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Science News Archive March 2016


Page 30 of 41

How to predict pediatric post-concussion symptoms: Published in JAMA

A new study developed a validated clinical prediction score to help health providers and researchers predict the duration of pediatric concussion symptoms. The score, based on nine clinical variables, was proven significantly better than physicians' predictions in predicting persistent post-concussion symptoms.

Violin varnish: Key to a fiddle's tone

Researchers found that varnish increases damping throughout the wood surface, leading to a more isotropic sound radiation. The type of varnish used can also affect the sound, with German master violin makers' varnishes producing a louder tone.

2016 Protein Society Awards

The 2016 Protein Society Awards recognized Dr. Gary Pielak, Dr. Rachel Klevit, Dr. H. Eric Xu, and Dr. Andreas Plückthun for their groundbreaking contributions to protein science. The winners received prestigious awards sponsored by Rigaku Corporation, Genentech, The Neurath Foundation, and The Protein Society.

UC San Diego biophysicists discover how hydra opens its mouth

Researchers tracked individual cells in Hydra to reveal the mechanism behind its mouth opening, which involves dramatic elastic deformations of epithelial cells. The findings solve a long-standing puzzle on how Hydra feeds and offer insights into tissue formation and patterning in simple organisms.

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.

NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in thermal vacuum testing

The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is being tested in a thermal vacuum chamber to evaluate its performance under extreme conditions. The 22-day test will assess the spacecraft's instruments and systems, ensuring they can withstand the harsh environment of space.

Syntax is not unique to human language

Researchers found that Japanese great tits use specific rules to combine calls and convey compound messages, demonstrating non-human syntax. The study suggests that syntax may be a general adaptation to social complexity in communication systems.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nature: KIT simulation analyzes cosmic rays

Recent measurements from the LOFAR radio telescope have provided new insights into the properties of cosmic rays, including a surprisingly high number of light particles at high energies. The KIT simulation code CoREAS has enabled precise analysis and interpretation of these signals.

Why Hurricane Irene fizzled as it neared New Jersey in 2011

A Rutgers-led study published in Nature Communications found a dynamic ocean process responsible for cooling coastal waters ahead of land-falling hurricanes. This process weakened Hurricane Irene as it neared New Jersey in 2011, improving forecasts and reducing losses linked to inaccuracies.

Scientists find brain cells that know which end is up

Researchers found neurons in a color-recognizing region of the brain that can infer gravity direction from visual cues. These cells provide critical information for object physics, balance, and posture., The study suggests these cells help humans orient themselves and predict object behavior.

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.

Bird communication: Chirping with syntax

Researchers discovered Japanese great tits have developed syntactic rules, combining calls like 'ABC' and 'D' to convey specific meanings. These birds use these rules to deter predators and attract partners, demonstrating a complex form of communication.

NAI conference spotlights the innovation process

The NAI Conference featured presentations on the importance of invention in academic institutions and its impact on everyday life. The Special Section includes articles on the discovery of Lyrica and the commercialization process, while a new T&I feature profiles Nobel Laureate Steven Chu.

Everyone sees the world through their own prism

Researchers found that a person's preconceived ideas, shaped by socialization and politics, influence their views on climate protection. Economic justifications and personal aspects like health do not sway skeptics, highlighting the need for comprehensive communication strategies.

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.

Sea level rise threatens larger number of people than earlier estimated

A new study estimates that 1.9 billion people, or 28% of the world's total population, live closer than 100 km from the coast in areas less than 100 meters above the present sea level. By 2050, this number is predicted to increase to 2.4 billion, with 500 million people living lower than 5 meters above current sea level.

Inside the mouth of a hydra

A study published in Biophysical Journal illustrates the biomechanics of Hydra's mouth opening process, revealing that cells stretch and deform to accommodate the widening of its mouth. The researchers found that radially oriented fibers contract to stretch the cells apart, similar to muscle contraction.

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.

New insights into the functional organization of the somatosensory cortex

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience used electrophysiological and optical approaches to visualize and manipulate neuronal activity in individual neurons of the somatosensory cortex. They found that the formation of functional microcircuits was determined by specific settings and the number of neurons stimulated...

Do gun restrictions help reduce gun deaths?

A review of 130 studies across 10 countries found that firearm-related laws led to declines in firearm homicide and suicide rates. Laws regulating background checks and storage also showed specific reductions in certain types of gun deaths.

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.

How weight affects 'wait!'

A study by University of Iowa researchers found that children with higher body mass indices were more impatient, impulsive, and prone to collisions while crossing the street. They were also less likely to select the safest route, a risk factor for pedestrian injuries.

Shareholders rate women board members more highly than men

Researchers find that companies with women on their boards are valued more highly by stock markets, but only because the best women have worked harder to get there. The study suggests that firms should apply equal standards for both men and women to select board members.

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.

A gut check for PCOS-related obesity

Researchers discovered that changes in gut bacteria are strongly associated with PCOS-related obesity and signs of diabetes. Modifying the gut microbiome may be a potential treatment option for women with PCOS.

Some assembly required to boost robot ratings

Researchers found that participants who assembled their own robots experienced a higher sense of accomplishment and ownership. However, those who faced difficulties during assembly lowered their ratings. The study suggests that manufacturers should balance positive and negative aspects of self-assembly when designing robots.

Skin cancer teams up with Sonic the Hedgehog

Lomonosov Moscow State University scientists discovered that skin cancer basal cell carcinoma contains gene mutations linked to other cancer types, including melanoma. The study found that 85% of BCC cases contain Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway gene mutations, which resist anticancer therapy.

First case of acute myelitis in a patient infected with Zika virus

A young patient infected with Zika virus presented with motor deficiency, intense pain, and urinary retention. Researchers detected high concentrations of the virus in cerebrospinal fluid and treated the patient with methylprednisolone, leading to improved neurological conditions.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Voters prefer to be represented by extortioners

In a climate game experiment, researchers found that 40% of participants chose representatives with extortionate strategies. However, these strategies ultimately led to successful outcomes due to the benefit for all parties involved. The results suggest that such strategies could be beneficial in avoiding dangerous climate change.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Unique optical trapping system offers way to launch high-power laser light

Researchers have demonstrated a unique optical trapping system that can efficiently couple high-power laser light into hollow-core fibers. The system uses a self-aligning method to trap tiny tapered glass fiber inside the hollow core, with potential applications in laser cutting and basic physics research.

Being short or overweight linked to reduced life chances

A study by the BMJ found that shorter height and higher BMI are associated with lower levels of education, job status, and income, particularly among men and women. The research suggests that taller stature is linked to higher social position, while being overweight or short can lead to socioeconomic disadvantages.

APLU task force supports tech transfer for tenure & promotion in academia

The APLU task force suggests that universities consider the value of technology transfer activities in tenure and promotion decisions, with a focus on merit-based recognition rather than requirement. The task force recommends flexibility in evaluating technology transfer work, weighing impact, quality, and societal benefit.

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.

Game apps for creative kids

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed new augmented creativity apps that combine virtual elements with real-life environments, enhancing children's creativity and social skills. The interactive colouring book and collaborative games in 3D showcase the potential of augmented reality to transform public spaces into engaging experiences.

Small cuts, big outcomes

A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada found that less invasive hysterectomies resulted in quicker recoveries, fewer complications, and cost savings for The Ottawa Hospital. The research showed a significant increase in minimally invasive surgeries from 40% to 74% between 2005 and 2012.

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.

Nothing to sneeze at -- battling mucus to beat cancer

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have identified a gene target called GCNT3 that may offer promise in improving the treatment of pancreatic cancer. By targeting this gene, they theorized that multiple mucins could be shut down simultaneously, breaking down cancer's protective barrier.

Mix and match MOF

A team of scientists has created a composite material that can selectively separate oxygen from other gases, potentially revolutionizing energy applications such as fuel cells. The new material, made by combining a MOF with a helper molecule, shows promise for being inexpensive, reusable, and easy to prepare.

Family technology rules: What kids expect of parents

A new study reveals that kids expect parents to follow strict household technology rules, including no texting while driving and no oversharing on social media. The researchers found that families who developed collective rules and lived by them were more successful in enforcing these rules.

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.

Researcher asks what makes a species by looking closely at lizards

A University of Kansas researcher is questioning traditional methods for defining species by studying the genetic basis for species differences in lizards. He found that variation in dewlap colors and patterns, previously used to separate subspecies, were not a reliable sign of underlying genetic differences.

Brain activity of nematodes seeking food offers new view on sleep

Researchers at University of Oregon discovered a connection between brain activity in nematode worms and human sleep disorders, finding similar fragmentation patterns. This study provides a framework to understand genetic and physiological underpinnings of neural circuitry involved in sleep.

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.