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Science News Archive December 2016 - Page 5


Page 5 of 32

Live cell imaging using a smartphone

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a cost-effective method for live cell imaging using smartphones, enabling laboratories worldwide to study cellular responses to treatments. The innovative system utilizes 3D-printed parts and off-the-shelf electronics, providing excellent cell culture conditions and high-resolution imaging.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 21, 2016

New approach captures the energy of slow motion

A new concept harnesses low-frequency mechanical energy to generate electricity, improving performance at lower frequencies than existing devices. The device, called an ionic diode, operates at one-tenth Hertz and has a higher peak power density compared to piezoelectric generators.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateDec 21, 2016

Fish sperm race for reproductive success

Researchers found that dominant Arctic char produce sperm swimming faster in diluted ovarian fluid, while subordinate males produce faster-swimming sperm in water. These adaptations may give them an edge in competition for mates.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateDec 21, 2016

Study examines melanoma incidence, death

A new study reports an estimated 76,380 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma in 2016, with current lifetime risk being 1 in 54 for invasive melanoma. The overall burden of disease is increasing, with rising rates and higher mortality rates, exceeding the previous estimate of 10,130 deaths

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateDec 21, 2016

Rejuvenating the brain's disposal system

A new tissue culture system has revealed that microglia from aged brains are engulfing amyloid plaques on site, with young microglia secreting factors to rejuvenate older cells. The discovery highlights a potential strategy for removing amyloid plaques and improving cognition in Alzheimer's disease.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateDec 21, 2016

Watching water freeze (video)

A team of scientists from France has developed a method to visualize ice crystals in three dimensions as they grow, providing new insights into their formation process. By using confocal laser scanning microscopy and image analysis, the researchers can capture rapid images of ice crystals growing and measure their expansion rates.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateDec 21, 2016

Chemistry research breakthrough that could improve nuclear waste recycling technologies

Researchers at The University of Manchester have made a major step forward in nuclear waste recycling technologies by describing the electronic structure of uranium nitride compounds. A family of 15 complexes was synthesized, and advanced techniques were used to gain insight into their electronic states. This research has the potential...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2016

Astrophotography as a gateway to science

UC Riverside scientists created astrophotography classes for non-science students, resulting in improved understanding of telescopes and cameras, as well as renewed interest in astronomy. The cost-effective courses also encouraged students to take up astrophotography as a hobby, opening the path to future amateur astronomers.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalInternational Journal of STEM Education·DateDec 21, 2016

Buddhism along the Silk Roads

The project investigates Buddhist networks in Eastern Central Asia from the 6th-14th centuries, exploring transregional links between China, India, Tibet, and Central Asian regions. The team will analyze manuscripts and conduct field research to understand how Buddhism spread and evolved.

Dyslexics show a difference in sensory processing

Research reveals that individuals with dyslexia have a fundamental brain difference in sensory perception, leading to difficulties in processing speech and written words. Brain activity remains high in both cases, suggesting that they do not adapt as much, while those with better reading skills show greater adaptation levels.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 21, 2016

UTHealth's Wolinsky is senior author of paper on new therapy for primary MS

Researchers have made significant strides in treating primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) with ocrelizumab, a medication that targets immune cells contributing to the disease. The study, led by UTHealth's Jerry Wolinsky, shows substantial improvement in slowing disability progression and reducing new lesion formation.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 21, 2016

Survey: Cardiology workforce is aging, male-dominated

The American College of Cardiology's survey reveals that cardiologists are highly satisfied with their careers, but women face disparities in advancement opportunities and family responsibilities. The workforce is also aging, with a greater percentage of practicing physicians over 60, and private practice settings have decreased.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 21, 2016

The last frontier

Kosik's research suggests that dendrites use a relatively small number of RNAs to leverage increased dynamic range, allowing for sparse coding and plasticity. This enables the brain to process incoming information more efficiently and adapt to new experiences.

Why big brains are rare

Researchers found that the largest-brained species of electric fish have the highest demand for oxygen, while the smallest-brained species have the lowest. This suggests that large brains can only evolve if constraints on energy intake are lifted or alternative solutions are found to accommodate the increased energy demands.

Study finds state tort reforms linked to decreases in radiography utilization

New research from the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute finds that state tort reforms are associated with a decrease in physician ordering of radiographs. The study examined the impact of liability pressure on overall imaging use and found that indirect tort reforms have a stronger effect on radiography orders than direct reforms.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateDec 21, 2016

Stressed snakes strike first

A team of scientists led by Mark Herr found that cottonmouths with high baseline levels of corticosterone were more likely to strike during encounters. The study suggests that protecting snake habitats may reduce the incidence of snakebites and that a snake's striking behavior is related to its baseline level of stress.

SourcePenn State·JournalGeneral and Comparative Endocrinology·DateDec 21, 2016

Could Rudolph and friends help to slow down our warming climate?

A study found that reindeer grazing in the Arctic tundra can increase surface albedo, leading to a decrease in net radiation and a potential cooling effect on climate. The researchers used land surface computer modeling and field measurements to estimate the impact of reindeer activity on vegetation characteristics.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 21, 2016

Novel technique helps ID elusive molecules

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a novel technique to identify carbohydrates, which play a vital role in life processes. The new method, called 'sequencing by recognition,' uses electricity to release current spikes that can be measured and analyzed to identify specific carbohydrate molecules with high accuracy.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2016

JDR studies examine the trends and impact of NIH research funding to dental schools

Two studies examine NIH funding to US dental institutions between 2005-2014, revealing a 70% investment by NIDCR, with funding for oral cavity cancer research decreasing after 2009. A perspective piece highlights the need for increased focus on rectifying the gap in oral health research funding.