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Science News Archive October 2016 - Page 27


Page 27 of 44

Ultra-thin ferroelectric material for next-generation electronics

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a ultra-thin ferroelectric material called hafnium oxide (HfO2) that exhibits ferroelectricity below 450°C, making it compatible with silicon-based semiconductors and suitable for applications in novel random-access memory and transistors.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 12, 2016

Nature: No single protein determines queen development in honeybees

A recent study found that no single protein in royal jelly determines a honeybee's queen development. Instead, the nutrient mix is essential for larval growth and caste determination. The researchers' experiments produced intercastes with characteristics of both workers and queens.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature·DateOct 12, 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.

Soft robots that mimic human muscles

Researchers have developed soft robots that mimic human muscles, using muscle-like actuators to provide safe and efficient movement. These robots have the potential to be used in patient rehabilitation, handling fragile objects, biomimetic systems, and home care, among other applications.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 12, 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.

Modern roof shapes tested against big blows

Researchers at James Cook University found that complex roof shapes can lead to high forces on connections between the roof and house frame, increasing the risk of roof cladding loss. Poorly maintained houses or minor construction defects can exacerbate this issue.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalAustralian Journal of Structural Engineering·DateOct 12, 2016

Waterloo-led experiment achieves the strongest coupling between light and matter

Researchers at University of Waterloo's IQC recorded interaction 10 times larger than previously seen between photons and qubit, enabling investigation of light-matter interactions in a new domain. The ultrastrong coupling may lead to exploration of new physics related to biological processes, exotic materials, and relativistic physics.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 12, 2016

Dysfunction in neuronal transport mechanism linked to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have confirmed that mutation-caused dysfunction in a process cells use to transport molecules within the cell plays a previously suspected but underappreciated role in promoting Alzheimer's disease. The study found that treating mutated neurons with a beta-secretase inhibitor rescued endocytosis and transcytosis functions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 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.

NASA sees large eye in Hurricane Nicole

Hurricane Nicole strengthens as it approaches Bermuda, with a large eye detected by NASA's GOES Project. The storm is expected to pass near or over Bermuda on Thursday, Oct. 13, with maximum sustained winds near 100 mph and higher gusts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 12, 2016

Academic 'gender gap' similar in US, India

Academically talented US girls outperform boys in verbal abilities, while India's gifted girls trail behind in math but excel in language. The study analyzed 320,554 and 7,119 top-performing students from the US and India, respectively.

SourceDuke University·JournalIntelligence·DateOct 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.

Perceived obesity causes lower body satisfaction for women than men

A study by University of York psychologists found that perceiving oneself as obese triggers lower body satisfaction in females compared to males. Brain activity monitoring revealed a link between body perception and emotional processes, shedding light on eating disorder vulnerabilities.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateOct 11, 2016

Stiffening a blow to cancer cells

Scientists at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a way to analyze the effect of mechanical stiffness on chemotherapy treatment. The new method uses alginate hydrogels to mimic tumor and normal tissue environments, revealing that softer matrix conditions lead to increased resistance.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 11, 2016

A new 'king' -- New, gigantic, ancient armored fish discovered

A new species of ancient armored fish, Bothriolepis rex, was discovered by a team of scientists from Drexel University and other institutions. The fish is estimated to be around 5.5 feet long, making it the largest known member of the Antiarchi group, which dates back to the Devonian Period.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateOct 11, 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.

NREL to lead one exascale computing project, support three others

Scientists at NREL are leading an effort to model complex wind flow through large wind plants as part of the Exascale Computing Project. The project aims to advance our fundamental understanding of whole wind plants and reduce the cost of electricity derived from wind energy.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateOct 11, 2016

Canadian Cardiovascular Society sets new guidelines for management of lipid metabolism disorders that affect cholesterol and cause atherosclerosis

The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has published new guidelines for managing dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The guidelines recommend shared decision-making between physician and patient, with a focus on patient involvement in lipid target setting.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateOct 11, 2016

Roadmap to get new cancer scans into clinic

A team of international scientists has outlined 14 recommendations to improve the adoption of new cancer scans in clinics. The guidelines aim to address challenges such as variability in methodologies and lack of reproducibility across laboratories.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalNature Reviews Clinical Oncology·DateOct 11, 2016

Combination therapy shows promise in fighting neuroblastoma

A study published in Clinical Cancer Research suggests that combining dinutuximab with galunisertib inhibits TGFβ1 and allows NK cells to effectively kill neuroblastoma tumors. This combination therapy has shown promise in reducing tumor growth and increasing mouse survival.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 11, 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.

Study: Medieval cities not so different from modern European cities

A new study reveals that medieval cities in Western Europe had statistically indistinguishable community grouping patterns compared to younger European cities. The research suggests that social dynamics enabled by medieval cities were fundamentally similar to those of contemporary cities.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 11, 2016

New permafrost map shows regions vulnerable to thaw, carbon release

A new mapping project identifies 20% of the globe's northern permafrost region as potential thermokarst landscape, storing twice as much carbon as currently in the atmosphere. Scientists can use the map to estimate greenhouse gas emissions and test assumptions about permafrost thaw.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 11, 2016

How to measure oxygen coefficient in complex oxides

Scientists developed a method to measure the oxygen coefficient of uranium in complex oxides using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The new technique provides accurate information on uranium oxidation state, essential for creating nuclear reactor fuel, waste disposal templates, and environmental rehabilitation technologies.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateOct 11, 2016

New study reveals major racial bias in leading genomics databases

A recent study found a measurable bias toward European ancestry data in top genomic databases, with African ancestry data underrepresented. This bias can lead to inaccurate medical genetic diagnoses and higher costs, highlighting the need for greater diversity in genomic databases.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 11, 2016

Chaos in cosmos: Stars with three planet-forming discs of gas

Researchers have observed a binary star system with two stars and three rotating planet-forming accretion discs, all misaligned with each other. The discovery challenges current understanding of planetary system formation and prompts further study to understand the physics behind this unusual system.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 11, 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.

Annual UK cancer cases set to soar to half a million in less than 20 years

A study published in the British Journal of Cancer predicts that more than 352,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK by 2035, a rise of 150,000 cases annually. The projected increase is largely attributed to an ageing and growing population, as well as lifestyle factors such as obesity and smoking.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateOct 11, 2016

Networking can cut 2 ways for employers, employees

Research found that internal networking behaviors promote job satisfaction and reduced turnover, while external networking increases the likelihood of leaving a company. Employers can increase opportunities for internal networking to retain talent, balancing work-life interaction.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPersonnel Psychology·DateOct 11, 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.

New approach may be key to improving US population health

Researchers propose a national systems-thinking approach to population health, considering how components interact and optimizing the design of the system. This approach aims to share metrics across federal, state, and local levels, improving quality and quantity of life.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSystems Research and Behavioral Science·DateOct 11, 2016

Novel microwave-induced photodynamic therapy could target deeply situated tumors

Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington have developed a novel microwave-induced photodynamic therapy that can target deeply situated tumors. The treatment uses microwaves to activate photosensitive nanoparticles, producing tissue-heating effects that ultimately lead to cell death.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Biomedical Nanotechnology·DateOct 11, 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.

Eggs from small flocks just as likely to contain Salmonella enteritidis

A six-month study in Pennsylvania found that eggs from small flocks have a higher prevalence of Salmonella enteritidis than those from large commercial flocks. The bacteria was present in internal and external egg contents, highlighting the need for education and quality-assurance practices in backyard and small layer flocks.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 11, 2016

Recharging on stable, amorphous silicon

Researchers have developed a porous amorphous silicon modification that compensates for the disadvantages of crystalline silicon in lithium ion batteries. The resulting material exhibits excellent electrochemical characteristics with a capacity three times better than graphite and much longer cycling stability.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 11, 2016

It pays to go beyond the last word when advertising using Google AdWords

A study by Indiana University researchers found that using a combination of first touch and last touch keyword metrics improves ROI by 5%. First touch bidding prioritizes broad keywords, attracting early searchers, while last touch bidding targets specific keywords used by consumers late in the search process

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateOct 11, 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.

Study: Shakespeare play helps children with autism communicate

A new study found that using Shakespeare's rhythmic language paired with physical gestures improved social interaction and language skills in children with autism. The 'Hunter Heartbeat Method' intervention showed significant improvement in facial expression recognition and social relationships.

SourceMediaSource·JournalResearch and Practice in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateOct 11, 2016

Study finds differences in obesity rates between children/teens with and without autism

A new study by Tufts University researchers found that children and teens with autism spectrum disorder are more likely to be obese and stay obese during adolescence. The study analyzed data from the National Survey of Children's Health and found a higher prevalence of obesity in children with ASD, which remained steady across age groups.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateOct 11, 2016

The healing effect of fecal microbiota transplantation lasts for long

Researchers found that the patient's intestinal microbiota resembled the donor's microbiota and remained stable throughout a 1-year follow-up period. The study suggests that intestinal microbiota can be modified relatively permanently, paving the way for bacteriotherapy products.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 11, 2016

Genome of fiercely protective Fonni's Dog reflects human history of Sardinia

The Fonni's Dog genome study sheds light on the history of Sardinia's fiercely protective canine breed, tracing its development through unregulated selection for behavior. The research also highlights the potential of isolated dog breeds as a powerful resource for finding genes that influence health and behavior.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateOct 11, 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.

Real-time imaging uncovers mTORC1 dynamics

Researchers at the Babraham Institute successfully tagged a protein in the mTORC1 complex to observe its movement in real time. The discovery sheds light on how mTORC1 regulates cell growth and ageing, revealing new insights into its dynamics and signalling pathways.

SourceBabraham Institute·DateOct 11, 2016

MD Anderson-led study finds ribociclib improves progression-free survival for women with metastatic breast cancer

A Phase III trial found ribociclib improved PFS of post-menopausal women with hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer by 44 percent compared to hormone therapy alone. The study also showed a higher ORR in patients receiving ribociclib, with serious adverse events occurring less than five percent overall.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 11, 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.

Machine learning technique helps identify cancer cell types

Researchers developed a new image analysis technique to distinguish between epithelial and mesenchymal cells in tumors. The algorithm achieved over 92% accuracy in categorizing individual cells, revealing potential insights into cancer drug resistance and treatment.

SourceBrown University·JournalIntegrative Biology·DateOct 11, 2016

Study gives doctors guidance on reproductive coercion

Researchers found that men are pressuring female partners to get pregnant by breaking condoms and manipulating birth control. A new study provides doctors with a streamlined set of questions to discuss with patients about reproductive coercion, which can lead to unintended pregnancies and other health issues.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalContraception·DateOct 11, 2016

Proxima Centauri might be more sunlike than we thought

Proxima Centauri, a small red dwarf star, has a regular cycle of starspots similar to our Sun. The study suggests that this cycle may impact the potential habitability of its planet, Proxima b.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 11, 2016

It takes patience to restore watercourses

A group of researchers at Umeå University studied the effects of improved methods for restoring Swedish streams, including adding large boulders and trees. The results showed that while complex channels and watercourses can be easily created, reintroducing plants and aquatic animals takes time and patience.

SourceUmea University·JournalEcosystems·DateOct 11, 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.

From unknown to beardog: Findings rescue fossils from 'trashbin' genus

Fossils previously thought to be generic carnivorans are identified as earliest known members of the beardog family, offering a clearer picture of the species' phylogeny. The research reveals that beardogs may have originated in parts of what is now the southwestern U.S.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateOct 11, 2016

CNIC researchers identify a mechanism through which the Leishmania parasite sabotages the immune response

Researchers at CNIC have identified a mechanism that allows the Leishmania parasite to evade the immune system by binding to receptor Mincle on dendritic cells. The study found that the parasite's Mincle ligand weakens immune response, allowing it to replicate and be transmitted.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalImmunity·DateOct 11, 2016

Females react differently than males to social isolation

Research reveals females react differently than males to social isolation, experiencing stress and releasing corticosterone. In contrast, male mice show no similar reaction to physical stress, such as swimming, suggesting a lack of sensitivity towards stressors.

SourceeLife·DateOct 11, 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.

Dementia study lists everyday factors that may influence risk

A new study suggests that air pollution, vitamin D deficiency, and occupational exposure to certain pesticides may contribute to dementia risk. The research highlights the importance of addressing environmental factors in preventing or delaying the onset of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalBMC Geriatrics·DateOct 11, 2016