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Science News Archive November 2017 - Page 21


Page 21 of 42

RUDN University scientists found a new cascade reaction

Researchers have discovered a new chemical reaction to synthesize diazabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes, which could lead to breakthroughs in drug development. The new approach allows for the rapid synthesis of complex compounds without requiring additional reagents or catalysts.

SourceRUDN University·JournalJournal of Fluorine Chemistry·DateNov 15, 2017

A delicate crossing: Controller developed to open the blood-brain barrier with precision

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a system to temporarily loosen the blood-brain barrier using microbubbles, allowing for real-time monitoring and controlled delivery of drugs to the brain. The approach offers improved safety and efficacy control for human clinical trials underway in Canada.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2017

Researchers chart rising inequality across millennia

The study found that hunter-gatherer societies had low wealth disparities, while larger agricultural societies saw increasing inequality. The researchers attribute this to the domestication of plants and large animals, which led to increased social organization and wealth concentration.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 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.

NASA measures Haikui's remnant rainfall over southern Vietnam

GPM data shows storms from Haikui's remnants containing light to moderate precipitation, with some areas dropping rain at over 23 mm per hour. Heavier precipitation was also detected in southern Vietnam, exceeding 79 mm per hour in downpours not associated with Haikui.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 15, 2017

New guidelines issued for diagnosis and care of LAM, a rare lung disease

The American Thoracic Society and Japanese Respiratory Society have published new clinical practice guidelines for lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare lung disease affecting women of child-bearing age. The guidelines recommend a diagnostic approach that includes transbronchial lung biopsy before surgical lung biopsy, as well as earl...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

X-rays reveal the biting truth about parrotfish teeth

A study by scientists at the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has revealed a unique chain mail-like woven microstructure in parrotfish teeth that enables their remarkable bite and resilience. This structure also provides a blueprint for creating ultra-durable synthetic materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 15, 2017

Kevlar-based artificial cartilage mimics the magic of the real thing

Researchers created a synthetic material that combines the strengths of Kevlar with polyvinyl alcohol to mimic natural cartilage's properties. The new material boasts the same mechanism as natural cartilage, releasing water under stress and recovering by absorbing it later.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 15, 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.

Has the Mental Health Act had its day?

Experts argue that a non-discriminatory legal framework governing involuntary treatment could replace unjust discrimination against people with mental ill health. Critics, however, worry that changing the law without proper resourced services could lead to reduced rates of compulsion and decreased care for vulnerable individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 15, 2017

Study urges global-change researchers to embrace variability

A new review article argues that incorporating natural variability into experiments can provide more accurate insights into the effects of climate change on corals and other reef organisms. Studies found that varying factors such as temperature and pH can affect the physiology and response to future changes, warranting further research.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalCurrent Climate Change Reports·DateNov 15, 2017

'Left-handed' fish and asymmetrical brains

Biologists have found that cichlid fish with a distinct preference for one side of their bodies exhibit corresponding asymmetry in brain structure and gene expression. The study reveals a functional relationship between brain shape and behavioral laterality, suggesting an evolutionary link to handedness in humans.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateNov 15, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gut bacteria are sensitive to salt

A study published in Nature found that common salt reduces certain lactic acid bacteria in the gut of mice and humans, impacting immune cells responsible for autoimmune diseases and hypertension. Probiotics ameliorate disease symptoms in mice.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017

Intentional teaching makes the biggest impact on early childhood outcomes

Research suggests that high-quality preschool teaching practices, particularly those focused on intentional teaching and scaffolding, have the largest effect on young children's academic and social skills. Effective curricula, teacher-child ratio, and professional development also play a significant role in shaping outcomes.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·JournalChild Development Perspectives·DateNov 15, 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.

Stopping the dengue threat

A QUT study has identified social factors such as overseas arrivals, rainwater tanks, and economic status as potential dengue risk factors. The study suggests increasing surveillance and monitoring of travellers arriving in Australia to control the importation and transmission of dengue virus.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 15, 2017

How to keep cows happy

A Brazilian study reveals that minor changes to corrals, such as removing splash colors and water puddles, can significantly reduce the stress levels of cattle. The implementation of good handling practices, including calm handlers and reduced noise levels, also led to improved behavior and cortisol release.

SourceSpringer·JournalTropical Animal Health and Production·DateNov 15, 2017

Count your blessings: Quantitative microbiome profiling

The VIB-KU Leuven team presents a novel approach to analyzing gut microbiota, enabling the calculation of bacterial loads in fecal samples. This allows for a more accurate understanding of the relationship between microbiome composition and health parameters.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 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.

Spinning cylinders to recreate nature's patterns

Researchers at Institute for Basic Science developed a method to create dynamic tubular structures by exploiting centripetal force of rotating fluids, enabling self-assembly of particles under non-equilibrium conditions. This breakthrough could lead to creation of various shapes of microcomposites useful in photonics applications.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 15, 2017

Three-dimensional nanomagnets for the computer of tomorrow

Scientists at the University of Cambridge and TU Eindhoven develop functional 3D-nanoprinted circuits that can process information along three dimensions. This breakthrough could lead to significant increases in electronic device storage and processing capacities.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 15, 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.

Engineering the gut microbiome with 'good' bacteria may help treat Crohn's disease

Researchers at Penn Medicine found that wiping out bad bacteria and re-introducing 'good' bacteria can reconfigure the gut microbiota, potentially treating Crohn's disease. The study used human and mouse studies to show that a single enzyme can regulate bacterial nitrogen metabolism and lead to dysbiosis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

The rhetorical signature of Donald J. Trump

Kathleen Hall Jamieson and Doron Taussig analyze Trump's rhetoric, finding it both disrupted political norms and created challenges for governing. Trump's signature traits include spontaneity, accountability dodging, and demonization, which have led to concerns about his mental acuity and speculation about invoking the 25th Amendment.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalPolitical Science Quarterly·DateNov 15, 2017

Visiting the doctor for low back pain? Expect something different now...

Recent revisions to major international guidelines for the management of low back pain recommend shifting from pain medicines to non-medicinal approaches such as yoga, mindfulness, and physiotherapy. GPs are now unlikely to prescribe pain medicines, encouraging a more holistic approach to treating LBP.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 15, 2017

Developing a new vaccination strategy against AIDS

Researchers tested a new vaccination approach in rhesus monkeys, finding that the type and order of administration influenced immune activation. The study showed promise for inducing sustained protective immunity without increasing CD4+ T helper cells.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalJournal of Virology·DateNov 15, 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.

Public -- and researchers -- skeptical to climate engineering

A study found that the general public and researchers share a sceptical attitude towards climate engineering, preferring political solutions over technological interventions. Respondents expressed concerns about the complexity of systems we don't understand and the potential for greater problems than it solves.

SourceLinköping University·JournalClimatic Change·DateNov 15, 2017

Filling intercropping info gap

Researchers developed mathematical equations to calculate crop yields and optimize fertilizer use for sorghum-peanut intercropping. The study aims to improve profits and food production in West Africa, where millions of farmers face food security challenges.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateNov 15, 2017

Targeting cancer without destroying healthy T-cells

Researchers have discovered a method to target cancerous T-cells while sparing healthy ones, which are essential to the immune system. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic approaches for rare and aggressive T-cell lymphoma, which has been difficult to treat without damaging healthy T-cells.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

Generous people give in a heartbeat -- new study

Research at Anglia Ruskin University and Stockholm University links sensitivity to heartbeats with generosity. Participants in a game showed higher generosity when better at detecting heartbeats.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 15, 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.

Aging tests yield varying results

Researchers compared 11 measures of aging, including blood and chromosome tests, and found that none consistently predicted physical or cognitive changes. Telomere length and epigenetic clocks showed some promise but were less clearly linked to physiological outcomes.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 15, 2017

Wine 'legs' and minibot motors (video)

Researchers Lidong Zhang and colleagues developed a new method for propelling tiny motors using the Marangoni effect, eliminating expensive catalysts. The droplets rotate rapidly on water, propelled hundreds of centimeters without pollution, with added electromagnetic generator converting kinetic energy to electrical energy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateNov 15, 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.

Virtual reality training may be as effective as regular therapy after stroke

A recent study published in Neurology found that virtual reality training can improve arm and hand movement after a stroke, with results comparable to traditional therapy. The study involved 120 participants who underwent either standard physical and occupational therapy or virtual reality training for four weeks.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 15, 2017

Teenage depression linked to father's depression

A new study by University College London researchers found a significant association between fathers' depressive symptoms and their teenage children's symptoms of depression. The study, which analyzed data from two large longitudinal studies, suggests that family-focused interventions should also target fathers to prevent depression.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateNov 15, 2017

Study finds asthma and food allergies predictable at age 1

A study finds that children with eczema or atopic dermatitis and sensitization to an allergen at age 1 are significantly more likely to develop asthma and a food allergy by age three. The CHILD Study also found that early introduction of common allergenic foods may reduce the risk of allergic sensitization and food allergy.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 15, 2017

An Alzheimer's treatment would tax the US health care system

A new study suggests that a breakthrough Alzheimer's treatment could leave millions of people without access to care due to the US healthcare system's limited capacity. The study identifies shortcomings in specialist diagnosis, diagnostic scanners, and infusion centers, and recommends measures to prepare for an Alzheimer's therapy.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateNov 15, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study finds consuming nuts strengthens brainwave function

A study by Loma Linda University Health researchers found that consuming nuts regularly strengthens brainwave frequencies associated with cognition, healing, learning, memory, and other key brain functions. Pistachios produced the greatest gamma wave response, while peanuts stimulated the highest delta response.

SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 15, 2017

Water baths as good as bleach baths for treating eczema

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that water baths were just as effective as bleach baths in reducing eczema symptoms, with no added benefits to using bleach. Regular bathing can help control bacterial infections and prevent dryness, making it a better alternative for patients with eczema.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateNov 15, 2017

Manganese-based MRI contrast agent may be safer alternative to gadolinium-based agents

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a potential alternative to gadolinium-based contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The new manganese-based agent Mn-PyC3A produced comparable image enhancement to the standard of care with rapid clearance and less likelihood of toxicity. The study used a baboon...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalRadiology·DateNov 15, 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.

Amazon's recovery from forest losses limited by climate change

A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that Amazon forest areas have limited ability to recover due to recent climate changes. The findings suggest that replanted and recovering forests can only lock away about two-thirds of the carbon they have lost over the past 20 years.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 15, 2017

NUS researchers identify potential mediator for social memory formation

A study by NUS researchers has identified the potential role of a neuropeptide named Substance P as a mediator of social memory in area CA2 of the hippocampus. This finding suggests that Substance P may play a key role in forming social memories, including distinguishing between familiar and novel faces or objects.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2017

Diagnostic test helps primary care docs rule out pathologic heart murmur in kids

A new diagnostic test found that disappearing of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs in children. The test showed a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity, making it a valuable tool for primary care docs to exclude costly cardiologist referrals.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 15, 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.

Hunt for dark matter is narrowed by new University of Sussex research

Scientists at the University of Sussex have disproved the existence of a specific type of axion, an important candidate for 'dark matter', across a wide range of its possible masses. The study limits the characteristics that these particles could have, sending physicists back to the drawing board in their hunt for dark matter.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalPhysical Review X·DateNov 15, 2017

November/December 2017 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

A new study found that disappearance of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs. The test, using an acoustic-based stethoscope, has a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 15, 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.

Model sheds new light on pathogen cooperation

A new model reveals that cooperative contagion processes can lead to more severe spread of infectious diseases, generating abrupt outbreak transitions and multi-stability. This discovery highlights the need for new containment strategies to combat epidemics in realistic systems.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 15, 2017

Tapeworm drug fights prostate cancer

Researchers at the University of Bergen find that NTZ deactivates activated Beta-catenin in prostate and colon cancer cells, stopping their growth. The discovery could lead to faster development of new treatments for these cancers.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 15, 2017