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Science News Archive February 2017 - Page 17


Page 17 of 37

How cancers trick the immune system into helping rather than harming them

Scientists at Trinity College Dublin discovered how cancers hijack the immune system's wound-healing response to receive help. They found that a molecule called TRAIL can be re-wired in certain tumors to send an inflammatory signal, tricking the immune system into assisting cancer growth.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 16, 2017

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...

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceAlberta Health Services·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalForests·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBMC Zoology·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateFeb 16, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Consuming saturated animal fats increases the risk of type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that high consumption of saturated fatty acids and animal fat increased the risk of type 2 diabetes by twofold. The study also showed that substituting saturated fats with vegetable sources like olive oil and nuts can help prevent chronic diseases.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBMC Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 16, 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.

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.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateFeb 16, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateFeb 15, 2017
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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateFeb 15, 2017

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.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 15, 2017

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 ...

SourcePrinceton University·JournalEcology·DateFeb 15, 2017

Patient complaints can identify surgeons with higher rates of bad surgical outcomes

A study by Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that patient complaints can identify surgeons with higher rates of surgical site infections and other avoidable adverse outcomes. These physicians not only make patients unhappy but also impact the ability of other team members to do their work, leading to more complications.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateFeb 15, 2017
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.

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.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 15, 2017

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.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2017

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.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateFeb 15, 2017

New research highlights devastating impact of poverty on children's mental health

Children who move into poverty are more likely to suffer from social, emotional and behavioural problems than those who remain out of poverty. The study found that this is due in part to the adverse effect of poverty on mothers' mental health, which partially explains the negative impact on children's mental health.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateFeb 15, 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.

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.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalNature·DateFeb 15, 2017