Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2017 - Page 29


Page 29 of 37

Scientists created nanopowders for the synthesis of new aluminum alloys

Researchers developed a new technology using nanopowders to modify aluminum alloys, improving operational properties and reducing energy costs. The innovative method has the potential to transform the metallurgy industry, with key customers including major producers of primary aluminum.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalPhysics of the Solid State·DateApr 6, 2017

Are your muscles genetically prepared to run a marathon?

Researchers found that athletes with favorable genetic profiles have lower levels of muscle damage and fatigue during marathons. The study's findings open the door for personalized training based on an individual's genetic makeup.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 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.

Synthetic biologists engineer inflammation-sensing gut bacteria

Researchers at Rice University engineered bacteria capable of sensing colitis in mice, detecting elevated thiosulfate levels and finding a potential biomarker for human colitis. The breakthrough could lead to orally ingestible bacteria for monitoring gut health and disease.

SourceRice University·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateApr 6, 2017

Discovered: Novel group of giant viruses

A new group of giant viruses, dubbed Klosneuviruses, has been discovered with a more complete set of translation machinery genes than any other virus known to date. These viruses are thought to have evolved from smaller viruses and encode proteins involved in protein biosynthesis, expanding our understanding of viral evolution.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2017

What is threshold for lips perceived as artificial, unnatural-appearing?

A new study provides quantitative measurements to help guide clinicians in counseling patients seeking lip augmentation. The research found that there is no single fixed guideline for predicting subjective perception of lips, highlighting the importance of personalized consultation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateApr 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.

Coming to a lab bench near you: Femtosecond X-ray spectroscopy

Researchers capture snapshots of electronic structure during a transient state of a reaction using femtosecond pulses of X-ray light on a tabletop apparatus. The study provides insights into the ring-opening reactions of cyclic molecules, relevant to photobiological synthesis and optoelectronic technologies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2017

Solving medical 'cold cases' through genetics

A team of researchers identified a genetic mutation responsible for an adult's rare and severe immune system disorder. They developed a molecular therapy using Morpholino Antisense Oligonucleotide that corrected the mutation and allowed the patient's immune system to function properly.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 6, 2017

Pet exposure may reduce allergy and obesity

A University of Alberta study found that babies from pet households had higher levels of microbes linked to lower allergy and obesity risks. Exposure to pets in the womb or after birth increased abundance of bacteria Ruminococcus and Oscillospira, which have been linked to reduced childhood allergies and obesity.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalMicrobiome·DateApr 6, 2017

NIH-funded research to explore economic stability's impact on HIV infection

A new research initiative aims to reduce HIV infection and transmission by providing job readiness and employment skills to young men who have sex with men and young transgender women. The project, funded by the NIH, will explore how economic stability can prevent adolescent homelessness, drug use, and migration to high-risk environments.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·DateApr 6, 2017

Unraveling the mystery of snowflakes, from the Alps to Antarctica

Researchers at EPFL's Environmental Remote Sensing Laboratory developed an algorithm to classify six different classes of snowflakes, improving precipitation measurement and forecast accuracy. The study used high-resolution images of snowflakes taken from three angles and analyzed their shape, geometry, and electromagnetic properties.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAtmospheric Measurement Techniques·DateApr 6, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

USDA announces $4.2 million to repay educational loans for veterinarians

The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture is providing $4.2 million to repay veterinary school loans for eligible veterinarians who serve in areas with a shortage of veterinary resources. This assistance aims to retain veterinarians in rural America, where they can provide essential services to farmers and ranchers.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateApr 6, 2017

Feeding fat to fungi: Evidence for lipid transfer in arbuscular mycorrhiza

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can obtain lipids from their host plants, which are essential for their growth and reproduction. This discovery highlights the importance of lipid transfer in these symbiotic relationships, suggesting that AM fungi depend on their hosts for survival and nutrient uptake.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNew Phytologist·DateApr 6, 2017

A viral explanation for celiac disease

Researchers discovered that viral infections can break oral tolerance to dietary antigens, leading to celiac disease. The study highlights the previously unexplored connection between viral infection and immune responses in mice.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2017

New tool illuminates cell signaling pathways key to disease

Researchers have developed a new technique that allows for precise mapping of cellular signaling networks involved in human biology and disease. This breakthrough opens up exciting avenues for understanding and treating psychiatric diseases, including opioid addiction.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateApr 6, 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.

Study identifies 'night owl' gene variant

Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered a genetic mutation in the CRY1 gene that slows the internal biological clock, causing delayed sleep phase disorder. The mutation affects up to 1 in 75 people and can be present in families, with relatives sharing similar signs of persistent sleep problems.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateApr 6, 2017

A NASA infrared look at the Southern Indian Ocean's 15th tropical cyclone

Tropical Cyclone 15S has the capability to produce heavy rainfall due to its extremely low cloud top temperatures, detected by NASA's Aqua satellite. The storm is forecasted to dissipate in three days, but will continue tracking south-southwestward around an elongated area of subtropical high pressure.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 6, 2017

Ingredients for lasting memories

Researchers found evidence of long-lasting engram cells in the frontal part of the brain, which mature as new memories become permanent. These cells were activated naturally only after weeks of conditioning, suggesting a maturation process that requires input from hippocampal engram cells.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2017

Scientists link California droughts and floods to distinctive atmospheric waves

A recent study found that a specific wave pattern in the upper atmosphere, called wavenumber-5, is associated with California's droughts and floods. The wave pattern emerges during the northern winter and can lead to persistent extreme events like heat waves, droughts, and floods. Scientists hope that this new understanding of wavenumb...

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalJournal of Climate·DateApr 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.

Archaeogenetic findings unlock ancestral origins of Sardinians

A recent study has uncovered the ancestral origins of Sardinian populations, revealing a high percentage of unique genetic signatures. The research team analyzed DNA samples from modern Sardinians and ancient skeletal remains, finding that 78.4% of modern mitogenomes cluster into 'Sardinian-specific haplogroups'.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 6, 2017

Hospitals put your data at risk, study finds

A recent study by Michigan State University researchers found nearly 1,800 large data breaches in patient information over a seven-year period. Hospitals were responsible for most of these breaches, which highlights the need for increased data protection in the healthcare industry.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 6, 2017

Irish researchers make major breakthrough in smart printed electronics

Researchers at AMBER Centre have fabricated the first printed transistors consisting entirely of 2-dimensional nanomaterials, opening the path for industry to cheaply print electronic devices. The breakthrough could unlock applications such as smart food packaging and labels, and even window panes displaying weather forecasts.

SourceAMBER Centre·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 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.

Seemingly innocuous virus can trigger celiac disease

A new study links common reovirus infection with the development of celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder caused by an improper immune response to gluten. Reovirus-induced immune responses can lead to the loss of oral tolerance to gluten, setting the stage for celiac disease.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2017

Cancer commandeers immature immune cells to aid its successful spread

Scientists have discovered that cancer can commandeers immature immune cells, called MDSCs, to facilitate its spread. MDSCs are normally part of the immune system's anti-tumor response but, under the influence of tumor-secreted cytokines, they can help tumors grow and metastasize.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 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.

Financial math models may help build a better HIV vaccine

Researchers used financial math models to accurately predict changes in HIV surface proteins over 30 years. By analyzing structural properties and 'volatility,' they can design vaccines that match the virus's evolving targets.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 6, 2017

ASH awards $750,000 to preserve promising biomedical research

The American Society of Hematology has awarded $150,000 in Bridge Grants to five researchers to sustain their hematologic research proposals. The grants will help preserve programs at institutions across the US and encourage the retention of promising researchers in uncertain NIH funding environments.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·DateApr 6, 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.

Rutgers researchers determine structure of tuberculosis drug target

Rutgers scientists determine the structure of tuberculosis drug target Mtb RNA polymerase and discover a new class of compounds, Na-aroyl-N-aryl-phenylalanamides (AAPs), that potently inhibit it. The findings reveal potential for developing improved anti-tuberculosis drugs.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 6, 2017

Attitudes vary across groups regarding meal choice in restaurants

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that there are areas of convergence between parents, children, and restaurant executives regarding healthy meal choices. Common ground includes the importance of taste and familiarity, which can inform efforts to promote healthier options.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateApr 6, 2017

Next Generation TimeTree: An expanded history of life on Earth at your fingertips

The next generation TimeTree web combines molecular sequencing data with geological timelines and environmental information. Users can now explore the history of life on Earth in detail, tracing species evolution through time and comparing divergence times between species.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 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.

Stem cell patch shows early promise in treating heart failure

Researchers used patient's own muscle stem cells to create patches that were surgically glued onto the surface of patients' hearts. One year after treatment, patients showed improvements in exercise capacity and heart function, suggesting this cell patch may be a viable therapy for treating heart failure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 5, 2017

No sugar coating, but sweet nonetheless

A research team from the University of Freiburg has developed a new method to create microprobes that can grow into neural tissue without causing inflammation. These probes can deliver strong signals even after twelve weeks, opening up new possibilities for diagnoses and treatments for conditions like Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalBiomaterials·DateApr 5, 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.

Nearly 1 billion people still smoke daily

The prevalence of daily smoking declined globally between 1990 and 2015, but the number of daily smokers continues to rise year-over-year. Robust tobacco control programs have led to progress in reducing smoking rates, but more efforts are needed to prevent new smokers and encourage quitters.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 5, 2017

Cancer burden for aging US HIV population projected to shift

As the US HIV population ages, cancer incidence rates for AIDS-defining cancers are expected to decline due to effective treatment with modern antiretroviral therapies. However, frequencies of other cancers such as lung and prostate cancer are projected to increase.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·DateApr 5, 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.

Regular exercise, not BMI, before stroke may predict disability later

A new study published in Neurology suggests that regular exercise, not body mass index, predicts a person's level of disability after a stroke. Exercise was defined as vigorous physical activity three times a week or more, and participants who exercised regularly were more likely to be independent before and after stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 5, 2017

'Spiderman' worm-snails discovered on Florida shipwreck

Scientists have discovered a new species of snail that filter-feeds like whales and shoots webs like Spiderman. The 'Spiderman' worm-snails could play a significant role in coral reef restoration efforts, but their presence also poses risks to corals and other reef organisms.

SourceField Museum·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 5, 2017

Simulations of DIII-D experiments shed light on mysterious plasma flows

Researchers at PPPL and General Atomics simulated a self-organized flow of superhot plasma that fuels fusion reactions. The findings show that sufficient heating can drive instabilities leading to plasma rotation, which may be used to improve fusion device performance. High-energy beams traditionally injected into the plasma are replac...

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 5, 2017

Artificial topological matter opens new research directions

Researchers have created a structure that allows tuning of topological properties, enabling the control of current flow and opening up possibilities for circuits based on topological behaviors. The discovery presents a new artificial crystal lattice structure for studying quantum behaviors.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 5, 2017

Probiotics benefit in schizophrenia shaped by yeast infections

Researchers found that Candida yeast infections contribute to bowel difficulties in men with schizophrenia. Probiotics also decreased delusions and hallucinations in participants without a history of yeast infections. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings and determine their effectiveness for women with schizophrenia.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateApr 5, 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.

New technology could offer cheaper, faster food testing

Researchers at MIT have developed a new method for detecting foodborne pathogens like E. coli using specialized droplets that can bind to bacterial proteins, allowing for fast and affordable testing with smartphones.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 5, 2017

Catch shares slow the 'race to fish'

A study by Duke University economists found that catch shares reduce the 'race to fish' that compresses fishing seasons. This allows fishers to time their catches with market demand, reducing occupational hazards and improving fish quality. While exceptions exist, benefits still outweigh negatives.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2017

Researchers develop Marburg virus treatment effective five days after infection

A successful antibody treatment protected nonhuman primates against the deadly Marburg and Ravn viruses even when given five days after becoming infected. Monoclonal antibodies show promise in providing protection during advanced stages of disease with highly dangerous viruses.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 5, 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.