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Science News Archive February 2017


Page 17 of 37

Algorithm can create a bridge between Clinton and Trump supporters

A study at Aalto University aims to reduce societal polarization by connecting people with opposing views on Twitter. The algorithm suggests bridges between users of opposing sides, such as Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, to provide recommendations about who to retweet.

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.

A case where smoking helped

Researchers found that a specific mutation in hemoglobin makes it selectively bind to carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke, preventing oxidation and anemia. The father's smoking habit prevents him from developing the disease, while his daughter requires treatment with antioxidants to manage her condition.

Glowing mice suggest new gene therapy technique

A novel gene therapy technique, called charge-altering releasable transporters (CARTs), has been developed to deliver messenger RNA (mRNA) into cells. This method overcomes the challenge of delivering mRNA through cell membranes and shows promise for treating diseases by inserting therapeutic proteins.

Children's National Health System, in partnership with GW, receives second CTSA

The Children's National Health System has received a prestigious Clinical and Translational Science Award, worth $24 million, to break down research barriers and foster innovative pediatric-focused translational research. The partnership enables the translation of research into real-life improvements in child health, addressing various...

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.

Looking beyond cancer cells to understand what makes breast cancer spread

A new study from Michigan Medicine identifies a protein in the microenvironment of metastatic breast cancer cells that promotes their spread. The researchers found that this protein, DDR2, plays a key role in fueling the growth and migration of cancer cells, and that inhibiting it may prevent metastasis.

Gene therapy used to treat Fabry disease -- a world first

Researchers have used gene therapy to treat Fabry disease, a rare inherited enzyme deficiency that can damage major organs and shorten lifespan. The treatment involves transplanted altered stem cells with copies of the fully functional gene responsible for the missing enzyme.

Solving the puzzle of Alzheimer's disease

A UAlberta study found that AC253 improves memory and learning in mice with Alzheimer's-like symptoms, reducing amyloid levels and inflammation in the brain. Further studies are needed to optimize dosage and effectiveness.

Real-time MRI analysis powered by supercomputers

Researchers develop a pipeline to power fast and accurate image processing for precision medicine. The platform combines the imaging capabilities of Philips MRI scanners with the processing power of Stampede supercomputer.

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.

Pizza, burgers and the like: A single high-fat meal can damage the metabolism

A single high-fat meal can reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin, leading to increased fat deposits in the liver and changes in energy metabolism. This study found that even a small amount of palm oil triggers insulin resistance, which can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.

Depression or anxiety may increase risk of surgical wound complications

A new study found that patients with moderate anxiety or depression are at a higher risk of experiencing wound-related complications after surgery. The likelihood of such complications is 1.17- to 1.20-times greater for these patients, emphasizing the need for preoperative assessment of psychological state.

How much biomass grows in the savannah?

A team of geographers has developed a methodology to measure aboveground woody biomass in savannahs, with results showing significant changes in the ecosystem. The study found that some areas of Kruger National Park's savannah are experiencing declining biomass due to elephant activity, not human impact.

Foot-and-mouth crises to be averted with vaccination strategy

Researchers from the University of Warwick have discovered that establishing a daily vaccination capacity can effectively control and eradicate foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks. By tailoring controls to this number, the UK could save up to £50 million and spare around 200,000 animals from culling.

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.

Can facial recognition systems help save lemurs?

A new facial recognition system, LemurFaceID, identifies over 100 individual lemurs with 98.7% accuracy, providing a rapid and cost-effective method for long-term research of endangered species. This technology also offers a humane alternative to capture and collar methods.

People far from urban lights, bright screens still skimp on sleep

A Duke University study found people in rural Madagascar get shorter, poorer sleep than those in the US or Europe, but compensate by having a more consistent sleep schedule. Despite disrupted rest due to noise and light, participants reported being happy with their sleep.

Same behavior outdoors and in the lab

Desert ants have an internal navigation system that allows them to measure distance by recording steps taken and orient themselves using the sun. In a lab experiment, researchers created a spherical treadmill for the ants to navigate on, showing high precision in their navigation skills.

Four-stroke engine cycle produces hydrogen from methane and captures CO2

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a laboratory-scale system that produces green hydrogen at relatively low temperatures, capturing CO2 emissions. The CO2/H2 Active Membrane Piston (CHAMP) reactor can be scaled up or down to meet specific needs and operates more slowly than conventional engines.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Placebo and valium are equally effective for acute lower back pain in the ER

A double-blind, randomized clinical trial found that patients treated with naproxen and placebo had outcomes as good as those treated with naproxen and diazepam (Valium) for acute lower back pain. By three months after visiting the emergency department, most patients had recovered completely regardless of treatment.

Queen's researchers make breakthrough in fight against superbug

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a multi-drug resistant microbe causing severe infections with mortality rates of 25-60 percent. Researchers have identified the underlying molecular explanations preventing treatment, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to counteract its effects.

Immune cell serves as an essential communications link for migrating cells

Researchers discovered that macrophages transmit messages between non-immune cells, such as pigment cells in fish, to facilitate complex patterns like stripes. This unique function of macrophages suggests they may play a broader role in intercellular communication, affecting tissue development, regeneration, and cancer.

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.

Encouraging signs for potential new antibiotic

A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy reveals that epidermicin is as effective as mupirocin in eradicating MRSA from cotton rats' nostrils. The results justify further development of epidermicin as an alternative to existing antimicrobial agents.

Big improvement to brain-computer interface

Researchers at San Diego State University have developed glassy carbon electrodes that transmit more robust signals to restore motion in people with damaged spinal cords. This innovation improves durability and signal quality, enabling better motor function restoration.

Cells divide by 'bricklaying on moving scaffolding'

Researchers discovered how bacteria build new cell walls by 'treadmilling', adding material to the front and removing it from the rear. This process allows for rapid cell division, with new cell walls constructed in just 10-15 minutes.

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.

Targeting the biological clock could slow the progression of cancer

Researchers at McGill University have discovered that targeting the biological clock in cancer cells can inhibit tumor growth. By 'repairing' the malfunctioning clock, tumors grew nearly half as fast as those without such intervention, suggesting a potential new way to treat cancer in humans.

Moths' sweet way of compensating for lack of antioxidants

A new study reveals that nectar-feeding moths can avoid oxidative damage to their muscles by converting carbohydrates into antioxidants. The researchers found that the moths rely on the pentose phosphate pathway to produce antioxidants, a mechanism that may be shared with other animals, including humans.

NASA gets a night-time view ex-Tropical Cyclone Dineo

The NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured a night-time image of the ex-tropical cyclone, showing it had become elongated as it weakened. The storm is expected to continue weakening as it tracks further inland on February 16, bringing heavy rain and localized flooding to parts of South Africa.

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.

Roads are driving rapid evolutionary change in our environment

A Dartmouth-led study finds that roads trigger rapid evolutionary changes in wild populations, with some species adapting to pollutants and others becoming maladapted. This shift is transforming scientists' views of the biological impacts of roads on ecosystems.

Spider web of cancer proteins reveals new drug possibilities

Researchers at Emory University's Winship Cancer Institute have mapped a vast network of interactions between cancer proteins, revealing new ways to target cells with mutations. This approach identified a potential link between FDA-approved drug palbociclib and a commonly mutated gene in lung cancer cells.

Robbed of royalty: Mutilation and social determination of female Diacamma ants

A study on female Diacamma ants reveals that gene expression patterns primarily determine caste differentiation in nutrition-related genes. The research found that only a small number of genes differentiate the reproductive and worker castes, supporting the idea that increased energy requirement may drive eusociality evolution.

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.

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.

Using an air conditioner in summer may affect sleep quality

A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that general air conditioner airflow can influence sleep conditions, even at low velocities. The research suggests customized airflow settings may help create a comfortable sleeping environment.

Engineers shrink microscope to dime-sized device

Researchers at UT Dallas have created a miniaturized atomic force microscope on a chip, reducing the size and potential cost of the device. This breakthrough technology has the potential to expand the instrument's utility beyond current scientific applications, including the semiconductor industry.

Deadly spider's unique spinning technique could inspire tougher materials

Researchers discovered that brown recluse spiders use a micro looping technique to make their threads stronger than other spiders, with the added benefit of preventing premature breakage. This technique could lead to new fibre technology inspired by the spider's silk, potentially improving impact absorbing structures in space travel.

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.

Study confirms vitamin D protection against cold and flu

A global study confirms that vitamin D supplementation reduces the risk of acute respiratory infections by cutting it in half for individuals with severe vitamin D deficiency. Regular supplementation also offers benefits, whereas occasional high doses show no significant impact.

How temperature guides where species live and where they'll go

A Princeton University-based study found that temperature and habitat predominantly determine the elevations where bird species live in the Himalayas. Competition limits only 12% of species, while temperature and habitat dictate 48% and 40%, respectively. The findings have significant implications for predicting how life on Earth will ...

Research opens door to smaller, cheaper, more agile communications tech

The team's breakthrough enables an innovative approach to data processing and switching using magnetized liquid crystals and steerable light beams. This technology could lead to tiny components that process huge amounts of data, as well as compact and fast optical switches, routers and modulators.

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.

Emotions are cognitive, not innate, researchers conclude

New York University researchers LeDoux and Brown argue that emotions arise from a general cortical network of cognition, similar to conscious experiences. They propose a higher-order theory of emotional consciousness, challenging existing theories that consider emotions as innately programmed in the brain.

The Lancet Psychiatry: Large imaging study confirms brain differences in ADHD

A large imaging study of over 3200 people confirms that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with delayed development of five brain regions, supporting the notion that it is a brain disorder. The study found differences in brain volume across all age groups, but most pronounced in children.

Signals from fat may aid diagnostics and treatments

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center identified a new therapeutic approach by studying the role of microRNAs released from fat cells into the bloodstream. They found that these microRNAs can regulate gene expression in other organs and tissues, potentially leading to new treatments for metabolic diseases and cancer.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.