Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2017 - Page 351


Page 351 of 461

Researchers improve vbectors for delivering hFVIII gene therapy to treat Hemophilia A

A new study identifies optimal adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy delivery vector constructs to treat Hemophilia A. The researchers successfully improved the design of AAV vectors, demonstrating significant and differing effects on liver-specific expression of the human factor VIII transgene in mice.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateMar 31, 2017

'Whale breath' reveals bacteria threatening endangered killer whales

Researchers found bacteria and fungi in killer whales that cause disease in humans and land-based animals, including Salmonella and antibiotic-resistant strains. The study provides insights into whale health and reveals potential pathogens in their environment.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 31, 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.

Annals publishes annual updates in internal medicine

The journal highlights several notable research findings, including the benefits of quitting smoking abruptly, low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular prevention, and statins in rheumatoid arthritis. These updates aim to promote excellence in medicine and improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 30, 2017

Methane emissions from trees

Researchers from the University of Delaware found that tree trunks in upland forests emit methane, while soils and coarse woody debris act as methane sinks. The study used state-of-the-art technology to measure fluxes of methane and carbon dioxide, revealing a previously unaccounted source of this potent greenhouse gas.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEcosystems·DateMar 30, 2017

Baraniuk wins Defense Department's Vannevar Bush Fellowship

Compressive-sensing pioneer Richard Baraniuk has won a five-year, $3 million fellowship to explore new technologies using the field of signal processing. The grant will help broaden the applicability of compressive sensing and enable radically new sensing capabilities.

SourceRice University·DateMar 30, 2017

Industry and occupation affect flu vaccination coverage

A study found that healthcare workers have the highest rate of flu vaccination coverage, at 62.3%, while construction workers have the lowest rate, at 18.7%. Increasing vaccination efforts can reduce influenza spread in workplaces.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateMar 30, 2017

An epigenetic lesion could be responsible for acute T-cell leukemia

A study published in Leukemia reveals an epigenetic lesion that correlates with the activation of a powerful oncogene capable of malignizing lymphocytes, leading to acute T-cell leukemia. The research suggests that targeting this gene may offer new treatment options for patients with this aggressive type of cancer.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalLeukemia·DateMar 30, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Children with autism find understanding facial expressions difficult

Research at University of Bristol found that children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) have difficulty recognizing basic facial expressions. Despite this, the types of mistakes made by those with ASC were similar to those without ASC.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateMar 30, 2017

Proteins that can take the heat

Researchers studied 15 thioredoxin proteins, including extinct sequences, to understand how they unfold at different temperatures. They found that proteins with similar structure but greater ability to tolerate heat unfold more slowly, making them useful for industrial processes.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2017

Internet crystal ball can predict risk of heart disease, diabetes, study finds

A new online metabolic calculator developed by a University of Virginia doctor predicts patients' risk of developing heart disease and diabetes with higher accuracy than traditional methods. The tool takes into account multiple factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, and ethnicity, to provide a more comprehensive risk assessment.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 30, 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.

Previous exposure to flaviviruses increases effects of Zika

A study found that previous exposure to dengue, West Nile virus, or Zika can enhance the effects of Zika infection through antibody-dependent enhancement. The researchers used human antibodies from infected individuals in mice and observed reduced survival rates with low doses of these antibodies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 2017

Anti-cancer drug gets a boost when combined with antirheumatic

Scientists have discovered a synergistic effect between an anticancer and an antirheumatic drug, improving the former's ability to kill off cancer cells. The combination works by interacting with the cell's DNA, disrupting normal function and causing cell death.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 2017

When it comes to biological populations, expect the unexpected

A study in Limnology & Oceanography Letters reveals that biological organisms achieve high population extremes in Midwestern lakes, defying expectations. Researchers found frequent records being set across variables like fish populations, plant growth, and plankton numbers, indicating a need to reassess ecological limits.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateMar 30, 2017

Satellite galaxies at edge of Milky Way coexist with dark matter, says RIT study

A new RIT study confirms the coexistence of satellite galaxies and dark matter, shedding light on a long-standing debate. The research supports the current cosmological paradigm by showing that the vast polar structure of dwarf galaxies is an unstable feature that formed later in the galaxy's evolution.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 30, 2017

What happens in the living cell?

Researchers have designed a molecular 'paintbrush' technique to trigger, control, and monitor cellular processes. The technology, called Molecular Activity Painting, uses light-activated molecular building blocks to induce patterned contractions in living cells.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 30, 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.

Sculpting optical microstructures with slight changes in chemistry

Applied mathematicians at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed a framework to better understand and control the fabrication of optical microstructures. The researchers used this framework to grow sophisticated optical microcomponents, including resonators, waveguides, and beam splitters.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 2017

Researchers reveal atomic-level activity of green catalyst used in PVC production

A team of scientists has unlocked the secret of a gold-based catalyst that converts coal-derived acetylene to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), a precursor to polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The catalyst, which employs atomically dispersed gold on a solid support, reduces toxic mercury pollution and enables environmentally friendly PVC production.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 2017

The carbon footprint of crime has fallen, study finds

A study found that the carbon footprint of acquisitive and violent crime dropped from 7 million tonnes CO2e in 1995 to below 3 million tonnes CO2e by 2015. This represents a cumulative reduction of 54 million tonnes CO2e over this period, alongside a 30% decrease in crime.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe British Journal of Criminology·DateMar 30, 2017

'Fuzzy' fibers can take rockets' heat

The new composite fibers, developed in collaboration with NASA, have strong interlocking connections that make them less prone to cracking and seal the material to prevent oxygen from changing its chemical composition. The fibers are also resistant to high temperatures and can make entire turbo engines significantly lighter.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 30, 2017

The late evolutionary event that gave rise to modern life

A new study analyzed 41 genomes to determine how Cyanobacteria evolved oxygenic photosynthesis, finding that it likely occurred through lateral gene transfer in Oxyphotobacteria after divergence from the Melainabacteria group around 2.5-2.6 billion years ago

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 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.

Glacier photos illustrate climate change

A team of experts presents exceptional photographs documenting the loss of ice across Earth's surface. The images showcase the devastating effects of climate change on glaciers, a consequence of anthropogenic carbon emissions. GSA Today article highlights the urgent need for action to address this issue.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateMar 30, 2017

Rotating molecules create a brighter future

Researchers from the University of Cambridge and beyond develop a new type of material that uses rotatable molecules to emit light faster than ever before. This breakthrough could lead to more power-efficient, brighter, and longer-lasting TVs, smartphones, and room lights.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 2017
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.

Is it a boy or is it a girl? New method to ID baby sea turtles' sex

A new method to identify baby sea turtles' sex has been developed using an immunohistochemical approach, increasing the accuracy of sex determination for leatherback turtles. The technique, which uses a RNA-binding protein, achieved 100% success agreement with established methods in leatherbacks and 93% in loggerheads.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe Anatomical Record·DateMar 30, 2017

Method identified to boost detection of highly cancerous stem cells

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University developed a new process to improve the detection of cancer stem cells in brain tumors. The approach uses iron chelation to increase fluorescence levels, allowing for more accurate identification and removal of these cells. This breakthrough has potential to translate to clinical practice.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 30, 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.

Welfare reform that really works

Researchers found that introducing dynamic tax/sanctions and work subsidies can help people commit to long-run goals, leading to increased employment and welfare participation rates. In contrast, focusing on short-term payoffs results in reduced earnings and government expenditure.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateMar 30, 2017

What factors influence a patient's intent to get colorectal cancer screening?

A study from Penn State College of Medicine found that a patient's confidence in scheduling and conducting their part in colorectal screening methods is crucial in determining their intention to get screened. Self-efficacy emerged as the most important factor, reflecting knowledge, experience, or understanding of the testing options.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 30, 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.

The US burden of neurological disease is nearly $800 billion/year

The US burden of neurological disease is estimated to be nearly $800 billion/year, with costs projected to grow as the elderly population doubles between 2011 and 2050. The American Neurological Association commissioned a study detailing the annual cost of nine key neurological diseases and disorders.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 30, 2017

Balance test improves insight into illness in schizophrenia

A balance test that stimulates part of the brain with cold water has shown promising results in improving insight into illness in people with schizophrenia. The study found that cold water in one ear increased patients' awareness and insight into their condition, while cold water in the other ear worsened it.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateMar 30, 2017

Stem cells help explain varied genetics behind rare neurologic disease

Researchers grew stem cells from children with Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease to understand the genetic causes of common symptoms. The study identified defects in brain cell function linked to patient genetics, suggesting distinct subgroups requiring different clinical approaches.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 30, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Newly characterized protein has potential to save US farmers millions annually

Researchers have discovered a key protein involved in photorespiration, a process that wastes energy and fixed carbon in plants. The Bile Acid Sodium Symporter 6 (BASS6) protein could be manipulated to increase plant productivity by reducing losses from this process.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 30, 2017

Wispy remains of supernova explosion hide possible 'survivor'

Astronomers identify sun-like star associated with a Type Ia supernova, sparking investigation into its potential role in the white dwarf's demise. Further studies are needed to confirm if this star is indeed the culprit behind a white dwarf's fiery explosion.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 30, 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.

Aging: Cell coordination breakdown

Aging impairs immune performance by breaking down cell coordination and increasing gene expression variability. Single-cell sequencing reveals the impact on CD4+ T cells, with older tissues showing less coordinated responses.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 2017

Sleep-inducing herb: The key component identified

A study found that triethylene glycol (TEG), an active component of Ashwagandha, induces non-rapid eye movement sleep significantly and changes rapid eye movement sleep slightly. TEG's physiologically sound sleep is comparable to normal sleep, offering a potential natural solution for insomnia and related disorders.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 30, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New study sheds light on how mosquitoes wing it

A new Oxford University collaboration analyzed mosquito wing movements to understand flight dynamics. The study revealed two novel aerodynamic mechanisms, including trailing-edge vortices and rotational drag, that enable high-frequency flight.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateMar 30, 2017

Modern alchemy creates luminescent iron molecules

A team of scientists from Lund University has successfully created an iron-based molecule capable of emitting light. The breakthrough could lead to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials for solar cells, lighting, and displays.

SourceLund University·JournalNature·DateMar 30, 2017

Emissions from the edge of the forest

A new study reveals that tropical forest fragmentation leads to increased carbon emissions by a third, with edges releasing more CO2 due to unfavourable micro-climates. Researchers used satellite images and developed software to map forest fragments worldwide.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 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.

Gender-affirming restrooms recommended for schools

Research by Fordham University found that gender-neutral restrooms in schools have a significant impact on the overall school security, self-esteem, and grades of trans students. The study also highlighted demographic disparities by gender, race, and sexual orientation in school facilities.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateMar 30, 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.

Bad cold? If you're lonely, it may feel worse

A study by Rice University psychologists found that people who feel lonely report more severe cold symptoms than those with stronger social networks. The research suggests that loneliness can increase the severity of acute illnesses like the common cold.

SourceRice University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMar 30, 2017

The beginning of the end of order

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have proven the existence of Mermin-Wagner fluctuations, which grow logarithmically with system size and prevent crystal formation over long ranges. In contrast, small systems can exhibit crystal formation.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2017