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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 421


Page 421 of 461

Santa Fe Institute researchers look for life's (lower) limits

Santa Fe Institute researchers investigated the lower bound of energy required for life and found that smallest species are most protein dense. As cell size increases, RNA concentrations grow, leading to a decrease in protein density, with larger cells eventually reaching an energy limit.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Mimicking nature's cellular architectures via 3-D printing

Scientists at Harvard and MIT have developed a new 3D printing method that can create lightweight structural materials with tunable porosity, inspired by natural cellular structures. The approach uses ceramic foam ink to produce materials with exceptional stiffness and multifunctional properties.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Rapid test detects mobile resistance gene mcr-1

A rapid genotypic resistance test for colistin has been developed to detect the mobile resistance gene mcr-1, which threatens emergency antibiotics. The test demonstrated 100% sensitivity and specificity in detecting mcr-1 on plasmids.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateFeb 6, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

This spiny slug blazed a trail for snails

Scientists have unearthed a 480-million-year-old creature named Calvapilosa, an early offshoot of the line leading to modern coat-of-mail shells or chitons. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of mollusks, which includes squids, octopuses, snails, and clams.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2017

Hundreds of ancient earthworks built in the Amazon

Researchers uncovered hundreds of large, mysterious geoglyphs in Brazil's Amazon rainforest, challenging assumptions about the ecosystem. The sites were found to have been built using sustainable 'agroforestry' practices, which concentrated on economically valuable tree species.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 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.

Engineers harness stomach acid to power tiny sensors

Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women's Hospital have designed a small voltaic cell powered by acidic stomach fluids, generating enough energy to run small sensors or drug delivery devices. This innovation could offer a safer and lower-cost alternative to traditional batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

A bridge to breathing

A compact respiratory assist device is being developed to replace traditional oxygenation methods as a bridge to transplant or recovery in children with lung failure. The device aims to allow patients mobility while awaiting a transplant, potentially leading to better post-transplant outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateFeb 6, 2017

Research reveals strategy to potentially treat juvenile Batten disease

A team of researchers has discovered a novel approach to treating juvenile Batten disease by activating a protein called TFEB, which stimulates the cell to produce more lysosomes and degrade cellular waste. This breakthrough may lead to improved neurological symptoms in patients with the condition.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 2017

Potential new cancer treatment activates cancer-engulfing cells

A research group at Kobe University has discovered a potential new cancer treatment that activates cancer-engulfing cells. The treatment uses an antibody to activate macrophages, which can effectively eliminate cancer cells. This discovery could lead to the development of new and more effective cancer treatments.

SourceKobe University·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 6, 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.

Barely educated humans impact bear behavior

Researchers found that education targeting border areas between residential communities and bear habitats can limit conflicts. The study suggests that reducing urban land use can also decrease human-bear interactions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalEcological Modelling·DateFeb 6, 2017

Older than the moon

Scientists have discovered a primordial soup in the Earth's mantle older than the moon, containing helium-3, a vestige of the Big Bang. Only the hottest and most buoyant mantle plumes draw from this reservoir, suggesting it may be preserved due to its density.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2017

Study shows planet's atmospheric oxygen rose through glaciers

A new study has determined that the first Paleoproterozoic global glaciation and significant step change in atmospheric oxygenation occurred between 2,460 and 2,426 million years ago. The rise of atmospheric oxygen was characterized by significant oscillations before irreversible oxygenation of the atmosphere 2,250 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Psychotherapy normalizes the brain in social phobia

A new study reveals that successful treatment of social anxiety disorder alters key brain structures involved in processing and regulating emotions. Cognitive behavioral therapy, a central therapy for social anxiety disorder, has been shown to restore balance between cortical and subcortical brain areas.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2017

Medicaid waivers help parents of children with autism stay in the workforce

Research from Penn State College of Medicine found that Medicaid waivers improving access to home and community-based services for children with autism also support parental employment. Waiver programs with increased cost limits and enrollment limits helped lower-income households, while those with higher limits benefited higher-income...

SourcePenn State·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 6, 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.

Scientists discover helium chemistry

Researchers predict two stable helium compounds, Na2He and Na2HeO, with unique properties. The discovery sheds light on extreme conditions inside gas giant planets and stars, where helium is a major component.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 6, 2017

UNH researcher discovers a black hole feeding frenzy that breaks records

A giant black hole has been found to have fed off a nearby star for over 9 years, breaking the previous record for the longest tidal disruption event. The X-ray data suggests that the radiation from material surrounding this black hole consistently surpassed the Eddington limit.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 6, 2017

'Curiosity' exposes low CO2 level in Mars' primitive atmosphere

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that Mars' primitive atmosphere had a low CO2 level, making it inhospitable for the formation of liquid water lakes. This finding contradicts previous assumptions and suggests that the planet's climate may have been colder than previously thought.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 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.

Stanford scientists develop 'lab on a chip' that costs 1 cent to make

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a cheap and reusable diagnostic 'lab on a chip' with the help of an ordinary inkjet printer. The technology has the potential to enhance diagnostic capabilities around the world, especially in developing countries where access to early diagnostics is limited.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

How geospatial characteristics affect those most affected by HIV

A new study proposes strategies to intensify prevention efforts in communities heavily affected by HIV, highlighting structural factors that contribute to HIV disparities. Researchers found that demographic, physical and social contexts where individuals interact are associated with behavioral and biological HIV risk.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·DateFeb 6, 2017

E-cigarettes confirmed to be safer than smoking in long-term study

A long-term study found that e-cigarette users who stopped smoking cigarettes substantially reduced their intake of cancer-causing chemicals compared to those who continued to smoke. The study confirms that e-cigarettes are much safer than conventional cigarettes and may be a useful long-term quitting aid for patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Can sharks be fished sustainably? Yes (but it's going to take work)

A study found that 39 populations of sharks meet biological sustainability criteria, accounting for 9% of the global catch. The researchers offer five recommendations to achieve sustainable shark fisheries, including protection of low-productivity species and international cooperation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Scientists confirm dorado catfish as all-time distance champion of freshwater migrations

Researchers mapped the long-distance movements of four goliath catfish species and found that adult dorado catfish take up to 1-2 years to reach their spawning grounds in or near the Andes. The study reveals the incredible life histories of these fish, which migrate thousands of kilometers in both directions to complete their life cycle.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 6, 2017

Sentinels in the blood: A new diagnostic for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new diagnostic method for detecting pancreatic cancer early in its development by identifying extracellular vesicles with the surface protein EphA2. This technique shows promise for rapid and sensitive detection of various diseases based on unique EV signatures.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 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.

Cholera bacteria stab and poison enemies at predictable rates

Researchers used physics equations to track bacterial battles over sustenance and turf, gaining insights for new targeted therapies against infections. Cholera bacteria wield harpoon-like appendages covered in poison, with a correlation found between weaponry and cooperative social behavior.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 2017

Growing group of women take heart in pregnancy recommendations

Women born with complex congenital heart disease can now have successful pregnancies thanks to new guidance. The American Heart Association journal Circulation published a road map for healthcare providers, emphasizing the need for close monitoring and expert care.

SourceMediaSource·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 6, 2017

New genetic markers for COPD discovered

Researchers have identified 13 new genetic regions linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as overlap with asthma and pulmonary fibrosis. The study provides insight into the genetic basis of COPD and may lead to improved therapies for patients.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 6, 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.

Towards new IT devices with stable and transformable solitons

Researchers at IBS demonstrate manipulation of solitons, leading to the development of quaternary mathematical systems and potentially more efficient information storage. This breakthrough paves the way for new IT devices that combine silicon and solitons.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 6, 2017

New study compares the effects of direct exposure to cigarette smoke or e-cigarette vapor

Researchers compared the effects of direct exposure to cigarette smoke or e-cigarette vapor on reconstituted lung tissue, finding changes in gene expression levels and increased inflammation. The study utilized a 3D airway culture system and next-generation sequencing technologies to evaluate the biological effects.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied In Vitro Toxicology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Smarter MRI diagnosis with nano MRI lamp

Researchers developed a new platform to switch MRI signals ON only in the presence of targeted diseases. The Nano MRI Lamp uses Magnetic Resonance Tuning (MRET) to control signal strength based on distance between magnetic materials.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 6, 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.

Shifting monsoon altered early cultures in China, study says

Researchers found that the lake was six times larger and water levels were 60 meters higher than present during the early and middle Holocene period. The shifting monsoon likely altered the course of early human cultures in China, leading to changes in ecosystems and population dynamics.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Low-cost imaging system detects natural gas leaks in real time

Researchers have developed a low-cost, real-time imaging system that can detect methane gas leaks in pipelines and oil and gas facilities. The system uses active hyperspectral imaging technology and a single-pixel camera to acquire videos of gas leaking at a rate of 0.2 liters per minute.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 6, 2017

For cops, exposure to stressful situations dysregulates cortisol pattern

A study of Buffalo police officers found that exposure to stressful situations can disrupt their cortisol patterns, leading to a blunted response and increased vulnerability to cardiovascular disease. The study identified the top five most intense stressors for police officers, including encounters with violent or traumatic events.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateFeb 6, 2017

E-cigarettes safer than smoking says long-term study

A recent study has found that e-cigarette users have significantly lower levels of toxic chemicals and carcinogens in their body compared to smokers. The study also suggests that quitting smoking altogether is the best way to minimize exposure to toxins, rather than using e-cigarettes alongside traditional cigarettes.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 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.

Radiotargeted therapy with SST2 antagonists could combat multiple human cancers

Researchers have found that somatostatin receptor sst2 antagonist tracers can target a greater number of sst2 sites in non-NET tumors than agonists. The study shows high binding of the antagonist in 12 breast cancers, all renal cell carcinomas, and 5 medullary thyroid cancers, while agonist binding was low or absent in these cases.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2017

Uterine glands vital for embryo growth, successful pregnancies

Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that uterine glands produce several key factors for pregnancies beyond Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF), critical for embryo implantation. The study reveals uterine glands play additional roles in promoting pregnancy, including supporting embryo growth and development.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

New technique slashes diagnosis time during brain surgery

A new approach to surgical pathology in brain tumor patients uses stimulated Raman histology, improving speed and diagnostic efficiency. The method, tested in an operating room, produces accurate results faster than conventional methods.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

Building a better microbial fuel cell -- using paper

Scientists at the University of Rochester have created a new microbial fuel cell using a paper electrode coated with carbon paste, which outperforms traditional materials in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The innovation has significant implications for wastewater treatment and energy production.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateFeb 6, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Brisk exercise linked to better arterial health already in childhood

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that high levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity are associated with lower arterial stiffness in 6-8-year-old children. Children who engage in at least 68 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per day have better arterial health.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPediatric Exercise Science·DateFeb 6, 2017

SNAP benefits increase household spending on food, study finds

A new Brown University study found that SNAP benefits increase a household's overall spending on food each month, with an equivalent cash benefit leading to much smaller increases in food spending. Households receiving $100 in SNAP benefits spend around $50 more on food each month.

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 6, 2017

Federal law increases use of services for autism without raising out-of-pocket costs

A federal law aimed at ensuring equal insurance benefits for physical and mental health care has led to modest increases in healthcare utilization among children with autism spectrum disorder. Despite these gains, researchers highlight the need for stronger enforcement of the parity law to ensure adequate access to services.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 6, 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.

Researchers study care for undocumented immigrants with kidney failure

A new study found that states pay higher costs for care and patients face greater pain and psychological distress when they do not receive scheduled dialysis treatments. The research highlights the need to reconsider professional and societal approaches to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) for undocumented patients.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2017

Sign language users have better reaction times and peripheral vision

Researchers found that sign language users, particularly BSL interpreters, exhibit quicker reaction times and enhanced peripheral vision. Deaf adults also display exceptional visual abilities, including significantly faster reaction times than hearing adults.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 6, 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.

LED lighting could have major impact on wildlife

New research suggests that LED street lighting can have a major impact on wildlife, but that adjusting the lighting schedule and dimming it by 50% can reduce its effects. The study found that changing the way we light at night could have profound consequences for species such as predatory spiders and beetles.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 6, 2017