial penalties

A new analysis found that hospitals with high readmission rates for Medicare patients with certain health conditions saw significant decreases after the passage of the Affordable Care Act's Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program. The poorest performing hospitals achieved the greatest reductions in readmission rates, suggesting that fi...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 26, 2016

Potential drug appears to ease effects of Prader-Willi syndrome

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a potential treatment for Prader-Willi syndrome using G9a inhibitors. The study suggests that these small molecules can activate the maternal copy of the gene responsible for the disorder, leading to improved growth and lifespan in mice with Prader-Willi syndrome.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 26, 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.

Naturally occurring mechanism of cancer drug-resistance may itself be a treatment target

A new study reveals that cancer cells can develop resistance to proteasome inhibitors by suppressing the expression of proteasome subunits, leading to a broadly altered cell state with unique vulnerabilities. This finding may expose opportunities for targeted therapies that can be effective against diverse cancers.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 26, 2016

Calcium aids chromosome condensation prior to cell division

Researchers at Osaka University have found that calcium ions control chromosome condensation during mitosis, preventing misalignment and promoting compaction. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind chromosome structure and organization.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 26, 2016

Could disease 'tolerance' genes give new life to UK ash trees?

Researchers at the University of York have identified genetic markers for disease tolerance in UK ash trees, suggesting they may be able to withstand a devastating fungal infection. This discovery could contribute to breeding new varieties of ash that are tolerant to the disease.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature·DateDec 26, 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.

Shoulder pain linked to increased heart disease risk

A new study finds that individuals with symptoms at increased risk for heart disease are more likely to have shoulder problems, including joint pain and rotator cuff injury. The research suggests that controlling blood pressure and other heart risk factors may alleviate shoulder discomfort.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·DateDec 26, 2016

Fat fuels the road to cancer cell spread

A study published in Nature discovered that fat utilization is required for the development and growth of lymphatic vessels, a key route for cancer cell spread. Researchers found that inhibiting fat usage can control lymphatic vessel growth, offering new avenues for preventing metastasis and treating complications like lymphedema.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateDec 26, 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.

Ash tree genome aids fight against disease

Scientists have sequenced the ash tree genome, which aids the breeding of resistant trees against ash dieback fungus. The UK is home to over 1,000 species that rely on ash trees, making their conservation crucial.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature·DateDec 26, 2016

Biology's 'breadboard'

Researchers have developed a novel GAL4-UAS system for C. elegans, allowing for systematic perturbation of the nervous system and creation of a database linking neural activity to behaviors. This 'breadboard' system enables precise control of neural activity, simplifying the study of nervous system function.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 26, 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.

Single protein may hold secret to treating Parkinson's disease and more

Researchers have found that activating the protein Nrf2 can restore normal levels of disease-causing proteins in cells, preventing cell death. In models of Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases, Nrf2 was shown to protect cells against the disease better than any other treatment.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 26, 2016