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Science News Archive August 2017


Page 39 of 41

An end to cavities for people with sensitive teeth?

Researchers develop a new material with nanohydroxyapatite and green tea polyphenol EGCG to combat tooth sensitivity. The material plugged dentin tubules, released EGCG for 96 hours, and prevented biofilm formation, showing low toxicity.

Increasing productivity by one day each month

A recent study shows that corporate wellness programs can significantly increase worker productivity, with participants showing a 6-11% gain in productivity. The program's benefits include improved employee motivation and capabilities due to physical and mental wellness improvements.

Researchers designing an instrument to identify uranium, atoms at a time

A new instrument capable of detecting trace amounts of uranium and other materials will be designed, supported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Nuclear Forensics Research Award program. The instrument will allow for nanoscale imaging of isotopic content in solid samples, with unprecedented sensitivity and spatial resolution.

'Sherlock' and the case of narrative perception

The study found that brain activity in regions called the default mode network represent a kind of higher-level processing, building up representations of what's happening in the world around us. Participants who had previously watched the 'Sherlock' episode could anticipate events and recall them in the same order, suggesting that chu...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Getting therapeutic sound waves through thick skulls

A team of researchers from UCR developed a ceramic skull implant that allows doctors to deliver therapeutic sound waves into the brain. The material, made of Yttria Stabilized Zirconia, is biocompatible and shatter-resistant, making it ideal for implants.

Hubble detects exoplanet with glowing water atmosphere

Scientists have found a stratosphere on an enormous gas giant exoplanet WASP-121b with an atmosphere hot enough to boil iron. The discovery was made using spectroscopy to analyze the planet's brightness at different wavelengths of light, revealing glowing water molecules.

Running out of gas: Gas loss puts brakes on stellar baby boom

The study found that gas-rich galaxies in a cluster are located in the outer part of the cluster. This is the first time such a location differentiation has been observed in a galaxy cluster. The researchers believe that gas loss prevents star formation, leading to a decline in stellar birthrate over time.

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.

A dolphin diet

Marine biologists analyzed three dolphin species' diets, revealing overlap in feeding ecology despite differences in hunting strategies. The research provides valuable insights for conservation and management of dolphin populations worldwide.

Ancient DNA reveals origins of the Minoans and Mycenaeans

The study analyzed genome-wide data from 19 individuals and found that the Minoans descended primarily from Neolithic Western Anatolia and Greece. Modern Greeks are genetically closely related to the Mycenaeans, indicating a large degree of population continuity in Greece.

Cicada wings may inspire new surface technologies

Researchers studied cicada wings to understand their water-repelling ability, discovering that habitat is not a good predictor of superhydrophobicity. The team found that life cycles and species relatedness are better predictors of this extreme water-repelling ability.

What flowers looked like 100 million years ago

A new study reconstructs the evolution of flowers and sheds light on what the earliest flowers might have looked like. The ancestral flower was bisexual, with both female and male parts, and multiple whorls of petal-like organs. This new model offers a plausible scenario to explain the spectacular diversity of floral forms.

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.

Update on the Larsen-C iceberg breakaway

The largest remaining ice shelf on the Antarctic Peninsula has lost 10% of its area after a giant iceberg four times the size of London broke free. Dr Anna Hogg and Dr Hilmar Gudmundsson tracked the iceberg using satellite technology, revealing that it has started to drift away from the Larsen-C and formed smaller icebergs.

Prescription opioids often go unused after surgery

A study published in JAMA Surgery found that more than two-thirds of patients reported unused prescription opioids after surgery, highlighting an important source for nonmedical use. The study also revealed low rates of safe storage and disposal practices, contributing to opioid-related injuries and deaths.

Scientists deliver knockout blow to multiple cancers

Research funded by Cancer Research UK identified NOX4 as a common mechanism responsible for cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) formation in tumours. Targeting this enzyme could lead to new treatments and improve existing therapies.

Microscopic body snatchers infest our oceans

Research reveals 'bodysnatchers' of the ocean, mixotrophs that enslave prey to acquire photosynthetic capability, have a significant impact on the food-web. These single-celled organisms support fisheries while others can be highly toxic.

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.

Anthrax: A hidden threat to wildlife in the tropics

Researchers discovered anthrax prevalent among Taï National Park's mammal carcasses, killing 31 of 55 chimps. The disease poses a significant threat to endangered species and emphasizes the need for long-term infectious disease studies.

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.

Species richness -- a false friend?

Researchers propose a new approach to evaluating biodiversity, focusing on species migration and abundance within ecosystems. By analyzing these dynamics, experts can better understand ecosystem responses to environmental changes and develop more effective conservation strategies.

Secrets of ancient Irish funeral practices revealed

Researchers analyzed human remains from 40 individuals at a 5000-year-old passage tomb complex, revealing evidence of dismemberment and cremation. The study suggests that the ancient Irish had a complex burial rite involving 'deconstruction' of the body to aid soul transition.

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.

Targeted radiotherapy limits side effects of breast cancer treatment

A new trial has shown that targeted radiotherapy can limit the side effects of breast cancer treatment without compromising its effectiveness. The study found that women who received partial-breast radiotherapy reported fewer long-term changes to their breast appearance and feel, compared to those who underwent whole-breast radiotherapy.

Kids, cash, and snacks: What motivates a healthier food choice?

A new study reveals that brand awareness is not a key factor in purchasing snacks among children, but their experience with money plays a significant role. Higher prices for unhealthy snacks may motivate children who have handled money to choose healthier options.

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.

Magnetized viruses attack harmful bacteria

Researchers at Rice University and the University of Science and Technology of China have developed a combination of antibacterial phages and magnetic nanoparticle clusters that infect and destroy bacteria protected by biofilms in water treatment systems. The innovative material, which uses bacteriophages combined with nanoparticles, c...

WSU researchers develop alternative to wasteful methane flaring

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a small reactor that can inexpensively break down methane into carbon monoxide and hydrogen, producing syngas for use in energy production. This innovation could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and wasted energy from oil drilling operations.

Pennsylvania snowshoe hares differ from those in Yukon

Researchers found that Pennsylvania snowshoe hares have shorter, less-dense winter coats than their northern counterparts, producing lower coat temperatures. They also exhibit altered movement rates and resting-spot selection in response to variable winter temperatures. These adaptations may enable the hares to survive warming winters.

Effects of cognitive behavior therapy on parents of children with autism

A new study from York University reveals that parents who participate in cognitive therapy with their children with autism experience improvements in their own depression, emotion regulation, and mindful parenting. The research shows that co-therapy with parents alongside their child's therapist leads to positive outcomes for the family.

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.

Revealed: brain 'switch' tells body to burn fat after a meal

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a brain mechanism that controls the conversion of white fat into brown fat after eating, which could lead to new obesity treatments. The 'switch' is turned off during fasting and on during feeding, promoting weight gain when the switch remains active.

Characteristics of metabolically unhealthy lean people

Researchers found that low leg fat mass is a crucial factor in lean individuals at increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases, similar to lipodystrophy phenotypes. The study suggests personalized prevention and treatment strategies for metabolically unhealthy lean people.

Are artificial sweeteners counterproductive when dieting?

A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that artificial sweeteners paired with a low-carb diet significantly boost calorie intake. Flies offered these diets showed immediate increases in food consumption, which varied by the amount of sweetener used.

Aye group discovers avenue for precision cancer treatment

A study published in Cell Chemical Biology discovered a novel chemical procedure called T-REX that can selectively target cancer cells with specific mutations, leading to more favorable treatment outcomes. The researchers found that certain enzymes' redox-specific processes could be harnessed for targeted drug design.

Molecule's role in maintaining liver size and function revealed

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have identified a molecule called YAP that determines whether liver cells proliferate or are eliminated, depending on the presence or absence of injury. This balance is crucial for maintaining organ structure and function.

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.

Vorinostat renders dormant HIV infection vulnerable to clearance

Researchers at UNC Health Care have developed an assay to detect antigen production and immune effectors capable of clearing infected cells. Vorinostat reverses latent HIV infection, making it vulnerable to clearance and potentially paving the way for a cure for the millions living with the virus.

ESA, NASA's SOHO reveals rapidly rotating solar core

Scientists have discovered evidence of a type of seismic wave in the Sun using data from NASA's SOHO. The waves, called g-modes, reveal that the solar core is rotating approximately once every week, nearly four times faster than its surface.

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.

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.

Zika infections unlikely to be passed by kissing, casual contact

Research by University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists reveals that Zika virus transmission is unlikely through casual contact like kissing or sharing utensils. The study found that the virus can survive in bodily fluids for extended periods but remains inactive in saliva, which may play a role in preventing infection.

Smart underwear proven to prevent back stress with just a tap

A team of Vanderbilt University engineers has developed smart underwear that can help prevent back pain by offloading stress on the low back muscles. The device features two fabric sections connected by straps and can be controlled via an app or a simple double tap, reducing muscle fatigue by up to 45%.

Brainiacs win big

The UCSB Brain Initiative, a cross-disciplinary program tackling the mind and brain, has received a significant boost from the Hearst Foundation. The award will support the initiative's efforts to transform our understanding of the human brain and provide new tools for neuroengineering.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

$9 million grant will create neurotech research hub at Cornell

The Cornell Neurotechnology NeuroNex Hub will develop new optical imaging tools for noninvasive recording of neural activity in animals, overcoming barriers to deep imaging and whole nervous system visualization. The hub aims to enable biologists to explore complex neuroscience questions, such as animal consciousness.

Technique enables printable and rewritable color images

Scientists at Rice University have created a method for printing and rewriting color images by utilizing structural colors, which are determined by the selective reflections of certain colors at specific angles. The technique uses a single, colorless ink and can generate high-resolution images with excellent durability.

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.

Boat noise disrupts fish cooperation

Research finds that boat noise affects cleaner fish behavior, leading to increased cheating and decreased cleaning efficiency. This study highlights the need to control man-made noise in protected habitats.

Study shows adolescent depression increases risk for violence

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found a consistent pattern of increased risk of later violence among adolescents with depression. The research team identified modest increases in risk of violence in depression, with an odds ratio of two-fold in one sample.