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Science News Archive March 2017 - Page 12


Page 12 of 41

Wastewater cleaned thanks to a new adsorbent material made from fruit peels

Researchers have developed an adsorbent material from orange and grapefruit peels that can effectively remove heavy metals and organic compounds from wastewater. The new material has great potential as a sustainable alternative for industrial water treatment processes.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateMar 23, 2017

Assembly of genetic sequences approaches 100 percent accuracy

Researchers developed a modified Hi-C technique to identify incorrect scaffold positions and anchor sequences, achieving 99% genome assembly accuracy for human genomes. The technique was applied to assemble the genomes of two mosquito species, revealing shared ancestry that could aid in controlling disease-carrying vectors.

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

Parallel computation provides deeper insight into brain function

Researchers developed high-speed computational software 'Parallel STEPS' to model neuronal interactions and functions. The new approach achieved significantly improved performance, enabling faster simulation of complex models and revealing new insights into individual neuron behavior.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroinformatics·DateMar 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.

Researchers propose new diagnostic model for psychiatric disorders

A new diagnostic model, Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP), has been proposed to address fundamental flaws in the current DSM-5 model. HiTOP allows for a continuous, dimensional assessment of psychopathology, enabling more personalized treatment and recognition of significant problems.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateMar 23, 2017

Mosquito monitoring has limited utility in dengue control, study finds

Researchers found no association between mosquito abundance and dengue virus risk, but longitudinal indicators showed individuals living with mosquito evidence were more likely to contract dengue. Alternative surveillance frameworks incorporating human outcomes may be necessary for effective dengue control programs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 23, 2017

Rice U. refines filters for greener natural gas

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new material that balances carbon dioxide sequestration and methane selectivity in natural gas production. The filter, made with a polymer-based sorbent, achieves optimal performance by adjusting the ratio of potassium, oxygen, and hydrogen activation reagents during processing.

SourceRice University·DateMar 23, 2017

Possible new target for treatment of multiple sclerosis found by U of A researchers

Researchers at U of A have identified a potential target for treating multiple sclerosis by discovering an underlying defect in brain cells. The study found that two sub-components within a cell are miscommunicating in patients with MS, triggering dysfunction and toxicity for brain cells.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·DateMar 23, 2017

Researchers focus on cell membranes to develop Alzheimer's treatments

Researchers discovered that thin parts of neuronal membranes are vulnerable to amyloid-beta protein, which builds up in Alzheimer's disease. The study found that thinner membrane fragments allow plaque to penetrate the cell, leading to cell death and memory loss.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 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.

Preterm births more common in mothers who are cancer survivors

A study by UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center found that women diagnosed with cancer during their childbearing years are at a higher risk of delivering preterm and having babies with low birth weight. The study identified potential risks for mothers who are cancer survivors, including a greater risk of cesarean section deliveries.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 23, 2017

Spiritual retreats change feel-good chemical systems in the brain

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found significant changes in dopamine and serotonin transporters after a seven-day spiritual retreat, leading to increased positive emotions and self-transcendence. The study suggests that such retreats could prime the brain for spiritual experiences.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·DateMar 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.

Surprising culprit in nerve cell damage identified

Scientists at WashU Medicine have implicated SARM1 in the self-destruction of axons, a process that leads to nerve cell damage in neurodegenerative diseases. The study suggests that blocking this pathway could slow or prevent disease progression and has implications for treating peripheral neuropathy.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMar 23, 2017

A tale of 2 states

Human embryonic stem cells exist in two states: naïve and primed. Researchers have identified molecular flags on these cells, allowing them to track and investigate their transition. This approach has revealed new insights into the timing and coordination of gene activity changes during reprogramming.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 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.

Republicans less likely to be critical about Obamacare when thinking of their own medical needs

A study by University of Exeter researchers found that US Republicans are less likely to be critical of Obamacare when reminded about their own medical needs. When asked to assess the performance of the Affordable Care Act in a more personal context, Republicans viewed evidence in a more balanced way.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Public Administration Research and Theory·DateMar 23, 2017

Isotopic makeup of atmospheric sulfate and nitrate

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology found that oxygen isotopic compositions of sulfate and nitrate fluctuate seasonally, reflecting sunlight-driven changes in oxidation pathways. The study suggests that these fluctuations are not influenced by ozone variations.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateMar 23, 2017

Protecting web users' privacy

Researchers at MIT and Stanford develop Splinter, a system that disguises database queries to protect user privacy. The system uses function secret sharing to split queries across multiple servers, making it impossible for anyone other than the user to determine what query was executed.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 23, 2017

New tools to study the origin of embryonic stem cells

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new tool to distinguish between immature and mature embryonic stem cells. These cells hold great potential for replacing damaged tissue and understanding early embryonic development.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 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.

New study shows circular RNA can encode for proteins

A new study reveals that circular RNAs, previously thought to be non-coding, can encode for proteins. The discovery suggests an unexplored layer of gene activity and may have implications for understanding aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 23, 2017

Corals die as global warming collides with local weather in the South China Sea

A study published in Scientific Reports found that a 2°C rise in sea surface temperature in June 2015 led to a 6°C rise on Dongsha Atoll, killing approximately 40% of the resident coral community. The researchers suggest that natural cooling mechanisms can no longer protect corals from the effects of global warming.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 23, 2017

Big-game jitters: Coyotes no match for wolves' hunting prowess

A new study led by University of Nebraska-Lincoln ecologist John Benson found that eastern coyotes hunt moose and other large prey far less frequently than does the eastern wolf. The findings suggest that eastern coyotes have not filled the ecological niche left vacant when the eastern wolf became threatened.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalEcological Applications·DateMar 23, 2017

Clot or bleeding?

The CLUE Working Group conducted two systematic reviews to address thrombosis and hemorrhage risks after urological cancer operations and other forms of urological surgery. The studies found that anticoagulant prophylaxis is justified in high-risk patients, but not necessarily in low-risk procedures.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEuropean Urology·DateMar 23, 2017
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.

Predatory lizard enters Brazil clandestinely

A new invasive species, Anolis porcatus from Cuba, has been identified in the São Paulo coast of Brazil near the Port of Santos. The species, a generalist predator, competes with native lizards for resources and could potentially harm local ecosystems.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSouth American Journal of Herpetology·DateMar 23, 2017

New stem cell method produces millions of human brain and muscle cells in days

Scientists have developed a new technique to produce human brain and muscle cells in just a few days, allowing for the creation of millions of functional cells. This breakthrough method, OPTi-OX, enables researchers to study diseases such as Alzheimer's and Multiple Sclerosis at unprecedented purities.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 23, 2017

A new approach to diagnosing mental disorders could become an alternative to DSM-5

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) proposes a new classification system for mental disorders based on scientific evidence and illness symptoms. This approach addresses limitations of the DSM-5, such as unstable diagnoses and co-occurring disorders, by categorizing mental illnesses on a spectrum.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateMar 23, 2017
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.

Study featuring genomic sequencing & international data shows random errors...

A recent study analyzing genome sequencing and epidemiologic data from 32 cancer types found that nearly two-thirds of mutations in these cancers are attributable to random errors. The researchers' approach offers a novel perspective on cancer development, highlighting the need for more research efforts focused on secondary prevention.

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

Most dengue infections transmitted in and around home

Research finds that dengue virus transmissions are often centered in and around homes, with a high percentage of cases related to individuals living within a short distance. The study's findings could aid in developing targeted mosquito control programs and reducing severe illness.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateMar 23, 2017

New era in precision medicine for pancreatic cancer

A network of clinical trials aims to find the right treatment for the right patient, using individual molecular profiles. The project will recruit 658 patients across the UK, with a focus on matching patients with suitable clinical trials already in progress.

SourceCancer Research UK·DateMar 23, 2017

How language helps people cope with negative experiences

A new study demonstrates that people use the word "you" in a general sense to distance themselves psychologically from negative experiences. Participants who used generic 'you' reported more psychological distance from their negative experiences, suggesting a coping mechanism.

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

Inactive teens develop lazy bones, study finds

A new study by UBC researchers found that inactive teenagers have weaker bones than their active peers. The four-year study measured bone strength and found that kids who didn't meet daily physical activity recommendations had significantly weaker bones.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateMar 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.

Effective one-shot vaccination of newborns moves closer to reality

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital report achieving strong vaccine responses in newborn animals and monkeys using a new adjuvant formulation. The study demonstrates the potential for a single-dose vaccine to protect against life-threatening infections, promising to reduce infant mortality globally.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 23, 2017

Chemists ID catalytic 'key' for converting CO2 to methanol

Researchers from Brookhaven National Laboratory have identified the active site in a commonly used catalyst for making methanol from CO2. They found that copper zinc oxide should give the best results, with a synergy between copper and zinc oxide accelerating the chemical transformation.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMar 23, 2017

Researcher wins prestigious NSF career award

Joe Feser's $500,000 NSF grant will focus on manipulating heat transfer by phonons using embedded nanoparticles. The research aims to engineer materials with improved thermal properties for applications such as nanostructured electronic and optical materials.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateMar 22, 2017

Many adults have insufficient knowledge about heart failure

A German survey found that overall awareness of heart failure has not increased over the past decade, with many adults lacking knowledge on its causes, presentation, prognosis, and treatment. The study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about heart failure to improve early recognition and treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalESC Heart Failure·DateMar 22, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Minitablets help medicate picky cats

Researchers developed minitablets with synthetic flavourings and coatings to enhance palatability, making it easier for cats to take medication. The study found that amino acids and vitamin B-based flavours were promising options, but further research is needed.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Veterinary Journal·DateMar 22, 2017

Loss of smell linked to increased risk of early death

Poor smell was associated with an 8% lower risk of mortality, while those with complete olfactory loss had a 19% higher risk of death. Olfactory assessments may provide insights into the aging brain and future research aims to pinpoint underlying biological processes.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 22, 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.

Researchers create self-sustaining bacteria-fueled power cell

Binghamton University researchers developed a micro-scale self-sustaining bacterial fuel cell that generated power for 13 straight days through symbiotic interactions of two types of bacteria. The cell produced an electrical current about 70 times greater than phototrophic bacteria alone.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMar 22, 2017

Google Street View cars are eyes on the ground for urban methane leaks

Researchers at Colorado State University are using Google Street View cars equipped with methane analyzers to create a comprehensive inventory of urban methane leak sources. The project aims to help utility companies prioritize leak repairs based on emissions, reducing pipeline methane emissions by 30% and accelerating crucial repairs.

SourceColorado State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 22, 2017

AAOS 2017: Why some ACL surgeries fail

A recent study by Asheesh Bedi at the AAOS Annual Meeting highlights that ACL reconstruction surgery can fail in up to 20% of cases, requiring repeat surgery. The surgeon is working on identifying correctable factors to reduce failure rates and improve outcomes for young active athletes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMar 22, 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.

Sea urchin spines could fix bones

Researchers have developed a degradable bone scaffold from sea urchin spines that promotes bone formation and easily degrades, overcoming limitations of current bioceramics. The study's findings could lead to the design of new bone repair materials with improved strength and properties.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 22, 2017

UMass Amherst polymer scientist wins international research award

Alfred Crosby, a UMass Amherst polymer scientist, has received a $1 million grant to explore the development of nanoscale wrinkles in plants and animals. He will collaborate with experts from the University of Cambridge and Switzerland to understand how these patterns relate to all living organisms.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateMar 22, 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.

How birthplace and education influence marriage choices in China

A UBC study found that in Shanghai, local hukou shapes individual marital choices and is a valuable attribute. Education also plays a role, with migrants more likely to marry into a household with Shanghai hukou if they have a higher education level.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalChinese Sociological Review·DateMar 22, 2017

Sea ice extent sinks to record lows at both poles

Scientists at NASA and NSIDC report record low wintertime maximum extent of Arctic sea ice on March 7, reaching 5.57 million square miles. In Antarctica, sea ice minimum extent fell to 815,000 square miles in February, its lowest level since satellites began measuring in 1979.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 22, 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.