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Science News Archive April 2017 - Page 13


Page 13 of 37

Studies examine rheumatoid arthritis patients' prognosis

New studies examine rheumatoid arthritis patients' mortality, disease activity, and physical function over 20 years. Early treatment has been shown to have a significant impact on long-term outcomes, with patients experiencing relatively good results.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateApr 20, 2017

Mapping DROSHA's cleavage sites

Researchers developed fCLIP-seq to analyze DROSHA's impact on miRNA fragments, revealing hundreds of new cleavage sites and alternative processing patterns. The study uncovers additional end modifications important for miRNA biogenesis, shedding light on its regulation in diseases like cancer.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 20, 2017

NASA sees the end of ex-Tropical Cyclone 02W

NASA's Suomi NPP satellite observed the remnants of Tropical Cyclone 02W dissipating southeast of Taiwan due to strong vertical wind shear. The system was torn apart as it moved north-northeast through the Luzon Strait, resulting in its demise.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 20, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Engineering technique is damaging materials research reveals

Researchers at the University of Oxford have discovered that FIB can fundamentally alter a material's structure, affecting its entire sample. The team developed new X-ray techniques to assess this damage and will focus on developing strategies to mitigate FIB damage.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 2017

Gut bacteria give newborns infection protection, not just digestion, mouse study shows

A mouse study reveals that Clostridia bacteria provide key protection against infection, in addition to aiding digestion. Newborn mice lack these beneficial bacteria, making them more vulnerable to pathogens. The findings suggest that the introduction of protective bacteria may hold promise for preventing gut infections in human newborns.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Ancient enzyme protects lungs from common irritant produced by bugs and mold

Researchers at UCSF discovered a specialized enzyme that destroys chitin, a tough natural material found in the environment, which accumulates in the lungs and triggers inflammatory lung disease. Mice with this enzyme deficiency developed severe lung disease, but restoring its activity cleared up symptoms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2017

IUPUI scientists find risk of lead exposure comes from both ends of firearms

Research finds high levels of lead exposure at firing ranges, with risks similar between indoor and outdoor ranges. The study recommends reevaluating allowable lead levels, improving education on lead-exposure risks, and finding lead-free substitutes for bullets and primer.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateApr 20, 2017

AGU journal commentaries highlight importance of Earth and space science research

The AGU journal commentaries emphasize the critical role of Earth and space science research in addressing pressing issues like climate change, water scarcity, and asteroid threats. The collection highlights the need for evidence-based policymaking, science education, and research funding to support a thriving society.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalEarth and Space Science·DateApr 20, 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.

Finding order and structure in the atomic chaos where materials meet

Scientists have created a model to analyze irregular atomic structures at grain boundaries, where two materials meet. The Polyhedral Unit Model identifies patterns of atomic shapes and can help determine how these structures affect material properties.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateApr 20, 2017

Immune discovery points to therapies to improve stroke recovery

Researchers found that strokes damage immune cells, making patients more susceptible to life-threatening infections like pneumonia. Therapies targeting damaged immune cells or bypassing their dysfunction could help recover from stroke, the study suggests.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2017

Discovering the basics of 'active touch'

Scientists have identified nerve cells in the skin of genetically engineered mice that sense both touch and motion, enabling active perception of the environment. This discovery advances the search for better prosthetics with natural sensory feedback for people.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 20, 2017

Hubble observes first multiple images of explosive distance indicator

A team of astronomers used the Hubble Space Telescope to analyze four images of a gravitationally lensed Type Ia supernova, measuring the expansion of the Universe without theoretical assumptions. The discovery provides clues about the Universe's expansion rate and has implications for cosmology.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 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.

Rare supernova discovery ushers in new era for cosmology

Astronomers have captured images of a Type Ia supernova appearing in four different locations on the sky due to gravitational lensing. This rare event has opened up new possibilities for measuring the rate of the Universe's expansion with unprecedented accuracy and understanding the distribution of matter.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Using venomous proteins to make insect milkshakes

Nematodes, microscopic worms that control diseases in humans and kill insects, secrete deadly cocktails of proteins to infect hosts. Researchers developed a method to work with nematodes outside their host, identifying 472 proteins involved in parasitism.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 20, 2017

Why children struggle to cross busy streets safely

New research shows children's ability to cross roads without incident develops around age 14. Children under 12 often underestimate traffic gaps, leading to accidents, and lack fine motor skills to step into the street quickly, making it hard for them to gauge when it is safe to cross.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateApr 20, 2017

Giardiasis may be a disease of the ecology of the GI tract

Research published in Infection and Immunity found that Giardia infection changed the mouse microbiome, leading to more aerobic bacteria and less diversity of anaerobic species. The study suggests that Giardia may be an ecological disease that disrupts the gut's stable ecology.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateApr 20, 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.

Same but different

A study published in Science reveals how bacteria can exhibit different behaviors despite having the same genes. Researchers found that protein complexes play a crucial role in this phenomenon, and biased partitioning of these complexes can lead to the emergence of extreme phenotypes.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Diet drinks and possible association with stroke and dementia

Research found that drinking at least one artificially sweetened beverage a day increased the risk of developing ischemic stroke by three times and Alzheimer's disease dementia by 2.9 times compared to less frequent consumption. The study highlights the need for more research into this area.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 20, 2017

Sexist and anti-gay jokes: It's all about men feeling threatened

Research found that men with precarious manhood beliefs use sexist and anti-gay humor to distance themselves from traits they want to disconfirm. The study suggests that workplace settings where women occupy positions of authority may trigger masculinity threats for these men, leading to sexist joking.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateApr 20, 2017

Skip the soda, opt for the stairs to feel more energized

A new study from the University of Georgia found that 10 minutes of stair walking boosted participants' energy levels, even surpassing the effects of 50mg of caffeine. The research aimed to simulate office settings where workers spend hours sitting and don't have time for longer exercise sessions.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateApr 20, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Brains of one-handed people suggest new organization theory

Researchers found that brain regions for missing body parts are repurposed in congenital one-handers, suggesting a new understanding of brain organization based on function rather than body part. This discovery reveals remarkable brain plasticity and holds potential for developing prosthetic limbs.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 20, 2017

Infant mice lack microbes that help fight intestinal infection

A new study reveals that newborns are more prone to intestinal infections due to underdeveloped gut microbiomes. Colonization with healthy adult microbes significantly reduces disease in infected infant mice, highlighting a potential way to boost their immune system.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases celebrates 10th anniversary

The journal's 10th Anniversary Collection highlights the progress made in controlling or eliminating NTDs, with a focus on disease elimination. Despite mixed success stories, researchers remain optimistic about achieving breakthroughs for at least five NTDs within a few years.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 20, 2017

Tarantulas use their lateral eyes to calculate distance

Researchers found that tarantulas primarily rely on their anterior lateral eyes to measure distances and navigate. By covering these eyes, the spiders have difficulty determining distance and can become disoriented. The study highlights the crucial role of the lateral eyes in a spider's ability to return to its burrow.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 20, 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.

What else can fingers tell us?

Researchers at HSE discovered that men with a higher 2D:4D ratio tend to be better educated. The study analyzed data from the Russian RLMS survey and found positive correlations between male respondents' finger length ratios and levels of education.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateApr 20, 2017

Researchers produce detailed map of potential Mars rover landing site

Researchers have published a detailed geological history for Northeast Syrtis Major, a region on Mars known for its striking mineral diversity. The study maps the extent of key mineral deposits across the surface and places them within the region's larger geological context. This work could help inform NASA's decision on potential land...

SourceBrown University·JournalIcarus·DateApr 20, 2017

Study evaluates how well fellowship training prepares kidney specialists

A recent study examines how new kidney specialists feel their training has prepared them to care for patients, highlighting areas for improvement in nephrology fellowship structure and content. The findings suggest that fellows may be underprepared for home dialysis modalities and emphasize the need for more education in core nephrolog...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 20, 2017

How naked mole-rats defy lack of oxygen

Researchers discovered that naked mole rats can survive extreme oxygen deprivation due to their ability to metabolize fructose. This alternative energy source supplies vital organs with energy when glucose is scarce, allowing them to thrive in low-oxygen environments.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

New weapon in fight against antibiotic resistance discovered

Scientists have developed a new drug, PEG-2S, that combats two priority pathogens with limited treatment options. The drug specifically targets the NQR pump, preventing proliferation of harmful bacteria like Chlamydia trachomatis, and is highly targeted without toxic effects on normal cells.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology·DateApr 20, 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.

Second cancers deadlier in young patients

Children and adolescents have a higher risk of dying from second cancers compared to older adults. The study found that survival rates are significantly lower for second cancers in young patients, particularly those under age 40.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 20, 2017

The formation of gold deposits in South Africa

Researchers from Canada and GEOMAR discover fossil oil mobilized uranium, forming complex-structured gold and uranium ore. High-resolution imaging techniques reveal an intimate spatial relationship between oil products and metals.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalPrecambrian Research·DateApr 20, 2017

Scientists uncover details on the rise of a tick-borne disease on Long Island

Scientists at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health report elevated levels of Babesia microti, a pathogen responsible for babesiosis, in Suffolk County, New York. The new test can strengthen surveillance for tick-borne illnesses, which are underreported and growing rapidly.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalmSphere·DateApr 20, 2017

Severe gum disease strongly predicts higher mortality in cirrhosis

A prospective study in patients with cirrhosis found that severe periodontitis strongly predicted higher mortality, mainly due to complications of cirrhosis. The study also showed a strong association between gum disease and risk of death in liver patients.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateApr 20, 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.

Macrophages conduct electricity, help heart to beat

Researchers discovered that macrophages aggregate around cardiac cells to facilitate electrical conduction, helping the heart beat in rhythm. This finding suggests a new role for immune cells in electrophysiology and may lead to new therapeutics for heart disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2017

AATS issues new consensus statement for treatment of empyema

Empyema is a potentially deadly accumulation of pus around the lungs, with a high mortality rate. New AATS guidelines provide evidence-based clinical recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and management of empyema in adults and children.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateApr 20, 2017

Firms using new reporting method to 'greenwash' performance

A new study found that firms with weak financial and social performance use integrated reporting to conceal their true performance. The report is longer, less readable, and more optimistic than those from stronger performers. This 'greenwashing' tactic undermines the effectiveness of integrated reporting.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Accounting and Public Policy·DateApr 20, 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.

Mammoths suffered from diseases that are typical for people

Scientists have discovered that nearly half of the mammoths' bones show signs of serious pathologies, including 'articular mouse' disease and abnormal vertebrae. These findings support the hypothesis that geochemical stress led to the mass extinction of mammoths.

SourceNational Research Tomsk State University·JournalQuaternary International·DateApr 20, 2017

Post-biotics may help shield obese from diabetes

Researchers at McMaster University have identified post-biotics, by-products of bacteria, that lower blood glucose and allow insulin to work better. This discovery could lead to new therapies for obesity-related diabetes, as more than half of Canadians are overweight or obese.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 20, 2017

Can we see a singularity, the most extreme object in the universe?

A team of scientists has found a way to distinguish a naked singularity from a black hole using the precession frequency of a gyroscope orbiting around it. The frequency increases as matter approaches a rotating black hole, but decreases or becomes zero for a naked singularity.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalPhysical Review D·DateApr 20, 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.

Study: Accomplished female scientists often overlooked

A recent study found that qualified female scientists were disproportionately overlooked by organizing committees at neuroimmunology conferences in 2016. Despite having published high-impact papers recently, women were less likely to be invited as speakers compared to their male counterparts. The study highlights the need for more wome...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 20, 2017

Penn researchers show brain stimulation restores memory during lapses

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have shown that electrical stimulation delivered when memory is predicted to fail can improve memory function. The study found that stimulating the brain during periods of poor function significantly improves memory, likening it to restoring normal traffic flow.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 20, 2017

Bacteria used to fight antimicrobial contamination of soil and water

A new study at the University of Nevada, Reno has found a potential way to reduce triclosan's presence in the environment, which is linked to antibiotic resistance. The research discovered that a combination of metal-reducing bacteria and natural organic matter can degrade triclosan faster.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·DateApr 20, 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.

Worldwide lack of early referral of patients with alcoholic liver disease

A worldwide analysis of over 3,000 patients reveals that those with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) are nearly 12 times more likely to be referred at an advanced stage than early. Early liver disease was defined as liver disease without evidence of advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateApr 20, 2017

Coordination chemistry of anions through halogen-bonding interactions

Researchers studied halogen-bonding interactions in co-crystals with bromide ions, leading to honeycomb structures and variable geometry. The findings suggest potential gas storage applications and facilitate directional multidentate interactions.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateApr 20, 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 virtual reality help us prevent falls in the elderly and others?

Researchers used virtual reality to identify balance impairments and train people to improve their balance. The study found that virtual reality can reveal balance deficits that are not apparent during normal walking, providing an important roadmap for detecting balance impairments.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateApr 20, 2017

Is DAA therapy for hepatitis C associated with an increased risk of liver cancer?

Recent studies present contrasting evidence on DAA therapy's association with liver cancer. A study found a higher recurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients who received DAAs, while another found no difference in HCC occurrence or recurrence between DAA and interferon-based therapies.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateApr 20, 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.