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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 459


Page 459 of 461

NASA selects mission to study Jupiter's Trojan asteroids

Lucy will be the first spacecraft to study six Trojan asteroids orbiting Jupiter, providing insights into the solar system's origins. The mission aims to decipher the history of the outer planets and understand the causes of differences between Trojans.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 4, 2017

Witnessing fear in others can physically change brain, scientists say

Researchers found that observing trauma can change brain information flow, making individuals more vulnerable to mental disorders like PTSD. The study suggests witnessing fear can physically redistribute brain signals, potentially enabling new communications and shedding light on the disorder's causes.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateJan 4, 2017

Study: Medicaid expansion boosts Michigan's economy and will more than pay for itself

A new study found that Michigan's Medicaid expansion has boosted the state's economy and budget, generating over $2.3 billion in personal spending power each year. The program is expected to continue having a self-paying effect for at least five years, with the state ending up with more money than it spends.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 4, 2017

Green chemistry: Au naturel catalyst mimics nature to break tenacious carbon-hydrogen bond

Researchers at Southern Methodist University have discovered a new catalyst that can efficiently break the tough molecular bond between carbon and hydrogen. This breakthrough could lead to a cleaner, easier, and cheaper way to derive products from petroleum, with copper-based catalysts showing great promise in oxidizing C-H bonds.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 4, 2017

Not feeling the music

Researchers found that individuals with specific musical anhedonia showed reduced connectivity between auditory processing and the Nucleus Accumbens, a key reward structure. In contrast, those with high music sensitivity demonstrated enhanced connectivity, highlighting different pathways to reward for music and other stimuli.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2017

App to help smokers quit is developed by health psychologists and game designers

A new smartphone app called Cigbreak Free has been developed to help smokers quit by incorporating behavioral change techniques into a game-like interface. The app uses 37 evidence-based methods to encourage users to progress through levels and gain rewards, making it easier for them to stick to their New Year's resolutions.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 4, 2017

The fire through the smoke: Working for transparency in climate projections

A group of climate scientists analyzed the scientific work and expert judgments behind the IPCC's 2°C warming scenario, revealing that updated findings support the original conclusions. The researchers aimed to increase transparency in climate projections, enabling policymakers to make informed decisions.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 4, 2017

Most veterans experience good quality of life after military service

A national sample of post-9/11 veterans found that most successfully navigate the transition to civilian life, with high employment rates and job satisfaction. However, PTSD was associated with impairments in work and family functioning, highlighting the need for interventions to mitigate its negative effects.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJan 4, 2017

Feature issue on nonlinear optics provides insight into field's latest ideas

The Journal of the Optical Society of America B published a special feature on nonlinear optics near the fundamental limit, covering second-order and third-order nonlinear interactions. Researchers studied molecular conjugation length for optimal performance in donor-acceptor molecules.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of the Optical Society of America B·DateJan 4, 2017

UNIST wins 4 2016 Spark Design Awards

UNIST's School of Design and Human Engineering has received four Spark Design Awards for its innovative designs, including the Babyking robotic baby crib and Plant Diary IoT plant monitor. The awards recognize the school's talent in creating a better world through design excellence.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJan 4, 2017

It's a girl! Tweaking the names of a pest fanworm group

Scientists compiled data on original Hydroides names and published a checklist paper revealing the genus is feminine, leading to re-examination of 107 species. The study provides insight into the origin of species names, including those based on descriptive characteristics or people/places.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJan 4, 2017

Preterm infants fare well in early language development

A study from Northwestern University found that preterm infants establish a strong foundation for linking language and meaning, similar to their full-term counterparts. This discovery challenges previous obstacles in language and cognitive development observed in preterm infants.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateJan 4, 2017

Living near major traffic linked to higher risk of dementia

A study of over 6.5 million Ontario residents found that those living within 50 meters of high-traffic roads had a seven percent higher likelihood of developing dementia compared to those further away. The risk increased with proximity, but not for Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.

SourcePublic Health Ontario·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 4, 2017

Study suggests route to improve artery repair

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified a key role for the SHP-1 enzyme in stent failure in people with diabetes. By suppressing smooth muscle cell growth, SHP-1 may lead to more effective surgical stents.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetologia·DateJan 4, 2017

Manufacturing platform makes intricate biocompatible micromachines

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a method to manufacture microscale-sized machines from biomaterials that can safely be implanted in the body. The technique uses hydrogels and stacks them in layers to create devices with three-dimensional, freely moving parts.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Robotics·DateJan 4, 2017

Turning your living room into a wireless charging station

Engineers at Duke University and the University of Washington propose a flat-screen wireless charging system using metamaterials. The technology can charge devices within a room, eliminating cord hassles and power shortages.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJan 4, 2017

Researchers get first look at new, extremely rare galaxy

Astronomers have discovered a rare Hoag-type galaxy with two circular rings, providing unique insights into galaxy formation and evolution. The galaxy's inner ring is older than its outer ring, suggesting different formation histories for the two components.

SourceNorth Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 4, 2017

'Complementary' feeding for infants -- ESPGHAN position paper offers guidance

The new position paper provides recommendations on the timing and content of introducing complementary foods, as well as methods of feeding and specific dietary practices. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring adequate iron intake from complementary foods for all infants, especially those on vegetarian diets.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition·DateJan 4, 2017

A view from the edge: Creating a culture of caring

A critical care medicine physician describes her near-death experience inspiring an organizational campaign to improve communication and empathy among health professionals. The Henry Ford Hospital has launched a curriculum aimed at fostering compassionate, coordinated care.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 4, 2017

Study finds potential instability in Atlantic Ocean water circulation system

A new study suggests that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may not be as stable as previously thought, with changes occurring abruptly in geologic terms. The research predicts a potential collapse of the AMOC system, which could have significant implications for regional and global climate change.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 4, 2017

Routes of migratory birds follow today's peaks in resources

Researchers tracked three migratory bird species and found they adjust their routes to match future changes in food availability. By 2080, climate change may make it challenging for birds to find sufficient resources, posing a threat to their survival.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 4, 2017

Medication adherence a problem in atrial fibrillation patients

Researchers found that atrial fibrillation patients are more likely to discontinue warfarin therapy if they've had a recent procedure. The study analyzed 734 patients and found that over half were off warfarin within a year of starting it, with procedures being the most common reason for discontinuation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJan 4, 2017

Scientists develop new antibiotic for gonorrhea

Scientists at the University of York have developed a new antibiotic for gonorrhoea by harnessing the therapeutic effects of carbon monoxide-releasing molecules. The treatment targets the bacteria's energy production, preventing it from respiring oxygen and ultimately leading to its death.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalMedChemComm·DateJan 4, 2017

Promising new drug stops spread of melanoma by 90 percent

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a chemical compound that can stop the spread of melanoma cells by up to 90 percent. The compound targets a gene's ability to produce RNA molecules and proteins in melanoma tumors, effectively shutting down the disease's progression.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateJan 4, 2017

Tamed malaria parasite vaccine passes early trial

A weakened form of the malaria parasite safely activated strong immune responses in healthy volunteers, whose antibodies completely protected mice from malaria infection. The GAP3KO vaccine candidate has shown promising results and will move forward to a phase 1b trial using controlled human malaria infection.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 4, 2017

What do Google search queries reveal about brand attitudes?

Researchers found that users who are actively shopping in a category are more likely to search for any brand, but as users move from recognition to purchase intent, they become increasingly more likely to search for the specific brand. Brand owners are also more likely to search for their brand, even when not actively shopping.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Interactive Marketing·DateJan 4, 2017

More frequent hurricanes not necessarily stronger on Atlantic coast

Research suggests that hurricanes approaching the US coast are more likely to intensify during less active Atlantic periods, weakening instead of strengthening. This relationship accounts for part of the weak correlation between Atlantic hurricane activity and major landfalls.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateJan 4, 2017

Review examines diversity in dermatology clinical trials

A review of dermatology clinical trials found that racial and ethnic groups are underrepresented among study participants, with most being white. The lack of diversity is attributed to inadequate reporting of ethnicity and race, which may lead to a more homogenous population. To address this issue, the review suggests prioritizing raci...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJan 4, 2017

Out in the cold: Why are the oldest people the most excluded?

People over 85 are more likely to experience social exclusion, with increased difficulty accessing healthcare and social opportunities. Researchers call for improved technology access and government support to help older adults maintain social connections and care.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalSocial Policy and Society·DateJan 4, 2017

Nano-chimneys can cool circuits

Researchers found that adding cone-like structures between graphene and nanotubes enhances heat dissipation by reducing the number of heptagons. This could lead to improved performance in next-generation nano-electronics.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateJan 4, 2017

Evolving deep brain stimulation patterns

Duke University researchers have developed a new approach to deep brain stimulation that reduces energy consumption by up to 75% without compromising treatment efficacy. The algorithm uses computational evolution to design tailored patterns for individual patients, leading to improved symptoms and reduced battery replacement procedures.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 4, 2017

Scripps Florida scientists expand toolbox to study cellular function

Researchers at Scripps Florida have developed a new protease tool to study protein structure and post-translational modifications, which can alter protein stability and function. The new tool helps shed light on these chemical changes and could lead to new tools for mass spectrometry.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2017

MSU lands $1 million USAID grant to fight Zika

Michigan State University has secured a $1 million USAID grant to build a mosquito factory in Yucatan, Mexico, to combat the Zika virus. The project aims to use Wolbachia bacteria to reduce mosquito populations and prevent disease transmission.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJan 4, 2017

Murky Amazon waters cloud fish vision

Researchers found that three Amazonian species have lost or disabled genes for detecting short wavelengths of light, allowing them to thrive in the murky environment. The study reveals a unique genetic adaptation that enables these fish to perceive their surroundings differently.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJan 4, 2017

Scientists tissue-engineer part of human stomach in laboratory

Researchers successfully grew functional human stomach and intestinal tissues using pluripotent stem cells, enabling the study of diseases such as gastric cancer. The discovery allows for the modeling of new treatments and understanding of human development and health.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJan 4, 2017

Fast radio burst tied to distant dwarf galaxy, and perhaps magnetar

A team of researchers has localized the source of a Fast Radio Burst (FRB) to an older dwarf galaxy over 3 billion light years away. The galaxy is believed to harbor a supermassive black hole and may be connected to other energetic events such as supernovae and gamma-ray bursts.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateJan 4, 2017

New technique uses immune cells to deliver anti-cancer drugs

Researchers at Penn State have developed a novel biodegradable nanoparticle-based system that utilizes immune cells to target and deliver cancer-fighting drugs directly to tumors. This innovative approach combines the body's natural immune response with targeted delivery, showing promise for effective treatment of various cancers.

SourcePenn State·JournalSmall·DateJan 4, 2017

Fewer see e-cigarettes as less harmful than cigarettes

A new study suggests that fewer people perceive e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to smoking tobacco, dropping from 50% in 2012 to 43% in 2014. The researchers found no association between awareness of e-cigarettes and attempts at quitting among current smokers.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 4, 2017