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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 282


Page 282 of 461

Better science faster

The Ocean Health Index (OHI) researchers adopted collaborative research tools to enhance reproducibility and streamline workflow, making their methods more transparent and efficient. This new approach enables the team to produce better science in less time, sharing their story to encourage others to adopt similar practices.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 23, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stingless bees have specialized guards to defend their colonies, study reveals

Researchers found that guard bees are significantly larger and more robust than foragers in 10 out of 28 stingless bee species analyzed. The evolution of guards with increased size likely relates to the risk of attack by parasitic robber bees, which is a common threat to many stingless bee species.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 23, 2017

VLA reveals new object near supermassive black hole in famous galaxy

Astronomers using the VLA discovered a bright new object near Cygnus A's core, suggesting it could be either a rare supernova explosion or an outburst from a second supermassive black hole. The object's characteristics indicate it may have formed when the galaxy merged with another.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateMay 23, 2017

Depression risk following natural disaster can be predicted via pupil dilation

A study by researchers at Binghamton University found that women who experienced higher levels of flood-related stress and displayed decreased pupil dilation to emotional faces were more likely to experience increases in depressive symptoms following the flood. This suggests that pupil dilation analysis could be used to identify those ...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateMay 23, 2017

CAST project places new limitations on dark matter

The CAST project has set strict limits on the probability that axions turn into photons, with no evidence of solar axions detected. This result has direct consequences for understanding astrophysical anomalies such as high energetic gamma rays and stellar heat dissipation.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 23, 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.

Special X-ray technique allows scientists to see 3-D deformations

Researchers developed a new X-ray technique to examine deformations and dislocations in nanoparticles, which affect their properties. The technique, called Bragg coherent diffraction imaging, allows scientists to reconstruct the size and shape of grain defects in three dimensions.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMay 23, 2017

How X-rays helped to solve mystery of floating rocks

Researchers used X-ray studies to investigate the floating properties of pumice rocks, finding that surface tension plays a key role in trapping gases within the rock's pores. The study provides new insights into the longevity of these rocks, which can travel thousands of miles on ocean currents.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 23, 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.

Tracking cancer's signaling pathways

A new robot technology reveals that the ADAM10 signalling pathway is activated during melanoma transformation, enabling a better diagnosis and potential simplification of detection methods. The research suggests avoiding cosmetic products with aluminium, which can activate this pathway.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 23, 2017

Comparison of antibiotic treatments for cellulitis

A recent study published in JAMA compared the effectiveness of antibiotics with and without MRSA activity for treating cellulitis. The results showed that while certain groups may benefit from these regimens, further research is needed to confirm the findings. The study also highlights limitations in the current trial design.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 23, 2017

Mystery of butterfly research resolved

Researchers employed high-resolution microscopy techniques to study the formation mechanism of butterfly wing scales. The green butterfly features separated photonic crystal domains that increase in size from base to tip, suggesting time-frozen growth stages.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 23, 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.

Follow-up imaging is less when radiologists read ED ultrasounds

A recent study found that follow-up imaging is significantly less when initial emergency department (ED) ultrasound examinations are interpreted by a radiologist rather than a nonradiologist. Radiologists interpret the vast majority of ED ultrasounds, with 81.6% of cases handled by them and 36,788 cases handled by nonradiologists.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·DateMay 23, 2017

Friends help female vampire bats cope with loss

Researchers found that female vampire bats who invest in non-kin friendships cope better when a major food donor is removed from their social network. They score more food than those who only focus on close kin relationships.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 23, 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.

Pope's encyclical boosted his credibility on climate change, especially among liberals

A study published in Cognition found that Pope Francis's 2015 encyclical on climate change increased perceptions of his credibility on the issue, particularly among liberals, but did not directly influence people's beliefs about its seriousness or effects on the poor. The study used a panel of 602 U.S. adults who completed surveys befo...

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalCognition·DateMay 23, 2017

A new tool for discovering nanoporous materials

EPFL scientists have developed a mathematical method using persistent homology to quantify similarity of pore structures in nanoporous materials. This allows searching databases for similar pore shapes and discovering new materials with optimal performance.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 23, 2017

School choice policies may impact segregation and diversity of public schools

A recent study by Erica Frankenberg found that student assignment policies in Jefferson County, Kentucky, are increasing diversity despite rising segregation. The new policies have resulted in steady enrollment growth with no evidence of flight by white or affluent students to private schools or neighboring districts.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateMay 23, 2017

Probing problems with bariatric surgery: Reoperations, variation are common

A recent study found that nearly 1 in 5 patients with lap-band surgery undergo multiple device-related reoperations, and complication rates range greatly. Accredited bariatric centers also vary significantly in their rates of serious complications, with a 17-fold difference between the highest and lowest rates.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 23, 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.

You don't see what I see?

A recent study found that cultural differences in visual processing affect the ability to discern simple differences between geometric figures. North Americans took longer to identify a straight line among tilted ones compared to Japanese volunteers.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCognitive Science·DateMay 23, 2017

Weather patterns' influence on frost timing

Researchers from the University of Utah and USGS analyzed 93 years of weather data to find that atmospheric circulation patterns account for 25-48% of variation in frost timing, while global warming contributes 3-5 days to the lengthening of the frost-free season.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 23, 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.

Enforcing a weekday bedtime could help your child get sufficient sleep

A new study published in BMC Public Health found that enforcing rules about bedtimes on weekdays significantly impacts children's sleep. Parents who enforce bedtime rules on weekdays are 59% more likely to have their child meeting sleep guidelines, according to the researchers.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMay 23, 2017

Birds, bees and other critters have scruples, and for good reason

Researchers at UC Berkeley have identified conscientiousness in a range of animal species, from birds to insects. This trait, characterized by working hard, paying attention to detail, and striving to do the right thing, is linked to evolutionary benefits such as improved hunting success and mating advantages.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateMay 23, 2017

The high plains aquifer: Can we make it last?

The High Plains aquifer is a critical water source for US agriculture, but its long-term viability is threatened by diminishing groundwater levels. The authors argue that good management practices can extend the aquifer's lifespan, but require collective effort and cooperation across disciplines and political divides.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateMay 23, 2017

Using a genetic signature to overcome chemotherapy-resistant lung cancer

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a 35-gene signature that indicates higher genetic likelihood of chemotherapy resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. This biomarker can help predict relapse and provide a new pharmacologic approach to target chemo-resistant lung cancer.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 23, 2017

Optimization of hemp-ground tire rubber/high density polyethylene composites

Researchers developed hybrid composites using hemp fibers and ground tire rubber to improve interfacial adhesion and balance stiffness and strength. The quality-over-cost ratio was optimized by combining mechanical property data with raw material costs, making the methodology applicable to various systems.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Applied Polymer Science·DateMay 23, 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.

Study: Street gangs, crime serve as deviant leisure activities for youths

A new study suggests that gang membership and criminal acts serve as deviant leisure activities for young people, filling their needs for excitement and a sense of belonging. The researchers found that many participants enjoyed the violence and experienced a rush during violent incidents, with some likening it to a drug addiction.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalLeisure Sciences·DateMay 23, 2017

American Sleep Medicine Foundation names research award recipients

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation has selected researchers Dr. Emerson Wickwire, Dr. Jessica Levenson, Dr. Benjamin Pliska, and Dr. Allen Firestone to receive research awards for their projects aimed at improving sleep health and advancing the field of sleep medicine.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateMay 23, 2017

Parents' reasons for not vaccinating children influence public attitudes toward them

A new study found that mothers who refuse to vaccinate their children are viewed more negatively than those who delay vaccines due to safety concerns. Researchers used an online survey to examine attitudes toward under-vaccinated children and their parents, revealing stigmatization regardless of reason for non-compliance.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMay 23, 2017

UT study shows snakes, thought to be solitary eaters, coordinate hunts

Researchers observed Cuban boas in bat caves and found that coordinating their positions formed a wall across the entrance, making it difficult for bats to pass without getting within striking distance. This cooperative hunting strategy was always successful, with more snakes present leading to faster capture times.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalAnimal Behavior and Cognition·DateMay 23, 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.

South highest, Northeast lowest for child auto fatalities

A new review of child-related auto fatalities found that the South had the highest number of fatalities and the Northeast the lowest, with a national mortality rate of 16%. Improper restraints and crashes on rural roads were common causes of deaths.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMay 23, 2017

Tracking down the scent of recycled plastic

A young researcher at FAU has studied what causes recycled plastic to smell, identifying key contaminants such as mouldy, cheesy, or acidic-smelling molecules. The study's findings will help scientists develop strategies for reducing odours in recycled plastics.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalJournal of Separation Science·DateMay 23, 2017

Mortality rates lower at major teaching hospitals

A recent study analyzing over 21 million Medicare discharges found that admission to a major teaching hospital was linked to a lower overall 30-day risk of death compared to nonteaching hospitals. The study, published in JAMA, also revealed differences in mortality rates among smaller and larger teaching hospitals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 23, 2017

Exposure to particulate matter from traffic and residential heating

A study by Dr. Mihkel Pindus et al found exposure to traffic-related particulate matter (PM) was associated with cardiac diseases in Tartu, Estonia, whereas PM from residential heating had no link. The results confirm the health effects of low-level PM and highlight differences in associations depending on the PM source.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Respiratory Medicine Journal·DateMay 23, 2017

Declawing linked to aggression and other abnormal behaviors in cats

A study found declawed cats exhibit increased risk of pain, aggression, and behavioral issues such as inappropriate elimination. The research highlights the importance of considering long-term health effects and exploring alternative solutions to reduce welfare concerns.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateMay 23, 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.

Online pulmonary rehabilitation not inferior to face-to-face rehab

A randomized controlled trial found that online pulmonary rehabilitation was non-inferior to in-person classes in improving exercise capacity and symptom control among patients with moderate COPD. The study used the MyPR application, which is free for UK patients with advanced COPD.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 23, 2017

A review of denoising medical images using machine learning approaches

Machine learning techniques are successfully applied to image-based diagnosis, disease detection, and prognosis in medical imaging. The review focuses on denoising methods using machine learning approaches to develop a systematic decision for diagnosing and prediction of medical images.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Medical Imaging Formerly Current Medical Imaging Reviews·DateMay 23, 2017

First study shows tie between probiotic and improved symptoms of depression

A McMaster University study found that a specific probiotic improved both gut and psychological symptoms in adults with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and mild to moderate anxiety or depression. The pilot study showed significant improvements in depression scores, associated with changes in brain areas involved in mood control.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 23, 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.

Understanding stars: How tornado-shaped flow in a dynamo strengthens the magnetic field

A new simulation based on the von-Kármán-Sodium (VKS) dynamo experiment investigates the effects of fluid resistivity and turbulence on the collimation of the magnetic field. Researchers found that using magnetized ferromagnetic materials increases the magnetic field collimation, while conducting materials weaken it. This study contrib...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateMay 23, 2017

Immunotherapy target suppresses pain to mask cancer

Researchers discovered that a molecule called PD-L1 can mask pain by suppressing nociceptive neuron activity via PD-1. This finding could lead to the development of predictive tests and treatments for pain, as well as new ways to assess immunotherapy treatment efficacy.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 23, 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.

Atomic structure of irradiated materials is more akin to liquid than glass

Researchers discover that irradiation-induced disordering in materials differs from vitrification, leading to a more disordered atomic network resembling liquids. This finding has significant implications for material selection in nuclear applications and raises safety concerns.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateMay 23, 2017

Paper: DNA may have only modest impact on sexual assault arrests

A new study found that DNA testing has a modest impact on sexual assault arrest rates, with most arrests occurring before laboratory results are available. In 7.6% of cases, DNA matches were made to suspects in the FBI's Combined DNA Index System database.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateMay 23, 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.