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Science News Archive July 2016 - Page 24


Page 24 of 36

Bicycling may help prevent type 2 diabetes

A cohort study of 24,623 men and 27,890 women found that habitual cycling was associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Participants who took up habitual cycling during the follow-up period were at 20% lower risk for T2D than non-cyclists.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 12, 2016

Selfish mitochondria implicated in a variety of diseases

Researchers at Vanderbilt University discovered that mutant mtDNA behaves 'selfishly', benefiting itself while harming its host, causing diseases. The study found molecular mechanisms that allow mutant mtDNA to evade cellular regulation, paving the way for drug development.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 12, 2016

Diabetes challenges and inspires family members, study finds

A major international study found that family members play a crucial role in supporting individuals with diabetes, but also face significant emotional strain. The research highlights the need for healthcare providers to include family members in educational sessions and provide them with resources to manage their loved one's condition.

SourcePenn State·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·DateJul 12, 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.

As body mass index increases, so does spread of multiple myeloma

Research shows that as body mass index increases, so does the growth and spread of multiple myeloma. Fat cells from obese or morbidly obese patients secrete inflammatory proteins that contribute to tumor progression. This study suggests a new treatment approach, tailoring drugs based on a patient's BMI.

SourceAmerican University·JournalCancer Letters·DateJul 12, 2016

Gas causing ground to rise near Bay of Naples volcano

Researchers from Italy suggest that gas pressure, rather than magma, is causing the ground to rise near the Bay of Naples volcano. The study contradicts previous assumptions and offers a new interpretation of the Campi Flegrei's geological activity.

SourceGoldschmidt Conference·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

NASA IMERG finds Typhoon Nepartak dropped almost 20 inches of rain

Typhoon Nepartak brought severe problems when it moved ashore, causing thousands of home destructions in China and at least three deaths in Taiwan. NASA's IMERG estimated totals indicated over 500 mm (19.7 inches) in some areas, with even greater rainfall calculated in non-affected regions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 12, 2016

Ocean warming and acidification impact on calcareous phytoplankton

New studies show that ocean warming exacerbates the impacts of ocean acidification on calcareous phytoplankton, hampering their evolutionary success and physiological performance. The researchers found an increase in malformed coccoliths in warmer and more acidic oceans.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalBiogeosciences·DateJul 12, 2016

Entanglement: Chaos

Researchers at UCSB have uncovered a link between classical chaos and quantum entanglement using controllable quantum systems. Their findings suggest that thermalization is the driving force behind both chaos and entanglement in quantum systems, with implications for quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 12, 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.

Religiosity diminishes conservative opposition to eco-friendly buying

A study by Rice University researchers found that religious identification dampens the negative effect of political conservatism on environmental consumption. The data showed a smaller gap between liberal and conservative pro-environment consumers among the very religious, challenging stereotypes about religion and environmental care.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Politics·DateJul 12, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The telltale heart of chordate evolution: Study shows model organism making do with less

A new study shows that the planktonic organism Oikopleura dioica has lost most of its genes related to retinoic acid metabolism, a vital molecule for vertebrate physiology and embryonic development. This finding challenges the idea that evolution always requires more complexity or number of genes in living beings.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJul 12, 2016

Taking a carrot and stick approach to workplace safety

A carrot and stick approach to workplace safety may not be effective, instead, QUT researcher Dr Jason Edwards is working on a new strategy that combines educative and directive methods to promote safety excellence. This research aims to develop evidence-based strategies to reduce productivity losses due to injuries and illnesses.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateJul 12, 2016

Research shows how to get more crop per drop

Scientists at TUM have discovered a plant-inherent water-conservation strategy that enables plants to absorb carbon dioxide while minimizing water loss. By activating this mode, plants can preserve moisture in the ground for later use during droughts, potentially increasing crop yields with limited water availability.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Genetics play role in character traits related to academic success, study says

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that genetics account for approximately half of the differences in character traits among individuals. Environmental factors outside of home and school environments influence the remaining variation in character, with certain personality traits driving l...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 12, 2016

Red hair gene variation drives up skin cancer mutations

Researchers found that red hair-associated MC1R gene variants increase genetic mutations in melanoma skin cancer by an average of 42% more than the general population. This highlights the need for everyone to be cautious about sun exposure, regardless of their hair color.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2016

Changes uncovered in the gut bacteria of patients with multiple sclerosis

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found altered gut microorganisms in patients with multiple sclerosis, including those treated with therapy. These changes correlated with immune system gene activity and breath methane levels. The study supports the connection between gut microbiome and immunological disorders like MS.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2016

Help at hand for people watching their weight

Researchers from the University of Sydney have developed a portable and easy-to-use method to help people estimate portion size using only their hands. The 'finger width' method was found to be more accurate than household measures, with 80% of food sizes assessed within 25% of their true weight.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Nutritional Science·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

Study finds broad range of 'independence' for US young adults

A study from North Carolina State University found that US young adults can be categorized into four groups: independent, dependent, independent non-adults, and residential dependents. The findings suggest that the concept of independence is more nuanced than previously thought.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalActa Sociologica·DateJul 12, 2016

Researchers develop novel microscope to study the underwater world

Researchers developed a novel microscope to study marine microorganisms in their natural settings, revealing new insights into ecological processes on the seafloor. The Benthic Underwater Microscope captured images of coral polyp interactions, including turf wars and 'kissing' behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2016

Wayne State awarded $1.9M NIH grant to identify memory networks in children

Researchers will investigate how memory systems develop in the human brain using unique neuroimaging methodologies. The project aims to identify spatial and temporal dynamics of memory networks in children with medically uncontrolled epilepsy, with potential clinical applications to improve their quality of life.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateJul 12, 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.

Surprising neutrino decoherence inside supernovae

A new study reveals that neutrinos produced in the core of a supernova are highly localized compared to all other known sources. Theoretical wave packet size is irrelevant in simpler cases, providing a more solid foundation for standard neutrino behavior theories.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal C·DateJul 12, 2016

Newly discovered features of collagen may help shed light on disease processes

Scientists have identified a regulatory system in collagen that regulates enzyme activity, potentially shedding light on disease processes. The study reveals that collagen defects can spontaneously form and heal, with tension eliminating defects in tendons.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2016

Genes versus chromosomes: A battle for expression in fly testes

A study published in PLOS Biology shows that multiple mechanisms regulate expression of genes from the single X chromosome in Drosophila testes, reflecting a balance between chromosome-wide transcriptional suppression and compensatory evolution by sex-linked genes. This balance has consequences for gene expression and genome evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

New clinical study shows exclusive e-cigarette use reduces exposure to harmful chemicals similar to complete smoking cessation

A new clinical study found that exclusive e-cigarette use significantly reduces exposure to harmful chemicals similar to complete smoking cessation. The study measured biomarkers in urine, blood, and exhaled breath, revealing reductions of over 75% in carbon monoxide levels and over 80% in volatile organic compounds.

SourceAspect Consulting·JournalToxicology Mechanisms and Methods·DateJul 12, 2016

Scientists move closer to developing therapeutic window to the brain

A new transparent skull implant developed by UCR researchers allows for minimally invasive laser-based treatments for patients with brain disorders. The implant's biocompatibility and ability to endure bacterial infections make it a promising alternative to currently available cranial implants.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalLasers in Surgery and Medicine·DateJul 12, 2016

Machine learning puts new lens on autism screening and diagnostics

Researchers used machine learning to analyze caregiver responses and identified five ADI-R questions that maintained 95% of the instrument's performance. This could reduce administrative time and customize questions for individualized intervention. The study suggests a more data-informed approach to autism diagnosis and support.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJul 12, 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.

Stem cells feel the force

Researchers found that stretch-induced mechanical forces downregulate thousands of genes while increasing a few in skin stem cells. This leads to changes in DNA packing within the nucleus, affecting transcriptional activity and differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 12, 2016

Deepest ever look into Orion

A new image of the Orion Nebula reveals an unexpected abundance of low-mass objects, including brown dwarfs and planetary-mass objects, providing insight into star formation history. This discovery challenges current theories and suggests a higher proportion of low-mass objects than previously thought.

SourceESO·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

Disentangling the plant microbiome

A new study led by researchers at Duke University found that breeding plants with beneficial bacteria to feed the world won't be simple. The study analyzed the microbial diversity of a wildflower and found that environmental differences had the biggest influence on the plant's bacterial makeup.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2016

Workplace climate, not women's 'nature,' responsible for gender-based job stress

A study by an Indiana University sociologist suggests that conditions associated with male-dominated professions cause token women to experience high levels of stress in the workplace. Men and women exhibit similar physiological responses to stressful workplace conditions, contradicting theories that women are more sensitive to exclusion.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateJul 12, 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.

Discovery of mechanisms triggering excess antibody production during chronic infection

A team of researchers has identified the mechanisms behind excessive antibody production in chronic infections, discovering a link between B-cell activation and type 1 interferons. Proteins like endosomal TLRs trigger proinflammatory responses, leading to increased B-cell antibody production and potentially exacerbating conditions.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 12, 2016

Mantis shrimp roll their eyes to improve their vision

Researchers discovered mantis shrimp use eye rotations to improve their polarized light vision. This unique ability has significant implications for the development of automated visual systems, particularly in underwater exploration and materials analysis.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2016

Are brain changes fueling overeating in the obese?

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that obese mice are more likely to overeat in response to environmental cues, driven by changes in the brain. The study suggests a neurobiological account for why obese individuals may be particularly vulnerable to food signals.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJul 12, 2016

Western-style diet linked to state-dependent memory inhibition

Researchers found that a Western diet impairs the ability to inhibit memories of palatable foods, making it harder to resist treats even when full. This link between dietary habits and brain function could explain why some people develop persistent desires for snacks leading to obesity.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

Breastfeeding gaps between white, black, and Hispanic mothers in the US

A recent study by Chapman University found significant racial disparities in breastfeeding rates among US mothers, with Black mothers being nine times more likely to receive formula in the hospital than white mothers. The research also identified higher poverty rates and lower education levels as contributing factors, while a strong fa...

SourceChapman University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 12, 2016

UNIST engineers octopus-inspired smart adhesive pads

A team of scientists from Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) and UNIST created an octopus-inspired smart adhesive pad to mimic the suction cups on octopuses' tentacles. The pad uses thermally responsive polymer to create suction, allowing for strong bonding and detachment in wet conditions.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 12, 2016

Rice wins interdisciplinary 'big data' grant

The new research training group will develop scientists with combined education in statistics and computer science to address complex data science challenges. The three-year program aims to integrate students from various disciplines, including machine learning, into a collaborative environment.

SourceRice University·DateJul 12, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study looks at program for Defence Force kids

A James Cook University researcher examined the impact of a program for children whose parent is deployed on active duty. The study found that some families benefit from an intermediary who understands their situation, and that the program has been effective in addressing social and emotional challenges.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalChildren Australia·DateJul 12, 2016

Camp stability predicts patterns of hunter-gatherer cooperation

A new study found that stable hunter-gatherer camps are more likely to exhibit reciprocity in food-sharing, whereas unstable camps rely on demand sharing. This association suggests that cooperation between non-kin individuals may be linked to group stability and repeated interactions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJul 12, 2016
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.

Tiny microchips enable extreme science

The tiny radiation-resistant chips play a crucial role in the Jupiter Energetic Particle Detector Instrument (JEDI), measuring particle speed, energy, and position with time accuracy down to a fraction of a billionth of a second. Without these microchips, satellite electronics would be much heavier and require more shielding and power.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 12, 2016