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Science News Archive June 2016


Page 14 of 40

Caribbean Sea acts like a whistle and can be 'heard' from space

A University of Liverpool study reveals that the Caribbean Sea's unique resonance produces oscillations in the Earth's gravity field, detectable from space. These changes can cause significant sea level fluctuations, influencing coastal flooding and climate regulation.

Diamond-based resonators might become highly sensitive detectors

Researchers create compact high sensitivity sensors using diamond microstructures, achieving record high microwave frequencies and quality factor. They proposed a mathematical model to select useful acoustic signals and decrease spurious peaks, paving the way for applications in various fields.

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.

Strong global economic engagement is essential for US prosperity, RAND study says

The United States can benefit from strengthening its leadership role in international economic structures and engaging with rising powers like China. The country's next administration faces crucial economic choices that will impact its power. Meanwhile, the US faces domestic weaknesses such as labor market challenges and government debt.

Research shows how visual perception slows with age

Research shows that older adults experience age-related deficits in inhibition, leading to slower processing of visual information. This decline affects their ability to distinguish between familiar and novel objects, making it harder for them to perceive shapes and objects clearly.

How water droplets freeze: The physics of ice and snow

A team of researchers proposes a new question on the crystallization of water in droplets, finding that density waves are excited before crystallization. The study uses computer simulations to investigate the freezing of nanoscale silicon drops and films, providing new insights into the formation of ice and snow.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Versatile method yields synthetic biology building blocks

Researchers have developed a high-throughput method for creating stable vesicles of controlled size using microfluidics. The approach works for both liposomes and polymersomes, enabling applications in synthetic biology such as encapsulation of biological agents and creation of artificial cell membranes.

Ultra-thin slices of diamonds reveal geological processes

Researchers used nano-scale technique to discover iron oxide mineral formation in diamonds, shedding light on the origin of inclusions. The study solves a decades-old puzzle, revealing that oxidation of iron sulphides directly causes diamond formation.

Nearly 10 million adults found to be severely nearsighted in the United States

A new study estimates that nearly 9.6 million adults in the United States are highly myopic, or severely nearsighted, with over 41,000 suffering from a complication called myopic choroidal neovascularization that could cause long-term vision loss. Women appear to be at greater risk for this condition, making up half of those affected.

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 analyzes short-lived Tropical Storm Danielle

Tropical Storm Danielle formed on June 20 and dissipated over eastern Mexico by June 21. NASA analyzed its rainfall rates and cloud top temperatures using the GPM mission core satellite and Aqua satellite.

Fish out of water are more common than thought

Researchers found that 33 different fish families demonstrate some terrestrial activity, with behaviors evolving independently in various species. Blennies, intertidal fish, were studied in seven Pacific and Indian Ocean locations, showing an amphibious lifestyle has evolved repeatedly.

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.

New statistical approach will help researchers better determine cause-effect

A new statistical technique can help scientists determine causation of effects they are studying, providing a direction for research and overcoming ethical boundaries. The approach was tested on studies involving ADHD and lead exposure, and found support for the link between high levels of lead in blood and ADHD symptoms.

How squash agriculture spread bees in pre-Columbian North America

Scientists found that cultivating squash led to the expansion of a bee species, Peponapis pruinosa, from central Mexico to California and Idaho. Genetic analysis revealed genetic bottlenecks in populations, suggesting farming practices may be causing local extinctions.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Sweden's 100 percent carbon-free emissions challenge

A Swedish study investigates the feasibility of replacing nuclear power with wind power in Sweden's energy mix. The authors conclude that a backup system based on fossil fuels would be required to maintain constant emissions, leading to doubled CO2 levels.

Experts take strong stance on testosterone deficiency and treatment

A consensus conference of international experts found testosterone therapy to be effective in treating low testosterone levels, regardless of underlying origin. The panel rejected concerns about increased cardiovascular risk, stating that the evidence suggests potential cardio-protective effects.

Significant humus loss in forests of the Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps have seen a 14% decline in topsoil organic matter over the past three decades, primarily caused by climate warming. Implementing humus-promoting forest management can help mitigate floods and preserve soil fertility, water balance, and nutrient supply.

Tracking the aluminum used to purify tap water

Researchers developed a new analysis method using magnetic fields to quickly measure aluminum concentration in tap water. This can lead to more efficient and environmentally-conscious coagulants for water treatment.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Children's nutrition influenced by local neighborhoods

A study using GPS technology found that adolescents' exposure to junk food outlets during trips to and from school significantly affects their likelihood of making a junk food purchase. The research revealed that longer exposure times increased the chances of a purchase, with females being more likely to make unhealthy choices than males.

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.

Important milestone reached on road to a redefined kilogram

Scientists have reached a milestone in replacing the standard kilogram with a fundamental constant of nature, measuring Planck's constant for the first time. The new watt balance device has an uncertainty of only 34 parts per billion, a step closer to redefining the kilogram.

Inflammation from mosquito bites may enhance viral infection

Researchers found that mosquito bites can facilitate viral replication and spread by triggering an inflammatory response in the skin. The study suggests new approaches for combating viruses, including using topical creams to suppress bite inflammation.

Odors can be measured by analytical chemistry

Researchers from Aarhus University create convincing model to predict and quantify odorants in the atmosphere, reducing nuisance and improving odor abatement solutions. The technique uses precise measurements of odorant content for on-site assessments, offering a more accurate alternative to human olfactory evaluations.

Understanding rogue ocean waves may be simple after all

A team of international scientists developed a simple mathematical explanation for rogue ocean waves, which can cause catastrophic damage. Their model uses nonlinear effects and constructive interference to predict the formation of these massive waves, allowing for improved forecasting and safety measures.

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.

The clean dozen: 12 techs near commercial use

The Department of Energy has awarded $4.4 million to advance 12 clean energy technologies, including a solar system for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and materials for more durable dams. These technologies aim to accelerate the commercialization of cutting-edge energy solutions developed in national labs.

How chameleons capture their prey

Researchers have studied the amazing sticky weapon used by chameleons to capture their prey, revealing that it has a viscosity 400 times larger than human saliva. The combination of tongue morphology and viscous adhesion makes for an efficient adhesive system.

Better soil data key for future food security

A new study reveals that the type of soil used in agricultural models can significantly impact yield projections, particularly in regions with limited fertilizer or irrigation. This uncertainty highlights the need for improved soil observations to better adapt to climate change impacts on food production.

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.

Low breast density worsens prognosis in breast cancer

Research from University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital found that very low mammographic breast density is associated with worse prognosis in breast cancer patients. Low density combined with high hyaluronan levels in tumors predicted poorer survival rates.

Better material insights with gentle e-beams

Researchers have developed a new method using gentle e-beams to study electron collisions with liquids, recording 2-dimensional spectra of molecules and measuring electronic excitation. This approach has shown promising results in evaluating quantum theoretical methods and may help identify alternatives to the greenhouse gas SF6.

Research bolsters case for a present-day subsurface ocean on Pluto

A new study led by Brown University Ph.D. student Noah Hammond suggests that Pluto likely has a subsurface ocean today, contrary to previous theories. The research uses thermal evolution models updated with data from NASA's New Horizons spacecraft, which revealed signs of tectonic features and expansion on Pluto's surface.

'Coral zombies' may spell doom for coral reefs around world

Scientists have found that large, healthy-looking corals may be 'coral zombies' with no reproductive ability, making them useless in a recovery effort. The study suggests that oxybenzone, a common UV-filtering compound in sunscreen, is killing coral and causing DNA damage.

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.

Mice fed more fiber have less severe food allergies

A study published in Cell Reports found that mice fed a high-fiber diet had fewer severe peanut allergies than those with an average fiber intake. The researchers discovered that gut bacteria release specific fatty acids in response to fiber intake, which impact allergic responses via changes to the immune system.

Core proteins exert control over DNA function

Core proteins partially disassemble to facilitate gene activation, according to Rice University researchers. Their detailed models support the idea that DNA unwrapping and core protein unfolding are coupled, with histone tails playing a crucial role in nucleosome stability.

New link found between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease

Research reveals a close relationship between Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes, with drugs used to treat diabetes potentially alleviating Alzheimer's symptoms and vice versa. The study found that dementia-related complications can lead to changes in glucose handling and ultimately diabetes.

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.

Loyola study reveals how HIV enters cell nucleus

HIV can enter the nucleus of immune system cells without dividing, a process previously unknown to scientists. By hijacking a motor protein called KIF5B, HIV manipulates the nuclear envelope to create a pathway for entry.

$1.3 million grant to predict fluid behavior, enhance oil recovery

Russell Johns and his team aim to revolutionize alkali-surfactant-polymer (ASP) flooding to improve oil recovery efficiency and production, benefiting the US energy sector and surfactant industry. They will develop methods for creating optimal chemical balances and simulate fluid behavior in reservoirs to predict oil recoveries.

The benefits of friending a grownup

A Drexel University study found that teen-adult social media interactions can aid in students' maturation process by modeling appropriate behavior and teaching self-censoring skills. The research also highlights the importance of establishing healthy relationships with adults on social media to help teens understand boundaries.

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.

Reforming clinical research to reduce waste

Clinical research waste is estimated at 85% of total medical research costs. Professor Ioannidis argues that reforming clinical research with problem-base, context-placing, and patient-centered features can make it more useful to clinicians. This would result in more efficient and effective clinical decision-making.

UNC researchers help create key diagnostic measures for gastrointestinal disorders

A team of UNC School of Medicine researchers played a critical role in amending diagnostic criteria questionnaires for functional GI disorders. The Rome IV publication updates the diagnostic tools available to clinicians, incorporating research on symptoms and patient experiences. These changes improve treatment options for millions of...

Hibernation study yields insights about organ protection

Researchers discovered novel adaptations in hibernating animals that may help protect organs during surgeries and cardiac arrests. By studying Arctic ground squirrels' ability to survive repeated 'cardiac arrests,' scientists identified key mechanisms for metabolic flexibility, which could lead to improved survival rates and recovery.

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.