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Science News Archive December 2017 - Page 31


Page 31 of 33

Traumatic stress and genetic risk of bipolar disorder found to increase suicide attempts

A recent study found that genetic susceptibility to bipolar disorder increases the risk for suicide attempt, but only among those who have experienced traumatic stress such as bullying, sexual abuse, and domestic violence. The research highlights the importance of environmental stressors in developing suicide attempts in individuals at...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2017

Researchers generate electricity from low-cost biomaterial

Irish researchers have discovered that glycine, the simplest amino acid, can generate enough electricity to power electrical devices when tapped or squeezed. This discovery has significant implications for the development of environmentally sustainable and low-cost bio-piezoelectric devices.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 4, 2017

When the nose doesn't know: Can loss of smell be repaired?

Tufts researchers have developed a method to regenerate adult stem cells in the nasal tissue, improving sense of smell in mice. The discovery uses Yamanaka factors and offers a more efficient alternative to existing induced pluripotent stem cell technology, with implications for treating various tissue degeneration associated with aging.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 4, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microscope using UV instead of visible light emerging as diagnostic tool

A new microscope technology using ultraviolet light enables fast and accurate imaging of fresh tissue samples, revolutionizing pathology and medical research. This approach eliminates the need for time-consuming slide preparation and preserving tissue, making it an essential tool for improving patient care and research nationwide.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 4, 2017

Preemies' dads more stressed than moms after NICU

A Northwestern University study reveals that fathers of premature babies exhibit higher stress levels after being discharged from the hospital compared to their mothers. The cortisol levels in fathers' saliva increased steadily over 14 days at home, while those of mothers remained stable.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing·DateDec 4, 2017

Blood flow altered in brains of preterm newborns vs. full-term infants

A study found that cerebral blood flow is altered in preterm newborns' brains, with key regions such as the insula and anterior cingulate cortex receiving decreased blood supply. This alteration may serve as an early warning sign of disturbed brain maturation.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateDec 4, 2017

Submarine volcanoes add to ocean soundscape

Scientists studying submarine volcanoes have discovered distinct sound patterns emanating from two underwater eruptions, Ahyi and Bogoslof. These sounds can be detected by seismometers and hydrophone arrays, providing valuable insights into the monitoring of these volcanic events.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 4, 2017

Exercise changes gut microbial composition independent of diet, team reports

Two studies in mice and human subjects reveal exercise can alter gut microbiota, promoting healthy intestinal cells and reducing inflammation. Exercise-induced changes persisted even after returning to a sedentary lifestyle, with lean participants showing more significant improvements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateDec 4, 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.

New system uses drones to monitor railroads

A new system uses drones to monitor railroad tracks, detecting good condition and possible incidents, allowing for automated data processing and reduction of human access to the track. This innovation improves safety for both users and workers, while also saving costs.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateDec 4, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Dec. 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a precision de-icing technology that uses high-resolution modeling to identify areas most vulnerable to drivers during hazardous weather conditions. The team also discovered a function of certain microbes that produces a new derivative of vitamin B12, which could enhance the e...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 4, 2017

Computer simulations reveal roots of drug resistance

Researchers used computer simulations to study the dynamics of efflux pumps in bacteria, which create drug resistance. Understanding how these pumps work could lead to finding ways to deactivate them, potentially making antibiotics effective again against life-threatening diseases.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 4, 2017

New test provides accurate measure of DNA damage from chemical compounds

A new biomarker test developed by researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center can predict, with up to 90 percent certainty, which chemical compounds can cause DNA damage that could lead to cancer. The test, called TGx-DDI, is based on genes that are actively transcribed in a cell and can identify stress due to DNA damage.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 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.

Intestinal worms may solve allergy puzzle

Researchers at the University of Bergen found that young people with intestinal worms have a 4 times higher risk of developing asthma and allergies than others. Interestingly, their parents are generally unaffected by the parasite.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·DateDec 4, 2017

A new spin to solving mystery of stellar companions

A study using the W. M. Keck Observatory measured the spin rates of three planetary-mass companions, finding rates similar to those of small free-floating brown dwarfs, suggesting two possibilities: the companions could be brown dwarfs or planets that formed with similar spins

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 4, 2017

Right-handed or left-handed?

A study published on Scientific Reports reveals that hand preference is already defined at the 18th week of gestation. Foetal kinematics analysis predicts manual dominance with an accuracy of 89-100% in boys and girls, which may lead to early recognition of pathologies like depression, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 4, 2017

Beetles' bright colors used for camouflage instead of warning off predators

A study by Yale-NUS College Postdoctoral Fellow Eunice Tan found that beetle color patterns are similar to host plants, suggesting camouflage rather than warning signals. The research challenged the prevailing theory among coleopterists and highlights the complexity of natural selection in leaf beetles.

SourceYale-NUS College·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateDec 4, 2017

$10.9 million grant supports research on traumatic stress, impulse control

Researchers at the University of Delaware and Delaware State University are studying the effects of traumatic stress in women and brain function to improve understanding of impulse control. The five-year grant will support non-invasive imaging techniques to explore brain function in living humans and laboratory animals.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateDec 4, 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.

Researcher closes in on pathways involved in ALS disease

A University of Missouri researcher has identified a potential target for therapeutics in treating Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), which may also help recover patients from strokes and other disorders. The study found that an enzyme called NAMPT plays a crucial role in ALS pathogenesis.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 4, 2017

Multicultural awareness boosts teaching competency, but is an uneven resource among future teachers

A study by NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development found that multicultural awareness is crucial for promoting positive outcomes in the classroom. Multicultural awareness varies significantly among future teachers based on their race or ethnicity and prior experience working with students of color. The resear...

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Teacher Education·DateDec 4, 2017

First step toward practical application of holographic memory with magnetic assist

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology have successfully recorded non-error data in magnetic holographic memory, reducing energy consumption and improving reconstruction performance. The breakthrough enables high-volume data storage with ultra-high density and speed, potentially surpassing Blu-ray discs.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 4, 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.

Does overlapping surgery increase complication risk after hip surgery?

A population-based study of patients with hip fracture surgery and elective total hip replacement found that overlapping surgery was associated with an increased risk for complications, especially in nonelective procedures. The duration of the surgical overlap appeared to increase the risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 4, 2017

Researchers 'dismantle' mindfulness intervention to see how each component works

A new study isolates two key practices in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and finds they have distinct effects on attentional control and emotional non-reactivity. The findings suggest that focusing on attention can improve attentional control, while open monitoring promotes emotional non-reactivity.

SourceBrown University·JournalBehaviour Research and Therapy·DateDec 4, 2017

Tanners who use sprays and lotions less prone to get tattoos and piercings than sunbathers

A Baylor University study reveals that frequent tanners are more likely to engage in risky appearance-related behaviors, including tattoos and piercings, compared to infrequent tanners. The research suggests that excessive tanning may be a sign of body image concerns, making it essential to address social and appearance pressures.

SourceBaylor University·JournalFamily and Consumer Sciences Research Journal·DateDec 4, 2017

Neurons have the right shape for deep learning

A study published in eLife reveals that certain mammalian neurons have shapes and electrical properties well-suited for deep learning. The algorithm simulates how these neurons collaborate to achieve deep learning, offering a more biologically realistic approach.

SourceCIFAR·DateDec 4, 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.

How the UK smoking ban increased wellbeing

A study by Lancaster University found that the UK public smoking ban had a statistically significant positive impact on the well-being of married individuals, especially married women with dependent children. The researchers also discovered increases in happiness among men who quit smoking and those who never smoked.

SourceLancaster University·JournalScottish Journal of Political Economy·DateDec 4, 2017

Virtual reality users must learn to use what they see

A study found that most VR users don't perceive a virtual world like the real one without training. When given visual feedback, success rates doubled, highlighting the importance of teaching users to use binocular cues and head movements. The results aim to improve VR uptake by encouraging interactive experiences.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 4, 2017

Swarm-based simulation strategy proves significantly shorter

Physicists develop a time-efficient method for simulating complex systems by creating an ensemble of multiple runs with randomized initial conditions. This approach, called a swarm, reduces overall processing time while maintaining accuracy.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateDec 4, 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.

Zika vaccine induces robust immune responses in three phase 1 trials

A new Zika vaccine candidate has produced strong immune responses in healthy adults, with nearly all recipients mounting protective antibody responses against the virus. The vaccine was safe and caused only mild reactions, offering a promising step towards an effective Zika vaccine.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 4, 2017

How do doctors make decisions when managing care for critically & terminally ill patients?

A recent study examined the intubation decision-making process of 73 hospital-based doctors from three academic medical centers. The researchers found that mental models of doctors who deviated from patient preferences focused on reversibility, inferred consent, and comfort levels. This variation highlights the need for well-structured...

SourceThe Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateDec 4, 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.

New nanowires are just a few atoms thick

Researchers at MIT, Cornell, and King Abdullah University developed a technique to create long, thin MoS2 channels in WSe2. The discovery could lead to more efficient solar cells and the assembly of atom-scale electronic components.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 4, 2017

Medium-sized carnivores most at risk from environmental change

New research finds that medium-sized carnivores spend the most time looking for food, making them more vulnerable to environmental changes. The study reveals a mathematical model predicting vulnerability based on body size and prey availability, highlighting the impact of habitat loss and climate change on predators.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 4, 2017

Subtle cues can dictate the fate of stem cells

Researchers discovered that inhibiting two forms of GSK3 can promote stem cell self-renewal or trigger differentiation into neural cells. The findings have implications for developing targeted therapies for diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's, and could lead to the production of human stem cells with specific properties.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 4, 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.

Worm genomes reveal a link between ourselves and our distant relatives

Researchers decoded two worm genomes and found genetic similarities with vertebrates, including humans. They share genes involved in multicellularity and head development with deuterostomes, despite being distantly related. This discovery highlights the dynamic nature of animal genome evolution and our connection to ancient ancestors.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 4, 2017

Researchers use nanoparticles to target, kill endometrial cancer

A new treatment combines traditional chemotherapy with a relatively new cancer drug that targets chemo-resistant tumor cells, loaded into tiny nanoparticles. The treatment shows promise for improving survival rates for endometrial cancer patients and could be used to treat other cancers as well.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 4, 2017

New study finds artwork is worth 35 percent less when created by 'tortured' artists

A new study found that artwork created by artists experiencing personal unhappiness, particularly during bereavement, can experience a significant decrease in value. Paintings created in the year following a friend or relative's death saw a 35% drop in value compared to other works.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateDec 4, 2017

PET identifies which prostate cancer patients can benefit from salvage radiation treatment

A study by Australian researchers demonstrates that PSMA PET scans can identify prostate cancer patients who would benefit from salvage radiation treatment. The study shows an overall treatment response of 72 percent, with men having negative or fossa-confined PSMA having the highest treatment response to SRT.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 4, 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.

Autism-linked gene stunts developing dendrites

A genetic variation linked to autism spectrum disorders stunts the growth of dendrites in rat cells and a mouse model of autism. This excessive pruning may contribute to differences in neuronal connectivity underlying social and communication deficits observed in autism.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateDec 4, 2017

A monkey and a virus: One million years together

Researchers analyzed vervet monkey genes to understand their interaction with SIV, a close relative of HIV. The study revealed the monkeys' ability to live with the virus has evolved over time, offering valuable data for humans to develop more effective treatments.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 4, 2017

Gene-based Zika vaccine is safe and immunogenic in healthy adults

A gene-based Zika vaccine developed by NIH scientists has been found to be safe and immunogenic in healthy adults, with 60-89% of participants generating a neutralizing antibody response. The vaccine, which includes a small piece of DNA called a plasmid, triggers the body to mount an immune response when injected into muscle.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 4, 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.

Clear leads to fully transparent devices

KAUST researchers have devised a strategy to integrate transparent conducting metal-oxide contacts with 2D semiconductors into fully transparent devices. The team used aluminum-doped zinc oxide, a low-cost transparent and electrically conductive material, to generate series of devices and circuits.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 4, 2017

Flying laboratory reveals crucial tropical forest conservation targets in Borneo

A new study using remote sensing and satellite mapping has identified 40% of northern Malaysian Borneo's carbon stocks in unprotected forests. The Carnegie Airborne Observatory mapped carbon stocks, guiding conservation efforts and suggesting that doubling carbon stocks could be achieved by allowing previously logged forests to regener...

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalBiological Conservation·DateDec 4, 2017

Cocaine is a consistent contributor to overdose deaths, especially among blacks

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that cocaine overdose deaths disproportionately impact the non-Hispanic black population, with rates comparable to those for heroin and prescription opioid-related deaths. The research highlights the need for targeted prevention efforts among this demographic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 4, 2017

How can humans keep the upper hand on artificial intelligence?

Researchers at EPFL have developed a method to prevent AI from learning to circumvent human commands, allowing for safe and controlled operation of autonomous systems. By introducing 'forgetting' mechanisms into the learning algorithms, they can ensure that interruptions do not affect the way machines learn.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateDec 4, 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.

Durotomy: A common complication of spinal surgery -- and an important factor in some malpractice cases

A study published in Spine Journal found that durotomy cases involving late detection and severe injury are more likely to result in a verdict in favor of the patient. The researchers identified 48 malpractice cases where incidental durotomy during spinal surgery led to litigation, with most resulting in a ruling in favor of the surgeon.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalSpine·DateDec 4, 2017

IU, Regenstrief study finds surrogate decision makers experience psychological distress

A new IU, Regenstrief study explores predictors and frequency of surrogate decision-maker distress, finding that emotional support is crucial for effective decisions and better psychological outcomes. Surrogate anxiety and depression were found to be prevalent among family members making medical decisions for hospitalized older adults.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 4, 2017

Online risks are routine for teens, most bounce back

A new study found that typical teens are resilient to negative online experiences, with effects vanishing within a week. Researchers believe coping skills may be learned through online interactions with friends or social media communities.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateDec 4, 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.

Bronze Age artifacts used meteoric iron

Recent research reveals that all Bronze Age iron artifacts were made from meteoric iron, a rare and valuable source of the metal. This finding challenges previous theories on the origins of bronze and provides new insights into ancient metalworking practices.

SourceCNRS·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateDec 4, 2017