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Science News Archive April 2017 - Page 22


Page 22 of 37

Ethics study: Inconsistent state laws may complicate medical decision-making

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the confusing nature of state laws governing medical decision-making for incapacitated patients. The research found a complex and conflicting system that poses barriers to safeguarding patients' choices in their most vulnerable moments.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 12, 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.

Are wolves becoming domesticated again?

Researchers explore effects of human-provided foods on large predators, finding changes in social structures, movements, and behavior. Human-fed populations often form distinct genetic subgroups, potentially leading to future speciation events.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateApr 12, 2017

Lab on a chip designed to minimize preterm births

Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a lab on a chip that can predict preterm births with up to 90% accuracy. The device takes a finger-prick's worth of blood and measures biomarkers associated with preterm birth, providing an early warning system for doctors.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalElectrophoresis·DateApr 12, 2017

Both too much, too little weight tied to migraine

A meta-analysis of 288,981 participants found that obesity and being underweight are associated with a higher risk of migraine. Obese individuals were 27% more likely to have migraine than those of normal weight, while underweight individuals were 13% more likely.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 12, 2017

A simple sniff

Researchers developed a non-invasive nanoparticle delivery method that can target the brain via the nasal cavity, reaching it within minutes. The approach uses aerosol science and engineering principles to generate monodisperse nanoparticles that pass through the brain-blood barrier.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

Geography and culture may shape Latin American and Caribbean maize

A recent study published in PLOS ONE analyzed 194 native Latin American maize populations, revealing three distinct geographic groups of maize in Mexico and four groups in South America and the Caribbean. The findings suggest that genetic variation in maize populations may reflect human migration patterns and agricultural development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 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.

Exercise associated with improved heart attack survival

Research found that participants who exercised had a lower risk of dying from a heart attack, with a dose-response relationship between exercise level and mortality rate. Regular physical activity may help develop collateral blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateApr 12, 2017

Human cognitive map scales according to surroundings

A new study at the University of Texas at Austin reveals that humans have an adaptive coordinate system that rescales its internal map according to the environment's size. This flexibility allows humans to navigate diverse places with ease. The research provides valuable insights into the human memory and spatial navigation, shedding l...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 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.

Early school starts pit teens in a conflict between society, biology

Research by Mary Carskadon shows that teenagers need more sleep than they get due to conflicting societal expectations. Studies have found that as children age, their circadian rhythms shift later, making it harder for them to wake up early. This can lead to sleep disorders and decreased academic performance.

SourceBrown University·DateApr 12, 2017

Mapping food color regulations in the EU and the US

A new study reviews EU and US food colouring legislation to find ways to reduce regulatory barriers to international trade. Key findings include differing rules on colour additives, labelling requirements, and natural vs synthetic colours.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·DateApr 12, 2017

Surprisingly long lifetime of high adhesion property of plasma-treated PTFE

Researchers at Osaka University report heat-assisted plasma treatment can modify PTFE to improve its adhesive properties, making it suitable for medical procedures. The treatment recovers the surface layer, strengthening the adhesion between PTFE and rubber, allowing for stable and non-toxic lubrication.

SourceOsaka University·JournalRSC Advances·DateApr 12, 2017

Gut microbes contribute to age-associated inflammation: Mouse study

A mouse study reveals that gut microbes play a crucial role in age-associated inflammation and premature death. Imbalances in the gut microbiome lead to leaky intestines and trigger inflammation. Researchers hope to develop drugs or probiotics to restore gut barrier function and reduce age-related inflammation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 12, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Collisions generate gas in debris disks

Research finds atomic carbon in young star systems' debris disks, indicating minimal hydrogen presence. This suggests the gas is generated through collisions rather than being primordial.

SourceRIKEN·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 12, 2017

Retraining the brain to see after stroke

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center developed a personalized visual training program to reroute visual information around damaged areas of the brain. Patients regained large swaths of rudimentary sight, with some able to recover vision enough to drive again.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateApr 12, 2017

Tackling Ebola, from supportive care to vaccines in clinical development

Researchers analyzed a patient's progression through Ebola virus disease and recovery to identify distinct phases of physiological responses. The study also characterized serum from healthy volunteers receiving the rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine, identifying six markers that predict adverse reactions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 12, 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.

New, persistent opioid use common after surgery

A study published in JAMA Surgery found that approximately 6% of patients continued to use opioids more than three months after surgery. Risk factors for persistent opioid use included preoperative tobacco use, alcohol and substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and preoperative pain disorders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 12, 2017

Report reveals prevalence of sexual assault in nursing homes

A systematic review of 15 studies found that most vulnerable nursing home residents are at risk of becoming victims, while legal examinations are often infrequent due to administration complexities. The report also highlights the underreporting of sexual assaults in nursing homes, with only 1% of staff-to-resident incidents reported.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 12, 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.

Elephants' 'body awareness' adds to increasing evidence of their intelligence

Researchers tested Asian elephants' body awareness, finding they stepped off a mat to pass a stick to an experimenter 42 times on average, significantly more often than during a control test. This demonstrates their understanding of their bodies as obstacles, similar to young children's understanding at around two years old.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

Look to lactate to help predict ill cats' prognoses, Penn Vet study says

Researchers found cats with normal lactate levels had better survival rates than those with high lactate levels, with a five-day survival rate of 57% compared to 17%. The study suggests lactate can be a helpful measure in evaluating prognosis and making treatment decisions for critically ill cats.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateApr 12, 2017

More than a 'gut feeling' on cause of age-associated inflammation

Researchers at McMaster University found that imbalances in gut microbes lead to intestinal leakage, triggering inflammation, impaired immune function, and reduced lifespan. The study suggests targeting age-associated inflammation may improve immune health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 12, 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.

Tick tock, stay ahead of the aging clock!

Researchers at Babraham Institute and European Bioinformatics Institute identified a mouse epigenetic ageing clock, which shows age-related changes in DNA methylation. The accuracy of the mouse clock is surprisingly similar to humans, with lifestyle interventions affecting ticking rate.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 12, 2017

On-the-range detection technology could corral bovine TB

A new assay allows for direct measurement of pathogen biomarkers in bovine blood, enabling discrimination between exposure and infection. This breakthrough supports the global One Health strategy and has potential applications for diagnosing diseases in cattle, elephants, and other species.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalAnalytical Sciences·DateApr 12, 2017

SERIS develops world's first full-size IBC bifacial solar module

The Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) has developed the world's first full-size IBC bifacial solar module, capable of producing up to 400 Watts of electric power. The module features a double-glass structure, low-temperature interconnections, and high-efficiency ZEBRA solar cells.

SourceNational University of Singapore·DateApr 12, 2017

Study identifies effects of EU expansion on labor, research

A study by UC Merced Professor Alexander M. Petersen and Michelangelo Puliga found that the EU expansion facilitated the inter-European circulation of highly skilled workers in various fields, including medicine, technology, education, science, engineering, and business.

SourceUniversity of California - Merced·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017

Naked DNA in water tells if fish have arrived

Researchers have recorded spring fish migrations by analyzing DNA in water samples, providing a harmless and economical alternative to traditional methods. The study's findings suggest that environmental DNA can be used to monitor fish populations, estimate abundance, and track distribution.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 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.

Developing a microinsurance plan for California earthquakes

A new microinsurance plan for California earthquakes aims to provide financial support to residents who fall into a 'payout zone' after an earthquake. The plan, developed by Kate Stillwell, uses data on seismic shaking intensity to create a payout zone defined by census blocks and shaking intensities.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 12, 2017

Tool for checking complex computer architectures reveals flaws in emerging design

Researchers at Princeton University discovered over 100 errors in RISC-V instruction specification that could cause software running on chips to perform calculations using incorrect values. The findings highlight the importance of correcting these issues to ensure the reliability and safety of systems relying on RISC-V processors.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·DateApr 12, 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.

Study of sleep apps finds room for improvement

A study of 35 popular phone-based sleep apps found that most help users set sleep-related goals and track their sleep patterns, but few provide general information about sleep or its benefits. The analysis suggests that there is room for improvement in the development of these apps to educate users about the importance of sleep.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

Is there something up with stinky inflatable pool toys?

Researchers found that common odour compounds like cyclohexanone, isophorone and phenol are present in high concentrations in inflatable pool toys. These chemicals have potential health risks, including irritation and carcinogenic effects.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateApr 12, 2017

Surprising brain change appears to drive alcohol dependence

A new study by Scripps Research Institute reveals a key difference in the brains of alcohol-dependent and nondependent rats. Alcohol increases activity in the central amygdala through two distinct brain signaling pathways, which can be targeted for personalized treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateApr 12, 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.

Why treating animals may be important in fighting resurgent tropical disease

A University of Washington study suggests that monitoring and potentially treating monkeys that co-exist with humans in affected areas may be part of the global strategy for eradicating yaws, a tropical disease. The researchers found that infected monkeys were more common in regions experiencing recent upsurges in reported cases.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateApr 12, 2017

More than $16 billion spent on cosmetic plastic surgery

In 2016, Americans spent over $16 billion on cosmetic plastic surgery, with a national average cost of $3,719 for breast augmentation. The report also highlights the increasing popularity of minimally-invasive procedures like botulinum toxin type-A injections and hyaluronic acid fillers.

SourceAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons·DateApr 12, 2017

Physicians' misunderstanding of genetic test results may hamper mastectomy decisions

A recent survey found that half of women with breast cancer who undergo genetic testing do not have high-risk mutations. This highlights the need for genetic counselors to help patients and physicians understand genetic test results. Many physicians surveyed in the study stated they manage patients with uncertain significance in the sa...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 12, 2017

Predicting a patient's future firearm violence risk in the emergency department

Researchers developed a clinical risk index tool to gauge future firearm violence risk among urban youth, considering peer and partner violence, community exposure, and family influences. The SaFETy score demonstrates superior predictive power, helping emergency physicians identify high-risk individuals and tailor preventative services.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 12, 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.

UBC researchers connect common fats to a lazy lifestyle and diabetes

A new study published in PLOS One found a significant correlation between the consumption of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and sedentary behavior in pre-teen girls. The research also suggests a weak association between PUFA intake and diabetes risk among adult women in Europe. Researchers recommend further studies to confirm ...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2017

How some battery materials expand without cracking

Scientists found that certain electrode materials can accommodate large volume changes by transforming into a glassy phase, making them less prone to cracking. This discovery could lead to the development of longer-lived and higher-capacity batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 12, 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.

How polar bears find their prey

Researchers found that polar bears use crosswind movement to detect seals, with best conditions at night during winter. Climate change projections suggest increased winds may hinder this ability, impacting hunting success.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

4-D printing gets simpler and faster

A research team introduced a new approach to simplify and increase the potential of 4D printing, which allows high-resolution components to be designed, printed, and transformed into new permanent configurations using heat. This method saves time and materials by up to 90% and completely eliminates the mechanical programming process.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017

Gene-editing alternative corrects Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center successfully corrected Duchenne muscular dystrophy using the gene-editing enzyme CRISPR-Cpf1. The treatment restored production of the missing dystrophin protein, providing a promising new tool for treating this progressive disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017

Art of paper-cutting inspires self-charging paper device

A new paper-based device harnesses mechanical energy from body movements to charge small electronics, offering an untethered alternative to traditional batteries. The lightweight, rhombic design is capable of charging devices to 1 volt in just a few minutes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 12, 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.

Proof that magnesium could prevent fractures

Researchers found that men with lower magnesium levels had an increased risk of fractures, particularly hip fractures. Higher magnesium levels were associated with a reduced risk of fractures, with no cases reported among those with very high magnesium levels.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 12, 2017

NIH scientists advance understanding of herpesvirus infection

Researchers at NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases have identified a set of protein complexes that are recruited to viral genes to stimulate both initial infection and reactivation from latency. Environmental stresses also induce reactivation, providing new targets for the development of therapeutics.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 12, 2017