Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive December 2016 - Page 30


Page 30 of 32

New tool uses UV light to control inflammation

Researchers at Cornell University developed a chemical tool that controls inflammation using UV light, allowing for targeted therapy with minimal side effects. The method has potential applications in treating inflammatory diseases such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceCornell University·JournalChemical Science·DateDec 2, 2016

New gene therapy for pseudarthrosis trialed at Kazan University

Researchers at Kazan University have developed a novel gene therapy approach that combines demineralized bone with genetic material to stimulate blood vessel and bone growth. The treatment shows promise in treating pseudarthrosis and other bone defects, with plans to offer innovative treatments at the Kazan University Clinic.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalBioNanoScience·DateDec 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.

NYU researchers identify stress-hormone differences among gay men

A study published in Psychoneuroendocrinology found that black gay men (BGM) have a flattened diurnal cortisol curve and elevated evening levels, suggesting an unhealthy stress response. The research highlights the need for more expansive studies on HPA-axis functioning among racial/ethnic and sexual minority men.

SourceNew York University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateDec 2, 2016

Hearing deficits in schizophrenia tied to specific brain receptor

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center discovered that dysfunctional N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) brain receptors cause hearing deficits in schizophrenia. Patients who received training and administration of an amino acid, D-serine, significantly improved their ability to distinguish subtle differences in pitch.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalBrain·DateDec 2, 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.

Novel anti-PSMA imaging agent quickly identifies prostate cancer lesions

A novel imaging agent, Zr-89-Df-IAB2M, has been shown to detect metastasis of prostate cancer in both bone and soft tissue lesions with high accuracy. The agent targets PSMA on the exterior of prostate cancer cells, allowing for faster and more accurate detection than conventional methods.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 2, 2016

Alpha blockers more effective for large kidney stones

A new review of 55 kidney stone studies suggests alpha blockers may be useful in facilitating stone passage, particularly for patients with larger stones. The findings indicate a 57% higher risk of stone passage for larger stones with an alpha blocker, but no benefit for smaller stones.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2016

Shape matters when light meets atom

Scientists mapped the probability of Rubidium atoms absorbing photons with rising and decaying shapes. The results show a significant increase in excitation at moments when the photon arrives dimly and ends brightly, indicating that photon shape plays a crucial role in light-matter interactions.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2016

Researchers may have found first polluted river from before Bronze Age

A team of researchers has found evidence of early pollution caused by copper combustion in a 7,000-year-old dry riverbed in southern Jordan. The discovery sheds light on the Chalcolithic period, when humans transitioned from stone tools to metal production, and highlights the environmental impact of industrial-scale metal production.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateDec 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.

New aspect of atom mimicry for nanotechnology applications

Scientists create arrays of nanocontainers with tailored interaction strengths by mimicking electron valency in atoms. The approach enables plasmonic sensors and electrocatalysts, showcasing a new aspect of atom mimicry for nanotechnology applications.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 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.

Mechanism of probiotic health promotion revealed

New research reveals the mechanism by which probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei DG promotes health. The probiotic releases a novel polysaccharide that stimulates the immune system to release anti-inflammatory chemicals.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 2, 2016

Research uses mobile technology to help people quit smoking

A mobile app developed by researchers at the University of Oklahoma uses real-time risk estimation to predict tobacco cessation lapses, achieving an 80% accuracy rate. The app combines six questions to identify lapse-risk factors and delivers tailored messages to help smokers overcome triggers.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateDec 2, 2016

Overcoming the limitations of optical microscopy

A research group led by Prof. Dr. Benjamin Judkewitz is working on a new approach to overcome light scattering limitations in optical microscopy, enabling images of deeper tissue layers. The European Research Council has allocated €1.49 million over five years to fund this endeavor.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateDec 2, 2016

Superconductivity of pure Bismuth crystal at 0.00053 K

A group of TIFR scientists have discovered superconductivity in pure Bismuth crystal at an extremely low temperature of 0.00053 K. The discovery cannot be explained by standard models of superconductivity, highlighting the need for a new theory.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalScience·DateDec 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.

New method improves stability, extends shelf life of protein drugs

A new study has discovered a novel route to improve the stability of protein drugs, significantly extending their shelf life. Stability increases from 14 hours to over 100 days while maintaining activity under stressed conditions, offering potential treatment solutions for diseases in developing countries.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2016

A radiation-free approach to imaging molecules in the brain

Researchers create new sensors that detect proteins and induce blood flow changes, allowing for non-radiative imaging of molecules in the brain. This approach enables detection of biologically low-level molecules and monitoring of dynamic processes in the brain.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 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.

Fast, efficient sperm tails inspire nanobiotechnology

Scientists at Cornell University developed a system where enzymes are attached to nanoparticles to mimic the efficient energy-producing mechanism of sperm tails. The tethered enzyme system processes glucose to lactate more efficiently than free-floating enzymes, with potential applications in powering devices that carry out various jobs.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 2, 2016
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.

Breaking the backbone

Researchers have developed a method to produce degradable polymers through chemical vapor deposition (CVD), allowing for the creation of biodegradable implants and coatings. The new polymers can be tailored to degrade at specific rates, making them suitable for various medical applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 1, 2016

Parkinson's disease linked to microbiome

Researchers at Caltech discovered a functional link between bacteria in the intestines and Parkinson's disease, showing that changes in gut bacterial populations contribute to motor skill deterioration. The study found that an imbalance in short-chain fatty acids regulates brain inflammation and symptoms of PD.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateDec 1, 2016

Being part of a community group could protect you from cognitive decline

A study of 9,119 men and women found that participating in civic activities was associated with better cognitive function at age 50. The researchers also found that low socio-economic status as a child and worse mental well-being in adulthood were linked to poorer cognitive outcomes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychology·DateDec 1, 2016

NASA's Sun-observing IRIS mission

IRIS collects data on the temperature and movement of solar material to determine how it drives the constant changes on our sun. The mission aims to answer questions about coronal heating and solar activity, with recent studies suggesting distinct bomb-like events.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 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.

Northern Ohio institutions become laboratories for future energy usage

Case Western Reserve University, NASA Glenn Research Center, and the University of Toledo are collaborating on a $1 million project to integrate distributed energy sources with buildings and grid. The Northern Ohio Building-to-Grid Integration Demonstration will test strategies for optimizing energy consumption across various conditions.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateDec 1, 2016

Single dose of hallucinogenic drug psilocybin relieves anxiety and depression in patients with advanced cancer

A clinical trial led by NYU Langone Health found that psilocybin significantly reduces mental anguish in distressed cancer patients for months. The study showed that one-time treatment with psilocybin quickly brought relief from distress that then lasted for over six months in 80% of the participants.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateDec 1, 2016

Proposed biosimilar drug shows potential as breast cancer treatment

A proposed biosimilar drug has shown equivalent results to trastuzumab in treating metastatic breast cancer. The study's findings suggest that a biosimilar treatment option could increase global access to biologic cancer therapies, particularly for women in non-high-income countries.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 1, 2016

New process produces hydrogen at much lower temperature

Researchers at Waseda University have developed a new method for producing hydrogen, achieving temperatures as low as 150~200°C. This innovation reduces energy input and extends catalyst life, making it suitable for widespread use in fuel cell systems.

SourceWaseda University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 1, 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.

Four weeks to prepare cancer patients for surgery

A four-week prehabilitation program has shown promising results in preparing cancer patients for surgery by improving their physical fitness and reducing recovery time. The study involved 116 colorectal cancer patients who underwent the program before undergoing surgery.

SourceMcGill University·JournalSupportive Care in Cancer·DateDec 1, 2016

Neuroscientist studies connection between PTSD and alcohol abuse

A neuroscientist is studying the link between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol abuse to identify potential treatments. The researcher hopes to pinpoint brain areas involved in processing fear memories and develop methods to break the cycle of dependency.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateDec 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.

Burnes receives GSA's 2016 Senior Service America Junior Scholar Award

David Burnes is awarded for his presentation on varying appraisals of elder mistreatment among victims, which highlights the need for detection and response strategies. The award recognizes Burnes' work on understanding and preventing elder mistreatment in community and long-term care settings.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateDec 1, 2016

Protective barrier inside chromosomes helps to keep cells healthy

A recent study published in Nature Communications has shed light on the structures that contain our genetic material. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh created an artificial chromosome to investigate cell division and found a complex series of steps that form a protective barrier inside chromosomes.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2016

The first analysis of Ewing's sarcoma methyloma opens doors to new treatments

IDIBELL researchers describe the Ewing's sarcoma methylation profile for the first time, unveiling the potential of the PTRF gene as a prognostic marker and possible future therapeutic target. The study found that PTRF expression is associated with better survival rates in patients.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalCancer Letters·DateDec 1, 2016

Where the rains come from

Research identifies mesoscale convective systems as primary cause of increased heavy rainfall in the region. The study found a significant increase in the frequency and duration of these storms over the past 35 years.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 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.

Making graphene using laser-induced phase separation

Scientists at IBS & KAIST create a new method for producing graphene using laser annealing technology, which can separate complex compounds like SiC into ultrathin elements of carbon and silicon. The technique reaches the same results as traditional methods but at lower temperatures, making it more efficient and scalable.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2016

Could ambulatory surgical centers help bend the cost curve in US health care?

Research suggests direct costs for select orthopaedic procedures at ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) could be significantly less than university hospitals. ASCs offer convenient and potentially cost-effective care options with streamlined processes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateDec 1, 2016

Magnetic brain stimulation can bring back stowed memories

Researchers used transcranial magnetic stimulation to revive stowed memories, suggesting a separate state of memory apart from active working memory and deep storage. This breakthrough may help individuals control their attention and manage mental health disorders like schizophrenia and depression.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateDec 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.

New in the Hastings Center Report

The Hastings Center Report examines the ethics of crowdfunding for medical care, citing concerns over fraud, misinformation, and health inequities. The article proposes reducing the number of clinical trials to improve their quality and provide evidence-based decision-making.

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

Antibody test gauges mosquito exposure

Researchers developed a blood test to assess human exposure to Aedes mosquitoes by measuring antibodies against one individual peptide from Aedes saliva. The test showed decreased human exposure to mosquito bites after a vector control program, with 88% of people having a positive antibody reaction before the intervention.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 1, 2016

Plasma-zapping process could yield trans fat-free soybean oil product

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a hydrogenation process that uses high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP) to solidify soybean oil for food processing without creating trans fats. The new process is more efficient and environmentally friendly, with the potential to produce safe plant oils on a large scale.

SourcePurdue University·JournalInnovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies·DateDec 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.

DOE project to evaluate safety of transporting used nuclear fuel

A University of Houston engineer leads a multi-institution effort to develop monitoring techniques for stable fuel transport during transit and accidents. Researchers will study structural issues, risk analysis, and new sensing techniques to ensure spent nuclear fuel can be safely moved from temporary storage to permanent disposal sites.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateDec 1, 2016

Scientists bring 'forgotten' memories back to mind

Researchers discovered that neural activity supporting short-term memories only arises when recall is consciously attempted. This study finds that information in working memory is maintained through mechanisms other than sustained neural activity and can be revived using transcranial magnetic stimulation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 1, 2016

A watershed moment in understanding how H2O conducts electricity

Researchers at Yale University have made a major breakthrough in understanding how water conducts electricity, revealing a fundamental mechanism found in biology and chemistry. By capturing the structural changes in water molecules, they were able to demonstrate a precise process known as the Grotthuss mechanism.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateDec 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.