Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2017 - Page 109


Page 109 of 461

Pushy or laid back? Economic factors influence parenting style

A new study by Yale economists Fabrizio Zilibotti and Matthias Doepke finds that economic conditions, especially inequality and return to education, shape parenting styles. Parents are driven by a combination of altruism and paternalism, influencing their children's choices through permissive, authoritative, or authoritarian approaches.

SourceYale University·JournalEconometrica·DateOct 5, 2017

Brain wiring affects how people perform specific tasks

High-modularity brains excel at simple tasks, while low-modularity brains outperform on complex tasks. The study's findings suggest that brain modularity impacts cognitive function and has implications for understanding the brain as a network.

SourceRice University·JournalCognitive Neuroscience·DateOct 5, 2017

New tool for oil and gas exploration beats all competition

The MIPT Center for Molecular Electronics developed a seismic station that can reveal underground reservoir structures at great depths. The device has a wider bandwidth than existing seismic stations, allowing it to pick up low-frequency waves and detect potential hydrocarbon reserves more effectively.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalJournal of Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

The high price of the nocebo effect

Scientists used fMRI to study the neurological causes of the nocebo effect, finding that brain regions can influence primal pain sensing. People who believed they were receiving an expensive cream reported greater sensitivity on a heat-tolerance test and experienced more pronounced nocebo effects over time.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017

Climate solution in soil?

Stanford researchers found that managed soil can trap more carbon dioxide than previously estimated, potentially offsetting future emissions. Improving land management practices like reduced tillage and perennial crops could increase soil's carbon storage.

SourceStanford University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 5, 2017

Stealing from the body: How cancer recharges its batteries

Researchers found that cancer cells 'recharge' by transferring power-generating mitochondria from healthy bone marrow cells, supporting leukaemia growth. Inhibiting a specific enzyme reduced mitochondrial transfer and slowed cancer growth.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBlood·DateOct 5, 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.

Old Faithful's geological heart revealed

Researchers used dense seismograph network to map near-surface geology around Old Faithful, discovering a reservoir of heated water that fuels the geyser. The study also reveals how ground shaking behaves between eruptions and finds an underground feature affecting seismic waves in a specific area.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 5, 2017

JILA's 3-D quantum gas atomic clock offers new dimensions in measurement

JILA physicists have created an entirely new design for an atomic clock, packing strontium atoms into a tiny 3-D cube at 1,000 times the density of previous clocks. This approach enables a globally interacting collection of atoms to constrain collisions and improve measurements, leading to higher precision.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017

Violent helium reaction on white dwarf surface triggers supernova explosion

A team of researchers found evidence that a Type Ia supernova explosion was triggered by a violent helium detonation on the surface of a white dwarf star. The study used the Hyper Suprime-Cam camera on the Subaru Telescope to discover and analyze a recent supernova, providing the first solid evidence supporting this theory.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MTRAC awards spark biomedical innovation at Wayne State University

Three WSU research teams received $1.1 million in funding to develop innovative biomedical technologies, including a smart artificial urinary sphincter and zwitterionic hydrogel-based islet encapsulation technology. The award complements Wayne State's Technology Commercialization Office and MTRAC Program.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateOct 5, 2017

New Neandertal and archaic human genomes advance our understanding of human evolution

Two new studies on ancient genomes provide valuable insights into the lives of our ancestors and their cousins, the Neandertals. The new genome of a female Neandertal reveals new genetic contributions to modern-day humans, including variants related to plasma levels of LDL cholesterol and vitamin D. Additionally, early modern human gen...

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 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.

More traits associated with your Neandertal DNA

Neandertal DNA has been linked to various human characteristics, including skin tone, hair color, and sleep patterns. The study suggests that sun exposure plays a crucial role in shaping these traits, with Neandertal genes contributing to lighter or darker skin tones.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateOct 5, 2017

Smart bandage could promote better, faster healing

Researchers have designed a smart bandage that can deliver customized medication to promote better, faster healing of chronic wounds. The bandage uses electrically conductive fibers coated in a gel to release medications tailored to specific types of wounds.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 5, 2017

Did Teddy Evans fatally undermine Scott of the Antarctic?

A University of New South Wales researcher has uncovered documents that suggest Teddy Evans, Scott's second-in-command, may have been responsible for his leader's death and that of four others. Evans' actions, including stealing rations and failing to pass on orders, are believed to have contributed to the tragedy.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPolar Record·DateOct 5, 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.

Identifying ways to minimize the harm of energy drinks

Researchers found that young people's confusion about energy drinks suggests the need for educational campaigns. Participants suggested strategies to reduce consumption, including restrictions on sale, changing packaging, and increasing prices.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateOct 5, 2017

Paper-based supercapacitor uses metal nanoparticles to boost energy density

Researchers have developed a paper-based flexible supercapacitor using metallic nanoparticles to increase energy density. The device shows high power and energy densities, and can be folded without affecting conductivity, making it suitable for wearable devices and other applications.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2017

Columbia researchers observe exotic quantum particle in bilayer graphene

Researchers at Columbia University have observed the even-denominator fractional quantum Hall state in bilayer graphene, surviving to much higher temperatures than previously thought. This discovery opens the door to new experimental tools and may finally solve the mystery of this phenomenon.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017

Good-guy bacteria may help cancer immunotherapies do their job

Researchers found a strong association between certain beneficial gut bacteria and improved response to immunotherapies in patients with metastatic melanoma. The beneficial bacteria, including three specific species, were found to prime the immune system to attack cancer cells more effectively.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNeoplasia·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

Delivering bad news? Don't beat around the bush

A study by BYU linguistics professor Alan Manning and the University of South Alabama's Nicole Amare found that most people value clarity and directness over extended buffers when delivering bad news. Participants ranked directness as a top characteristic they valued most in receiving bad news.

SourceBrigham Young University·DateOct 5, 2017

Fight against top killer atherosclerosis garners acclaimed NIH award

A team of researchers, led by Tony Kim, has developed an innovative lab chip called the human-coronary-artery-on-a-chip to explore new treatments for atherosclerosis. The study aims to improve understanding of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) interactions with proinflammatory proteins and vascular tissues.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

UQ study shines a light to understand the body's balance system

A University of Queensland team has made a breakthrough in understanding the vestibular system, which controls balance and movement. Using optical tweezers, they were able to activate the vestibular system without the animal moving, allowing for the study of neural circuits in the brain that mediate vestibular perception.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2017

Completing the drug design jigsaw

Researchers developed a new approach to analyze drug-protein interactions, revealing the specific amino acids involved in binding. This allows for more precise chemical requirements and stronger, selective drug candidates.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 5, 2017

Caution ahead: The growing challenge for drivers' attention

A new study by University of Utah researchers found that drivers using infotainment systems are taking their hands, eyes, and mind off the road for over 24 seconds to complete tasks. The study, led by Professor David L. Strayer, identified programming navigation as the most distracting task.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateOct 5, 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.

Women who get frequent UTIs may reduce risk by drinking plenty of water

A study published at IDWeek 2017 suggests that women with frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) can reduce their risk by increasing their daily water intake. The research found that those who drank an additional three pints of water a day were nearly half as likely to get UTIs compared to those who didn't.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·DateOct 5, 2017

Segregation-induced ordered superstructures at general grain boundaries in a Ni-Bi alloy

At randomly selected high-angle general grain boundaries in a nickel-bismuth polycrystalline alloy, researchers found that interfacial reconstruction can form ordered superstructures. These segregation-induced superstructures enrich theories and fundamental understandings of grain boundary segregation and liquid metal embrittlement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017

Appetizing imagery puts visual perception on fast forward

Participants rated positive images as smoother and less choppy than neutral and negative images, even when fading at the same rate. The emotional content of the images affected how people experienced time, with higher approach motivation leading to smoother perceptions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 5, 2017

Prehistoric humans are likely to have formed mating networks to avoid inbreeding

Research suggests that prehistoric humans recognized the dangers of inbreeding at least 34,000 years ago and developed sophisticated social networks to avoid it. The study analyzed genetic information from remains of anatomically modern humans and found evidence of deliberate mate selection beyond immediate family members.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

Global burden of disease study focuses on liver cancer

A new study estimates that there were 854,000 new cases of liver cancer and 810,000 deaths worldwide in 2015. The majority of these cases were attributed to hepatitis B virus and alcohol consumption, highlighting the need for prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 5, 2017

How much can watching hockey stress your heart?

A new study found that watching hockey games live or on TV can cause a substantial effect on the cardiovascular system, with average heart rate increases of 75% and 110%, respectively. The emotional stress response triggered by high-stakes moments in the game can trigger adverse cardiovascular events.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateOct 5, 2017

Monoclonal antibodies against zika show promise in monkey study

Scientists develop an antibody-based Zika virus therapeutic that protects monkeys from infection and neutralizes the virus. The treatment has been shown to be effective in preventing Zika virus replication in rhesus macaques.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

Bariatric surgery lowers cancer risk for severely obese patients

A recent study published in Annals of Surgery found that bariatric surgery lowers the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including postmenopausal breast cancer and endometrial cancer, by up to 50% among severely obese patients. The study also showed a significant reduction in risk for colon cancer and pancreatic cancer.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateOct 5, 2017

New technology uses mouth gestures to interact in virtual reality

Researchers at Binghamton University developed a new framework that interprets mouth gestures as a medium for interaction within virtual reality in real-time. The system achieved high correct recognition rates and was tested on a group of graduate students using a head-mounted display.

SourceBinghamton University·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

IUPUI microbiologists uncover clues to clustering of lethal bacteria in CF patients' lungs

Researchers have identified a key protein, MgtE, that plays a crucial role in signaling bacteria to form clusters, or biofilms, in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients. The study reveals how fluctuations in magnesium levels influence MgtE activity, providing new insights into the development of chronic pneumonia.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateOct 5, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, October 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a method to detect network intrusions in connected and autonomous vehicles, with near-perfect detection rates in initial testing. Additionally, scientists have created a technique for making ultrafast measurements using atomic force microscopy, allowing for high-resolution ima...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 5, 2017

Research identifies potential targets for treatment of leishmaniasis

Researchers have identified two microRNAs, miR-294 and miR-721, that are upregulated in macrophages infected with Leishmania parasites, potentially inhibiting the immune system's response. By analyzing the expression of these microRNAs, scientists hope to identify molecular targets for developing new treatments against leishmaniasis.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateOct 5, 2017

Sensory loss can be a warning sign of poor health outcomes, including death

A long-term study found that global sensory impairment can predict poor health outcomes, including greater risk of death, in older US adults. Adults with worse sensory impairment had slower physical and cognitive abilities, and a higher risk of dying over five years.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 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.

A new CRISPR-engineered cancer model to test therapeutics

Researchers developed a customizable mouse model of leukemia using multiplex CRISPR-Cas9 editing and human hematopoietic stem cells. The models accurately reflect human responses to therapeutic agents commonly used to treat blood cancers. This breakthrough may aid drug discovery and clinical trials.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 5, 2017

Improvement of the genetic decoding of neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers developed higher resolution genetic diagnostic tools to identify genetic anomalies in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The study linked novel DLG2 promoters and coding exons to developmental delay and intellectual disability, providing a potential pathogenic role in these conditions.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalGenome Medicine·DateOct 5, 2017
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.

Soil microbes' contribution to the carbon cycle in a warming world

Researchers discovered a four-phase pattern in soil organic matter decay and carbon dioxide flows to the atmosphere due to soil warming. This pattern has significant implications for global warming, as it suggests that microbial communities are adapting to changing conditions by evolving new enzymes to process reduced carbon.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017