Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive January 2018


Page 36 of 37

Study provides new insights on bone loss in women

A new study published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that more than 80% of bone loss in post-menopausal women is due to cortical bone, not trabecular. Cortical bone loss is likely to contribute to the occurrence of fractures in these women.

Noninvasive tinnitus treatment turns volume down on phantom noises

A new noninvasive approach to treat tinnitus has shown promising results in a double-blind study, alleviating symptoms in 20% of participants. The therapy involves alternating audio and somatosensory stimulation, delivered through headphones and mild pulses on the neck or cheek.

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.

Researchers find differences in infant morbidity-mortality rates in NYC hospitals

A study of NYC hospitals found that black and Hispanic preterm infants are more likely to be born at hospitals with higher morbidity-mortality rates, contributing to racial disparities in neonatal deaths and severe complications. These differences explained 39.9% of the black-white disparity and 29.5% of the Hispanic-white disparity in...

Spider's web inspires removable implant that may control type 1 diabetes

A new removable implant has been developed to control type 1 diabetes, with hundreds of thousands of islet cells protected by a thin hydrogel coating and attached to a polymer thread. This therapy could replace daily insulin injections and offer a more effective management solution for the disease.

Call for action to tackle threat to a global biodiversity hotspot

A new study reveals that an invasive Australian tree species, Pittosporum undulatum, is posing a significant threat to the global biodiversity hotspot in Jamaica's Blue Mountains. The species has already outpaced native trees, reducing their regeneration and threatening rare and endangered species.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Danger changes how rat brain stores information

The male rat brain changes how it stores information based on the safety and danger of its environment, according to new research. Emotionally charged information, such as danger, is processed by the amygdala, while harmless information is consolidated in other regions like the perirhinal cortex.

BU researchers identify possible biomarker for Huntington's disease

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine discovered a possible biomarker for Huntington's disease, which may help evaluate treatment effectiveness and potentially delay disease onset. The study found altered levels of microRNAs in individuals carrying the HD gene mutation twenty years before symptoms appear.

Math for midges that pull 10g

Researchers at Rothamsted Research have developed a simple mathematical model to predict the behavior of midge swarms, which can help protect crops from airborne pests. The model uses basic physics principles to simulate the complex flight dynamics of midges and predicts their dispersal patterns.

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.

Novel diabetes drugs sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy agents

Researchers have discovered that experimental diabetes drugs can make cancer cells more vulnerable to traditional chemotherapy agents. The combination of carboplatin and one of the experimental compounds, SR1664, sensitized lung tumor cells and triple-negative breast cancer cells in laboratory models, leading to reduced tumor growth.

Zebrafish brain repair following concussion

Researchers discovered that zebrafish exhibit significant spatial memory impairment after a blow to the head, with slower reaction times to familiar environments. Genetic analysis identified key genes involved in brain cell proliferation and migration, offering new insights into potential human recovery strategies.

State-of-the-art MRI technology bypasses need for biopsy

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology that can accurately diagnose the nature and aggressiveness of kidney cancer without the need for invasive biopsies. This breakthrough technology, known as multiparametric MRI, uses multiple types of images to evaluate the chem...

Scientists explore mysteries behind diversity of DNA composition among species

A study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution reveals that G+C composition is generally strongly favored across different species, regardless of genome size or location. The researchers used large-scale DNA sequencing data to demonstrate a correlation between G+C content and the expectations based on neutral mutations.

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.

A changing climate, changing wine

A new study suggests that climate change could force winemakers to switch from traditional grape varieties to more drought-tolerant and heat-resistant ones. Researchers at Harvard University are exploring the potential of lesser-known grape varieties to adapt to changing weather patterns.

Researchers discover higher environmental impact from cookstove emissions

A collaborative team from Washington University in St. Louis conducted field studies in Raipur, India, to quantify the true scope of particulate emissions from cookstoves. They found that emissions were higher than previously estimated, with some cases exceeding twice the levels detected in laboratory experiments.

Blacks' high diabetes risk driven by obesity, not mystery

A new Northwestern Medicine study finds that blacks have the same risk of developing diabetes as whites when all biological factors are considered over time. Obesity is identified as the primary cause of early onset diabetes in blacks, with black women developing diabetes at triple the rate of white women.

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.

Cellular division strategy shared across all domains of life

The study reveals that archaea use the same mechanism to regulate cell size as bacteria and budding yeast, with some variability in precision. The researchers found that Halobacterium salinarum controls its size by adding a constant volume between two events in the cell cycle.

Locating the precise reaction path: Methane dissociation on platinum

An international team of researchers has combined experiments with quantum theory to explore methane dissociation reactions in minute detail. They found that dissociation reactions are at least two orders of magnitude more efficient on steps than on terraces, providing new insights for optimizing catalysts.

Study reveals how the midshipman fish sustains its hour-long mating call

The study found that the Pacific midshipman's swimbladder muscles release and pump calcium ions at a much slower rate than those of other fish, allowing it to sustain an hour-long mating call. This low level of calcium release reduces metabolic demands and enables the muscle fibers to contract with sufficient force.

High doses of vitamin D rapidly reduce arterial stiffness

A study found that high doses of vitamin D significantly reduced arterial stiffness in a population with vitamin deficiency. The results suggest that vitamin D supplementation can be an effective treatment for improving cardiovascular health.

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.

Tweaking quantum dots powers-up double-pane solar windows

Researchers have created double-pane solar windows that generate electricity with greater efficiency, using two types of engineered quantum dots. The new technology utilizes a window architecture with two layers of low-cost materials, allowing for better sunlight collection and reduced energy losses.

Stress gene regulates brain cell power and connections in rodents

Researchers discovered that the stress gene NR4A1 adjusts energy output and synapse number of prefrontal cortex neurons in response to stress. Chronic stress may interfere with normal brain circuit function through this gene's impact on cellular connectivity, but altering its expression protects PFC cells from synaptic loss.

Call for improvement in post-sepsis outcomes

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association calls for improved care for sepsis survivors, focusing on strategies to minimize physical disability and cognitive impairment. The recommended approach includes high-quality early sepsis care, post-discharge assessment and treatment, and screening for pre-exist...

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.

Sensor to monitor orbital debris outside space station

The Space Debris Sensor (SDS) will track orbital debris between .05mm and 3mm in size for two to three years, providing near-real-time impact detection capabilities. The sensor will help researchers map the entire orbital debris population and plan future sensors to mitigate damage from debris.

Link between alcohol consumption and cardiovascular death depends on socioeconomics

Research found that frequent alcohol consumption is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular death among those in lower socioeconomic positions. Moderate drinkers had a lower risk than infrequent drinkers. The study's findings highlight the need to consider socioeconomic factors when making recommendations on alcohol consumption.

Exploring electrolysis for energy storage

Researchers at Kyushu University have developed a novel electrolytic flow cell that can produce glycolic acid (GC) from oxalic acid, offering a promising solution for energy storage. The device uses a polymer membrane and porous TiO2 catalyst to achieve high efficiency and capacity.

A safer route to ultrasonic therapy

Biomedical engineers have discovered a way to enhance the effectiveness and safety of sonogenetics, emerging techniques that use sound waves to control neuron behavior. By attaching microscopic beads to receptors on cell surfaces, they can produce cell-stretching effects with much less risk of cellular injury.

Genetic changes help mosquitoes survive pesticide attacks

A UCR study reveals how intensive pesticide use is driving mosquito evolution at the genetic level, boosting resistance to insecticides. The findings highlight the need for new strategies to overcome pesticide-resistant mosquitoes and control malaria.

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.

An organ-on-a-chip device that models heart disease

Researchers have developed an organ-on-a-chip device that accurately models atherosclerosis, allowing them to study inflammatory responses in cells lining blood vessels. The device can also be used to diagnose early immune responses in patients, providing a more accurate assessment of blood health.

Frequency of autism spectrum disorder in US stable in recent years

A recent study found that the frequency of autism spectrum disorder among US children and adolescents remained stable between 2014-2016. The study analyzed data from a nationally representative annual survey and included 30,502 participants. No apparent increase in ASD prevalence was detected during this three-year period.

Zooming in on protein to prevent kidney stones

Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the structure of the TRPV5 protein, which serves as a passageway for calcium across kidney cell membranes. The study reveals how inhibitor molecules attach to and close the channel, leaving calcium stranded in the urine where it can form kidney stones.

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.

PharmaMar signs a license agreement for Aplidin® with Megapharm in Israel

PharmaMar has signed a commercialization and distribution license agreement with Megapharm Ltd. for the marine-derived anticancer drug Aplidin² (plitidepsin) in Israel and the Palestinian Authority. The agreement allows for registration and distribution of Aplidn², providing access to a novel therapy for multiple myeloma patients.

Hairy skin grown from mouse stem cells

Indy University researchers created lab-grown skin tissue with hair follicles using mouse stem cells. The skin model closely resembles natural hair growth, making it useful for testing drugs and understanding hair development. The team discovered that the two layers of skin cells must grow together to form hair follicles.

Standardizing perovskite aging measurements

Researchers propose a standardized measurement method for perovskite solar cell stability, addressing the lack of comparable data across laboratories and companies. The study investigates environmental factors affecting perovskite degradation, revealing specific behaviors that distort experimental results.

ADHD medications may reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infection

A nationwide study found that ADHD medication use was associated with a lower risk of developing sexually transmitted infections. The study, which tracked data from over 17,000 individuals with ADHD, found that those who used ADHD medications had a 30-41% lower risk of STIs compared to non-ADHD controls.

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.

Silver nanoparticles take spectroscopy to new dimension

Researchers have developed a new way of organizing nanostructures that enhances Raman spectroscopy, allowing for the detection of molecules at low concentrations. The technique uses silver nanoparticles on nanowires to boost sensitivity, enabling the detection of compounds in nanomolar or even picomolar concentrations.

Migraine surgery produces 'dramatic improvements' in functioning, study finds

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that migraine surgery can lead to significant improvements in functional disability and ability to cope with pain. Patients who underwent surgery showed a large percent improvement in Pain Self Efficacy Questionnaire scores, indicating high levels of recovery from disability.

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.

Social susceptibility

Research led by Jonathan Pruitt finds that the population majority determines whether influential individuals can emerge and lead a society, not just charismatic leaders. The study uses African social spiders to show that shy, generic spiders are key to creating advantageous social orders.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A fossil fuel technology that doesn't pollute

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a process to transform shale gas into products like methanol and gasoline while consuming carbon dioxide. The technology, known as chemical looping, uses metal oxide particles to burn fossil fuels without oxygen in the air.

Is it possible to prevent type 1 diabetes by avoiding cow's milk?

A large-scale international randomized trial showed that weaning to an extensively hydrolyzed casein formula during infancy did not reduce the incidence of type 1 diabetes. The study, TRIGR Study, followed infants for at least 10 years and found no evidence to revise current dietary recommendations.

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.

Novel nanomedicine inhibits progression of pancreatic cancer in mice

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered an inverse correlation between a known oncogene and tumor suppressant, leading to extended survival rates in pancreatic cancer patients. A novel nanoparticle delivery system selectively targets cancer cells, rendering them dormant or eradicating the tumor altogether.