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Science News Archive March 2016 - Page 13


Page 13 of 41

No more washing: Nano-enhanced textiles clean themselves with light

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a method to grow nanostructures that degrade organic matter when exposed to light, directly onto textiles. The technology has the potential to create fully self-cleaning textiles that can spontaneously clean stains and grime with minimal effort.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 22, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

BPA substitute can trigger fat cell formation

A new study found that exposure to bisphenol S, a chemical used in BPA-free products, can encourage the formation of fat cells. Researchers created a human cell model and tested the effects of BPS exposure on fat cell metabolism.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrinology·DateMar 22, 2016

Study: Brain metabolism predicts fluid intelligence in young adults

A new study published in Cerebral Cortex found that brain metabolism is a significant predictor of fluid intelligence in young adults. The research used magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure concentrations of the molecule N-acetyl aspartate in different regions of the brain, revealing a link between NAA levels and fluid intelligence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateMar 22, 2016

A new-structure magnetic memory device developed

A new-structure magnetic memory device utilizing spin-orbit-torque-induced magnetization switching has been successfully developed by Tohoku University researchers. The device boasts ultrafast magnetization reversal timescales and potential benefits for power-efficient integrated circuits.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 22, 2016

OHSU study: Tetanus shots needed every 30 years, not every 10

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University recommend revisiting current adult vaccination schedule due to long-lasting immunity against tetanus and diphtheria. A revised 30-year schedule could reduce healthcare costs by two-thirds, saving approximately $280 million annually.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 22, 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.

Tropical depression Emeraude a swirl in NASA imagery

Tropical Cyclone Emeraude was severely weakened into a depression by March 22, 2016, with winds dropping to 30 knots. A visible image captured by the Suomi NPP satellite showed a swirl of clouds and isolated thunderstorms southwest of the center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 22, 2016

Nitrogen factories in the Cretaceous oceans

Researchers found a unique cyanobacterium that provides nitrogen to a more complex cell host without photosynthesis, evolving around 90 million years ago. This 'slaving event' is crucial for the marine food web, providing bioavailable nitrogen.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 22, 2016

Plant's morning calls to prepare for the night

A study published in The Plant Cell reveals that clock genes produced during the evening are regulated by clock proteins produced in the morning. This discovery sheds light on how plants adapt to their environment through a complex biological clock system.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 22, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

How to spot elder abuse and neglect in the ER: Things are not always as they seem

Emergency physicians face a growing challenge as the Baby Boomer generation ages; they need to balance documenting findings and referring patients with their obligations to prevent misunderstandings. Two studies highlight the importance of a team-based approach, including social workers and law enforcement, to identify elder abuse.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateMar 22, 2016

Lymphoma overrides a key protein's quadruple locks

Researchers discovered that lymphoma cells break through four 'locks' on the CARD11 protein, a key component of the immune system. The protein has four redundant repressive elements that normally keep it in check, but mutations in certain regions can disable these locks and lead to cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 22, 2016

Fish bond when they eat the same food

Researchers found that fish from different species associate with each other when they share the same food, suggesting a role for chemical cues in group bonding. This study suggests that shared dietary preferences may be a key factor in promoting social learning and information transfer among fish.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMar 22, 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.

Unravelling the secret of antibiotic resistance

Researchers at the University of Leeds have solved a 25-year-old question about how bacteria resist certain antibiotics. The study provides direct evidence that ABC-F proteins 'protect' the bacterial ribosome, allowing it to continue making proteins despite antibiotic presence.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalmBio·DateMar 22, 2016

Calcium waves in the brain alleviate depressive behavior in mice

Researchers found that transcranial direct current stimulation causes synchronized calcium surges from astrocytes, reducing depressive symptoms and increasing neural plasticity. This effect is absent when blocking astrocytic calcium surges, highlighting their importance in therapeutic outcomes.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 22, 2016

Forensic researchers set standards for X-ray identification of bodies

Researchers have developed location-specific standards for identifying human remains based on X-rays of the spine, upper leg, or skull. These standards provide a consistent approach to identification with high accuracy and reduced misclassification rates. The study's findings have significant implications for forensic experts and can h...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Forensic Medicine & Pathology·DateMar 22, 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.

GSA supports symposia organized by student and postdoc members

The GSA Trainee-Organized Symposia program aims to advance knowledge and encourage exchange among early career geneticists. Newly funded events focus on topics such as genomics of adaptation to human contexts, non-academic career choices, and ribosomal DNA research.

SourceGenetics Society of America·DateMar 22, 2016
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.

Solar storms trigger Jupiter's 'Northern Lights'

Researchers from UCL and NASA used the Chandra X-Ray Observatory to study Jupiter's X-ray aurora triggered by solar storms. The findings reveal a high-energy X-ray aurora eight times brighter than Earth's, providing insights into Jupiter's magnetic field and its interaction with the solar wind.

SourceUniversity College London·DateMar 22, 2016

Tiny water flea, big cost: Scientists say invasive species impacts much worse than thought

A new study reveals that invasive species in the Great Lakes have a much greater economic and ecological impact than previously thought. Researchers found that a single non-native species can rack up millions of dollars in damages, highlighting the need to recalculate the cost of invasive species.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

Island foxes may need genetic rescue

A recent study found that the San Nicolas Island fox population has extremely low genetic variation, making it vulnerable to extinction. Genetic rescue from other island fox subspecies could be necessary to preserve this important ecosystem member.

SourceColorado State University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 21, 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.

Even with higher education, obese women run greater risk of depression

A new study by Rice University researchers found that obese women, even those with higher education, are double the risk of depression compared to normal-weight women. The study used a large population-based sample of healthy women and controlled for various factors, including diet and lifestyle.

SourceRice University·JournalObesity Research & Clinical Practice·DateMar 21, 2016

New way to treat cancer and vessel diseases

Cell biologists from Lomonosov Moscow State University discovered a new way to regulate cell motility, enabling the development of new medicines for cancer and vessel diseases. The study found that protein kinase LOSK regulates dynactin, a complex protein necessary for retrograde intercellular transport.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalCytoskeleton·DateMar 21, 2016

Grass and flowers sourced locally

A joint study by Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research found that using locally sourced seed from the same region as the future grassland improves plant growth and flowering. The researchers tested seven common grassland plants across eight German regions, discovering a correlation between genetic differences and regional climate...

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 21, 2016

Autism genes are in all of us, new research reveals

New research suggests genetic risk underlying autism spectrum disorders affects a range of behavioral and developmental traits across the population. Those diagnosed with ASD represent a severe presentation of these traits, which also occur in unaffected individuals.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 21, 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.

Bacteria's Achilles heel uncovered by single molecule chemistry

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a previously unknown weakness in bacteria, known as an 'Achilles heel', which is a proton leak state. This discovery may lead to the development of novel antibiotics by targeting this safety valve in bacterial energy metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 21, 2016

Free pap screening did not increase participation

A study from Sahlgrenska Academy found that free gynecological pap test screenings did not increase participation among women in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. Despite a low fee of SEK 11, the results showed only a slight difference in participation rates between those offered free screening and those who paid the usual fee.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 21, 2016

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite sees Emeraude weakening

Tropical Cyclone Emeraude is weakening due to a partially exposed low-level circulation center and moderate vertical wind shear. The storm will continue to lose strength over the next couple of days as it moves westward through the open waters of the Southern Indian Ocean.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 21, 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.

Reverse your diabetes -- and you can stay diabetes-free long-term

A new study from Newcastle University found that people who reverse their Type 2 diabetes and keep their weight down remain free of the condition. The research shows that even patients with diabetes for up to 10 years can reverse their condition by removing fat from their pancreas.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMar 21, 2016

Plants boost extreme temperatures by 5°C

Researchers found that plants' water-use strategies significantly impact temperature increase, with needleleaf forests and agricultural land experiencing the largest changes. The study's results are more than half the change forecast by the IPCC under a business-as-usual model.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 2016

Skin regeneration in technicolor

Researchers have developed a system called Skinbow that labels individual skin cells in zebrafish with different colors, allowing for real-time tracking of cell populations. This technology enables the study of skin regeneration and cellular behavior in high resolution, providing insights into the dynamics of wound healing.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 21, 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.

Video: Morphing metal shapes future of soft robotics

Cornell University engineers have developed a hybrid material combining stiff metal and soft rubber foam for dynamic shape changes, self-healing and improved load-bearing capabilities. The material features a unique ability to melt and reform, mimicking the flexibility of an octopus.

SourceCornell University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 21, 2016

UT center continues quest for low-cost, high-quality bioenergy

Researchers at the University of Tennessee Center for Renewable Carbon explore feedstock supply and logistical issues to develop cost-competitive biofuels and bio-based products. The study aims to determine if blending feedstocks can increase performance while lowering costs.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMar 21, 2016

New international research reinforces the link between public policy and life expectancy

A new study by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health reveals that policy changes in three countries led to significant declines or gains in life expectancy. The research found that effective substance use policies can reverse declining trends, while failed policies can lead to abrupt and drastic drops in life expectancy.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMar 21, 2016

Engineers adapt laser method to create micro energy units

Engineers at the University of Missouri have developed a method to transfer energy sources to virtually any shape using an efficient laser-writing technique. This technique enables the fabrication of microbatteries and micro fuel cells that are more environmentally friendly, highly designable, and thin.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 21, 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.

Long-acting injectable protects against vaginal HIV transmission

Researchers developed a new long-acting formulation of raltegravir for pre-exposure prophylaxis, showing significant protection against multiple strains of HIV in animal models. The study found that the injectable provided strong suppression of viral load and could potentially improve adherence to medication regimens.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMar 21, 2016

Caught for the first time: The early flash of an exploding star

Astronomers capture shock breakout of a supernova for the first time in visible light, revealing unexpected diversity in cataclysmic stellar events. The observations, made using NASA's Kepler space telescope, matched up well with mathematical models of Type II explosions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateMar 21, 2016

The center of the Milky Way

A team of researchers has found evidence for a particle accelerator in the center of the Milky Way that can accelerate protons to petaelectronvolt energies. The discovery sheds new light on the origin of galactic cosmic rays and challenges existing theories.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2016

Nanoparticle-based cancer therapies shown to work in humans

Researchers at Caltech demonstrate that nanoparticles can selectively target tumors while leaving adjacent healthy tissue intact. The study's findings suggest the presence of the EPR effect in humans, which could lead to more effective cancer therapies with fewer side effects.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

The weight of rejection

Research reveals anticipated rejection due to weight stigma negatively impacts heavier women's emotional well-being. Participants who expected rejection experienced lower self-esteem, increased feelings of shame and embarrassment, and greater stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateMar 21, 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.

Scientists say many plants don't respond to warming as thought

A comprehensive global study suggests that plant respiration rates slow predictably with increasing temperatures, reducing estimates of carbon release from plants. The research found uniform patterns across various habitats and plant types, shedding light on the complex planetary carbon cycle.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

Many species now going extinct may vanish without a fossil trace

A recent study by three paleontologists reveals that over 85% of mammal species at high risk of extinction lack a fossil record. The researchers found that body size and geographical range are key factors in determining whether a species will leave behind a fossil legacy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 21, 2016

CU study: Fires, drought in changing climate affecting high-altitude forests

A CU study found that large fires in the West followed by drought conditions are affecting high-elevation forests, leading to lower tree densities and increased patchiness. The research team measured tree species, numbers, sizes, and ages of post-fire seedlings in nearly 200 forest plots.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 21, 2016
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.

Protecting 30 percent of the ocean has many benefits, study suggests

A study suggests that setting aside at least 30 percent of the ocean for protection could have numerous benefits for conservation, fisheries, and other stakeholders. The research found a surprising consensus among previous studies on an ambitious target for ocean protection.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalConservation Letters·DateMar 21, 2016

Global warming pushes wines into uncharted terroir

A study finds that global warming has largely removed drought from the centuries-old early-harvest equation, pushing French grape growers to adapt to hotter climates. As a result, some regions may no longer be suitable for traditional wine varieties, forcing vineyards to change their methods or relocate.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 21, 2016