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Science News Archive June 2017


Page 2 of 40

Pain neuron may protect fungal inflammation and bone destruction

Researchers discovered that pain neurons produce CGRP, a neuropeptide that inhibits osteoclast and cytokine production, to suppress fungal inflammation. The study found that Jdp2 transcription factor is necessary for this immunosuppression and that pain neurons are more potent at producing CGRP in response to β-glucan than LPS.

Scientists investigate link between air pollution and type 2 diabetes

Research from the University of Leicester and EarthSense reveals associations between air pollution and type 2 diabetes in a large cross-sectional study. Demographic factors largely explained the association, but the study suggests continued research into potential long-term exposure factors.

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.

New insights into why the immune system fails to see cancer

A team of investigators discovered a genetic program that some cancers use to cloak themselves from the immune system, affecting detection and treatment outcomes. The research highlights potential new immunotherapy targets and biomarkers for cancer survival.

Car seat laws for older kids have limited impact

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that car seat laws for older kids have a limited effect on compliance rates. Despite increased fines, the same number of kids remain unrestrained. The study suggests that education and access to safety seats might be more effective in improving road safety.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mitochondria-targeted antioxidant SkQ1 helps to treat diabetic wounds

Researchers have found that SkQ1, a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, significantly enhances wound healing in a mouse model of diabetes mellitus type II. The study improves wound epithelization, granulation tissue formation, and vascularization, restoring disturbed blood circulation.

Surprisingly exact timing of voluntary movements

A new study reveals that people are capable of controlling the exact timing of their blinking, a movement previously thought to be automated. This discovery challenges previous assumptions and highlights the importance of the cerebral cortex in controlling movements at will.

Osaka University researchers push metals to their limits

Researchers at Osaka University have created a novel metal alloy by adding two metals to generate a unique cross-lamellar microstructure, significantly improving its mechanical performance. The new alloy shows excellent high-temperature strength and could lead to efficiency gains in gas turbines and jet engines.

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.

Genetic 'fossils' reveal long-term viral partnerships in grass

Defective viruses in grass genomes form partnerships with other viruses to compensate for functional deficiencies, resulting in concerted evolution of noncoding regulatory sequences. This partnership enables the development and maintenance of relationships over time.

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.

NASA observes Tropical Storm Dora dissipating rapidly

NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission tracked Dora's transformation from moderate rainfall to barely any, revealing a rapid dissipation process. The storm's convection was absent in most of its southeastern side, and its low-level center exposed to outside winds

Depression linked to physical health decline in cancer caregivers

Cancer caregivers experience a steady decline in physical health compared to controls, with symptoms of depression being the only significant predictor. The study suggests that early assessment and addressing depressive symptoms may help prevent premature health decline among this vulnerable population.

Human activities worsen air quality in Dunhuang, a desert basin in China

Air quality has deteriorated in Dunhuang due to increased human activities, shifting from dust aerosol alone to a mixture of coarse and fine particles. Seasonal characteristics show significant variations in aerosol optical properties, with dust aerosols dominating during spring and fine urban aerosols during summer.

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.

Cancer researchers overestimate reproducibility of preclinical studies

A survey of experts and novices found that cancer scientists overestimated the replicability of high-profile preclinical studies. In reality, none of the six completed studies by the Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology reproduced the original results. Training might help overcome cognitive biases in interpreting scientific reports.

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.

Serious pain afflicts a third of nursing home residents in last 6 months of life

A significant proportion of nursing home residents suffer from chronic pain during their final six months, according to a recent study. Researchers analyzed data from over 960 seniors and found that 60% reported consistent low or mild pain, while around 34% experienced moderate or severe pain, with little improvement as death approached.

Dialysis membrane made from graphene filters more quickly

MIT engineers have developed a functional graphene-based dialysis membrane that filters nanometer-sized molecules at an unprecedented rate. The membrane, made from a single layer of carbon atoms, separates molecules quickly due to its exceptional diffusion properties.

New technique enables safer gene-editing therapy using CRISPR

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a technique that can spot editing mistakes made by CRISPR, allowing for more precise gene therapies. The method involves rapidly testing a CRISPR molecule across a person's entire genome to foresee potential interactions.

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.

Catheters linked to most bloodstream infections in dialysis patients

A recent analysis of US dialysis facility data found that central venous catheters are associated with the most bloodstream infections in hemodialysis patients. Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly isolated pathogen, with 40% of isolates resistant to antibiotic methicillin.

Global forest network cracks the case of tropical biodiversity

Researchers found that self-suppression is stronger in tropical forests and changes systematically with latitude, contributing to the biodiversity gradient. The Janzen-Connell hypothesis proposes that host-specific natural enemies suppress locally common species, giving rare species space to flourish.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Oceans are warming rapidly, study says

A new study analyzing multiple ocean datasets reveals that the oceans are robustly warming, regardless of data used. The heat redistribution among global oceans experienced a significant shift over several decades.

Elephantiasis on the decline in Cameroon

Mass drug administration campaigns in Cameroon have successfully reduced lymphatic filariasis rates, with only 0.13%, 0.57%, and 0.45% of children infected in three evaluation units. The WHO's elimination strategy is on track, but post-mass drug administration surveillance is necessary to ensure disease transmission does not resume.

The sharpest laser in the world

Researchers from PTB and JILA develop a laser with an unprecedented 10 mHz linewidth, setting a new world record. The precision of the laser allows for accurate measurements in optical atomic clocks and spectroscopy.

Possible early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder

A study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation found that measuring two proteins in the blood can accurately diagnose autism spectrum disorder in approximately 75% of children. The diagnostic accuracy increases to 82% when both proteins are measured together.

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.

Immersive journalism in a post-truth world

The rise of immersive journalism poses challenges to traditional journalistic principles, as it offers a personal experience that can be subjective and relativistic. However, when used thoughtfully, immersion can enhance the narrative and create a powerful emotional impact.

Test identifies breast cancer patients with lowest risk of death

A new clinical study led by UC San Francisco has identified a molecular test that can pinpoint breast cancer patients with the lowest risk of death, even 20 years after diagnosis. The test, called MammaPrint®, can accurately identify ultralow-risk tumors, which are associated with an excellent prognosis and minimal toxic effects.

Social status of listener alters our voice

A study by the University of Stirling found that people change their voice pitch depending on who they are talking to and how dominant they feel. Individuals tend to use a higher pitch when talking to high-status people, signaling submissiveness and avoiding confrontation.

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.

University of Surrey's research reveals secrets of success of tourism entrepreneurs

The University of Surrey's research has identified key characteristics and approaches that successful tourism entrepreneurs use to overcome barriers. They emphasize the importance of being dynamic, market-driven, and willing to experiment with new ideas. The study found that entrepreneurs often rely on creative strategies such as runni...

For some US counties, climate change will be particularly costly

A new study by AAAS predicts climate change will have a devastating impact on certain US counties, with losses exceeding 20% of gross county product in some areas. Southern and midwestern populations are projected to suffer the largest economic damage due to increased cyclone intensification and sea level rise.

Acoustic scientist sounds off about the location of cave paintings

A systematic acoustic study is proposed by David Lubman to investigate the potential relationship between the location of Paleolithic cave paintings and points of reverberation in caves. The study aims to determine whether there is a correlation between the placement of paintings and areas with good acoustics.

Biomechanical acoustics study sheds light on running injuries

Researchers investigated how runners adapt their running patterns to cope with shock-induced vibrations. Preliminary results suggest that the human body adjusts to stabilize energetics and protect the upper body, regardless of speed. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop strategies to prevent running injuries.

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.

Bullying and bias can cost schools millions in lost funding

New research highlights the economic impact of bullying on schools, with 10.4% of students missing school due to feeling unsafe and up to $276 million in lost revenue each year in California public schools. Schools can take steps to create a safe environment through professional anti-bullying training and decreasing racism.

Researchers refute textbook knowledge in molecular interactions

Researchers at the University of Luxembourg have redefined the understanding of van der Waals interactions, discovering they can be repulsive in confined spaces. This new paradigm could have implications for pharmaceutical delivery, water desalination and photovoltaic devices.

Cocoa and chocolate are not just treats -- they are good for your cognition

Italian researchers found that cocoa flavanols can enhance working memory and visual information processing, and even counteract cognitive impairment in women after sleep deprivation. Long-term ingestion of cocoa flavanols improved cognitive performance in elderly individuals with starting memory decline or mild cognitive impairments.

New study examines effectiveness of labor induction in India

A new study published in The Lancet found that oral misoprostol tablets were more effective than Foley catheter induction in reducing need for caesarean section and increasing vaginal birth rates. Women who received oral misoprostol tablets also reported higher satisfaction rates with the outcome.

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.

Promising new therapeutic approach for debilitating bone disease

Researchers have demonstrated a new therapeutic approach that can re-build and strengthen bone, offering hope for individuals with the debilitating bone cancer, multiple myeloma. The treatment targets a protein called sclerostin, which halts bone formation, and found to double bone volume in some mice.

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.

Research suggests association between gut bacteria and emotion

Researchers identified distinct gut microbiota profiles associated with altered brain activity and emotional responses in healthy women. The Bacteroides group showed increased gray matter and hippocampal volume, while the Prevotella group exhibited reduced brain volumes and heightened negative emotions.

Why does acupuncture work?

A recent study from LA BioMed researchers found that the proper use of acupuncture can lead to elevated levels of nitric oxide in the skin at acupoints, increasing blood flow and analgesic release. The study suggests that this method may contribute to the pain-relieving effects of acupuncture.

Eighty-five percent of Spanish children eat too much salt

A study by Complutense University of Madrid found that 85% of Spanish schoolchildren eat too much salt, with an average daily intake of 7.8g. The experts recommend reducing salt intake from young age, particularly from processed foods like cured meats and bread.

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.