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Science News Archive October 2017 - Page 37


Page 37 of 43

'Increased risk' donor organs a tough sell to transplant patients

A study suggests that donor organs classified as 'increased risk' due to factors like drug use or incarceration are less likely to be used by transplant patients. Despite low disease transmission risks, these organs account for 1 in every 5 deceased donor organs and could lead to hundreds of additional transplants each year.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalTransplantation·DateOct 5, 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.

Study examines home health care in Medicare beneficiaries

Medicare beneficiaries who receive home health services from lower-quality agencies are more likely to experience higher rates of hospital admissions and emergency department visits. Home health care is a critical area for addressing healthcare disparities, particularly among vulnerable populations.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 4, 2017

Tungsten offers nano-interconnects a path of least resistance

Researchers have found that crystalline tungsten exhibits anisotropic resistivity, with smaller resistivity in certain orientations. The study's findings demonstrate the potential for tungsten to reduce nanowire resistance and may pave the way for new materials to replace copper interconnects.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateOct 4, 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.

Light-activated nanoparticles can supercharge current antibiotics

New research reveals light-activated nanoparticles can re-potentiate existing antibiotics for certain clinical isolate infections. The nanoparticles release superoxide, making bacteria more susceptible to the original antibiotic and reducing effective resistance by a factor of 1,000.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 4, 2017

Your brain on mental training: Structural changes and stress reduction

Long-term mental exercises lead to specific restructuring of the social brain, including changes in gray matter volume and cortical thickness. This is associated with reduced indicators of stress and improved attention, compassion, and cognitive perspective-taking.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 4, 2017

Study: therapists lack knowledge to prevent transmission of CMV

A new study by Midwestern University found that physical and occupational therapists are at increased risk of contracting CMV due to lack of knowledge on prevention methods. The study highlights the need for educational initiatives to address the knowledge gap among these healthcare professionals.

SourceMidwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 4, 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 find that accurately transcribing DNA overrides DNA repair

Researchers found that accurately transcribing DNA overrides DNA repair, with bacteria becoming hundreds of times more efficient at repairing DNA damage when the transcription fidelity factor GreA is absent. This discovery challenges traditional understanding and has significant implications for cancer research and evolution.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 4, 2017

Albatross feces show diet of fishery discards

A new study uses DNA analysis of albatross feces to assess their diet and interactions with fisheries, revealing a high level of fishery involvement in some areas. This non-invasive technique provides a valuable tool for improving fisheries management and monitoring marine biodiversity.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateOct 4, 2017

Indicator of extraterrestrial life?

Researchers have discovered Freon-40, an organohalogen, around two celestial objects: an infant star and a comet. The finding suggests that these molecules may form readily in stellar nurseries, providing insights into the chemical evolution of planetary systems.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 4, 2017

DNA-based Zika vaccine is safe and effective at inducing immune response

A phase 1 clinical trial demonstrated the safety and ability of a new DNA-based Zika vaccine to elicit an immune response against the virus, with 100% of participants developing Zika-specific antibodies. The vaccine also showed promise in preventing infection in immunocompromised mice.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 4, 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.

Pay-it-forward college financing policies examined in new study

Researchers analyze how pay-it-forward college financing programs could increase college access, making attendance nearly universal. Income share agreements may deter people from attending college if incremental gain is relatively small, but subsidies would not necessarily decrease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateOct 4, 2017

Nanoscale islands dot light-driven catalyst

Researchers create nanostructures with aluminum core and metallic islands that capture light energy, enabling powered chemical reactions. The technique allows for customizable surface chemistry and reactivity in one material.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 4, 2017

Sperm banking is underutilized by adolescent and young adult cancer patients

A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that fertility preservation is associated with increased optimism about the future for survivors, but remains underutilized by at-risk patients with cancer. Meeting with a fertility specialist and parental recommendations are key factors in deciding to bank sperm.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateOct 4, 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.

Teleoperating robots with virtual reality

The CSAIL team developed a VR system that lets users teleoperate robots using an Oculus Rift headset. The system mimics the user's movements to complete various tasks, making it feel like they are inside the robot's head. This technology could enable blue-collar workers to telecommute and benefit from the IT revolution.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateOct 4, 2017

Anxiety and depression caused by childhood bullying decline over time

A new study found that childhood bullying causes mental health issues such as anxiety in the short term, but the negative impact decreases over time. The research, published in JAMA Psychiatry, used a robust study design to identify causation and suggests that children exposed to bullying can recover with continuous support.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateOct 4, 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.

How disliked classes affect college student cheating

A new study found that college students who dislike their classes are equally likely to cheat, regardless of whether instructors emphasize mastering content or good grades. The factor that best predicts cheating is a personality trait: high need for sensation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEthics & Behavior·DateOct 4, 2017

Scientists reverse advanced heart failure in an animal model

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that silencing the Hippo signaling pathway can reverse severe heart failure in an animal model. The study found that inhibiting this pathway induces heart muscle cell proliferation and reduces fibrosis, leading to improved heart function.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 4, 2017

NASA's Webb Telescope to witness galactic infancy

Scientists will use NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to study the creation of the universe's first galaxies and stars. With its powerful spectrographic instruments, Webb will see much more detail than imaging alone can provide, allowing scientists to study how gases transformed into stars in the first galaxies.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 4, 2017

Trophy hunting is unlikely to affect evolution

Recent study in Journal of Wildlife Management suggests trophy hunting doesn't drive artificial selection, altering horn and antler sizes. Researchers argue that numerous obstacles counteract hunter selection, minimizing population-level changes.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·DateOct 4, 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.

Soil amendments for healthier spinach

A combination of biosolids, zinc, and limestone effectively lowers cadmium levels in spinach to non-toxic levels. This innovative approach aims to protect local producers and consumers by growing safe and profitable crops.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateOct 4, 2017

Intense strength training benefits postmenopausal women with low bone mass

A new study found that high-intensity resistance and impact training for just 30 minutes, twice a week, improved bone density and structure in postmenopausal women with low bone mass. The exercise program was also associated with enhanced functional performance and reduced risk of osteoporotic fracture.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateOct 4, 2017

Plants become more tolerant when living in symbiosis with fungi

Plants form a symbiotic relationship with fungi, gaining key nutrients while also becoming more resistant to diseases and drought. The fungal symbiosis increases the plant's levels of certain hormones, making it more tolerant to environmental stressors and ultimately contributing to sustainable agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateOct 4, 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.

Nebraska discovery offers clues to why Zika became more dangerous

Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have identified a Zika virus mutation that contains a sugar in its protein envelope, which may help the virus enter the brain. This discovery could explain why the virus became more lethal during outbreaks in the Caribbean and South America.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 4, 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.

Impacts of ride-hailing on crashes differ from city to city

A new study found that ride-hailing services decrease alcohol-involved crashes in Portland and San Antonio, but not Reno. The researchers suggest city-specific characteristics may influence the impact of ride-hailing on crash rates.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateOct 4, 2017

Surface helium detonation spells end for white dwarf

A team of researchers has discovered a type Ia supernova that can be explained by the ignition of helium on a white dwarf's surface, marking a significant breakthrough in understanding this phenomenon. The team used Hyper Suprime-Cam mounted on the Subaru Telescope to detect over 100 supernovae candidates in one night.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature·DateOct 4, 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.

Can census data better predict lead exposure in children?

Researchers developed a predictive model using childhood blood-lead level records and census data to identify high-risk areas. The model highlights the importance of targeting poor and minority neighborhoods with interventions and support.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Justice·DateOct 4, 2017

Night shift work linked to an increased risk of obesity

A 28-study analysis reveals night shift workers are more likely to develop abdominal obesity and experience an increased risk of obesity compared to permanent day workers. Modifying working schedules to avoid prolonged exposure to long-term night shifts might help reduce this risk, according to the study.

SourceWiley·JournalObesity Reviews·DateOct 4, 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.

W. Stanley Wilson selected as a Fellow of the Oceanography Society

W. Stanley Wilson, founder of NASA's Oceanography from Space Program and organizer of the international coalition supporting the Argo observing system, is recognized for his key role in these initiatives. He will be formally recognized on February 13, 2018, during a ceremony at the Ocean Sciences Meeting.

SourceThe Oceanography Society·DateOct 4, 2017

New nanomaterial can extract hydrogen fuel from seawater

Researchers have developed a new hybrid nanomaterial that can efficiently extract hydrogen fuel from seawater using solar energy. This breakthrough could lead to a new source of clean-burning fuel, reducing demand for fossil fuels and boosting the economy of Florida.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateOct 4, 2017

Study reveals staggering economic burden of dementia in younger people

A first-of-its-kind study found that frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) causes substantial economic burden on patients and caregivers, with combined annual costs of $119,654. The study revealed significant impact on household income and quality of life, with most patients forced to leave the labor force during their prime earning years.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalNeurology·DateOct 4, 2017

Researchers create molecule that could 'kick and kill' HIV

Researchers have developed a synthetic molecule, SUW133, that awakens dormant HIV cells and then knocks them out. The technique, called 'kick and kill,' could lower the viral reservoir enough for people with HIV to discontinue their anti-viral therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 4, 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.

Antidote to synthetic cannabis 'Spice' intoxication could be found in slimming drug

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered an antidote that rapidly stops the intoxicating effects of synthetic cannabinoids like 'Spice'. The study used mice to test a molecule called AM251, which blocks cannabinoid receptors and leads to a loss of behavioral effects within minutes.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateOct 4, 2017

Mental training changes brain structure and reduces social stress

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute found that mental training changes brain structure and reduces social stress. The study used three 3-month training modules focusing on different competencies, including socio-affective and socio-cognitive abilities.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 4, 2017

ALMA and Rosetta detect freon-40 in space

Astronomers have detected Freon-40, an organohalogen compound, around an infant star and a comet using ALMA and Rosetta. This finding suggests that organohalogens may be significant components of planetary formation materials, rather than indicators of life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 4, 2017

Black tea may help with weight loss, too

A new UCLA study shows that black tea alters energy metabolism in the liver by changing gut metabolites, promoting weight loss and improving lean body mass. Both black and green tea change the ratio of intestinal bacteria, with black tea stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateOct 4, 2017

New approach may hold the key to treating antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers discovered a simple chemical mimic of host defense peptides can cure bacterial infections, either alone or in combination with traditional antibiotics. The study suggests new alternatives for treating life-threatening bacterial threats.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 4, 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.

Delays for melanoma surgeries linked to insurance type

A study found that Medicaid patients experienced surgical treatment delays more frequently than those with private insurance for melanoma surgeries. Non-white patients and those without dermatologist referrals also faced longer wait times.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateOct 4, 2017

Resistance training prevents age-related tendon damage

A study published in The FASEB Journal suggests that resistance training can prevent age-related tendon problems, such as ruptures and tendinopathies. The study found that trained rats showed fewer signs of age-related damage than sedentary rats.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 4, 2017