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Science News Archive June 2017 - Page 16


Page 16 of 40

Screening for obesity in children and adolescents recommended

The USPSTF recommends screening for obesity in children and adolescents 6 years old and older, offering comprehensive behavioral interventions to promote weight improvements. This recommendation is based on moderate certainty, as screening can lead to small harms but also improve weight status with moderate net benefits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 2017

How six cups of ground coffee can improve nose, throat surgery

A team of engineers at Vanderbilt University has designed a novel solution to improve the accuracy of navigation systems used in delicate nose and throat surgeries. By using a thin layer of coffee grounds inside a stretchy silicone headpiece, they aim to reduce targeting errors caused by skin movement and accidental bumps.

SourceVanderbilt University·DateJun 20, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

To work or not to work: Moms' well being rests on what she wants

Among well-educated mothers, those who pursued their desired lifestyle experienced overall positive adjustment, while those who were 'misaligned' faced considerable distress and unhappiness. Feeling emotionally supported, unconditional acceptance, and satisfying friendships are key to promoting life satisfaction and mitigating loneliness.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateJun 20, 2017

Getting the biggest bang out of plasma jets

A new study by Huazhong University of Science and Technology finds that maximizing energy density within the capillary chamber yields the longest plasma jet. Varying capillary dimensions, cathode diameter, and cathode tip length are key factors in achieving optimal performance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJun 20, 2017

Fighting a destructive crop disease with mathematics

Researchers used mathematical modelling to understand new ways of combating maize lethal necrosis, an emerging disease affecting food security in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found that a combination of crop rotation, clean seed, and insect control is the best way to prevent loss of maize crop.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhytopathology·DateJun 20, 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.

Radiologists seek greater involvement in patient care

A survey of radiologists found that while they agree on the importance of patient-centered care, current practices are hindered by time and workload constraints. Social media and integrating reading rooms into clinics offer opportunities for better communication with patients.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 20, 2017

No evidence of gender bias in philosophy

A recent study by Sean Allen-Hermanson found no significant evidence of gender bias against women in philosophy departments. Despite a male-dominated field, women secured tenure-track positions at rates comparable to men. Increasing diversity is crucial for the discipline.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

New report looks at integrating frailty research into care as we age

A new report advances the integration of frailty research into care as we age, highlighting its importance in managing conditions like heart failure and HIV. The study aims to improve quality of life and guide healthcare decision-making for older adults.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 20, 2017

Researchers call for paradigm shift in type 2 diabetes treatment

Recent clinical trials suggest using medications that control blood glucose while reducing cardiovascular risk can improve patient outcomes. This approach may be more effective than current treatments, which prioritize blood sugar maintenance alone.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 2017

People who go to bed late have less control over OCD symptoms

Researchers at Binghamton University found that individuals who go to bed late have lower perceived control over obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Participants in a one-week sleep study completed daily ratings of their ability to control their symptoms, with those who went to bed later showing significant decrements in control.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJun 20, 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.

Students of all races feel safer in ethnically diverse middle schools, UCLA study says

Middle school students from diverse backgrounds report feeling safer and less lonely in ethnically diverse classrooms. Researchers found that students in diverse schools showed more tolerance and less prejudice towards peers of other ethnicities. The study highlights the benefits of diversity on personal and social well-being.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2017

Wave beams mix and stir the ocean to create climate

Researchers propose a new theory on how waves mix and stir the ocean, bringing cold water to the surface. The study explains how internal waves direct themselves based on topography, shedding light on climate-dependent ocean circulation patterns.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 20, 2017

Tennis cheats may be predicted by their moral standards

Researchers found a connection between certain moral values and the acceptance of cheating behavior in tennis matches. Players who prioritize ego and status over self-improvement tend to condone cheating. The study suggests that promoting personal success and achievement can help decrease the risk of antisocial behavior in sport.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Is more digital support needed for young cancer patients?

A survey of 102 young cancer patients aged 13-24 found that digital resources could enhance their experience and engagement. The study's lead author believes digital support resources can address unmet needs and improve patient outcomes.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateJun 20, 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.

Older dads have 'geekier' sons

A new study suggests that children of older fathers are more intelligent and focused on their interests, with better educational and career prospects. The researchers found that 'geekier' children tend to perform better in school exams, particularly in STEM subjects.

SourceKing's College London·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJun 20, 2017

Star's birth may have triggered another star birth, astronomers say

Astronomers found new evidence suggesting that a jet of material ejected from one young star triggered the formation of another protostar. The younger star, HOPS 108, lies in the path of an outflow from the older star, HOPS 370. New measurements support the idea that the older star's outflow led to the younger's star formation process.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateJun 20, 2017

Students of all races & ethnicities benefit from ethnically diverse middle schools

A new study found that students in ethnically diverse middle schools report better self-reported well-being and views on race, particularly when exposed to different ethnic groups in their academic classes. The researchers emphasized the importance of class placement to reap the social benefits of school diversity.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2017

First randomized controlled trial of DBS for chronic pain shows promise

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic conducted the first randomized controlled trial of DBS for neuropathic pain, targeting brain structures related to emotion and behavior. The study showed significant improvements in indices of depression, anxiety, and quality of life, suggesting a potential shift away from analgesia-based treatments.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJun 20, 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.

Mathematical biology tackles destructive plant virus

Researchers used mathematical modeling to understand maize lethal necrosis, a devastating plant disease in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found that rotating crops and controlling insects can provide effective disease control, but limited control is achievable by resource-poor farmers.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalPhytopathology·DateJun 20, 2017

Predicting cognitive deficits in people with Parkinson's disease

A new research tool may predict a patient's risk for developing dementia in Parkinson's disease, enabling the design of 'smarter' trials that require fewer participating patients. The tool was built using data from 3,200 people with PD and evaluates seven known clinical and genetic risk factors.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJun 20, 2017

Wet and stormy weather lashed California coast... 8,200 years ago

A paleoclimate study found that California experienced exceptionally wet and stormy weather around 8,200 years ago, coinciding with a global climate anomaly. The researchers used stalagmite records to extract information about the prehistoric California atmosphere during this time.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 20, 2017

Buyer beware: Antimicrobial products can do more harm than good

Over 200 scientists and medical professionals issue a warning on the dangers of antimicrobial products, citing no health benefits and environmental harm. Experts urge caution in using these chemicals in everyday products, calling for alternatives to prevent unneeded exposures.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJun 20, 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.

Study finds most people aren't as happy as their friends on social media

A recent study by Indiana University found that people with the most connections on social media are also happier, but this does not translate to their own happiness. The study revealed that a majority of social media users have fewer friends on average than their friends and are less happy as well.

SourceIndiana University·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateJun 20, 2017

Task Force presents new ranking of colorectal cancer screening tests

The task force ranked tests into three tiers according to the strength of the recommendation for average-risk people. Colonoscopy is highly sensitive for cancer and precancerous lesions, while fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is non-invasive and lower-cost but must be repeated annually. The new guidelines also recommend starting scre...

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 20, 2017

Older people who feel close to God have well-being that grows with frequent prayer

A Baylor University study finds that frequent prayer among older adults with a secure attachment to God improves their sense of well-being, while those with an average or weak attachment may experience mixed results. For those who perceive God as distant or untrustworthy, prayer is not associated with improved mental health.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Aging and Health·DateJun 20, 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.

Lightweight steel production breakthrough: Brittle phases controlled

Researchers at WMG, University of Warwick have developed a new processing route to control brittle stages during steel production. This breakthrough allows for the creation of low-density steels with maximum strength and durability, making them suitable for safer, greener, more fuel-efficient cars.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalActa Materialia·DateJun 20, 2017

Positive engagement in preschool key to developmental gains

A new study found that children's individual engagement in preschool classrooms, including with teachers, peers, and tasks, is crucial to their learning and development. Positive engagement was linked to improved literacy skills, language, and self-regulatory skills, while negative engagement hindered school readiness.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2017

Shared decision-making is cornerstone of multiple sclerosis treatment

Shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers is essential for optimal MS treatment and quality of life. The process involves working together to select tests, treatments, and care plans, taking into account evidence-based treatments and lifestyle factors.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalPractical Neurology·DateJun 20, 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.

How a girl is raised can influence her adult sporting success

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that female footballers raised with non-traditional values and role models exhibit greater fighting spirit and pleasure in the game, leading to improved performance. This suggests that upbringing plays a significant role in shaping the desire to succeed in sports.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Selfish gene acts as both poison and antidote to eliminate competition

Researchers discovered a genetic survival strategy in fission yeast that uses a 'poison' to eliminate competition, but also keeps an 'antidote' for its own transmission. This mechanism, found in the wtf4 gene, can lead to infertility and has potential applications in eradicating pest populations or facilitating desirable traits.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·DateJun 20, 2017

Depressed patients more likely to be prescribed opioids

A new study reveals that individuals with low back pain who are also depressed are more likely to receive opioid prescriptions and higher doses. This finding sheds light on the current opioid epidemic and highlights the need for further research into prescribing patterns.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalPAIN Reports·DateJun 20, 2017

Hiding true self harms career and sense of belonging

A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that hiding one's true self at work can damage career prospects and reduce feelings of belonging. Concealing stigmatised characteristics such as LGBT identity or poverty history results in lower self-esteem, job satisfaction, and commitment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Social Issues·DateJun 20, 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.

Post-ICU glucose management may improve outcomes in critical patients

Research published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that critically ill patients with dysglycemia have higher mortality rates, and that a target glucose level of 80-140 mg/dL is associated with best prospects for survival. The study suggests that broader glucose control protocols from admission to discharge may improve survivability.

SourceStamford Health·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJun 20, 2017

Mountain lions fear humans, fleeing when they hear our voices, new study reveals

A new study reveals that mountain lions are afraid of humans and flee when they hear our voices. The findings show that pumas take longer to return to their kills after hearing people, reducing their feeding time by about half. This is significant as it can have implications for their well-being in human-dominated landscapes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateJun 20, 2017

New guideline aims to reduce infections in total hip & knee replacement patients

A new guideline aims to reduce joint infection risks from total hip and knee replacements by managing anti-rheumatic medications during perioperative process. The guideline provides recommendations for withholding certain medications, such as biologics and immunosuppressants, to minimize the risk of infection.

SourceAmerican College of Rheumatology·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 20, 2017

Steaming fish eliminates more cyanotoxins than boiling it

A study published in Food Control found that steaming freshwater fish for over two minutes significantly reduces the presence of cylindrospermopsin, a harmful cyanotoxin. Boiling, on the other hand, results in a smaller reduction, posing an increased risk to consumers.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalFood Control·DateJun 20, 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.

Exhausted immune cells linked to irritable bowel syndrome

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that T-cells in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) are exhausted, leading to reduced responsiveness and secretion of mediators. This finding may help distinguish between different types of IBS and improve diagnosis and treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGut·DateJun 20, 2017

Ancient skulls shed light on migration in the Roman empire

Researchers analyzed ancient Roman skulls using state-of-the-art forensic techniques to identify significant cranial differences between coastal communities. The findings suggest that the area around Velia had a large Greek population, influencing local physical characteristics.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Osteoarchaeology·DateJun 20, 2017

Bacterial superantigens turn our immune cells to the dark side

Researchers found that mucosa-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells can mount a rapid and robust inflammatory response to bacterial superantigens, contributing to severe organ damage or death. The overzealous response leads to exhaustion of MAIT cells, resulting in immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to secondary infections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 20, 2017

Finding the perfect match: A new approach to battle drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers have developed a rapid screening method to identify beneficial pairs of existing FDA-approved drugs to combat multi-drug resistant bacterial infections. The approach identified 14 drugs that could be paired synergistically, with the most promising pairing combining azidothymidine and floxuridine.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 20, 2017

Studies link nutrient, academic achievement in pre-adolescent children

Researchers found that children with higher lutein levels in the eye tended to perform better on tests of cognition and academic achievement. The studies, conducted at the University of Illinois, also suggested that lutein may play a role in brain development and overall brain health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNutritional Neuroscience·DateJun 20, 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.

Simple tactic results in dramatic water conservation, study shows

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University developed a simple, low-cost tactic to conserve water by providing people with more information about lawn watering. The 'Rain-watered Lawn' pilot program involved 627 households and showed a 61% decrease in lawn watering during rainy summer weeks.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateJun 20, 2017

Grape-based compounds kill colon cancer stem cells in mice

Researchers found that grape-based compounds resveratrol and grape seed extract effectively killed colon cancer cells and suppressed tumors in mice. The combination of these compounds was found to be non-toxic to healthy cells, making them a promising approach for colon cancer prevention and treatment.

SourcePenn State·JournalBMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateJun 19, 2017

Researchers find demographic differences in both diabetes rates and care sought

Researchers analyzed national health statistics to understand demographic differences in diabetes rates and care sought. The study found that people with lower income or lower educational levels had a higher prevalence of diabetes, with American Indians and Alaska Natives having the highest rates.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJun 19, 2017

DNA delivery technology joins battle against drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Tel Aviv University develop new DNA delivery technology to neutralize lethal activity of drug-resistant bacterial pathogens. The innovation expands the range of bacteriophages, enabling manipulation and potentially leading to the development of new drugs.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 19, 2017

Brain stimulation protocol reduces spasticity in spinal cord injury patients

Researchers developed a new brain stimulation protocol using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and excitatory intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), which showed significant benefits in reducing spasticity in spinal cord injury patients. The study found that improvements persisted even after the treatment ended.

SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·DateJun 19, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Unusual soybean coloration sheds a light on gene silencing

Researchers found that yellow soybeans result from naturally occurring gene silencing involving two genes, which blocks production of darker pigment's precursors. The study also identified the Argonaute5 gene responsible for saddle-patterned beans, shedding light on epistatic interactions in soybean genetics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJun 19, 2017

Could therapy animal visitation pose health risks at patient facilities?

A nationwide survey of hospitals, eldercare facilities, and therapy animal organizations reveals gaps in health and safety policies for therapy animal visits. Many facilities lack proper guidelines for animal health, behavior, and hygiene, posing risks to both humans and animals.

SourceTufts University·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJun 19, 2017

Wildebeest feast: Mass drownings fuel the Mara River ecosystem

A new study reveals how mass wildebeest drownings impact the ecology of the Mara River. The research found that wildebeest carcasses provide a rich source of nutrients to the river's food web, supporting fish and scavenger populations. This subsidy delivers terrestrial nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon to the river.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2017

Ancient DNA reveals role of Near East and Egypt in cat domestication

A recent study found that domesticated cats descend from the African wildcat or Felis silvestris lybica subspecies. The origins of cat domestication are attributed to the Near East and ancient Egypt around 10,000 years ago, where farmers welcomed wildcats to control rodents.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 19, 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.

Mathematical modeling uncovers mysteries of HIV infection in the brain

A new mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Alberta predicts HIV growth and progression in the brain, revealing a viral reservoir. The model enables scientists to backtrack the development of HIV infection, informing treatment strategies and potential nasal spray therapies.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of NeuroVirology·DateJun 19, 2017

Understanding HIV's persistence

A new study found that HIV-1 infected cells can persist in the body for decades by exploiting normal cell proliferation. The research identified a single infected CD4 T cell that can amplify the number of virally infected cells through clonal proliferation, leading to a million-fold increase.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 19, 2017