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Science News Archive February 2017 - Page 12


Page 12 of 37

Stabilizing energy storage

Researchers improve redox flow batteries by designing charge-storing molecules that are up to 1,000 times more stable than current compounds. This breakthrough aims to increase the capacity and efficiency of large batteries for grid storage, enabling full utilization of renewable energy sources.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateFeb 21, 2017

3,000 steps in 30 minutes improves the prognosis for heart failure

A new study published in Circulation shows that supervised exercise training can improve the pumping function of a damaged heart and reduce hospitalization rates. Patients who performed 3,000 steps in 30 minutes at moderate intensity experienced significant benefits, including decreased strain on the heart and improved oxygen uptake.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 21, 2017

Legal marijuana sales creating escalating damage to the environment

The expansion of legal marijuana cultivation in US states is causing significant environmental damage, including high water and energy demands, local contamination, and air pollution. Researchers are urging the need for more studies on the industry to protect public health and the environment.

SourceLancaster University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 21, 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.

Novel breast tomosynthesis technique reduces screening recall rate

A new digital breast tomosynthesis technique has been shown to reduce screening recall rates and improve cancer detection, while minimizing radiation exposure. The technique, known as s2D mammography combined with DBT, detected 76.5% of invasive cancers at a lower rate than traditional methods.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateFeb 21, 2017

It takes 2 to tango: Beetles are equal partners in mating behavior

Research by entomologists from the University of Lincoln found that female beetles control the duration of copulation, with kicking time remaining consistent when mated to the same partner. In contrast, mating to different partners resulted in varying kick times and durations.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateFeb 21, 2017

Israeli, Palestinian researchers cooperate to find risks for B cell non-hodgkin lymphoma

A large-scale epidemiological study has uncovered common and unique risk factors for B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) in Israeli and Palestinian populations. The study found that recreational sun exposure, black hair-dye use, and a history of hospitalization for infection were associated with an increased risk of B-NHL in both groups.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 21, 2017

Dying patients who received palliative care visited the ER less

A study of nearly 12,000 records found that community-based palliative care reduced emergency department visits for dying patients by an average of two times per year. Patients receiving palliative care were more likely to live in urban areas and have a partner, leading to significant reductions in ER visits.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateFeb 21, 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.

Start codons in DNA may be more numerous than previously thought

A team of researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has discovered at least 47 possible start codons in DNA, which can trigger protein synthesis. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that only a small number of three-letter sequences in mRNA could initiate translation.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateFeb 21, 2017

Average life expectancy set to increase by 2030

A study by Imperial College London predicts that average life expectancy will increase in 35 industrialised countries by 2030. The results show that South Korean women may live up to 90.8 years, while a 65-year-old woman can expect an additional 27.5 years of life.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 21, 2017
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.

Unlocking the heart-protective benefits of soy

A University of Pittsburgh-led study discovered that Japanese men who produce equol, a substance made by gut bacteria when metabolizing isoflavones, have lower levels of heart disease risk factors. The research suggests that equol production may hold the key to why some people derive a heart-protective benefit from eating soy foods.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateFeb 21, 2017

New data about 2 distant asteroids give a clue to the possible 'Planet Nine'

Researchers have observed spectroscopically two distant asteroids and found their orbits are almost identical, suggesting a common origin. The team proposes that these asteroids were once a binary pair that separated after an encounter with a planet beyond Pluto's orbit.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 21, 2017

Colorado River flows will keep shrinking as climate warms

Researchers warn that climate change will continue to shrink the Colorado River's flows, reducing water supplies for seven US Western states and Mexico. With temperatures projected to rise and precipitation uncertainty, future drought periods are likely, posing significant challenges for water managers.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalWater Resources Research·DateFeb 21, 2017

NASA spots short-lived Tropical Cyclone Alfred

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured a visible image of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, showing half the storm over land and half in the Gulf of Carpentaria. The cyclone developed from a tropical low pressure area and made landfall near the Queensland-Northern Territory border, weakening to a remnant low pressure area.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 21, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Listeria infection causes early pregnancy loss in primates

Researchers have discovered how Listeria monocytogenes travels to fatally attack the placenta and fetus during early pregnancy in macaque monkeys, raising questions about current understanding of listeriosis risk. The study reveals clues that may lead to better screening and interventions during pregnancy.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateFeb 21, 2017

Life expectancy set to increase in developed nations

Life expectancies in developed countries are projected to continue increasing, with South Korean women potentially surpassing 90 years old by 2030. The study predicts significant gains in life expectancy for men and women in several countries, including Australia, France, Japan, and the UK.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 21, 2017

E-cigarettes popular among smokers with existing illnesses

Current and former smokers with medical comorbidities are more likely to use e-cigarettes, which may be seen as a safer alternative to combustible cigarettes. The study found that e-cigarette use continues to rise, especially among present smokers with asthma or cardiovascular disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2017

Prediction: More gas-giants will be found orbiting Sun-like stars

Researchers suggest an unseen population of gas giant planets may exist at distances similar to Jupiter and Saturn, resolving a long-standing debate about their formation. The predicted planets could be found using NASA's Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateFeb 21, 2017
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.

Longevity-promoting superstar gets revealed in Caenorhabditis reproducibility project

The Caenorhabditis Intervention Testing Program (CITP) identified Thioflavin T as the most robust pro-longevity chemical, extending lifespan in all strains tested. Six out of ten compounds significantly extended lifespan in at least one strain, with three dietary restriction mimetics showing variable responses across species.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2017

$420,000 grant funds study on polio-like virus

A $420,000 grant has funded a two-year study on Enterovirus 71 (EV71), a relatively new virus compared to polio, which can cause paralysis in young children. The researcher hopes to develop specific and effective treatments for the illnesses caused by EV71.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso·DateFeb 21, 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.

Risk of Ross River Virus global epidemic

A new study suggests that the virus may have been circulating silently in the South Pacific since a large epidemic in 1979-80. Researchers found that many people born after the epidemic had antibodies to the virus, indicating local transmission.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalInternational Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 21, 2017

Modern housing associated with reduced malaria risk in sub-Saharan Africa

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that modern houses with metal roofs and finished walls are associated with a reduced risk of malaria in children under age 5. The researchers analyzed data from 29 surveys in 21 African countries and found a significant correlation between improved housing conditions and lower malaria rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2017

DOOMED is new online learning approach to robotics modeling

Researchers developed an adaptive control approach based on online learning to correct dynamics errors in real-time, improving robustness of motion systems. The DOOMED algorithm updates a correction model until correct acceleration is achieved, minimizing error between desired and actual accelerations.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBig Data·DateFeb 21, 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 may cause miscarriages, thin brain tissue in babies carried to term

A new mouse model reveals that the Zika virus can cross the placenta and lead to high percentages of miscarriages and thin brain tissue in babies. The study's findings suggest a mechanism by which the virus may be evading antiviral proteins, highlighting potential targets for treatment or vaccine development.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2017

Cat ownership not linked to mental health problems

A new study published in Psychological Medicine has found no link between cat ownership and psychotic symptoms in children. The research, which followed nearly 5,000 people from age 13 to 18, controlled for other factors such as household overcrowding and socioeconomic status.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2017

Seizures tracked with apple watch app linked to stress, missed sleep

A new study using an Apple Watch app found that seizures in people with epilepsy are often triggered by stress and missed sleep. The app, called EpiWatch, recorded participants' heart rate and movements for 10 minutes after a seizure to help researchers better understand the condition.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 21, 2017

New technique generates high volume of sensory cells needed for hearing

A two-step process has been developed to multiply stem cells found in the inner ear and convert them into hair cells, restoring partial hearing to mice. The researchers generated over 11,500 hair cells from a single mouse, offering hope for full hearing restoration in those with damaged hair cells.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 21, 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.

Maths and maps make you nervous? It could be in your genes

A new study by researchers at King's College London found that genetic factors play a significant role in anxiety related to spatial and mathematical tasks. The study identified several forms of anxiety, including general, mathematics, and spatial anxiety, with non-shared environments contributing to differences between individuals.

SourceKing's College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 21, 2017

Origin of spooky meteor noises reappraised by Sandia researchers

A team of scientists, led by Richard Spalding, discovered that the brilliant pulsating light emitted by burning asteroids can heat surrounding objects and generate sounds. This phenomenon, known as photoacoustic coupling, produces faint sounds similar to rustling leaves or whispers.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 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.

New approach to cervical cancer care in Botswana cuts treatment lag time in half

A new, multidisciplinary model of cervical cancer care developed by a University of Pennsylvania team in Botswana cut the delay between diagnosis and treatment by more than 50 percent. The model streamlined care and communication between providers, reducing delays in treatment and simplifying the overall process.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Global Oncology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Fifth of world's food lost to over-eating and waste, study finds

A recent study suggests that almost 20% of food produced is lost due to over-consumption and waste. This represents a significant amount of resources wasted globally, which could be redirected to improve global food security and prevent environmental harm.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateFeb 20, 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.

Augsburg Master Builders' Ledgers now available online

The Augsburg Master Builders' Ledgers provide a unique window into the economic, financial, social, and cultural history of the early modern period. The digital edition, made possible by three years of work, offers a comprehensive inventory of information on the city's income and expenditure from 1320 to 1800.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateFeb 20, 2017

Doctors' biases mean black men don't get the same treatment in healthcare

A qualitative study by Marie Plaisime found that healthcare providers perceive black male patients with bias, fear, and discomfort. This bias influences treatment decisions, leading to unequal care for black men compared to white male patients with identical symptoms.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateFeb 20, 2017

Scientists explore the evolution of a 'social supergene' in the red fire ant

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London found that a chromosome responsible for the social organization of colonies is likely to have evolved through a single genetic event. The study reveals that a 'supergene' region containing over 500 genes plays a crucial role in determining colony type and social organization.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Barriers and opportunities to mainstreaming of a national digital health program

A new study reveals barriers and facilitators to implementing a digital health programme in the UK, highlighting challenges such as lack of IT infrastructure and trust in security. The researchers provide ten key recommendations to aid adoption, including investment in digital healthcare and upskilling efforts.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateFeb 20, 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.

GMU researchers helping intelligence analysts make smart decisions

Researchers at George Mason University are developing a tool combining intelligent computer software and crowdsourcing to help intelligence analysts make informed decisions. The IARPA-funded Co-Arg project aims to provide cognitive assistants that can test hypotheses, evaluate evidence, and provide intelligent reasoning in high-stakes ...

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 20, 2017

UT mole study shows anyone can be backyard scientist

A new study by Vladimir Dinets of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville shows that broad-footed moles feed on the ground frequently during cool, wet nights with fog or rain. This nocturnal foraging behavior makes surface-active moles difficult to observe, and contradicts long-held assumptions about their fossorial lifestyle.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalMammalia·DateFeb 20, 2017

Cars and chlamydia killing Queensland koalas

A University of Queensland-led study found that cars and chlamydia were the top causes of a 80% decline in south-east Queensland koalas over two decades. At least a quarter of healthy, breeding koalas died from car accidents, while half the population was affected by multiple diseases or health problems.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 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.

Changes of supermassive black hole in the center of NGC 2617 galaxy

Astronomers observe a dramatic change in the appearance of supermassive black hole in NGC 2617 galaxy, revealing previously hidden inner regions. Researchers believe rapid gas swallowing and intense radiation may be responsible for the transformation.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 20, 2017

Tiny nanoclusters could solve big problems for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed superionic solid nanoclusters that could replace liquid electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries. The nanoclusters' unique structure enables ions to move through them like a liquid, improving thermal and mechanical stability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 20, 2017

A novel positioning algorithm based on self-adaptive algorithm

The proposed SA-RBF-TSE algorithm corrects TDOA measurements using a Self-Adaptive RBF neural network and improves position estimation. It adapts the number of RBF nodes and center vector based on error distribution, resulting in high accuracy and reliability compared to other algorithms.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Electrical & Electronic Engineering Journal·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Single-payer reform is 'the only way to fulfill the president's pledge' on health care

A single-payer health reform would provide comprehensive first-dollar coverage to all Americans, abolishing copayments and deductibles, while saving an estimated $504 billion annually in administrative costs. The proposal, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, also includes hard bargaining with drug companies over prices.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2017