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Science News Archive January 2016 - Page 5


Page 5 of 31

Sedentary lifestyle spells more menopause misery

A large study of over 6,000 Latin American women found that sedentary lifestyles are associated with severe menopause symptoms, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and obesity. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of various health problems, including breast and colon cancer, dementia, and heart disease.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateJan 27, 2016

Can prison visitation reduce recidivism?

A study funded by the National Science Foundation investigates whether prison visitation can reduce recidivism rates and examines gender, racial, and ethnic differences in these patterns. The research aims to provide policy recommendations for improving prison visitation practices.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJan 27, 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.

New strategy for reducing readmissions: Get the family involved

A new study finds that educating and involving family members in the care of a loved one with memory loss can significantly reduce hospital readmissions. The study, conducted at Henry Ford Hospital, showed a 30% decline in 30-day readmission rates for patients with congestive heart failure.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalThe American Journal of Accountable Care·DateJan 27, 2016

Growth factor in brain tied to slower mental decline

A study published in Neurology found that individuals with higher BDNF protein levels had slower cognitive decline than those with lower levels. The researchers discovered a 50% reduction in cognitive decline for those in the highest 10% of protein expression compared to the lowest 10%.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 27, 2016

Women younger than 40 at melanoma diagnosis indoor tanned earlier, more

A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that women younger than 40 who were diagnosed with melanoma had initiated indoor tanning at an earlier age and reported more frequent tanning. The study suggests that indoor tanning is a significant risk factor for developing melanoma, especially among young women.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJan 27, 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.

Groundbreaking journal, Gender and the Genome, to launch in summer 2016

The journal will publish evidence-based original research on the impact of biological sex on 21st century technology and human life. Topics include sex-specific differences in genomic and cellular function, synthetic biology, and technological advances.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGender and the Genome·DateJan 27, 2016

Study shows zinc supplement boosted serum zinc levels and immunity in older adults

A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that zinc supplementation significantly improved serum zinc concentrations and T-cell function in older adults with low zinc levels. The researchers also discovered a positive correlation between serum zinc levels and the number and effectiveness of T-cells.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 27, 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.

Asthma and allergies: A protective factor in farm milk

Children who consume unprocessed farm milk have a lower risk of developing asthma due to its higher content of omega-3 fatty acids. The study found that the protective effect is specific and can be distinguished from other factors.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 27, 2016

Neuroticism predicts anxiety and depression disorders

A new Northwestern University and UCLA study found that young people with high neuroticism are highly likely to develop both anxiety and depression disorders. Researchers suggest a single intervention could help prevent the development of both conditions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateJan 27, 2016

Drugs and other contaminants found in private drinking wells on Cape Cod

Researchers at Silent Spring Institute found 27 unregulated contaminants in private well water samples on Cape Cod, including pharmaceuticals and flame retardants. The study suggests that backyard septic systems are likely the source of contamination, which poses health risks to 44 million Americans relying on private wells.

SourceSilent Spring Institute·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJan 27, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Corporate philanthropy can have a positive impact on employees

Researchers found corporate philanthropy has a positive impact on employees, particularly when donations are made to big, visible targets. Coupling donations with volunteer opportunities enhances this effect. The study's findings suggest employees care about the impact of their organization's giving efforts.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateJan 27, 2016

Long-term study shows impact of humans on land

Researchers from Arizona State University report on a 10-year project studying human interaction with land in the Mediterranean, finding thresholds for farming success and failure. Computer simulations help understand socio-ecological landscapes and predict future consequences.

SourceArizona State University·JournalAnthropocene·DateJan 27, 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.

Life expectancy three years longer for children born into smaller families

Children born into smaller families in developing countries have a life expectancy that is three years longer than those born into larger families. This finding shows that family planning programs have real health impacts on individuals and can provide a positive healthy developmental environment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateJan 27, 2016

Drug provides better kidney transplant survival rates than current standard of care

A worldwide study led by UC San Francisco and Emory University investigators found belatacept to be a better option for kidney transplant recipients, with lower mortality and graft loss rates. The drug's long-term benefits are seen in preserving kidney function and suppressing antibodies that cause late graft loss.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 27, 2016

Q: How many ways can you arrange 128 tennis balls? A: 10^250

Researchers at St John's College, University of Cambridge, developed a computer program that can answer the mind-bending puzzle of arranging 128 soft spheres. The solution, 10^250, vastly exceeds the total number of particles in the universe and has implications for understanding configurational entropy and its applications in physics ...

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalPhysical Review E·DateJan 27, 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.

Making liver tissue in the lab for transplants and drug screening

Scientists have created engineered liver tissue that closely mimics the real thing, with a metabolic rate closer to real-life levels than existing models. The new approach successfully simulated how a real liver would react to various drug combinations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 27, 2016

MS drug tied to rising JC virus antibody levels

A study published in Neurology found that people taking natalizumab for multiple sclerosis have a higher risk of developing JC virus-related infections, which can lead to fatal brain disease. Researchers monitored levels of anti-JC virus antibodies in patients treated with natalizumab and found a significant increase in risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 27, 2016

Nano-coating makes coaxial cables lighter

Researchers create flexible, high-performance coating that replaces metal braid with carbon nanotubes, benefiting airplanes and spacecraft. The new cable reduces weight by 97%, meeting military-grade standards for shielding and strength.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 27, 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.

Schizophrenia's strongest known genetic risk deconstructed

Researchers discovered that gene versions of C4 trigger runaway synaptic pruning during adolescence, leading to fewer brain connections and higher risk of developing schizophrenia. This finding offers a new potential target for interventions and treatments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2016

Uncertainties in tree-ring-based climate reconstructions probed

Current tree-ring-based climate reconstructions need improvement to account for uncertainty, suggests new research. Researchers developed a unified statistical modelling approach using Bayesian inference that simultaneously accounts for non-climatic and climatic variability.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalJournal of the American Statistical Association·DateJan 27, 2016

New record in nanoelectronics at ultralow temperatures

The research team successfully cooled electrons to 3.7 millikelvin in a nanoelectronic device, breaking the previous record of 4 millikelvin. This breakthrough enables the development of new quantum technologies, including quantum computers and sensors, which require extremely low temperatures.

SourceVTT Technical Research Centre of Finland·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 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.

Scientists build a neural network using plastic memristors

Researchers from Russia and Italy develop neural network based on polymeric memristors, enabling machine vision and intelligent control systems. The networks can learn and perform logical operations, offering a promising alternative to traditional computing methods.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOrganic Electronics·DateJan 27, 2016

Novel nanotechnology technique makes table-top production of flat optics a reality

Researchers from the University of Illinois have developed a simplified approach to fabricating flat, ultra-thin optics using plasmon-assisted etching. This technique enables simple etching without hazardous chemical agents, greatly simplifying design iteration steps and reducing workload in cleanrooms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2016

A better way to image metastatic prostate cancer

A recent study shows that a PET/CT scan using F-18-DCFBC is significantly more effective in detecting metastatic prostate cancer than other detection methods. The radiotracer targets prostate-specific membrane antigen, which is expressed in the majority of prostate cancers and associated with metastatic spread.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 27, 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.

Uncorrected farsightedness linked to literacy deficits in preschoolers

A multi-center clinical study funded by the National Eye Institute has shown that uncorrected farsightedness in preschool children is associated with significantly worse performance on a test of early literacy. Children with moderate hyperopia did poorly on the Test of Preschool Early Literacy, especially in print knowledge domain.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalOphthalmology·DateJan 27, 2016

HIV is still growing, even when undetectable in the blood

Researchers found that HIV persists in lymphoid tissue despite potent antiretroviral therapy, and that low-level replication maintains viral reservoirs. The study provides a new perspective on how to deliver drugs to effectively eradicate the virus.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2016

Creating 'greener' wrinkle-resistant cotton fabric

A team of researchers has developed a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective method for making wrinkle-resistant cotton fabrics. The new process uses citric acid and xylitol to create textiles without the need for hazardous formaldehyde, mitigating environmental and health concerns.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJan 27, 2016

How can peers, parents, schools and new media stop bullying?

A multi-tiered approach to stopping bullying is proposed, with recommendations for peers, parents, schools, and new media platforms. Peers can defend victims by sharing emotional reactions and offering support, while parents can facilitate communication about incidents through training.

SourceSAGE·JournalPolicy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences·DateJan 27, 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.

Prenatal exposure to flame retardants linked to poorer behavioral function in children

A new study from the University of Cincinnati suggests that prenatal exposure to flame retardants and PFASs may have a lasting impact on executive function in children, characterized by impairments in focus, working memory, delegation of tasks, and emotional control. The research evaluated levels of PBDEs and PFASs in mothers during pr...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateJan 27, 2016

Simplifying solar cells with a new mix of materials

A new mix of materials eliminates doping, a complex process that degrades performance, to create highly efficient silicon solar cells. The new design enables the creation of high-efficiency solar cells in just seven steps.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 27, 2016

Fun with Lego (molecules)

Scientists develop a system to assemble giant molecules with 'orthogonal' ends, allowing for precise control over superstructures ranging from cubes to wheels and sandwiches. This breakthrough enables potential applications in device creation and nano-architecture design.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 27, 2016
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.

Ancient rodent's brain was big ... but not necessarily 'smart'

New research on ancient rodent Paramys reveals its brain was larger than expected but smaller in the neocortex region. This suggests that brain evolution occurred differently in early rodents compared to primates, highlighting the limitations of using brain size as a measure of intelligence.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateJan 27, 2016

Genome of the flowering plant that returned to the sea

Seagrasses are unique flowering plants adapted to marine life, providing insights into climate warming and carbon burial. The Zostera marina genome reveals key adaptations, including rearranged metabolic pathways and different signalling mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2016

Pollinator competition may drive flower diversification

A study found that male hummingbirds drive female birds away from yellow-flowered plants, while females prefer red flowers due to male aggression. This competition may lead to the evolution of multiple flower forms to suit different pollinators.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 27, 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.

Gene study points towards therapies for common brain disorders

Researchers have pinpointed cell types responsible for common brain diseases, including Alzheimer's and Multiple Sclerosis. The findings suggest that developing medicines targeting microglial cells could offer hope for treating these conditions.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJan 27, 2016

Paracetamol use in pregnancy can cut female fertility, study finds

A recent study suggests that using paracetamol during pregnancy may reduce female fertility in subsequent generations. Researchers tested the effects of paracetamol and another painkiller on rats and found that female offspring had fewer eggs, smaller ovaries, and reduced reproductive function compared to those not exposed to the drugs.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 27, 2016

Edited stem cells offer hope of precision therapy for blindness

Researchers have successfully corrected a blindness-causing gene mutation in stem cells derived from a patient's skin cells, offering hope for personalized, precision medicine. The technology uses CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to repair the damaged gene, and the corrected tissue can be transplanted without harm.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 27, 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.

Seagrass genome sequence lends insights to salt tolerance

Researchers sequenced a seagrass genome, revealing genes that enable plants to adapt to saline environments. The study provides insights into salt tolerance and could inform crop breeding to improve resilience in the face of climate change.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2016

An alternative to platinum: Iron-nitrogen compounds as catalysts in graphene

Researchers have discovered a new class of catalysts that use iron-nitrogen compounds in graphene, achieving levels of activity comparable to platinum-based catalysts. The purification process allows for the creation of exclusively FeN4 centres, which provide high catalytic efficiency even without promoters.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 27, 2016

Recommendation to omit radiation therapy after lumpectomy is not frequently implemented

A new study found that nearly two-thirds of women aged 70 and older with stage I breast cancer who are eligible to safely omit subsequent radiation therapy do not receive it. Despite guidelines recommending against radiation therapy for this group, the study suggests a lack of compliance or poor awareness among healthcare providers.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJan 27, 2016

Ongoing HIV replication replenishes viral reservoirs during therapy

A new study funded by NIH suggests that ongoing HIV replication in lymphoid tissues maintains stores of the virus, a prerequisite for achieving a cure. Current ART regimens cannot eliminate persistent viral reservoirs, but sequencing data shows continued evolution over time without accumulating drug-resistant mutations.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 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.