Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive January 2016 - Page 21


Page 21 of 31

A coffee to keep New Year fitness resolutions

A study suggests that reducing perception of effort during exercise with caffeine can help people stick to their fitness plans. Researchers found that the majority of people give up on exercising within six months due to lack of motivation and physical exertion, which is a natural response to conserve energy. The use of psychoactive dr...

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalSports Medicine·DateJan 13, 2016

Green pea galaxy provides insights to early universe evolution

A team of scientists has found that compact dwarf galaxies, like the green pea galaxy J0925+1403, could explain cosmic reionization by ejecting ionizing photons into the intergalactic medium. This discovery opens a new avenue for understanding the early universe's 14 billion-year history.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 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.

Emotion dysregulation in borderline personality disorder: A problem of too much drive and too little control?

A new study reveals that individuals with borderline personality disorder exhibit enhanced amygdala activity and reduced dorsolateral prefrontal cortex function when processing negative emotions, suggesting a lack of control over emotional responses. This findings support the concept of BPD as a disorder of emotion dysregulation.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 13, 2016

Louisiana Tech University student coauthors research in ACS journal

A Louisiana Tech University senior has co-authored a paper on using halloysite clay nanotubes to create an antimicrobial coating that could help fight superbugs. The research was published in the prestigious journal Biomacromolecules, highlighting the potential for natural materials in biomedical technology.

SourceLouisiana Tech University·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateJan 13, 2016

Protecting workers with stiffer safety penalties

The new law allows OSHA to increase fines by 80% due to inflation, making maximum charges $12,600 for serious violations. The Departments of Justice and Labor are coupling worker safety with criminal penalties, including environmental and fraud charges.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 13, 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.

New role for motor neurons discovered

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new role for motor neurons in influencing rhythmic movements. Motor neurons directly control the recruitment of upstream excitatory interneurons via gap junctions, indicating they are not passive recipients of signals from interneuronal circuits.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 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.

Study: Workplace flexibility benefits employees

A study by Phyllis Moen and Erin L. Kelly found that workers who participated in a pilot work flexibility program reported higher levels of job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and psychological stress. The research adds to the growing body of evidence showing that flexible work arrangements result in happier, healthier, and more product...

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJan 13, 2016

3-D images of megaenzymes may lead to improved antibiotics

McGill researchers have taken 3D images of a large section from a medicine-synthesizing enzyme in action. The images reveal the intricate way these proteins function and could lead to the development of new antibiotics. This breakthrough may bring scientists closer to understanding how many antibiotics are made.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2016

Research finds reason advertising boosts stock prices for some companies and not others

New research from Indiana University finds that companies with a differentiation strategy benefit more from advertising than those with a cost leadership approach. Advertising increases awareness and sales for differentiated firms, building brand equity and shareholder value. In contrast, cost leaders may not see an impact on their sto...

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateJan 13, 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.

Could campaigns like Dry January do more harm than good?

Two experts debate the impact of alcohol abstinence campaigns like Dry January, with one arguing they may have unintended consequences for heavy drinkers. On the other hand, another expert suggests that such campaigns can help people reflect on their drinking habits and make longer-term changes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 13, 2016

Screening technique to reinforce fight against ash dieback

A new screening technique has been developed to predict which ash tree seedlings are likely to survive the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. This technology could help maintain the UK's ash population and biodiversity by identifying non-disease-susceptible individuals before planting out.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 13, 2016

Mammals shape their microbiome to prevent disease

Researchers found that mice and humans produce microRNAs to control bacterial gene activity and shape the gut microbiome. These microRNAs can protect against intestinal diseases by regulating the composition of gut microbes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJan 13, 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.

Ancient going on nouveau

Researchers have evaluated the potential of ancient grains in modern agriculture, finding that they require reduced fertilization to prevent lodging. While they contain high amounts of protein, the quality is lower than in modern crops. However, these grains can enrich biodiversity and offer premium products through traditional methods.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateJan 13, 2016

'Radiolabeling' lets scientists track the breakdown of drugs

Researchers at Princeton University create a method to selectively radiolabel compounds with tritium atoms, allowing for the study of drug metabolism and potential development speedup. The technique uses an iron-based catalyst that can tolerate various solvents, enabling the tracking of drug breakdown in the body.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2016

New insights into animal-borne disease outbreaks

A recent study reveals that animal-borne diseases can persist in wider populations through repeated dispersal, leading to slower but more insidious transmission. This 'slow, smoldering' approach challenges traditional assumptions about disease outbreaks.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJan 13, 2016

What do lasers and oranges have in common? A possible cure for citrus greening

Researchers have discovered that lasers can improve the penetration of antibiotic treatments into citrus leaves, potentially offering a new approach to treating the deadly citrus greening disease. The method uses laser etching to create microscopic indentations in the leaf tissue, allowing for more effective delivery of substances.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 13, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Antisocial behavior: Understanding the influence of genes and the environment

A longitudinal study found that exposure to violence in childhood is linked to increased symptoms of conduct disorder and antisocial personality in adolescence and adulthood. The MAOA gene was also identified as a key moderator of this relationship, with certain variants increasing the risk of aggressive behavior and partner violence.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 13, 2016

An IRCM team unveils a mechanism that controls neuron production from stem cells

A study by IRCM researchers has discovered a mechanism that controls the production of neurons from stem cells. This discovery could lead to more effective cell therapies and targeted treatments against cancer, particularly in diseases causing blindness where specific retinal cells degenerate.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 13, 2016

Mosquito net safe to use in inguinal hernia repair

A Swedish-Ugandan study has shown that sterilized mosquito nets can replace costly surgical meshes in inguinal hernia repairs without compromising patient safety or treatment efficacy. The study involved over 300 adult males from rural Uganda and found no significant differences between groups.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 13, 2016

ISU professor: Teaching social justice to privileged students necessary for change

A researcher from Iowa State University found that social justice education initiatives often overlook the experiences of privileged students. Katy Swalwell's study reveals that affluent students may not be disturbed by what they're learning about injustice, instead focusing on how to use their privilege to make a difference.

SourceIowa State University·JournalCurriculum Inquiry·DateJan 13, 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.

NASA analyzes Hurricane Pali's rainfall rates

NASA analyzed data from GPM core observatory and Suomi NPP satellite, discovering the hurricane had an eye forming with heavy rain falling at 84.5 mm per hour on its eastern side. The storm's convective storms reached heights of over 12 km, while its strongest feeder band wrapped around its eastern side.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 13, 2016

New study to investigate how good antibodies go bad

A new study led by University at Buffalo researcher Jill Kramer aims to re-examine the role of IgM in Sjögren's syndrome. The research seeks to understand whether this protective antibody is also pathogenic, potentially leading to a better understanding of autoimmune diseases.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateJan 13, 2016

De-mystifying the study of volatile organic plant compounds

Volatile organic compounds protect plants from stress, attract insects for pollination and seed dispersal, and send warning signs to neighbor plants and animals. Plant VOC emissions contribute significantly to the atmosphere, emitting approximately 600 million tons of carbon annually.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 13, 2016

Common dementia drug found to improve Parkinson's symptoms

A study published in The Lancet Neurology found that people with Parkinson's who took the oral drug rivastigmine were 45% less likely to fall and steadier when walking. This breakthrough treatment has the potential to improve quality of life for millions worldwide.

SourceParkinson's UK·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJan 12, 2016

Ocean current in Gulf of Mexico linked to red tide

A new study found that the Loop Current plays a crucial role in sustaining Florida red tide blooms. The researchers discovered that when the Loop Current is in a northern position, it allows a bloom to continue under favorable conditions, but a southern position prevents it from being sustained.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalHarmful Algae·DateJan 12, 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.

Microbots individually controlled using 'mini force fields'

Microbots are controlled using individual magnetic fields from an array of tiny planar coils, allowing for independent movement and cooperative manipulation tasks. This technology aims to enhance manufacturing and biomedical research applications.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMicromachines·DateJan 12, 2016

How copper makes organic light-emitting diodes more efficient

Researchers from KIT and CYNORA directly measured the speed of intersystem crossing in a copper complex, improving the understanding of TADF mechanisms. This leads to enhanced energy efficiency in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), with potential applications in display technology.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 12, 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.

Singing in the brain: Songbirds sing like humans

A recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that songbirds' vocal muscles can change their function to produce different sound parameters, similar to a trained opera singer. The research, led by Samuel Sober, shows that the bird's brain directs complex changes in muscle combinations to create complex songs.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateJan 12, 2016

Racial disparity in premature births contributes significantly to infant mortality problem

A new study found a significant racial disparity in premature births among black women, which may explain much of the racial disparity in infant mortality. The study suggests that public health efforts should focus on access to prenatal care and preventive measures for high-risk black women.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 12, 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.

Researchers' advice to save the relationships of parents of small children

A University of Gothenburg study found that separation risks are higher among co-habitating partners and those with low education levels. The researchers offer five relationship tips: clear communication, sensuality in daily life, time together, affirmation, and seeking help when needed.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNordic Psychology·DateJan 12, 2016

Brain receptor regulates fat burning in cells

Scientists at Gladstone Institutes discovered a novel regulator of body weight: the P75 neurotrophin receptor. Lowering levels of p75 NTR protected mice from developing obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease on a high-fat diet. The receptor plays a key role in regulating metabolic processes that control body weight.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 12, 2016

Mental health conditions common among bariatric surgery patients

A meta-analysis found that 23% of bariatric surgery candidates have a current mood disorder, with depression being the most common condition. Bariatric surgery is associated with postoperative decreases in depression prevalence and severity, but not necessarily eating disorders or anxiety.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 12, 2016

Revealed: The awful anchor that lets UTIs take hold

Researchers have revealed the unique spring-like structure of E. coli pili, which allows it to withstand strong urine flow and infect the urinary tract. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for UTIs.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalCell·DateJan 12, 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.

A century after Endurance Shackleton diagnosed with 'hole in the heart'

Historians Ian Calder and Jan Till believe Shackleton may have had an atrial septal defect, a congenital heart condition commonly known as a 'hole in the heart'. Shackleton exhibited symptoms of breathlessness and weakness during expeditions, which experts now attribute to this condition.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJan 12, 2016

Gut reaction: Smart pill smells out the body's fiber factor

New smart gas sensing pills reveal how low & high-fibre diets affect gut health, offering clues for treating gut disorders. The research found that low-fibre diets produce more hydrogen gas in the small intestine and high-fibre diets produce more methane gas in the large intestine.

SourceRMIT University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 12, 2016

Standardized approach makes outpatient thyroid surgery safe for even the elderly, super-elderly

A recent study published in the journal Surgery found that outpatient thyroid surgery is safe for even the elderly and super-elderly, thanks to a standardized treatment approach. The study showed that while older patients have more comorbid conditions, complication rates held steady at 5-6 percent across all groups.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalSurgery·DateJan 12, 2016

What should be the role of computer games in education?

A new study discourages a sweeping transformation of conventional education to replace traditional curricula with game-based instruction. Instead, researchers recommend adding promising features to games, such as explanatory feedback and pregame activities, to enhance learning outcomes. Game features that improve student performance in...

SourceSAGE·JournalPolicy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences·DateJan 12, 2016

Traumatic brain injury induces mental impairments using mechanisms linked with Alzheimer's

A new study finds that traumatic brain injury induces mental impairments using mechanisms linked with Alzheimer's disease, specifically the toxic form of tau protein. The research suggests that TBI may share a common mechanism with neurodegenerative diseases, increasing the risk for dementia and other neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateJan 12, 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.

Satellites find sustainable energy in cities

Researchers at KIT have developed a method to estimate groundwater temperature from surface temperatures and building densities measured by satellites, revealing that 95% of areas studied had higher groundwater temperatures than surface temperatures. This discovery opens up new possibilities for sustainable energy production in cities.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 12, 2016

New type of antidepressant found to act quickly in mice

Researchers discovered a new type of antidepressant that acts quickly in mice, unlike current treatments which take weeks or months. The compound CGP3466B targets a new network of proteins and has fewer side effects than existing medications.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 12, 2016

Uncovering oxygen's role in enhancing red LEDs

Researchers at Lehigh University and international collaborators found that small quantities of oxygen are needed to enhance the optical properties of Eu-doped GaN devices. The study utilized native oxygen in Eu(RE)-doped GaN for enabling device compatibility in optoelectronic applications.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 12, 2016

New twists in the diffraction of intense laser light

Researchers at University of Strathclyde discovered that ultra-intense laser light passing through a thin foil can be used to control charged particle motion. This new observation has wide-reaching implications for advancing smaller, cheaper, laser-driven particle accelerators.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 12, 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.

New LED with luminescent proteins

Scientists have discovered a way to create BioLEDs using luminescent proteins in rubber, producing white light at a lower cost and with greater stability than traditional LEDs. The technology has the potential to replace expensive and scarce materials used in white LEDs.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 12, 2016

Greenland ice sheet melts more when it's cloudy

Clouds play a significant role in the melting of the Greenland ice sheet, with clouds enhancing meltwater runoff by a third. The study highlights the need for accurate cloud representations in climate models to estimate the amount of meltwater and mitigate global sea level rise.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2016