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Science News Archive March 2017 - Page 28


Page 28 of 41

Effects of weather variability on maple syrup production studied

Research by Montana State University's Selena Ahmed aims to understand the effects of weather variability on maple syrup production. The study found that warmer temperatures lead to higher levels of phenolic compounds, resulting in darker syrups with lower demand and prices.

SourceMontana State University·DateMar 10, 2017

Biodegradable packages will keep your food fresh

Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology have developed biodegradable packaging that can keep food fresh for longer, reducing food waste and plastic usage. The packaging, made from cellulose composites with added ethereal oil and silver particles, degrades in nature in around two years.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·DateMar 10, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Doctors and patients often disagree on pain treatment goals

Researchers at UC Davis Health found that doctors and patients often have differing priorities for pain treatment, with patients seeking to reduce pain intensity and physicians focusing on improving physical function. The study recommends pain-focused communication training to improve doctor-patient agreements.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalClinical Journal of Pain·DateMar 10, 2017

Using telemedicine to treat multiple sclerosis

A new home-based telemedicine program will be developed and pilot-tested to treat multiple sclerosis patients. The program, funded by a $100,000 Genentech grant, aims to improve care for people with advanced MS living in medically underserved communities.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 10, 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.

Stressed seabird parents think only of themselves

When parent little auks were stressed, they reduced feeding and spent more time searching for food, impacting their offspring's nutrition. Despite this, the birds still displayed a care response to their chicks' begging behaviour.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalJournal of Ornithology·DateMar 10, 2017

Severe hypoglycemia linked to increased risk of death in people with diabetes

A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that severe hypoglycemia is associated with nearly double the risk of cardiovascular disease or death in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Within three years of a dangerously low blood sugar episode, one-third of those in the study died.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateMar 10, 2017

A breath of fresh air for severe asthma research

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital reveals that natural killer cells in patients with severe asthma are disabled from resolving inflammation, leading to ineffective corticosteroid treatment. Researchers also identified lipoxins as a potential therapeutic approach, as they preserve NK cell pro-resolving functions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 10, 2017

An utter shambles

Researchers found that parenting by ADHD parents is less adequate, with more criticism and household chaos. However, they also rated their relationship to children more positively than non-ADHD parents. The study suggests a complex interplay between these factors and recommends future research on designing parent training programs.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Attention Disorders·DateMar 10, 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.

Floods and hurricanes predicted with social media

Researchers tracked social media posts with specific tags before extreme weather events to identify areas at risk. This early warning system has the potential to improve prediction and monitoring of floods and other natural hazards, saving lives and protecting homes.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 10, 2017

Behavioral biology: Ripeness is all

Researchers discovered that spotted-wing flies use senses of smell, touch, and taste to choose ideal nursery sites. They prefer firm texture and volatile chemicals emitted by freshly ripened fruits.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 10, 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.

Immunology: Live and let live

Dendritic cells, which help activate and suppress immune responses, play a key role in maintaining the balance between self and non-self in the gut. The discovery of a signaling molecule, CD40, reveals how this balance can be disrupted, leading to severe colitis, but also highlights the importance of regulatory T-cells in maintaining i...

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2017

This small molecule could have a big future in global food security

Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a promising method to prevent aflatoxin contamination in crops, which could improve food security in developing countries. The transgenic corn plants produce small RNA molecules that suppress toxin production when infected with a fungus.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 10, 2017

Drug use drops after ER visits used as 'teachable moments'

A new study suggests that ER visits can be effective 'teachable moments' for reducing drug use, with brief chats with counselors or virtual therapists showing promise. Participants who received the intervention had 21% fewer days of drug use compared to those in the control group.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAddiction·DateMar 10, 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.

Information avoidance

Research reveals that people deliberately avoid information that challenges their beliefs, leading to harm in individual wellbeing and societal polarization. By understanding the reasons behind information avoidance, governments and firms can develop effective strategies to reach their audiences.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Economic Literature·DateMar 10, 2017

Childhood bullying may lead to increased chronic disease risk in adulthood

Childhood bullying may lead to an increased risk of chronic stress exposure, which can contribute to the development of diseases such as depression, diabetes, and heart disease. Early-life stress exposure can also affect physiological systems' response to future stressors through epigenetic changes.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 2017

What cancer research can learn from military strategy

Researchers are exploring parallels between military counter-insurgency tactics and cancer treatment, focusing on targeted therapies that harness the patient's own resources. By adopting an intelligence-led approach, clinicians can adapt treatment strategies to tackle evolving tumour genetic codes.

SourceLund University·JournalTrends in Cancer·DateMar 10, 2017

Single molecule switch

Researchers successfully demonstrated a reliable and reproducible single molecule switch, enabling electric current to flow between electrodes through the molecule or not. The breakthrough could lead to advancements in molecular electronics.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2017
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.

Castration-resistant prostate cancer cell growth impeded by endostatin

Researchers at University of Alabama at Birmingham discovered endostatin's ability to decrease castration-resistant prostate cell growth in culture. Endostatin reduces oxidative stress and targets hormone receptors, shifting metabolism to scavenge reactive oxygen species.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 10, 2017

Investigational vaccine protects cattle from respiratory syncytial virus

A novel vaccine developed by scientists at NIAID protected cattle from respiratory syncytial virus infection, with high levels of neutralizing antibodies and protection against viral replication. The vaccine's pre-F protein construct showed promise in a model that may be applied to human RSV vaccine development.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateMar 10, 2017

Greater insight into basic biology of pain will reveal non-addictive remedies

Researchers propose a $10 billion public-private partnership to fund new research on pain biology and development of non-addictive medications. The plan focuses on understanding individual variability in response to pain, biomarkers for drug efficacy, and complementary approaches such as acupuncture and mindfulness techniques.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 9, 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.

New indicators to aid Crohn's disease diagnosis and treatment

A study by Arizona State University and Mayo Clinic identified several unique biomarkers, called autoantibodies, that can accurately diagnose Crohn's disease. The discovery has the potential to provide early warning for those at risk of major illnesses, including cancer, autism, and diabetes.

SourceArizona State University·DateMar 9, 2017

Bilateral tinnitus is hereditary

A Swedish twin registry study reveals that bilateral tinnitus has a strong genetic component, especially in men, while unilateral tinnitus is more influenced by environmental factors. The findings have important clinical implications for diagnosis, treatment, and public health.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateMar 9, 2017

GW researchers develop test to study potency for neglected tropical disease vaccine

Researchers at GW University have developed a new relative potency testing program for the Na-GST-1/Alhydrogel hookworm vaccine, showing it remains stable and immunogenic after five years of storage. This innovation aims to improve vaccine effectiveness in developing countries where hookworm infections are prevalent.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 9, 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.

Early pregnancy awareness may be more effective than promoting alcohol abstinence

A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that most women who become pregnant either stop or decrease drinking after a positive pregnancy test. The researchers suggest promoting early pregnancy awareness as an alternative to promoting alcohol abstinence among all women of childbearing age.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 9, 2017

Cancer immunotherapy: Revived T cells still need fuel

A new study shows that even with PD-1 blockade, tumor-specific T cells require CD28 co-stimulation to expand and restore effective immune responses. This finding suggests that only a subset of tumor-specific CD8 T cells will proliferate after PD-1-directed therapy.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateMar 9, 2017

Single atom memory: The world's smallest storage medium

Researchers use Scanning Tunneling Microscope to store and read information in individual holmium atoms, achieving unprecedented miniaturization of storage media. The discovery could revolutionize quantum computing and pave the way for high-density data storage.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·DateMar 9, 2017
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.

Fish and mercury: Detailed consumption advisories would better serve women across US

A recent study published in Environmental Health found that women of childbearing age in the US are eating more fish while having lower blood mercury concentrations. The research indicates that tailored fish consumption advisories based on region and ethnic group would help women eat healthier and monitor their mercury intake better.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateMar 9, 2017

'Recycling protein' shown to affect learning and memory in mice

Researchers found that removing GRASP1 protein reduced mice's ability to learn and recall information. The protein plays a crucial role in recycling receptors in brain cells, which is essential for strengthening neural connections required for learning and memory.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMar 9, 2017

Researchers flip a magnetic memory cell with a light pulse at record speed

University of Minnesota researchers developed a magnetic tunnel junction that can be switched by a pulse of light lasting one trillionth of a second, breaking the current speed record. The device has the potential to enable faster writing speeds and revolutionize information technology advances.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateMar 9, 2017

Study shows how H. pylori causes white blood cells to morph

Researchers found that H. pylori bacteria can alter the structure of white blood cells, known as neutrophils, allowing them to survive within the human body. This change enables the bacteria to evade the immune system, but also shares characteristics with tumor-associated neutrophils that may limit cancer growth.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMar 9, 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.

Introducing steel that doesn't crack under (repeated) pressure

A new study introduces a steel alloy with a laminated nanosubstructure, inspired by bone structure, which is more resistant to cracking under repeated stress. This development has potential to improve the safety of buildings and components that experience cyclic loads.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 9, 2017

Scientists reveal structure of potential leishmaniasis vaccine

Researchers have characterized the structure of a protein from sand flies that can convey immunity to Leishmania parasites. The SALO protein showed promise in inducing long-term protection against leishmaniasis in mice, with no appreciable similarities to human proteins.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 9, 2017

Flame retardant chemicals may affect social behavior in young children

A pilot study by Oregon State University found a significant relationship between exposure to flame retardants and externalizing behaviors such as aggression, defiance, and hyperactivity in children aged 3-5. Higher exposure rates were associated with less responsible behavior and more social issues.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateMar 9, 2017

Conquering metal fatigue

A team of researchers at MIT has developed a novel material with a laminated nanostructure that reduces metal fatigue, allowing it to deform without spreading microcracks. This breakthrough could lead to improved structural components in industries such as aerospace and automotive.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 9, 2017
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.

Illinois researchers create first exact model for diffusion in magnesium alloys

Researchers at the University of Illinois created an exact model for diffusion in magnesium alloys, allowing for accurate predictions of impurity atoms' movement. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new lightweight structural metals for automotive and aerospace applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 9, 2017

Chronic comorbidities raise hospitalization risk in dementia

A retrospective analysis of 30,112 home-care clients with dementia found that chronic comorbidities significantly increase the risk of hospitalizations and emergency department visits. The study suggests that targeting high-risk individuals may help prioritize healthcare resources.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 9, 2017

The researchers discovered an unexpected link between cancer and autism

A new study published in Nature Cell Biology reveals that the SHANK protein plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of breast cancer cells by regulating cell adhesion. The research also found that gene mutations in SHANK are linked to autism, demonstrating the protein's importance in both brain development and tumor invasion.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 9, 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.

Scientists effectively disrupt communication between parasites that spread disease

A new intervention developed by Bar-Ilan University scientists can control parasite migration by creating an unfavorable environment or damaging cell health. This research has the potential to lead to the development of drugs to treat and prevent diseases such as African sleeping sickness, leishmaniasis, and Chagas' disease.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 9, 2017

The intestine has a reservoir of stem cells that are resistant to chemotherapy

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have discovered a new group of quiescent intestinal stem cells that are resistant to chemotherapy. These cells, estimated to be one in ten compared to active stem cells, play a crucial role in tissue regeneration and can produce any type of intestinal cell.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 9, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

The prototype of a chemical computer detects a sphere

Researchers at the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences developed a chemical computer that can recognize the shape of a sphere with great accuracy. The system uses a network of oscillating droplets, where each droplet acts as a 'neuronal' unit, to process information and make decisions.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalComputational Methods in Science and Technology·DateMar 9, 2017

Robber fly's aerial hunting skill relies on extreme visual acuity

Researchers discovered that robber flies employ a constant bearing angle strategy and 'lock on' to their prey at a distance, allowing them to capture small targets. The flies' eyes have been found to have a high spatial resolution, enabling them to detect prey items up to 100 body lengths away.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 9, 2017