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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 95


Page 95 of 461

Study reshapes understanding of climate change's impact on early societies

A recent study has reshaped the understanding of climate change's impact on early societies, focusing on ancient Egypt. The research, published in Nature Communications, explores how large volcanic eruptions affected Nile river flow, reducing summer flood heights and causing social stress that could trigger unrest.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2017

Rivers carry plastic debris into the sea

Researchers found a strong correlation between waste disposal in catchment areas and plastic loads in rivers. Large river systems contribute significantly to ocean pollution due to higher concentrations of plastic particles per cubic meter of water.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 17, 2017

New teleneurology curriculum provides guidelines for care

A new curriculum has been developed to provide standardized training for healthcare providers in teleneurology. The curriculum covers key areas such as technology, licensure, and patient relationships, aiming to improve the quality of remote neurology care.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNeurology·DateOct 17, 2017

Youth football: How young athletes are exposed to high-magnitude head impacts

Researchers studied exposure to high-magnitude head impacts in young athletes during football games and practice drills, finding that players in 'Back' positions sustained more head impacts than others. High-magnitude head impacts occurred more often in open field areas during games than in line of scrimmage.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·DateOct 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.

'Find the Lady' in the quantum world

Researchers propose swapping atoms to demonstrate exotic properties. The process involves swapping two identical atoms without distinguishing them, leading to questions about individuality and connection in the quantum realm. This phenomenon has philosophical implications, as it challenges traditional notions of identity and connection.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 17, 2017

RUDN University chemists developed a promising drug synthesis method

Scientists from RUDN University have developed a new way to synthesize 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives, including the active ingredient of genetic disorder treatment drugs. The new method simplifies production while reducing costs and enabling high-yield synthesis without expensive reagents.

SourceRUDN University·JournalTetrahedron Letters·DateOct 17, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New examination of occupational licensing contradicts decades of research

A new study examining occupational licensing contradicts decades of research, finding that licensure may rigidify reward structures and enhance entry for historically disadvantaged groups. The study reveals that licenses do not limit competition or increase wages, but rather stagnate quality and widen wage inequality.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateOct 17, 2017

Preservation for the (digital) ages

Digital archivists from UT Austin collaborate with classicists to improve database preservation methods, enabling long-term accessibility of texts. The new approach preserves data and interactive applications separately, allowing for reuse in different contexts.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateOct 17, 2017

Scientists create most powerful micro-scale bio-solar cell yet

Researchers at Binghamton University developed a micro-scale biological solar cell that generates high power density and long operational capability, making it suitable for lab-on-a-chip applications in remote regions. The device harnesses microbial photosynthetic and respiratory activities to provide a clean and renewable power source.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateOct 17, 2017

Missing link between new topological phases of matter discovered

The study reveals that bismuth doping in PbSnSe films causes a ferroelectric phase transition, changing the allowable energy levels of electrons. This effect enables the development of new functionality, including lossless conduction of electricity.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2017

Predicting how healthy your heart will be years down the road

A team of researchers is working on a computer software that can deliver better therapies for patients with life-threatening heart failure. The computer model will take MRI or genetic data of a patient and build a multiscale simulation of their heart, leading to more personalized treatment plans.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateOct 17, 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.

Volcanic eruptions linked to social unrest in Ancient Egypt

Researchers discovered a possible reason for Ptolemy III's sudden return home: massive volcanic eruptions. These events cooled the planet's atmosphere, disrupting the Nile River's flow and leading to food shortages and heightened tensions. The study links eruptions to violent uprisings and other upheavals in ancient Egypt.

SourceFuture Earth·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2017

Study shows how water could have flowed on 'cold and icy' ancient Mars

Researchers found a potential bridge between Martian geology and atmospheric models, suggesting peak daily temperatures above freezing could cause melting at glacier edges. This meltwater could have carved the features observed on Mars today, supporting the formation of water-carved valleys and lakebeds.

SourceBrown University·JournalIcarus·DateOct 17, 2017

Pair of discoveries illuminate new paths to flu and anthrax treatments

Researchers have identified key pathways and mechanisms underlying viruses and infections, opening new avenues for treatment. The studies found that targeting the Hedgehog pathway may reduce severity of flu symptoms and could lead to effective treatments for anthrax infection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 17, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Yeast spotlights genetic variation's link to drug resistance

Researchers found that high genetic diversity can prime new mutations causing drug resistance in yeast cells, with varying degrees of impact. The study highlights the importance of understanding genetic diversity's role in evolving drug resistance, with potential implications for treating antimicrobial and anticancer diseases.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 17, 2017

How bees find their way home

Researchers identified 'speed neurons' and 'direction neurons' in the bee brain that work together to create a memory for navigation. This ability is crucial for bees, as they rely on it to return to their hive after foraging trips.

SourceLund University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 17, 2017

New research opens the door to 'functional cure' for HIV

Scientists from Scripps Research Institute have shown that a novel compound effectively suppresses HIV virus production in chronically infected cells and prevents viral rebound. The 'block-and-lock' approach blocks reactivation of the virus in cells and locks it into a durable state of latency.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 17, 2017

Culturally tailored obesity intervention a success for hispanic students

A UH-led research found that Hispanic middle school students who worked with high school health mentors, called compañeros, lost significantly more weight and kept it off longer. After six months, 80% of students with compañeros decreased or maintained their BMI, compared to 64% without.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateOct 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.

Amazonian hunters deplete wildlife but don't empty forests

A new study reveals that Amazonian communities with access to healthy fish stocks and large areas of intact forest do not empty their forests through sustainable subsistence hunting. However, large-bodied species and those forming large groups are depleted near communities, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 2017

A new compound targets energy generation, thereby killing metastatic cells

A new synthetic compound, E260, has been developed to target the energy generation system of cancer cells, inhibiting an enzyme that supports their survival and dissemination. This approach has shown promising results in treating mice with metastatic cancer, completely curing them with no toxic effects.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2017

New techniques boost performance of non-volatile memory systems

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed new software and hardware designs to improve the performance and reliability of non-volatile memory systems. The 'Proteus' system uses a flexible and fast approach to logging, reducing the need for additional code and preserving long-term memory reliability.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 17, 2017

'Wasabi receptor' for pain discovered in flatworms

A Northwestern University research team found a conserved mechanism for nociception in planarian flatworms, fruit flies, and humans. The discovery could lead to new strategies for treating acute pain in humans by designing analgesic drugs targeting the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) receptor.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 17, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

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.

Therapeutic form of arsenic is a potential treatment for deadly type of brain cancer

Researchers found that arsenic trioxide can be a powerful therapy for glioblastoma multiforme, extending patient survival by three to four times. The treatment targets specific genomic signatures of brain tumor cells, allowing for precision medicine and matching the right drug to the right patient.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateOct 17, 2017

MIPT scientists revisit optical constants of ultrathin gold films

Researchers at MIPT have conducted precise measurements of ultrathin gold films, which are key components of modern micro- and nanoscale optical and optoelectronic devices. The findings reveal that the properties of thin gold films are heavily dependent on their structure and average grain size.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 17, 2017

Navigational view of the brain thanks to powerful X-rays

A research team led by Eva Dyer has imaged brains at a mesoscale using the most powerful X-ray beams in the country, revealing capillary grids interlacing brain tissues. The technique could open new windows onto how brain signaling networks work and potentially lead to better understanding of neurological diseases.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournaleNeuro·DateOct 17, 2017

Fighting fires before they spark

Researchers found that mechanically thinning and prescribed burns can reduce fire-severity by up to 60% when used optimally. The study's findings have implications for forest management teams across the US, highlighting the importance of fire in ecosystem restoration.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 17, 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.

Reservoir explorers find extra HIV/SIV pond

Researchers identify regulatory T cells containing replication-competent virus in lymph nodes and gut, providing a strong rationale for targeting CTLA4. The discovery could help design immunotherapies to purge the viral reservoir and induce a stronger antiviral immune response.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalImmunity·DateOct 17, 2017

Three of the most deadly cancers get critical funding for research

Researchers at Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy (ACGT) have received $1.3 million in critical funding to study immunotherapy and virotherapy for three deadly forms of cancer: glioblastoma, sarcoma, and ovarian cancer. The grants will support clinical trials to test innovative treatments using gene therapy.

SourceAlliance for Cancer Gene Therapy·DateOct 17, 2017

Experts devise plan to slash unnecessary medical testing

Researchers developed a plan to eliminate unnecessary medical testing by providing educational efforts, auditing testing patterns, and harnessing electronic medical records. This initiative aims to reduce medical bills while improving patient outcomes, safety, and satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 17, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Resolving traffic jams in human ALS motor neurons

A team of researchers used stem cell technology to generate motor neurons from ALS patients with FUS mutations, revealing axonal transport defects. Genetic correction and pharmacological inhibition of HDAC6 restored axonal transport, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for ALS.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2017

Electroplating: The birth of a single nucleus caught in camera

Scientists at University of Bristol develop new approach to monitor early stages of electrodeposition with nanometer resolution. By detecting subtle changes in water structure, they can track the formation of a metallic nucleus in real time.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 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.

NASA finds Tropical Storm Lan strengthening

Tropical Storm Lan is intensifying as it moves through the Northwestern Pacific Ocean, fueled by extremely high oceanic heat content. NASA's Aqua satellite data shows storm clouds with cloud top temperatures reaching minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, capable of producing heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 17, 2017

High blood pressure boosts risk of common heart valve disorder

Researchers found a significant association between elevated systolic blood pressure and the development of mitral regurgitation, a condition where the heart valve leaks. The study suggests that controlling blood pressure may be crucial in preventing this common heart valve disorder.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 17, 2017

Fighting opioid addiction in primary care: new study shows it's possible

A new systematic review of evidence suggests that primary care physicians and their teams can provide effective addiction care using anti-opioid medication. The studies found that patients had the highest chance of successful treatment when working with a team of non-physicians, including nurse case managers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 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.

Tropical beetles face extinction threat

A recent study has found that tropical high-altitude beetles are at risk of extinction due to climate change. The research, conducted in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest, revealed that two plant-eating beetle groups - weevils and leaf beetles - are highly specialised to high altitudes and may disappear in a warmer world.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateOct 17, 2017

New assay may boost targeted treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

A new gene expression profiling assay has been developed to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, particularly diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The assay can differentiate between three major subtypes associated with different outcomes, including germinal center B-cell-like and activated B-cell-like subtypes.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 17, 2017

TGen develops processing procedures for 'single-cell' sequencing

The Translational Genomics Research Institute has developed novel processing methods for single-cell RNA sequencing, enabling researchers to identify genetic sources of diseases and tailor treatments. This breakthrough is crucial for understanding cancer and improving patient care.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateOct 17, 2017

New study: nearly half of US medical care comes from emergency rooms

A new study by University of Maryland School Medicine researchers found that nearly half of all US medical care is delivered by emergency departments. Emergency department visits increased by 44% over a 14-year period, with African-American patients and those without insurance using these services at a higher rate.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Health Services·DateOct 17, 2017

Corticosteroids aid healing -- if the timing is right

A new study from Linköping University finds that corticosteroids can improve tendon healing if administered at the correct timing. The research reveals that inflammation must subside before new tissue formation begins. When given after the early inflammatory phase, corticosteroids significantly enhance tendon strength in rats.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 17, 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.

Force field analysis provides clues to protein-ion interaction

The AMOEBA force field provides a detailed understanding of protein-ion interactions by incorporating quantum methods. The model distinguishes selective ion binding in calcium and magnesium ions, shedding light on their role in various biological processes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 17, 2017

New bowel cancer drug target discovered

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have identified a novel protein that exclusively targets Wnt signalling in tumour cells, reducing growth of colon cancer cells without harming healthy cells.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 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.

Need for speed makes genome editing efficient, if not better

Researchers created a computational model to improve the efficiency of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing by allowing off-target cuts, which may help on-target cutting be faster. The model suggests that proteins can correct mistakes and tolerate minor mutations, potentially leading to more precise gene editing.

SourceRice University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 17, 2017