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Science News Archive March 2016


Page 12 of 41

Dr. Mom and Dr. Dad: Juggling roles during residency training

A University of Missouri researcher suggests that residency training programs should provide supportive services to help physicians balance demanding work and personal lives as parents. The study found that residents with children face conflicts between their roles as medical trainees, physicians, and parents.

Why sexual harassment is worse than other types of abuse online

A study by Ohio State University found that women gamers experience persistent distress from sexual harassment, which affects their real-life experiences and causes them to quit playing. The survey showed that women don't easily dismiss sexist comments and threats, and instead recall them even after the game is over.

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.

Brain to foot: Come in, foot!

A new study by ETH Zurich researchers sheds light on the body representation in paraplegics, finding altered communication between the brain and foot. The study used a task to analyze participants' responses to pictures of foreign body parts, revealing longer response times for those with complete spinal cord damage.

Black fever beats drugs by adding just two DNA bases to its genome

The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute scientists discovered that the insertion of just two DNA bases into a gene helps the parasite overcome antimonial drug treatment. Whole-genome sequencing analysis revealed that the genetic landscape of L. donovani offers new insights into its evolutionary history and ability to develop drug resistance.

New chemistries found for liquid batteries

Researchers at MIT have discovered a new set of chemical constituents that could make liquid batteries more practical and affordable. The breakthrough uses calcium, an abundant element, to form the basis for both the negative electrode layer and molten salt in three-layer battery.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Predicting severe hail storms

Researchers at University of Oklahoma are developing a higher-resolution model that uses Stampede supercomputer to predict severe hail storms with greater accuracy. The goal is to provide 2-hour warnings for storms like the May 1995 Fort Worth Mayfest storm, which caused over $2 billion in damage.

Mindfulness meditation eases chronic low back pain

Researchers at Group Health Research Institute discovered that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) can alleviate chronic low back pain, with improvements seen at six months and one year compared to usual care. MBSR training led to significant reductions in functional limitations and self-reported back pain.

Use of mindfulness-based stress reduction for chronic low back pain

A study published in JAMA found that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive behavioral therapy resulted in greater improvement in back pain and functional limitations compared to usual care. MBSR focused on increasing awareness of moment-to-moment experiences, including physical discomfort and difficult emotions.

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.

New guideline addresses long-term needs of head and neck cancer survivors

The new guideline provides recommendations for key areas of clinical follow-up care for head and neck cancer survivors, including surveillance for recurrence, screening for second primary cancers, and assessment of physical and psychosocial effects. It aims to improve care and health outcomes for this growing population.

Noise disrupts the tactile skills of premature babies

A study by the University of Geneva found that excessive noise disrupts premature babies' tactile skills, hindering their ability to memorize shapes and distinguish between objects. The researchers suggest implementing environmental measures to reduce noise levels in neonatal units to support optimal brain development.

Protecting the pancreas: Compound fights fibrosis in animal model

Researchers found a compound that prevents scarring in the lungs and liver also shows promise in preventing pancreatic fibrosis. The study used an animal model to demonstrate the effectiveness of the integrin inhibitor in halting fibrosis and potentially preserving pancreatic function.

Making the most out of biological observations data

The EU BON project published guidelines for standardized, easy-to-find, re-shareable, and re-usable biodiversity data. The report aims to increase interoperability of data and make its re-use both easy and legal. EU BON also promotes the use of biodiversity data as a common resource for human society.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Why do sunbathers live longer than those who avoid the sun?

New research found that women with active sun exposure habits had a lower risk of heart disease and noncancer deaths. Smokers in the highest sun exposure group were at a similar risk as non-smokers avoiding sun exposure. The study's findings suggest that guidelines regarding sun exposure may be too restrictive, potentially harming health.

Record-speed data transmission could make big data more accessible

University of Illinois researchers have achieved record-breaking speeds for fiber-optic data transmission, reaching 57 Gbps at room temperature and 50 Gbps at higher temperatures. This technology could enable faster data transfer and use of large data streams in applications such as virtual reality.

Many targeted cancer therapies suppress T cell immune responses

Researchers found that dozens of targeted therapies inhibit T cell activity, which can help fight tumors. However, pairing these drugs with an IL-15 superagonist stimulates T cell activity, preserving cancer-blocking effects. The study suggests a potential way to overcome immunosuppressive effects while maintaining anti-cancer benefits.

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.

Greenhouse gas mitigation potential from livestock sector revealed

A comprehensive analysis published in Nature Climate Change estimates that the livestock sector can account for up to half of the global agricultural, forestry and land-use sectors' mitigation potential. The study suggests integrating land use and practice change, dietary patterns and nutrition can help unlock this potential.

Study shows levels of panda hearing

A study published in Global Ecology and Conservation reveals that giant pandas can detect sound into the ultrasonic range, potentially disrupting their reproductive success due to noise from human activities. The San Diego Zoo's contribution to this research has provided crucial insights into panda hearing sensitivity.

Printing nanomaterials with plasma

Researchers developed a new method that uses plasma to deposit nanomaterials onto flexible surfaces and 3-D objects. The technique can produce wearable chemical and biological sensors, flexible memory devices, batteries, and integrated circuits with improved efficiency and reduced costs.

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.

ASAA's SleepHealth mobile study app grows along with Apple

The SleepHealth app tracks users' sleep quality, duration, and related health issues, providing insights for research and a personalized tool to improve well-being. The app aims to accelerate treatments and interventions for sleep disorders, impacting public health.

More ancient viruses lurk in our DNA than we thought

Researchers discovered 19 new non-human DNA sequences from ancient viruses, one containing a complete viral genome, found in 50 out of 2,500 human genomes. The study sheds light on how humans and viruses have evolved together over time.

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.

Immunoproteasome inhibits healing function of macrophages

The immunoproteasome regulates alternative macrophage activation by inhibiting IL-4 signaling, reducing repair and clean-up functions. Targeted treatment with specific inhibitors may accelerate healing processes in the lung after acute pneumonia.

New method measures nicotine delivery from e-cigarettes

A new study evaluates a method for measuring nicotine delivery from e-cigarettes and finds that later-generation e-cigarettes with 'atomizers' deliver nicotine more consistently than earlier ones. The consistency of nicotine delivery from these atomizers is comparable to nicotine inhalers and tobacco cigarettes.

Ancient seaweed fossils some of the oldest of multicellular life

Researchers have found ancient multicellular marine algae fossils over 555 million years old, providing crucial insights into the earliest evolution of multicellular life. The discovery helps scientists understand life in the Ediacaran Period and its correlation with Earth's ancient environments.

Use of open access platforms for clinical trial data

A study found that only 15.5% of available clinical trials were requested through open access platforms, suggesting underutilization due to lack of awareness or funding support. The researchers called for promoting the use of shared clinical trial data to increase transparency and validation studies.

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.

Microsoft's Xbox Kinect breathes new life into respiratory assessment

Researchers have developed a low-cost prototype using Xbox Kinect sensors to assess respiratory function, providing more accurate measurements than traditional spirometry methods. The system enables physicians to measure and assess how a chest wall moves, which could help identify numerous respiratory problems.

New treatment reduces precancerous polyps in hereditary cancer patients

A new two-drug combination significantly reduces the number and size of precancerous polyps in the small intestine of hereditary cancer patients. Researchers found a 71% overall reduction in polyps, with most side effects being tolerable, offering a promising prevention treatment for this high-risk patient group.

Gene variants found to strongly improve bone density in girls

Researchers have identified rare genetic changes that significantly increase bone density in girls, which may protect against osteoporosis and fractures in women. The study highlights the importance of promoting bone health during childhood and adolescence to reduce future risks.

Scientists offer new insight on rare genetic condition

Researchers used MRI to study the effects of PKU on gray matter in the brain. They found evidence of abnormalities in individuals with early-treated PKU, particularly in posterior regions. The study's findings highlight the importance of maintaining dietary treatment throughout life to prevent irreversible damage.

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.

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.

DNA molecules directly interact with each other based on sequence, study finds

Researchers discovered that DNA molecules interact directly with each other based on their sequence and epigenetic factors, suggesting a new mechanism for DNA organization in the cell. The study found that methyl groups play a key role in regulating these interactions, which could impact gene expression and chromosome organization.

Social media use associated with depression among US young adults

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found a significant association between social media use and depression among US young adults. Participants who spent more time on social media had a higher risk of depression, with some platforms showing stronger correlations than others.

UMD receives $10 million from USDA for sustainable water reuse, food, and health

The University of Maryland School of Public Health will lead a $10 million grant from the USDA to develop innovative, safe and sustainable ways to irrigate food crops in variable climates. The CONSERVE Center of Excellence aims to identify alternative water sources and new treatment technologies for contaminant-free irrigation.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Improving benchtop particle accelerators

The study proposes a technique to increase the number of electrons trapped in the wake of the laser pulse, improving beam quality. This could lead to better technology for future accelerators and bring high energy physics experiments to more labs and universities.

USDA awards $8.5 million to improve communities' water sources

The US Department of Agriculture has awarded over $8.5 million in grants to support research, education, and outreach on improving water resource quality and quantity, particularly in areas affected by drought. The grants will help communities develop regional systems for sustainable use, reuse, flow, and management of water.

Is moderate drinking really good for you?

A new analysis of 87 studies found that many were flawed and did not support the claim that moderate drinking reduces mortality risk. In fact, occasional drinkers who had less than one drink per week lived the longest. The study suggests that alcohol may not be a panacea for good health.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Blending therapies improves treatment of severe anxiety: York U researcher

Researchers at York University found that integrating motivational interviewing (MI) into cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is more effective in treating severe generalized anxiety disorder. This approach helps patients overcome conflicting feelings and enhances motivation for change, leading to improved long-term outcomes.

More cost-effective cure for hepatitis C may be close

Researchers at Loyola University Health System have developed a new approach to treating hepatitis C, using mathematical models to predict when patients can safely stop taking direct-acting antiviral medication. This approach could lead to a 50% reduction in treatment cost and improved patient adherence.

Cricket players more successful when batting the 'wrong' way

Research published in Sports Medicine suggests that adopting a reversed stance provides technical advantages, allowing the dominant hand to control the bat's path. The study found that half of Australian batsmen and 40% of English batsmen use this stance, giving them an edge in international competitions.

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.