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Science News Archive February 2017 - Page 6


Page 6 of 37

Many stroke patients do not receive life-saving therapy

A study found that minority groups, women, and residents of the 'Stroke Belt' are less likely to receive tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) treatment for ischemic stroke. Despite efforts to increase access, disparities persist in healthcare delivery.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 23, 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.

Drugs similar to aspirin, ibuprofen could help treat sepsis, study suggests

Researchers found that a subgroup of NSAIDs also act strongly on another family of enzymes called caspases, which play a key role in aggressive immune responses like sepsis. The study suggests that these drugs could be repurposed to address other conditions and develop safer versions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateFeb 23, 2017

Kidney damage diagnosis may be inaccurate for many, suggests study

Researchers found that an initial diagnosis of acute kidney injury may have been inaccurate for many patients, as the current method of assessing kidney function may be misleading during the initial evaluation. The study identified sets of biomarkers in mouse models that could potentially detect kidney damage more reliably.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 23, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Neanderthal DNA contributes to human gene expression

Researchers found that Neanderthal DNA sequences still influence human gene expression, contributing to traits such as height and susceptibility to schizophrenia or lupus. The study used the Genotype-Tissue Expression Project dataset and analyzed RNA sequences in 52 different tissues.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateFeb 23, 2017

Meditation benefits patients with ALS

A clinical trial of 100 patients with ALS found that an eight-week mindfulness-based meditation program improved quality of life and reduced anxiety and depression. The results remained stable over a 12-month follow-up, suggesting a potential tool for increasing well-being in ALS patients.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Neurology·DateFeb 23, 2017

Dating the undatables

Scientists used DNA sequences to determine the evolutionary history of Asian Horned Frogs, discovering many new species and reestimating their family's age. The results suggest that scientists may have overestimated the age of many frog families by up to 35%.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 23, 2017

Mayo Clinic researchers discover link between aging, devastating lung disease

Researchers found that markers of cellular senescence were higher in individuals with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and senescent cell burden increased with the progression of the disease. The findings suggest targeting senescent cells could be a viable treatment option for individuals suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

New gene sequencing software could aid in early detection, treatment of cancer

Researchers have developed a new computational software to determine the presence of epigenetic add-ons linked to cancer and other health conditions. The software uses nanopore sequencing technology to detect cytosine methylation in DNA, which can affect gene expression and play a role in diseases such as cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 23, 2017

UC researchers teach drones to land themselves on moving targets

UC researchers successfully employed fuzzy logic in a simulation to show it is an ideal system for navigating under dynamic conditions. The concept, also known as genetic-fuzzy, allows drones to make good navigational decisions amid statistical noise and has real-world applications such as autonomous delivery.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateFeb 23, 2017

Children more vulnerable to psychological problems after a stroke

Research found that children with ischemic strokes exhibit notably greater mood, anxiety, somatic, oppositional defiance, and conduct problems compared to those without a stroke. Younger children who suffered strokes at ages under six had higher anxiety levels, possibly due to changes in family dynamics.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 23, 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.

Vast luminous nebula poses a cosmic mystery

Astronomers have found a massive, luminous nebula at the heart of a 'rotocluster' of early galaxies, which appears to be part of the cosmic web connecting galaxies. The newly discovered nebula, MAMMOTH-1, is thought to be powered by a hidden active galactic nucleus (AGN) that is strongly obscured by dust.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateFeb 23, 2017

Impossible (but working!) recipe for ultrashort laser pulses

Researchers from Warsaw Laser Centre generate high-energy ultrashort laser pulses in an optical fiber using a novel solution. The new method is stable and ideal for industrial applications, offering improved processing times.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalOptics Letters·DateFeb 23, 2017

Removing barriers to early intervention for autistic children: A new model shows promise

In South Carolina, a two-tiered screening process identified children with autism spectrum disorder eligible for early intensive behavioral therapy, leading to a significant increase in treatment. This policy change demonstrates the importance of early intervention in improving social interaction and communication among children with ASD.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 23, 2017

Is back pain killing us?

Research at the University of Sydney found that back pain is linked to a 13% increased risk of death in older Australians. The study controlled for shared genetic factors and suggests that spinal pain may be part of a pattern of poor health, increasing mortality risk.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalEuropean Journal of Pain·DateFeb 23, 2017

Gambling adverts on TV can 'mislead' football fans

A University of Stirling study found that televised gambling adverts during English Premier League matches often promoted complex and highly specific bets, misleading football fans. The research suggests that these types of bets are difficult to accurately predict, leading to significant average losses.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalAddiction Research & Theory·DateFeb 23, 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.

Bored by physical therapy? Focus on citizen science instead

Patients with repetitive rehabilitative exercises can contribute to scientific projects while performing engaging physical exercises using low-cost haptic devices. The study increases commitment and effectiveness of the exercises through natural user interfaces.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 23, 2017

Computing with biochemical circuits made easy

A team of researchers at Caltech has developed a software tool called Seesaw Compiler that allows users to design and build DNA circuits with ease. The tool uses a systematic wet-lab procedure to guide researchers through the process, making it accessible to novices like undergraduate students.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

Researchers find new clues for nuclear waste cleanup

A Washington State University study has improved understanding of challenging nuclear waste by analyzing the chemistry of technetium-99. The research could lead to better cleanup methods, particularly addressing difficult plutonium byproducts.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateFeb 23, 2017

New polymer additive could revolutionize plastics recycling

A new multiblock polymer has been developed that can combine polyethylene and polypropylene, two materials that have different chemical structures and cannot be repurposed together. When added in small measure to a mix of the two materials, the resulting material shows superior mechanical properties.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateFeb 23, 2017

Experts seek to jump-start vaccine development

A new article recommends establishing an institute focused on developing vaccines of public health importance without commercial interest. The proposed institute will require collaboration among stakeholders from industry, government, academia, and private foundations.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 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.

People with epilepsy: Tell us about rare risk of death

A preliminary study found that people with epilepsy are unaware of the rare but fatal complication known as Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), which affects 1 in 1,000 adults. The study suggests that providing information about SUDEP can motivate patients to take better care of themselves and adhere to their medication.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 23, 2017

Top professional performance through psychopathy

A recent study suggests that people with psychopathic traits, particularly fearless dominance, can exhibit exceptional work performance when educated and socialized properly. This challenges the common perception of psychopathy as solely negative, highlighting its paradoxical nature.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateFeb 23, 2017

Study reveals proven ways to improve doctor-patient communication

A hospital-wide training program improved doctors' communication with patients, leading to a 9% increase in patients' perceptions of care. The program outlined standardized best practices for doctors to follow, including basic courtesies and scripted questions.

SourceSAGE·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateFeb 23, 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.

Melting polar ice, rising sea levels not only climate change dangers

A recent study by Dr. Kirk Winemiller and his Brazilian colleagues analyzed a long-term database of fish survey statistics and hydrology in the central Amazon. The research reveals that climate change is causing alterations in regional precipitation, affecting water quantity and quality and leading to changes in fish species populations.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 23, 2017

Scientists close in on cracking 'Enigma Code' of common cold

Researchers at the University of York and others have cracked the 'Enigma Code' of the common cold virus by identifying a hidden decoding mechanism. The study suggests that a single drug could target all strains of the virus, offering a potential cure for conditions like polio and hand foot and mouth disease.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2017

Patients registered in a heart failure registry lived longer

A Swedish study found that patients registered in the Swedish Heart Failure Registry had a remarkable 35% lower risk of death compared to unregistered patients. This improvement is attributed to better medication and quality care, with registered patients more likely to receive essential heart failure medications.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·DateFeb 23, 2017

Study finds resistant infections rising, with longer hospital stays for US children

A new study published in the Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society found that resistant infections caused by bacteria from the Enterobacteriaceae family are increasing in U.S. children, associated with longer hospital stays and a trend towards greater risk of death.

SourcePediatric Infectious Diseases Society·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateFeb 23, 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.

Adolescent sleepiness may contribute to future crimes

A recent study links adolescent sleepiness to future crime rates, with sleepy teens more likely to commit crimes by age 29. The study suggests that poor daytime attention and social adversity may contribute to the relationship between sleepiness and crime.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateFeb 23, 2017

Scientists present El Nino

Researchers from NSF's LTER Network will present on the effects of the 2015-16 El Nino, including its impact on aquatic ecosystems and species. The presentations will also explore the long-term implications of environmental changes and the importance of data in understanding future responses.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateFeb 23, 2017

Nematode resistance in soybeans beneficial even at low rates of infestation

Researchers found that resistant soybean varieties yield more than susceptible ones even at low SCN infestation levels, with a yield advantage seen in environments with no SCN infestation. Despite mounting pressure from nematodes, varieties with PI 88788-resistance still provide moderate resistance and produce good yields.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCrop Science·DateFeb 23, 2017

Researchers pave the way for ionotronic nanodevices

Researchers at Aalto University have visualized the effect of oxygen ion migration on complex oxide materials, leading to uniform and reversible changes in electrical resistance. This finding could pave the way for the development of resistance-switching random access memories.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

Flat-footed competitors have fighting advantage

A new study published in Biology Open found that the heel-down posture of great apes, including humans, provides a fighting advantage due to increased swinging force when standing with heels planted. This stance allows for stronger blows and more striking force compared to digitigrade stances used by other species.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalBiology Open·DateFeb 23, 2017

English learners treated differently depending on where they go to school

New research reveals significant variations in how English learners are reclassified in Texas schools, impacting their educational trajectory. The study found differences in assessment data, technology incorporation, and educator understanding, leading to disparate outcomes for students.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateFeb 23, 2017

NASA eyes Pineapple Express soaking California

NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission has estimated significant rainfall from the Pineapple Express in southwestern Oregon and northern California. The storms brought heavy rains, with parts of Arizona receiving moderate to heavy precipitation as well.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 23, 2017

Modified Atkins diet helps children with rare form of epilepsy

The modified Atkins diet has been shown to reduce seizure frequency in children with Doose syndrome by at least 50%. In a recent study, 83% of children experienced this significant reduction, making it an effective treatment option for families affected by this rare form of epilepsy.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateFeb 23, 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.

Broad cancer vaccine may be out of reach

Research published in Genome Medicine found that a broad cancer vaccine targeting multiple neo-antigens could only be effective for less than 0.3% of the population, based on analysis of over 60,000 unique tumors.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2017

Global vaccine injury system needed to improve public health

A global vaccine injury compensation system would improve vaccine participation in low-resource countries, addressing hesitancy and economic concerns. The proposed system would provide economic certainty to manufacturers and build trust for vaccines, ultimately improving public health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 23, 2017

A new dimension in chemical nanoimaging

Researchers developed hyperspectral infrared nanoimaging, enabling recording of two-dimensional arrays of nano-FTIR spectra in a few hours. This technique allows for nanoscale-resolved chemical and structural information extraction, revealing spatial distribution and spectral anomalies of individual components.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

Gene mutations cause leukemia, but which ones?

The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute research team discovered a previously unreported flaw in the standard leukemia assay, which can lead to non-functional mutations appearing functional. They recommend an additional sequencing step to improve the assay's accuracy and reproducibility.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateFeb 23, 2017

Some neurons choose mom's gene and others choose dad's

Research reveals that individual neurons or specific types of neurons can silence genes from one parent or the other, particularly during brain development. As the brain matures, these differences tend to decrease, but some genes continue to exhibit differential expression in adult brains.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 23, 2017

Fructose is generated in the human brain

Researchers at Yale University have discovered that fructose is converted in the human brain from glucose, raising questions about its effects on eating behavior. The finding highlights the need to reevaluate the impact of fructose on chronic diseases.

SourceYale University·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 23, 2017

Study reveals PGK1 enzyme as therapeutic target for deadliest brain cancer

Researchers at University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center discover PGK1's dual role in regulating cell metabolism and autophagy, a cellular process crucial to tumor development and maintenance. The findings suggest that inhibiting PGK1-regulated autophagy may increase cancer treatment efficacy for glioblastoma patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 23, 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.

Understanding the impact of delays in high-speed networks

Intentional microsecond delays were introduced into the US's fastest financial network, resulting in significant trading behavior changes. Policy-makers are seeking to better understand these effects before widespread adoption.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 23, 2017

Gene-edited pigs show signs of resistance to major viral disease

Scientists have produced gene-edited pigs with a modified CD163 gene, showing complete resistance to infection with both major subtypes of the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus. The change is introduced using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and should not affect their ability to fight off other infections.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 23, 2017