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Science News for July 15, 2016


Repeated stimulation treatment can restore movement to paralyzed muscles

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have developed a novel rehabilitation method that uses paired associative stimulation to restore movement in patients with spinal cord injuries. After six months of treatment, two patients showed significant improvements, including bending and grasping abilities.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalSpinal Cord Series and Cases·DateJul 15, 2016

How can medical centers transform their patient safety culture?

A study found that a Crew Resource Management (CRM) training program improved perceptions of the safety culture by 8% over two years. The program addressed team communication, leadership, and decision-making practices to enhance teamwork and reduce errors.

SourceSAGE·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateJul 15, 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.

Alternating periods of high- and low-entropy neural ensemble activity during image processing in the primary visual cortex of rats

The study reveals alternating periods of high- and low-wavelet entropy (WS) in rat V1 during image processing, indicating dynamic LFPs with synchronized and complexly ordered activity. The parameters RWE and WS quantify neural population activity characteristics that may help decipher visual processing and object recognition.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Biomedical Engineering Journal·DateJul 15, 2016

Cell research could help with heart tissue transplants

Researchers have developed a new technique to improve heart tissue transplants by identifying specific patterns of proteins and molecules that promote growth. This study has moved the goal of using patient's own genetic material to grow body tissue closer, with potential applications for other types of tissue regeneration.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalBiotechnology and Bioengineering·DateJul 15, 2016

40-year-old chorus frog tissues vital to Louisiana hybrid zone study

Researchers found that chorus frogs now form hybrids across a broader area of Louisiana and Mississippi, with the hybrid zone expanding over time. The study's use of 40-year-old tissue samples preserved at the LSU Museum of Natural Science highlights the importance of museum collections in understanding biodiversity and speciation.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJul 15, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists move 1 step closer to creating an invisibility cloak

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have developed a composite material that can enhance specific properties on an object's surface, allowing curved surfaces to appear flat to electromagnetic waves. This practical demonstration could lead to improved antenna designs and applications in the aerospace industry.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 15, 2016

NASA sees Darby's clouded eye

Hurricane Darby's eye features powerful thunderstorms and a ragged 25 nautical mile-wide center. The storm is expected to weaken due to cooler sea surface temperatures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 15, 2016

Solving a plant-based Rubik's cube puzzle

Researchers at John Innes Centre discover a key 'twist' in producing heteroyohimbine compounds, which could lead to new and effective pharmaceuticals. The study reveals the importance of specific amino acid sequences in controlling stereoselectivity during compound synthesis.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2016

Rare fungus product reduces resistance to antibiotics

Researchers have discovered a rare fungus that produces compounds effective against both normal and resistant Staphylococcus aureus pathogens. The six most active compounds, including the previously unknown cyclo-(L-proline-L-methionine), boost the activity of other antimicrobial compounds.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJul 15, 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.

Pushing a single-molecule switch

Researchers activate a single molecule switch using an atomic-force probe, revealing the need for precise positioning and chemical reactivity. The study's findings could lead to new control of chemistry at the atomic level.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 15, 2016

Cancer-fighting gene immunotherapy shows promise as treatment for HIV

Researchers from UCLA have discovered a type of cell called chimeric antigen receptors that can be used to kill HIV-infected cells. CARs are artificially created immune T cells engineered to produce receptors designed to target and kill specific cells containing viruses or tumor proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJul 15, 2016

New tool calculates emissions impacts, energy benefits from smart grid investments

A new tool developed at PNNL estimates greenhouse gas and emission reductions from smart grid investments, providing insights for utilities and industry to justify investments. The Emissions Quantification Tool considers various factors, including electric vehicle charging schedules, battery-stored energy, and solar generation integrat...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJul 15, 2016

How new HIV drugs lock virus in immaturity

Researchers have discovered how new HIV drugs work by locking the immature form of the virus in place, preventing it from maturing and infecting other cells. The study provides insights into the workings of these drugs and their resistance to mutations.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJul 15, 2016

Global study shows stroke largely preventable

A global study confirms that 90% of strokes can be prevented by modifying 10 modifiable risk factors, including hypertension, physical activity, and diet. The ranking of these factors varies by region, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to reduce stroke risk.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 15, 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.

A 'bridge' of carbon between nerve tissues

Scientists have created a high-tech material that connects neurons in vitro and is compatible with living organisms in vivo. The 'carbon sponge' stimulates growth of nerve fibers and enables functional connections between different neural populations.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 15, 2016

Optical magnetic field sensor can detect signals from the nervous system

Researchers have developed an optical magnetic field sensor that can detect ultra-small magnetic fields from the nervous system. The sensor uses a gas of caesium atoms and measures electrical impulses without contact, offering new possibilities for medical diagnoses.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 15, 2016

New protocol enables analysis of metabolic products from fixed tissues

A team of scientists at Helmholtz Munich developed a protocol to analyze metabolite composition in fixed tissues using mass spectrometry imaging. This method allows for the study of spatial distribution of molecules with high precision, enabling the identification of new predictive, diagnostic and prognostic markers.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Protocols·DateJul 15, 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.

NSF leads federal effort to boost advanced wireless research

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is investing over $400 million in fundamental wireless research and infrastructure development. This support will enable novel technologies, applications, and services that can transform daily life through ultra-high-speed, high-bandwidth, and low-latency connectivity.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateJul 15, 2016

Selecting good 'drug-like' properties to optimize small molecule blood-brain barrier penetration

Researchers review physicochemical properties necessary to penetrate the BBB and conclude a list of properties that can increase the chances of small molecule penetration into the brain. The study emphasizes the importance of retaining the pharmacophore and working it into a structure that emphasizes the presented properties.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Medicinal Chemistry·DateJul 15, 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.

Defining sarcopenic obesity is key to its effective treatment

Sarcopenic obesity is a combination of low muscle mass and high fat mass, common in older adults. Research suggests that public health strategies are needed to prevent and treat this condition, which increases risks of mobility issues, metabolic disease, and mortality.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalFuture Science OA·DateJul 15, 2016

Study points to fast-acting drug for OCD

A Duke University study found a single chemical receptor in the brain responsible for OCD symptoms in mice. The receptor, mGluR5, was found to be overactive in mice with Sapap3 gene deletion, which mimics human OCD. When blocked, symptoms abated immediately.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 15, 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.

International team describes step-by-step progress in battling toxoplasmosis

Researchers from 14 institutions describe three significant steps forward in combating toxoplasmosis, including the discovery of critical molecular targets for new medicines and compounds effective against malaria. The findings offer renewed hope for the development of curative treatments for those with toxoplasmosis.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 15, 2016

Adjuvant chemotherapy in early-stage colon cancer may improve survival

Researchers have found an association between adjuvant chemotherapy and improved survival in stage 2 colon cancer patients, contradicting current clinical guidelines. The study analyzed 153,110 patients with stage 2 colon cancer and found that those who received adjuvant chemotherapy survived longer than those who did not.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalCancer·DateJul 15, 2016

Printable prosthetics

Researchers at FAU and Fachhochschule Lübeck developed custom-fit prosthetics using 3D scanning and printing, suitable for local production with recycled materials. The first prototypes have been printed and are being tested for longevity and stress resistance.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateJul 15, 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.

Biochemists feed 'poison pill' to deadly virus with a funny name

Researchers at Colorado State University have designed a genetic modification that strips the ability of coxsackievirus B3 to replicate and cause disease. By changing a specific amino acid in the RNA polymerase enzyme, they aim to create a live-attenuated vaccine to protect against this virus and others like it.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 15, 2016

Sex in the city: Peregrine falcons in Chicago don't cheat

Despite living in close proximity, Peregrine falcon pairs in Chicago remain monogamous through the years, with only one case of infidelity detected. Researchers used DNA testing and observations to study the birds' mating habits, contradicting initial assumptions about their behavior.

SourceField Museum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 15, 2016

Race, not gender, is key factor in NIH awards

A new study led by University of Kansas economist Donna Ginther found that race is the key factor influencing NIH awards, with black and white applicants facing significant gaps in funding. White women have a slight advantage over men in receiving NIH Type 1 awards, while women of color face disadvantage due to racial bias.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateJul 15, 2016

Protein pairs make cells remember

Researchers have discovered that protein pairs are essential for cellular memory, allowing cells to store and recall information. The formation of these pairs enables cells to respond more quickly to environmental stimuli and differentiate into specialized cells.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 15, 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.

'Noah's Ark' ex silico

An international team of researchers is using big-data approach to plan effective conservation by modeling climate-change response of over 100,000 species. The project aims to identify regions and ecosystems that preserve biodiversity and critical ecosystems, reducing extinctions due to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateJul 15, 2016

Proteins team up to turn on T cells

Researchers at Caltech investigate the genetic switch that directs cells to become T cells, discovering a multi-tiered process involving four proteins that work together in three distinct steps. This finding has potential applications in boosting T-cell populations and fighting diseases such as AIDS.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 15, 2016

Garlic aroma found in breast milk

Researchers at FAU found garlic aroma in breast milk due to AMS metabolite formation. Further research is needed to clarify potential impact on infants' eating habits and food preferences.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalMetabolites·DateJul 15, 2016

Early echocardiography to study pulmonary hypertension in mouse model of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

A new mouse model of bronchopulmonary dysplasia has been developed to study pulmonary hypertension, enabling the detection of the disease at an earlier time point through echocardiography tests. This breakthrough could lead to improved diagnoses and more effective treatments for premature infants.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease·DateJul 15, 2016

Reopening avenues for attacking ALS

Harvard Stem Cell Institute researchers found that bone marrow transplantation extended the lifespan of mice with a common ALS-causing gene mutation by 43 days. The study suggests that the gene operates at a crossroads between disease and autoimmunity, and may hold key to developing therapies for specific subpopulations of ALS patients.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 15, 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.

Prevalence of diagnosed sleep disorders has risen among US veterans

A six-fold increase in diagnosed sleep disorders among US veterans has been reported, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experiencing the largest rate increases. The study found that veterans with cardiovascular disease or other chronic conditions also experienced higher rates of sleep disorder diagnoses.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateJul 15, 2016

Penn study: Friendly competition and a financial incentive increases team exercise

A study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that comparing performance to peers and offering financial incentives increased physical activity among teams. The results showed that combining social comparison feedback with financial incentives led to the highest rate of achieving exercise goals.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateJul 15, 2016