How cicadas manage to 'wing it'
Researchers found distinct protein structures and varying chitin ratios in cicada wings compared to locust wings. This difference may contribute to cicadas' relatively heavy wings, limiting their flight distances.
Science News Archive 2017 - Page 185
Browse by Month - 2017
Page 185 of 461
The effects of increased inflammatory markers during pregnancy
Researchers found that maternal inflammation can lead to changes in the fetal brain, particularly in the amygdala, which plays a crucial role in emotional processing. This association has been linked to impaired impulse control and an increased risk of psychiatric disorders.
Researchers receive $1.5 million each to study extracellular matrix for cardiovascular research
Two researchers, Suneel Apte and Jeffrey Holmes, have been awarded grants to study the extracellular matrix, a key component in heart health and disease. Their research aims to uncover novel disease markers and targets for developing drugs to treat cardiovascular disease.
Bipartisan collaboration opens door to strengthen nation's healthcare system, AGS
The American Geriatrics Society calls for bipartisan collaboration to improve the nation's healthcare system, focusing on expanded in-home care options and adequate resources for caregivers. Experts also emphasize the need for geriatricians' training and research on healthy aging and age-related health problems.
Extinction mystery solved? Evidence suggests humans played a role in monkey's demise in Jamaica
A new study suggests that human settlement of Jamaica may have led to the extinction of the Xenothrix mcgregori monkey species. The research uses radiocarbon dating to estimate that the monkey died between 505 and 573 A.D., overlapping with non-European human arrival on the island.
Moon's magnetic field lasted far longer than once believed
Researchers found that the moon's magnetic field declined by about 90 percent over 3.56 billion years ago, with a 1-2.5 billion year time frame for its existence. This discovery has implications for habitability on other moons and planets, as well as the potential for life to respond to unstable environments.
Smart windows that go from clear to dark in under a minute
The researchers created prototypes of conductive glass with metal ions that spread out over the surface, blocking light in response to electrical current. This technology has the potential to transform homes, businesses, cars, and more by reducing energy consumption and costs.
Apathy is common and may decrease life expectancy in nursing home patients
A study found that apathy is present in half of nursing home patients and linked with an increased risk of dying over a 4-month period. Screening and treatment strategies for apathy are necessary to improve quality of life and advanced care planning.
Successful filming of fastest aurora flickering
Researchers at Poker Flat Research Range in Alaska used high-speed cameras to capture the rare phenomenon of an aurora flickering. The team discovered that faster flickerings occur at speeds of 1/60-1/50 and 1/80 seconds, revealing a complex exchange of energy between plasma waves and particles.
SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 9, 2017
C-section delivery associated with increased risk of complications from hysterectomy
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that women with a history of C-section delivery had a higher risk of reoperation and surgical complications after undergoing a hysterectomy. Women with two or more C-section deliveries were also more likely to receive blood transfusions.
Weight loss surgery's effects on bone marrow fat and bone mass
Increases in bone marrow fat are associated with a decline in bone density after gastric bypass surgery, while improvements in blood sugar control are linked to reduced marrow fat levels. The study suggests that weight loss and blood sugar metabolism may influence bone health through changes in bone marrow fat.
Intraindividual reaction time variability independently predicts mortality
Greater intraindividual reaction time variability was found to predict shorter survival times in older adults, independent of cognitive decline. The study used computerized reaction time tests to measure participants' responses and found that increased variability was associated with a higher risk of mortality.
Classmates could spur 'contagious' interest in STEM
A new study found that motivating high school classroom environments can positively influence students' STEM interests, with 65% of students showing STEM career intentions in classrooms with perceived high levels of peer interest. Peer interest was also linked to improved or maintained grades in science and math courses.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 9, 2017
UF scientists discover cause of Atlantic coastline's sea level rise hot spots
Researchers found that naturally occurring climate variations, specifically El Niño and the North Atlantic Oscillation, drive sea level rise hot spots along the U.S. East Coast. These hot spots can amplify coastal flooding severity and are difficult to predict.
Rain increases joint pain? Google suggests otherwise
New research finds that temperature rises and increasing physical activity levels, not weather conditions, drive online searches for knee and hip pain. Temperatures peaked at 73 and 83 degrees Fahrenheit respectively.
Research opens possibility of reducing risk of gut bacterial infections with next-generation probiotic
A study found that a next-generation probiotic, Lactobacillus reuteri, produces an antibacterial compound that selectively kills C. difficile. This could lead to a preventative strategy for reducing the risk of C. difficile infections in patients taking antibiotics.
Chaotic magnetic field lines may answer the coronal heating problem
Researchers in India used numerical computations to investigate the role of chaotic magnetic field lines in generating intense electric current sheets, which are potential sites for extreme heating of the sun's corona. The simulations found a direct proportionality between the intensity of the current sheet and chaoticity.
Immunotherapy shown to be safe for diabetes
A recent study demonstrates the safety of immunotherapy in treating type 1 diabetes. The treatment showed metabolic effects without accelerating β-cell destruction, suggesting a viable option for patients.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 9, 2017
Artificial intelligence uses internet searches to help create mind association magic trick
Scientists from Queen Mary University of London created an AI that uses internet searches to source and process associated words and images for a novel mind reading card trick. The computer assists in designing the trick by uncovering suggestions and acting as an aid to prompt further creativity.
Ancient pottery reveals insights on Iroquoian population's power in 16th century
Researchers use ancient pottery to study Iroquoian social networks and find that the Jefferson County Iroquoians played a key role as brokers between Haudenosaunee and Wendat groups. This discovery sheds new light on the importance of this lesser-known population in upstate New York.
Too near, or too far? What fruit flies teach us about personal space
Researchers studying fruit flies have found that a neurotransmitter called dopamine regulates social space, with too little or too much release causing male and female fruit flies to adjust their distance. The discovery may lead to new insights into disorders where personal space is an issue.
Scientists develop improved, potentially safer Zika vaccine
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a plant-based Zika vaccine that is more potent, safer and cheaper to produce than existing alternatives. The vaccine targets the DIII domain of the Zika virus and has been shown to induce 100% protection against multiple Zika virus strains in mice.
Analysis highlights failings in US's advanced nuclear program
A new study reveals the US Office of Nuclear Energy's budget history, showing a lack of effective allocation of resources and failure to support innovative research. The researchers recommend a new approach with stricter programmatic discipline and transparent evaluation processes to identify promising reactor concepts.
Portland State laser mapping project shows global warming effects in Antarctica
Researchers create high-resolution maps of the McMurdo Dry Valleys, showing rapid erosion and glacier thinning due to climate change. The study provides insights into the region's vulnerability to future warming and its potential impact on global sea levels.
Incomplete drought recovery may be the new normal
A new study suggests that drought recovery times will increase due to climate change, potentially leading to widespread tree deaths and ecosystem disruption. The factors contributing to this increase include temperature extremes, precipitation, and carbon dioxide concentrations.
Ants dominate waste management in tropical rainforests
A University of Liverpool study found that ants are responsible for moving more than half of food resources from the rainforest floor. This role is crucial for nutrient redistribution and decomposition, maintaining a diverse and healthy soil environment.
Personalized melanoma genomic risk triggers family conversations
A new study found that sharing personalized melanoma genomic risk information with relatives and friends can lead to increased discussions about skin cancer prevention. The study suggests that this process could encourage healthy behavior change within families.
NASA's Webb Telescope summertime deep-freeze continues
The telescope is cooled to minus 387 Fahrenheit as scientists and engineers monitor its performance with temperature sensors and cameras. Once complete, the telescope will be integrated with the spacecraft and sunshield at Northrop Grumman, California, before undergoing final tests called 'observatory-level testing,'
Supporting women's autonomy in prenatal testing
The Hastings Center recommends adopting reimbursement policies and guidelines to support clinicians in providing informed consent for prenatal genetic testing. The authors also suggest funding education and counseling approaches to help patients make decisions about testing.
Fruit fly mutation foretells 40 million years of evolution
A new study by Florida State University researcher David Houle found that small mutations in fruit flies can predict up to 40 million years of evolution for this common household pest. The research suggests a tight relationship between mutation effects and evolutionary changes.
Defining standards for genomes from uncultivated microorganisms
Scientists have established minimum metadata requirements for single-cell genomics and metagenome-assembled genomes, enabling researchers to compare analyses and assess genome quality. The proposed categories include Low-Quality Drafts, Medium-Quality Drafts, High-Quality Drafts, and Finished Quality.
Managers can help prevent employees from working while sick
A new study reveals that managerial support can help workaholics avoid attending work when sick and address work-family conflict. By recognizing the harm of presenteeism, managers can train themselves to develop protective factors against this phenomenon.
Arrival of modern humans in Southeast Asia questioned
Researchers have discovered evidence of modern human presence in West Sumatra, dating back to 73,000 years ago, suggesting a possible early migration to Australia. The findings, published in Nature, shed new light on the origins of humans in Southeast Asia and challenge the current timeline.
Study in mice may reveal insights into causes of miscarriages for some women
A study in mice reveals how natural killer cells can cause a fetus to fail to grow or lead to miscarriages. Researchers identified potential treatments, including IVIG and targeted therapies, to prevent FNAIT-related miscarriages.
Salamanders that breed in the fall are less likely to disperse
A study from the University of Missouri found that salamanders breeding in the fall move to new ponds less often than those breeding in spring. This discovery could lead to better forest management and conservation strategies by taking into account a species' breeding season when managing populations.
Study finds patients needed fewer opioid tablets than prescribed after hernia surgery
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that patients used significantly fewer opioid tablets than prescribed after inguinal hernia surgery, with 60% relying on nonopioid medications. The results suggest a need to reassess prescribing practices and consider patient experiences to determine optimal medication amounts.
Newly discovered pathway for pain processing could lead to new treatments
Scientists at McGill University have discovered a new biological pathway involved in pain processing, which could lead to the use of existing cancer drugs as alternatives to opioids. The researchers found that EGFR blockers were as potent analgesics as morphine in mouse models of inflammatory and chronic pain.
Are learning and unlearning bedfellows?
Studies show that humans can learn new sounds while asleep, particularly during REM and N2 sleep phases. However, learned sounds are forgotten in deep sleep (N3) stage, suggesting a mechanism for unloading unnecessary memories. These findings reconcile two theories on sleep's role in memory consolidation.
Annual wind report confirms tech advancements, improved performance, low wind prices
The US Department of Energy's Wind Technologies Market Report reveals that wind power additions reached a record high in 2016, with 8,203 MW of new capacity. Bigger turbines are enhancing project performance, while low turbine pricing continues to push down installed project costs.
UCI celestial census indicates that black holes pervade the universe
Researchers from University of California, Irvine estimate tens of millions of stellar-remnant black holes exist in the Milky Way galaxy. The number of black holes is expected to depend on the size of the galaxy.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 8, 2017
Scientists prevent neurodegeneration-associated protein clumping in lab study
Researchers stopped FUS protein clumping using phosphorylation, a natural cellular process that increases protein charge and repels aggregation. The findings could have positive implications for treating ALS and dementia.
NASA sees Tropical Depression Noru fading over Japan
Tropical Depression Noru is weakening over Japan due to warming cloud top temperatures. The storm's strongest sides are being identified using infrared light from the AIRS instrument on NASA's Aqua satellite.
Extreme melt season leads to decade-long ecosystem changes in Antarctica's Dry Valleys
A decade-long study in Antarctica's Dry Valleys reveals that an extreme melt season triggered changes in physical and biological characteristics, including increased soil species and population increases. The findings suggest that abrupt climate events can cause long-term alterations in polar ecosystems.
Violent news videos can be a moral motivator, says UB researcher
Research suggests including graphic content in serious stories can increase moral sensitivity and desire for intervention, contradicting prevailing wisdom on sensationalism. Editors should consider showing graphic video if the story is important and accurate representation of severe events is necessary.
Research-focused UH biotech program to expand nationally
The UH biotech program will expand to five colleges and universities nationwide, implementing its innovative approach to integrating classroom instruction and research. The program aims to demonstrate its effectiveness across various higher education institutions and has the potential to address real-world issues such as environmental ...
Development of molecular container with caps that can regulate uptake/release of objects
Researchers developed a novel macrocyclic host molecule with exchangeable caps, enabling control of ion uptake/release on an everyday time scale. The discovery enables practical applications like storage and transport of molecules or uptake/release of target molecules at will.
Researchers discover potentially harmful nanoparticles produced through burning coal
Environmental scientists at Virginia Tech have discovered that burning coal produces tiny titanium oxide nanoparticles, which can be toxic to humans. These nanoparticles were found in coal ash, city streets, and even wastewater treatment plants worldwide.
Can AI prevent the spread of HIV in homeless youth?
Researchers developed algorithms that pinpoint individuals most likely to influence peers to get tested for HIV status, resulting in a 70% reach compared to current methods. The AI-powered approach encouraged testing, with 37% of peers getting tested when selected by HEALER and 25% by DOSIM.
Distributed wind power keeps spinning, growing
Distributed wind power has grown significantly in the US, with the nation's cumulative capacity reaching 1% of total wind power capacity. The 2016 report highlights the success of third-party financing and leasing options, which have made it more accessible for companies and individuals to install wind turbines on their properties.
NASA program gives students access to astronauts
Children worldwide can connect with astronauts aboard the space station via ARISS, inspiring youth to pursue STEM interests. The program has sparked powerful memories and lifelong passions among participants.
No longer water under the bridge, statistics yields new data on sea levels
Researchers developed a new statistical method to calculate sea level rise, showing it's not only increasing but also accelerating. The study found the rate of sea level change on the East Coast is the highest in 2,000 years, with areas like New York City facing rapid increases.
Fitness technology increases satisfaction, lowers perceived exertion in new exercisers
A study found that immersive cycling workouts increase satisfaction and lower perceived exertion in novice exercisers. The immersive class created a high-intensity workout without feeling intense, resulting in higher heart rate zones without discomfort.
MPFI researchers make significant advance in understanding calcium channel function
Researchers at MPFI uncovered the role of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in determining neurotransmitter release and brain function. The team developed new methods to directly monitor channel impact, revealing a previously unknown region of the alpha subunit controlling channel positioning.
NSF funds new multidisciplinary approaches to study the brain
The NSF has awarded 19 projects to study neural and cognitive systems, advancing frontiers in cognitive science and neuroscience. The research focuses on four themes: education, engineering, computer science, and the impact of neural systems on these fields.
JCU scientist finds alcohol-free solution works
A James Cook University scientist has discovered an alcohol-free antiseptic solution that is safe and effective for minor surgical procedures. The study found a slightly lower infection rate with the new solution compared to traditional water-based antiseptics.
Assembling nanomachines in bacteria
A new study reveals the dynamic assembly of the export gate complex in bacterial flagellum and injectisome. The research identifies FliO as a scaffold protein essential for assembly, providing candidate targets for experimental drugs.
One fall too many
A study found that older adults who visit emergency departments for falls are less likely to participate in fall prevention programs. Despite this, patients reported discussing their falls with healthcare providers and family members, suggesting room for improvement in the healthcare response.
New scanning process allows unprecedented look inside live insects
An interdisciplinary team developed a novel method to scan the internal development of live insects using carbon dioxide-induced suspended animation. The technique allows for detailed, three-dimensional views of insect innards without harming them.
State crime researchers uncover role of Western companies in Uzbek corruption scandal
State crime researchers reveal Uzbek government helped solicit bribes from telecommunications firms owned by Western interests, with assets totaling over $850 million currently under US forfeiture proceedings. The report details how foreign corporations and banks were implicated in a racketeering scheme led by political heiress Gulnara...
Drug hope for acute myeloid leukemia
Researchers at the University of Bradford have discovered a new drug candidate, HXR9, that targets HOX genes to prevent cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis. Combining HXR9 with another drug shows enhanced results in reducing cancer growth.