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Science News Archive February 2016 - Page 31


Page 31 of 39

The geometry of histamine understood by Russican scientists

Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University studied histamine molecules using gas electron diffraction and quantum-chemical calculations. They were able to determine the molecule's geometric structure and predict its mechanism of tautomerization, a spontaneous transition between structural states.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateFeb 5, 2016

First-of-its-kind study explains why rest is critical after a concussion

A new study in mice shows that repetitive mild concussions can cause mounting damage and brain inflammation, even with extended rest periods. The findings support the importance of adequate rest after a concussion to allow for neural network rebalancing and repair.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 5, 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.

Motorboat noise gives predators a deadly advantage

Motorboat noise increases stress levels in young coral reef fish, reducing their ability to flee from predators. This study found that boat noise can halve survival chances and double the capture rate of fish.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2016

Discovery: Many white-tailed deer have malaria

Researchers estimate that up to 25% of white-tailed deer along the East Coast of the United States are infected with Plasmodium odocoilei, a previously unknown malaria parasite. The discovery fundamentally changes our understanding of malaria distribution and evolutionary history in mammals.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 2016

New analysis method may reduce need for invasive biopsies

Researchers have developed a chimera design that allows antibodies to cross cell membranes, potentially reducing the need for invasive biopsies. This breakthrough could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, and viral infections.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 5, 2016

Proteomics and precision medicine

A research team at the University of Iowa uses proteomics to create personalized molecular diagnoses, tailoring treatments to individual patients. By analyzing protein profiles, doctors can identify specific disease causes and develop targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateFeb 5, 2016

The iron stepping stones to better wearable tech without semiconductors

Researchers have created a new material using quantum dots of iron on boron nitride nanotubes, which can replace semiconductors in wearable technology. This new material enables transistors to shrink and reduces heat generation, making it suitable for flexible and efficient wearable electronics.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biophysics: Partitioning by collision

Researchers have found that mixtures of equally sized particles in solution will demix, or sort themselves, if they differ in their diffusion constants. This phenomenon, known as the Brazil Nut effect, was simulated and explained by a theoretical model, showing that random particle motions play a key role in the process.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 5, 2016

Central Appalachia flatter due to mountaintop mining

Researchers at Duke University found that 40 years of mountaintop coal mining has made parts of Central Appalachia 40% flatter than before excavation. The study suggests that this change could lead to increased water quality issues due to the creation of valley fills and changes in water movement.

SourceDuke University·DateFeb 5, 2016

Motorboat noise gives predators a deadly advantage

A new study found that motorboat noise increases stress levels in young coral reef fish, making them more vulnerable to predators. The team recommends creating marine quiet zones or buffer areas to mitigate this effect and protect the marine environment.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2016

Record Missouri flooding was manmade calamity, scientist says

Scientists found that recent developments near the Meramec River, including a levee and landfill, significantly magnified flood levels. The study showed that floods are becoming more chaotic, unpredictable, and severe due to human activities such as development in floodways and floodplains.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Earth Science·DateFeb 5, 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.

Chromosomes reconfigure as cell division ends

A new study reveals that chromosomes undergo a transformation in senescent cells, with some genes moving into more restrictive compartments. This change affects gene expression and may have implications for health conditions such as aging and cancer.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 2016

AMP updates pathology residency curriculum recommendations

The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has updated its pathology residency curriculum recommendations, focusing on 10 major molecular pathology topics. The new report aims to equip pathologists with the latest scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations in molecular pathology.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateFeb 5, 2016

When older adults stop driving, it may impact health and well-being

When older adults stop driving, they experience doubled symptoms of depression, faster physical and mental health declines, and increased mortality risk. Effective programs ensuring mobility and social activities are needed to mitigate these adverse effects.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 5, 2016

Clinicians’ exposure to basic science articles has significantly declined

A recent study in The FASEB Journal found that the number of articles dealing with basic scientific research in top medical journals has decreased dramatically over the past two decades. This decline is likely to reduce doctors' exposure to science, which could have implications for advances in medicine.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 5, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Aggression causes new nerve cells to be generated in the brain

A Russian-US research team found that aggressive behavior leads to new nerve cells being generated in the brain, specifically in the hippocampus. This discovery could help understand aggression and its link to autism and other disorders.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateFeb 5, 2016

Radar reveals the hidden secrets of wombat warrens

Using ground-penetrating radar, researchers mapped wombat warrens, finding that soil warrens consist of a single tunnel underground, while limestone warrens feature extensive tunnels and chambers. This discovery has important implications for estimating wombat numbers and understanding their social structure.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalWildlife Research·DateFeb 5, 2016

Researchers hone in on why female newborns are better protected from brain injury

New research reveals that estrogen receptor α (ERα) provides stronger protection for female newborn brains against hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). The study, published in eNeuro, found that ERα levels are significantly higher in female compared to male brains following oxygen deprivation and reduced blood flow.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournaleNeuro·DateFeb 4, 2016

Potential new approaches to treating eye diseases

A new study found that IL-33 amplifies an innate immune response in the degenerating retina, leading to retinal cell death. Inhibiting IL-33 may help treat AMD and other retinal degenerative diseases.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Health-care disparities contribute to delayed testicular cancer diagnosis in a transgender woman

A 28-year-old transgender woman experienced a delay in testicular cancer diagnosis due to inadequate access to insurance coverage and transportation challenges. The case study emphasizes the importance of addressing biopsychosocial needs and creating venues for medical providers to learn appropriate care for transgender patients.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateFeb 4, 2016

No Hib booster needed by vaccinated infants in Kenya

A 15-year study in Kilifi, Kenya found that vaccination reduces the chance of Hib disease by 93% and provides long-lasting protection. The current vaccine schedule is effective without a booster dose, suggesting no need for extra doses.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateFeb 4, 2016

Racial disparities in kidney transplant outcomes are narrowing

A new study reveals reduced racial disparities in kidney transplant outcomes between black and white recipients over the past 2 decades. The findings show improved organ survival rates for black patients, including those who received live donor or deceased donor kidney transplants.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 4, 2016

Diagnosis of rare bleeding disorder improved with super-resolution microscopy

A proof-of-concept study demonstrates a new method using super-resolution microscopy can accurately diagnose rare platelet disorders, offering an alternative to costly and resource-intensive electron microscopy. This innovative approach provides personalized treatment options, saving the NHS money and improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·DateFeb 4, 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.

Removing race from human genetic research

A team of scientists, including Michael Yudell, Dorothy Roberts, and Sarah Tishkoff, recommend phasing out race from genetic research due to its lack of clear-cut genetic boundaries. Instead, they propose using terms like 'ancestry' or 'population' to describe grouping for studies.

SourceDrexel University·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2016

Canadian physicists discover new properties of superconductivity

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have discovered electronic nematicity in superconducting materials, which can lead to enhanced superconductivity. The study used soft x-ray scattering to probe electron scattering in specific layers, revealing a universal feature in cuprate high-temperature superconductors.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2016

C. diff study provides insight into antibiotic resistance and risks for infection

Exposure to specific antibiotics is linked to the development of antibiotic-resistant C. difficile , one of the fastest growing bacteria superbugs. The study found that fluoroquinolone and macrolide exposure was more frequent in patients with a highly resistant strain, supporting targeted antibiotic stewardship monitoring programs.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateFeb 4, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

AGS guidance on diversity proves 'seeing' older patients is about more than seeing age

As the US welcomes its largest and most diverse group of older residents, AGS sheds light on health disparities and the importance of culturally effective care. The new guidance outlines present health disparities and the need for sensitivity to culture and health literacy when working with older individuals.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 4, 2016

UTHealth research looks at nanotechnology to help prevent preterm birth

Researchers at UTHealth have developed a targeted liposomal indomethacin, called LIPINDORA, which reduces preterm uterine contractions and premature delivery in near-term pregnant mice. The treatment is being tested in human uterine tissue donated from C-sections to assess its effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateFeb 4, 2016

Connective tissue disease increases risk for cardiovascular problems

A study of over 287,000 patients found that African-American patients with connective tissue diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis were twice as likely to develop narrowed or atherosclerotic blood vessels. Young African-Americans with CTD also had a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 2016

Lithium battery catalyst found to harm key soil microorganism

New research reveals that a common lithium battery catalyst harms a key soil bacterium, raising concerns about the environmental impact of these materials. The study found that the compound nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) impairs the growth and respiration of Shewanella oneidensis, a hardy soil bacterium.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateFeb 4, 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.

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.

Team calls for integrated field research network in Midwest to address climate adaptation

A team of researchers is urging increased spending on agricultural research in the Midwest to address climate change impacts. The proposed network would gather data on crop performance and management practices across the region to improve crops' adaptation to high temperatures, carbon dioxide, ozone, pests, and disease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 4, 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.

The odor of stones

Researchers discovered that diatoms are attracted to the smell of silicate minerals and move actively to areas with high concentrations. This ability allows them to colonize specific regions and is a key factor in their survival. Understanding this process could lead to the development of new materials resistant to algal colonization.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 2016

Graphical display of nutrition information helps keep health-conscious eaters on target

A new study found that graphical displays of fiber and protein per calorie values can encourage consumers to purchase healthier menu items. The researchers observed a significant reduction in calories purchased from entrees and an increase in protein per calorie when nutrition information was displayed graphically.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNutrition Research·DateFeb 4, 2016

For pregnant women with flu, the earlier the better for antiviral treatment

A new study published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases found that early treatment with the influenza antiviral drug oseltamivir can shorten the time a pregnant woman spends in the hospital, especially for those with severe illness. Annual flu vaccination is also crucial to prevent complications and protect the newborn baby.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 4, 2016

A fast solidification process makes material crackle

Researchers developed a theory that combines vibrations in solid materials and liquid solidification, predicting sound waves formed when compression relaxes. Fast solidification creates large defects, resulting in a 'crackling' sound wave.

SourceAalto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 4, 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.

Bee virus spread manmade and emanates from Europe

A study found that European honeybee populations are the primary source of Deformed Wing Virus infecting hives worldwide. The pandemic is driven by human trade and transportation of bees for crop pollination, posing significant threats to global bee populations and biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2016

Light signals from living cells

Researchers from Goethe University and MIT have developed a new method to deliver protein markers with nanometre precision into living cells. The technique, called cell squeezing, uses high pressure to incorporate fluorescent probes with an efficiency rate greater than 80 percent.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 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.

Bone loss associated with leukemia therapy occurs sooner than previously thought

A new study from Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that leukemia therapy leads to a significant drop in bone mineral density during the first month of treatment, affecting the lower spine and legs. This earlier onset than previously thought highlights the need for new approaches to mitigate bone toxicity in cancer patients.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalBone·DateFeb 4, 2016

Tuning macrophages a 'breakthrough' in cancer immunotherapy

Researchers have successfully flipped macrophages from a pro-cancer, wound-repair promoting phenotype (M2) to an anti-tumor, kill-type (M1) phenotype. This breakthrough could lead to improved cancer immunotherapies by enhancing the body's natural killer cells' ability to target tumor tissue.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 4, 2016

Walking on water: USU researchers unravel science of skipping spheres

Researchers at Utah State University have unraveled the science of skipping spheres by studying the deformation of elastic spheres on water. They found that the sphere's deformed shape creates a larger lifting force, allowing it to skip multiple times across the surface.

SourceUtah State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 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.

How gut inflammation sparks colon cancer

Researchers at Duke University have discovered that gut inflammation sparks colon cancer, with microRNA miR-34a playing a crucial role in controlling stem cell division. Elevated levels of miR-34a may serve as an early warning system for colon cancer, and its expression could be used to treat late-stage cancer.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 4, 2016