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Science News Archive September 2017 - Page 11


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.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2017

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.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateSep 22, 2017

Families of survivors of ECMO for heart conditions report favorable quality of life

A large study found that families of children treated with ECMO for heart conditions report positive outcomes regarding health and physical limitations. However, a higher rate of medical and behavioral issues were revealed through more detailed questioning, including learning disabilities in over 50% of patients.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPediatric Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 22, 2017
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.

SourceNICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University·JournalWorld Psychiatry·DateSep 22, 2017

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.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalBMC Biology·DateSep 22, 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.

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.

SourceThe City University of New York·JournalScience·DateSep 22, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·DateSep 22, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalParty Politics·DateSep 22, 2017

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.

SourceSoka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 22, 2017

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.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalScience·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Accounting and Economics·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 21, 2017

'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.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell Systems·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateSep 21, 2017

Trusted messages key to counter community concerns during disease outbreak

Researchers found utilizing local artists' images and dialects helped address misperceptions about Ebola treatment, involving trusted messengers for two-way communication. The study's evidence-based approach can inform message development and implementation during public health emergencies.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 21, 2017

Ultra-light aluminum: USU chemist reports breakthrough in material design

Researchers computationally designed a new, metastable, and lightweight form of aluminum with a density of 0.61 gram per cubic centimeter, making it lighter than water. This discovery opens up potential applications in spaceflight, medicine, wiring, and more fuel-efficient automotive parts.

SourceUtah State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateSep 21, 2017

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).

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 21, 2017

New study on reasons for low rates of blood glucose monitoring in type 2 diabetes in China

A Chinese study found very low rates of blood glucose monitoring among nearly 19,000 patients with type 2 diabetes before and after initiating basal insulin treatment. The data showed an increase in mean SMBG frequency after 6 months, but the percentage of patients who never monitored their blood glucose remained high.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMarine Policy·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceGlobal Aerospace Corporation·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateSep 21, 2017

How the views of liberals evolved from the 19th century to the present day

Historical analysis reveals significant changes in liberal foreign policy views from the 19th century to the present day. Modern liberals differ from their predecessors in rejecting active foreign policy and alliances, instead focusing on national interests and constitutional reforms.

SourceRUDN University·JournalThe International History Review·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalInternational Journal of Biology·DateSep 21, 2017

Exosomes are the missing link to insulin resistance in diabetes

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine found exosomes from inflamed adipose tissue macrophages cause metabolic derangements of diabetes. Exosomes carry microRNA that inhibits key proteins, leading to insulin resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalSemiconductor Science and Technology·DateSep 21, 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.

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.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 21, 2017

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...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 21, 2017

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.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·DateSep 21, 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.

IUPUI study links juveniles' views of police with likelihood of aggressive behavior

A new IUPUI study found that juveniles who perceive police injustice are more likely to engage in aggressive behavior, particularly those who justify immoral actions. Intervention programs addressing perceptions of police injustice and moral disengagement may help reduce aggression among youth involved in the juvenile justice system.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateSep 21, 2017