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Science News Archive December 2016 - Page 9


Page 9 of 32

An invisible electrode

Researchers at ICFO have created a multilayer transparent conductor with low resistance and high optical transmission, exceeding ITO's performance. The new material offers fourfold improvement in figure of merit and superior mechanical flexibility.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2016

New report outlines 10 measures for the prevention of sudden cardiac death

The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association have released a new report outlining 10 quality and performance measures to help prevent sudden cardiac death. The measures focus on screening and treating at-risk patients, with the goal of improving patient care and outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 19, 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.

Satellites help discover a jet stream in the Earth's core

Researchers have discovered a jet stream within the Earth's molten iron core, moving at over 40 kilometers per year and three times faster than typical outer core speeds. The discovery was made possible by the European Space Agency's Swarm satellites, which provided an unprecedented x-ray view of the planet.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 19, 2016

Multi-social millennials more likely depressed than social(media)ly conservative peers

A national survey found that young adults who use seven to 11 social media platforms have more than three times the risk of depression and anxiety compared to those who use zero to two platforms. Multitasking, navigating platform rules, and committing social media faux pas may contribute to these negative outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateDec 19, 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.

Starfish larvae create complex water whorls to eat and run

Tiny starfish larvae create vortices that bring food close enough to grab while simultaneously speeding away from scarcity. This mechanism allows the larvae to make feed-versus-speed tradeoffs, optimizing their energy expenditure.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 19, 2016

Low-carb diet alleviates inherited form of intellectual disability in mice

A low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet has been shown to alleviate symptoms of a rare inherited intellectual disability in mice genetically engineered with a Kabuki syndrome-like condition. The study suggests that correcting an imbalance in chromatin's open and closed states may improve mental function, offering new hope for treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2016

Hospitalized patients treated by female physicians show lower mortality

Researchers found a 4% lower relative risk of dying prematurely and a 5% lower relative risk of being readmitted for patients treated by female physicians. The association remained consistent across various clinical conditions and severity of illness, suggesting that patient selection did not explain the results.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 19, 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 man who mistook his wife for an imposter

Neuroscientists identify key brain areas responsible for delusional misidentification syndromes, a group of rare disorders where patients mistake people or places for imposters. The study's findings may help patients' families cope with the condition and improve treatment options.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalBrain·DateDec 19, 2016

Nanoparticle-based method shows promise in DNA vaccine delivery

Scientists develop a nanoparticle-based method for delivering therapeutic molecules into cells, enabling the induction of strong immune responses against various viruses and diseases. The technique, which harnesses electrically activated gold nanoparticles, demonstrates safety and efficacy in animal studies.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 19, 2016

New carbenoid species yields unexpected reactivity

Researchers at ICIQ have designed a new strategy for stereoconvergent preparation of trans-cyclopropanes from E/Z alkene mixtures. The 'radical carbenoid' method uses diiodomethane as a commercially available and easy-to-handle reagent.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 19, 2016

Preventing medical communication errors

A new study examines the impact of structured rounding tools on multidisciplinary morning rounds, finding that these tools can improve time allocation and reduce communication breakdowns. The use of such tools can mitigate disproportionate time allocation and nearly eliminate communication errors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateDec 19, 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.

Tumor DNA in blood may serve as prognostic marker of pancreatic cancer

Researchers found a strong correlation between circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and poor outcomes in pancreatic cancer patients. ctDNA levels were associated with disease stage, grade of differentiation, and overall survival. The study suggests that detecting ctDNA could help subclassify cancers and manage treatment.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateDec 19, 2016

Study reveals inequalities in carbon footprints of Chinese households

A new study by University of East Anglia researchers found significant inequalities in Chinese household carbon footprints, with the rich producing nearly four times the national average. The study highlights the need for policies to address income inequality and promote sustainable lifestyles among all segments of society.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 19, 2016

Pregnancy leads to changes in the mother's brain

Research finds pregnancy alters brain structure, particularly in regions related to social cognition and self-focused processing. The study suggests an adaptive process of functional specialization towards motherhood, with potential benefits for detecting the child's emotional state.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 19, 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.

Girls with poorer motor skills more likely than boys to be obese

Research found girls with low fundamental movement skills exhibit higher body fatness compared to boys, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to enhance motor proficiency in girls. The study aims to understand the relationship between motor skills and obesity, suggesting that developmental delays may be a contributing factor.

SourceCoventry University·DateDec 19, 2016

Bisphenol A in canned dog food may increase BPA concentrations in pets

Researchers found that short-term feeding of canned dog food resulted in a significant increase in BPA concentrations in dogs. The study also identified gut microbiome and metabolic changes associated with exposure to BPA from canned foods, which could have implications for human health.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateDec 19, 2016

The transgender 'bathroom bill': Who wants it -- men or women?

A study analyzed public comments on online news articles about transgender individuals using female-only bathrooms. Men were found to be more concerned about safety and privacy, while women expressed muted concerns about potential 'perverts'. The study's findings suggest that male transphobia may be linked to traditional masculine roles.

SourceSpringer·JournalGender Issues·DateDec 19, 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.

Up to 8,400 heart attacks and strokes prevented through NHS Health Checks

A review of the NHS Health Check programme found a significant increase in diagnoses of diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease among attendees. The study suggests that the programme has prevented an estimated 4,600 to 8,400 heart attacks and strokes in England.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateDec 19, 2016

Exhausted T cells

LJI researchers identified key factors controlling T cell fate, shedding light on molecular mechanisms behind T cell exhaustion. This study offers new approaches to clinical intervention strategies to modulate T cell activity and improve immune function.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalImmunity·DateDec 19, 2016

Culture not a factor in management styles globally

Researchers found that managers across countries and cultures respond similarly to certain situations, challenging traditional views of cultural influences on management styles. The study's findings have implications for global management training and evaluation.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEuropean Management Journal·DateDec 19, 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.

Fuel cells with PFIA-membranes

A research team analyzed PFIA membrane samples using infrared spectroscopy to understand water retention. They found that PFIA is better at managing water in low humidity conditions, retaining it through a hydrogen-bonded network. This improvement is crucial for further optimizing membranes and extending their operational area.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateDec 19, 2016

How bacteria survive antibiotic treatment

Scientists have discovered molecular mechanisms that allow bacteria to survive antibiotic treatment and cause chronic infections. These 'persister cells' can resuscitate after treatment is abandoned, leading to relapsing infections. Understanding this phenomenon may lead to the development of novel antibiotics targeting persisters.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2016

The strange effects of thinking healthy food is costlier

Researchers found that consumers believe healthier foods are more expensive, leading to incorrect perceptions of health issues. For example, participants prioritized eye health when told about a new food ingredient, but not at lower prices.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 19, 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.

Researchers model the way into a nuclear future

Russian researchers developed a model to simulate dislocation behavior in uranium dioxide, enabling predictions of nuclear fuel behavior under operating conditions. This study aims to improve the understanding of nuclear fuel properties and reduce accident risks.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Plasticity·DateDec 19, 2016

Stroke: Brain cells potentiate harmful electrical discharges

Researchers at DZNE discovered that astrocytes potentiate harmful electrical discharges after a stroke, leading to increased brain damage. Modulating astrocyte calcium metabolism may be a potential starting point for treating stroke in humans.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 19, 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.

Hypoxia signaling plays a physiological role in the formation of the heart

Scientists have discovered that hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIFs) establish metabolic boundaries between cardiomyocytes to regulate maturation and contraction of the muscle. This pathway challenges previous models on heart metabolism, playing a critical role in correct formation of ventricles.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 19, 2016

Freezing in record lows? You may doubt global warming says USU scientist

A new study suggests that local weather conditions can influence people's beliefs about global warming. In places with more record-breaking cold temperatures, residents are more likely to doubt the planet is warming. The research highlights the importance of differentiating between weather and climate.

SourceUtah State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 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.

Mimicking biological movements with soft robots

Researchers have developed a method to automatically design soft actuators for complex motions, enabling the creation of soft robots that can bend and twist like living tissues. This breakthrough streamlines the process of designing soft robots, allowing for the creation of robots with enhanced mobility and dexterity.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2016

Daily sugar intake guidelines are based on low quality evidence

A systematic review of authoritative guidelines on sugar intake found that many recommendations are based on low-quality evidence. The review suggests that public health officials and consumers should be aware of these limitations when considering dietary sugar guidelines.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 19, 2016

Male or female physician: Does it matter in death, hospital readmission rates?

A study published in JAMA Network found that hospitalized Medicare beneficiaries treated by female internists had lower rates of 30-day mortality and hospital readmission compared to those treated by male physicians. Female physicians were more likely to adhere to clinical guidelines and provide preventive care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 19, 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.

Space-based lidar shines new light on plankton

A space-based sensor has provided a continuous look at phytoplankton boom-bust cycles, revealing they are more tied to the push-pull relationship between predators and prey. The study suggests blooms start when growth rates are slow, not when rates reach a threshold rate.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 19, 2016

Newly identified pathway in mitochondria fuels tumor progression across cancer types

Scientists at The Wistar Institute have identified a novel protein pathway in mitochondria that controls energy production for cell invasion and metastasis across multiple cancer types. This pathway, previously observed in neurons, has strong clinical implications and represents a potential therapeutic target for several types of cancer.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2016

Ancient Chinese malaria remedy fights TB

A centuries-old herbal medicine, artemisinin, has been found to stop TB-causing bacteria from becoming dormant, making them more sensitive to antibiotics. This could shorten treatment times and improve patient outcomes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 19, 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.

DNA markers distinguish between harmless, deadly bacteria

A large genome study has identified potential virulence factors to discriminate new Francisella species from the deadly F. tularensis bacterium. The study provides a framework for identifying new isolates and environmental detections, improving disease diagnosis and bioweapon detection.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 19, 2016

Investing in fisheries management improves fish populations

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that successful fisheries management is critical to maintaining productive fish populations. The research found that science-based stock assessments, limits on fishing pressure, and adequate enforcement are key attributes of effective management systems.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2016

Americans believe climate change connected to location and local weather

A new study at George Washington University found that local weather experiences drive belief or non-belief in climate change among Americans. Record high temperatures are associated with increased acceptance of global warming, while record low temperatures contribute to skepticism.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2016

Dietary sugar guidelines are based on low quality evidence

A systematic review of public health guidelines found that recommendations for limiting sugar intake are based on low-to-very-low quality evidence. The researchers suggest that while limiting sugar intake is advisable, the degree and alternatives remain unclear.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 19, 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.

Manganese nodules as breeding ground for deep-sea octopuses

Researchers discovered a new species of deep-sea octopus that guards its eggs on sponges attached to manganese nodules. The species' dependence on the nodules suggests industrial resource extraction must be preceded by ecological investigations.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 19, 2016

Barramundi populations at risk from acid oceans

Wild barramundi populations are likely to be seriously affected by ocean acidification, which can impact fish that only spend a short time in the ocean. The study's findings have significant implications for fishing industries and ecosystem health.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalOecologia·DateDec 19, 2016