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Science News Archive December 2017 - Page 16


Page 16 of 33

That feeling in your bones

Researchers analyzed millions of doctor visits to find no correlation between rainfall and painful joints or sore backs. Despite the lack of evidence, many people still believe that certain symptoms are forecasted by weather conditions.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 13, 2017

Major space mystery solved using data from student satellite

A University of Colorado Boulder student-built satellite has solved a 60-year-old mystery regarding the source of energetic and potentially damaging particles in Earth's radiation belts. The study found that these particles are created by cosmic rays entering the atmosphere, producing charged particles trapped by Earth's magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Small increases in complications when knee replacement done as outpatient procedure

A recent study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that outpatient total knee replacement surgery is associated with a higher risk of certain complications, including infections, repeat surgery, and blood clots. Patients undergoing outpatient TKA were more likely to experience joint-related complications and medical ...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateDec 13, 2017

Researchers use WWII code-breaking techniques to interpret brain data

A team of researchers has developed a cryptography-inspired technique to decode brain data, predicting arm movements in monkeys with unprecedented accuracy. This approach could lead to the creation of prosthetic limbs that can directly interpret user thoughts, revolutionizing quality-of-life for individuals with paralysis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 13, 2017

Research letter examines firefighters and skin cancer risk

A recent study examined the skin cancer history and habits of active Florida firefighters. The research found that 4.5% of participants had skin cancer, with a significantly higher frequency of melanoma (0.7%) compared to the general U.S. population. Non-work-related sun exposure may be contributing to this increased risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateDec 13, 2017

Structure of channelrhodopsin determined

The researchers discovered the structure of Channelrhodopsin 2, enabling a deeper understanding of its mechanism of action. This knowledge could lead to improved optogenetic tools for studying neurodegenerative diseases and developing gene therapies.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2017

Study finds links between deforestation and fisheries yields in the Amazon

A study led by Leandro Castello explores the link between deforestation and fisheries yields in the Amazon, finding that lakes with intact floodplain forests provide greater fish yields. The research has implications for managing and conserving the Amazon's fisheries and food security of local populations.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateDec 13, 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.

Voices and emotions: The forehead is the key

Researchers at the University of Geneva discovered the brain regions used to categorize emotions communicated vocally, highlighting the crucial role of the frontal lobe. The study found that the inferior frontal cortex is activated when categorizing and discriminating emotions from voices.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 13, 2017

BigH1 -- The key histone for male fertility

Researchers at IRB Barcelona identify BigH1 histone as crucial for male fertility and sex cell differentiation, promoting reproductive health. The study provides new insights into the role of histones in regulating gene expression and understanding infertility.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 13, 2017

Immunotherapy, gene editing advances extend to Type 1 Diabetes

Researchers at Seattle Children's are exploring therapies that reprogram T cells to calm down an overactive immune response, which may hold promise for curing type 1 diabetes. The goal is to develop a treatment that could protect new patients from the life-long requirement for insulin therapy.

SourceSeattle Children's·DateDec 13, 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.

Three papers help to crack the code of coenzyme Q biosynthesis

Scientists have made significant progress in understanding how Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is produced and functioned within cells. Research published in Cell Systems, Molecular Cell, and Cell Chemical Biology reveals new clues to CoQ biosynthesis and function.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalCell Systems·DateDec 13, 2017

Gene mutation causes low sensitivity to pain

A UCL-led research team has identified a rare genetic mutation that causes one Italian family to be unusually insensitive to pain. The study, published in Brain, found that the mutation affects the ZFHX2 gene and regulates other genes connected to pain signalling.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBrain·DateDec 13, 2017

New ultra-thin diamond membrane is a radiobiologist's best friend

Researchers developed a diamond-based detector that can measure the number of protons in a dose of radiation with almost perfect accuracy. The device allows for precise control of radiation doses for cancer treatment and research, enabling scientists to study cell responses to different doses of radiation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 13, 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.

North Sea water and recycled metal combined to help reduce global warming

Scientists at the University of York have developed a technology that can trap over 850 million tonnes of unwanted carbon dioxide in the atmosphere using North Sea water and recycled metal. This process uses low-energy processes and environmentally friendly tools, making it highly scalable and sustainable.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalChemSusChem·DateDec 13, 2017

Increased air pollution linked to bad teenage behavior

A new study by USC researchers links higher levels of air pollution to increased teenage delinquency, citing tiny, toxic particles as a major contributor. Exposure to PM2.5 has been shown to cause inflammation in the brain, damaging neural networks and influencing adolescent behavior.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Abnormal Child Psychology·DateDec 13, 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.

The oldest plesiosaur was a strong swimmer

The oldest plesiosaur, Rhaeticosaurus mertensi, was a strong swimmer with modified limbs and a short tail. It had a streamlined neck and powerful muscles to propel itself through the water.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 13, 2017

Giant storms cause palpitations in Saturn's atmospheric heartbeat

A study led by University of Leicester scientist Dr. Leigh Fletcher found that massive northern storms on Saturn can disrupt its equatorial atmospheric patterns, similar to those seen on Earth. The research reveals a link between distant events in a planet's climate system, known as teleconnection.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 13, 2017

Cellular self-digestion process triggers autoimmune disease

Researchers found that autophagy proteins are responsible for triggering autoimmune processes in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. Genetic switch-off of ATG5 protein reduced pathological T cell levels and inflammation in the central nervous system, suggesting its role in disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 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.

Checklist and coaching program in India markedly improved childbirth care but did not reduce death rate

A new study in India found that a checklist and coaching intervention significantly improved the quality of care during labor and delivery, with major gains in proper administration of oxytocin, initiation of breastfeeding, and skin-to-skin contact. However, despite these improvements, death rates remained unchanged.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 13, 2017

Alcohol taxes are too low, have not kept up with inflation

State alcohol excise taxes have declined by 30-32% since 1991, making them incredibly low. Raising these taxes could increase revenues while improving public health outcomes and reducing excessive consumption-related harms.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateDec 13, 2017

Racial minorities less likely to see a doctor for psoriasis

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania found that black, Asian, and other non-Hispanic minorities are about 40% less likely to see a dermatologist for psoriasis than whites. Whites averaged double the number of doctor's appointments for psoriasis overall compared to non-Hispanic racial minorities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateDec 13, 2017

How well can digital assistants answer questions on sex?

A recent study found that digital assistants on smartphones are less effective than laptop-based Google searches in providing quality sexual health advice. The researchers tested Siri and Google Assistant with 50 questions and compared their answers to laptop-based Google searches, finding that Google performed better in most cases.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 13, 2017

Owning a pet does not seem to influence signs of aging

A recent study published in The BMJ found no evidence that pet ownership is linked to improved physical or psychological functioning in older adults. In fact, researchers analyzed data from over 8,700 adults and found no association between pet ownership and biomarkers of healthy aging.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 13, 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.

Melting of East Antarctic Ice Sheet could cripple major US cities

The East Antarctic Ice Sheet's stability is being questioned after a marine geologic survey found that some regions have been sensitive to climate change for millions of years. This ice mass loss could lead to catastrophic sea level rise, affecting Florida and other major US cities.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2017

Improving cyber security in harsh environments

Researchers designed a new type of PUF hardware that can withstand extreme temperatures, microwaves, and high-dose radiation. This innovation provides an additional layer of security for sensitive information, including military personnel's lives.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 13, 2017

UVB radiation influences behavior of sticklebacks

Increased UVB radiation leads to a decrease in body size and an increase in risk-seeking behavior among three-spined sticklebacks. The fish, which cannot see UVB rays, exhibit more thorough risk checking and exploration behavior when faced with predators.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalBiology Letters·DateDec 13, 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.

'The mountains can drive us to madness'

Researchers at Eurac Research and Medical University of Innsbruck have identified a new medical entity: isolated high-altitude psychosis. The condition is characterized by psychotic episodes in extreme altitudes, often accompanied by hallucinations and disorientation.

SourceEurac Research·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateDec 13, 2017

Hydraulic fracturing negatively impacts infant health

A study published in Science Advances found that infants born within a half mile of a hydraulic fracturing site were 25% more likely to be born at low birth weights, increasing their risk of infant mortality and long-term health problems. The research also found significant impacts on cognitive development.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 13, 2017

Habitat counts when predators lurk

Researchers found individual prey had a roughly 40% likelihood of being consumed regardless of habitat complexity, but predators preferred certain prey in open environments. Habitat complexity dampened selection and equalized predation risk among active and sedentary prey.

SourceRice University·JournalEthology·DateDec 13, 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.

Scientists call for improved technologies to save imperiled California salmon

A team of scientists from NOAA Fisheries and California agencies recommend modernizing tracking technologies to improve Sacramento River winter-run Chinook management. The new approach aims to enhance water delivery system monitoring, genetic fingerprinting, and real-time tracking to promote fish recovery.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalSan Francisco Estuary and Watershed Science·DateDec 13, 2017

Humans can feel molecular differences between nearly identical surfaces

Researchers at UC San Diego tested human subjects' ability to distinguish between smooth silicon wafers with different topmost layers of molecules. Human subjects could correctly identify the differences 71% of the time, thanks to a phenomenon known as stick-slip friction.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateDec 13, 2017

Sepsis kills most in ICUs, with 55.7 percent mortality rate

A recent study found that sepsis kills an alarming 55.7% of ICU patients, with Brazilian ICUs facing low bed availability and inadequate care contributing to the high mortality rate. Vaccination and simple hospital infection-control measures can prevent community- and healthcare-acquired sepsis.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateDec 13, 2017

Robotics researchers track autonomous underground mining vehicles

Researchers have created a positioning system using cameras that can track the location of vehicles in underground tunnels with high accuracy. The technology increases efficiency and safety by allowing autonomous vehicles to operate without costly sensing or infrastructure modifications.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateDec 13, 2017

Plasmonic biosensors enable development of new easy-to-use health tests

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new plasmonic biosensor that detects diseased exosomes with high sensitivity using the naked eye. This breakthrough technology enables rapid recognition of inflammatory bowel diseases, cancer, and other conditions, allowing for timely treatment initiation.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 13, 2017
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.

Steroid study sheds light on long-term side effects of medicines

Researchers have made significant discoveries about the impact of glucocorticoid hormones on immune cells, shedding light on why some people develop resistance to commonly prescribed medicines. The study found that dynamic changes in DNA organisation occurred after just five minutes of drug application and persisted for up to five days.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 13, 2017

Unique sensory responses to the pediatric HIV medication Kaletra

A recent study from Monell Center and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found individual differences in the sensory response to Kaletra, a pediatric HIV medication. Genetic sources of taste variation were identified, suggesting potential solutions to improve medicine adherence in infants and young children.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalClinical Therapeutics·DateDec 13, 2017

Monkeys infected by mosquito bites further Zika virus research

Researchers infect rhesus macaques with Zika virus through mosquito bites, revealing similar infection patterns to human cases. The study helps understand Zika transmission routes and may aid in prevention and severity of disease.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 2017

How the kidneys produce concentrated urine

Researchers at Max Delbrück Center find GRHL2 protein crucial for concentrating urine and maintaining salt levels in the kidneys. Genetically modified mice lacking GRHL2 produce more diluted urine, highlighting its importance for regulating body fluids.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 13, 2017

Coffee physics

Princeton researchers studied the formation of layers in cafe lattes, discovering that double-diffusive convection is the primary mechanism behind this phenomenon. The study's findings have implications for industrial flows and mixing procedures, as well as understanding heat- and salinity-dependent flows in oceans.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 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.

Chimpanzee deaths in Uganda pinned on human cold virus

A human common cold virus known as rhinovirus C was found to be killing healthy chimps in Uganda's Kibale National Park, with five chimps dying from the outbreak. The virus is notably more severe than its relatives and affects young children most severely.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateDec 13, 2017

UTHealth study finds that male virgins can still acquire HPV

Researchers found male virgins can acquire HPV despite never having engaged in penetrative sexual intercourse. Vaccination before first sex is crucial to prevent infection, according to study authors.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateDec 13, 2017

Researcher pioneers solar sintering for crucial steel component

Researchers have successfully used solar sintering to process manganese ore fines, eliminating fossil fuel combustion and reducing CO2 emissions by up to 100%. This innovative method could lead to a commercial solar sintering industry, replacing carbon-intensive steel production methods in South Africa.

SourceSolarPACES·JournalAIP Advances·DateDec 13, 2017

Immune cells turn back time to achieve memory

Researchers found that memory T cells retain an 'epigenetic signature' from their effector state, allowing them to rapidly respond to future threats. This breakthrough has significant implications for vaccine development and could aid efforts to eliminate HIV from the body.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2017

Deadly heart rhythm halted by noninvasive radiation therapy

Researchers at WashU Medicine used noninvasive radiation therapy to treat five patients with ventricular tachycardia, a life-threatening heart rhythm. The treatment resulted in a significant reduction in arrhythmia events, with some patients experiencing no episodes over the course of a year.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 13, 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.

Malignant mitochondria as a target

A metallopeptide has been synthesized to target and disrupt mitochondrial function in breast cancer stem cells, inducing apoptosis. The peptide effectively delivers ROS and impairs mitochondrial metabolism.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 13, 2017

New active ingredients from the toolbox

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have successfully designed non-ribosomal peptide synthetases to produce completely new natural products. This breakthrough enables the creation of novel therapeutics and peptides with improved yields and modified structures, offering new avenues for biotechnology and drug development.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 13, 2017

Spanning disciplines in the search for life beyond Earth

Scientists from NASA and universities are investigating exoplanets to determine their habitability, focusing on astrophysics, Earth science, heliophysics, and planetary science. Researchers use tools like DSCOVR's high-resolution images to simulate habitable planets and study the interaction between stars and planets.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 13, 2017

Specially designed protein fights several species of bacteria

Researchers at Lund University developed a specially designed protein that targets and kills multiple bacterial species, including Gram-positive bacteria. The fusion protein works by removing Factor H from the surface of bacteria, activating the immune system to kill them.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 13, 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.