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Science News for June 16, 2017


New relapse prediction tool reduces cost of rheumatoid arthritis treatment

A new relapse prediction tool has been developed to reduce the cost of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. The tool, which combines two measurements to predict the risk of relapse in patients with RA, allows for successful dose reduction of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), resulting in significant cost savings.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 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.

Education a top priority

A public opinion survey conducted across eight Western European countries found that 80% of respondents support increasing spending on education, while only 20% back defense policy. Respondents prioritize general school education and vocational training, with 62% demanding more funding in these sectors.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of European Social Policy·DateJun 16, 2017

New approach improves ability to predict metals' reactions with water

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new computational method to predict metal reactions with water, enabling faster and more accurate predictions of corrosion. The method combines two techniques and can be applied to various applications, including bridge design and aircraft engine development.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2017

Quality of early family relationships predicts children's affect regulation

This longitudinal study found that early family relationships significantly impact children's emotional development, particularly in terms of emotion regulation. Problematic family types were associated with increased depressive symptoms and biases in social-emotional information processing. The study suggests that strengthening emotio...

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateJun 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.

Education for people with RMDS and employers can improve ability to work

An educational programme implemented by the Galician Rheumatology League improved employees' self-confidence in their work capacity and awareness of solvable limitations. The programme also helped employers understand specific needs of people with RMDs, making necessary adaptations to keep them at work.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017

Why is one twin smaller than the other? Answer could lie in the placenta

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found a correlation between slower placental oxygen transport and lower newborn birth weights, brain, and liver volumes. Researchers used MRI to map oxygen delivery across the placenta in real-time, revealing differences in regional function that can predict fetal growth.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 16, 2017

Genes explain higher prevalence of CVD in chronic IMID patients

A study found that chronic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are linked to a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease in patients. The research identified specific genetic patterns associated with cardiovascular disease risk across different chronic IMID patient groups, which could lead to the development of more efficient preve...

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017

Faster performance evaluation of 'super graphs'

Researchers have developed a new computer model that generates synthetic data for simulating real-world applications using giant graphs. The model, TrillionG, is faster and uses less resources than existing methods, making it ideal for testing giant graph algorithms and systems.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·DateJun 16, 2017

New medication guidelines for rheumatic disease patients having joint replacement

The American College of Rheumatology and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons developed guidelines to manage anti-rheumatic medication in patients with joint replacement. The recommendations prioritize preventing infection over potential disease flares, and aim to lower the risk of complications.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 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.

Biologists have explored how testate amoebae survive in peat fires

A research team from China University of Geosciences and Lomonosov Moscow State University studied the impact of wildfire on testate amoebae. They found that fire led to significant changes in the structure of testate amoeba communities, with some microorganisms surviving while others died.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalApplied Soil Ecology·DateJun 16, 2017

Bacteria free themselves with molecular 'speargun'

Researchers discovered that the pathogen Francisella tularensis uses a nano-machine called type VI secretion system (T6SS) to disrupt digestive vesicles and escape into the cytosol, allowing it to rapidly replicate. This efficient defense mechanism is crucial for the bacterium's success in an infection.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 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.

Skin disease caused by sperm cell transmission of keratin mutation

Researchers at Nagoya University identified a mosaic skin disease caused by sperm cell transmission of keratin mutation. The mutation was found to be identical in the affected daughter and her father, confirming germline transmission. Genetic counseling is crucial for predicting disease risk in future children.

SourceNagoya University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJun 16, 2017

Distant brain regions selectively recruit stem cells

Researchers have found that brain regions can target specific pools of stem cells in the subventricular zone, stimulating them to divide and produce particular types of olfactory bulb neurons. This allows for the on-demand generation of specific neuron subtypes in the adult brain.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience·DateJun 16, 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.

Nickel for thought: Compound shows potential for high-temperature superconductivity

A team of researchers at Argonne National Laboratory has identified a nickel oxide compound with promising properties for high-temperature superconductivity. The compound, a metallic trilayer nickelate, successfully synthesized single crystals that resemble cuprate materials, a crucial step towards solving the field's defining problem.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 16, 2017

Genes and the environment? Factors, patterns that lead to childhood obesity risk

Researchers identify a three-way interaction between genetics, body mass index, and parent-child communication patterns in predicting restrictive feeding practices that contribute to childhood obesity. Genetic variations affect emotion regulation, influencing parents' responses to children's negative emotions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateJun 16, 2017

Obamacare key to improving access in Mexican-American patients with hypertension

A Drexel University study finds that Obamacare has narrowed the gap in care between Mexican-Americans and white Americans with high blood pressure, increasing insurance rates, doctor visits, and regular sources of care. The Affordable Care Act also improved treatment outcomes for Mexican-heritage patients with hypertension.

SourceDrexel University·JournalMedical Care·DateJun 16, 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.

Chinese urbanization 2050: SD modeling and process simulation

A Chinese research team proposes a multi-dimensional system dynamic (SD) simulation model to understand China's urbanization process. The model provides a comprehensive view of the mechanism constrained by environmental sustainability, with an ultimate urbanization level predicted in multiple scenarios.

SourceScience China Press·DateJun 16, 2017

Shaking Schroedinger's cat

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered that quasimeasurements, a new type of measurement interaction, cause the quantum Zeno effect and anti-Zeno effect. The disturbance from these measurements shifts the energy levels of the atom, leading to faster or slower decay rates.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 16, 2017

New international honor for professor Rajeshwar Dayal Tyagi

Professor Tyagi received the Outstanding Scientist Award from the International Bioprocessing Association for his outstanding contribution to environmental biotechnology. He has also earned numerous accolades, including awards from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateJun 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.

Study casts doubt about link between eczema, cardiovascular disease

A new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that adults with atopic dermatitis were not at increased risk for cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, heart attacks, or strokes. The research suggests that eczema is likely not positively associated with cardiovascular disease.

SourceBrown University·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateJun 16, 2017

New approach to unlock the genetic potential of plant cell wall

The study provides detailed information about the genetics of crop plants, enabling breeders to identify key genes responsible for cell wall properties. By linking this data to specific changes in genetic information, researchers can make targeted improvements to support agricultural industries and biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2017

Antibiotics promote resistance on experimental croplands

Researchers have generated both novel and existing antibiotic resistance mechanisms in soil exposed to specific antibiotics. The study found 36 antibiotic resistance genes, including some multi-drug efflux pumps that pump antibiotics out of bacteria.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJun 16, 2017

MAVEN's top 10 discoveries at Mars

MAVEN has made several groundbreaking discoveries about the Martian upper atmosphere, including unexpected exchanges of gas between lower and upper atmosphere layers. The mission has also revealed complex interactions between solar wind and planet, resulting in the loss of atmospheric gas to space.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 16, 2017
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.

Radon increases risk for malignant skin cancer

New research from Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute finds that radon increases the risk of developing malignant skin cancer, with a 50% increase in risk for 30-year-olds. The study highlights the importance of reducing residential radon exposure through appropriate house construction.

SourceSwiss Tropical and Public Health Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJun 16, 2017

Viral vectors for gene transfer travel longer distances in the brain than thought

Researchers found that artificial viruses can infect brain cells and surrounding tissues beyond the injection site, influencing the immune response. The study's findings could improve the selection of suitable viral 'gene transporters' for custom therapies, offering a glimmer of hope for patients with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalHistochemistry and Cell Biology·DateJun 16, 2017

New effective treatments for psoriatic arthritis patients

Two new drug classes, tofacitinib and guselkumab, have shown significant improvements in treating psoriatic arthritis. Tofacitinib demonstrated superiority over placebo in ACR20 response rates and HAQ-DI score at 3 months, while guselkumab improved joint symptoms, physical function, and quality of life in patients with active PsA.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017

Mathematicians deliver formal proof of Kepler Conjecture

A team led by Thomas Hales has delivered a formal proof of the Kepler Conjecture, resolving a centuries-old mathematical problem. The proof uses computer verification to establish certainty, addressing the community's inability to thoroughly verify previous attempts.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalForum of Mathematics Pi·DateJun 16, 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.

Scientists solve 30-year old mystery on how resistance genes spread

Researchers at Technical University of Denmark discover that resistance genes originate from the same group as antibiotics, Actinobacteria. The study reveals a new mechanism called 'carry back', where pathogens acquire genes through a primitive form of bacterial sex.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 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.

Researchers use light to manipulate mosquitoes

Exposure to just 10 minutes of light at night suppresses biting behavior and manipulates flight in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. The study suggests pulses of light could be an effective tool to complement established control methods for reducing disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateJun 16, 2017

Among farmworkers, immigrants are less likely to use SNAP

A new study from UC Davis researchers found that immigrant farmworkers are less likely to use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) compared to their US-born counterparts. The analysis of comprehensive data on farmworker households showed a significant increase in SNAP participation among citizens, while immigrants and H...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateJun 16, 2017

Investigating emotional spillover in the brain

A study published in Psychological Science found that inhibiting the lateral prefrontal cortex using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) increases emotional spillover, while preserving its integrity eliminates it. The research suggests a causal relationship between the prefrontal cortex and emotion regulation.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 16, 2017

Gout hospitalization exacerbated by failure to prescribe recommended urate-lowering treatment

A Swedish study found a significant increase in gout hospitalizations between 2000 and 2012, with only one-fourth of patients receiving recommended urate-lowering treatment. In contrast, a UK study showed that nurse-provided patient education and support significantly improved adherence to ULT, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 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.