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Science News Archive May 2016 - Page 25


Page 25 of 38

Chemists find 'huge shortcut' for organic synthesis using C-H bonds

Researchers have developed a method to selectively functionalize unreactive carbon-hydrogen bonds in alkanes, a key step towards revolutionizing organic synthesis. The breakthrough enables the transformation of simple molecules into valuable chemicals with controlled site selectivity and chirality.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateMay 11, 2016

Australia-wide autism report calls for 'agile' response in classrooms

A national survey found that social and emotional wellbeing is crucial for the success of autistic children in mainstream schools. The report highlights the need for teachers to be flexible and agile to meet individual needs, with many children experiencing difficulties in school due to their autism.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateMay 11, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals fox squirrels' 'tell-tail' signs of frustration

Researchers tracked fox squirrels in foraging tasks with locked containers, observing tail flicks as frustration increased. The study suggests that frustration may be necessary and beneficial for problem solving, leading to persistence and new strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Comparative Psychology·DateMay 11, 2016

Treating sleep apnea could reduce emergencies in hospitalized patients

Researchers found that treating high-risk hospitalized patients for sleep apnea may decrease the frequency of emergency rescues from hospital personnel. Patients who were compliant with positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment had less rapid response events than those who were non-compliant.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 11, 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.

Revolutionary drug being explained

Researchers developed a line of mitochondria-targeted antioxidants, SkQ-ions, to protect cardiolipin molecules from oxidation. The study revealed that small doses of synthetic antioxidants could provide a distinct therapeutic effect despite the presence of large quantities of natural antioxidants.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalOxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity·DateMay 11, 2016

Tent camping could lead to flame retardant exposure

A study found that flame retardants used in tent manufacturing are released into the air within tents, potentially exposing campers to toxic compounds. The levels of these compounds can vary depending on the brand of tent, but may still pose a health risk to adults and children.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 11, 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.

No symptoms, but could there be cancer? Our chemosensor will detect it!

A new chemical sensor developed by Polish researchers can detect the presence of neopterin, a biomarker for certain cancers. The sensor uses molecular imprinting technology to capture molecules of neopterin from body fluids, with high accuracy and selectivity.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMay 11, 2016

Brazilian Zika virus strain causes birth defects in experimental models

Researchers have provided direct experimental proof that the Brazilian Zika virus strain can cause severe birth defects, including microcephaly and neurological diseases. The study used mouse models, human stem cells, and cerebral organoids to demonstrate the causal effect of the Brazilian virus on health.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateMay 11, 2016
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.

Large reductions in prison population can be made without endangering public safety

A recent study found that large reductions in the prison population do not compromise public safety, as demonstrated by California's Realignment Act. By shifting responsibility for certain groups of offenders to local jurisdictions, realignment reduced the total prison population by 27,527 inmates and saved $453 million.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·DateMay 11, 2016

You are what you eat: IU biologists map genetic pathways of nutrition-based species traits

Researchers at Indiana University have identified the genetic pathways that control physical traits in horned beetles based on nutritional conditions during development. The study reveals a complex relay system transmitting information about external circumstances to the cell nucleus, allowing organisms to produce different traits in r...

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2016

Paper gets 'smart' with drawn-on, stenciled sensor tags

The PaperID technology uses RFID tags to turn paper into a multi-gesture sensor, enabling interactive systems with gesture commands. Researchers developed various interaction methods to adapt RFID tags depending on the type of interaction desired.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateMay 11, 2016

Major clinical trials on the agenda of the European Stroke Organisation Conference

The European Stroke Organisation Conference highlighted major clinical trials on treating patients who suffer a stroke caused by bleeding into the brain. Studies found that platelet transfusion may be harmful and is not beneficial for patients taking aspirin. Additionally, tissue plasminogen activator (r-tPA) treatment was shown to red...

SourceEuropean Stroke Organisation (ESO)·DateMay 11, 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.

Ferrous chemistry in aqueous solution unravelled

Researchers have developed a method to analyze the electronic states of iron(II) in aqueous solution, revealing new insights into its interactions with surrounding solvent. This breakthrough could improve our understanding of electron interactions in catalytic and functional materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 11, 2016

Validation of an IHC screening tool for ROS1 gene rearrangements

Researchers evaluated an IHC screening tool for ROS1 gene rearrangements in a cohort of 170 patients. The results showed high sensitivity and specificity rates, making it a feasible option for first-line screening in a lung cancer setting.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMay 11, 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.

NIH study adapts Health Information National Trends Survey into ASL

A new NIH study explores how deaf adults, proficient in ASL, use the internet for health-related information. The HINTS-ASL program collects data on trends in health communication and perception among this population. The research aims to improve the dissemination of health information to the deaf community.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateMay 11, 2016

Brain imaging links Alzheimer's decline to tau protein

Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a new imaging agent that better predicts Alzheimer's disease progression than amyloid beta. The study found elevated tau levels are associated with cognitive decline and predict symptoms of dementia.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 11, 2016

Technique processes RFID signals rapidly for real-time interactivity

Researchers at Disney Research and Carnegie Mellon University have developed a framework called RapID that interprets RFID signals by weighing possibilities, reducing lag times from two seconds to less than 200 milliseconds. This enables the use of low-cost RFID tags in interactive objects, such as games, toys, and physical interfaces.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateMay 11, 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.

Genetic variants may put some soldiers at higher risk of PTSD

A massive analysis of DNA samples from over 13,000 U.S. soldiers has identified two statistically significant genetic variants associated with an increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The findings suggest a possible link between PTSD and autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 11, 2016

Fetal mice with Zika infection get microcephaly

Researchers in China report that fetal mice infected with the Asian Zika virus strain display characteristic features of microcephaly. The study found that neural progenitor cells were initially infected, followed by neurons, and that almost all cell death occurred in neurons, not progenitor cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 11, 2016

How urban living affects children's mental health

A new study from Duke University and King's College London found that urban children are at a higher risk of experiencing psychotic symptoms due to low social cohesion and high crime rates. The study, which followed 2,232 British twins, found that 7.4% of urban children had experienced at least one psychotic symptom by age 12 compared ...

SourceDuke University·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateMay 11, 2016

Gut model HuMiX works like the real thing

Researchers developed HuMiX, a human microbiome research tool that accurately models the complex interactions between human cells and bacteria. The model allows for the study of metabolic processes, including communication between the intestine and brain, and has potential applications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 11, 2016

An enzyme enigma discovered in the abyss

Researchers at University of Bristol and Newcastle University have discovered a natural Diels-Alder enzyme, AbyU, which catalyzes the powerful chemical reaction. The discovery could lead to the development of new antibiotics and other medical treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 11, 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.

New technology detects blood clots with simple in-home test

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati developed a simple in-home screening device to monitor blood-clotting levels, reducing frequent lab tests and costs. The paper-based test stick can quickly reveal changes in coagulation properties, allowing patients to detect potential issues early.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMay 11, 2016

Mouse models of Zika in pregnancy show how fetuses become infected

Researchers developed mouse models to study Zika virus infection during pregnancy, revealing fetal brain damage and potential for long-term neurological problems. The studies also showed the importance of understanding how the virus latches onto the placenta to prevent transmission.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateMay 11, 2016

Quality of life meets cure for prostate cancer treatment

Researchers developed a new approach to prostate cancer treatment using vessel-sparing radiation combined with MRI. The technique reduces side effects such as erectile dysfunction and bladder or rectal irritation while achieving high cure rates.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateMay 11, 2016

PET scans reveal that tau predicts Alzheimer's disease progression

Researchers found that tau tangles are a better indicator of dementia in late-stage Alzheimer's disease, correlating with cognitive deficits and cerebrospinal fluid tau levels. PET imaging also showed stronger associations between tau deposits and amyloid plaques than previously thought.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 11, 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.

Modern family planning in India

A US study found that a gender-equity program involving both husbands and wives reduced marital sexual violence while improving contraceptive practices in rural India. The CHARM program demonstrated the effectiveness of including men in family planning counseling.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 11, 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.

Researcher gives surgeons a guiding hand with robotics

A UA computer engineering researcher is developing a guided simulation model to train surgeons on minimally invasive robotic systems. The system uses visual and haptic force guidance to help correct depth perception mistakes, reducing the risk of serious damage during complex procedures.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateMay 11, 2016

Why do tomatoes smell 'grassy'?

Researchers from Kobe University identified enzymes that convert 3-hexenal into 2-hexenal, reducing the grassy odor in tomatoes. This breakthrough can be used to produce sweet tomatoes with less unpleasant fragrance.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 11, 2016

Targeted orphaned domain may lead to drug therapies

Researchers at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center have discovered that the intracellular domain of serotonin type 3A receptors can assemble into stable pentamers, suggesting a new approach to treating diseases such as epilepsy, anxiety, and Alzheimer's. This breakthrough may enable targeted therapies without undesired effects.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 11, 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.

Researchers unveil new, detailed images of DNA transcription

The study provides unprecedented molecular views of the critical early events in gene expression, positioning RNA polymerase to start transcription. The researchers captured human PICs in three functional states, revealing new structural elements and insights into DNA engagement, promoter melting, and transcription bubble stabilization.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNature·DateMay 11, 2016

Zika virus damages placenta, kills fetal mice

Researchers have developed mouse models of Zika infection in pregnancy, revealing that the virus causes significant damage to the placenta and leads to fetal demise or stunted growth. High levels of viral genetic material were found in placentas, highlighting the importance of understanding how Zika affects pregnant women.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell·DateMay 11, 2016

Fast casual restaurant entrées higher in calories than fast food

Research from the University of South Carolina found that fast casual restaurants have a higher average calorie count than fast food establishments. The study analyzed menus at 34 fast food and 28 fast casual restaurants, finding that fast casual entrées averaged 561 calories compared to 760 for fast food.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateMay 11, 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.

Twin study finds that gut microbiomes run in families

A genome-wide association analysis of over 1,000 UK twins found that some parts of the microbiome are inherited through genes. The study identified more than a dozen microbes with known links to health that are heritable.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 11, 2016

A plant cell recycles its resources in times of scarcity

Researchers at Université de Genève identified a protein Mac1 that plays a key role in recycling photosystem I components to recover iron. In response to nutrient deficiencies, the alga dismantles its photosystems and recycles some of their components.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 11, 2016
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.

This week from AGU: More concentrated storms, methane emissions, and 4 research spotlights

Researchers study concentrated storms causing extreme flooding in urban areas and high methane emissions from the Bakken oil field. Scientists also investigate black carbon in oceans and its impact on marine life. Additionally, a new study reveals that half of streamflow in the Upper Colorado River Basin originates as groundwater.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 11, 2016

US must step-up forest pest prevention, new study says

A new study highlights the urgent need for the US to step up forest pest prevention measures, as imported pests cause over $2 billion in damages annually. Strengthening prevention efforts could alleviate economic burdens on homeowners and municipalities while safeguarding US trees.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalEcological Applications·DateMay 10, 2016

Unsafe sex is fastest-growing risk for ill health in teens

A new report by The Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and Wellbeing reveals that unsafe sex has become the fastest-growing risk factor for ill health among young people aged 10-24 years. Guaranteeing access to free quality secondary education is identified as a single best investment to improve adolescent health.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 10, 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.