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Science News Archive April 2017 - Page 12


Page 12 of 37

Empowerment of women worldwide key to achieving competing goals

A study suggests that increasing women's access to education, reproductive health services, and contraceptive technologies is crucial for achieving sustainable development. Empowering women can help slow down population growth, reduce consumption of resources, and protect biodiversity.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Type of treatment for prostate cancer affects quality of life

The study found that sexual function declined after all treatments, with robotic surgery patients regaining function closest to brachytherapy and radiation levels. Urinary incontinence also decreased most for surgical patients, with robotic surgery showing slight improvement over open surgery.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateApr 20, 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.

In roundworms, fats tip the scales of fertility

Researchers discovered that fats can tip the scales of fertility in roundworms by monitoring fatty acid levels using an enzyme called acyl-CoA synthase 4 (ACS-4). This phenomenon has implications for future studies into human fertility and reproductive development.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2017

'Eating with the eyes' is hard-wired in the brain

Researchers at Japan's National Institute of Genetics discovered a direct neural link connecting the brain's visual system to its feeding center, linking visual perception of food to feeding motivation. This study, using genetically engineered zebrafish, shows that 'eating with the eyes' is deeply rooted in evolution.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2017

Genetic evidence points to nocturnal early mammals

Researchers found that early mammalian ancestors enhanced their night vision genes, allowing them to thrive in the dark. This study supports existing fossil evidence and sheds light on the evolution of vision in mammals.

SourceStanford University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 2017

Light rays from a supernova bent by the curvature of space-time around a galaxy

An international team of physicists and astronomers has detected for the first time multiple images from a gravitationally lensed Type Ia supernova. The observations suggest that this phenomenon can be used to test key cosmological theories about the accelerating expansion of the universe and the distribution of dark matter. By analyzi...

SourceStockholm University·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fungi have enormous potential for new antibiotics

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology discovered over 1000 pathways in fungi to produce natural and bioactive chemicals. The findings show vast potential for fungi to produce new antibiotics, efficient production of existing ones, and potentially more effective versions.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 20, 2017

Periodic model predicts the spread of Lyme disease

A periodic time-delayed model of Lyme disease predicts its spread in North America and Canada, incorporating seasonality and climate factors. The model suggests that reducing tick recruitment rates can help eliminate the disease.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Dynamical Systems·DateApr 20, 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.

Bergamotene -- alluring and lethal for Manduca sexta

A gene in wild tobacco regulates the production of bergamotene, which increases pollination success and protects against herbivory. The compound is emitted at night to attract nocturnal pollinators, such as Manduca sexta moths.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 20, 2017

Changing the game

A new architecture for 3D stacked memory increases rendering speeds by up to 65% by processing data in memory, reducing traffic between GPU cores. This innovation benefits both science, particularly complex modeling and virtual reality, and the gaming industry.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateApr 20, 2017

Supplement can lessen kidney damage linked to genetic mutations in transgenic fruit flies

A novel dietary supplement has been shown to reverse cellular damage caused by specific genetic mutations in the kidneys of transgenic fruit flies. The study provides a personalized model for testing novel therapies for rare diseases such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), which currently lack treatment options.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 20, 2017

New data unearths pesticide peril in beehives

A study by Cornell University found that pesticides pose a significant risk to honeybees, with over 60% of found pesticides attributed to non-sprayed orchards and surrounding farmland. The research analyzed the bees' food stores and revealed high levels of pesticide exposure in 17% of colonies.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 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.

Plant's parent genes cooperate in shaping their child

Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered how plant parent genes cooperate to develop their offspring. The study shows that maternal and paternal factors work together to control the asymmetric division of the zygote, leading to the formation of roots or leaves.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 20, 2017

Study shows hearing tests miss common form of hearing loss

Research shows complex partnership between ear and brain can compensate for significant inner ear damage, leading to normal audiogram but difficulty hearing in certain situations. The study highlights the need for more challenging behavioral tests to diagnose patients with 'hidden hearing loss'.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateApr 20, 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.

Higher temperatures drive multi-generational genetic changes in roundworms

Exposure to high temperatures in Caenorhabditis elegans can lead to genetic changes that persist through both sperm and egg, affecting up to 14 generations. These changes are driven by a temperature-induced reduction in an enzyme, resulting in gene expression alterations that 'remember' the environmental stress.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Scientists uncover mechanism allowing bacteria to survive the human immune system

Researchers have identified the structure of NsrR, a bacterial protein that binds to DNA and plays a key role in resisting nitric oxide, a toxic byproduct of the human immune response. The study provides new insights into how bacteria counteract NO and highlights the importance of understanding this complex process.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 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.

A good night's sleep

Researchers designed a new technology that uses machine learning to model personal sleep patterns based on recorded sounds made during sleep. This method allows doctors to diagnose patients under normal sleeping conditions, leading to better treatment outcomes.

SourceOsaka University·DateApr 20, 2017

Medical history reveals multiple sclerosis begins to impact patients sooner

A new study reveals that people with multiple sclerosis can show signs of the disease five years before its official diagnosis. Researchers analyzed health records from 14,000 patients with MS and found that they were more likely to visit their physicians and fill prescriptions earlier than others.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 20, 2017

New behavioral intervention targets Latino men at high risk of HIV infection

A new behavioral intervention program called HOLA en Grupos has been shown to increase condom use and HIV testing among Latino MSM, reducing the risk of infection. The program achieved a 100% retention rate and significant increases in knowledge and skills, providing a promising solution for addressing this growing public health concern.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 20, 2017
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.

Super-resolution microscopy of hydrogels

Hydrogels, jelly-like materials with water-based properties, require a better understanding of their structure and mechanical properties. Professor Ullal will use super-resolution microscopy techniques to characterize the structure of hydrogels and develop new materials.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateApr 20, 2017

New research unlocks forests' potential in climate change mitigation

Scientists have created a global map measuring the cooling effect of forests by regulating water and energy exchange between the Earth's surface and atmosphere. This new statistical model allows communities to pinpoint ideal locations for forest protection or reforestation efforts.

SourceClemson University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 20, 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.

Macrophages shown to be essential to a healthy heart rhythm

A recent study has discovered that macrophages are essential for the normal functioning of the heart, helping conduct electric signals that coordinate heartbeat. The findings suggest that changes in macrophage numbers or properties may contribute to heart rhythm abnormalities.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2017

Want to stay mentally healthy in older age? Stimulate your brain in early life

A new study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that stimulating the brain through leadership roles at work or staying in education can help people stay mentally healthy in later life. Engaging in activities that challenge the brain and build cognitive reserve can make it more resilient to illnesses such as dementia.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 20, 2017

Mindfulness class helped women, but not men, overcome 'negative affect'

A recent study found that a mindfulness course significantly helped women overcome negative affect, while its effects on men were negligible. The study, led by Brown University researchers, suggests that mindfulness may be more effective for women due to their tendency to ruminate and process emotions differently than men.

SourceBrown University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 20, 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.

Antarctica's biodiversity is under threat

A new study finds that Antarctica's biodiversity is lagging behind the rest of the world in protected area management and bioprospecting regulation. The region faces threats from warming oceans, melting ice cover, and transnational pollution, despite some successes in invasive species management.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 20, 2017

On the brink of eradication: Why polio research matters

Researchers like Dr. Julie Pfeiffer are studying poliovirus, a highly infectious childhood disease now close to global eradication, to gain insights into other viruses like Ebola, Zika, and influenza. This basic research can lead to new treatments and vaccines for these viruses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 20, 2017

Recognizing foreign accents helps brains process accented speech

Researchers found that increased familiarity with a foreign accent leads to better sentence processing and trains the acoustic system to process accented speech. Listeners who correctly identified the accent responded similarly to grammar and vocabulary errors in both native and foreign-accented sentences.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Neurolinguistics·DateApr 20, 2017

Preliminary study suggests possible new treatment for MS

A preliminary study suggests that removing Epstein-Barr virus-infected B cells and boosting the immune system may improve symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Three participants showed significant improvements, including one person with secondary progressive MS who was able to walk without assistance for the first time in 20 years.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 20, 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.

New quantum liquid crystals may play role in future of computers

Physicists at Caltech have detected a new state of matter, a three-dimensional quantum liquid crystal, which could play a role in ultrafast quantum computers. This discovery may lead to the creation of topological superconductors, addressing challenges in building quantum computers.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Naked mole-rats turn into plants when oxygen is low

Naked mole-rats can survive for at least five hours without oxygen by metabolizing fructose, reducing their movement and slowing their pulse rate. This unique adaptation may lead to new treatments for patients suffering from low oxygen conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

A promising target for kidney fibrosis

A new study published in JCI Insights reveals that increasing SMOC2 levels in the kidney can initiate and continue kidney fibrosis, while reducing SMOC2 levels prevents it. Detecting SMOC2 in urine may help diagnose fibrosis, making it a potential biomarker for early intervention.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 20, 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.

Seeing quadruple: Four images of the same supernova, a rare find

Astronomers detected four images of the same supernova, a rare find, due to precise alignment with a foreground galaxy. This extreme case of gravitational lensing offers opportunities to study Type Ia supernovae and their role in cosmology.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Research uncovers life-saving benefits in the battle against viruses

A University of Surrey-led study has developed a model to provide vital insight into controlling CMV infection, particularly in transplant patients and HIV/AIDS sufferers. The research identified four unique patterns of response and created a sophisticated mathematical model to predict therapy duration needed for viral clearance.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 20, 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.

3-D printing helps treat woman with spinal condition

Researchers used 3D printing to create a model of a patient's lower spine, allowing for successful insertion of a catheter for spinal cord stimulation. The technique may provide additional information to improve access in cases where standard approaches prove difficult.

SourceWiley·JournalNeuromodulation Technology at the Neural Interface·DateApr 20, 2017

Rising water temperatures endanger health of coastal ecosystems, study finds

A new study from the University of Georgia finds that increasing water temperatures are responsible for the accumulation of nitrite in marine environments, disrupting ocean food webs. Nitrite can alter single-celled plants, affecting animals that feed on them, and lead to toxic algal blooms.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2017

Environmental 'memories' passed on for 14 generations

Scientists discovered that environmental changes can be passed on in the genes of tiny nematode worms for at least 14 generations. This phenomenon was observed in worms carrying a transgene array, which showed increased activity after exposure to warmer temperatures.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2017

Study shows rapid growth in neuroscience research

A study of neuroscience papers from 2006-2015 reveals the most productive journals and contributing countries. Psychology and behavioral sciences have become popular research areas, while China's involvement has increased significantly, jumping from 11th to 2nd place in 2015.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateApr 20, 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.

'Genetic scalpel' can manipulate the microbiome, Yale study shows

Yale researchers have developed a 'genetic scalpel' to regulate gene activity in the gut microbiome, enabling precise control over bacterial communities. This breakthrough tool may help understand the microbiome's impact on health and disease, including infectious diseases and behavioral disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2017

Application of statistical method shows promise mitigating climate change effects on pine

A new statistical model has been developed to help guide forest management decisions under climate change. The model uses future climate scenarios to produce more accurate predictions than previous methods, allowing for the design of strategies that mitigate climate change impacts on loblolly pine plantations.

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·JournalJournal of the American Statistical Association·DateApr 20, 2017

Mass. General researchers provide evidence linking 'leaky gut' to chronic inflammation

Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital have established a direct link between increased intestinal permeability and chronic inflammatory diseases. The study provides evidence that zonulin-dependent modulation of small-intestinal permeability enhances antigen trafficking, leading to the development of an inflammatory disease.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 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.