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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 356


Page 356 of 461

Case Western Reserve University researchers turn urine into research tools

Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed a breakthrough technique to create durable stem cells directly from urine, providing an ethically sound and clinically relevant model for studying Down syndrome. The new method represents a significant improvement in induced pluripotent stem cell technology.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 28, 2017

Unraveling the functional diversity of longevity gene SIRT1

Researchers at TIFR have identified a specific region within SIRT1 that determines its interaction with other cellular regulators, enabling it to choose which factors to interact with. This discovery provides new insights into the longevity factor's functional diversity and may lead to targeted therapies against age-related diseases.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 28, 2017

Night lights, big data

Researchers developed an online tool analyzing 21 years of night-time lights data to correlate with socio-economic factors, finding strong relationships between GDP and electricity consumption. The study also found inverse correlations between light brightness and poverty, providing insights into human activities at a global scale.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tiny bacterium provides window into whole ecosystems

New research reveals Prochlorococcus' metabolism has evolved to trigger complex marine ecosystems and global changes. The study finds a cooperative system between Prochlorococcus and SAR11, with mutual recycling of waste products.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2017

When writing interferes with hearing

Researchers found that certain 'super-readers' with reorganized brain circuits perform better in tasks involving written words, while others with intact auditory-visual integration achieve more accurate results. This study highlights the crucial role of brain interactions in cochlear implant success.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

System better allots network bandwidth, for faster page loads

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL develop a new system called Flowtune that allocates network bandwidth more fairly in data centers, reducing lag and improving page load speeds. In tests, Flowtune completed the slowest 1% of data requests nine to 11 times as rapidly as existing systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 28, 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.

Prostate screening often occurs without discussion of benefits, risks

A new study reveals that only 30% of men in a national survey reported having a balanced discussion with their doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. This trend has become less likely since the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended against PSA testing in 2012.

SourceBrown University·JournalUrology·DateMar 28, 2017

'Flying syringes' could detect emerging infectious diseases

Researchers discovered blood-sucking flies can act as 'flying syringes' to detect emerging infectious diseases in wild animals. The method analyzes the origin of the blood and species of malaria parasites present, with potential implications for controlling global outbreaks.

SourceeLife·DateMar 28, 2017

New method heats up ultrasonic approach to treating tumors

Researchers designed a new focusing method for HIFU therapy, generating a subwavelength-scale focal region and extremely high ultrasound intensity. The lattice Boltzmann method modeling improves acoustic simulations and provides detailed information needed for estimating transducer performance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 28, 2017

How bacteria hunt other bacteria

Researchers studied how Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus tracks down prey using high-resolution video microscopy. The study found that the bacterial predator uses hydrodynamic flow fields generated by its own swimming movements and those of its prey to bring them in close proximity, increasing the chances of a successful attack.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 28, 2017

Insurance coverage for IVF increases chance of having baby

Women pursuing IVF are more likely to give birth if they have health insurance that covers the procedure, according to research published in The Journal of the American Medical Association. Without coverage, financial constraints often prohibit women from seeking additional treatments after an initial failure.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 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.

Can intergenerational cooperation defeat climate change?

Research highlights the potential of older adults as a resource for climate action, with individual steps such as reducing energy consumption and family leadership. The publication aims to engage this demographic in addressing climate change, leveraging their time, talent, and desire for purpose.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalPublic Policy & Aging Report·DateMar 28, 2017

Marathon running may cause short-term kidney injury

A recent Yale-led study found that marathon running can cause short-term kidney injury in runners, with 82% of participants showing signs of Stage 1 Acute Kidney Injury after the event. The researchers attribute this to sustained rises in core body temperature, dehydration, and decreased blood flow to the kidneys.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateMar 28, 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.

Chlamydia: How bacteria take over control

Researchers from the University of Würzburg discovered that Chlamydia trachomatis influences mitochondria to prevent programmed cell death, allowing the bacteria to replicate. The study found that miR-30c-5p microRNA is increased in infected cells, downregulating tumor suppressor protein p53 and promoting mitochondrial division

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Fellowship aims to protect threatened Australian night parrots

A PhD student is conducting research on the Australian night parrot, a cryptic and nocturnal species from arid Australia. Preliminary data suggests low breeding success rates, but the project aims to improve conservation efforts through studies of ecology and survival in arid landscapes.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateMar 28, 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.

Gold standards for nanoparticles

The study reveals how simple organic citrate ions can interact with gold atoms to yield stable nanoparticles. These clusters are useful as catalysts, drug delivery systems, anti-cancer agents, and components of solar cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 28, 2017

How a young-looking lunar volcano hides its true age

New research from Brown University suggests that lunar volcano Ina is actually around 3.5 billion years old, not within the past 100 million years as previously thought. The feature's youthful appearance was attributed to its porous surface, created by magmatic foam, which hides regolith buildup and skews crater counts.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeology·DateMar 28, 2017

Study: Dust helps regulate Sierra Nevada ecosystems

A new study found that dust provides important inputs of the plant-growth limiting nutrient phosphorus to western Sierra Nevada ecosystems. This discovery has implications for predicting forest response to changes in climate and land use.

SourceUniversity of California - Merced·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 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.

Elevated blood pressure not a high mortality risk for elderly with weak grip

A study of nearly 7,500 Americans age 65 or older found that elevated blood pressure is not related to high mortality risk among those with weak grip strength. The research suggests treating high blood pressure in older patients should not follow a one-size-fits-all approach.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 28, 2017

Physics can predict wealth inequality

Wealth distribution is closely tied to the evolutionary movement of all 'streams' of society, according to the Constructal Law. The law reveals that wealth and fuel use are increasing over time, making inequality a natural phenomenon.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 28, 2017

To be or not to be ... an entrepreneur

Research finds that incorporated business owners exhibit greater self-esteem, engage in illicit activities, and are more likely to come from high-earning families. In contrast, unincorporated business owners have manual skill requirements and lower salaries before entrepreneurship. Incorporated entrepreneurs earn significantly higher m...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateMar 28, 2017
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.

Meet your new electronic trauma intervention

A new study found that playing a highly visual-spatial computer game like Tetris can help prevent intrusive memories after a traumatic event. The intervention, which took just 20 minutes, reduced symptoms of acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder by 62% in patients waiting for emergency care.

SourceSpringer·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 28, 2017

Toward glow-in-the-dark tumors: New fluorescent probe could light up cancer

A new fluorescent probe developed by Michigan Technological University researchers has the potential to improve cancer surgery outcomes. The probe uses a near-infrared fluorescence that can penetrate deep tissues, reducing background noise and increasing precision for surgeons.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalAnalytica Chimica Acta·DateMar 28, 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.

Dunedin children's exposure to lead linked to lower IQ

A study found that New Zealand children exposed to high levels of lead in the 1970s and 1980s had lower IQs and social standing by age 38, with effects persisting for decades. The research suggests a significant impact of environmental pollutants on cognitive outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 2017

Dementia: The right to rehabilitation

A leading dementia expert emphasizes the importance of cognitive rehabilitation for people with dementia, sharing similarities with physical rehabilitation. Rehabilitation aims to enable individuals to participate meaningfully in everyday life and family/family activities.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 28, 2017
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.

It is easier for a DNA knot...

Researchers at SISSA used computer simulations to investigate knotted DNA passage through nanopores. The study found that DNA knots can pass through pores in two distinct ways, with the knot's size not affecting the passage time.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2017

Rarely studied gene USF3 plays role in predisposition to thyroid cancer

A new study by Cleveland Clinic researchers found that the rarely studied gene USF3 is associated with an increased risk of developing differentiated thyroid cancer. The team discovered a compound heterozygous deletion in USF3 linked to the disease, which may lead to a potential therapeutic strategy by removing glutamine.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 28, 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.

UQ opens new era in cancer research and drug development

The University of Queensland has opened a new imaging facility to study the effects of anti-cancer drugs on human and animal cancers, enabling the development of new treatments. The facility will run Australia's first comparative oncology research program, studying naturally occurring cancers in companion animals.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateMar 28, 2017

Mustard seeds without mustard flavor: New robust oilseed crop can resist global warming

Scientists have developed a new oilseed crop that is more resistant to heat, drought, and diseases than oilseed rape. The breakthrough technology keeps bitter defense compounds out of the seeds while maintaining them in the rest of the plant, enabling cultivation in areas previously unsuitable for oilseed crops.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 28, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Longer telomeres may shield mice from age-related human diseases

A recent study found that longer telomeres in mice may shield them from age-related human diseases. Researchers used mice with shortened telomeres to examine a genetic defect causing an age-associated congenital heart disease in humans. The findings suggest that decreasing telomere length contributes to the onset of age-related diseases.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 27, 2017

Unrestricted improvements in fishing technology threaten the future of seafood

A new study suggests that advances in fishing technology pose a significant threat to the global fishery, with potential long-term consequences. The research found that improvements in technology led to an increase in fish catches, but ultimately resulted in the depletion of fish populations and collapse of fisheries.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2017

Proteomics helps to understand the influence of genetic variations

Researchers used mass spectrometric methods to identify proteins influenced by SNPs relevant to type 2 diabetes and AMD. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms modulated by regulatory SNPs, contributing to personalized medicine.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 27, 2017

Evolving 'lovesick' organisms found survival in sex

A new theory suggests that sexual reproduction evolved as a way to resist disease-causing microbes and adapt to constantly changing environments. Researchers used computer simulations to demonstrate the benefits of sex in nematode worms co-evolving with a highly pathogenic bacterium, providing evidence for the Red Queen theory.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 27, 2017

Psychologists enlist machine learning to help diagnose depression

Researchers have used machine learning to analyze brain imaging data and identify patterns predictive of depression. The study found that DTI-derived fractional anisotropy maps can accurately classify depressed or vulnerable individuals versus healthy controls.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateMar 27, 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.

Nanocages dramatically facilitate structure formation of biomolecules

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that nanocages facilitate the fast folding and stability of G-quadruplexes, a type of biomolecule. This breakthrough has potential applications in understanding diseases, cancers, and allergies, as well as developing new drug treatments.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 27, 2017

Ant-plant symbioses: Adapting to changes in partner abundance

Researchers found that ant-plant symbioses break down at least 12 times over the past few million years, as plants adjust their host selection criteria based on altitude and potential tenants. Higher-altitude species tend to form domatia with larger access holes.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 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.

With health insurance at risk, community health centers face cut-backs

Repeal of key ACA provisions and failure to renew critical funding streams would result in significant funding losses for community health centers. Nearly 80% of centers estimate financial losses exceeding 20%, with many at risk of laying off staff, cutting services, or shutting down clinical sites.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·DateMar 27, 2017

Is personal adversity contributing to political polarization?

A recent study found that personal adversity, such as illness or relationship stress, can lead to increased polarization in political attitudes. The research team analyzed data from over 1,600 Americans and discovered a strong correlation between repeated experiences of adversity and extreme conservative attitudes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMar 27, 2017

Zika virus protein mapped to speed search for cure

A recent study by Indiana University researchers has mapped a key protein of the Zika virus, enabling the analysis of existing drugs and compounds that can disrupt its spread. The study's findings offer hope for finding effective treatments against the disease, which causes birth defects and neurological disorders in infants and adults.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2017

A new test to rapidly identify worldwide TB infections

A new rapid blood test to diagnose and quantify the severity of active TB cases has been developed by a team of researchers from Arizona State University. The NanoDisk-MS assay can detect minute blood levels of two proteins that are released only during active infections, providing faster results than current tests.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2017