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Science News Archive September 2017 - Page 36


Page 36 of 39

Aspirin-like pain reliever diflunisal blocks hearing protein

A Rice University study has found that the aspirin-like drug diflunisal blocks the action of prestin, a key protein required for hearing. The research suggests potential repurposing of diflunisal as a treatment for cancer and amyloid polyneuropathy.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 5, 2017

Mystery solved: How thyroid hormone prods red blood cell production

Scientists have discovered the key trigger molecule that helps mature red blood cells. By removing a hydrophobic molecule from serum using charcoal filters, researchers found that adding back just thyroid hormone triggers red blood cell maturation.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 5, 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.

Global 'community' rallies for the Reef

A global study of over 5,000 people from 40 countries reveals diverse communities form strong attachments to the Great Barrier Reef, regardless of geographic location. The research suggests resource managers should engage with global communities to build broad public support for protecting the reef.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 5, 2017

More durable, less expensive fuel cells

The University of Delaware team developed a new technology that can make fuel cells cheaper and more durable. They created a catalyst of tungsten carbide nanoparticles, which improves water management and reduces the burden on the humidification system in fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017

Eating meat linked to higher risk of diabetes

A Singapore-based health study found that consuming red meat and poultry increases the risk of developing diabetes. The study suggests replacing these meats with fish, tofu, or legumes may help reduce the risk.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateSep 5, 2017

Superhuman 'night' vision during the total eclipse?

Scientists at Ohio State University found a possible biological explanation for the unusual clarity of vision during the recent total solar eclipse. The presence or absence of a protein in the retina called a GABA receptor enhances night vision on sunny days but disappears at night.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 5, 2017

NASA's SDO captures image of mid-level flare

A mid-level solar flare was captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory on September 4, 2017. The M5.5 class flare may cause disturbances in the atmosphere where GPS and communications signals travel.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 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.

Ketogenic diet improves healthspan and memory in aging mice

A ketogenic diet improved memory in aging mice and increased their chances of surviving to old age. The study suggests that the health benefits of BHB may go beyond memory and could affect tissues and organ systems.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 5, 2017

Zika virus kills brain cancer stem cells

Researchers found that Zika virus can kill glioblastoma stem cells, which are resistant to standard treatments. The virus targets these cells without harming noncancerous brain cells, making it a promising potential treatment option.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateSep 5, 2017

Readmission rates decline when hospitals develop skilled nursing facility networks

A study found that hospitals developing formal networks of skilled nursing facilities have lower readmission rates among patients discharged to these facilities. The research analyzed data from eight US cities and Medicare claims, revealing a decline in re-hospitalization rates from 24% to 18%.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 5, 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.

Recommendations vary for vision screening in young children

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends vision screening for children aged 3-5 to detect amblyopia. However, the evidence for this age group is considered moderate, while it is insufficient for children under 3 years old. Early detection of vision abnormalities can prevent permanent vision loss in affected eyes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 5, 2017

High-flying ducks cross Himalayas

Scientists tracked ruddy shelducks crossing the Himalayas using satellite data, finding they fly above 5,000 metres and reach 6,800 metres altitude. This challenge likely requires adaptations to cope with lower oxygen levels, surpassing even bar-headed geese' records.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·DateSep 5, 2017

New, ultra-rare gene mutations implicated in eating disorders

Researchers have discovered ultra-rare gene mutations associated with eating disorders, targeting a pathway involved in appetite regulation and inflammation. The findings suggest potential new treatments for these conditions, particularly for bulimia nervosa.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 5, 2017

Invasive plants change ecosystems from the bottom up

Researchers found that bacterial communities in soil are structured by plant lineage, not environment. This discovery helps understand how invasive species succeed and affects ecosystem fitness.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017

Warmer world may bring more local, less global, temperature variability

A new study suggests that as Earth's climate warms, global unforced temperature variability will likely decrease, while local regions could see sharp increases in natural temperature variability. This shift is due to albedo feedback, which reduces the impact of melting sea ice on amplifying natural temperature fluctuations.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 5, 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.

How to implement Advance Care Planning for patients

Advance Care Planning (ACP) is a process where patients discuss their goals and preferences with relatives and health-care providers. The study recommends adapting ACP to the individual's readiness, updating conversations and documents regularly.

SourceLancaster University·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateSep 5, 2017

Rice U. solubility study could impact energy, biology, environment

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new computer model that accurately simulates the interactions between water and alkanes, a family of hydrocarbons. This breakthrough could have far-reaching implications in fields such as energy production, environmental systems and biology.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 5, 2017

Research shows how DNA molecules cross nanopores

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that DNA molecules move faster as they enter a nanopore and slower when exiting, due to buckling under compressive forces. This finding could inform the design of biosensors and have real-world applications in polymer properties measurement.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study shows coping skills affect women's anxiety levels

Research shows that strong coping skills and sense of coherence can help women overcome anxiety in deprived communities. Women with good coping skills were less likely to experience anxiety, regardless of their living conditions.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 5, 2017

Engineer develops key mathematical formula for driving quantum experiments

Washington University engineer Jr-Shin Li has developed a mathematical formula to design broadband pulse sequences, leading to enhanced signal sensitivity in various quantum experiments. The formula, published in Nature Communications, is the first to use analytical methods, resolving challenges associated with numerical optimization.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017

Zika virus could be used to treat brain cancer patients, study suggests

Researchers have found that Zika virus preferentially infects and kills glioblastoma stem cells compared to other cell types. A mutant strain of the virus shows promise in slowing tumor growth and extending lifespan when combined with chemotherapy, offering a new potential treatment for brain cancer.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 5, 2017

Discovery of boron on Mars adds to evidence for habitability

Scientists discovered borates in a Martian crater, indicating that ancient conditions were favorable for RNA synthesis and potentially life. The presence of boron on Mars adds to evidence for habitability, opening possibilities for life's origins.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 5, 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.

ACA marketplace plans offer fewer mental health providers compared to primary care

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that ACA marketplace plans offer significantly fewer mental health providers than primary care, highlighting the need for better regulation and incentives. The study suggests that narrower network design and lower reimbursement rates may contribute to this disparity.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 5, 2017

Safer carbon nanomaterials, by design

Researchers aim to develop a framework to inform design of carbon nanomaterials, minimizing potential unintended consequences. They will manipulate surface chemistry and test biological and electrochemical activity to optimize CNM properties.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 5, 2017

Birds choose mates with ornamental traits

A study shows that male birds choose their mates with ornamental traits, similar to how females choose males. Researchers created population genetic models to understand the evolution of these preferences.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateSep 5, 2017

Glowing cancer tool illuminates benign, but dangerous, brain tumors during pituitary surgery

A new imaging tool using targeted fluorescent dye successfully lit up benign brain tumors in patients undergoing removal surgery, allowing surgeons to identify tumor tissue. The technique improved surgical outcomes, with a 73% gross-total resection rate and perfect concordance for post-operative MRI results.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateSep 5, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

'Bee' informed: Public interest exceeds understanding in bee conservation

A recent study reveals that despite knowing bees are crucial to plant pollination, many people are unaware of the wide diversity of bee species beyond honeybees. The survey found that only 14% of respondents could accurately identify the number of bee species in the US, highlighting a need for public education and outreach.

SourceUtah State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateSep 5, 2017

NASA sees development of Tropical Depression 19W

Tropical Depression 19W is developing just north of Luzon, Philippines, with strong thunderstorms and cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center predicts the depression will continue to track northwest into the South China Sea over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 5, 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.

Aerial drones deliver sweet spot for HAB research at VIMS

Researchers use aerial drones to visualize Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the York River, allowing for more efficient and cost-effective water sampling. The drones provide high-resolution images that complement satellite imagery and enable researchers to identify toxic algal species.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·DateSep 5, 2017

Alectinib: ALEX and ALUR trials show CNS benefit in NSCLC

Recent phase 3 studies (ALEX and ALUR trials) demonstrate alectinib's efficacy in treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with central nervous system (CNS) involvement. The medication significantly decreases CNS progression, improving median progression-free survival by up to 8 months compared to standard chemotherapy.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateSep 5, 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.

When not to eat your kids

Researchers found mangrove rivulus fish recognize single embryos as related to themselves despite hunger, suggesting a chemical cue role. The study's results demonstrate an early-stage embryonic kin recognition ability in this species.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateSep 5, 2017

2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake: Results from seismic reflection data

Seismic reflection data from the 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake revealed a frontal prism, reflective zone, and subducted horst-and-graben structures in the Japan Trench. This provides insights into the behavior of large shallow slip zones and potential tsunami earthquakes.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateSep 5, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, September 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing new materials to repair heavy-duty vehicle engines, reducing energy consumption and extending their lifespan. The lab is also working on smart home solutions to optimize energy usage in homes, using advanced algorithms and sensors to collect data on energy demand.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 5, 2017
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.

Preventing exercise-induced bronchospasm

Researchers have identified the best ways to diagnose, prevent, and treat exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in children with and without asthma. Effective treatments include pharmacological interventions and practical preventative methods such as wearing face masks and selecting warmer exercises.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateSep 5, 2017

Nanoparticles limit damage in spinal cord injury

A biodegradable nanoparticle injection after a spinal cord injury prevents inflammation and scarring that inhibits repair. Mice with the treatment were able to walk better than those without, suggesting a potential new approach for human spinal cord injury treatment.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateSep 5, 2017

An overlooked and rare new gall-inducing micromoth from Brazil

A new species of primitive monotrysian micromoth, Cecidonius pampeanus, has been discovered in Brazil, inducing noticeable galls on the Uruguayan pepper tree. The larvae's low survival rate and lack of gene flow amongst populations threaten their extinction.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateSep 5, 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.

Newly-discovered semiconductor dynamics may help improve energy efficiency

Researchers have uncovered a reason why semiconductors lose their ability to carry electricity as they become more densely doped. They found that transient bonding of dopant ions with the semiconductor base material impeds conduction, but now know how to design smarter systems to minimize this effect.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 5, 2017

Large-scale study of genetic data shows humans still evolving

Researchers analyzed the genomes of 210,000 people to find a drop in some genetic mutations linked to Alzheimer's disease and heavy smoking in those who lived longer. Additionally, sets of mutations predisposing people to heart disease and obesity appeared less often in longer-lived individuals.

SourceColumbia University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 5, 2017

Gene related to brain damage in pre-term infants identified

Researchers at King's College London have identified a gene, DLG4, associated with brain damage caused by pre-term birth. The study found that DLG4 is involved in controlling the inflammatory process and may open doors for effective treatments of diseases such as cerebral palsy and autism.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 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.

NASA sees development of Tropical Storm Jose

NASA analyzed Tropical Storm Jose using Aqua satellite data, detecting strong thunderstorms with cold cloud top temperatures indicating potential for heavy rainfall. The storm is forecast to strengthen and become a hurricane by Friday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 5, 2017

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite spots Lidia dissipating

Lidia, a tropical cyclone, weakened and degenerated into a remnant low-pressure area on Sept. 2. The National Hurricane Center issued its final advisory at 5 a.m. EDT, noting the storm had lost deep convection and was expected to dissipate by Monday night.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 5, 2017

Older wombs linked to complications in pregnant mice

Researchers found that older wombs have trouble supporting placenta growth, leading to poor blood supply and birth defects. The study suggests that aging wombs may contribute to increased risks of pregnancy complications in humans.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2017

New insights into bacterial toxins

A study published in The Journal of Biological Chemistry reveals that bacterial toxins from E. coli can cause urinary tract infections with a different mechanism than pertussis toxin, which causes whooping cough. Understanding this diversity may help improve existing vaccines and create new ones.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 5, 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.