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Science News Archive April 2017


Page 20 of 37

Could New York neighborhood noise be good for poor residents?

Researchers observed lower body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure among low-income individuals living in the city's noisiest neighborhoods. The study suggests that neighborhood noise may have an indirect impact on health, potentially due to increased physical activity resulting from walkability.

Advantage: Water

Scientists have determined that water is only slightly more likely to stay in one piece as it binds to the catalyst surface than it is to form hydroxyl pairs. This small advantage has significant implications for industries using titanium dioxide, including alternative fuel production and solar energy.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Brain tissue from a petri dish

Researchers at the University of Luxembourg have successfully grown brain-like cultures from human stem cells, mirroring the structure and function of the midbrain. This breakthrough allows for the study of Parkinson's disease mechanisms and potential treatments, as well as reducing animal testing in brain research.

Computer game helps scientists understand animal camouflage

Researchers from the University of Exeter used online computer games to test animal camouflage and colour vision. They found that trichromats, like humans, outperformed dichromats in finding camouflaged prey, but dichromats improved faster over time.

Citizen scientists help identify shorebird extinction threat

A study published in Nature Communications found that migratory shorebirds are declining due to dependence on mudflats in the Yellow Sea. The researchers analyzed citizen science data and found that even brief visits to the mudflats were crucial for population trends.

UVA finds way to view genes inside living cells

Scientists have developed a way to track genes inside living cells, mapping their positions in three dimensions. This approach could lead to a better understanding of gene interactions and their effects on health, potentially leading to new treatments and cures for cancer and other genetic diseases.

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.

EU funds research on biofuels and infectious diseases

The European Union has funded two projects at Goethe University Frankfurt: one on producing environmentally friendly fuels from bacteria that can use carbon dioxide as a feedstock, and another on understanding how bacteria manipulate the ubiquitin system to their advantage in infectious diseases such as Salmonella and Shigella.

Cassini detects hydrothermal processes on one of Saturn's moons

The Cassini spacecraft detected molecular hydrogen in the plume of Saturn's moon Enceladus, suggesting hydrothermal reactions between hot rocks and water. This finding indicates that Enceladus' sub-surface ocean may support life, making it a promising candidate for astrobiological research.

People sensitive to sexual disgust more likely to be Kantian

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that individuals sensitive to sexual disgust are more likely to make duty-based moral judgments, similar to those who follow Immanuel Kant's moral philosophy. This is surprising, as previous research has shown no connection between moral disgust sensitivity and moral preferences.

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.

The new method of analysis in record high speed DNA assay device

The new synergistic PCR (sPCR) technique developed by Curiosity Diagnostics combines the advantages of analogue and digital PCR methods. It offers faster analysis times, reduced calibration requirements, and increased accuracy in detecting genetic material. The method is particularly useful for laboratory staff to independently verify ...

The relationship between drug injection risk behaviors and immune activation

Research finds that injecting drugs triggers immune system inflammation, harming chronic disease progression; cessation of injections can reduce immune activation levels. Harm reduction strategies, such as treatment for hepatitis C and encouraging injection frequency reductions, may also have positive effects.

'Bad' air may impact 'good' cholesterol increasing heart disease risk

Research suggests that high levels of traffic-related air pollution can lead to lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, also known as "good" cholesterol. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by reducing the number and functionality of HDL particles.

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.

Biased bots: Human prejudices sneak into artificial intelligence systems

Researchers found that machine learning programs can acquire cultural biases from online language patterns, affecting tasks like image categorization and automated translations. This study highlights the importance of identifying and addressing bias in AI systems to promote fairness and equality.

Deciphering plant immunity against parasites

A team of researchers identified a protein called NILR1 in thale cress that helps plants sense and defend against parasitic worms. The discovery could lead to the development of crop plants with enhanced protection against nematodes.

Policymakers 'flying blind' into the future of work

The study emphasizes the need for new labor data to assess and predict how computer and robotic technologies affect workplaces. Researchers recommend focusing on uniquely human characteristics in education and training to prepare students for a constantly changing workforce.

Technique improves breast reduction outcomes

Researchers found that using techniques that minimize disruption to the lower breast suspensory ligaments improves breast reduction outcomes. The study suggests that preserving these ligaments reduces pseudoptosis, a common long-term complication of breast reduction surgery.

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.

Think you can handle your alcohol? Study may urge some drinkers to think again

Researchers found that heavy drinkers developed behavioral tolerance to alcohol on simpler fine motor tasks, such as the Grooved Pegboard Test, but not on more complex tasks like the Digit Symbol Substitution Test. Despite faster metabolism, heavy drinkers showed similar levels of impairment on these tasks compared to light drinkers.

Viral fossils reveal how our ancestors may have eliminated an ancient infection

Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered that our primate ancestors evolved a defense mechanism against an ancient virus by manipulating its gene function, leading to its extinction. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic material used by animals to combat viruses, sometimes resulting in viral extinction.

Kidney disease is a major cause of cardiovascular deaths

A new analysis reveals that by 2013, cardiovascular deaths due to reduced kidney function surpassed kidney failure deaths globally. Maintaining kidney health may help prevent cardiovascular diseases and deaths. The study found that reduced kidney function increases the risk of congestive heart failure, heart attacks, and strokes.

Scientists tag humpback whales in southeast Pacific

Scientists tagged 47 humpback whales with satellite transmitters in the southeast Pacific to understand their breeding area movements. The study revealed that individuals move between countries within the breeding season and that their entire breeding area extends approximately 2,600 kilometers of non-straight coastline.

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.

New study emphasizes the relative scarcity of lake water

Researchers estimate the total volume of lake water to be around 184,000-199,000 km³, highlighting its relative scarcity compared to the ocean's massive 1.3 billion km³. Human activities like climate change and water diversion significantly impact lake quality and quantity.

Next 10 years critical for achieving climate change goals

To meet the 1.5C target, global carbon emissions need to be reduced to less than 25% of energy supply by 2100 and land use change must decrease. A new study suggests that a high-renewable energy scenario could peak emissions as early as 2022.

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.

Green IT: New switching process in non-volatile spintronics devices

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have developed a new switching process for non-volatile spintronics devices using asymmetric nanorings. The process involves applying a short magnetic field pulse, which leads to an intermediate 'onion state' and subsequently results in a stable opposite magnetization of the ring.

Fewer repeat hospital admissions after 'vertical integration' of healthcare

A study published in Medical Care found that vertical integration of primary and hospital care led to a lower rate of hospital readmissions. The analysis included nearly 1.2 million hospital admissions between 2004 and 2013, resulting in a relative ten percent decrease in the probability of unplanned readmission.

25 is 'golden age' for the ability to make random choices

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that humans' ability to make random choices peaks around age 25 and declines thereafter. The researchers assessed over 3,400 participants and used online tasks to evaluate their algorithmic randomness.

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.

Crooked bite may indicate early life stress

University of Washington researchers find that an asymmetric lower face may indicate early life stress, with one in four US adolescents showing such asymmetries. The study used data from the National Health Examination Survey to investigate lower-face asymmetry as a potential marker for developmental instability.

Scientists discover master switch to turn on silent biosynthetic gene clusters

Researchers at Princeton University have discovered a master switch that 'switches on' silent biosynthetic gene clusters in bacteria, leading to the production of new compounds with anti-parasitic properties. The global regulator, scmR, acts as a gatekeeper for expression and can be eliminated genetically to release molecules of interest.

The Black Panther Party -- its struggles and achievements

A new special issue of the Journal of African American Studies explores the Black Panther Party's diversity, complexity, and impact on the Black Liberation Struggle. The issue features reflections, interviews with former Panthers, and insights into recent books on the BPP, offering a nuanced perspective on this militant group.

AI systems exhibit gender and racial biases when learning language

A new study reveals AI systems retain biases seen in humans, with European American names associated more with pleasant stimuli. The research uses statistical analysis of word associations to demonstrate these findings, which have implications for understanding cultural stereotypes.

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.

When it comes to reading, kindergarten is the new first grade

A nationwide study by Ohio State University found that kindergarten is now considered the new first grade for learning reading skills. While low-achieving students showed gains in basic skills, they struggled with advanced reading skills, highlighting a need to adjust strategies.

How training patients for surgery shortens hospital stays and saves money

A study published in Surgery found that basic fitness and wellness coaching can reduce surgical patients' average hospital stay by two days and cut medical costs by 30 percent. The program, which includes walking and stress reduction, was shown to improve physical healing and provide emotional benefits.

The world's most spoken language is...'Terpene'

Researchers from the Netherlands Institute of Ecology discovered that micro-organisms, including bacteria and fungi, use terpenes to hold conversations. Terpenes are the most popular chemical medium for communication on the planet.

University of Illinois Department of Mathematics wins AMS Award

The University of Illinois Department of Mathematics has received the American Mathematical Society Award for its successful programs, including an internship program and active learning initiatives. The department has also expanded its Actuarial Science Program and improved student representation.

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.

UTA Nursing Professor receives $308,000 NIH grant

Mark Haykowsky and his team will study mechanisms and management of exercise intolerance in older HFpEF patients with endurance exercise training. Preserved ejection fraction is the fastest growing type of heart failure, with high mortality rates and impaired exercise tolerance.

Specialized blood vessels enhance tumor-fighting immunotherapy

Combining anti-angiogenic and immune-stimulating therapies creates specialized blood vessels that deliver cancer-fighting immune cells to tumors, leading to better therapeutic outcomes. This breakthrough research may improve treatments and prolong survival periods for patients.

Unraveling the mechanism of skin barrier formation

Researchers at Hokkaido University identified the PNPLA1 gene as essential for acylceramide synthesis, a lipid that forms the skin barrier. The study sheds light on potential treatments for skin diseases like atopic dermatitis and ichthyosis.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A battery prototype powered by atmospheric nitrogen

Researchers in China have developed a battery prototype that captures atmospheric nitrogen to generate electricity, offering a promising alternative to existing lithium-nitrogen batteries. The battery's energy output is brief but comparable to other lithium-metal batteries, making it a potential solution for renewable energy storage.

Methane seeps in the Canadian high Arctic

A field campaign on Ellef Ringnes Island revealed over 130 methane seep mounds in Cretaceous age sediments, indicating a significant release of methane during climate warming. The discovery supports concerns of potential destabilization of modern methane hydrates and has important implications for the Arctic Ocean's warming.

MicroRNA may reduce stroke risk

Researchers discovered that microRNA-210 reduces plaque instability and improves fibrous cap stability, potentially reducing the risk of stroke. Local application of microRNA-210 is being explored as a safer alternative to systemic administration, which could minimize side effects.

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.

Nuclease-resistant hybrid nanoflowers

Researchers at KAIST have synthesized DNA-copper nanoflowers using eco-friendly conditions, exhibiting high DNA loading capacities and low cytotoxicity. The hybrid nanoflowers show exceptional peroxidase activity, enabling sensitive detection of molecules.

Scientists unveil CRISPR-based diagnostic platform

Researchers have developed a highly sensitive diagnostic tool using RNA-targeting CRISPR enzyme for detecting diseases such as Zika virus and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The new system, called SHERLOCK, can detect single molecules of target RNA or DNA, enabling rapid and affordable diagnosis.

Married LGBT older adults are healthier, happier than singles, study finds

A University of Washington study found that married LGBT older adults have better physical and mental health, more social support, and greater financial resources than their single counterparts. The study also highlights the importance of understanding individual choices regarding marriage within the LGBT community.

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.

Forecasting large earthquakes along the Wasatch Front, Utah

Researchers estimate a 43% probability of at least one magnitude 6.75 or greater earthquake in the Wasatch Front region by 2070. The study, published in 2016, predicts that 22 large earthquakes have ruptured parts of the fault zone between Nephi and Brigham City over the past 6000 years.

Nanotubes that build themselves

Scientists at Lund University produced nanotubes from a single building block using molecular self-recognition, enabling controlled transport of substances like acetylcholine. The discovery could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.