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Science News Archive February 2017


Page 36 of 37

ORNL researchers break data transfer efficiency record

Researchers at ORNL have set a new record in superdense coding, transferring 1.67 bits per qubit over fiber optic cable. This achievement brings the technique one step closer to practical use and could lead to more efficient data transfer methods for applications like the Internet and cybersecurity.

Repurposing 2 autoimmune drugs for chikungunya virus

Researchers investigated using two approved autoimmune drugs to reduce joint swelling in mice infected with Chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne illness with no known therapies. Fingolimid and Abatacept showed promise in stopping T cell trafficking and inflammation, potentially paving the way for new treatments.

Stem cell transplants may induce long-term remission of multiple sclerosis

High-dose immunosuppressive therapy followed by stem cell transplantation has been shown to induce sustained remission in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Five years after treatment, 69% of participants had survived without progression or relapse, with some showing improvements in mobility and physical capabilities.

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.

UH research finds evidence of 2 billion years of volcanic activity on Mars

A Martian meteorite provides clues to the evolution of Mars, with evidence suggesting that some of the longest-lived volcanoes in the solar system are located on the Red Planet. The research offers new insights into the history of volcanic activity on Mars and confirms at least 2 billion years of volcanic activity.

Transparent gel-based robots can catch and release live fish

Researchers at MIT have developed transparent hydrogel robots that can perform fast, forceful tasks, including catching and releasing a live fish. The robots are nearly invisible underwater due to their similar visual and acoustic properties to water.

Sperm changes documented years after chemotherapy

Researchers have documented epigenetic changes in sperm of men who underwent chemotherapy in their teens, potentially affecting tissue health in subsequent generations. The study suggests that preserving sperm before undergoing chemotherapy may be necessary to mitigate these effects.

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.

A lure at both ends -- puff adders leave nothing to chance

Researchers at Wits University have discovered that puff adders use a unique strategy called 'lingual luring' to attract and catch amphibian prey. By extending their tongues for up to 30 seconds, puff adders increase the odds of catching their prey within striking range.

Scientists prove new approach to Polio vaccines works

A research team at the University of Leeds has identified new mutations that make 'empty capsids' stable enough to act as vaccines, replacing traditional killed poliovirus vaccines. The stabilised VLPs are suitable for use after the virus has been eradicated and can be produced without growing live virus.

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.

Novel liquid crystal could triple sharpness of today's televisions

Researchers developed a new blue-phase liquid crystal that can enable televisions and computer screens to pack more pixels into the same space while reducing power consumption. The material can achieve a resolution density of up to 1500 pixels per inch, which triples the sharpness of today's TVs.

Early signs of anxiety, depression may be evident in newborns

A study found that brain connectivity patterns in newborns can predict the development of anxiety and depression. Healthy full-term babies had similar brain connection patterns to adults, while premature infants showed decreased connections between the amygdala and other brain regions, increasing the risk of early symptoms.

Food insecurity: A threat to the developmental and psychosocial health of children

A systematic review of 23 studies found associations between food insecurity and adverse childhood developmental-behavioral outcomes in infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and adolescents. Food insecurity is linked to impaired cognitive development, academic performance, mental health symptoms, and behavioral problems.

Certainty in complex scientific research an unachievable goal

Researchers found anomalies in measurements of 3,200 quantities up to 100,000 times more often than expected, highlighting the limitations of scientific certainty. The study suggests that complex scientific disciplines like medicine and particle physics struggle to eliminate uncertainties.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smaller, more focused insurers earning profits in new market

A recent study published in New England Journal of Medicine found that smaller and more focused insurers are earning profits in the new healthcare market. The researchers attribute their success to their experience managing Medicaid programs, where they developed products targeting low-income consumers.

Breathing molecule discovered: Vital to treating respiratory conditions

Researchers at the University of Warwick have identified Connexin26, a vital molecule regulating breathing, which detects CO2 levels in the bloodstream. This discovery could lead to targeted treatments for respiratory problems and congenital deafness, improving quality of life for those affected.

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.

New genes for height revealed in global study of 700,000 people

A new study published in Nature reveals 83 new genetic variants strongly influencing human height, shedding light on the poorly understood area of human biology. The research found rare genetic changes with large effects on height, up to 2 cm, and may lead to precision medicine approaches for growth disorders.

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.

Yale scientists identify key defect in brain tumor cells

A novel genetic defect in brain tumor cells has been identified by Yale researchers, which renders the cancers sensitive to a specific DNA repair mechanism. The team found that using an FDA-approved drug, olaparib, can cause a significant increase in brain tumor cell death.

2017 AAAS/Subaru SB&F prize winners announced

The AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prizes for Excellence in Science Books recognize recent publications that promote high-quality science writing and illustration, engaging readers of all ages. Winners include Sara Levine's 'Tooth by Tooth' and Pamela S. Turner's 'Crow Smarts', which explore fascinating topics like animal teeth and crow intelligence.

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.

Seeing the same GP associated with fewer hospital admissions

A study published in The BMJ found that continuity of care with a general practitioner is associated with lower hospital admissions for ambulatory care sensitive conditions among older patients. Patients who saw the same GP more frequently experienced almost 9-12% fewer admissions.

Controlling electron spin makes water splitting more efficient

Dutch and Israeli researchers have successfully controlled electron spin in a photo-electrochemical cell, reducing the production of hydrogen peroxide and increasing water splitting efficiency. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient hydrogen generation through solar energy.

Stress hormones underlie Indigenous health gap in Australia

A study found that young Indigenous people's biological stress response is linked to the racism they experience, with impaired cortisol levels leading to a higher risk of poor mental health. The researchers suggest that this could be used to predict the development of mental health problems in First Nations' people.

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.

Why thick skin develops on our palms and soles, and its links to cancer

A study from Queen Mary University of London discovered that thick skin on the palms and soles is linked to oesophageal cancer, a prevalent disease in the UK. Researchers found an inherited form of cancer called Tylosis, which causes severe skin thickening, also increases the risk of developing oesophageal cancer.

Study adds to evidence that electronic cigarettes are not harmless

A new study published in JAMA Cardiology has found that habitual e-cigarette users are more likely to have increased cardiac sympathetic activity and oxidative stress compared to non-users. The findings suggest that e-cigarettes may not be harmless and warrant further research into their potential adverse cardiovascular health effects.

Complex bacterium writes new evolutionary story

A new type of bacterial structure with pore-like features has been discovered in Gemmata obscuriglobus, a complex bacterium. The finding suggests that the evolution of complex cell structures may not be unique to eukaryotes.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

MIT's wearable AI system can detect a conversation's tone

A new wearable AI system developed by MIT researchers can predict the tone of conversations with high accuracy, analyzing audio and vital-sign data. The system has shown promise in understanding social interactions, particularly for people with anxiety or Asperger's syndromes.

A cheaper way to make a WHO-designated essential medicine

Researchers at Durham University create a one-step method to produce flucytosine from naturally occurring cytosine, reducing production costs and improving availability in African countries. The new process has been successfully scaled up for manufacturing and could help lower the drug's cost.

Food and beverage industry marketing kids to deatlh

Over 90% of online ads targeting children are unhealthy products, with kids viewing 25 million ads annually on their favorite websites. This excessive marketing puts children at risk for various health problems, including obesity and heart disease.

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.

Risk of liver cancer is low in patients with cirrhosis

A recent study published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found that the 10-year incidence of liver cancer in UK patients with cirrhosis is as low as 4%. Patients with cirrhosis due to chronic viral hepatitis have the highest risk, but even then, it's lower than expected.

Challenges of breeding 'VIPeas'

Crossing chickpeas is challenging due to self-pollination and inbreeding. Researchers found that emasculation and hormone treatment do not increase cross-pollination rates, instead lowering success rates. Studying environmental factors like light, temperature, and humidity may improve breeding efficiency.

Increased food assistance benefits could result in fewer ER visits

Researchers found that a $100 increase in SNAP benefits decreases the likelihood of an ER visit for hypoglycemia by about 13 percent. More generous SNAP benefits could help low-income families manage household budgets to avoid nutritional fluctuations leading to fewer ER visits.

High-resolution imaging reveals new understanding of battery cathode particles

Scientists at Berkeley Lab discovered particle cracking in cathode materials during charging and discharging, reducing battery capacity and life. The research provides unprecedented mechanistic understanding of electrode material and potential ways to minimize cracking, leading to improved stability and longer battery lifespan.

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.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Dolphins following shrimp trawlers cluster in social groups

A study published in PLOS ONE found that bottlenose dolphins near Savannah, Georgia are divided into six social clusters, with half following shrimp trawlers and the other half not. This suggests that foraging behavior around humans may be socially learned.

First ever blueprint unveiled to construct a large scale quantum computer

An international team has published a practical blueprint for building a universal quantum computer, capable of solving complex problems in science and medicine. The machine's capabilities include answering questions on the furthest reaches of space, creating lifesaving medicines, and unraveling scientific mysteries.

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.

Vitamin C may decrease the risk of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery

A systematic review of 14 randomized trials found that vitamin C significantly reduced the incidence of post-operative atrial fibrillation in high-risk patients. The review also showed that vitamin C decreased hospital stay length and intensive care unit stay, with intravenous administration having greater effects.

A multiple drug approach to preventing sickle cell crisis

Researchers advocate for a multi-drug treatment strategy to tackle vaso-occlusive crises in sickle cell disease, targeting different processes in the pathogenesis. The new approach has shown promising results in reducing crisis episodes, but further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.