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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 218


Page 218 of 461

Satellite sees Tropical Storm Fernanda heading west

Tropical Storm Fernanda is strengthening as it moves west through the Eastern Pacific Ocean, nearing hurricane strength. The National Hurricane Center predicts significant strengthening over the next 48 hours, with Fernanda expected to become a hurricane later today.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 13, 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.

Machine learning technique offers insight into plasma behavior

A new machine learning technique can help identify plasma behavior that precedes disruptions in tokamaks, allowing scientists to steer the plasma towards stability. By analyzing past experiments and predicting disruption precursors, researchers can implement a system to monitor the plasma for signs of instability.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPlasma Physics and Controlled Fusion·DateJul 13, 2017

Researchers overcome suppression of immune response against bacterial pathogens

Researchers developed a human lung tissue model to study pneumonia and found that viral pathogens inhibit the immune system's ability to fight bacterial infections. A new drug-based treatment was tested, which inhibits tyrosine kinase-2, restoring the immune system's ability to combat bacterial pathogens.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateJul 13, 2017

Mountain gorillas have herpes virus similar to that found in humans

A study by UC Davis researchers found that mountain gorillas harbor a strain of lymphocryptovirus 1, similar to the Epstein-Barr virus in humans. The virus is widespread among infant gorillas, infecting 52% of those studied, with no symptoms reported in live gorillas.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 13, 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.

Laser-cooled ions contribute to better understanding of friction

Scientists from PTB create a model system using laser-cooled ytterbium ions to study friction phenomena at the atomic scale. They observe transitions between phases caused by structural defects, revealing dynamics comparable to DNA molecule chains.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 13, 2017

Ancient plankton-like microfossils span 2 continents

Researchers discovered ancient plankton-like microfossils in South African and Australian rocks, dating back 3.4 billion years. The fossils' unique morphology and carbon isotope values suggest they had planktonic stages in their life cycles.

SourcePenn State·JournalPrecambrian Research·DateJul 13, 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.

Nickel is crucial for the Earth's magnetic field

Researchers found that nickel is essential for creating the geodynamo effect that generates the Earth's magnetic field. Without nickel, convection currents cannot form, leading to a magnetic field. The study used advanced computer simulations to analyze the behavior of metals in the Earth's core.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 13, 2017

Study suggests route to improving rechargeable lithium batteries

Scientists discovered that smooth surfaces are key to preventing dendrites from forming in solid electrolyte lithium batteries, a breakthrough that could enable safer and more efficient battery technology. By eliminating the need for liquid electrolytes, researchers aim to double a battery's energy capacity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJul 13, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Largest study of malaria gene function reveals many potential drug targets

A recent study analyzing over half of the malaria parasite's genes found that two thirds are essential for survival, opening up new avenues for antimalarial drug development. The researchers developed a method to decipher gene function by switching off and counting the growth of genetically modified parasites.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·DateJul 13, 2017

Time to rise and shine

The copepod Calanus finmarchicus uses a genetic clock to regulate its daily vertical migration, which is likely the largest daily movement of biomass worldwide. This internal rhythm influences the entire food web in the North Atlantic and has significant implications for marine ecosystems.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 13, 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.

Tiny cellular antennae key to fat formation in muscle

Scientists at UCSF discover primary cilia, found on fat-forming cells in muscle, regulate fat formation and tissue renewal. The study provides new insights into muscle aging and disease, potentially leading to improved muscle regeneration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateJul 13, 2017

Low doses of radiation could harm cardiovascular health, study suggests

A recent study published in the International Journal of Radiation Biology found that low doses of radiation can cause permanent alterations in coronary artery endothelial cells, leading to reduced nitric oxide production and increased oxidative stress. This damage can result in long-term premature dysfunction and an increased risk of ...

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInternational Journal of Radiation Biology·DateJul 13, 2017

Early adopters prefer earliest access

When natural early adopters (NEAs) are prevented from accessing a new technology, it can lead to a cascading negative effect on adoption across the population. The experiment found that among self-proclaimed NEAs, cash-out rates increased significantly when access was delayed, indicating they were more likely to abandon the technology.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 13, 2017

Elderly yoginis have greater cortical thickness

Scientists found greater cortical thickness in elderly female yoga practitioners' brains, associated with improved cognitive functions like attention and memory. Long-term yoga practice appears to shape the brain structure and could offset age-related cognitive decline.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateJul 13, 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.

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.

Testing a soft artificial heart

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a soft artificial heart made from silicone that mimics the human heart's form and function. The device lasts only 3,000 beats but paves the way for future improvements in artificial hearts.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalArtificial Organs·DateJul 13, 2017

Surging heat may limit aircraft takeoffs globally

A new study finds that rising temperatures will make it harder for many aircraft to take off, with some planes needing to dump weight or wait for cooler hours. The study projects widespread effects on aviation, particularly in hotter parts of the world.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalClimatic Change·DateJul 13, 2017

The earliest stages of life might be simpler than we thought

Researchers have discovered that mammalian cells can build an embryo by making four simple decisions, including counting their neighboring cells. This simplified understanding of embryonic development challenges traditional theories and offers new insights into evolution.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 13, 2017

ASHG honors John Mulvihill with Mentorship Award

John J. Mulvihill, MD, receives the ASHG Mentorship Award for his sustained pattern of exemplary mentorship at various academic ranks. He has founded successful genetics training programs and mentored trainees across fields and career stages.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 13, 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.

A hit love song for toads

Researchers at James Cook University found that a specific sound frequency and pulse rate attract more reproductive female cane toads, making it easier to control the population. This technique may be used for large-scale eradication of island populations but not mainland Australia.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalPest Management Science·DateJul 13, 2017

Why Japan's coastal zones might be disappearing due to climate change

Climate change projections indicate that Japan's coastal zones will experience significant beach erosion due to rising sea levels and increased wave heights. The study suggests that beach-loss rates may reach as high as 83% by 2100, posing a significant threat to coastal management.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalCoastal Engineering Journal·DateJul 13, 2017

Could calcium hold the key to fighting a dangerous hospital infection?

Excess gut calcium plays a crucial role in triggering the germination of Clostridium difficile (C. diff) spores, according to new research published in PLoS Pathogens. This discovery may lead to better treatment for vulnerable patients and help slow or stop the transmission cycle of C. diff infections.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 13, 2017

Newly discovered elovanoids called a 'transformative new concept of biology'

Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have discovered a new class of biochemical triggers called elovanoids, which are derived from omega-3 fatty acids. These molecules play a significant role in protecting retinal pigment epithelial and photoreceptor cells from damage.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 13, 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.

Scientists develop imaging method for measuring glutathione in real time

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed a fluorescent probe, RealThiol, to measure real-time changes of glutathione concentration in living cells. The new tool offers insights into the roles of glutathione in aging, health and diseases such as cancer and Parkinson's.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 13, 2017

A big step? Trial will test improvisational dance as dementia therapy

A new clinical trial will assess the effectiveness of improvisational dance in improving gait and balance problems associated with cognitive impairment and memory loss, as well as reducing apathy and depression. The 12-week program will be divided into four groups, including dance with social engagement and dance only.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateJul 13, 2017

NASA infrared image shows Eugene now a remnant

Former Hurricane Eugene has diminished to a small area of convection in the northeastern quadrant. The storm's remnant circulation is expected to continue moving northwest and dissipate over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 13, 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.

New research uses satellites to predict end of volcanic eruptions

Using infrared satellite data, researchers have successfully predicted the end of lava flow-forming eruptions. The system detects heat emissions from erupting volcanoes and analyzes them to determine when the eruption will end. This approach has significant implications for reducing disturbance caused by volcanic eruptions.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalBulletin of Volcanology·DateJul 13, 2017

Side effects not a major problem for new class of breast cancer drugs

The cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor class of oral drugs has been found to be generally well-tolerated in treating hormone receptor-positive (HR+) metastatic breast cancer. The most common side effect is a temporary and dose-dependent decrease in white blood cells, which usually returns to normal with dosage adjustments.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Oncologist·DateJul 13, 2017

Vaccines protect fetuses from Zika infection, mouse study shows

A new study shows that females vaccinated before pregnancy and infected with Zika virus while pregnant bear pups who show no trace of the virus. Two vaccines provided substantial protection against Zika infection, reducing viral genetic material in fetuses and placentas.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateJul 13, 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.

Using a microRNA to shift the makeup of glioblastoma subtypes

A study published in Cell Reports found that altering the levels of microRNA miR-128 can induce a more homogeneous subtype of glioblastoma cells, making them more responsive to treatment. This discovery opens the door for using miR-128 as a therapeutic agent.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 13, 2017

How selenium compounds might become catalysts

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have discovered that selenium can form bonds similar to those of hydrogen bonds, resulting in accelerated chemical reactions. The team's findings suggest that weaker bonds, such as hydrogens bonds, might be sufficient for activation or catalysis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 13, 2017

Building a safer lithium-ion battery

Scientists have developed a new method to track lithium ions as they travel in a battery, which could help address the safety hazard of battery failure. The researchers used fluorescence microscopy and found a fluorescent label sensitive to lithium ions, enabling them to image and track lithium ions in a battery-like environment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateJul 12, 2017

Creating music by thought alone

Researchers have developed a hands-free musical instrument that can be controlled by thoughts, allowing people with motor disabilities to play music again. The Encephalophone collects brain signals and converts them into musical notes, providing a new avenue for rehabilitation and empowerment.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJul 12, 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.

Study provides evidence for naturality of high-purity stevia leaf extract sweeteners

A recent study published in the International Journal of Food Science and Technology found that commercial-scale extraction and purification processes do not alter the steviol glycosides in high-purity stevia extracts. The research, conducted at the University of Bonn, provides evidence for the naturality of stevia, a popular plant-bas...

SourcePureCircle·JournalInternational Journal of Food Science & Technology·DateJul 12, 2017

Is a biological driver behind the need for self-fulfillment?

A new series of studies reveals that self-actualization is linked to pursuing status and esteem, which can translate into 'fitness' and passing genes to future generations. This challenges traditional assumptions about self-actualization being 'above' basic physiological and social desires.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJul 12, 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.

No statistically significant risk of ID in children from mothers using antidepressants

A study examined the risk of intellectual disability (ID) in children born to mothers treated with antidepressants and found a slightly elevated risk, but it was not statistically significant. The researchers suggest that other factors such as parental age and psychiatric history may contribute to the risk.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 12, 2017

Cyber attacks can threaten public health

A recent study highlights the growing threat of cyber attacks on information systems, with 64% of organizations reporting successful medical file targeted attacks in 2016. The authors stress the need to acknowledge public health implications of information security to improve dialogue and protect patient care.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 12, 2017

Study: After watching disturbing video, CPAP usage soars

Patients who watched videos of themselves struggling to breathe while sleeping with sleep apnea used CPAP machines three hours more per night than those who saw no video. The effect was dramatic, with patients becoming determined to fix their condition after witnessing the severity of their own sleep apnea.

SourceMediaSource·DateJul 12, 2017

New approach to leukemia can help improve successful treatment

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have developed a novel approach to treating chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), which safely increases treatment success and reduces negative side effects. The study, led by Professor Richard Clark, shows that CML patients with stable responses to treatment can reduce their medication dosage befor...

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJul 12, 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.

Expecting the worst: People's perceived morality is biased towards negativity

Researchers found that participants perceived individuals with a 'good' moral disposition as more likely to act out of character, while those with immoral traits were less likely to change perceptions. This bias can have significant consequences for those with questionable characters or facing legal proceedings.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 12, 2017