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Science News Archive March 2016 - Page 33


Page 33 of 41

Multi-scale simulations solve a plasma turbulence mystery

Physicists have made breakthrough in understanding plasma turbulence that drives fusion energy, using high-resolution multi-scale simulations. The study resolves multiple turbulence instabilities and explains heat loss mismatch between theoretical predictions and experimental observations.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateMar 7, 2016

New findings suggest severe tornado outbreaks are increasingly common

Researchers found that the average number of tornadoes per outbreak increased by 50% from 1954 to 2014, while the total number of tornadoes remained largely unchanged. This suggests that tornadoes are increasingly clustered in outbreaks, making extreme events more likely.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 7, 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.

Variation in medical marijuana program regulations impacts enrollment

A study by Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that medical marijuana programs with less regulation had higher enrollment rates, raising concerns about potential recreational users. The analysis of state-specific characteristics highlights the need for policymakers to differentiate among programs to interpret the effects of...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 7, 2016

Predicting avoidable 30-day readmissions

A multicenter study found that the HOSPITAL score accurately predicted patients at high risk of a 30-day potentially avoidable readmission. Patients identified as high risk were four times more likely to be readmitted within 30 days, and the score showed an excellent ability to identify these patients.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 7, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Zebrafish and humans have new biomedical friend in the spotted gar

A genome sequencing project has identified the spotted gar as a genetically sound bridge between zebrafish and humans, enabling advancements in biomedical research on human diseases. The gar's genome retains ancestral characteristics lost by other fishes or humans, making it an evolutionary repository of ancient genetic materials.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 7, 2016

Potential Western Atlantic spawning area found for Atlantic bluefin tuna

Scientists have identified a new potential spawning ground for Atlantic bluefin tuna in the Slope Sea off the northeastern US coast. This finding challenges the long-held assumption of a single Gulf of Mexico spawning area, suggesting that western Atlantic bluefin may be less vulnerable to fishing and stressors.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 2016

Current treatment options for SLE published by Dove Medical Press

The review discusses conventional immunosuppressive agents and biologic therapies, including rituximab and belimumab, as effective treatments for refractory SLE. Managing co-morbidities like cardiovascular risk factors and bone health is also crucial in SLE treatment.

SourceDove Medical Press·JournalImmunoTargets and Therapy·DateMar 7, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Spider toxin analogue may help relieve pain

A spider toxin analogue, PnPP-19, has shown promise in relieving pain by targeting nervous system receptors similar to opioids and cannabis. The compound is also being studied for erectile dysfunction treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateMar 7, 2016

Mercury's mysterious 'darkness' revealed

A team of scientists led by Patrick Peplowski used MESSENGER mission data to confirm a high abundance of carbon at Mercury's surface. The carbon most likely originated deep below the surface, in an ancient graphite-rich crust that was later brought to the surface through impact processes.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 7, 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.

Giant reed is a photosynthetic outlier, study finds

Researchers found that giant reed uses C3 photosynthesis despite being more productive than other crops, with exceptionally high Rubisco activity and efficient water use. This discovery could help improve C3 photosynthesis in other plants.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 7, 2016

Too many avoidable errors in patient care, says report

The report emphasizes that patient harm is preventable with a systems-based approach, empowering patients and staff to take ownership of safety. The reports also suggest the need for standardized incident reporting methods and effective training to improve patient safety.

SourceImperial College London·DateMar 7, 2016

Combining 2 techniques to 'rewire' the brain may improve arm and hand movement for stroke survivors

A new study found that combining peripheral nerve stimulation with constraint-based therapy enhances recovery of movement in the affected arm and hand, even after one year after a stroke. The technique takes advantage of the brain's neuroplasticity to reorganize or 'rewire' itself after injury.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateMar 7, 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.

CNIO scientists have discovered a code of signals that regulates genome duplication

Researchers at CNIO have discovered a code of signals that regulates the concentration of proteins involved in genome duplication. The USP7 protein acts as a traffic officer, eliminating ubiquitin marks to favor protein accumulation and DNA copying. This balance is essential for accurate genome replication.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 7, 2016

New evidence supports grapes' benefits to eye health

A diet rich in grapes helps preserve retinal structure and function by countering oxidative stress. Grapes' natural components promote antioxidant activity, suggesting potential benefits for eye health and preventing age-related macular degeneration.

SourceRomano & Associates, LLC·JournalNutrition Journal·DateMar 7, 2016

Leaf mysteries revealed through the computer's eye

A computer program developed by researchers can categorize leaves into large evolutionary categories, leading to improved fossil identification and a better understanding of flowering plant evolution. The method achieves a 72% accuracy rate over 19 leaf families compared to random chance.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 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.

The brain's gardeners: Immune cells 'prune' connections between neurons

A new study reveals that immune cells called microglia play a crucial role in rewiring brain connections, a process essential for neuroplasticity and learning. By 'pruning' unwanted connections, microglia enable the formation of new pathways between neurons.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 7, 2016

Hospitals participating in accountable care organizations tend to be large and urban

A study by The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice found that large, urban hospitals are more likely to participate in ACOs, which involve managing hospital care to improve quality and lower costs. Teaching hospitals and those with more services also tend to join ACOs.

SourceThe Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 7, 2016

Immune factor allows viral infections to become chronic

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified an immune factor responsible for chronic viral infections. The study found that a molecule called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) impairs the immune response in these cases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 7, 2016

Drug-loaded nanocarriers in tumor targeted drug delivery

Nanoparticulate drug carriers show promise in targeted cancer therapy, increasing therapeutic concentrations at tumor sites while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. This approach has the potential to improve treatment efficacy and reduce systemic toxicity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Biotechnology·DateMar 7, 2016

Healthy lifestyle advice provides long-term benefits

A study found that men who received healthy lifestyle advice for five years had a sustained 29% reduced risk of death from first heart attack, even after 40 years. Participants were advised to reduce saturated fats and increase fish and vegetable consumption.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateMar 7, 2016
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.

Towards the goal of precision therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma

Researchers aim to develop precision treatment for HCC by targeting genetic abnormalities and chromosomal alterations. Targeted agents such as sorafenib have been developed, but further research is needed to utilize molecular profiles for therapy selection.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Cancer Drug Targets·DateMar 7, 2016

Retail clinics may increase health spending, study finds

A recent study published in Health Affairs found that retail clinic visits may not be as cost-effective as previously thought. The research suggests that the convenience of retail clinics can lead to increased spending on new medical care, outweighing any potential savings from reduced office or emergency department visits.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 7, 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.

Some medications increase risk of blood vessel constriction in extremities

Researchers identified 12 classes of drugs and 4 main mechanisms that can cause small arteries to constrict in response to cold, limiting blood supply. A recent study published in British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology highlights the need for further investigation into this condition.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateMar 7, 2016

Fish populations revealed through seawater analysis

A research group has developed a method to measure fish DNA in seawater, revealing the distribution of marine species. The study found that environmental DNA (eDNA) concentration reflects the biomass within 10-150 meters of the location.

SourceKobe University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2016

Public corruption by officials may not be as rampant as reported

Researchers used objective datasets to examine US public corruption cases from 1986 to 2014. They found that overall corruption convictions are declining and mainly involve low-ranking officials, contrary to public perceptions of a rising trend.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPublic Integrity·DateMar 7, 2016
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.

Teen girls see big drop in chemical exposure with switch in cosmetics

A study of 100 Latina teenagers found a significant drop in levels of hormone-disrupting chemicals in the body after using personal care products labeled free of such chemicals. The study, led by researchers at UC Berkeley, highlights the importance of choosing products with fewer chemicals to reduce exposure.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateMar 7, 2016

International research team achieves controlled movement of skyrmions

Researchers have achieved controlled movement of individual skyrmions along a magnetic wire using electrical impulses at room temperature. This breakthrough is a significant step towards the development of new data storage technologies, offering improved energy efficiency and high storage density.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 7, 2016

Urinary tract infection: How bacteria nestle in

E. coli bacteria attach to the surface of the urinary tract via protein FimH, binding more tightly under flow conditions. This discovery could lead to development of FimH antagonists, reducing antibiotic use and resistance.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 7, 2016

NASA's James Webb Space Telescope secondary mirror installed

The James Webb Space Telescope's sole secondary mirror was successfully installed onto the telescope at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The mirror is supported by three struts and made of beryllium coated with gold to efficiently reflect infrared light.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2016

Penn professor urges physicians to help victims of torture seeking asylum

Medical evaluations of torture victims can significantly impact asylum-granting decisions, with success rates doubling when combined with legal support. Physicians are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive evaluations and advocate for human rights.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 7, 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.

What should medical researchers study next? You can help decide

The University of Michigan has launched WellSpringboard.org, a crowdsourcing and crowdfunding platform for medical research. The platform allows the public to submit ideas, vote on their favorites, and donate to support research projects. U-M researchers will be matched with top-rated ideas and allocated funds to pursue them.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMar 7, 2016

Shipwrecks, tree rings reveal Caribbean hurricanes in buccaneer era

A new study reveals a 75% reduction in Caribbean hurricanes from 1645-1715, a time with little sunspot activity and cool temperatures. The research uses shipwrecks as a proxy for hurricane activity and provides an annual record of Caribbean hurricanes going back to 1500.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 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.

Lack of stem cells to blame for recurrent miscarriages

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a lack of stem cells in the womb lining is causing thousands of women to suffer from recurrent miscarriages. The team believes a new treatment could bring hope to those who have suffered failed pregnancies, correcting defects before pregnancy and potentially preventing miscarriages.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalStem Cells·DateMar 7, 2016

Penn team reverses signs of naturally occurring chronic periodontitis

A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has successfully reversed signs of naturally occurring chronic periodontitis in a preclinical model. By delivering the Cp40 inhibitor to periodontal tissue once a week, inflammation was significantly reduced and reversals were seen after six weeks.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal Of Clinical Periodontology·DateMar 7, 2016

The expansion of the universe simulated

Physicists at Université de Genève developed a new code that simulates the rotation of space-time and gravitational waves in the formation of large-scale structures. This allows for more precise calculations than current codes, enabling the study of dark energy's role in the universe's expansion.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 7, 2016

Scaling up tissue engineering

Researchers at the Wyss Institute developed a method for bioprinting thick vascularized tissue constructs composed of human stem cells and extracellular matrix. The resulting tissues can sustain and function as living architectures for upwards of six weeks, enabling controlled perfusion of fluids, nutrients, and cell growth factors.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 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.

Fighting food poisoning in Las Vegas with machine learning

A University of Rochester-developed app helps health departments track foodborne illnesses using natural language processing and artificial intelligence. The app led to a 60% increase in citations for health violations, resulting in 9,000 fewer food poisoning incidents in Las Vegas.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 7, 2016

Eye cells may use math to detect motion

Researchers at NIH discovered that neurons in the eye use mathematical processing to distinguish moving objects, amplifying signals through multiplicative scaling. This process may help cells determine object speed and direction.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeuron·DateMar 7, 2016

Warming up optoelectronic research

A team of US/UK physicists has developed a new material that can control excitons at room temperature, making it easier to manipulate these bound pairs of electrons and electron holes. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new optoelectronic devices for commercial applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 7, 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.

HIV/AIDS long-term costs high -- and unaffordable to most-affected countries

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health finds that HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment will cost $261 billion if coverage is scaled up, exceeding domestic financing capabilities. The researchers emphasize the need for innovative funding sources to sustain control efforts.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 6, 2016

Hundred million degree fluid key to fusion: ANU media release

Scientists have solved a key puzzle in fusion energy by understanding the behavior of plasma waves. By applying fluid flow theory, they explained an unstable wave mode that had been observed in fusion experiments, making it possible to harness clean and endless energy.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 6, 2016

Young baseball players could benefit from preseason arm injury prevention programs

Research shows that young baseball pitchers who participate in preseason training programs experience improvements in arm flexibility and strength, potentially diminishing the risk of injuries. The study found that pitchers who had previous injuries were 4 times less likely to suffer an injury after participating in the program.

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateMar 5, 2016

Fatigue contributing factor in kid's pitching injuries

A study of elite adolescent pitchers found that fatigue significantly impacted pitching mechanics, causing pain and potentially leading to injuries. Core and leg strength were identified as key components in preventing such injuries through targeted training programs.

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateMar 5, 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.