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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 214


Page 214 of 461

Gamma-ray telescopes reveal a high-energy trap in our galaxy's center

A combined analysis of NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope and H.E.S.S. data suggests the galactic center contains a high-energy trap that concentrates cosmic rays, mostly protons. This results in a gamma-ray glow extending to the highest energies observed.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 18, 2017

Partnering cells turn off immune attack on pancreatic tumors

Researchers found that inhibiting the partnership between Tregs and dendritic cells might lead to effective immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer. Blocking this relationship may enable the immune system to target pancreatic tumor cells more effectively, potentially slowing tumor growth.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 18, 2017

Helping EU cities and regions cut carbon emissions

Researchers create interactive maps to help EU cities track and cut carbon emissions, revealing that wealthier individuals and fashion contribute to larger footprints. The study also finds regional differences in emissions linked to geography and food consumption.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 18, 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.

AARP, GSA focus on effects of negative attitudes on aging

The new AARP-sponsored supplement issue explores the effects of negative attitudes on aging, including memory performance and healthcare use. Research finds that these perceptions can be profound for individuals, communities, and populations.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateJul 18, 2017

The need to understand what works in social prescribing

A health service research expert warns that social prescribing requires a nuanced evidence base to address individualisation and responsiveness to patient needs. The UK policy push to integrate social prescribing into 'new models of care' highlights the need for more research on its delivery and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 18, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Zealandia should hold answers about tectonics, past climate

Expedition 371 investigates shift in Pacific Plate movement, which formed subduction zone and altered ocean circulation patterns. Cores collected at six Tasman Sea sites will help scientists understand timing and causes of these changes and their impact on Earth's climate.

SourceRice University·DateJul 18, 2017

$10.8 million awarded to build resilient coastal communities in Gulf of Mexico

The Gulf Research Program and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation awarded $10.8 million to support four projects enhancing community resilience in Louisiana and Alabama. The projects will increase understanding of community attributes influencing resilience and develop tools for strengthening community capacity.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateJul 18, 2017

Studying argon gas trapped in two-dimensional array of tiny 'cages'

Researchers at Brookhaven Lab have successfully trapped argon gas in a two-dimensional array of tiny 'cages', allowing for the detailed study of single atoms in confinement. This achievement could lead to the design of new materials for gas separation and nuclear waste remediation.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 17, 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.

CNIC scientists find the key to improved cancer immunotherapy

Researchers found that generating an optimal immune response against cancer requires the cooperation of two types of memory T cells: those that circulate in the blood and those that reside in tissues. This discovery has the potential to improve current cancer immunotherapy strategies, especially in preventing metastasis.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 17, 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.

Newly identified genetic marker may help detect high-risk flu patients

Researchers have identified a genetic variation that increases the risk of severe flu symptoms in patients. The variant, known as rs34481144, is linked to reduced killer T cell function and lower levels of the protective IFITM3 protein, suggesting a potential genetic marker for flu risk.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 17, 2017

Canada should continue with separate medical stream after cannabis is legalized for recreational use

A commentary in CMAJ argues that a two-streamed structure is necessary to keep patients safe and support research into the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. This structure would provide incentives for research, educational resources for healthcare practitioners, and reduce risk to patients.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 17, 2017

Tracking the mechanisms of artery formation

Researchers found that a receptor called Notch is crucial in the process of artery formation, directing sprouting cells into developing arteries. The study provides new insights into how vascular networks are established and may lead to identifying new therapeutic approaches to stimulate growth of new arteries after organ injury.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 17, 2017

In baby's dirty diapers, the clues to baby's brain development

Research from the UNC School of Medicine found an association between certain microbial communities and higher levels of cognitive development. Infants with high levels of Bacteroides had better cognitive scores, while those with diverse gut microbiomes performed worse.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 17, 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.

New Fanconi anemia-causing gene identified

Researchers have discovered a new gene involved in Fanconi anaemia, a rare genetic disease affecting bone marrow and causing congenital defects. The RFWD3 gene was found to be related to DNA repair and mutations were detected in a child with the disorder.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 17, 2017

Mutation speeds up sperm of zebra finches

Researchers found that a mutation causing an inversion on the Z chromosome increases sperm velocity and morphology, leading to higher fertilization rates and reproductive success. This study provides insight into the evolutionary mechanisms underlying infertility in zebra finches.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 17, 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.

Two new genes linked to Alzheimer's risk

Researchers at Cardiff University have discovered two new genes that increase a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The findings build on previous research identifying 24 susceptibility genes and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the disease.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 17, 2017
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.

Depression among young teens linked to cannabis use at 18

A Seattle-focused study found that young people with chronic depression are at a higher risk of developing a cannabis-use disorder. The study suggests that preventing or reducing chronic depression during early adolescence could lead to a reduced prevalence of cannabis use disorder.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAddiction·DateJul 17, 2017

Climate impacts of super-giant oilfields go up with age, Stanford scientists say

A new Stanford study reveals that as super-giant oilfields age, the energy required to operate them increases, leading to higher greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers developed a software tool to accurately calculate these emissions, finding that some oilfields see a doubling of emissions per barrel over a 25-year operating period.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 17, 2017

UNIST reveals the whole genome sequences of rare red bat

Researchers at UNIST have sequenced the whole genome of the Myotis rufoniger, a critically endangered bat species, to understand its genetic basis. The study provides valuable insights into the species' demographic history, genomic diversity, and evolutionary origins.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 17, 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.

'No solid evidence' for biopesticide-diarrhea link

A recent review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) incorrectly linked Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a highly effective biopesticide, to diarrhoea in humans. However, Dr Ben Raymond of the University of Exeter disputes these findings, citing recent evidence that supports Bt bacteria as "very safe for humans".

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFEMS Microbiology Ecology·DateJul 17, 2017

New assessment identifies global hotspots for water conflict

A new analysis identifies areas around the world most at-risk for hydro-political strife due to planned dams on rivers flowing through multiple nations. The Nile River in Africa is one of the more contentious areas, with Ethiopia's dam construction diverting water from countries downstream.

SourceOregon State University·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJul 17, 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.

Researchers at IRB Barcelona discover a crucial gene involved in the development of the placenta

The study reveals that TLK2 is vital for placenta and embryo viability in mice, with implications for human intellectual disabilities. The researchers found that mutations in the TLK2 gene may cause impaired placental function, leading to insufficient oxygen during development and potential neurological disorders.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateJul 17, 2017

UNC study advances the ability to expose latent HIV

Researchers at UNC have shown that interval dosing of Vorinostat can reverse latent HIV and improve detection, paving the way for further research into clearing infection. The study's findings suggest that pairing a latency reversing agent with an antiviral immune therapy may be necessary to achieve a cure.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 17, 2017

New study of brain circuits finds key links to symptoms of depression

Researchers at University of California San Diego have identified key brain pathways tied to distinct depressive behaviors. The study found that modifying specific neural connections in mice led to improved behavioral changes, providing insight into the interaction between multiple brain areas in depression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateJul 17, 2017

Quantifying effectiveness of treatment for irregular heartbeat

Researchers at Johns Hopkins developed a mathematical method to predict the effectiveness of catheter ablation for treating Afib. The study found that improving electrical communication in the heart immediately after the procedure can predict longer-term success rates.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 17, 2017

Diesel is now better than gas

A six-nation study published in Scientific Reports reveals that modern diesel cars generally emit less pollution than gasoline-powered cars. Diesel's cleaner reputation is due to its lower invisible pollution, which outweighs the more visible emissions from gasoline vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 17, 2017
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.

NASA listens in as electrons whistle while they work

Researchers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are analyzing the eerie sounds made by plasma waves in space, including whistler-mode waves and chorus waves. By understanding how these waves interact with particles, scientists can improve predictions of space weather and protect satellites and telecommunications signals.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 17, 2017

New study finds that lymph node removal isn't necessary for all melanoma patients

A new international study involving 3,500 patients found that removing all lymph nodes in the area closest to the melanoma may not provide a significant survival advantage. The study suggests that patients can be spared from complications and repeat hospitalizations if only their sentinel lymph node is removed.

SourceIntermountain Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 17, 2017

New device detects tumor cells in blood

Researchers have patented a mobile device that can detect cancer quickly, cheaply, effectively, and noninvasively. The device uses two systems: a flow system to align blood cells and an optical system to analyze and count tumor cells.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 17, 2017

Sharing the wealth

Support for economic redistribution is linked to compassion, self-interest and envy, according to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The researchers found that individuals who feel more compassionate are more likely to support redistribution, while those with high levels of envy tend to oppose it.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 17, 2017

New UMD research tracks global IT's shift from cost-cutting to revenue-boosting

A new study by University of Maryland researchers finds that increased global profits come from revenue-boosting IT strategies rather than cost-cutting. The findings suggest that firms can use IT to enhance competitive agility and sense unique customer preferences, leading to higher foreign revenues and profits.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateJul 17, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Space station project seeks to crystallize the means to counteract nerve poisons

A NASA-supported experiment on the International Space Station is growing large crystals of pure enzyme to develop improved antidotes for nerve poisons. By harnessing microgravity conditions, researchers hope to create better countermeasures that can quickly reactivate the enzyme and deliver them orally.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateJul 17, 2017

FOXI3 gene is involved in dental cusp formation

Researchers found that hairless dogs lack specific lingual cusps on their molars and premolars due to FOXI3 gene variation. The study suggests the gene may also play a role in human tooth morphology.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 17, 2017

Humans hardwired to lean to the right while kissing the world over

A new study reveals humans are hardwired to lean to the right when kissing, with men more likely to initiate and women receiving a mirrored response to avoid discomfort. The researchers propose that this bias may be linked to differences in hormone levels and neurotransmitters between brain hemispheres.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 17, 2017

New light on the secret life of badgers

Researchers used RFID technology to track badger movements, finding that individuals often visit multiple locations outside their social groups. This challenges the long-held assumption of territoriality and anti-social behavior in badgers.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateJul 17, 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 light helps diagnose common skin problem found in pregnant women

Researchers found that using a black light helps dermatologists determine the extent of melasma, a hyperpigmentation condition that causes brown and gray patches on the face. This can lead to early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of the condition worsening over time.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateJul 17, 2017

Late-breaking mutations may play an important role in autism

A recent study using three genetic sequencing technologies found that late-breaking mutations occurring after conception are linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These mutations, known as post-zygotic mutations, were discovered in a subset of cells and disproportionately affect the amygdala.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 17, 2017

Epigenetics between the generations

Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics found that epigenetic marks passed from mother to embryo are essential for embryogenesis. These marks, such as H3K27me3, regulate gene expression and can be inherited through generations.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJul 17, 2017