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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 154


Page 154 of 461

Rethinking serotonin could lead to a shift in psychiatric care

Researchers propose a revised understanding of serotonin's role in the brain, highlighting its potential to treat recalcitrant mental health conditions through psychedelic drugs. The 'two-pronged' model could enable patients to change negative behaviors and thought patterns.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateSep 4, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mayo Clinic researchers review the clinical potential of senolytic drugs on aging

Senolytic agents target senescent cells, which accumulate with age and contribute to chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Mayo Clinic researchers have identified new screening platforms to find additional senolytic drugs, potentially leading to transformative treatments for aging-related diseases.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 4, 2017

Indigenous storytelling is a new asset for biocultural conservation

Researchers tap into indigenous storytelling to revitalize biocultural heritage, fostering emotional connections with landscapes and wildlife. This approach bridges cultural revitalization and nature conservation, offering a new asset for conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalConservation Letters·DateSep 4, 2017

Improved dating of Neanderthal remains

Researchers used an improved dating technique to date Neanderthal remains from Vindija Cave in Croatia. The dates obtained were significantly older than previously reported, pushing back the timeline of Neanderthal presence in Central Europe. This challenges previous theories about the coexistence of Neanderthals and modern humans.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2017

Mobile phone use while pregnant not linked to child neurodevelopment problems

Research published in BMC Public Health found that maternal mobile phone use was associated with lower risk of language and motor skills delays at ages 3 and 5. Children born to mobile phone users had a 27% lower risk of lower sentence complexity, 14% lower risk of incomplete grammar, and 31% lower risk of moderate language delay.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateSep 4, 2017

Team gathers unprecedented data on atmosphere's organic chemistry

Researchers from MIT and global partners conducted a comprehensive survey of atmospheric chemistry in a Colorado forest, identifying previously unmeasured semi-volatile and intermediate-volatility organic compounds. The findings provide new insights into air quality, ecosystem health, and climate change.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 4, 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 devise a new way of producing hydrogen fuel

Researchers have devised a new way of producing hydrogen fuel by combining a photosensitive protein with titanium dioxide particles in nanodiscs. The process, which uses sunlight to generate energy, results in the production of hydrogen at an efficiency rate of 45% or more.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 4, 2017

Superfly flight simulator helps unravel navigation in the brain

Researchers at RIKEN Brain Science Institute identified two separate pathways in the fly brain that process landmark locations and self-motion independently. This discovery sheds light on how animals navigate their environment using cues like landmarks and memories.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateSep 4, 2017

Antarctic volcanic eruptions triggered abrupt southern hemisphere climate changes near the end of the last ice age

New findings from the University of Copenhagen reveal that massive Antarctic volcanic eruptions coincided with accelerated deglaciation about 17,700 years ago. These eruptions created a stratospheric ozone hole over Antarctica, leading to large-scale changes in atmospheric circulation and hydroclimate throughout the Southern Hemisphere.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 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.

Medical camera makes light work of seeing through the body

Scientists have developed a camera that uses advanced photon detection technology to track the location of endoscopes in real-time. This allows doctors to guide the endoscope to the correct place without using expensive methods like X-rays.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateSep 4, 2017

Cannot sleep due to stress? Here is the cure

A study found that octacosanol, a compound rich in sugarcane and other natural products, can reduce stress and restore normal sleep in mildly stressed mice. The researchers also suggest that octacosanol may be useful for treating insomnia caused by stress due to its potential to increase sleep.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 4, 2017

Diverse landscapes are more productive and adapt better to climate change

Researchers from University of Zurich investigate role of biodiversity in real-world ecosystems, finding diverse landscapes produce more biomass and adapt better to climate change. The analysis of 450 landscapes across Switzerland revealed a positive correlation between biodiversity and annual growing period length.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2017

Reindeer grazing protects tundra plant diversity in a warming climate

A recent study published in Nature Communications suggests that reindeer grazing can help protect tundra plant diversity in a warming climate. By allowing more plant species to co-exist and benefit from warmer conditions, reindeer can increase light availability and preserve small and slowly-growing plant species.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2017
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.

New fluorescent dyes could advance biological imaging

Chemists have developed a technique to create a spectrum of glowing dyes, offering scientists a way to adjust the properties of existing dyes deliberately. This expanded palette could help researchers better illuminate the inner workings of cells.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 4, 2017

Epileptic brain activity in widely used lab mice

Researchers have observed unusual neural activity in some genetically modified lab mice widely used in neuroscience research. This abnormal activity may be linked to the expression of a genetically-encoded calcium sensor during development.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateSep 4, 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.

Taking a deep breath?

Researchers measure exceptionally high oxygen absorption in the Labrador Sea during winter 2014/2015. The study suggests that while this region may absorb more oxygen than lost, the global decrease in surface water oxygen content due to climate change cannot be compensated.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 4, 2017

First detailed decoding of complex finger millet genome

Researchers have successfully decoded the complex genome of finger millet, a staple food in India and Africa, revealing over 62,300 genes. The new data holds promise for improving crop resilience to drought and enhancing nutritional content, addressing food security concerns globally.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalDNA Research·DateSep 4, 2017

Angry and disconnected people more likely to support Anonymous

Research by University of Kent psychologist Dr Giovanni Travaglino found that anger against the political system is a common factor in explaining support for Anonymous. People who feel angry and powerless are more likely to express their dissent vicariously through Anonymous rather than engaging directly in politics.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalGroup Processes & Intergroup Relations·DateSep 4, 2017

PSA screening significantly reduces the risk for death from prostate cancer

Guidelines recommending against routine PSA-based screening may be revised due to compatible evidence showing screening reduces prostate cancer mortality. The benefits of screening outweigh potential harms of overdiagnosis and overtreatment, but how to implement screening is still a question.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 4, 2017
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.

How poison-dart frogs avoid self-intoxication

A study discovered how poison-dart frogs avoid self-intoxication despite storing toxic batrachotoxin in their skin. The key finding involves a specific amino acid replacement that confers resistance, allowing adult frogs to store over 1 mg of toxin.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2017

What's your story, morning glory?

Researchers successfully altered the flower color of Japanese morning glory from violet to white using CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technology. The study highlights the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 for studying and manipulating genes in horticultural plants.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 4, 2017

Mysterious protein-folding molecule could trigger metabolic disorders

A recent study by researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina identifies CNPY2 as a key molecule triggering the unfolded protein response, which contributes to certain metabolic disorders. The study found that CNPY2 plays a crucial role in sustaining cellular stress when the UPR becomes active.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 4, 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.

DNA and protein 'liquid biopsy' for early pancreatic cancer better than either alone

Researchers developed a combined 'liquid biopsy' that detected markers from both DNA and protein products of DNA, showing twice the accuracy of detection as DNA alone. The test identified early-stage pancreatic cancer in 64% of patients, improving on the 30% detection rate achieved with DNA testing alone.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2017

Face value

A new Harvard Medical School study suggests that brain regions key to facial recognition form only through experience and are absent in primates who don't encounter faces. This finding sheds light on neuro-developmental conditions such as autism and developmental prosopagnosia, where individuals struggle with recognizing familiar faces.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateSep 4, 2017

Mobile women were key to cultural exchange in Stone Age and Bronze Age Europe

Researchers found that mobile women brought new cultural objects and ideas, which increased during the Bronze Age, promoting technological development. Genetic analysis revealed diversity of female lineages from outside the region, indicating integration into local communities.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 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.

Deadly parasite messaging tactic may help curb sleeping sickness

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh studied two species of trypanosome parasites that can co-infect animals at once. Communication between the species may aid their survival by controlling numbers and optimizing transmission, potentially leading to more severe human infections.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 4, 2017

New device for refined neural recording in mice could transform dementia research

Researchers have developed a new, ultra lightweight system for recording neural activity in mice, enabling the study of brain disorders like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. The TaiNi device offers significant animal welfare benefits and high signal bandwidth, increasing information gathered from each mouse.

SourceNational Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs)·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 4, 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.

Discovery of dynamic seasonal changes in color perception

Research on Medaka fish reveals dynamic seasonal changes in color perception, with variations in behavior, light response, and gene expression. This phenomenon may not be limited to Medaka and could be widely observed in various animals, including humans.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2017

Call for arts to keep up with Asia

The Australian arts sector faces significant challenges, including a lack of national cultural policy and disruption from changing governments. Experts suggest talent development, audience engagement, innovation, and new income streams are key to reinvigorating the sector.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalInternational Journal of Cultural Policy·DateSep 3, 2017

ICON8 trial reaffirms standard dosing in ovarian cancer chemo

The ICON8 trial confirms standard dosing of paclitaxel is safe and effective for European patients with ovarian cancer. The study found no benefit to dose-dense regimens in terms of progression-free survival, but noted a slight increase in grade 3-4 toxicity.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateSep 3, 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.

Algorithm unlocks smartwatches that learn your every move

Scientists at the University of Sussex have developed a new algorithm that enables smartwatches to detect and record daily human activities in real-time. The algorithm outperforms existing approaches by tracking ongoing activity and paying attention to transitions, providing a more accurate picture of daily life.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·DateSep 3, 2017

World Sexual Health Day: Study raises concerns about drug-resistant STI

A recent study published in the BMJ Journal of Sexually Transmitted Infections warns of the rapid increase in drug resistance of Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), a common sexually transmitted infection. The study suggests that reducing azithromycin use, currently used to treat MG, is necessary to mitigate this issue.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateSep 3, 2017

Heavy alcohol use alters brain functioning differently in young men and women

Research found that long-term heavy alcohol use affects male and female brains differently, with males showing more pronounced changes in electrical activity. The study suggests a possible mechanism for gender differences in alcohol response, highlighting the need for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 3, 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.

Antivenoms ineffective for common fatal snakebite

Researchers found that antivenoms produced using snakes from one region may perform poorly or fail completely against the same species of snakes from other regions. The study highlights a significant public health concern, with snakebites affecting millions globally and accounting for thousands of deaths annually.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalToxicology Letters·DateSep 3, 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.

Is ADHD really a sleep problem?

Research proposes that ADHD may be associated with disruptions in the body's natural circadian rhythm, leading to symptoms like delayed sleep phase and increased alertness in the evening. This finding raises the possibility of treating ADHD through non-pharmacological methods such as light therapy and sleep pattern changes.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 2, 2017

Study shows potential unintended effects of charter school movement

A University of Kansas researcher finds that charter school enrollment in Pennsylvania led to a 9.5% decrease in property tax revenue for public schools between 2005 and 2012. The study suggests that policymakers may not fully understand the financial impact of charter schools on traditional public education.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateSep 2, 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.

Scientists identify climatic risks for dengue disease outbreaks

Researchers found a strong correlation between rainfall and dengue disease burden in most states except Gujarat. Climatic conditions play a crucial role in the extrinsic incubation period (EIP) of the virus, with lower temperatures resulting in longer EIPs.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalEmerging Microbes & Infections·DateSep 1, 2017

Palliative care makes only limited gains in Africa

A scoping review of palliative care development in Africa found that only a small subset of countries have made progress, with the majority concentrated in East Africa. The review highlights the need for increased access to opioids and postgraduate educational opportunities to address structural inequities in care delivery.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateSep 1, 2017

NASA gets a night-time and under-the-hood look at Hurricane Irma

The Suomi NPP Satellite provided a night-time image of Hurricane Irma, revealing powerful thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures as cold as 190 kelvin. The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission confirmed heavy rainfall within the hurricane, with a convective storm dropping rain at a rate of almost 6.3 inches per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 1, 2017

Study: Drug may curb female infertility from cancer treatments

Researchers at Cornell University have identified a potential solution to protect premenopausal women from life-altering infertility after cancer treatment. By inhibiting the checkpoint pathway, the study found that oocytes survived radiation and remained fertile, enabling birth of healthy pups.

SourceCornell University·JournalGenetics·DateSep 1, 2017

Melatonin may help treat blood cancers

Researchers found melatonin boosts immune response against cancer cells, inhibits growth and protects healthy cells from chemotherapy effects. Timing of melatonin treatments is crucial for their anticancer effects due to its role in regulating circadian rhythms.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateSep 1, 2017
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.

Bacteria act as aphrodisiac for the closest relatives of animals

Scientists have discovered that bacteria can act as an aphrodisiac for choanoflagellates, one-celled marine organisms notable for being the closest living relative of all animals. The discovery reveals how these eukaryotes regulate their life history in response to bacterial cues.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCell·DateSep 1, 2017