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Science News Archive August 2017 - Page 16


Page 16 of 41

Shocking gaps in basic knowledge of deep sea life

Scientists warn of alarming gaps in basic knowledge of deep sea life as human activities intensify. Despite this, recent technological advancements enable the collection of genetic information about populations, shedding light on their interconnectedness.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateAug 21, 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.

Penn biologists show how plants turn off genes they don't need

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a mechanism for regulating gene activity in plants by identifying small DNA sequences called Polycomb response elements (PREs) that direct the silencing of genes. These PREs can be manipulated using gene-editing techniques to alter gene expression without adding foreign gene...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 21, 2017

Formation of volatile-rich lunar surface

Researchers analyzed zinc, chlorine, and lead in 'Rusty Rock' to find volatile elements condensed during the moon's early formation. The findings suggest a depleted lunar interior with reduced volatile compounds, including water.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Nanotechnology moves from the clean room to the classroom

High school students can now explore nanoscience with the help of Argonne National Laboratory's Center for Nanoscale Materials and industry partner United Scientific Supplies, Inc. Students can grow copper wires at the nano-scale and micro-scale using technology developed by the Center.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateAug 21, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

McLean researchers uncover security issues with health apps for dementia patients

A recent study by McLean Hospital researchers highlights the need for better security and privacy measures in health apps designed for dementia patients. The paper found that many apps collect user-generated content without adequate protection, posing a risk to patients' sensitive information. Clinicians are urged to educate themselves...

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateAug 21, 2017

Link between cells associated with aging and bone loss

Researchers discovered a causal link between senescent cells and age-related bone loss in mice. Targeting these cells increased bone mass and strength. The study's findings suggest that senolytic drugs may have widespread application in treating multiple chronic diseases, including osteoporosis.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

A holodeck for flies, fish and mice

Researchers develop a virtual reality system that decouples movement from perception in animals, allowing for the study of spatial cognition. The system is used to test various behaviors, including navigation, fear response and collective behavior.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 21, 2017

Using machine learning to improve patient care

Researchers developed a machine-learning approach called ICU Intervene that takes large amounts of ICU data to determine treatments for different symptoms. The system uses deep learning to make real-time predictions, learning from past cases to suggest critical care interventions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateAug 21, 2017

Urban infrastructure, hydrology, and biodiversity

A study models urban impacts on river and stream ecosystems, finding that hard infrastructure affects over 1,200 species nationwide and contributes to 260 local extinctions. Cities can improve environmental quality through infrastructure policies beyond their boundaries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Targeted habitat restoration and biodiversity loss

Restoring links between large adjoining habitat fragments can reduce species extinctions and provide a large potential return on investment in biodiversity. By targeting these areas, researchers found that habitat restoration could decrease the duration between habitat loss and extinction of tropical bird species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Sopping up sunblock from oceans to save coral reefs (video)

Scientists have created magnetic nanobiocomposite beads that can effectively remove oxybenzone, a coral killer found in sunblock, from seawater. The beads, made from environmentally friendly materials, can capture high concentrations of oxybenzone and have shown promising results in laboratory tests.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2017

Evolutionary arms 'chase'

A recent study challenged the conventional view of coevolution between plants and herbivores, suggesting that plants' defensive traits, rather than their genetic relationships, are key factors in determining which species herbivores target. This new paradigm proposes that herbivores may 'chase' or switch hosts based on the plant's defe...

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Into the wild for plant genetics

Researchers at Royal Botanic Gardens Kew detail for the first time the opportunities for plant sciences with portable real-time DNA sequencing. By sequencing random pieces of the genome in the field, accurate species identification is possible within a few hours of collecting a specimen.

SourceRoyal Botanic Gardens Kew·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 21, 2017
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.

When fish swim in the holodeck

Scientists have developed a system called FreemoVR, which immerses freely-moving animals in a reactive, three-dimensional world controlled by a computer. This allows researchers to study complex interactions of neurons in different brain regions while maintaining natural sensory input and feedback.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 21, 2017

CRC screening with flexible sigmoidoscopy reduces risk for death

A re-analysis of USPSTF evidence suggests flexible sigmoidoscopy may reduce all-cause mortality, contrary to previous guidelines. Researchers found that looking at cohorts as separate trials, rather than aggregating them, strengthened the evidence supporting screening with flexible sigmoidoscopy.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

Our hairy insides

Researchers found that angled hairs can affect fluid flow, slowing it down like a grate. This discovery may help illuminate the role of hairy surfaces in the body and enable the design of new microfluidic devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 21, 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.

What hours are worked by women, men in dual-physician couples with kids?

A study of dual-physician couples found that women with children worked significantly fewer hours than those without children. Men in these couples did not exhibit the same reduction in work hours as their female partners. The authors suggest societal expectations and specialty factors may contribute to these findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

Genetic variant tied to risk of typhoid fever

A study identified a genetic risk factor for typhoid fever that targets bacterial virulence and cholesterol metabolism. The VAC14 gene variant reduces the ability of Salmonella Typhi to invade human cells, suggesting a potential preventive approach with cholesterol-lowering drugs.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

NASA sees major Hurricane Kenneth in Eastern Pacific

Hurricane Kenneth, a category 4 storm, has strengthened significantly in the Eastern Pacific, with maximum sustained winds reaching 130mph. The National Hurricane Center forecasts a turn toward the northwest, then north-northwest over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 21, 2017

How a non-coding RNA encourages cancer growth and metastasis

A non-coding RNA, PNUTS lncRNA, encourages cancer growth and metastasis by soaking up microRNA-205 that prevents epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. In breast and lung cancer cell lines, PNUTS lncRNA promotes tumor development.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateAug 21, 2017

Clay-based antimicrobial packaging keeps food fresh

Researchers create a packaging film coated with clay nanotubes and antibacterial essential oil to prevent microbial growth and over-ripening. The new technology shows promise in preserving fruits, vegetables, and meats, reducing food waste and economic losses.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 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.

Comparison of screening recommendations indicates annual mammography

A new study found that annual screening starting at age 40 reduces breast cancer-specific deaths by nearly 40%, compared to 23-31% reductions with other recommendations. The findings suggest that women starting annual mammography at age 40 may benefit from a significant reduction in breast cancer-related deaths.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateAug 21, 2017

Personifying places can boost travel intentions

A QUT study found that writing about a destination as if it were human can boost its appeal as a travel destination. Participants who saw a personified advertisement for Paris or Rome reported higher levels of positive emotions and had a more favorable view of the city.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalTourism Management·DateAug 21, 2017

Understanding brittle crack behaviors to design stronger materials

A team of researchers from Northeastern University has discovered a new mechanism that causes cracks to behave strangely in brittle materials, leading to catastrophic failure. The study's findings have the potential to help designers create stronger materials by understanding how fragile materials like glass and bone break.

SourceNortheastern University College of Science·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 21, 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.

Science literacy and polarization

Respondents showed stronger correlations between scientific beliefs and political/religious identity for topics like human evolution and stem cell research. However, this correlation weakened for non-polarized topics such as nanotechnology.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Gut microbes may talk to the brain through cortisol

Researchers found that certain gut bacteria, such as Bacteroides and Clostridium, can predict brain metabolites like serotonin and myo-inositol, which are altered in individuals with autism. The study suggests a potential mechanism by which the gut microbiome communicates with the brain through cortisol.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGut Microbes·DateAug 21, 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.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs may fight infectious disease

Duke scientists discovered a gene variant linked to susceptibility to typhoid fever and found that cholesterol-lowering drug ezetimibe protected zebrafish against Salmonella Typhi. The study provides insight into human susceptibility to infectious disease and potential avenues for protection.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Before the flood: What drives preparedness?

A new study across Austria, England, and Romania finds that both public and private schemes can improve risk reduction behaviors and reduce losses in future disasters. The study suggests that insurers and governments need to better coordinate their efforts to design efficient, socially just, and politically feasible solutions.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateAug 21, 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.

Have flowers devised the ultimate weapon of distraction?

Researchers found that nectar attracts herbivores like sawflies, which eat petals and nectaries, away from critical flower parts. This 'decoy' strategy allows flowers to protect their reproductive tissues, enhancing pollination success.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 21, 2017

New meta-analysis shows peer influence doubles smoking risk for adolescents

A new meta-analysis finds that having friends who smoke doubles the risk of adolescents starting and continuing to smoke. The study also reveals that peer influence is stronger in collectivist cultures, where adolescents are 4.3 times more likely to pick up smoking if their peers smoke.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateAug 21, 2017

Researchers produce new map of seismic hazards

Researchers have created a new national map of seismic hazards for Brazil, highlighting regions prone to tremors. The survey found that the Northeast, Mato Grosso, and Pantanal biome are at higher risk, with low-intensity tremors capable of causing significant damage.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 21, 2017

Harvard-Osher integrative medicine's mind-body partnership with JACM

The Harvard-Osher Center for Integrative Medicine has partnered with The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (JACM) to showcase cutting-edge mind-body research. Recent studies explored the impact on telomere length, group-based clinical interventions, and electronic apps for veterans' mental health.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateAug 21, 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.

Researchers identify key compounds to resolve abnormal vascular growth in AMD

A new study published in PNAS identifies two key compounds that can reduce the severity of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by regulating inflammatory immune cells. The findings have significant therapeutic implications for AMD and other conditions involving angiogenesis and inflammation.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Research reveals 'exquisite selectivity' of neuronal wiring in the cerebral cortex

A recent study by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory reveals the intricate interactions between chandelier cells and pyramidal neurons in the cerebral cortex. The research shows that these inhibitory cells can receive information from hundreds of excitatory cells, influencing their firing patterns and local circuit activity.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 21, 2017

Racial stereotypes influence perception of NFL quarterbacks

Recent research by University of Colorado Boulder professor Patrick Ferrucci reveals that racial stereotypes continue to shape public perception of NFL quarterbacks, with black players often being described in terms of physical strength and natural ability. The studies found that social identity theory and implicit racial bias contribu...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalHoward Journal of Communications·DateAug 21, 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.

A tougher tooth

UCSB researchers developed a new type of dental composite inspired by mussel mechanisms to adhere to surfaces. The material provides an extra layer of durability, potentially leading to longer-lasting fillings and crowns.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 21, 2017

'Lost city' used 500 years of soil erosion to benefit crop farming

Researchers at the University of York discovered that ancient Engaruka's irrigation systems and terraces were built to capture eroded sediments, benefiting farming practices for centuries. The study highlights the importance of this method of farming in sub-Saharan Africa and its potential applicability to modern day farming techniques.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalQuaternary Research·DateAug 21, 2017

Virus reprograms ocean plankton

Researchers from the University of Exeter have discovered a virus that can reprogram ocean plankton to absorb certain nutrients, potentially affecting carbon storage in the ocean. The study found that infected phytoplankton cells become more competitive and grow faster before being killed by the virus.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017