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Science News Archive October 2017 - Page 31


Page 31 of 43

Fighting sickle cell disease by looking back to infancy

Researchers at MUSC are developing a gene-modifying treatment for sickle cell disease by targeting the LSD 1 enzyme. The potential breakthrough could lead to a disease-modifying treatment and fast-track human clinical trials in as few as three years.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateOct 10, 2017

Survey provides new directions for employment of people with disabilities

The 2017 Kessler Foundation National Employment and Disability Survey: Supervisor Perspectives shows that most employers have processes and practices in place for the inclusion of employees with and without disabilities. Effective practices like centralized accommodation funds are highly effective, but underutilized by many organizations.

SourceKessler Foundation·DateOct 10, 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.

Changes in perspective may affect how useful drones really are

Researchers found that users struggle to use drone images to locate objects on the ground, posing challenges for emergency operations and applications. Switching from an aerial view to a ground view slows down estimates of object location, with incorrect placements four times farther away.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 10, 2017

A molecular garbage disposal complex has a role in packing the genome

The proteasome complex has been found to regulate DNA packing in the nucleus, influencing gene expression. In yeast cells, the proteasome can induce heterochromatin formation but prevent its spread, suggesting an alternative mechanism of action beyond proteolysis.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 10, 2017

Study shows antibody-biogel partnership can be stronger defense than previously thought

Scientists have discovered that weak binding between antibodies and biological gels like mucus is more effective in trapping pathogens, making it a stronger first line of defense. This finding has the potential to revolutionize the treatment and prevention of various diseases by providing new targets for engineered antibodies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 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.

Genetic advance for male birth control

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the PNLDC1 gene as a key player in regulating sperm production, providing a genetic foundation for male birth control. The study's findings suggest that silencing this gene can lead to infertility in mice, making it a promising approach for human male contraception.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

New ichthyosaur species, long gone, found in a storeroom

A new species of ichthyosaur, Protoichthyosaurus applebyi, has been identified from a fossil at the University of Nottingham. The specimen is significant due to its rarity and uniqueness, providing valuable insights into Britain's early fossil past and ichthyosaur evolution.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateOct 10, 2017

Research reveals how rabies can induce frenzied behavior

A new study reveals how rabies induces frenzied behavior in animals by binding to and inhibiting brain receptors, leading to the transmission of the disease. The research provides a molecular mechanism for this behavior change, shedding light on why rabies is devastating in poor, rural regions.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 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.

Law enforcement-related deaths in the US undercounted in official government data

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that law enforcement-related deaths in the US are significantly undercounted in official government data. The study used capture-recapture analysis and multilevel logistic regression to estimate the number of such deaths, finding that only 44.9% were documented by state death certificates compar...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 10, 2017

Solar flux: From bug to feature

Sandia scientists develop a system to convert surplus solar flux into additional electricity at tower CSP plants, increasing capacity by up to 10 MW and reducing costs. The concept involves cladding the tower with photovoltaic panels, generating over 10% of total capacity.

SourceSolarPACES·DateOct 10, 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.

Electrons surfing on a laser beam

Researchers at FAU successfully developed a new technique to generate an optical field that can be influenced with great precision, enabling light and electrons to coincide within 'attoseconds'. This allows for high-energy acceleration of electrons, promising applications in materials science, biology, and medicine.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 10, 2017

What is a safe following distance?

A study by Queensland University of Technology found that 50% of drivers tailgate, with most leaving less than a two-second gap between vehicles. The researchers identified confusion among drivers over what is deemed a safe following distance, which can lead to rear-end crashes.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateOct 10, 2017

Best way to recognize emotions in others: Listen

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that listening without visual cues improves emotion recognition. Researchers conducted five experiments with over 1,800 participants and discovered that voice-only communication yields more accurate results than combined visual and auditory cues.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateOct 10, 2017

'Fake fin' discovery reveals new ichthyosaur species

A new study has re-examined a 1970s-discovered ichthyosaur, Protoichthyosaurus, and found major differences in its forefin structure compared to Ichthyosaurus. The discovery of fake fins added to some specimens led to the recognition of a new species, Protoichthyosaurus applebyi.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateOct 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.

New smell test could aid early detection of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed new smell tests that can detect olfactory disorders more reliably than conventional options. The tests aim to identify underlying causes of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases early on, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2017

Missing atoms in a forgotten crystal bring luminescence

A team of researchers at KAUST discovered the origin of strong photoluminescence in Cs4PbBr6, a perovskite material. Heating the crystal to 180°C irreversibly destroys its photoluminescence, but creates CsPbBr3 nanocrystals that act as traps for excitons, leading to efficient re-emission of light.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateOct 10, 2017

Growing human brain cells in the lab

Researchers have developed a new, simplified technique to produce homogeneous human brain cells in the lab, accelerating drug screening and disease study. This breakthrough allows for cost-effective production of large quantities of brain cells within weeks, enabling wider adoption in basic science and industry.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateOct 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.

Forest grazing counteracts the effectiveness of trees to reduce flood risk

A recent study published in Geoderma suggests that high-intensity forest land use like grazing can counteract the positive effect of tree planting on reducing flood risk. Researchers found that infiltration rates were higher under trees when the forest was undisturbed, but decreased when sheep grazed underneath

SourceLancaster University·JournalGeoderma·DateOct 10, 2017

Common acid reflux medications promote chronic liver disease

Researchers discovered that stomach acid suppression alters specific gut bacteria in a way that promotes liver injury and progression of three types of chronic liver disease. This association was found in both mouse models and human patients with chronic alcohol abuse, highlighting the potential risks of common acid reflux medications.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 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.

Ibuprofen better choice over oral morphine for pain relief in children after minor surgery

A randomized controlled trial found ibuprofen to be a better choice for postoperative pain relief in children aged 5-17 after minor orthopedic surgery. The study showed that ibuprofen had fewer adverse effects compared to oral morphine, which was associated with significant side effects such as nausea and drowsiness.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 10, 2017

Probing exotic ices

Researchers analyzed how water molecules interact with one another in three types of ice, finding that interactions depend strongly on molecule orientation and ice structure. Insights from this analysis will help understand liquid water and its behavior surrounding biomolecules.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 10, 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.

Meeting an unmet need: A surgical implant that grows with a child

Researchers developed a growth-accommodating implant that can expand in tune with a child's natural growth, decreasing the number of heart surgeries a child must endure. The novel design, inspired by nature, could also be adapted for other growth-accommodating implants throughout the body.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 2017

The Fitbits of food ingestion?

A multi-disciplinary team developed flexible sensors that can sense movement and ingestion in the stomach for at least two days. These devices can harvest energy from the gastrointestinal tract movement and potentially power novel ingestible electronic systems.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 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.

Deaton designated as SRA International Distinguished Faculty

Andrea Deaton, University of Oklahoma administrator, has been designated as a Society of Research Administrators International Distinguished Faculty. She is recognized for her exemplary teaching, scholarship, and practice in research management and administration.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateOct 10, 2017

Pest resistance to biotech crops surging

A global assessment reveals that genetically engineered crops producing insect-killing proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis have led to a fivefold increase in pest resistance cases over the past decade. However, some pests remain suppressed due to factors such as recessive inheritance of resistance and abundant refuges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 10, 2017

Ancient asteroid impact exposes the moon's interior

Scientists have discovered that the moon's mantle is composed of orthopyroxene, not olivine, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding challenges models for the formation and evolution of the Moon and its differences from Earth.

SourcePurdue University·JournalGeology·DateOct 10, 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.

Breath instead of a blood test

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to monitor lipolysis in real-time by analyzing exhaled acetone during exercise. The new breath test can detect when the body starts burning fat, allowing athletes to optimize their training regimen.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 10, 2017

Little growth observed in India's methane emissions

A recent study by the University of Bristol found that India's methane emissions have shown little growth over the last few years, with accurate reporting by the country's authorities. The research used a combination of observations from the surface, an aircraft, and a satellite to quantify India's methane emissions.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Sharing of science is most likely among male scientists

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that male scientists are more likely to share their research than female scientists. The researchers discovered a significant gender gap in scientific collaboration, with males being over 15% more likely to respond positively to requests for shared work.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 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.

New health equity research center established at UIC

The University of Illinois Chicago has established a Center of Excellence in minority health and health disparities research, funded by a $6.75 million NIH grant. The center will investigate social determinants contributing to health disparities in marginalized groups.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateOct 10, 2017

Parasite study paves way for therapies to tackle deadly infections

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have made a significant discovery on how a harmful parasite harnesses energy, which could lead to new treatments. The study reveals that targeting a key enzyme linked to metabolism could be an effective way to kill the parasite without harming humans.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateOct 10, 2017

A lesson for Canada: Quebec pharmacare system creates winners and losers

A study found that Quebec's system increased access to medicines for working population but came at a cost of $200 more per person than the rest of Canada. The private-public model disproportionately affects low-income individuals and families, with premiums exceeding three percent of household income.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 10, 2017

Breeding salt-tolerant plants

Researchers have discovered that quinoa plants can absorb and store salt in bladder cells, allowing them to thrive on saline soils. This unique adaptation enables the plant to recycle energy from sugar molecules to neutralize toxic salt.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 10, 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.

How the cone snail's deadly venom can help us build better medicines

Scientists studying cone snail venom aim to develop new medicines by understanding how the poison works. Researchers have discovered that cone snail toxins can overlap between the immune and central nervous systems in humans, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treatments for neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Does chronic inflammation contribute to PCOS?

The University of Illinois Chicago is conducting a $3 million study on inflammation's role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects one in seven women. The research aims to test whether nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug salsalate can improve ovarian function and reduce inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateOct 10, 2017

Research explores relationship between social media and drinking

A University of Houston psychologist explores how social media influences alcohol consumption among college students, finding that heavy drinkers overestimate others' drinking and misperceive what's normal. A new intervention uses social media to provide personalized feedback and reduce excessive drinking.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 10, 2017

Smartphone apps launched for atrial fibrillation patients and their healthcare providers

Atrial fibrillation patients can use My AF app to access condition information, treatment options, and lifestyle tips. The app also enables face-to-face consultations with healthcare professionals. Meanwhile, AF Manager app helps healthcare providers import patient data, suggest personalized treatment plans, and share notes with patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEP Europace·DateOct 10, 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.

Tenfold increase in childhood and adolescent obesity in 4 decades: New study by Imperial College

A new study by Imperial College London and the World Health Organization found that childhood and adolescent obesity rates increased tenfold over four decades, from less than 1% in 1975 to nearly 6% in girls and 8% in boys in 2016. The number of obese children and adolescents is expected to surpass those who are underweight by 2022. He...

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 10, 2017

Antibiotics before low-risk operations do not seem to breed postop antibiotic resistance

A large-scale study found that patients who receive antibiotics before certain types of low-risk operations have the same risk for developing antibiotic-resistant infections as those who don't. The study analyzed data from over 22,000 patients and found no association between prophylactic antibiotic use and postoperative antibiotic res...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 10, 2017

Moffitt researchers discover new targets for approved cancer drug

Researchers found that ceritinib, an FDA-approved drug for ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer, also inhibits previously unknown targets. The study shows promise for repurposing the drug to target other cancers with networked alterations.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 10, 2017