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Science News Archive September 2017


Page 11 of 39

Usher syndrome: Gene therapy restores hearing and balance

Researchers at Institut Pasteur successfully restored hearing and balance in a mouse model of USH1G syndrome using gene therapy, offering new hope for the treatment of hereditary deafness. The study demonstrates that inner ear defects caused by mutations in the USH1G gene can be reversed even after birth with durable efficacy.

QUT creates Australia's first lithium-ion battery

QUT researchers have developed Australia's first pilot facility to produce commercial grade lithium-ion batteries, utilizing processes that enable extremely safe and efficient batteries. The facility can rapidly prototype new battery formulations and cell types, potentially kick-starting an Australian battery manufacturing industry.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smartphone apps reduce depression

Researchers found that smartphone apps significantly reduced people's depressive symptoms, suggesting these new digital therapies can be useful for managing the condition. The studies involved over 3400 participants and found that standalone apps were more effective than others.

Crowning the 'King of the Crops': Sequencing the white Guinea yam genome

A breakthrough in sequencing the white Guinea yam genome has opened up possibilities for improving the staple crop's yields, sustainability, and disease resistance. This achievement will help farmers increase productivity and transform yams from a neglected 'orphan' crop to a more domesticated and economically viable food source.

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.

From galaxies far far away!

The Pierre Auger Collaboration reports that cosmic rays with energies a million times greater than the protons accelerated in the Large Hadron Collider come from much further away. The study discovered an anisotropy in the arrival directions of over 30,000 cosmic particles, indicating an extragalactic origin.

Tackling air pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa

The University of Portsmouth's AIR Network aims to address the significant contributor to respiratory and cardiovascular disease in low-resource settings. By engaging with local communities through arts, theatre, and other methods, researchers will explore co-creating viable interventions to reduce exposure to air pollution.

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.

Are you happy you voted -- or didn't?

A study published in Party Politics found that 97% of voters were glad they participated, while 60% of non-voters regretted not voting. People who feel morally duty-bound to vote and those interested in politics are more likely to be satisfied with their decision.

Solidarity between good and justice keeps a society together

Researchers found that a norm of solo reciprocity is insufficient to maintain cooperation, but can work in solidarity with unconditional cooperators. A society with solidarity between norms is more cooperative than one with solo reciprocity, according to the study.

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.

New analysis explains role of defects in metal oxides

Researchers at MIT discovered that imperfections in metal oxide materials can alter their properties, enabling new types of low-energy computer memory and processing devices. The findings provide a theoretical framework to understand the effects of defects on material stability and structure under strong electric fields.

The surprising, ancient behavior of jellyfish

Researchers have found that jellyfish, like humans, enter a state of reduced activity at night and exhibit an increased sleep drive when deprived of sleep. This discovery suggests that sleep is an ancient behavior, largely untouched by evolution.

Rapid imaging of granular matter

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new technique using magnetic resonance imaging to study granular systems, enabling real-time imaging and measurement of particle velocities. This breakthrough has potential applications in fields such as carbon capture and could lead to higher efficiency and energy savings.

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 links brain inflammation to suicidal thinking in depression

A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry has found a link between brain inflammation and suicidal thinking in patients with major depressive disorder. Researchers at the University of Manchester discovered increased levels of microglial activation in brains of living patients with MDD who were experiencing suicidal thoughts.

In US, spread of Zika linked to time outdoors

A study by Northeastern University expert Marco Ajelli found that people who spend less time outdoors are less likely to contract the Zika virus. However, a small group of people who spend large amounts of time outdoors are at high risk for infection and can spread the disease quickly.

Detecting cosmic rays from a galaxy far, far away

The Pierre Auger Collaboration has discovered an anisotropy in the arrival directions of cosmic rays above 8 × 10^18 eV, indicating extragalactic origin. This discovery sheds light on the nature of cosmic rays and their possible sources, with further studies underway to pinpoint the locations.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Alternative splicing, an important mechanism for cancer

Researchers analyze data from over 4,000 cancer patients and discover that changes in alternative splicing lead to a loss of functional protein domains, affecting gene function in a manner similar to genetic mutations. This study reveals the potential oncogenic power of these changes, enabling healthy cells to become cancerous.

Smart staffers: Why educated areas are good for business

Research by University of Georgia finds that highly educated non-executive employees generate and review accounting reports, catching errors or fraud more often than auditors and regulators. This improves a firm's external financial reporting accuracy and reduces manipulation in SEC filings.

Lightning-fast trappers

Researchers discovered that bladderwort traps suck in prey like water fleas at incredible speeds, decelerating them before trapping. Comparative analyses of different species revealed unique trap entrance structures and movement patterns adapted to various habitats.

'Labyrinth' chip could help monitor aggressive cancer stem cells

A new chip etched with fluid channels sends blood samples through a hydrodynamic maze to separate out rare circulating cancer cells into a relatively clean stream for analysis. The labyrinth chip is already in use in a breast cancer clinical trial, enabling doctors to plan customized treatments and monitor genetic changes.

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.

From self-folding robots to computer vision

Researchers from UC San Diego showcase self-folding robots, robotic endoscopes, and improved computer vision techniques to enhance human-robot collaboration. The conference focuses on developing friendly robots that can work effectively with humans in various domains.

Locking down the big bang of immune cells

Scientists at UC San Diego uncover a previously unknown link between non-coding DNA regions and the formation of immune cells. The discovery reveals a precise mechanism for the pairing of promoter and enhancer elements, which brings them into close proximity to initiate immune cell development.

UMN researchers find recipe for forest restoration

Researchers found that tree species with drought tolerance traits and soil amendments like rice hulls and hydrogel improved seedling survival. The study provides a general approach to screen native tree species for restoration, offering hope for restoring tropical dry forests.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Air pollution may have damaging effects on the kidneys

A study found a linear relationship between air pollution levels and the risk of experiencing kidney function decline and developing kidney disease or failure. The results suggest that particulate matter above the EPA's recommended limit is associated with new cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Mitochondria drive cell survival in times of need

Researchers at McGill University have discovered that mitochondria play a key role in preventing cells from dying when nutrients are scarce. The findings suggest that targeting the mTOR pathway could lead to the development of new cancer therapies that promote cell death.

Signs of sleep seen in jellyfish

Researchers observed reduced pulsing activity at night and delayed responses to stimulation in the upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea. The findings suggest that jellyfish do indeed sleep, but the study also raises more questions about the origin of sleep and its relationship with neural systems.

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.

Tiny Brazilian frogs are deaf to their own calls

Two species of pumpkin toadlets have been found to be deaf to their own calls, a phenomenon that persists even after the target audience has lost the ability to detect it. This is due to the vestigial high-frequency hearing part in their ears, which may have been replaced by visual communication.

Baltimore Ecosystem Study partners with Baltimore City Public Schools

The Baltimore Ecosystem Study is integrating local data into the city's high school chemistry curriculum, aligning with Next Generation Science Standards and incorporating Earth science concepts. The initiative aims to make chemistry more relevant and engaging for students by exploring local environmental concerns.

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.

Strong alcohol policies help reduce alcohol-involved homicides

A new study found that stronger alcohol policies, including taxes and sales restrictions, can reduce the likelihood of alcohol involvement among homicide victims. This policy change resulted in a 1% reduction in likelihood of alcohol involvement for every 1% increase in policy restrictiveness.

Babies can learn that hard work pays off

A study found that babies who watched an adult struggle before succeeding tried harder at their own difficult task compared to those who saw an adult succeed effortlessly. The researchers also discovered that direct interactions made a difference in how hard the babies tried.

Better rechargeable batteries coming soon?

Researchers have developed a novel coating that prevents side-reactions and promotes uniform lithium deposition, leading to improved battery performance. The new indium-lithium hybrid electrodes showed stability over 250 cycles with high capacity retention.

Going diving in the tropics? Don't eat the reef fish!

A new study suggests that Palau's reefs can be better maintained by shifting seafood consumption to open water fish. The health of reefs is critical for local communities' culture, food security and livelihoods. Researchers recommend a 70% reduction in reef fish consumption to mitigate climate change impacts.

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.

Global Aerospace Corporation to present Pluto lander concept to NASA

The Global Aerospace Corporation has developed a Pluto lander concept that uses drag from the ultra-thin atmosphere to decelerate and gently land on the surface of Pluto. The lander-hopper can then hop around the surface, investigating surface features and performing science measurements.

Production of key diabetes cells can be improved

Researchers have developed a better understanding of how to improve the production of beta cells, the cells responsible for insulin regulation in diabetics. The study shows that genes NXK6.1 and MNX1 play a crucial role in the development of beta cells.

Rapid hepatitis C testing may help better screen young adults

A new study found that routine and rapid hepatitis C virus testing among young adults who use injection drugs significantly improves life expectancy. The test results are available on the same day as the sample is drawn, increasing the quality of life for this patient population.

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.

Understanding the dance to save the dance

Researchers investigate the effects of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions, exploring new techniques for measuring floral cues, rewards, and pollinator behavior. Studies reveal diverse tactics being used to deepen understanding of these complex relationships in a changing environment.

Development of an artificial orchid cultivation kit

Researchers have created a low-cost, DIY kit for growing orchids from seed, which can lead to the preservation of endangered species and efficient seed conservation. The kit's high humidity levels and symbiotic mycorrhizal fungi facilitate germination and growth.

Application of air-sensitive semiconductors in nanoelectronics

Gallium selenide, a 2D semiconductor, loses electrical conductivity in air due to oxidation, hindering its application in nanoelectronic devices. Encapsulating GaSe in vacuum-manufactured devices with protective layers can maintain its optoelectronic properties.

When good immune cells turn bad

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles identified a molecular pathway in an immune cell called a tumor-associated macrophage that supports neuroblastoma, a pediatric cancer. Targeting the STAT3 pathway with a clinically available drug may be a promising approach to improve outcomes for children with high-risk neuroblastoma.

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.

Football helmet smartfoam signals potential concussions in real time

Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a nano composite smartfoam that measures the impact of hits via electrical signals, collecting data in real time to determine impact severity and location. The technology has shown 90% accuracy in measuring concussion risks, revolutionizing football safety protocols.

Touching helps build the sexual brain

A new study published in PLOS Biology found that sexual touch can contribute substantially to the acceleration of puberty in rats. The researchers observed that young female rats housed with male rats experienced an expansion of their genital cortex, a finding that was not seen in females housed with other females or males separated by...

No magic pill to cure alcohol dependence yet

A new systematic review of 32 clinical trials found low to medium efficacy in reducing drinking for these medications, but with high risk of bias. Researchers call for better studies to determine the effectiveness of these treatments.