Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2017 - Page 35


Page 35 of 37

Toward all-solid lithium batteries

A team at MIT has probed the mechanical properties of a sulfide-based solid electrolyte material, determining its potential for use in all-solid-state batteries. The research found that the material exhibits a combination of properties similar to silly putty or salt water taffy, showing promise in energy density and safety.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 2, 2017

Precision-medicine approach could revive prostate cancer test

Researchers at UC San Francisco and Kaiser Permanente have identified genetic predictors of normal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in healthy men. This information can be used to improve the accuracy of PSA-based prostate cancer screening tests.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2017

Tail of stray black hole hiding in the Milky Way

Astronomers detected a compact molecular cloud with unusual motion near the supernova remnant W44, suggesting the presence of a hidden black hole. The black hole is estimated to be between 3.5 and 36 times more massive than the sun, sparking debate over its origin.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 2, 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.

Scientists look to shine light on our dark genome

The new ENCODE centers will use cutting-edge technology to define the functions and gene targets of regulatory sequences, which play a major role in diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and autism. Scientists aim to identify crucial regulatory elements that control gene expression and cell behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateFeb 2, 2017

Adults with autism see interests as strengths, career paths

A study by NYU's Steinhardt School found that adults with autism view their interests positively, believing they should be encouraged. These interests also alleviate anxiety in 92% of respondents and are used as strengths in career paths and educational settings.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalOccupational Therapy in Mental Health·DateFeb 2, 2017

Change in astronaut's gut bacteria attributed to spaceflight

Researchers studying NASA astronaut Scott Kelly's gut bacteria found changes associated with spaceflight that reversed upon return to Earth. The study, part of the 'twins' research, also discovered fluctuations in bacterial populations between identical twin brothers Scott and Mark Kelly.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 2, 2017

Wetlands play vital role in carbon storage, study finds

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that wetlands store a significant amount of carbon, with freshwater inland wetlands holding nearly 10 times more carbon than tidal saltwater sites. The research highlights the importance of protecting wetlands from human activity to prevent climate change.

SourceKenyon College·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 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.

Researchers engineer new thyroid cells

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine have discovered an efficient way to generate thyroid cells using genetically modified embryonic stem cells. The findings, published in Stem Cell Reports, are the first step towards developing a protocol using human stem cells to model thyroid disease and develop therapies.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 2, 2017

The drugs don't work, say back pain researchers

New research from The George Institute for Global Health reveals that commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs provide limited short-term pain relief and cause significant side effects. The study highlights the need for developing new therapies to treat back pain, which affects 80% of Australians during their lifetime.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateFeb 2, 2017

Why has ENSO been more difficult to predict since 2000?

Decadal variations in ENSO's predictability have decreased significantly since 2000, according to a recent study. The researchers suggest that a weakening of ocean-atmosphere coupling in the tropical Pacific is responsible for this decline, leading to more variable and less predictable weather patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 2, 2017

HKU scientists utilize innovative neuroimaging approach to unravel complex brain networks

Researchers have successfully manipulated optogenetics and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to capture large-scale brain-wide neural activity propagation and interaction dynamics. The study revealed dynamic network wiring in the mammalian species, challenging previous assumptions about brain connectivity.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 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.

UW scientists find key cues to regulate bone-building cells

Researchers discovered lipocalin-2 and prolactin proteins regulate mesenchymal stem cell activity in the lab and in mice with calvarial defects. This discovery aims to improve culture conditions for growing bone cells and develop therapies for bone repair.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 2, 2017

Protecting rice crops at no extra cost

A new study identified a genetic mechanism in rice that provides resistance to devastating disease without compromising grain yield. Researchers discovered that co-expression of PigmS limits seed damage associated with PigmR, allowing for increased protection and yield.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 2, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIH to expand critical catalog for genomics research

The National Institutes of Health plans to expand its ENCODE Project, a genomics resource used by many scientists to study human health and disease. With additional funding, NHGRI will strengthen the foundation of high-quality data, tools, and analyses for research projects on genome sequences and gene regulation.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateFeb 2, 2017

Political affiliation can predict how people will react to false information about threats

A new UCLA-led study found that people's political affiliations significantly impact their perception of credible information about potential hazards. Conservatives were more likely to find false statements about threats believable than liberals. The research suggests that liberals are less likely to dismiss warnings, while conservativ...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 2, 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.

Study: Children, parents over-report leukemia treatment adherence

A new study found that 84% of patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia or their parents over-reported adherence to a regimen of 6-mercaptopurine, an oral maintenance therapy. Forgetfulness was the primary reason for non-adherence, and parental involvement improved adherence rates.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateFeb 2, 2017

Treatment has no sufficient effect in 1 of 5 psoriasis patients

A study of 2,646 Swedish psoriasis patients found that nearly one in five still experienced high disease activity despite ongoing systemic treatment. The authors suggest increasing access to biologics and exploring new treatments, as well as supporting lifestyle improvements for better outcomes.

SourceUmea University·JournalJournal of Dermatological Treatment·DateFeb 2, 2017

Researchers chart global genetic interaction networks in human cancer cells

Researchers at Whitehead Institute have identified essential genes in human cancer cells, revealing potential vulnerabilities for new therapies. By analyzing genetic interactions, they discovered a genetically defined subset of cancers that could be exploited with existing treatments.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateFeb 2, 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.

Full(erene) potential

Researchers at UCSB have developed a simple method to master the electrical properties of polymer semiconductors by adding specific molecules that 'trap' charge carriers. This technique allows for efficient design and manufacture of organic circuitry with varying complexity, while maintaining economical manufacturing costs.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 2, 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.

Insomnia linked to higher risk of developing asthma

A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that people experiencing insomnia symptoms have a higher risk of developing asthma. Participants who reported difficulty falling asleep or waking up early had a significantly increased risk of developing asthma over an 11-year period.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateFeb 1, 2017

Some fast-food packaging contains potentially harmful fluorinated compounds

A new study found that some fast-food packaging in the US contains a variety of fluorinated compounds, including long-chain PFASs associated with developmental problems, decreased fertility, and increased cancer risk. The researchers detected fluorine in nearly half of food contact papers overall.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateFeb 1, 2017

Neutrons identify critical details in bacterial enzyme implicated in gastric cancer

Researchers used neutron crystallography to visualize the positions and movements of hydrogen atoms in a key enzyme from Helicobacter pylori, which causes stomach cancer. The study provides insights into the enzyme's structure and potential targets for new medications that selectively target H. pylori without harming useful bacteria.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2017

Older Canadians skip meds due to cost, putting them at risk for complications

A study by the University of British Columbia found that one in 12 older Canadians skipped prescriptions in 2014 due to cost, highlighting a public health issue. Canadians aged 55-64 face significant barriers to filling their prescriptions, with low-income individuals being three times more likely to report financial barriers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 1, 2017

'Mirror game' test could secure early detection of schizophrenia, study shows

A new study has developed a mirror game test using computer avatars to accurately detect specific variations in patient movement and social interaction, showing comparable results to clinical interviews and neuroimaging methods. The test may provide an affordable and effective device for early diagnosis and management of schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalSchizophrenia·DateFeb 1, 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.

Soccer ball heading may commonly cause concussion symptoms

A new study published in Neurology suggests that frequent soccer ball heading is a common and underrecognized cause of concussion symptoms. The study found that amateur soccer players who frequently head the ball are at an increased risk of experiencing classic concussion symptoms, even without an overt collision.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 1, 2017

Study reveals public resistance toward workplace standing guidelines

A recent study by King's College London revealed widespread confusion and misapprehension about the health value of standing among the public. Respondents questioned the credibility of the guidance, citing impracticality and prioritization of productivity over employee health.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 1, 2017

What to expect from big pharma in 2017

The number of new therapeutic drugs approved by the FDA was significantly lower in 2016 compared to previous years, with only four cancer drugs receiving approval. Delays in pharmaceutical manufacturing plants and a reduction in cancer drug approvals contributed to this trend.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 1, 2017

Seven heart-healthy habits could save billions in Medicare costs

A new study found that achieving ideal levels for five to seven heart-healthy habits can reduce cardiovascular risk and lower healthcare expenditures. Participants with higher scores were less likely to have all-cause and cardiovascular disease-related hospitalizations and outpatient visits, resulting in $5,016 less in total costs.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 1, 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.

Vitamin D discovery could prove key to new treatments

Researchers discovered that a vitamin D metabolite inhibits proteins regulating lipid production, opening new treatment opportunities for diseases linked to vitamin D deficiency. The study's findings suggest potential therapeutic applications for synthetic analogs of the metabolite.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateFeb 1, 2017

Understanding the genetics of human height

Researchers discovered 83 genetic variations affecting adult height by more than 2 centimeters, influencing bone and cartilage development. The study's findings may help identify genetic variations that influence common diseases and develop personalized treatments.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 2017

Discovery of new T-cell subtype opens window on rheumatoid arthritis

A research team at Brigham and Women's Hospital has identified a unique subset of T-cells that collaborate with other immune cells to drive inflammation in peripheral tissues. These cells display unusual biological features and stimulate B-cells to produce antibodies, contributing to tissue damage in autoimmune diseases.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 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.

More dialysis does not deliver benefits, study finds

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that doubling dialysis hours did not improve overall quality of life for patients with kidney failure. However, some intermediate outcomes improved, such as blood pressure parameters and biochemistry measurements.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 1, 2017

Researchers flip script for Li-Ion electrolytes to simulate better batteries

Researchers at Caltech used a supercomputer to identify new electrolyte materials that could enhance lithium-ion battery performance. They found polymers with promising properties for lithium-ion conduction, which could lead to more efficient and stable batteries.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 1, 2017

A closer look at what caused the Flint water crisis

Researchers analyzed galvanized iron pipes from Flint, Michigan's 'ground zero' house and found that high lead concentrations correlated with cadmium, zinc, and tin levels. The study suggests that corrosion inhibitors were necessary to prevent lead contamination, highlighting the need for long-term pipe replacement.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 1, 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.

Background suppression for super-resolution light microscopy

The team of Professor Gerd Ulrich Nienhaus has refined the STED nanoscopy method to suppress background efficiently, resulting in enhanced image quality. This new method, named STEDD, is particularly advantageous for quantitative data analysis of three-dimensional molecules and cell structures.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 1, 2017

Banks hold major information advantage over other investors

A study by University of Vermont researchers found that banks enjoy a significant edge over investors due to their superior access to local private information. Banks can quickly adapt to new information and withdraw capital or invest more heavily in targeted areas, giving them a major advantage. In contrast, direct investors face limi...

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of International Business Studies·DateFeb 1, 2017

Drug combination effective against chikungunya arthritis in mice

A combination of a rheumatoid arthritis drug and an antiviral targeting the chikungunya virus eliminates signs of arthritis in mice at its earliest stage. The treatment shows promise for patients with no existing treatment options, with further studies planned to investigate human efficacy.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 1, 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.

Lower incidence of esophagitis in elderly NSCLC patients undergoing definitive radiation

A study found that elderly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients experiencing definitive radiation had a lower incidence of esophagitis compared to younger patients. The study, published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology, showed an inverse correlation between age and rate of esophagitis for both grade levels.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 1, 2017

New type of PET imaging identifies primary and metastatic prostate cancer

A new gallium-68 labeled peptide BBN-RGD agent has been developed to target both gastrin-releasing peptide receptor and integrin αvβ3, providing dual-receptor targeting and advantages over single-receptor targeting. The agent has shown safety and effectiveness in detecting primary and metastatic prostate cancer lesions.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2017

How to stop pain from serious burns using epigenetics

Researchers have discovered a new epigenetic marker, pS10H3, that regulates pain processing in the spinal cord. Blocking this marker may lead to new pain relief therapies for burn victims.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2017

Ozone watch

The 2016 Quadrennial Ozone Symposium presented findings on trends of ozone in the stratosphere and troposphere. Emerging techniques for ozone observations were also discussed, as well as effects of ozone on human health and ecosystems.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Eating the placenta after childbirth -- researchers explore perceptions of health benefits and risks

A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that most healthcare providers and patients are unaware of the potential benefits and risks of consuming placenta after childbirth. Women who reported a history of mental health disorders were more likely to consider trying placentophagy.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2017

New treatment regimen extends life for some men with recurrent prostate cancer, study finds

A new treatment regimen combining hormonal therapy with radiation treatment significantly improves the average long-term survival of men with recurrent prostate cancer who have had their prostate gland removed. The study found that this regimen also reduces the frequency of spread of the cancer, improving patient outcomes.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2017