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Science News Archive March 2017


Page 33 of 41

Controversial 'liberation therapy' fails to treat multiple sclerosis

A controlled study by UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health research shows no added benefit from opening narrowed veins in treating multiple sclerosis. The findings debunk the claim that patients could achieve dramatic improvements from liberation therapy, an invasive procedure with significant financial cost and risk of complications.

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.

Testing for hepatitis C virus remains low among baby boomers

A recent study found that only a small percentage of baby boomers have been tested for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, despite the availability of treatments. The study suggests that increased awareness and innovative strategies, such as state-mandated testing, are needed to improve HCV testing rates among this demographic.

For organ transplant recipients, skin diseases and risk factors differ by race

A study from Drexel University found that nonwhite organ transplant recipients require unique dermatological care due to varying skin cancer risk factors and locations. The research highlights the importance of evaluating and treating patients differently based on their race, with a focus on sun-protected areas and high-risk human papi...

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.

SLU researchers study a new way to lower LDL cholesterol

Researchers found that targeting REV-ERB nuclear receptor can suppress cholesterol-related enzyme genes, leading to reduced LDL cholesterol levels. The study suggests that this approach may be an effective method for treating diseases associated with high cholesterol.

Vaginal progesterone may reduce newborn complications in some pregnancies

Treatment with vaginal progesterone significantly reduces the risk of preterm birth and related serious adverse outcomes in women pregnant with twins and have a short cervix. Women who received vaginal progesterone had a lower rate of preterm delivery and respiratory distress syndrome compared to those who did not.

New protein discovered in aging and cancer

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have identified a new protein that plays a crucial role in the aging process and early cancer development. The protein, integrin beta 3, helps regulate cellular senescence by transmitting signals to surrounding cells.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Photos show promise as dietary assessment tool, but more training needed

A new study suggests that image-based dietary assessment (IBDA) has promise in improving health outcomes and nutrition policy, but more formalized training is needed for dietitians to accurately assess food intake. Dietitians need training in skills such as food measurement, preparation, and computerized nutrient database systems.

Artificial intelligence in quantum systems, too

The researchers created systems capable of emulating certain properties exclusive of living entities, including natural selection, memory and intelligence. They developed mechanisms for natural selection, memory and learning processes that can be used to automate processes on a quantum scale.

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.

Virginia Tech team examines molecular-level problems of heart disease

Researchers have found that mitochondria aren't producing the same levels of energy as those in a healthy heart, leading to impaired cellular energy production and potential new approaches for treating heart disease. Understanding this abnormality could influence future treatments for millions of people worldwide.

Survival instinct, not family bonds, weave massive spider colonies together

In a study published in Behavioral Ecology, researchers found that spiders form large colonies in response to environmental conditions, such as heavy rainfall and predation. This discovery contradicts the idea that family bonds drive social behavior, instead suggesting that difficult environments lead to cooperative living.

Reducing conducting thin film surface roughness for electronics

University of Massachusetts Amherst engineers develop a physical processing method to reduce surface roughness in conducting thin films. This approach uses electrical surface treatment to smooth out the metallic surface, reducing its ability to conduct electrical and thermal energy.

New design results in compact, highly efficient frequency comb

Researchers at Northwestern University designed a quantum cascade laser (QCL) frequency comb that is one order of magnitude more efficient than previous iterations. The new design emits over four times the output power, making it suitable for detecting industrial emissions, explosives, and chemical warfare agents.

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.

Novel dimensional approach uncovers biomarker for inattention

Researchers have discovered a relationship between brain structure and dimensional measures of ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention. The study found reduced gray matter volume in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) was associated with increased symptom severity.

Future climate change will affect plants and soil differently

A new European study has found that soil carbon loss is more sensitive to climate change compared to carbon taken up by plants. In wetter regions, soil carbon loss increased, while in drier regions it decreased, and this could lead to a positive feedback on atmospheric CO2 levels.

Blueberry concentrate improves brain function in older people

A study by the University of Exeter found that drinking concentrated blueberry juice improved cognitive function, blood flow to the brain, and working memory in healthy older adults. Flavonoids, rich in blueberries, may be an important component in causing these effects.

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.

'Traveling' droughts bring new possibilities for prediction

A new study found that approximately 10% of intense droughts travel between continents in predictable patterns, with the largest and most severe ones having the highest potential for damage. The researchers analyzed drought data from 1979 to 2009, identifying hotspots on each continent where similar tracks were followed.

New study finds price discounts may backfire when combined with large donations

A new study published in Marketing Science found that combining large price discounts with donations to charity can actually reduce sales, as consumers' self-image motivation outweighs their intrinsic motivation to support the charity. The study's authors suggest that marketers should proceed with caution when using these techniques.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study: Manufacturing method may help keep work in high-cost areas

A study published in the Journal of Operations Management found that a production system called seru can help manufacturers remain competitive in high-cost markets. Seru is a cellular assembly approach that uses highly trained workers to achieve responsiveness and quality.

Vision, not limbs, led fish onto land 385 million years ago

Researchers propose that fish first transitioned to land because of enhanced eyesight, which enabled them to see food on land. This hypothesis is supported by the discovery of large eyes in early terrestrial vertebrates, suggesting that vision played a key role in the evolution of limbs.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Eating in social settings may be greatest temptation for dieters

A recent study published at the American Heart Association's scientific sessions found that people are more likely to overeat in social settings. The research revealed that participants had a 60% risk of diet lapse when eating with others, and a 60% chance of overeating in restaurants.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

One step at a time

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are developing a hybrid exoskeleton that combines functional electrical stimulation (FES) with powered exoskeletons. The system will utilize wearable ultrasound sensors to measure muscle fatigue, allowing for real-time sensing and prediction of muscle function.

New hope for treating heart failure

Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a molecule that works to restore balance to pathways responsible for chronic and acute heart failure. The new drug, developed through genetic mapping technology, has shown safety and efficacy in phase II clinical trials.

First underwater video footage of the True's beaked whale

Researchers have obtained the first images of a calf and underwater video of True's beaked whales, revealing new coloration patterns and helping to identify the species. The study highlights the importance of accurate species identification for conservation efforts.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Lung cancer may go undetected in kidney cancer patients

A study of 151 patients with metastatic kidney cancer found that 85 had lung cancer metastasis, but only three had a primary lung cancer tumor that went undiagnosed. This discovery highlights the importance of medical oncologists and radiologists being aware of hidden lung cancers in kidney cancer patients.

Chicago waterways -- still flowing after over 100 years

Researchers highlight the importance of blocking Asian carp from entering Lake Michigan and Great Lakes through the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. The canal system, built over 100 years ago, has protected the city's drinking water supply but also created entry points for invasive species.

Nanozymes -- efficient antidote against pesticides

Scientists at Lomonosov Moscow State University have developed nanozymes, which can degrade toxic organophosphorous compounds with high efficiency. The new technology uses an enzyme encapsulated in a biodegradable polymer coat, reducing immune responses and increasing storage stability.

Penn researchers push the limits of organic synthesis

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have broken the limit of organic synthesis, allowing for more efficient gene and drug delivery. The study suggests that the conformation of the core molecule plays a role in this self-limiting growth phenomenon.

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.

Brain scans of service-dog trainees help sort weaker recruits from the pack

A study by Emory University used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to analyze the brain activity of canine candidates. The results found that brain scans could predict which dogs would fail a rigorous service training program with a significant improvement in accuracy, helping organizations identify unsuitable dogs earlier. ...

A new tool for genetically engineering the oldest branch of life

A new study successfully uses CRISPR-Cas9 to modify the genome of Methanosarcina acetivorans, an archaeal species, for the first time. This breakthrough enables accelerated studies on these organisms, with implications for understanding global climate change and the global carbon cycle.

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.

A backup copy in the central brain: How fruit flies form orientation memory

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have identified two gaseous messenger substances, nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide, as crucial for the formation of Drosophila's spatial orientation memory. This memory is retained in a small group of ring-shaped neurons in the ellipsoid body of the central brain.

Fewer overweight adults report trying to lose weight

A study published in JAMA found that the percentage of overweight and obese adults trying to lose weight declined between 1988-1994 and 2009-2014. The decline was most pronounced among black women, who saw a significant reduction in reporting efforts to lose weight.

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.