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Science News Archive May 2016 - Page 22


Page 22 of 38

Gene and tonic: Genetic link in binge-drinking teens

Researchers identified a specific gene, KALRN, linked to impulsive behavior and binge drinking in teenagers. The study used a two-step approach to investigate genetic factors contributing to early experimentation with and abuse of alcohol.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateMay 12, 2016

Is sleeve gastrectomy a good choice for people with a sweet tooth?

A study published in Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques found that sleeve gastrectomy is effective for individuals classified as moderate or severe sweet eaters before the surgery. The procedure has shown promising weight loss results, even among those with high pre-surgery sweets consumption.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateMay 12, 2016

Smartphone-based system may improve health of patients with chronic diseases

A new smartphone-based system improved blood pressure control, reduced medication errors, and increased patient engagement among patients with chronic kidney disease. The system provided personalized feedback and alerts to clinicians, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 12, 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.

Finnish research shows inaccuracies in emission measurements of important greenhouse gas, N2O

A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland and others found significant inaccuracies in traditional chamber techniques for measuring nitrous oxide emissions from soils. The eddy covariance method with modern laser technology provides more accurate continuous measurements, averaging out spatial and temporal variations.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 12, 2016

Risks of heart attack, stroke may outweigh benefits of calcium supplement

A new analysis suggests that the moderate effect of calcium and vitamin D on fracture prevention is not large enough to outweigh the potential increased risk of cardiovascular disease. For 65-year-old women at low risk of bone fracture, the risks may outweigh the benefits.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateMay 12, 2016

Viruses detected in Swedish mosquito larvae

Researchers at Umea University have discovered that mosquito larvae in the Västerbotten region carry viruses that can cause infectious disease, including Sindbis virus and Inkoo virus. These findings indicate that the viruses can be transferred from female mosquitoes to their eggs.

SourceUmea University·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateMay 12, 2016

Scans reveal babies of mothers with gestational diabetes have more body fat

A new study published in Diabetes Care found that babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes have 16% more body fat at two months old compared to babies born to healthy mothers. The research used MRI scanning to measure body fat in 86 babies, revealing significant differences in body composition despite no differences at birth.

SourceImperial College London·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 12, 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.

Migrant money puts aid in the shade

A new study by Eric Akobeng reveals that international remittances have a significant impact on reducing poverty and inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa. The findings suggest a 10% increase in remittances as share of GDP leads to a decline in the number of people living on less than $1.25 per day, extreme poverty, and inequality.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Economics and Finance·DateMay 12, 2016

Bacteria are individualists

A recent study reveals that bacteria can differ significantly in their response to a lack of nutrients, allowing the group to continue growing even when some cells suffer. This phenomenon promotes flexibility and diversity within bacterial populations.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 12, 2016

Stopping cancer in its tracks

Researchers at the University of Chicago found that inhibiting autophagy, a cellular housekeeping process, effectively blocks tumor cell migration and breast cancer metastasis in tumor models. Autophagy is essential for tumor metastasis, and its inhibition can be an effective approach to block metastatic dissemination.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 12, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microwaved nanoribbons may bolster oil and gas wells

Researchers at Rice University developed a method to treat composite materials with microwaves, increasing their stability and strength in wellbores for oil and gas production. The treatment involved combining graphene nanoribbons with thermoset polymers and heating them with low-power microwaves.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 12, 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.

Experimental physicist Dmitry Budker receives an ERC Advanced Grant

Dmitry Budker, Experimental Atomic Physics professor at Mainz University, receives a EUR 2.5M ERC Advanced Grant to systematically search for dark sector particles. The project aims to identify new techniques using magnetic resonance and magnetometry to provide direct connections to the dark sector.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateMay 12, 2016

Surgical oncology societies: Global curriculum to address training variations, inadequacies

The Society of Surgical Oncology and European Society of Surgical Oncology propose a global curriculum to address training variations and inadequacies. The curriculum aims to create a robust workforce of well-trained surgical oncologists to meet the growing need resulting from the rising global cancer burden.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·JournalEuropean Journal of Surgical Oncology·DateMay 12, 2016

Dogs provide information about brain tumor development in humans

A recent study by Uppsala University researchers found that genetic analyses in dogs can identify genes linked to human brain tumors, specifically gliomas. The study identified three genes associated with glioma development in dogs, which are also present in humans and show reduced activity in tumor tissue.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 12, 2016

New gene for familial high cholesterol

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have identified a new gene linked to familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder causing very high blood cholesterol. High levels of lipoprotein(a) in the blood increase heart attack risk by five times.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateMay 12, 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.

When foes become friends

Researchers discovered that a few changes in the genome are sufficient to turn a fungal plant pathogen into a potentially beneficial organism. The beneficial fungus has gained new genes and lost others, leading to reduced effector proteins needed to suppress the plant's immune system.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2016

Online therapy effective at treating depression and anxiety

A randomized controlled trial found online computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (CCBT) to be an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. The study, led by the University of Pittsburgh, showed that CCBT programs can provide significant improvements in mood and anxiety symptoms, even when used alone or in combination with int...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateMay 12, 2016

Boston Cancer Support to receive ASTRO Survivor Circle grant

Boston Cancer Support, a nonprofit organization, will receive an $8,500 ASTRO Survivor Circle grant to support its work providing patient transportation and online resources. The organization aims to alleviate one of the largest issues faced by cancer patients: affordable transportation to treatments.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateMay 12, 2016

New innovations to combat resistant infections

Researchers at the University of Bristol are developing novel diagnostic tests and nanopatterned surfaces to combat resistant infections. A new rapid diagnostic test can predict effective antibiotics, reducing reliance on strongest options. Novel antimicrobial surfaces could improve biomedical devices and implant success rates.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMay 12, 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.

Kidney disease may increase hospitalized patients' risk of complications

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at a higher risk of experiencing hospital-acquired complications when hospitalized. A study of 536,549 adults found that CKD patients were 19% more likely to experience complications than those with normal kidney function, with the risk increasing as CKD severity worsened.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 12, 2016

Donor kidneys may be discarded due to 'weekend effect' at hospitals

Researchers have identified a 'weekend effect' contributing to the decline in donor kidney availability in the US. Organs procured on Fridays and Saturdays were more likely to be discarded than those during weekdays, with higher quality kidneys also being thrown away at a greater rate.

SourceElsevier·JournalKidney International·DateMay 12, 2016

Disrupted REM sleep can derail memory formation

A new study in mice shows that REM sleep is essential for consolidating both contextual and emotional memories. Inhibiting theta oscillations during REM sleep kept mice from forming these memories, while disrupting them outside of REM sleep had no effect.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 12, 2016

Zika virus: Optimized tests for reliable diagnosis

DZIF scientists have developed optimized assays and a control for quantifying viruses in blood and urine, improving the reliability of current tests. The new tests are more sensitive to low viral concentrations and comparable across different strains.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateMay 12, 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.

How Arctic spring kills birds in Africa

Scientists found that an early Arctic spring in Africa is killing red knots by disrupting their food supply. The birds' short beaks limit their access to shellfish, essential for survival.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalScience·DateMay 12, 2016

How light is detected affects the atom that emits it

Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis use a new instrument to detect light in a way that reveals the atom's evolution and potential control over entangled partners. This approach may enable quantum control and enhance fluorescence imaging.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2016

Women's preference for smaller competition may account for inequality

A University of Michigan study found that women prefer smaller competition sizes, which may contribute to pay gaps and the underrepresentation of women in certain fields. Women feel more comfortable in smaller groups, where communal behaviors are more normative.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMay 12, 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.

Why animals court their own sex

A recent study by Uppsala University researchers reveals that same-sex sexual behavior (SSB) is more common than thought and may have benefits in the opposite sex. SSB was found to increase reproductive performance in siblings of the opposite sex, suggesting a genetic mechanism driving its prevalence across various animal species.

SourceUppsala University·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateMay 12, 2016

Brain cells that aid appetite control identified

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a crucial role of NG2-glia cells in the median eminence in regulating appetite and body weight. The cells support and shelter leptin receptor neurons, enabling them to instruct the body when to stop eating, leading to potential new targeted anti-obesity approaches.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 12, 2016

Hedgehogs are indeed not so widespread in England any more

A recent 'HogWatch' survey conducted in England has provided new insights into the country's declining hedgehog population. The study suggests a moderate decline of up to 7.4% in areas frequented by hedgehogs, with possible constraints due to habitat fragmentation.

SourceSpringer·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·DateMay 12, 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.

Victims of their own success

Acropora corals have thrived by leveraging environmental challenges, such as tropical storms, to grow and form new colonies. However, their rapid growth is vulnerable to global warming, diseases, and coral bleaching, threatening their future in marine regions.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 12, 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.

Queen's scientists develop new treatment to prolong life of those with cystic fibrosis

Scientists at Queen's University Belfast have discovered a new molecule that can potentially prolong the life of individuals with cystic fibrosis by improving airway hydration and mucous clearance. The treatment targets the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), preventing chronic infections and inflammation that cause progressive lung damage.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 12, 2016

Study of glioma susceptibility in dogs may yield insights for humans

A genome-wide association study of 39 dog breeds with gliomas identified three candidate genes associated with the tumor's development. These genes - CAMKK2, P2RX7 and DENR - have also been linked to cancer in humans. Further research into these genes may provide insights for potential treatments of glioma in both species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 12, 2016

Eyewitnesses' memories darken skin color

Researchers at the University of British Columbia found that eyewitness memories are biased against black suspects in drive-by shootings, with incorrect recall rates as high as 80%. This study highlights the potential for wrongful convictions and emphasizes the need to consider eyewitness testimony's limitations in the justice system.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMay 12, 2016
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.

Action of nanoparticles on platelet activation and plasmatic coagulation

Research highlights the effects of nanoparticles on platelet activation and plasmatic coagulation, a complex process essential for human life. Studies demonstrate that nanoparticles can alter hemostasis in various diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, emphasizing the need for thorough testing and regulation.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Medicinal Chemistry·DateMay 12, 2016

Rare human disease found in dogs

A rare form of pulmonary hypertension has been discovered in dogs, with similar symptoms and potentially useful as a model for human PVOD. The study, published in Veterinary Pathology, could lead to new insights into the disease and its treatment options.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalVeterinary Pathology·DateMay 12, 2016

Loneliness in midlife

A study of 16,132 participants found that midlife loneliness is associated with low income, health restrictions, and limited social interaction. High income, professional status, and good job security are protective factors against loneliness in this age group.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateMay 12, 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.

Award enables research for more efficient accelerators

A researcher at Jefferson Lab has been awarded a $500K grant to develop new techniques for improving the efficiency of superconducting niobium cavities, which are used in particle accelerators. The goal is to reduce power consumption and increase the performance of these critical components.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateMay 12, 2016

Layout change can make licensing agreements more agreeable

Researchers found that simplified EULAs with separate pages and bullet points led to increased comprehension and a better attitude among users. This 'halo effect' enhances goodwill, transparency, and online safety for consumers concerned about privacy and security.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 12, 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.