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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 101


Page 101 of 461

Satellites map photosynthesis at high resolution

Scientists have made a major step forward in quantifying photosynthesis by mapping solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence with high spatial resolution from the NASA satellite OCO-2. This enables them to scale SIF to gross primary production across different vegetation types.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience·DateOct 12, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An evolving sticky situation

Researchers studied the evolution of sticky toe pads in lizards, finding that geckos took an 'adaptive stumble' approach, while anoles committed to a single type. This divergence highlights the complex nature of evolutionary processes and challenges assumptions about the predictability of evolution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEvolution·DateOct 12, 2017

Physicist named a 2017 CIFAR Azrieli Global scholar

Nathaniel Gabor, an assistant professor of physics at UC Riverside, has been awarded the prestigious 2017 CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholar program. As a recipient, he will receive $100,000 in research support and join a global community of top researchers in his area of research on bio-inspired solar energy.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateOct 12, 2017

Lehigh to present research out of newly-launched Bioengineering Dept. at BMES

The newly established Department of Bioengineering at Lehigh University is presenting its research at the annual meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) in Phoenix, Arizona. The department's faculty includes 17 members with academic appointments in bioengineering and an additional 17 affiliated members. Their research is s...

SourceLehigh University·DateOct 12, 2017
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.

3-D packaging of DNA regulates cell identity

A Penn study suggests that DNA 3D packaging controls which genes are available for activation, influencing cell differentiation. The researchers found that tethering DNA to the nuclear periphery with an epigenetic enzyme contributes to a cell becoming a certain type.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateOct 12, 2017
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.

Researchers make headway in desalination technology

Engineers at the University of Illinois have made a breakthrough in developing a saltwater desalination process that is potentially cheaper than reverse osmosis. The new technology uses a battery-like device to remove salts from brackish water, opening up possibilities for inland and industrial sources. Further research is needed to de...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateOct 12, 2017

IUPUI developing, testing tools to predict crime, other social harms

Researchers at IUPUI are developing a system to predict where and when social harm events like crime, traffic crashes, and medical emergencies will occur. The project aims to provide data-driven insights to stakeholders, enabling them to allocate resources effectively and improve community quality of life.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·DateOct 12, 2017

New UK-India scheme to tackle antimicrobial resistance announced

A new five-year program will support 25 visiting professorships and two major scientific meetings between the UK and India to address antimicrobial resistance. The initiative aims to share knowledge, foster research collaborations and increase awareness to develop robust interventions against AMR.

SourceAcademy of Medical Sciences (UK)·DateOct 12, 2017

Don't dispense of cannabis dispensaries, caution UBC researchers

A recent study published in the International Journal of Drug Policy found that customers prefer independent storefronts for buying cannabis over growing their own or getting it from dealers. The researchers argue that this 'store-front' system should remain when recreational marijuana use becomes legal.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateOct 12, 2017
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.

NASA's GPM finds Ophelia strengthening in Eastern Atlantic

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission found Ophelia's heaviest rainfall south of the center, with rain falling at a rate of almost 3.2 inches per hour. The storm strengthened into a hurricane on Oct. 11, with maximum sustained winds near 90 mph and higher gusts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 12, 2017

Workers at smaller companies less likely to be screened for cancer

A new study by American Cancer Society investigators finds workers at organizations with fewer than 25 employees are less likely to have been screened for three cancers. After adjusting for socioeconomic factors and insurance status, most of the difference in screening rates disappears.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateOct 12, 2017

NASA gains valuable insights into the global carbon cycle

The OCO-2 mission gathers data on natural land and ocean sinks, revealing changes in the carbon cycle across seasons and regions. The studies highlight the effects of El Niño on carbon emissions, including increased releases from biomass burning in tropical Asia and lower precipitation in South America.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 12, 2017

Carbon dioxide levels lower than thought during super greenhouse period

A new study from Dartmouth College suggests that carbon dioxide levels during the early Eocene period, a so-called 'super greenhouse' era, were lower than previously thought, around 1000 ppm. This finding challenges current climate models and provides important information about the planet's past climate history.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateOct 12, 2017
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.

MD Anderson team selected for national push to expand immunotherapy

The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center has been selected as one of four national Cancer Immune Monitoring and Analysis Centers (CIMACs) under the Partnership for Accelerating Cancer Therapies (PACT). CIMACs will provide expertise in systematic collection, processing, and analysis of blood and tumor samples to improve immun...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateOct 12, 2017

An understanding of pigmentation that is more than just skin deep

Scientists sequenced genomes of 2,092 Africans to uncover genetic basis of skin pigmentation, finding a light pigmentation variant introduced by gene flow from non-Africans. The study also identified the MFSD12 region as crucial for melanogenesis, a process in which skin produces pigment.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 12, 2017

Reducing racial bias in children

Researchers teach Chinese children to identify black male faces, reducing implicit bias that lasts for at least two months. A second training session boosts effects and has a longer-lasting impact.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalChild Development·DateOct 12, 2017
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.

Study reveals new threat to the ozone layer

Researchers discovered increasing emissions of short-lived ozone-depleting chemicals in East Asia, threatening the recovery of the ozone layer. The study found dichloromethane and 1,2-dichloroethane in large amounts, which can be carried up into the stratosphere and cause damage.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateOct 12, 2017

Herbivores help protect ecosystems from climate change

Researchers found that herbivores, such as limpets, play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem diversity and resilience. By controlling temperatures and promoting biodiversity, these species can mitigate the effects of climate change on intertidal ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 11, 2017

Rice U. lab surprised by ultraflat magnets

Researchers at Rice University created ultraflat magnets with magnetic properties by adding rhenium to two-dimensional materials, expanding possibilities for spintronic devices. The discovery was made using chemical vapor deposition and doping techniques.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 11, 2017
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.

A defense mechanism to kill intestinal worms

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have identified an enzyme that disrupts vital cell processes in intestinal worms, potentially leading to new vaccine or drug development. The discovery could also help combat emerging drug-resistant worm infections.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateOct 11, 2017

Low-cost battery from waste graphite

Researchers developed a low-cost battery using waste graphite, offering high safety and simplicity in production. The battery features a unique cathode material and can withstand thousands of charging cycles.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 11, 2017

Frankincense tested as possible breast, colon cancer treatment

A clinical trial led by Medical University of South Carolina is investigating frankincense as a possible treatment for breast and colon cancer. The study aims to assess whether boswellic acid, an extract from Indian frankincense, can reduce inflammation and slow tumor growth.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateOct 11, 2017

Can you hear me now? Ensuring good cellular connections in the brain

Salk Institute scientists discovered that astrocytes induce communication between pairs of neurons early in development through glypican 4. The protein increases receptors on postsynaptic neurons, enabling active connections. This breakthrough offers a promising therapeutic target for neurological disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateOct 11, 2017

Predatory bacteria: The quest for a new class of antibiotics

Researchers at OIST have identified genetic manipulation tools for B. bacteriovorus, a type of predatory bacteria that can be used as a living antibiotic to treat various infections. The study also explores potential applications in organic food production and industry.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateOct 11, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Injecting electrons jolts 2-D structure into new atomic pattern

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have found a way to reversibly change the atomic structure of a 2-D material by injecting electrons, using far less energy than current methods. This process has potential for new electronic memory and low-power switching in ultra-thin devices.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 11, 2017

Some plants grow bigger -- and meaner -- when clipped, study finds

Researchers found that clipping plants can trigger an increase in defensive chemistry, leading to greater reproductive success. By manipulating a molecular pathway, the team was able to enhance seed production and defensive compound expression in plants.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEcology·DateOct 11, 2017

Engineers identify key to albatross' marathon flight

Engineers at MIT developed a new model to simulate dynamic soaring in albatrosses, finding that shallow arcs help birds stay aloft with less effort. The research also sheds light on the optimal flight pattern for wind-propelled drones and gliders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalInterface·DateOct 11, 2017

Omega-6 fats may help prevent type 2 diabetes

A new study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology suggests that a diet rich in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats may significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that individuals with higher levels of linoleic acid, the major omega-6 fat, had a lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateOct 11, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Researchers shift focus to adolescents struggling to read

The University of Houston-led Texas Center for Learning Disabilities will tackle the issue of adolescents struggling to read with an $8.4 million grant. The team, led by experts in psychology and education, aims to develop effective interventions to help English learners and students with reading difficulties.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 11, 2017

BU researchers question: Can an app reduce cardiac risks?

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine are developing an app to capture health data using mobile devices, with the goal of reducing cardiac risks. The project aims to test various approaches to getting people to use these technologies over long periods of time and compare mobile health data collected in the research center.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateOct 11, 2017

An engineer's guide to the embryo

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are studying the mechanics of morphogenesis in frog embryos to better understand human development, birth defects, and cancer. By applying structural analysis principles, they aim to develop a tool that provides bioengineers with greater control over tissue self-assembly.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 11, 2017

A portable bedside brain scanner for babies

A new, portable brain scanner has been developed to image infant brain activity in a clinical setting. The device weighs just 40 grams and can distinguish between quiet and active sleep states, as well as detect seizures with high resolution.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 11, 2017

Watching wildfires

A University of Missouri team created a Physical Chemical Fire Frequency Model to understand how climate influences wildfire frequency. The model uses temperature and precipitation variables to predict wildfire patterns across different regions. By analyzing global wildfire data, the researchers have identified predictable patterns in ...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 11, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

TSRI chemists use modified DNA nucleotides to create new materials

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have developed a method for creating modified DNA-based hydrogels with unique properties. These hydrogels can be dissolved, reformed, and retain their biochemical activity, making them suitable for various applications such as drug delivery and cell growth.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 11, 2017

A specific protein regulates the burning of body fat to generate heat

A study published in Nature Communications identifies MKK6 as a key protein controlling white-to-brown fat conversion. This process enables lipids to be burned for heat instead of stored, potentially reducing obesity. Mice lacking MKK6 exhibit reduced body weight and protection against obesity.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 11, 2017

The making of medieval bling

Researchers discovered medieval artisans used an ancient method to coat silver threads with gold, revealing a technique that endured for centuries. The study employed lab techniques to characterize the chemistry of the threads and strips, showing the gold coating was applied using heat and hammering.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 11, 2017
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.

Our brain omits grammatical elements when it has limited resources

Researchers found that individuals with agrammatic aphasia omit grammatical pronouns due to cognitive resource limitations. The study suggests a new usage-based theory of grammar, prioritizing lexical elements over grammatical ones.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Humanities·JournalJournal of Neurolinguistics·DateOct 11, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Scientists discover one of the most luminous 'new stars' ever

Astronomers have discovered the most luminous nova ever seen in a nearby galaxy, using data from the Swift satellite observatory. The study provides insights into white dwarf eruptions, including the possibility of a supernova explosion in the future.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 11, 2017

Once a lesbian always a lesbian, right? Or not?

New research highlights same-sex attraction as changing over time, with some women experiencing changes in sexual orientation later in life. Experts stress the importance of open dialogue between patients and healthcare providers about lifestyle changes.

SourceThe Menopause Society·DateOct 11, 2017

New guidelines published to improve diagnosis and treatment of lupus

A new guideline has been published by the British Society of Rheumatology to improve the diagnosis and treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). The guideline aims to provide advice on how to diagnose and treat patients with mild, moderate, and severe lupus, reducing disease flares and improving survival rates.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalRheumatology·DateOct 11, 2017
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.