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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 42


Page 42 of 461

Physicist assumes the possibility of vestiges of an Universe previous to the Big Bang

Brazilian researcher Juliano Cesar Silva Neves challenges the standard cosmological model by proposing the elimination of the spacetime singularity and the possibility of a prior contraction phase. The current expansion may be preceded by contraction, with potential vestiges still present in the universe.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGeneral Relativity and Gravitation·DateNov 27, 2017

A series of fortunate events

Researchers traced ancient zircon minerals' chemical signatures to understand the recycling of carbon from the mantle to the surface. The study suggests a series of fortunate events led to optimal conditions for releasing anomalous amounts of carbon, which in turn shaped the modern carbon cycle.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 27, 2017

The origin of a new species of Darwin's finches

Researchers from Princeton University and Uppsala University report the origin of a new lineage of Darwin's finches through hybridization between two distinct species. The study reveals that reproductive isolation was established in just two generations, with the new lineage becoming ecologically competitive and unique.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateNov 24, 2017

High-speed quantum encryption may help secure the future internet

Researchers have developed a high-speed quantum encryption system that can transmit encryption codes five to 10 times faster than existing methods, potentially securing the future of the internet. The system uses photons of light and advanced detectors to encode and decode keys, making it secure from common attacks even with imperfect ...

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 24, 2017

When magma prevents volcanic eruptions

Researchers from UNIGE and Roma Tre used thermal and experimental models to explain caldera resurgence, a process that prevents volcanic eruptions. The leftover magma behaves like a 'rubber sheet' due to its higher viscosity, stopping the new magma from reaching the surface.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 24, 2017

Infants understand that more desirable rewards require more effort

A new study found that infants attribute more value to rewards that are harder to attain, indicating they can grasp concepts of reward and cost. Infants gaze longer at scenarios where the character chooses a less desirable reward over a more accessible one, suggesting they understand that greater effort is needed for better outcomes.

Scientists find key to regenerating blood vessels

A new study by Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute identifies a crucial signaling pathway for angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. The findings may improve current strategies to increase blood flow in ischemic tissues associated with atherosclerosis and diabetes.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 23, 2017

Climate change could increase volcano eruptions

Scientists at the University of Leeds warn that climate change could lead to more frequent volcanic eruptions in Iceland as glaciers melt. The study found a time lag of roughly 600 years between climate events and decreased volcanic activity, suggesting a similar delay may occur with warming temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGeology·DateNov 23, 2017

When friends become objects

Researchers found that Facebook users with strong materialistic values use the platform more frequently and engage deeper, objectifying their friends. The Social Online Self-Regulation Theory proposes self-regulation as the key to social media usage, aiming for a neutral attitude towards platforms.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalHeliyon·DateNov 23, 2017

Lightning, with a chance of antimatter

A team of Japanese researchers from Kyoto University used gamma-ray detectors to study the effects of lightning on atmospheric elements. They found that lightning emits positrons, a form of antimatter equivalent to electrons, through interactions with nitrogen and other elements in the atmosphere.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature·DateNov 22, 2017

Sclerosis medicine can fight multi-resistant bacteria

Researchers have discovered that glatiramer acetate, a widely used multiple sclerosis treatment, can also effectively kill certain multi-resistant bacteria. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for treating cystic fibrosis patients and may even provide insight into the underlying causes of multiple sclerosis.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 22, 2017