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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 409


Page 409 of 423

Scientists detect deep carbon emissions associated with continental rifting

A team of scientists has quantified deep carbon emissions associated with the East African Rift, revealing a significant source of CO2. The study found that faults along the rift act as permeable pathways for deeply-derived CO2, suggesting a previously unrecognized role in global climate change.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 18, 2016
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.

Technological obsolescence goes hand in hand with economic growth

A researcher at the University of the Basque Country has designed an economic model that reflects a country's economic evolution better by considering the relationship between technological obsolescence and economic growth. The model suggests a positive correlation between capital depreciation and long-term growth rates in 101 countries.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEconomic Modelling·DateJan 18, 2016

Eating less meat might not be the way to go green, say researchers

New research suggests that reducing beef production in Brazil could lead to higher global greenhouse gas emissions due to the need for farmers to recover degraded pastures and boost cattle productivity. This would potentially lower emissions by storing more carbon in the soil.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 18, 2016

To clean up ocean plastics focus on coasts, not the Great Pacific garbage patch

A new analysis suggests that placing plastic collectors near coasts is more beneficial for removing microplastics and preventing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. The study found that this approach could remove up to 31% of microplastics, compared to just 17% if all collectors were deployed within the Great Pacific garbage patch.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 18, 2016

Diamonds used to 'probe' ancient Earth

Three diamonds found in Johannesburg show that plate tectonics was in operation on Earth as early as 3.5 billion years ago, revealing key findings about the ancient planet's history.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 18, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists discover blueprint of body's heat sensor

Researchers have discovered the structure of TRPV2, a protein linked to pain and heat perception, which could lead to new treatments for chronic pain. The study found that TRPV2 has an in-between state where it becomes desensitized to repeated stimuli, suggesting a potential way to alleviate chronic pain.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 18, 2016

Mapping out cell conversion

Researchers developed an algorithm called Mogrify that predicts the unique set of cellular factors required for converting one human cell type to another. This breakthrough has significant implications for regenerative medicine and lays the groundwork for further research into cell reprogramming.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 18, 2016

DNA methylation pattern in leukemia only appears to be cancer-typical

Researchers found that DNA methylation patterns in leukemia cells can vary significantly across different cell maturation stages. However, the 'cancer-typical' methyl patterns discovered so far are actually indicative of the normal development process rather than cancer-specific changes.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 18, 2016

Ticks that transmit Lyme disease reported in nearly half of all US counties

Lyme disease is transmitted by the blacklegged tick and western blacklegged tick, with a significant expansion of their range across the US. The study found that over 45% of counties have established populations of these ticks, highlighting areas of high risk for human exposure.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJan 18, 2016
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.

Cheaper solar cells with 20.2 percent efficiency

EPFL scientists have engineered a molecularly engineered hole-transporting material for perovskite solar cells, achieving competitive power-conversion efficiency of 20.2%. The new material is significantly cheaper to synthesize and purify than existing alternatives.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 18, 2016

Blood cells in action

Researchers demonstrate that fast molecules in the vicinity make blood cell membranes wriggle, but cells also become active when they have enough reaction time. The study reveals a balance between thermal fluctuations and internal forces causing the cells to change shape.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 18, 2016

Weight gain through plasticizers

A study published in PLOS ONE found that phthalates, commonly used in plastics, can lead to weight gain by disrupting hormone balance and metabolism. The researchers discovered that the phthalate DEHP causes an increase in unsaturated fatty acids and disrupts glucose metabolism, paving the way for weight gain.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 18, 2016

New research from MSK highlights fertility concerns of young adult and adolescent cancer survivors

A new study from MSK highlights the fertility concerns of young adult and adolescent cancer survivors, with nearly half reporting uncertainty about their reproductive health. The researchers emphasize the need for more comprehensive fertility-related information and support services in survivorship care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology·DateJan 18, 2016
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.

Protein 'handbrake' halts leukemia in its tracks

Melbourne researchers discovered a protein called Hhex that puts the brakes on leukemia cell growth and division. Targeting this protein could lead to new therapies for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive blood cancer with poor prognosis.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 18, 2016

Georgetown professors: Congress made 'scientific judgment for which it is distinctly unqualified'

Two Georgetown professors argue that a section of the FY 2016 Consolidated Appropriations Act undermines science and women's health by requiring private insurers to follow outdated scientific guidance for breast cancer screening coverage. This action strikes at the credibility of the US Preventive Services Task Force and may discourage...

SourceO'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 2016

Ads for candy-flavored e-cigarettes could encourage vaping among school children

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that e-cigarettes with candy flavors are more appealing to school children, who also express a greater interest in buying and trying these products. The study suggests that further regulation is needed regarding e-cigarette advertising to prevent tobacco smoking among young people.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalTobacco Control·DateJan 17, 2016

Revealing the intra-cellular mechanism underlying ALS

A study by Kyoto University reveals that a cancer suppression protein may contribute to ALS disease progression. The research found that the malfunctioning of nerve support cells and misfolding of protein TDP-43 play key roles in ALS development.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 17, 2016
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.

Extra-Tropical Alex speeding through north Atlantic

Extra-Tropical Alex became a high-pressure system near Greenland in the North Atlantic Ocean on January 15, 2016. The storm's maximum sustained winds had dropped to 35 knots (40 mph/62 kph) but it was still speeding northward at 35 knots per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 16, 2016

Poverty linked to childhood depression, changes in brain connectivity

Researchers found that children raised in poverty have weaker connections between the hippocampus, amygdala, and other brain areas, increasing their risk of depression. The study highlights the importance of early intervention to foster positive brain development and reduce adverse outcomes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 15, 2016

NASA provides in-depth analysis of unusual Tropical Storm Alex

Tropical Storm Alex formed in January 2016, becoming the earliest hurricane to do so since 1938. NASA analyzed storm data using AIRS, RapidScat, GPM, and Suomi NPP satellites, revealing strongest winds at 30 meters per second and rainfall rates decreasing significantly after declaration as a hurricane.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 15, 2016

FAU researchers investigate how light behaves in curved space

Researchers used intensity interferometry to study light propagation in curved spaces, demonstrating the importance of surface curvature on geometry and physics. The findings have implications for astronomical observations and manufacturing techniques, potentially leading to new materials and optical systems.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

NIST simulates fast, accurate DNA sequencing through graphene nanopore

Researchers at NIST have simulated a new concept for rapid, accurate gene sequencing by pulling DNA through a graphene nanopore and detecting changes in electrical current. The method could identify about 66 million bases per second with 90% accuracy, potentially revolutionizing forensics.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNanoscale·DateJan 15, 2016

2-for-1 bacterial virulence factor revealed

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have identified a virulence factor secreted by the bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii, which is resistant to traditional antibiotics. The discovery could lead to the development of new antivirulence antibiotics that can suppress pathogen growth without eliminating susceptible bacteria.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateJan 15, 2016

Gregarious chimps harbor richer gut microbiomes

Researchers found that the number of bacterial species in a chimp's GI tract increases when they are more gregarious. The study suggests that social interactions with other chimps help maintain gut microbial diversity over a lifetime, just as initial exposure from mom does.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

Signs of second largest black hole in the Milky Way

A team of astronomers has detected a gas cloud with a wide velocity dispersion, suggesting the presence of an intermediate mass black hole. The cloud's elliptical shape and composition indicate a compact but low-density component and a dense component extending 10 light years.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 15, 2016

Extreme turbulence roiling 'most luminous galaxy' in the universe

Astronomers have discovered a highly turbulent galaxy that may soon lose its supply of star-forming gas due to violent motion. The galaxy, W2246-0526, is an obscured quasar with a supermassive black hole at its center, causing intense radiation that exerts pressure on the entire galaxy.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

CU researchers study hospital readmissions from post-acute care facilities

A recent study published in JAMDA found that nearly half of hospital readmissions from post-acute care facilities occur within 14 days, and patients who experience readmission have a higher mortality rate. The researchers also identified the need for invasive devices and advanced care as contributing factors to readmissions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateJan 15, 2016

FAU researchers show how mother-of-pearl is formed from nanoparticles

Researchers at FAU have discovered that mother-of-pearl is formed through the aggregation of nanoparticles within an organic matrix, rather than crystallisation. This unique process, found in nature, has implications for developing new high-performance ceramics with improved mechanical properties.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

Bone marrow lesions can help predict rapidly progressing joint disease

Researchers at the University of Southampton found that bone marrow lesions on MRI scans can predict more rapid progression of osteoarthritis. Individuals with BMLs had a loss rate of 0.10mm per year faster than those without, potentially leading to earlier need for joint replacement.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Journal of Rheumatology·DateJan 15, 2016

The turbulent birth of a quasar

Researchers used ALMA to study W2246-0526, the most luminous galaxy known, finding it's ejecting its star-forming gas due to intense infrared radiation. This turbulence could lead to the galaxy evolving into a traditional quasar.

SourceESO·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

University of Alberta researcher tracks tyrannosaur's trail

A team of researchers tracked a rare 66-million-year-old tyrannosaur footprint trail in Wyoming, shedding new light on the dinosaur's speed and hunting habits. The study suggests that even young tyrannosaurs were capable of rapid movement, challenging previous theories about their sluggish nature.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCretaceous Research·DateJan 15, 2016

France's WWII 'petits réfugiés' offered 'a voice' for first time

A new Anglo-French research project will give a voice to French children who became displaced during WWII, shedding light on their experiences and challenges. Dr. Lindsey Dodd's project aims to disrupt the established narrative of the period, which often focuses on resistance and collaboration.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateJan 15, 2016

Link found between obesity and blood clots in pediatric patients

Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found an association between obesity and the formation of blood clots in children and adolescents. Obesity was a statistically significant predictor of blood clot formation in juveniles, contributing to increased incidence of pediatric venous thromboembolism.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalHospital Pediatrics·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

Mentally challenging activities key to a healthy aging mind

Researchers found that high-challenge activities improved memory performance and brain activity efficiency in older adults. The study suggests that mentally demanding activities may be neuroprotective and essential for maintaining a healthy brain into late adulthood. Enhanced neural efficiency was maintained a year after participation.

SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·DateJan 15, 2016

Predictability of DNA markers for population-level study based on species-level variation

Researchers used cactus species to test whether regions variable across closely related species show predictable intraspecific variability. The study found that rate-heterogeneity poses a practical challenge for researchers, and screening steps are necessary to discover regions of the genome with sufficient variability.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 15, 2016

Public contributions to science increasingly common

The study reveals that citizen science has become a significant force in various scientific disciplines. Citizen scientists contribute millions of observations to research projects, with notable success in biology, ecology, and astronomy. However, the quality of these contributions is often not acknowledged by researchers.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 15, 2016

€400,000 EU serious games project to combat domestic violence

A €400,000 EU-funded project at the University of Huddersfield aims to reduce levels of domestic violence through an interactive computer game. The game, designed to educate and influence attitude change among potential perpetrators, will be piloted in Caribbean countries and the UK.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateJan 15, 2016
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.

Link between obesity and increased risk of colorectal cancer revealed

Research at Thomas Jefferson University reveals obesity is associated with a key hormone's absence, leading to tumor suppressor pathway deactivation and increased colorectal cancer risk. A therapeutic approach using the pill linaclotide, structurally related to the lost hormone, may prevent cancer in obese patients.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 15, 2016

Simulator-based training in veterinary medicine

A recent study by Vetmeduni Vienna's Centre for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer found that simulator-based training in large animal gynaecology is nearly as efficient as animal-based training. Students who trained four times on horses scored best with regard to a correct diagnosis, while those trained solely on the simulato...

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalTheriogenology·DateJan 15, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Former Hurricane Pali peters out near Equator

The remnants of former Hurricane Pali have dissipated and elongated due to strong vertical wind shear, losing its closed center. It is no longer possible to definitively locate a closed center in the system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 15, 2016

Sociable chimps harbor richer gut microbiomes

Researchers found that chimpanzees with more frequent social interactions had more diverse gut microbiomes. The study suggests that social networks play a crucial role in maintaining healthy gut microbial diversity, a finding with potential implications for human health.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 15, 2016

Fires did not destroy (as fast as we thought)

A new study shows that Aboriginal burning practices in Australia had a minimal effect on the erosion of their inhabited landscapes. The researchers used beryllium-10 to model the impact of fire on landscape erosion and found that it was not intense enough to change the natural rate of erosion over thousands of years.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJan 15, 2016