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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 298


Page 298 of 461

NASA caught Tropical Storm Adrian quickly losing steam

Tropical Storm Adrian formed on May 10, but quickly lost steam, weakening to a remnant low pressure area by May 11. The storm's maximum sustained winds dropped to near 30 mph (45 kph), with some further weakening forecast over the next 48 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 11, 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.

Compound corrects iron-delivery defects

Researchers discovered Hinokitiol's ability to transport iron across cell membranes, correcting anemia caused by genetic deficiencies. The compound also promotes iron gut absorption and hemoglobin creation, suggesting its potential for treating human diseases.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience·DateMay 11, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Beauty requires thought, neuroscientists find

A team of neuroscientists confirms Immanuel Kant's 18th-century claim that experiencing beauty requires thought. The study found that adding a distraction to the experience reduces feelings of pleasure and beauty in viewing beautiful images, but not those from non-beautiful things.

SourceNew York University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 11, 2017

Biological activity found to affect aerosols produced from sea spray

Scientists discovered that biological activity in sea spray affects the chemical composition of aerosol particles, making them more complex and diverse. This finding could improve the accuracy of atmospheric and climate models, which play a crucial role in understanding the impact of sea spray on climate.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalChem·DateMay 11, 2017

This myth smells fishy

A recent review by John McGann suggests that humans' ability to detect certain scents is superior to other animals, such as dogs. The study highlights the importance of smell in human communication and mate choice, challenging the long-held notion that humans have an inferior sense of smell.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 11, 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.

Saying goodbye to glaciers

The melting of glacial ice contributes to sea-level rise, displacing millions of people, while glaciers also serve as a source of fresh water. However, researchers like Twila Moon warn that glaciers are shrinking at an alarming rate, with devastating consequences for the planet's weather and climate systems.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateMay 11, 2017

Belief increases buzz: Mixing energy drinks and alcohol

A study by INSEAD found that labeling energy drinks as part of an alcohol cocktail increases perceived intoxication, leading to greater risk-taking, sexual confidence, and decreased intentions to drive. The effects were stronger for those who believed energy drinks boost the effect of liquor.

SourceINSEAD·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateMay 11, 2017

Research suggests link between imbalanced gut microbiome and systemic sclerosis

A study found that Americans with systemic sclerosis had a greater imbalance of good and bad gut bacteria compared to Norwegians. The researchers believe this difference is due to genetics and diet, which could lead to new treatments by restoring balance through diet modification, probiotics, and fecal transplantation.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalBMJ Open Gastroenterology·DateMay 11, 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.

Six-legged livestock -- sustainable food production

A study published in Journal of Cleaner Production found that cricket farming can be a more environmentally sustainable way to produce animal source foods. The research compared cricket production to broiler chicken production and identified areas for further improvement, such as exploring alternative feed sources.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateMay 11, 2017

Laundered in space

University of Arizona College of Engineering senior Christina Morrison develops antimicrobial socks using silver and hydrogen peroxide, achieving a nearly 5-log reduction in bacteria on treated material. The innovative design aims to reduce the need for water-based laundry in space, saving mass and allowing longer missions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateMay 10, 2017

Study finds worsening outcomes in service members 5 years after mild blast-induced concussion

A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that US military service members who experienced a mild concussion after blast injury may continue to experience mental health symptoms and decreased quality of life for at least five years. The study also highlights the need for more effective, long-term treatment strategies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMay 10, 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.

Stroke, MS patients walk significantly better with neural stimulation

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a neural stimulation system that improves walking ability for stroke and MS patients. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) significantly helped patients walk more effectively, with one patient covering nearly a mile and another gaining balance and confidence.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateMay 10, 2017

Loss of spinal nerve fibers not the only cause of disability in multiple sclerosis

A study by Queen Mary University of London found that axonal loss in multiple sclerosis (MS) is not the sole cause of chronic disability. The researchers discovered a substantial loss of synaptic connections in the MS spinal cord, which may drive disability. This new understanding could help identify targets for new treatments.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBrain Pathology·DateMay 10, 2017

Genome sequence of fuel-producing alga announced

The genome of Botryococcus braunii has been sequenced, revealing 18,500 genes and potential biosynthetic pathways for hydrocarbon production. The findings could enable the use of algae as a renewable fuel source without modifying existing infrastructure.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalGenome Announcements·DateMay 10, 2017

New light sensing molecule discovered in the fruit fly brain

Researchers have identified a seventh rhodopsin, Rh7, expressed in the brain of fruit flies where it regulates circadian rhythms and daily activity patterns. The discovery sheds light on the role of light-sensitive opsins in setting circadian rhythms and has potential implications for understanding degenerative retinal disorders.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 10, 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.

CCNY, TechnoVax translational research leads to potential Zika virus vaccine

Researchers at City College of New York and TechnoVax have successfully developed a vaccine against the Zika virus using a novel virus-like particle (VLP) technology. The VLP formulations were found to be highly effective in eliciting protective antibodies while being well-tolerated and safe.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 10, 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.

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.

Estimating the size of animal populations from camera trap surveys

Researchers have developed new methods to estimate wild animal population sizes from camera trap data, enhancing effective wildlife management and conservation. This approach facilitates improved information about animal abundance and its variation in space and time.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateMay 10, 2017

Study beefs up support for brain cells that control protein hunger

Researchers identified brain cells in fruit flies responsible for regulating protein levels, promoting a single-minded focus on eating protein when starved. The study's findings may have implications for addressing the obesity epidemic by understanding how protein intake affects caloric intake.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalScience·DateMay 10, 2017

3-D-printed 'bionic skin' could give robots the sense of touch

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a revolutionary process for 3D printing stretchable electronic sensory devices that can give robots the ability to feel their environment. The discovery also has potential applications for printing electronics on real human skin, enabling new forms of wearable technology.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 10, 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.

Consumers misled by gluten-free foods, study finds

A study finds that gluten-free items have a significantly higher energy content and different nutritional composition compared to their gluten-containing counterparts. This could impact children's growth and increase the risk of childhood obesity.

SourceSpink Health·DateMay 10, 2017

The extent of neuronal loss in the brain during MS

A study by Queen Mary University of London researchers found significant neuronal loss in MS brains, with a 39% difference in neuron count compared to healthy controls. Cortical volume and density were also affected, highlighting the importance of early treatment.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNeuropathology and Applied Neurobiology·DateMay 10, 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.

Laser, sound waves provide live views of organs in action

Researchers at Duke University and CalTech have developed a hybrid imaging technology that combines light and ultrasound to provide live, holistic views of small animal organs. This technique breaks the resolution and speed barriers in whole-body imaging, enabling functional imaging of entire bodies with sub-millimeter-level resolution.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 10, 2017

Tai chi relieves insomnia in breast cancer survivors

A study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology reveals that tai chi is an effective treatment for insomnia in breast cancer survivors, improving sleep health, depressive symptoms, and fatigue. The slow-moving meditation practice works just as well as cognitive behavioral therapy and better than medication.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 10, 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.

How cells combat Salmonella

A team of researchers has discovered an inflammatory signaling platform that cells use to defend against Salmonella infections, which may lead to the development of new antibiotic treatments. The study found that protein chains relay pro-inflammatory signals to trigger degradation of bacteria and restrict their proliferation.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 10, 2017

Virtual support groups help grieving spouses with depression

A new study by University of Arizona researchers found that virtual reality support groups can be an effective tool for older adults dealing with grief and depression. Participants showed improvements in stress, loneliness, and sleep quality, but only those in the virtual reality group reported a reduction in symptoms of depression.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMay 10, 2017

Early epigenetic switches associated with childhood bone health

The study analyzed umbilical cord tissue from 669 babies and found a link between higher DNA methylation in the CDKN2A gene and lower bone mass at four and six years. This suggests that epigenetic modifications early in life may play a role in determining skeletal growth.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateMay 10, 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.

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Donna shearing apart

Tropical Cyclone Donna was being weakened by strong wind shear southeast of New Caledonia. Cloud top temperatures reached -70 degrees Fahrenheit due to strongest thunderstorms being pushed away from the center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 10, 2017

Dread of roses: Neurobehavioral effects found in children exposed to flower pesticides

Researchers found altered short-term neurological behaviors in Ecuadorian children exposed to flower pesticides during peak Mother's Day production. Children examined shortly after the harvest displayed lower performance on measures such as attention and self-control compared to those examined later. The study suggests that pesticide e...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuroToxicology·DateMay 10, 2017

Research links genetics to early-onset pancreatitis in pediatric patients

A study published in The Journal of Pediatrics suggests that genetic mutations and family history are common risk factors for children diagnosed with acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis before age 6. Researchers analyzed 342 children and found that 71% had at least one pancreatitis-associated gene mutation.

SourceSeattle Children's·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMay 10, 2017

Kids, parents alike worried about privacy with internet-connected toys

A new study by University of Washington researchers found that kids are unaware of their toys' recording capabilities, while parents have numerous privacy concerns. The study highlights the need for toy designers to create ways to notify children when they are recording and provide parental controls to manage data.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateMay 10, 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.

Scientists help thin-film ferroelectrics go extreme

Researchers at Berkeley Lab expand the temperature range of ferroelectric materials by creating a polarization gradient in a thin film. This enables devices to operate reliably in extreme environments, reducing power consumption and component count.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 10, 2017

Story of silver birch from genomic big data

A recent study utilizing genomic big data analyzed the silver birch genome, uncovering population bottlenecks and speciation events that shaped the species' current form. The research also identified genes under natural selection, which have contributed to birch's cold tolerance and rapid growth.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 10, 2017

Stretchable hologram can switch between multiple images (video)

Researchers have developed a method to create stretchable holograms that can display multiple images, which can be switched depending on the stretching of the material. The technique uses metasurfaces and gold nanorods to generate holographic images with changing shapes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 10, 2017

At last: Beautiful, consistent carbon belts

Researchers successfully synthesized a carbon nanobelt, measuring 0.83 nm in diameter, using a novel synthetic strategy based on a macrocycle precursor. The breakthrough opens a new field of nanocarbon science and has potential applications in electronics and photonics.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalScience·DateMay 10, 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.

Molecular dynamics simulations reveal chaos in electron transport

Scientists used molecular dynamics to visualize the working of Photosystem II and discovered three channels for plastoquinone entry and exit, contradicting previous assumptions. The study provides new insights into the complex process of converting photons into electrons.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 10, 2017