Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive November 2016 - Page 15


Page 15 of 38

Engineering a more efficient system for harnessing carbon dioxide

Researchers at the Max-Planck-Institute developed a novel pathway for effective carbon fixation, using a new CO2-fixing enzyme nearly 20 times faster than nature's most prevalent enzyme. This breakthrough enables the efficient capture of CO2 and its conversion into valuable products.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2016

Genetically engineered T cells render HIV's harpoon powerless

Researchers developed genetically engineered T cells armed with a fusion inhibitor to disrupt HIV's entry process. The C34 peptide was shown to be potent and effective against diverse HIV strains, including those resistant to existing drugs.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 17, 2016

Uncombable hair gene discovered

Researchers found mutations in three genes involved in forming the hair shaft, which causes uncombable hair syndrome, a rare condition affecting around 100 documented cases worldwide. The discovery provides insights into mechanisms of healthy hair formation and secures clinical diagnosis with molecular genetic methods.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 17, 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.

Scientists develop new mouse model to aid Zika virus research

Researchers have developed a new mouse model that can be used to study the Zika virus and its effects on the body. The model, which employs mice with functioning immune systems, has been shown to develop symptoms of neurological disease after infection, providing valuable insights into potential treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 17, 2016

Improving veterans' overall health and academic success

A study proposes that peer-led services can connect student veterans to resources and healthcare services, increasing retention rates and ensuring academic success. Peer-led supportive services offer a sense of community, bridging the gap between military culture and university life.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateNov 17, 2016

Shared epigenetic changes underlie different types of autism

Research reveals that over 68% of individuals with different types of autism share a common set of epigenetic modifications in the brain. This finding suggests that a single global epigenetic pattern could underlie diverse manifestations of the psychiatric disease. Epigenetic drugs may hold potential as novel treatments for ASD.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateNov 17, 2016

Virologists unravel mystery of late C20th gibbon leukaemia outbreak

Researchers found GALV retrovirus was likely transmitted to gibbons from rodents by medical researchers working on human diseases, causing a serious outbreak in the 1960s and 1970s. No evidence of ongoing infection or threat found in current captive gibbon populations.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalMammal Review·DateNov 17, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists discover how bacteria induce 'NET' release

A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that flagellar motility of P. aeruginosa is the main factor required to induce neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). The researchers developed an assay to quantify the levels of P. aeruginosa flagellin and found that immotile strains failed to stimulate NET formation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 17, 2016

Malaria parasite evades rapid test detection in children

Researchers found that a gene deletion poses a threat to malaria eradication efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The study revealed that one in every 15 infected children has a false-negative result when using rapid diagnostic tests.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateNov 17, 2016

T cell channel could be targeted to treat head and neck cancers

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have discovered that defective ion channels in T cells may contribute to the inability of the immune system to fight off head and neck cancers. By targeting these channels, patients with these cancers could have better outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 17, 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.

Texas A&M to establish premier stable isotope capabilities

The new facility will enable researchers to analyze individual molecule isotopes as fingerprints of biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere processes. The stable isotope mass spectrometer systems will provide cutting-edge capabilities for studying ecology, environment and energy research.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateNov 17, 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.

Beyond the DNA -- comprehensive map of the human epigenome completed

Scientists have established comprehensive maps of the human epigenome, revealing how genes are active in specific cells. The maps, published by the International Human Epigenome Consortium, provide insights into cellular differentiation and potential new treatments for diseases.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateNov 17, 2016

Study finds reasons for accumulated stress levels more complicated than thought

A study found that African-American and Latina women have a higher accumulated stress level than Caucasian women, but less than half the difference can be explained by expected factors. The study's results suggest that more social determinants of health, such as employment and housing status, need to be studied.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateNov 17, 2016

E-cigarettes may harm teens' lung health

New research found an association between e-cigarette use and persistent cough, bronchitis, and congestion in teenagers. The study suggested that even non-smoking e-cigarette users may experience respiratory symptoms, highlighting the need for further study on the long-term effects of e-cigarettes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 17, 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.

Menopausal hormone therapy improves bone health

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism reveals that menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) improves both bone mass and structure, with benefits persisting for at least two years after treatment ends.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 17, 2016

3-D imaging technique maps migration of DNA-carrying material at the center of cells

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking 3D imaging technique that maps the reorganization of genetic material in cell nuclei, providing a new understanding of how chromosomes are compacted and genes are activated or silenced. This breakthrough uses X-ray microscopy to visualize the structure and movement of chromatin in real-time.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 17, 2016

Good news for kids recovering from complex pneumonia

A study published in Pediatrics found that oral antibiotics are as effective as intravenous therapy in managing residual disease in children with complex pneumonia. This approach avoids the risk of infection and medical complications associated with PICC lines, providing a safer care option for families.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 17, 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.

New class of drugs holds promise for combating antibiotic resistance

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have identified four new chemicals that disrupt bacterial proteins called efflux pumps, a major cause of antibiotic resistance. These molecules could drastically reduce the time needed to move from experimental phase to clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateNov 17, 2016

How the heart turns into bone

Researchers at UCLA discovered that cardiac fibroblasts, which give rise to scar tissue after injury, can also produce bone-like cells. By blocking an enzyme involved in bone mineralization, they prevented calcification in mice, offering a potential new approach for treating abnormal calcium deposits in the heart.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateNov 17, 2016
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.

The role of physical environment in the 'broken windows' theory

Researchers found that exposure to simple perceptual features in dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, and littered streets can make rule-breaking more likely. The study shows that visually disordered stimuli increase cheating by 35% and average magnitude of cheating by 87%.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateNov 17, 2016

Reducing unnecessary testing of UTIs improves patient care, saves resources

Researchers significantly reduced CAUTI rates through a multifaceted intervention emphasizing best practices for insertion, maintenance, and removal of indwelling catheters. As a result, the rate decreased by one-third from 3.0 per 1,000 catheter days in 2013 to 1.9 in 2014.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateNov 17, 2016

Scientists explore how nutrition may feed mental health

Research highlights the intersection of nutrition and mental health, with studies investigating various levels and perspectives. Nutrition's impact on inflammation and stress is a key area of focus.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateNov 17, 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.

Glow-in-the-dark dye could fuel liquid-based batteries

Researchers at University at Buffalo identify fluorescent dye BODIPY as ideal material for storing energy in rechargeable, liquid-based batteries. The dye's unique chemical properties facilitate electron transfer and storage, enabling batteries to operate efficiently and with longevity.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateNov 17, 2016

Snake black market poses risk to humans and wildlife

A new study reveals that the illegal snake trade in Australia poses a serious threat to human lives and the environment. The research found that 5 out of 28 alien species were likely to succeed in becoming established, while 10 out of 28 were venomous snakes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalConservation Letters·DateNov 17, 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.

Study: Climate change could outpace EPA Lake Champlain protections

New research suggests that Lake Champlain may be more susceptible to climate change-induced damage than previously thought. The study's findings indicate that the current pollution standards may not be enough to prevent worsening algae blooms and water quality problems.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateNov 17, 2016

Study brings undiagnosed adults living with autism out of the shadows

A new study explores the experiences of undiagnosed adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), revealing key themes such as managing self-doubt and finding a sense of belonging. The research aims to help healthcare professionals identify undiagnosed adults with ASD, reducing their risk of depression and anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalArchives of Psychiatric Nursing·DateNov 17, 2016

Can facial plastic surgeons correctly estimate age from a photograph?

Researchers found that three plastic surgeons can accurately estimate a person's age from a photograph, with an error margin of up to 10 months, addressing the lack of scientific tools in facial plastic surgery. The study has limitations, relying on subjectivity and specific plastic surgeons' intuitions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateNov 17, 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.

Does traffic-related air pollution increase asthma risk by stimulating immune mediated inflammation?

A study of 577 children living in Puerto Rico found that closer proximity to major roads was associated with higher levels of interleukin 31, a cytokine promoting allergic inflammation. This increase in IL-31 levels is linked to increased asthma risk and severity in genetically susceptible children.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPediatric Allergy and Immunology·DateNov 17, 2016

Who knew? Ammonia-rich bird poop cools the atmosphere

Researchers from Colorado State University found that seabird guano emissions influence Arctic cloud properties and climate cooling. The study revealed a link between ammonia-rich bird poop and the formation of atmospheric aerosol particles, which can reflect sunlight back to space.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 2016

Finally, a type of face that men recognize better than women

Researchers at Vanderbilt University found that men are better at identifying faces on toy Transformers than women. The study, which surveyed people's childhood play experiences with Barbie and Transformers, suggests that the type of face individuals encounter as children affects their adult facial recognition abilities.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalVision Research·DateNov 17, 2016

Crop yield gets big boost with modified genes in photosynthesis

Plant biologists have increased crop productivity by modifying genes involved in photoprotection, allowing for more efficient use of sunlight. The study shows a 14-20% increase in modified tobacco plants, which could be applied to other crops like rice.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 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.

Cameroon's cholera outbreaks vary by climate region

Researchers discovered that cholera follows distinct outbreak patterns in different climate subzones of Cameroon, with varying relationships between rainfall, temperature, and disease transmission. Locally targeted interventions are necessary to control the spread of the disease, according to the study's findings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 17, 2016

Getting to bottom of crater formation

A recent drilling expedition at Chicxulub crater revealed how it collapsed to form a complex crater structure, confirming one prominent theory of peak ring formation. The findings provide insights into deep subsurface processes and challenge an alternative hypothesis on the origin of peak rings.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2016

The CNIO takes part in the biggest European project for the study of the epigenome

The Structural Biology and Biocomputing Programme at CNIO has contributed to the BLUEPRINT project, a major European initiative studying the human epigenome. The project has generated a large volume of epigenomic data, which is now accessible for research, facilitating new ways to diagnose and treat diseases.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCell·DateNov 17, 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.

New 'smart metal' technology to keep bridge operational in next big quake

A new 'smart metal' technology, developed by the University of Nevada, Reno, is being used for the first time in a real-world application on a busy downtown Seattle highway. The innovative materials, including memory-retaining nickel/titanium rods and flexible concrete composites, allow bridges to bend and remain usable after strong ea...

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·DateNov 17, 2016

Plants that soak up sun more quickly could improve crop yields

Researchers have identified a way to manipulate photosynthesis in plants to increase light-harvesting ability and biomass production. The modified plants outperformed controls by 11-14% under fluctuating light conditions, with greater leaf area and plant height.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2016

Researchers identify pathway important for kidney function

Boston University researchers discovered a novel molecular pathway needed to regulate kidney podocytes, critical in maintaining normal kidney function. This finding may help identify a new drug target for chronic kidney diseases associated with podocyte loss.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateNov 17, 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.

The Lancet Respiratory Medicine: Donor lungs could be kept alive for substantially longer with new lung preservation technique

A new study found that a combination of cold preservation and ex-vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) can extend donor lung preservation time to over 12 hours without jeopardizing recipient outcomes. This technique has the potential to increase organ availability by reducing geographical limitations and enabling longer-distance transports.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateNov 17, 2016

Unraveling how a brain works, block by high-tech block

Case Western Reserve University researchers create sensor-enabled geometric blocks to assess cognitive skills, revealing hyperactivity and performance accuracy. The technology allows for customizable testing and training for individuals of any age, including those with developmental disabilities or brain trauma.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateNov 17, 2016