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Science News Archive January 2016 - Page 16


Page 16 of 31

Leading medical journals propose mandate on clinical data sharing

Leading medical journals propose a mandate on clinical data sharing to improve the benefit to society from clinical trials. The ICMJE defines a clinical trial as any research project that prospectively assigns people to an intervention, and believes there is an ethical obligation to share data generated by interventional clinical trials.

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

What's height got to do with it?

A study of over 13,000 couples found that genetic variation affecting height influences mate choice, revealing an innate preference for partners of similar height. The research provides new insights into the mechanisms driving sexual attraction and human variation.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 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.

Ancient genomes reveal that the English are one-third Anglo-Saxon

Researchers estimate that approximately one-third of British ancestors were Anglo-Saxon immigrants, who mixed with the native population. Genome sequences from ancient skeletons and modern-day DNA data reveal integrated communities and support a long-standing debate among historians and archaeologists.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 19, 2016

Lupus Research Institute awards 12 novel research grants

The Lupus Research Institute has awarded 12 novel research grants to investigate the link between bacteria and lupus, as well as innovative approaches to treating the disease. The grants aim to develop new treatments and potentially prevent lupus through cutting-edge research.

SourceLupus Research Alliance·DateJan 19, 2016

JAMA Viewpoint: 'Physician-assisted dying: A turning point?'

Scholars Lawrence O. Gostin and Anna E. Roberts examine state laws surrounding physician-assisted death, highlighting concerns over coercion, devaluation of human life, and potential abuse. They advocate for stricter safeguards to ensure the practice remains consistent with social and ethical thought.

SourceO'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law·JournalJAMA·DateJan 19, 2016

Advances in continuous glucose monitoring technology will pave the way to an artificial pancreas

The article discusses the development and future promise of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology, which combines CGM with an insulin pump and sophisticated algorithms for automating insulin control. Key challenges facing successful commercialization include cost, reimbursement issues, and lack of FDA approval for insulin dosing.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateJan 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.

The reproductive and survival benefits of mothers and grandmothers in elephants

A study of African elephants found that mothers and grandmothers provide significant reproductive and survival benefits to their daughters and grandchildren. Grandmothers' social knowledge and environmental conditions significantly impact calf survival, while early birth years and maternal age also play a role in determining reproducti...

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJan 19, 2016

Cost of end-of-life care in the US is comparable to Europe and Canada

A study comparing end-of-life care practices among US, European, and Canadian countries found that the US has lower hospital deaths and days spent in hospitals in the last six months of life. However, it also performs poorly in other aspects of end-of-life care, such as high-tech interventions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateJan 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.

Immunity genes could protect some from E. coli while others fall ill

Researchers discovered significant differences in immune-related genes among patients with and without E. coli symptoms, indicating innate resistance to infection. The findings could lead to new ways to boost the immune system and predict susceptibility to infections like E. coli.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 19, 2016

UTSA study explores how to increase productivity by stopping cyberloafing

A new study by UTSA professor Matthew McCarter found that allowing employees to vote on whether to turn off the internet results in significant reductions of cyberloafing. This approach increased productivity among former cyberloafers by 38%, demonstrating the effectiveness of giving workers control over their work environment.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalGames·DateJan 19, 2016

Omega 3 levels affect whether B vitamins can slow brain's decline

Researchers found that higher Omega-3 fatty acid levels enhance the effectiveness of B vitamins in preventing cognitive decline. The study, which included over 250 participants with mild cognitive impairment, suggests that combining B vitamins and fish oil supplements may improve thinking and memory in older adults.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·DateJan 19, 2016

DOE announces new projects to modernize America's electric grid

The US Department of Energy has announced a significant investment in grid modernization research and development, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing infrastructure security. The new funding will support critical research and development over the next three years to help modernize America's electrical power grid.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJan 19, 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.

Regular exercise critical for heart health, longevity

The study emphasizes that even moderate amounts of physical activity can significantly reduce cardiovascular disease mortality risk. The council found no upper limit to exercise-induced health benefits, suggesting all levels of moderate and vigorous intensity exercise result in reduced mortality compared to physical inactivity.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 18, 2016

Living fossils and rare corals revealed

A team of researchers has discovered living fossils, rare corals, and diverse ecosystems in the deep waters of the Coral Sea. The expedition found golden corals, precious red coral, glass sponges, and ancient species like the chambered nautilus.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalMarine Biodiversity·DateJan 18, 2016

It's a 3-D printer, but not as we know it

Researchers developed a novel method to print composite materials using ultrasonic waves, enabling the creation of complex fibrous architectures. The technology can be easily integrated into existing 3D printers, offering tailored material properties and potential applications in smart materials.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateJan 18, 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.

ACP and CDC issue advice for prescribing antibiotics

The American College of Physicians (ACP) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued advice for prescribing antibiotics for acute respiratory tract infections in adults. Inappropriate antibiotic use contributes to antibiotic-resistant infections, posing a public health threat. Guidelines recommend symptomatic therapy fo...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 18, 2016

Cardiac arrests in high-rise buildings: Low survival rates above 3rd floor

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that residents of high-rise buildings living on lower floors had better survival rates from cardiac arrests. Notably, survival was negligible for people living above the 16th floor. The researchers suggest several solutions to improve time to patient contact and increa...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 18, 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.

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.

ACP, CDC offer advice on prescribing antibiotics for common illnesses

The American College of Physicians (ACP) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issue advice on prescribing antibiotics for acute respiratory tract infections, citing unnecessary use that can lead to $3 billion in excess costs. The guidelines recommend reserving antibiotics for serious illnesses only.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 18, 2016

Team develops wireless, dissolvable sensors to monitor brain

A team of neurosurgeons and engineers has developed wireless brain sensors that monitor intracranial pressure and temperature, dissolving over time without the need for surgery. These devices have potential to monitor patients with traumatic brain injuries and could be used to track activity in other organ systems throughout the body.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 18, 2016

Why Spiderman can't exist: Geckos are 'size limit' for sticking to walls

Scientists found that larger animals require more sticking power, but have less body surface area available to cover with sticky footpads. Geckos' unique footpads set a size limit for adhesive-based climbing strategies, making it impossible for humans to climb like Spiderman.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 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.

Laws of nature predict cancer evolution

A new study uses natural laws to predict how cancers evolve over time, potentially leading to personalized treatment. The research suggests that doctors could use mathematical formulas to anticipate a cancer's growth and development, enabling them to choose the most effective treatments.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 18, 2016

Scientists take steps to make weak TB drugs strong again

Researchers found that fluoroquinolones interact with an enzyme in TB germs, but not as strongly as thought. They discovered a new way to make the drugs more potent by targeting broken DNA within the gyrase complex. This could lead to improved treatments for multidrug-resistant TB and other bacterial infections.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2016

Researchers uncover core set of genes for plant-fungal symbiosis

A new study has identified 138 genes essential for plant-fungal symbiosis, which could lead to the development of crop varieties that thrive without fertilizers. This discovery was made possible by comparing genome sequences of plants with and without this symbiotic relationship.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Plants·DateJan 18, 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.

Tiny electronic implants monitor brain injury, then melt away

Researchers developed a new class of dissolvable electronic sensors that can monitor temperature and pressure within the skull after a brain injury or surgery. The sensors are made from biodegradable materials and can transmit signals wirelessly, eliminating the need for additional surgery to remove them.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateJan 18, 2016

Scientists find new gene fault behind ovarian cancer

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that women carrying an inherited BRIP1 gene fault are over three times more likely to develop ovarian cancer. The research also showed that these women tend to be diagnosed with aggressive cancers at a later age and have a higher risk of dying from the disease.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 18, 2016

New study gives squirrels plenty of food for thought

A new study by the University of Exeter found that grey squirrels solve problems in the search for food through persistence and choosing effective behaviors. The research showed increased experience, higher persistence, and behavioral selectivity are directly related to improved problem-solving efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJan 18, 2016

New app can help doctors predict risk of preterm birth

A new app called QUiPP was tested in high-risk women to predict preterm birth risk. The app performed well as a predictive tool, outperforming individual factors like cervical length and fetal fibronectin levels.

SourceKing's College London·JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 18, 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.

Recipe for muon pair creation, in theory

A Japanese physicist has developed new ways to create muonium atoms through particle collisions, offering advancements in detection and applications in proton size measurements. The second method using a positively charged muon colliding with a muonic hydrogen atom shows the most promise for future experiments.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJan 18, 2016

Broken UV light leads to key heart muscle cell discovery

Researchers have successfully generated human cardiac muscle cells from stem cells using a 'Matrigel mattress', addressing a problem with contractile properties. The new method allows for high-throughput screens to find novel therapies for heart diseases, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCirculation Research·DateJan 18, 2016

Easier diagnosis for fungal infection of the lungs

A new clinical imaging method has been developed to tackle one of the main killers of patients with weakened immune systems. The method uses a combination of PET and MRI imaging to identify invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, allowing for faster and more accurate diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2016

Human sounds convey emotions clearer and faster than words

Researchers found that human brains recognize emotions through vocalizations just one-tenth of a second faster than speech, with anger signals producing longer brain activity. Anxious individuals exhibit a faster response to emotional voices compared to less anxious participants.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBiological Psychology·DateJan 18, 2016

Scientists demonstrate basics of nucleic acid computing inside cells

Researchers developed logic gates that can operate inside cells and interact with native messenger RNA, enabling a foundation for bio-computers to sense, analyze, and modulate molecular information. The tools could provide a basis for creating circuits with many inputs to control cellular behavior in response to stimuli.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 18, 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.

Finding the needle in a microbial haystack

A team of Penn Medicine researchers successfully identified a pathogenic agent in a patient sample using PathoChip technology, which rapidly identifies elusive microorganisms. The breakthrough could lead to faster and more effective treatment for life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCancer Biology & Therapy·DateJan 18, 2016

Scientists detect deep carbon emissions associated with continental rifting

A team of scientists has quantified deep carbon emissions associated with the East African Rift, revealing a significant source of CO2. The study found that faults along the rift act as permeable pathways for deeply-derived CO2, suggesting a previously unrecognized role in global climate change.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 18, 2016
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Technological obsolescence goes hand in hand with economic growth

A researcher at the University of the Basque Country has designed an economic model that reflects a country's economic evolution better by considering the relationship between technological obsolescence and economic growth. The model suggests a positive correlation between capital depreciation and long-term growth rates in 101 countries.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEconomic Modelling·DateJan 18, 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.

Eating less meat might not be the way to go green, say researchers

New research suggests that reducing beef production in Brazil could lead to higher global greenhouse gas emissions due to the need for farmers to recover degraded pastures and boost cattle productivity. This would potentially lower emissions by storing more carbon in the soil.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 18, 2016

To clean up ocean plastics focus on coasts, not the Great Pacific garbage patch

A new analysis suggests that placing plastic collectors near coasts is more beneficial for removing microplastics and preventing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. The study found that this approach could remove up to 31% of microplastics, compared to just 17% if all collectors were deployed within the Great Pacific garbage patch.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 18, 2016

Diamonds used to 'probe' ancient Earth

Three diamonds found in Johannesburg show that plate tectonics was in operation on Earth as early as 3.5 billion years ago, revealing key findings about the ancient planet's history.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 18, 2016