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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 355


Page 355 of 461

Cornering endangered species

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara found that as certain species decline in number, their geographic areas of occupation also shrink. This makes them easier targets for hunters and fishermen, increasing the risk of extinction. The study highlights the importance of well-managed harvests to prevent overharvesting.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2017

Asian dust providing key nutrients for California's giant sequoias

Researchers have found that dust from the Gobi Desert is providing more phosphorus than previously thought for plants in the Sierra Nevada mountains, including giant sequoias. The study suggests that dust may be shaping this iconic California ecosystem and could help predict forest response to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 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.

Why don't Americans have a name for the color 'light blue?'

Researchers found that Japan has unique color terms like 'mizu' and 'kon', while the US uses words like 'teal' and 'lavender'. The study reveals differences in color language between modern societies, highlighting the evolution of color terminology through interaction.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Vision·DateMar 28, 2017

New type of sensor material developed

Researchers at Hokkaido University have created a nickel complex that changes color and magnetism when exposed to methanol vapor. The material exhibits vapochromic properties, making it suitable for chemical sensing applications.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 28, 2017

Igniting a solar flare in the corona with lower-atmosphere kindling

Researchers use new telescope images to reveal the emergence of small-scale magnetic fields in the corona, which may trigger solar flares. The study suggests that these magnetic field structures are linked to the onset of a main flare and could help predict flares with more precision.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 28, 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.

Stop eating! You are full

Researchers have discovered a molecule sent by fat cells to the fly brain that signals when energy stores are sufficient, inhibiting feeding behavior. This finding suggests a potential appetite-suppression mechanism in humans and may lead to new weight management strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

The physics of wealth inequality

A Duke University professor proposes that wealth inequality is governed by a physical law, where systems evolve to increase access to flow. This natural tendency governs the distribution of wealth in economies, with hierarchical movement leading to greater disparities.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 28, 2017

Seabird bones, fossils reveal broad food-web shift in North Pacific

Scientists analyzed seabird bones to find evidence of a significant change in the North Pacific's food web, likely caused by human activities such as industrial fishing. The study found that petrels' trophic level had declined over time, suggesting a shift in the structure of the ocean's ecosystem.

SourceSmithsonian·DateMar 28, 2017

Abuse accelerates puberty in children

New Penn State research reveals that childhood sexual abuse can accelerate physical growth and maturation in adolescents, increasing the risk of behavioral and mental health problems. The study found that young girls with a sexual abuse history were more likely to transition into higher puberty stages earlier than non-abused peers.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMar 28, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

SHSU study examines death penalty support in Mexico

A recent study by Sam Houston State University researchers found that Mexican citizens are more likely to support the death penalty than previously thought. Contrary to U.S. studies, Catholics in Mexico were found to be more likely to support capital punishment, while older Mexicans and those living in states bordering the U.S. were le...

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalCrime & Delinquency·DateMar 28, 2017

Rogue breast tumor proteins point to potential drug therapies

Researchers analyzed proteins in breast tumors and found multiple protein targets that could respond to drugs, including PI3K inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors. The study also identified potential benefits for HER2 positive breast cancer patients if analysis of tumor proteins is taken into consideration.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

Biomechanical analysis of head injury in pediatric patients

A new study analyzed the biomechanics of head injury in pediatric patients with concussions, using physical and computational models to simulate impacts. The researchers found that youths are at higher risk of concussive injury at lower event severities, but no clear predictors for persistent symptoms were identified.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·DateMar 28, 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 molecular on/off switch for CRISPR

Researchers have discovered how viruses disable CRISPR-Cas systems, a sophisticated defense mechanism against bacterial infections. Anti-CRISPR proteins lock down the system's ability to identify and attack viral DNA, making them 'exceptionally clever' evolutionary tools.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateMar 28, 2017

Sharing expert experimental knowledge to expedite design

A new SBOL repository has been created to optimize metabolic processes and facilitate design of useful synthetic biological systems. The repository contains thousands of chemical compounds, enzyme classes, and metabolic reactions from nearly 4000 organisms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateMar 28, 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.

How does oxygen get into a fuel cell?

Researchers at TU Wien have found a way to explain the reasons why oxygen does not always enter fuel cells effectively. By making targeted alterations to the surface of fuel cells on an atomic scale and taking measurements simultaneously, they discovered that strontium atoms cause problems and cobalt can be useful in fuel cells.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 28, 2017

It's not too late to conserve water resources in rapidly urbanizing areas

A UMass Amherst study suggests that conserving water resources in rapidly urbanizing areas is crucial due to climate change and population pressure. By adopting green infrastructure design and water conservation incentives, towns can reduce surface runoff and improve water quality.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Water and Climate Change·DateMar 28, 2017

Subaru telescope detects the shadow of a gas cloud in an ancient proto-supercluster

Researchers used Subaru Telescope to create extensive map of neutral hydrogen gas in ancient proto-supercluster. The study revealed the region is rich in gas, which is a major building block of galaxies. Gas distribution does not align perfectly with galaxies' distribution within the proto-supercluster.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 28, 2017

5,000 and counting: Penn Medicine celebrates reconstruction milestone

The division has achieved this milestone through its focus on breast reconstruction, head and neck surgeries, and leg surgeries, providing patients with a more natural appearance. The team's growth has also enabled them to conduct more research, publishing nearly five times as many papers in peer-reviewed journals.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Brain stimulation improves schizophrenia-like cognitive problems

A study from the University of Iowa Health Care found that cerebellar stimulation in rats with schizophrenia-like thinking problems restored normal brain activity in the frontal cortex and corrected timing deficits. The researchers used optogenetics to stimulate the rats' cerebellar region, which led to improved cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 28, 2017

New strategy identifies potential drugs and targets for brain repair

Researchers have discovered small molecule drugs that activate signaling pathways leading to specific adult brain cell types from stem cells. These findings provide new insights into neural development and repair, identifying several new approved drugs with potential therapeutic value for brain injury repair.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Which self-help websites actually improve health? New research yields a list

Researchers compiled a list of over 40 online programs with evidence from randomized controlled trials, finding nearly 80% were unavailable to the public. The sites address various health issues, including depression, weight loss, and chronic pain, and offer interactive modules and assignments to complete.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMar 28, 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.

Sex-shifting fish: Growth rate could determine sea lamprey sex

A USGS and Michigan State University study discovered that slower sea lamprey growth rates during the larval phase increase the odds of becoming male. In productive environments, only 56% of sea lampreys were male after three years, whereas in unproductive lakes, 78% became male.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateMar 28, 2017

A basis for the application of drought indices in China

A recent study evaluates the regional applicability of seven drought indices in China, including PDSI, SPI, SPEI, and SWI. The results show that some indices perform well in certain regions, while others may not be suitable for specific areas due to empirical parameters or sensitivity to temperature anomalies.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 28, 2017

Scientist pioneers technology new to MSU, maps giant virus

A team of MSU scientists mapped a giant Samba virus using DIY cryo-electron microscopy technology, revealing its structure and biological mechanisms. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for diseases caused by similar viruses.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalViruses·DateMar 28, 2017

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Debbie make landfall in Queensland

Tropical Cyclone Debbie made landfall in Queensland bringing heavy rainfall and hurricane-force winds. NASA's satellite imagery showed a large area of cloud top temperatures in thunderstorms around the storm's eye, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 28, 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.

Lead exposure in childhood linked to lower IQ, lower status

A long-term study of over 500 children found that higher blood lead levels in childhood were associated with lower IQ points and lower adult occupational standing. The effects are slight but significant, suggesting that even small amounts of lead exposure can have lasting impacts on cognitive abilities.

SourceDuke University·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 2017

Protein identified as potential druggable target for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have identified arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) as a potential therapeutic target for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a deadly form of pancreatic cancer with limited treatment options. PRMT1 plays a crucial role in tumor development and maintenance, and i...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateMar 28, 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.

Viruses in the oceanic basement

Scientists have discovered novel viruses in oceanic basement fluids, infecting microorganisms and influencing the chemical balance of oceans. The study provides insights into the origins of life and the role of viruses in shaping life on Earth.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalmBio·DateMar 28, 2017

Novel approach can reveal personalized breast cancer treatments

Researchers developed a new method to design more effective breast cancer treatments by combining patient-derived xenografts and proteogenomic integration. This approach allows for the identification of potential targets for drugs and has shown promise in suppressing tumor growth in laboratory models.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

Information storage with a nanoscale twist

A team of scientists has discovered a new rotational force inside magnetic vortices that makes it easier to design ultra-high capacity disk drives. The finding was made using intense x-rays and revealed a non-adiabatic spin-transfer torque that is crucial for electrical manipulations.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 28, 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.

TSRI researchers develop new method to 'fingerprint' HIV

Scientists at TSRI have developed a method to analyze the glycan shield on HIV's protective outer glycoprotein, enabling the creation of a 'fingerprint' to identify potential vaccine targets. The new method saves time and has revealed that the glycoprotein does not have as many holes as previously predicted.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

New quantum gadget could make contactless payment more secure

Researchers at Oxford University have developed a system to transmit quantum keys, ensuring data security and detecting eavesdropping. The prototype uses movable mirrors and ultrafast LEDs to send secret pin-codes over short distances, improving the security of contactless transactions.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 28, 2017

Broad support exists for larger warnings on cigarette packs

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that over 78% of US adults supported larger health warnings on cigarette packs, even among smokers. The researchers suggest that these findings support the implementation of larger pack warnings as required by the 2009 Tobacco Control Act.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 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.

Researchers find video games influence sexist attitudes

A new study of over 13,000 adolescents found a link between video game exposure and sexism. The research suggests that repeated exposure to media influences how we perceive social realities, and that video games can shape attitudes towards women.

SourceIowa State University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 28, 2017

Entrepreneurs love their companies like parents love their children

A study by the University of Helsinki found that entrepreneurs exhibit similar brain behavior to parents when viewing images of their own companies, suggesting that emotional attachment plays a crucial role in entrepreneurial success. This attachment is linked to confidence levels and can impact risk perception.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateMar 28, 2017

Poor outlook for biodiversity in Antarctica

A new study by an international team of scientists has found that Antarctica's biodiversity and conservation management are similar to those globally. Despite some areas of improvement, such as invasive species management, overall progress is lagging behind global targets.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Early use of marijuana can increase its negative health impacts

A new study by James McIntosh suggests that early marijuana use can lead to negative impacts on physical and mental health, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and increased risk of respiratory diseases. Young users who start using marijuana before the age of 15 are more likely to experience these effects.

SourceConcordia University·JournalHealth·DateMar 28, 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.

Why does the same exercise exert effects on individuals differently?

A study at Kanazawa University found that individuals with higher selenoprotein P levels exhibit reduced responses to physical exercise. The research team demonstrated that mice deficient in selenoprotein P showed improved exercise capacity and reduced blood glucose levels after exercise training. Furthermore, women with high selenopro...

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 28, 2017

Key research priorities for agricultural microbiomes identified

Researchers call for a coordinated effort to understand plant-microbiome interactions to improve plant health and agricultural productivity. Five key research priorities are proposed to address nutrient use, stress tolerance, disease resistance, microbiome assembly, and functional mechanisms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Women with insurance coverage for IVF more likely to have live birth

A recent study published in JAMA Network found that women with insurance coverage for IVF were more likely to attempt the procedure again and had a higher probability of live birth compared to those who self-paid. The research, conducted at Washington University in St. Louis, included 1,572 women and observed them through four cycles.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 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.

NIST physicists show ion pairs perform enhanced 'spooky action'

Physicists at NIST have confirmed that particles of matter can exhibit 'spooky action' through quantum entanglement. The experiment closed two loopholes in conventional Bell tests, demonstrating the high quality of entangled states.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 28, 2017

ASCO and Cancer Care Ontario update guideline on radiation therapy for prostate cancer

The ASCO and Cancer Care Ontario have updated their clinical practice guideline on brachytherapy for patients with prostate cancer. The new guidelines recommend different treatment options for patients with varying risk levels, including low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk prostate cancer. For eligible patients, brachytherapy is...

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 28, 2017

Malaria parasites 'walk through walls' to infect humans

Scientists have identified two parasite proteins that allow Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites to quickly traverse human cells and infect liver cells. This discovery could lead to the development of new antimalarial treatments and vaccines to combat the disease.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 28, 2017

Hair spacing keeps honeybees clean during pollination

Researchers at Georgia Tech studied the honeybee cleaning process and found that hair spacing is essential for removing up to 15,000 particles in three minutes. The unique spacing allows the forelegs to collect as much pollen as possible with each swipe.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateMar 28, 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.