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Science News Archive August 2017 - Page 5


Page 5 of 41

A new estimate of biodiversity on Earth

Researchers estimate 2 billion species, with bacteria dominating the 'Pie of Life'. This new estimate incorporates DNA sequence data and parasite-host associations to arrive at a higher number than previous estimates.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateAug 29, 2017

Researchers identify a common genetic variant linked to muscle pains in statin users

A common genetic variant in the LILRB5 gene is associated with an increased risk of muscle aches and statin intolerance. Researchers found that individuals carrying two copies of this variant have a higher risk of general statin intolerance and low-dose intolerance, highlighting the need for alternative treatment options.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 29, 2017

Thorough analysis reveals immune system dynamics after immunotherapy

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a technique to monitor the maturation process of the immune system in leukaemia patients after stem cell transplantation. This study identifies patterns linked to clinical complications and provides new knowledge on the regulation and dysregulation of the immune system.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 29, 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.

New osteoporosis treatment uses traditional Chinese herb to prevent bone loss

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new osteoporosis treatment using a compound derived from red sage, selectively blocking Cathepsin K enzyme activity in bone tissue. This approach may prevent negative side effects associated with current treatments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 29, 2017

UConn chemist synthesizes pure graphene

UConn chemistry professor Doug Adamson has patented a process to exfoliate pure graphene, a substance that is 100 times stronger than steel. His technology uses a thermodynamically driven approach to un-stack graphite into its constituent graphene sheets.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 29, 2017

New research strengthens link between mental health and retirement savings

Research from Medica Research Institute found that psychological distress significantly affects retirement savings, with up to a 62% lower probability of holding accounts. Married couples with psychological distress withdraw more from their accounts, while singles divert funds away from retirement savings.

SourceMedica Research Institute·JournalHealth Economics·DateAug 29, 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.

Potential Tropical Cyclone 10 soaks Mid-Atlantic

A Potential Tropical Cyclone 10 is expected to bring heavy rains and tropical-storm-force winds to the North Carolina coast, particularly in areas such as Wilmington. The system's track will take it along the Mid-Atlantic region before moving out to sea, with a high chance of it becoming extratropical by Aug. 30.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 29, 2017

Tears in tiny bone cells called osteocytes appear an important step to better bones

Researchers found that osteocytes, tiny bone cells with delicate membranes, experience membrane tears in response to mechanical loading. This tear triggers an increase in calcium levels, leading to bone remodeling and strengthening. The discovery sheds light on how bones adapt to gravity and physical activity.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateAug 29, 2017

When it comes to antennas, size matters

Researchers have developed a new approach to designing antennas that can construct devices with antennas up to 1,000 times smaller than current ones. This technology enables the creation of miniaturized antennas for cell phones and other wireless communication devices, opening up new possibilities in the biomedical field.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2017

Using DNA to predict schizophrenia and autism

Researchers discovered a single amino acid switch in the CX3CR1 receptor as a potential marker for predicting schizophrenia and autism. The variant affects microglia function and could lead to predictive diagnostics, offering new hope for asymptomatic patient screening.

SourceOsaka University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

High-tech electronics made from autumn leaves

A new method converts tree leaves into porous carbon materials for use in high-tech electronics. The resulting supercapacitors exhibit remarkable electrical properties and potential applications in computer technology and hybrid vehicles.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateAug 29, 2017

Expanding the reach of therapeutic antibodies

Researchers developed an efficient method to produce antibodies that can bind to two different target molecules simultaneously, enhancing cancer immunotherapy. The new approach uses a modified IgG antibody structure with only four key changes, allowing for more versatile formats and improved stability.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 29, 2017

Designing novel biologic agents to target colorectal cancer

Researchers present a comprehensive overview of novel approaches to combating metastatic colorectal cancer, highlighting the potential of immunotherapies and targeted biological agents. The article discusses recent progress and future prospects for these treatments, including combination therapies and overcoming drug resistance.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCancer Biotherapy and Radiopharmaceuticals·DateAug 29, 2017

Clamping down on causality by probing laser cavities

A collaboration between University of Central Florida and Yale has discovered novel optical behaviors in laser cavities, providing a unique window into fundamental physics. The research demonstrates the role of gain clamping in governing optical responses and reveals fundamental aspects of causality's limits.

SourceOptica·DateAug 29, 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.

Lively tunes boost sales in crowded stores

Researchers found that fast-paced songs stimulate spending, while ballads have little effect, as social density increases. In crowded stores, up-tempo music boosts average spending by 8% and motivates customers to buy more low-priced items.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateAug 29, 2017

Sense of smell is key factor in bird navigation, new study shows

Researchers found that birds use olfaction to navigate over long distances, outperforming previous theories about the role of Earth's magnetic field. The study tracked Scopoli's shearwaters and showed that anosmic birds followed a different orientation pattern during their return journeys.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 29, 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.

Obese people lack cells with satiety hormones

Researchers found that obese people have fewer enteroendocrine cells in the gut, reducing satiety hormones and altering appetite. Surgical weight-loss procedures can repair this disorder by restoring cell numbers and normalizing hormone release.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 29, 2017

Researchers validate UV light's use in improving semiconductors

A discovery by two scientists at NREL could aid the development of next-generation semiconductor devices. They used ultraviolet light to modify the interface between two dissimilar semiconductors, creating a flawless interface and enabling the integration of different classes of semiconductors.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 29, 2017

Cell culture system could offer cancer breakthrough

A new microfluidic cell culture device allows researchers to study the development of drug resistance in cancer cells in real-time. The system, developed by Princeton University and Johns Hopkins Medical Institute, provides a tool for preclinical cancer drug development and screening.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalConvergent Science Physical Oncology·DateAug 29, 2017

NREL, Swiss scientists power past solar efficiency records

Researchers at NREL and EPFL achieved record efficiencies of 32.8% and 35.9% for dual-junction and triple-junction solar cells, respectively. The high-efficiency cells could reduce the cost of solar energy by up to 45 cents per watt.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 29, 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.

Researchers reveal link between PCOS, type 2 diabetes

A nationwide study found that women with PCOS have a four times greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes and are diagnosed at an average age of 31, compared to those without PCOS.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 29, 2017

Scientists map genomic atlas of your inner fish gut

A team of researchers has discovered a network of genes and genetic regulatory elements in the lining of the intestines that remains remarkably consistent across 420 million years of evolution. This conserved genetic signature is linked to various human diseases, including inflammatory bowel diseases, diabetes, and obesity.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 29, 2017

Pinpointing the origins of autism

Scientists identified network inefficiencies in six-month-old infants who later developed autism, with these abnormalities linked to severity of symptoms at 24 months. This study brings us closer to understanding the pathology of autism and developing effective interventions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 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.

Extreme exposure

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers found that mothers exposed to very high levels of pesticides during pregnancy experienced increased risk of adverse outcomes, including a 5-9% increase in birth weight and preterm births. The study analyzed data from over 500,000 single births between 1997 and 2011.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2017

Love your beauty rest? You can thank these brain cells

A team of researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine has identified a type of neuron in the brains of mice that promotes sleep by turning off wake-promoting neurons. Lhx6-expressing cells play a central role in regulating both rapid eye movement and nonrapid eye movement sleep, with potential applications for treating various sleep disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2017

Lasers zap decontaminates from soil

A new method uses high-powered lasers to directly break down pollutants in contaminated soil, showing promise as a cheaper and more efficient decontamination technique. The process heats up the pollutant locally, fragmenting it into smaller, safer molecules.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateAug 29, 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.

No advantage of ambulance over hospital anti-clot therapy (SCAAR)

A new study analyzing data from the Swedish Coronary Angiography and Angioplasty Registry found no significant benefits of pre-hospital antiplatelet therapy in STEMI patients. The study suggests that pre-treatment may even pose a risk, particularly for patients with contraindications to antithrombotic therapy.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2017

Revisiting dietary fat guidelines? (PURE)

A large study found that high carbohydrate intake is linked to increased total mortality and non-cardiovascular mortality outcomes, while high fat intake is associated with lower risk. The study suggests that limiting total fat consumption may not improve health in populations.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 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.

Otters learn by copying each other

Research shows smooth-coated otters adopt a 'copy when young' strategy to solve puzzles, with young otters learning faster than parents. This social learning behavior may help improve reintroduction programs for endangered otter species.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 29, 2017

Bahamian songbirds disappeared during last glacial-interglacial transition

A study by University of California, Riverside researchers found that two Bahamian songbird species likely became extinct due to habitat loss caused by rising sea levels and a warmer climate. The birds' habitats were pine grasslands found in cooler regions, which were lost when the islands became more tropical.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2017

Reassessing the benefits of plant-based eating (PURE)

A large-scale study of 135,335 individuals across 18 countries found that a moderate intake of fruit, vegetables, and legumes can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The study's findings indicate that consuming an average of 3-4 servings per day is as beneficial as higher amounts in reducing total mortality.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 29, 2017

Bone-derived hormone reverses age-related memory loss in mice

A study led by Columbia University Medical Center researchers found that boosting blood levels of osteocalcin reverses age-related memory loss in mice. Osteocalcin binds to a receptor called Gpr158 in the brain's memory center, and restoring youthful levels of the hormone improves cognitive function.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 29, 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.

Rise of male individuals in stingless bees colonies leads to queen's death

Research reveals that stingless bee queens rearing high rates of diploid males are sacrificed in up to 20 days, threatening the colony's survival. The emergence of these male bees with both paternal and maternal genetic material leads to reduced reproductive chances for the colony.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 29, 2017

New treatment options for type 2 diabetes

Researchers have found that bacterial cell wall constituents can cause abnormal clotting, leading to inflammation in Type 2 diabetes. A new treatment option involves using LPS-binding protein (LBP) to reverse this process, offering a new approach to treating the disease.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 29, 2017

Don't be salty -- tiny tubes desalinate water one molecule at a time

Researchers from Northeastern University have discovered that tiny carbon nanotubes can efficiently remove salt from seawater, offering a potential solution to global water scarcity. The novel system outperforms existing methods, with the potential to increase accessible drinking water from 0.007 percent to a higher percentage.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2017

Cosmetic surgery may help patients quit smoking

A long-term follow-up study found that many patients who received instructions to stop smoking before cosmetic surgery were more likely to quit or reduce their cigarette use. The study suggests that targeted messaging with specific examples of the negative effects of smoking may be an effective way to encourage smokers to quit.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateAug 29, 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.

Autoimmune diseases increase cardiovascular and mortality risk

A six-year study of nearly 1 million people found that autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory bowel diseases increase cardiovascular risk and mortality. The study's results highlight the need for better tools to predict cardiovascular events in these populations.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalHeart·DateAug 29, 2017

Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma treatment

Researchers explored non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma treatment to improve natural dyeing of leather, reducing environmental impacts. The study successfully demonstrated the activation of functional groups on goat hide surfaces, leading to significant improvements in coloration with commercially available natural dyes.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Environmental Engineering·DateAug 29, 2017

Why does rubbing a balloon on your hair make it stick?

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have discovered that tiny holes and cracks in materials can control electric charge through friction. The findings could lead to better adhesion for agricultural pesticides, paints, and other applications, while also preventing damage from static electricity.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateAug 29, 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.

The eyes have it

Georgina Stooke-Vaughan is investigating the mechanical development of the eye in zebrafish using a novel fluid-based method. The study aims to understand how cells divide, move and position themselves to form the complex organ.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateAug 29, 2017

Japanese study questions benefit of treat-to-target statin therapy (EMPATHY)

A Japanese study questioned the benefit of treat-to-target intensive statin therapy in patients with diabetic retinopathy, finding no significant reduction in cardiovascular events. However, subanalysis showed that reaching an LDL cholesterol target of less than 70 mg/dL significantly reduced primary endpoint incidence.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 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.