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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 194


Page 194 of 461

Targeted radiotherapy limits side effects of breast cancer treatment

A new trial has shown that targeted radiotherapy can limit the side effects of breast cancer treatment without compromising its effectiveness. The study found that women who received partial-breast radiotherapy reported fewer long-term changes to their breast appearance and feel, compared to those who underwent whole-breast radiotherapy.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 2, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Kids, cash, and snacks: What motivates a healthier food choice?

A new study reveals that brand awareness is not a key factor in purchasing snacks among children, but their experience with money plays a significant role. Higher prices for unhealthy snacks may motivate children who have handled money to choose healthier options.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAppetite·DateAug 1, 2017

Magnetized viruses attack harmful bacteria

Researchers at Rice University and the University of Science and Technology of China have developed a combination of antibacterial phages and magnetic nanoparticle clusters that infect and destroy bacteria protected by biofilms in water treatment systems. The innovative material, which uses bacteriophages combined with nanoparticles, c...

SourceRice University·DateAug 1, 2017

WSU researchers develop alternative to wasteful methane flaring

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a small reactor that can inexpensively break down methane into carbon monoxide and hydrogen, producing syngas for use in energy production. This innovation could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and wasted energy from oil drilling operations.

SourceWashington State University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateAug 1, 2017

Pennsylvania snowshoe hares differ from those in Yukon

Researchers found that Pennsylvania snowshoe hares have shorter, less-dense winter coats than their northern counterparts, producing lower coat temperatures. They also exhibit altered movement rates and resting-spot selection in response to variable winter temperatures. These adaptations may enable the hares to survive warming winters.

SourcePenn State·JournalCanadian Journal of Zoology·DateAug 1, 2017
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 theory of polymer length provides improved estimates of DNA and RNA size

Scientists in China have derived a formula to calculate the end-to-end distance of semiflexible polymers, including DNA and RNA, accounting for their stretchiness. This method enables researchers to estimate the flexibility of segments of DNA, crucial for its biological function.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 1, 2017

Effects of cognitive behavior therapy on parents of children with autism

A new study from York University reveals that parents who participate in cognitive therapy with their children with autism experience improvements in their own depression, emotion regulation, and mindful parenting. The research shows that co-therapy with parents alongside their child's therapist leads to positive outcomes for the family.

SourceYork University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateAug 1, 2017

Revealed: brain 'switch' tells body to burn fat after a meal

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a brain mechanism that controls the conversion of white fat into brown fat after eating, which could lead to new obesity treatments. The 'switch' is turned off during fasting and on during feeding, promoting weight gain when the switch remains active.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 1, 2017

Characteristics of metabolically unhealthy lean people

Researchers found that low leg fat mass is a crucial factor in lean individuals at increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases, similar to lipodystrophy phenotypes. The study suggests personalized prevention and treatment strategies for metabolically unhealthy lean people.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 1, 2017

Are artificial sweeteners counterproductive when dieting?

A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that artificial sweeteners paired with a low-carb diet significantly boost calorie intake. Flies offered these diets showed immediate increases in food consumption, which varied by the amount of sweetener used.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Aye group discovers avenue for precision cancer treatment

A study published in Cell Chemical Biology discovered a novel chemical procedure called T-REX that can selectively target cancer cells with specific mutations, leading to more favorable treatment outcomes. The researchers found that certain enzymes' redox-specific processes could be harnessed for targeted drug design.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateAug 1, 2017

Molecule's role in maintaining liver size and function revealed

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have identified a molecule called YAP that determines whether liver cells proliferate or are eliminated, depending on the presence or absence of injury. This balance is crucial for maintaining organ structure and function.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2017

No simple way of predicting breathing difficulties in pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs from external features

Research by University of Cambridge suggests that external features cannot accurately predict breathing difficulties in pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs. Breeders should focus on breeding for open nostrils and avoiding dogs with short muzzles, wide faces and thick necks to reduce the risk of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Vorinostat renders dormant HIV infection vulnerable to clearance

Researchers at UNC Health Care have developed an assay to detect antigen production and immune effectors capable of clearing infected cells. Vorinostat reverses latent HIV infection, making it vulnerable to clearance and potentially paving the way for a cure for the millions living with the virus.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalEBioMedicine·DateAug 1, 2017

ESA, NASA's SOHO reveals rapidly rotating solar core

Scientists have discovered evidence of a type of seismic wave in the Sun using data from NASA's SOHO. The waves, called g-modes, reveal that the solar core is rotating approximately once every week, nearly four times faster than its surface.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Zika infections unlikely to be passed by kissing, casual contact

Research by University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists reveals that Zika virus transmission is unlikely through casual contact like kissing or sharing utensils. The study found that the virus can survive in bodily fluids for extended periods but remains inactive in saliva, which may play a role in preventing infection.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Smart underwear proven to prevent back stress with just a tap

A team of Vanderbilt University engineers has developed smart underwear that can help prevent back pain by offloading stress on the low back muscles. The device features two fabric sections connected by straps and can be controlled via an app or a simple double tap, reducing muscle fatigue by up to 45%.

SourceVanderbilt University·DateAug 1, 2017

Brainiacs win big

The UCSB Brain Initiative, a cross-disciplinary program tackling the mind and brain, has received a significant boost from the Hearst Foundation. The award will support the initiative's efforts to transform our understanding of the human brain and provide new tools for neuroengineering.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateAug 1, 2017
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 describe structures, mechanisms that enable bacteria to resist antibiotics

Researchers at Iowa State University have identified two key mechanisms by which bacteria can resist antibiotics: efflux pumps that extrude drugs from cells, and reinforced cell walls that make it difficult for antibiotics to penetrate. These discoveries could lead to the development of new treatments that target these structures.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2017

$9 million grant will create neurotech research hub at Cornell

The Cornell Neurotechnology NeuroNex Hub will develop new optical imaging tools for noninvasive recording of neural activity in animals, overcoming barriers to deep imaging and whole nervous system visualization. The hub aims to enable biologists to explore complex neuroscience questions, such as animal consciousness.

SourceCornell University·DateAug 1, 2017

Technique enables printable and rewritable color images

Scientists at Rice University have created a method for printing and rewriting color images by utilizing structural colors, which are determined by the selective reflections of certain colors at specific angles. The technique uses a single, colorless ink and can generate high-resolution images with excellent durability.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 1, 2017

Boat noise disrupts fish cooperation

Research finds that boat noise affects cleaner fish behavior, leading to increased cheating and decreased cleaning efficiency. This study highlights the need to control man-made noise in protected habitats.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 1, 2017

Study shows adolescent depression increases risk for violence

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found a consistent pattern of increased risk of later violence among adolescents with depression. The research team identified modest increases in risk of violence in depression, with an odds ratio of two-fold in one sample.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Lifelike 3-D cinematic imaging promises numerous medical uses

Cinematic rendering technology produces photorealistic 3D images from CT and MRI data, enhancing medical education, patient-physician communication, and early disease detection. The technique has potential applications in surgical planning and improves physician-patient relationships.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

For white middle class, moderate drinking is linked to cognitive health in old age

A University of California San Diego study found that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with reduced mortality and greater chances of remaining cognitively healthy into older age. Among men and women aged 85+, individuals who consumed 'moderate to heavy' amounts of alcohol were twice as likely to be cognitively healthy than no...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 1, 2017

Investigators use light to kill microbial 'vampires'

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have developed a new light-based therapy to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as MRSA. The therapy uses a small molecule to activate an enzyme that produces reactive oxygen species, killing the bacteria when exposed to specific wavelengths of light.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

New NOAA Fisheries research reveals ecosystem cascades affecting salmon

New research by NOAA Fisheries shows that seabird predation, particularly common murres, affects salmon survival in the California Current. Changes in ocean conditions influence bird predation on salmon from San Francisco Bay, highlighting the complex relationships between species and their environment.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalJournal of Marine Systems·DateAug 1, 2017

Whole genome sequencing identifies cause of zoonotic epidemic

A team of scientists used whole genome sequencing to identify the cause of a respiratory disease that affected almost 77,000 native Icelandic horses in 2010. The researchers found that the gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus zooepidemicus was the culprit behind the outbreak.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Black holes are formed as a result of the most powerful explosions in the universe

A team of scientists from the Lomonosov Moscow State University has successfully detected polarization of intrinsic optical radiation of a gamma-ray burst, providing evidence of a powerful magnetic field around a rapidly rotating black hole. This achievement marks a major breakthrough in understanding these cosmic events.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2017

Algorithms that can sketch, recreate 3-D shapes

Researchers developed FlowRep to create design sketches of everyday objects, leveraging insights from Gestalt psychology. The algorithm can produce comparable sketches to professional designers, with potential implications for 3D printing and fabrication.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Magic helps unmask how the brain works

Researchers at the University of Delaware used a new mirror box illusion to study how the brain processes multiple sensory inputs. The study found that the brain uses biomechanical constraints from the body schema to resolve conflicts between senses, with vision typically ruling but also considering additional information.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 1, 2017

New images from under Alaska seafloor suggest high tsunami danger

Researchers have mapped a geologic structure off Alaska's seafloor that suggests high tsunami danger, with similar features found in Japan and potentially elsewhere in the Pacific. The discovery highlights the need for better understanding of subduction zones and their potential hazards.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 1, 2017

Help from the stomach for dry eyes

Researchers have developed a new contact lens coating made from a molecule found in pig stomach mucus, which can prevent tissue damage caused by dry eyes. The coating is long-term protective and requires no repeated applications, offering an alternative to existing hyaluronic acid products.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateAug 1, 2017

Resistance training may slow down the progression of multiple sclerosis

A study published in Multiple Sclerosis Journal shows that resistance training can protect the brain and delay disease progression in people with multiple sclerosis. The research, conducted over six months, found that those who engaged in resistance training had less brain shrinkage and even small brain areas began to grow.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMultiple Sclerosis Journal·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Decoding a treasure trove of data from the brain

A team of researchers will use new methods to analyze and interpret neural data, developing theoretical models to understand the underlying mechanisms. The project aims to improve understanding of brain function, even when only a small fraction of cells are directly observed.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 1, 2017

Missing signals lead to diabetic nerve injury

A new study from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine suggests that replenishing cytokine molecules could repair diabetic nerve damage. Diabetic mice showed low levels of specific cytokines that hindered activation of reparative genes, leading to poor circulation and muscle weakness.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalExperimental Neurology·DateAug 1, 2017

Cheap and simple detection of neurotoxic chemicals

Researchers from Kumamoto University developed a novel electrochemical sensing technique for detecting neurotoxic agents, including Nereistoxin, which showed high sensitivity and specificity. The method uses gold electrodes with adsorbed NRT layers, achieving detection limits of 1-25 micro-grams per milliliter of human serum.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 1, 2017