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Science News Archive November 2016 - Page 28


Page 28 of 38

Penn program trains librarians to improve public health and welfare

The Penn program trains library staff to address public health needs, including housing, food, employment, and healthcare. Libraries are effective public health partners in underserved populations, says a study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 9, 2016

Ensemble forecast of a major flooding event in Beijing

A recent study used a convective-permitting ensemble forecast system to evaluate the extreme rainfall event on July 21, 2012, in Beijing. The results showed that some members of the ensemble forecasting system captured the extreme prediction reasonably well, including the timing and location of extreme precipitation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 9, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Visitors to countryside not attracted by conservation importance

A new study found that people choose to visit countryside areas based on their recreational value, rather than their conservation importance. The research suggests that even sites of high conservation value do not receive more visits due to their attractiveness.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 2016

Healthy living equals better brain function

A study published in Frontiers found that individuals with greater self-control tend to engage in healthier behaviors, which in turn improve their executive function. The research suggests a bidirectional relationship between physical activity, executive function, and healthy behavior.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateNov 9, 2016

Noninvasive imaging technique protects healthy tissues during freezing of cancer lesions

A new technique for real-time temperature monitoring during cryotherapy procedures has been reported, using red blood cells as temperature sensors to convert optoacoustic images to temperature maps. This approach potentially prevents noncancerous tissue from being destroyed or damaged during cryotherapy.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateNov 9, 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.

Three new bird species discovered in Africa

Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered three new bird species in African forests, challenging the idea of low evolutionary diversification. The study's findings highlight the importance of continued exploration and sampling to fully document avian biodiversity.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalSystematics and Biodiversity·DateNov 9, 2016

Remote sensing data reveals hundreds more species at risk of extinction

A new study using remote sensing data finds that over 200 bird species in six rapidly developing regions are at risk of extinction, despite not being included on the IUCN Red List. The analysis reveals accelerated risks of extinction for 210 species and threatened status for 189 species due to habitat loss.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 9, 2016

The thinnest photodetector in the world

The researchers found that the one-layer MoS2 device absorbs less light but produces seven times more photocurrent than the thicker seven-layer MoS2 device. This is attributed to quantum physics mechanisms, including electron tunneling and reduced recombination within the MoS2 layer.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2016

Now you see it, now you don't

Researchers created a cloaking device to minimize crosstalk between photonic devices, enabling the packing of billions of devices into a single chip. This technology could lead to significant power consumption reductions and lower carbon emissions in data centers.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

$1.8 million grant funds digestive disease research in El Paso

The university is studying how the disorder affects Hispanics and others, while also providing healthcare to more patients through free health services. The team will enroll patients to test a new drug and examine a novel diagnostic procedure for gastroparesis.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso·DateNov 9, 2016

Trickling electrons

At temperatures near absolute zero, electrons exhibit their quantum nature and form a granular medium, consisting of individual particles that trickle through a conductor. This phenomenon can be explained by quantum electrodynamics.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2016

Eco-friendly replacement for surfactants researched at Kazan University

Scientists have discovered that biosurfactants, produced by microorganisms, can effectively reduce interfacial tension and improve oil recovery. The KFU Biocontrol Lab has found proof that these biological analogues are less toxic, biodegradable, and suitable for industrial applications.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateNov 9, 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.

Sculpting solar systems

Researchers have discovered complex systems of concentric rings surrounding young stars, formed by the interaction between protoplanetary discs and growing planets. These findings provide new insights into planet formation, shedding light on the dynamics of innermost disc regions.

SourceESO·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateNov 9, 2016

My contribution to Arctic sea ice melt

Researchers have found that each tonne of carbon dioxide emitted contributes to the loss of 3 square metres of Arctic summer sea ice. This linear relationship reveals individual contributions to global climate change, surpassing previous estimates made by climate models.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 9, 2016

Most indoor tanning salons comply with Texas tanning ban for those under 18

A study by the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found that 81% of indoor tanning facilities complied with the Texas ban on indoor tanning for those under 18. The study also showed that daily use practices exceeded FDA guidelines, and most facilities indicated that burns are possible with indoor tanning.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateNov 9, 2016

Quantifying the hidden environmental cost of hydroelectric dams

Researchers estimate that hydroelectric dams increase methylmercury concentrations up to 10-fold in fish and surface waters, putting half of Canada's women of childbearing age at risk. The study forecasts higher levels for 11 other planned facilities near indigenous communities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 9, 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.

Ludwig researchers show how a targeted drug overcomes suppressive immune cells

Ludwig researchers discover a targeted drug that overcomes suppressive immune cells, leading to improved responses to immune checkpoint blockade therapy in tumors with high concentrations of these cells. The findings offer a potential precision medicine approach for personalized treatment regimens.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2016

Computers made of genetic material?

Researchers at HZDR have successfully conducted an electrical current through gold-plated nanowires made from single DNA strands. The wires, assembled independently using DNA-origami, can function well even at normal room temperature, paving the way for future electronic devices based on DNA.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalLangmuir·DateNov 9, 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.

Disability, reduced social participation associated with chronic conditions in middle-age

A new study from McMaster University finds that chronic conditions like arthritis, depression, and diabetes can lead to disability and reduced social participation in middle-aged adults. The research highlights the importance of targeting treatment strategies for patients and developing preventative health plans.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateNov 9, 2016

Particle clusters named a culprit in premature birth

A new study identifies calciprotein particles as a culprit in premature birth, a leading cause of infant death and disability. The research suggests therapies or dietary supplements blocking these particle formations could prevent preterm birth.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 9, 2016

Scouts and guides have better mental health in later life, study finds

A lifelong study of almost 10,000 people found that those who participated in scouts or guides tended to have better mental health at age 50. This is particularly beneficial for children from poorer backgrounds, who are less likely to suffer from anxiety or mood disorders.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateNov 9, 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.

Lack of plasmodium surface-protein blocks mosquito infection

A study published in Cell Host & Microbe reveals that a Plasmodium surface-protein is essential for the malaria parasite's life cycle in mosquitoes. The discovery provides a new approach to block transmission and offers hope for developing vaccines or drugs to alleviate malaria suffering.

SourceUniversity of Sao Paulo Scientific Outreach Unit·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 9, 2016

Increased smartphone screen-time associated with lower sleep quality

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found a significant association between increased smartphone screen-time and lower sleep quality. Over 650 adult participants recorded their daily screen-time using a smartphone application, revealing that longer screen-time periods were linked to poorer sleep quality and less sleep overall.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 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.

South China Sea summer monsoon onset

Researchers studied SCSSM onset from 1997 to 2014, identifying normal, intermittent, and delayed onset types. Key factors in the normal onset type include positive SST gradients in the northern Indian Ocean and local SST warming in the SCS. The study found that zonal thermal contrast modulates monsoon onset in La Niña years.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateNov 9, 2016

Researchers reveal how neurodegenerative diseases spread through the brain

New research reveals that toxic proteins in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's spread through the brain via synapses, with genetic risk factors playing a critical role. Understanding this mechanism opens new perspectives for treatment and potential therapeutic avenues to block protein transmission.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 9, 2016

Researchers restore leg movement in primates using wireless neural interface

A team of scientists has restored intentional walking movement to a temporarily paralyzed leg in rhesus macaques using a wireless brain-spinal interface. The system uses signals recorded from the motor cortex of the brain to trigger coordinated electrical stimulation of nerves in the spine responsible for locomotion.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2016

Licorice compound interferes with sex hormones in mouse ovary, study finds

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that isoliquiritigenin, a licorice compound, disrupts steroid sex hormone production in the mouse ovary. This can lead to problems with reproduction and potentially impact fertility, estrogen levels for healthy brains and bones, and cardiovascular health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalReproductive Toxicology·DateNov 9, 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.

New study points to a possible cause of many preterm births

A new study found that small calcium deposits in fetal membranes may cause preterm births, which could be prevented through dietary changes. Researchers identified a link between calciprotein particles and the development of osteoblasts in fetal membrane tissue.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 9, 2016

Will unanticipated genetic mutations lead to subsequent disease?

A study published in Science Translational Medicine suggests that individuals carrying certain genetic mutations are at a higher risk of developing dominant, actionable conditions such as cancer or heart disease. The research analyzed data from two separate populations of African-Americans and European-Americans, finding that those wit...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 9, 2016

Human health risks from hydroelectric projects

A new study forecasts potential human health impacts from hydroelectric projects on indigenous communities in Canada, finding that over 90% of proposed projects will increase methylmercury concentrations. Mitigation efforts can help reduce these exposures, particularly for those who rely heavily on locally caught food.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateNov 9, 2016

Study links shorter sleep and sugar-sweetened drink consumption

A study of over 18,000 adults found that those who slept five or fewer hours per night consumed 21% more caffeinated sugar-sweetened beverages than those who slept seven to eight hours a night. The researchers suggest improving sleep may help reduce sugar intake and break the cycle of unhealthy habits.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalSleep Health·DateNov 9, 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.

Enhanced wheat curl mite control found in genes

A recent study published in Crop Science journal has found enhanced wheat curl mite control in genes, leading to the development of a new screening protocol. The research team identified the genetic markers responsible for resistance to the wheat curl mite and its associated diseases, such as wheat streak mosaic virus.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalCrop Science·DateNov 9, 2016

Rising CO2 threatens coral and people who use reefs

A new analysis predicts that most coral reef ecosystems will be severely impacted by ocean acidification and sea surface temperature rise, leading to lost fish habitats and shoreline protection. The study suggests that policy action must be informed by data and science to combat these threats and mitigate their effects on communities.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 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.

Knowing risk factors could help catch melanomas

A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that patients with a family history of melanoma, multiple primary melanomas, or many moles are at higher risk for developing melanoma. The researchers recommend tailoring surveillance programs to individual risk factors to improve early detection and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateNov 9, 2016

Scientists develop computer models to predict cancer cell network activity

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a new method called InFlo to assess cell communication networks and identify disease-specific anomalies. InFlo predicts how cells send signals across networks to cause cancer or other disease, with applications in basic and translational research.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalOncogene·DateNov 9, 2016

$1.1 million grant aimed at preventing coal mine collapses

A comprehensive five-year study will investigate the degradation of shale rock roofs in coal mines, with a focus on moisture-induced damage. The research aims to improve understanding of the science behind these failures, ultimately leading to safer mines and miners.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 9, 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.

A warm climate is more sensitive to changes in CO2

A new study calculates climate sensitivity using Earth's paleoclimate data, finding that warm climates are more sensitive to CO2 changes. The researchers project a 5.9°C warming by 2100, overlapping with IPCC estimates and emphasizing the need for immediate greenhouse gas emission reductions.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 9, 2016

Making artificial 'cells' move like real cells (video)

Researchers have developed artificial cells that use enzymes to move like real cells, maintaining homeostasis like living cells. The lab-made cells can sustain speed based on sugar supply availability.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateNov 9, 2016

Geologists find key indicator of carbon sources in Earth's mantle

Researchers found variable boron isotope ratios in ancient igneous rocks, suggesting changing carbon sources in the mantle over geological time. The study provides insights into crustal formation and tectonic plate movement, potentially dating back several billion years.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 9, 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.

What makes Francisella such a bad actor?

Researchers have discovered a new class of proteins in Francisella tularensis that promote the growth of bacteria within macrophages, overcoming cellular defenses. The findings shed light on the mechanisms behind the bacterium's severe disease-causing capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 9, 2016

New research shows promise for immunotherapy as HIV treatment

Immunotherapy has shown modest control of HIV and identified pre-existing drug resistance as an important barrier to antibody-based treatments. The study used broadly neutralizing HIV antibodies, but suppression did not surpass 8 weeks in most participants.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 9, 2016

The golden drool: Study finds treasure trove of info in saliva of foraging bears

Researchers at Oregon State University found that collecting DNA from residual saliva on partially consumed salmon provides a more effective and efficient way to study brown bears. This method allows for accurate individual identification and can be adapted for other species, improving wildlife population monitoring.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 2016

Personality tests for fish could help boost reproduction rates

Researchers found that Senegalese sole cope with stress by their personality and can identify fish at a young age to improve reproduction in captivity. The study used operational behavioural screening tests to measure stress response and identified proactive and curious fish as more likely to reproduce.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 9, 2016

New In-Situ Combustion advancements researched by Kazan University

Researchers at Kazan Federal University have achieved a significant breakthrough in in-situ combustion, increasing the combustion front speed by 10 times. The team has also developed a new understanding of catalysts' work mechanisms, making them more stable and efficient.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateNov 9, 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.