Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive December 2016


Page 9 of 32

An invisible electrode

Researchers at ICFO have created a multilayer transparent conductor with low resistance and high optical transmission, exceeding ITO's performance. The new material offers fourfold improvement in figure of merit and superior mechanical flexibility.

Satellites help discover a jet stream in the Earth's core

Researchers have discovered a jet stream within the Earth's molten iron core, moving at over 40 kilometers per year and three times faster than typical outer core speeds. The discovery was made possible by the European Space Agency's Swarm satellites, which provided an unprecedented x-ray view of the planet.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Low-carb diet alleviates inherited form of intellectual disability in mice

A low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet has been shown to alleviate symptoms of a rare inherited intellectual disability in mice genetically engineered with a Kabuki syndrome-like condition. The study suggests that correcting an imbalance in chromatin's open and closed states may improve mental function, offering new hope for treatment.

Hospitalized patients treated by female physicians show lower mortality

Researchers found a 4% lower relative risk of dying prematurely and a 5% lower relative risk of being readmitted for patients treated by female physicians. The association remained consistent across various clinical conditions and severity of illness, suggesting that patient selection did not explain the results.

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.

The man who mistook his wife for an imposter

Neuroscientists identify key brain areas responsible for delusional misidentification syndromes, a group of rare disorders where patients mistake people or places for imposters. The study's findings may help patients' families cope with the condition and improve treatment options.

Nanoparticle-based method shows promise in DNA vaccine delivery

Scientists develop a nanoparticle-based method for delivering therapeutic molecules into cells, enabling the induction of strong immune responses against various viruses and diseases. The technique, which harnesses electrically activated gold nanoparticles, demonstrates safety and efficacy in animal studies.

New carbenoid species yields unexpected reactivity

Researchers at ICIQ have designed a new strategy for stereoconvergent preparation of trans-cyclopropanes from E/Z alkene mixtures. The 'radical carbenoid' method uses diiodomethane as a commercially available and easy-to-handle reagent.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Preventing medical communication errors

A new study examines the impact of structured rounding tools on multidisciplinary morning rounds, finding that these tools can improve time allocation and reduce communication breakdowns. The use of such tools can mitigate disproportionate time allocation and nearly eliminate communication errors.

Tumor DNA in blood may serve as prognostic marker of pancreatic cancer

Researchers found a strong correlation between circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and poor outcomes in pancreatic cancer patients. ctDNA levels were associated with disease stage, grade of differentiation, and overall survival. The study suggests that detecting ctDNA could help subclassify cancers and manage treatment.

Study reveals inequalities in carbon footprints of Chinese households

A new study by University of East Anglia researchers found significant inequalities in Chinese household carbon footprints, with the rich producing nearly four times the national average. The study highlights the need for policies to address income inequality and promote sustainable lifestyles among all segments of society.

Pregnancy leads to changes in the mother's brain

Research finds pregnancy alters brain structure, particularly in regions related to social cognition and self-focused processing. The study suggests an adaptive process of functional specialization towards motherhood, with potential benefits for detecting the child's emotional state.

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.

Girls with poorer motor skills more likely than boys to be obese

Research found girls with low fundamental movement skills exhibit higher body fatness compared to boys, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to enhance motor proficiency in girls. The study aims to understand the relationship between motor skills and obesity, suggesting that developmental delays may be a contributing factor.

Bisphenol A in canned dog food may increase BPA concentrations in pets

Researchers found that short-term feeding of canned dog food resulted in a significant increase in BPA concentrations in dogs. The study also identified gut microbiome and metabolic changes associated with exposure to BPA from canned foods, which could have implications for human health.

The transgender 'bathroom bill': Who wants it -- men or women?

A study analyzed public comments on online news articles about transgender individuals using female-only bathrooms. Men were found to be more concerned about safety and privacy, while women expressed muted concerns about potential 'perverts'. The study's findings suggest that male transphobia may be linked to traditional masculine roles.

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.

Exhausted T cells

LJI researchers identified key factors controlling T cell fate, shedding light on molecular mechanisms behind T cell exhaustion. This study offers new approaches to clinical intervention strategies to modulate T cell activity and improve immune function.

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.

Culture not a factor in management styles globally

Researchers found that managers across countries and cultures respond similarly to certain situations, challenging traditional views of cultural influences on management styles. The study's findings have implications for global management training and evaluation.

Fuel cells with PFIA-membranes

A research team analyzed PFIA membrane samples using infrared spectroscopy to understand water retention. They found that PFIA is better at managing water in low humidity conditions, retaining it through a hydrogen-bonded network. This improvement is crucial for further optimizing membranes and extending their operational area.

Weight loss surgery linked to gastrointestinal complaints

Patients who underwent weight loss surgery often experience indigestion and food intolerance, especially for high-fat or sugar content foods. The study aims to provide guidance for physicians and patients considering gastric bypass surgery.

How bacteria survive antibiotic treatment

Scientists have discovered molecular mechanisms that allow bacteria to survive antibiotic treatment and cause chronic infections. These 'persister cells' can resuscitate after treatment is abandoned, leading to relapsing infections. Understanding this phenomenon may lead to the development of novel antibiotics targeting persisters.

The strange effects of thinking healthy food is costlier

Researchers found that consumers believe healthier foods are more expensive, leading to incorrect perceptions of health issues. For example, participants prioritized eye health when told about a new food ingredient, but not at lower prices.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Researchers model the way into a nuclear future

Russian researchers developed a model to simulate dislocation behavior in uranium dioxide, enabling predictions of nuclear fuel behavior under operating conditions. This study aims to improve the understanding of nuclear fuel properties and reduce accident risks.

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.

Hypoxia signaling plays a physiological role in the formation of the heart

Scientists have discovered that hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIFs) establish metabolic boundaries between cardiomyocytes to regulate maturation and contraction of the muscle. This pathway challenges previous models on heart metabolism, playing a critical role in correct formation of ventricles.

Freezing in record lows? You may doubt global warming says USU scientist

A new study suggests that local weather conditions can influence people's beliefs about global warming. In places with more record-breaking cold temperatures, residents are more likely to doubt the planet is warming. The research highlights the importance of differentiating between weather and climate.

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.

Mimicking biological movements with soft robots

Researchers have developed a method to automatically design soft actuators for complex motions, enabling the creation of soft robots that can bend and twist like living tissues. This breakthrough streamlines the process of designing soft robots, allowing for the creation of robots with enhanced mobility and dexterity.

Daily sugar intake guidelines are based on low quality evidence

A systematic review of authoritative guidelines on sugar intake found that many recommendations are based on low-quality evidence. The review suggests that public health officials and consumers should be aware of these limitations when considering dietary sugar guidelines.

Landmark Alzheimer's prevention trial to evaluate third drug

A worldwide clinical trial is underway to test a new investigational drug that aims to prevent and delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The drug, developed by Janssen Research & Development, targets the enzyme beta secretase to lower amyloid beta production.

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.

Space-based lidar shines new light on plankton

A space-based sensor has provided a continuous look at phytoplankton boom-bust cycles, revealing they are more tied to the push-pull relationship between predators and prey. The study suggests blooms start when growth rates are slow, not when rates reach a threshold rate.

Ancient Chinese malaria remedy fights TB

A centuries-old herbal medicine, artemisinin, has been found to stop TB-causing bacteria from becoming dormant, making them more sensitive to antibiotics. This could shorten treatment times and improve patient outcomes.

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.

DNA markers distinguish between harmless, deadly bacteria

A large genome study has identified potential virulence factors to discriminate new Francisella species from the deadly F. tularensis bacterium. The study provides a framework for identifying new isolates and environmental detections, improving disease diagnosis and bioweapon detection.

Investing in fisheries management improves fish populations

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that successful fisheries management is critical to maintaining productive fish populations. The research found that science-based stock assessments, limits on fishing pressure, and adequate enforcement are key attributes of effective management systems.

Dietary sugar guidelines are based on low quality evidence

A systematic review of public health guidelines found that recommendations for limiting sugar intake are based on low-to-very-low quality evidence. The researchers suggest that while limiting sugar intake is advisable, the degree and alternatives remain unclear.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Manganese nodules as breeding ground for deep-sea octopuses

Researchers discovered a new species of deep-sea octopus that guards its eggs on sponges attached to manganese nodules. The species' dependence on the nodules suggests industrial resource extraction must be preceded by ecological investigations.

Barramundi populations at risk from acid oceans

Wild barramundi populations are likely to be seriously affected by ocean acidification, which can impact fish that only spend a short time in the ocean. The study's findings have significant implications for fishing industries and ecosystem health.