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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 372


Page 372 of 461

Method could speed up design of more eco-friendly fabric softeners

A new study developed a better method for evaluating fabric softeners that could lead to potentially "greener" and more millennial-friendly versions. The researchers found that the concentration of surfactant affected vesicle size and arrangement, which could help manufacturers assess efficiency and speed up design.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateMar 15, 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.

With climate change shrubs and trees expand northwards in the Subarctic

New research reveals that as taller shrubs expand into the tundra, nutrients in their leaf litter can either promote or reduce nitrogen fixation. The study, led by Kathrin Rousk and Anders Michelsen, found that warming conditions stimulate nitrogen fixation rates in mosses, but further shrub expansion will depend on dominant species.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 15, 2017

Recovery after 'Great Dying' was slowed by more extinctions

The study found two distinct extinction events linked to climate change, which slowed the world's recovery after the 'Great Dying'. The evidence suggests that modern ocean life evolved during this recovery period, and may respond similarly to current climate change.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 15, 2017

Scientists analyze dispersal of parasites by birds in the Americas

A study analyzing 24,000 blood samples from migratory and resident birds in the Americas found 79 malaria parasite lineages. The researchers discovered that prevalence varies between localities and species, with some areas having infection rates as high as 37%.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateMar 15, 2017

Using lasers to create ultra-short pulses

Researchers at FAU successfully generate electron packets with lengths of 1.3 femtoseconds, enabling imaging of atomic movements on ultra-short time scales. The method uses laser-controlled acceleration, deceleration, and deflection of electrons, paving the way for ultra-high resolution electron microscopes.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

YouTube users be aware: Your viewing habits can be tracked

Researchers have discovered that YouTube's encryption is not secure enough to protect user anonymity. A machine-learning algorithm can identify which videos a user watched with high accuracy, allowing intelligence agencies and internet marketers to track viewing habits.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateMar 15, 2017

Making vanilla flavoring with less pollution

Scientists create a more environmentally friendly way to produce vanillin by encapsulating copper-aluminum hydrotalcite in silica. The new process eliminates the need for polluting hydrochloric acid and allows for catalyst reuse.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateMar 15, 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.

New eyeless, pale catfish from middle of Amazon named

A new species of eyeless catfish has been discovered in the Amazon River, with a unique adaptation to dark environments. The Xyliphius sofiae specimen is relatively small and pale, but well-adapted to its murky habitat, where it likely feeds on micro-invertebrates.

SourceDrexel University·JournalCopeia·DateMar 15, 2017

Predicting long-term cognitive decline following delirium

Researchers have discovered a way to predict long-term cognitive decline after postoperative delirium by analyzing pre-surgery cognitive function in patients. Those with higher cognitive scores before delirium are less likely to experience cognitive decline afterwards.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·DateMar 15, 2017

Relativistic electrons uncovered with NASA's Van Allen Probes

New observations from NASA's Van Allen Probes mission show that relativistic electrons, the fastest and most energetic particles in the inner radiation belt, are not present as much of the time as previously assumed. This discovery has significant implications for spacecraft design and opens up new avenues for scientific study.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 15, 2017

Scientists identify a black hole choking on stardust

Researchers discovered a supermassive black hole 'choking' on stellar debris, producing small fluctuations in the energy emitted by the flare. The study provides insight into how black holes grow and evolve, offering a potential window into hidden black holes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 15, 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.

NASA spots sub-tropical storm 11S still swirling

Sub-tropical storm 11S, once a tropical cyclone, continues to swirl in the Southern Indian Ocean with asymmetric structure and baroclinic dynamic support. The disturbance is expected to further strengthen as it moves southward, transitioning into an extra-tropical system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 15, 2017

'Harmless' painkillers associated with increased risk of cardiac arrest

Research links common painkillers diclofenac and ibuprofen to increased risk of cardiac arrest, with diclofenac being the most hazardous. The study advises limiting ibuprofen to 1200mg per day and avoiding diclofenac in patients with cardiovascular disease or high-risk factors.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy·DateMar 15, 2017

Optical fingerprint can reveal pollutants in the air

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology propose a novel sensor method to detect molecules with ultra-thin nanomaterials, offering improved sensitivity and selectivity for environmental gas detection. The proposed sensors can identify pollutants by altering their optical fingerprint when exposed to molecules.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2017

Imagining dialogue can boost critical thinking

A new study found that students who engaged in a dialogue about two mayoral candidates created better-written persuasive essays and TV scripts. They also showed a more sophisticated understanding of knowledge, constructing opposing views leads to a richer representation of each and the differences between them.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 15, 2017

Baycrest creates first Canadian Brain Health Food Guide for adults

The Brain Health Food Guide provides evidence-based dietary advice for older adults, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Research suggests that following this guide can decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease by 36% and mild cognitive impairment by 27%.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·DateMar 15, 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.

Dissection of the 2015 Bonin deep earthquake

Researchers at Tohoku University used seismic tomography to image the three-dimensional structure of the Earth's interior, shedding new light on the deep Bonin deep earthquake. The study found that the Pacific slab is split and penetrated the lower mantle, with multiple factors contributing to its occurrence.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 15, 2017

The way the brain processes speech could serve as a predictor of early dementia

Researchers have discovered a new potential predictor of early dementia through abnormal brain activity in older adults with no noticeable communication problems. Brain regions that process speech were found to be more resilient to Alzheimer's disease, but showed changes that predicted mild cognitive impairment and dementia.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·DateMar 15, 2017

Older women taking statins face higher risk of diabetes

A University of Queensland study found that older Australian women taking cholesterol-lowering statins face a significantly increased risk of developing diabetes. The risk was highest for those taking higher doses of statins, with a 50% increase in the likelihood of new-onset diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalDrugs & Aging·DateMar 15, 2017

Novel mechanism that detains mobile genes in plant genome

A team of scientists has identified a previously unknown mechanism that keeps transposable elements from causing harm by detaining them at the cell membrane. This discovery opens up new avenues for research on similar mechanisms in other organisms.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateMar 15, 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.

Foreign graduate students and postdocs consider leaving the US

A second executive order has prompted foreign graduate students and postdoctoral researchers to look elsewhere for educational and job opportunities in the US. The move has raised concerns about the future prospects of these students and the impact on US competitiveness in science and engineering.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 15, 2017

Hepatitis C mutations 'outrun' immune systems, lab study shows

A lab study identifies mutations in hepatitis C virus that evade the natural immune system and vaccines, highlighting a major barrier to vaccine development. Researchers found that these mutations occur outside of traditional vaccine targets and confer resistance to commonly used antibodies.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 15, 2017

Age not a factor in success of shoulder replacement surgery

A recent Henry Ford Health study suggests that age is not a factor in the success of shoulder replacement surgery. The research analyzed data from patients under 65 and those older than 75 with osteoarthritis, finding that both groups experienced significant improvement in shoulder function after surgery.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateMar 15, 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.

Study clusters health behavior groups to broaden public health interventions

A new study identified seven health behavior patterns based on smoking status, alcohol use, physical activity, physician visits and flu vaccination, which are associated with mortality. The research highlights the importance of considering behavioral decisions across multiple behaviors to create more effective interventions.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 15, 2017

Better barcoding: New library of DNA sequences improves plant identification

A new database of genetic information, developed by researchers at Emory University, has improved the accuracy of plant identification using DNA sequencing technologies. The new library uses the rbcL gene, a popular barcode in plants, to identify species from tiny amounts of material, enabling faster and more accurate analysis.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateMar 15, 2017

New guidelines for treatment and management of COPD exacerbations

The new guidelines cover antibiotic and corticosteroid therapy for outpatients with mild and moderate exacerbations. The recommendations also include starting pulmonary rehabilitation 3 weeks after discharge from hospital following a severe exacerbation.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateMar 15, 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.

New electron source for materials analysis

Researchers at Jülich's Peter Grünberg Institute have created a new method for high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS) that allows for fast and efficient measurements. This innovation enables scientists to investigate unstable or sensitive samples, paving the way for breakthroughs in materials analysis.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMar 15, 2017

The looming threat of Asian tobacco companies to global health

Researchers found Asian tobacco companies are shifting from domestic focus to transnational expansion through government support, manufacturing for export, and new product development. This shift is expected to lead to a further increase in tobacco-related deaths worldwide, totaling six million annually.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalGlobal Public Health·DateMar 15, 2017

Fighting MRSA with new membrane-busting compounds

Researchers have developed a new class of compounds called lysine-conjugated aliphatic norspermidine analogues (LANAs) that effectively kill certain bacteria, including MRSA. Testing on mice showed that the compounds can eliminate MRSA skin infections with no signs of acute toxicity or resistance development.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBioconjugate Chemistry·DateMar 15, 2017

High uric acid levels in young children may result in higher blood pressure later on

A new study published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that high uric acid levels in very young children are associated with higher blood pressure at 3 years of age. The research suggests that maintaining appropriate levels of serum uric acids from early life may help reduce the risk of future increased blood pressure.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateMar 15, 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.

Zebrafish without stripes

Dowling-Degos disease patients with PSENEN gene mutations display unusual pigment cell behavior in zebrafish, leading to similar skin patterns. The discovery provides new insights into the causes of acne inversa and its link to the genetic disorder.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 14, 2017

Study quantifies effect of 'legacy phosphorus' in reduced water quality

A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison reveals that abundant soil phosphorus in the Yahara watershed has a direct and long-lasting impact on water quality. Eliminating overabundance of phosphorus could improve lake and river quality by reducing summertime phosphorus concentrations.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEcosystems·DateMar 14, 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.

Breathtaking gene discovery in Dalmatian dogs

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified a novel gene associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in Dalmatian dogs. The gene study found that the disorder results from a defect in an anillin protein which binds to actin, leading to abnormal regeneration capacity of the bronchiolar epithelium.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 14, 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.

High rate of return to running following arthroscopic hip surgery

Research shows that arthroscopic hip surgery is effective in improving running ability, with 96% of recreational and competitive runners returning to their sport within nine months. However, increasing BMI and longer time without running prior to surgery are associated with slower recovery.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 14, 2017

Spiders eat 400-800 million tons of prey every year

Zoologists at the University of Basel and Lund University found that spiders kill an enormous number of insects worldwide, with estimates ranging from 400-800 million tons per year. This has significant implications for maintaining ecological balance in nature.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Science of Nature·DateMar 14, 2017

Rethinking the use of warnings with transcript and video evidence in trials

A study by the University of Liverpool found that providing a judicial warning when presenting transcript and video evidence to jurors improves their assessment of witness reliability. The research suggests that warnings are necessary in some cases, such as when video evidence is presented alone, and can help jurors consider the credib...

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalThe Journal of Psychology·DateMar 14, 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.

Experimental Ebola vaccine regimen induced durable immune response, study finds

A Phase 1 clinical trial found that a two-vaccine regimen against Ebola virus disease induced an immune response that persisted for approximately one year in healthy adult volunteers. The investigational vaccines used harmless viral vectors to deliver proteins of the Ebola virus, prompting an immune response.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJAMA·DateMar 14, 2017

Most atrial fibrillation patients don't get preventive drug before stroke

A study of over 94,000 patients with atrial fibrillation found that only 16% received recommended anticoagulation therapy prior to stroke. Patients who did receive treatment had less severe stroke outcomes and lower mortality rates. Adherence to guidelines could prevent up to 88,000 strokes per year in the US

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateMar 14, 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.

Topical curcumin gel effective in treating burns and scalds

Research published in BioDiscovery found that topical curcumin gel significantly reduces burn and scald severity, lessens pain, and improves healing with minimal scarring. Dr. Madalene Heng's study suggests curcumin's anti-inflammatory activity is key to its effectiveness.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiscovery·DateMar 14, 2017

Money, not access, key to resident food choices in 'food deserts'

A new study finds that financial resources are the primary factor limiting diet choices in so-called 'food deserts', where residents often have to travel long distances and spend more time and money to shop at supermarkets. The study suggests that improving affordability is crucial to addressing public health concerns in these areas.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition·DateMar 14, 2017

In times of plenty, penguin parents keep feeding their grown offspring

In a study published in The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, researchers found that fully grown Galapagos penguins who have fledged from their nests continue to beg for food from their parents. This post-fledging parental care is thought to be an adaptation to the fluctuating availability of food in the Galapagos archipelago.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Wilson Journal of Ornithology·DateMar 14, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.