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Science News Archive December 2017 - Page 11


Page 11 of 33

Behavioral intervention improves sleep for hospitalized pregnant women

A hospital-based behavioral intervention protocol, including sleep hygiene and cognitive behavioral therapy, improved sleep in women hospitalized for a high-risk pregnancy. Women in the intervention group had significantly lower sleep disturbance scores and fewer symptoms that can interfere with sleep compared to controls.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateDec 18, 2017

Heat from below Pacific Ocean fuels Yellowstone, study finds

A new study suggests that heat from a deep-seated oceanic mantle source, rather than a traditional mantle plume, drives crustal melting and surface volcanism in the western US. The research uses seismic tomography to peer into the subsurface and develop a hybrid geodynamic model that better matches observed geologic histories.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 18, 2017

New grants bolster CSU expertise in wildfire smoke impacts

Colorado State University researchers are expanding their study of wildfire smoke impacts thanks to new grants. The awards will fund research into modeling how aerosols from fires travel and react in the air, building on previously collected data from the Fire Influence on Regional and Global Environments Experiment (FIREX).

SourceColorado State University·DateDec 18, 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.

Routines, practice and mental rehearsal mitigate some risks of armed self-defense

Researchers identified three types of risk-mitigation strategies: readiness practices (routines), simulated scenario practices (target shooting and training), and mentally-rehearsed scenarios. These efforts decrease some risk but cannot fully prepare individuals for actual self-defense situations, which can pose unexpected risks.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateDec 18, 2017

Unleashing ultraviolet brings visible improvement

Researchers at KAUST have demonstrated rapid data transfer using ultraviolet-B light, overcoming interference issues with visible light and improving beam alignment challenges. The system achieved a record-breaking transmission rate of 71 megabits per second.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalOptics Express·DateDec 18, 2017

Reproducing higher-order embryonic kidney structures using pluripotent stem cells

A Japanese research group develops a method to induce ureteric buds from pluripotent stem cells and successfully reproduces the higher-order structure of the kidney. This achievement is a significant step towards regenerating functional kidneys, which could potentially treat millions of patients with chronic kidney disease.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 18, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A radical approach to methane oxidation into methanol

Researchers at Osaka University have created a radical reaction that converts methane into methanol and formic acid using a clean, low-temperature process. The process achieves this goal without the need for high temperatures or pressures, converting over 99% of methane into the target products.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 18, 2017

Ancient fossil microorganisms indicate that life in the universe is common

Scientists from UCLA and University of Wisconsin-Madison analyze ancient fossils, discovering primitive photosynthesizers, methane producers, and consumers. The findings suggest that life in the universe is widespread and not difficult to form.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Illuminated: The mechanism behind shear thinning in supercooled liquids

Two researchers at The University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science have revealed new insights into the behavior of supercooled liquids when they are made to flow by shearing. They found that the two-body structural entropy is the key quantity to understanding shear thinning, which is an industrially very important process.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.

Shedding light on a shadowy organizational hub in cells

A large, enigmatic protein called AKAP350 plays a crucial role in assembling microtubules, which are essential for cell division and cargo transport. Researchers have gained new insights into its function, which may lead to improved anti-cancer therapies.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2017

Oldest fossils ever found show life on Earth began before 3.5 billion years ago

The discovery of microscopic fossils in a 3.5-billion-year-old rock piece in Western Australia confirms life on Earth began before this date. The study identified 11 microbial specimens from five separate taxa, linking their morphologies to chemical signatures characteristic of life.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

New data shows junk food, energy drinks may pose unique risks for teens

A new special issue of Birth Defects Research: The Teenage Brain examines the potential risks of junk food and energy drinks on teen brain development. Research suggests that high consumption of these substances may negatively affect decision-making, reward-seeking behavior, and eating habits throughout adulthood.

SourceTeratology Society·JournalBirth Defects Research·DateDec 18, 2017

Mapping the global impact of shrinking glaciers on river invertebrates

Researchers mapped the global impact of shrinking glaciers on river invertebrates, revealing a consistently patterned response across diverse regions. The study highlights the potential to track environmental impacts on invertebrate groups using trait-based approaches.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 18, 2017

Radiosurgery or whole-brain radiation in patients with multiple brain metastases?

Researchers have discovered that radiosurgery can be an effective treatment option for patients with four or more brain lesions, even when the number of deposits exceeds the traditional three-lesion threshold. The study found no significant difference in survival rates between patients treated with radiosurgery for 4-10 metastases and ...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateDec 18, 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.

Restoring aging genes in rats

Researchers found that overexpressing FKBP1b restored gene expression in hippocampal neurons, improving water maze performance and reversing age-related memory impairments in rats. The study suggests addressing FKBP1b deficiency may be a new avenue for countering age-related memory loss.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateDec 18, 2017

Simple tool may expedite transplants in kids with kidney failure

A new tool predicts the likelihood of a child progressing to kidney failure with high accuracy, enabling better planning for transplant. The tool could reduce the need for interim dialysis and increase transplantation rates in children with kidney disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 18, 2017

Understanding enzyme cascades key to understanding metabolism

Scientists used fluorescent tagging to track movement of two enzymes in glycolytic pathway, revealing that aldolase chemotaxed up the reactant gradient produced by the functioning of the first three enzymes. This suggests a possible role for chemotaxis in enzyme cluster assembly, such as metabolons.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2017

The body's street sweepers

A new study reveals that platelets actively migrate to sites of infection, collecting bacteria into aggregates and facilitating the activation of neutrophils. This active function has significant implications for our understanding of immune defense and potential therapeutic targets for inflammation reactions.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell·DateDec 18, 2017

Plain cigarette packaging may reduce incorrect impression of product's safety

A study published in BMJ Tobacco Control found that plain cigarette packaging can reduce consumers' misconceptions about the safety of certain brands. In an online survey, participants rated Natural American Spirit packaging as safer when viewed with a plain container or graphic warning image compared to current US packaging.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateDec 18, 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.

Breakthrough study reveals new insight into 'immortal' plant cells

A recent study by the John Innes Centre team has discovered an undiscovered reprogramming mechanism in plant germ cells, allowing them to maintain fitness over multiple generations. This finding sheds light on the importance of DNA methylation reprogramming in plants and its potential applications for crop improvement.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 18, 2017

Orbital mayhem around a red dwarf

Researchers at UNIGE detected an exoplanet with a highly inclined orbit around a red dwarf star, evading circular motion and instead following a polar path. This unusual behavior is attributed to the presence of an unknown companion planet that disturbs its path.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2017

China's scholastic success could begin with storybooks, research suggests

Research suggests that Chinese storybooks stress purpose, respect for others, humility, and enduring hardship, which aligns with the lessons taught in Chinese schools. In contrast, US storybooks emphasize happiness, self-esteem, and overcoming obstacles, which may not contribute to scholastic success.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Cross-Cultural Psychology·DateDec 18, 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.

Carnegie Mellon reveals inner workings of victorious AI

Libratus AI uses a three-pronged approach to master no-limit Texas Hold'em, breaking the game into computationally manageable parts and adjusting its strategy based on opponents' gameplay. The AI beat top pros in 20 days of competition, amassing over $1.8 million in chips.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalScience·DateDec 17, 2017

KFU astronomer contributed to blazar research

Researchers at Kazan Federal University studied blazar CTA 102 and found a twisted inhomogeneous jet changing its orientation and rotation. This discovery helps explain long-term trends in spectral variability and brightness.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalNature·DateDec 17, 2017

What does hair loss have to teach us about cancer metastasis?

Researchers at MUSC identified a mechanism that regulates signaling events leading to cell migration and metastasis. The study found that ceramide synthase 4 (CerS4) affects cell migration by disrupting the ability of cells to form focal points in primary cilia.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalScience Signaling·DateDec 15, 2017

Scientific achievements during the operation of Lomonosov satellite

The Lomonosov satellite detected air showers caused by high-energy space rays and registered transient light phenomena associated with storm ares. The satellite also observed gamma-ray bursts for the first time in history, allowing for simultaneous measurements in optic and gamma ranges.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalSpace Science Reviews·DateDec 15, 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.

Columbia engineers develop floating solar fuels rig for seawater electrolysis

Researchers have developed a novel photovoltaic-powered electrolysis device that can operate as a stand-alone platform on open water, producing hydrogen fuel from sunlight and water. The device separates gases using buoyancy-driven product separation, resulting in high product purity without actively pumping the electrolyte.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateDec 15, 2017

Russian scientists developed a new technology of energy generation from bituminous coal

Researchers have created an electrochemical generator that converts bituminous coal into electrical energy, producing only water and heat as byproducts. The technology has been proven effective in joint generation of electrical and heat energy, with the added benefit of a simpler configuration compared to existing coal power plants.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateDec 15, 2017

Innovation Accelerator program announces support for 4 projects improving health care

The Innovation Accelerator program has announced funding for four new projects aimed at addressing disparities in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. The projects focus on improving symptom management for heart failure patients, reimagining primary care doctor visits and payment models with telemedicine, and developing a multidis...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateDec 15, 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.

Dementia with Lewy bodies: Unique genetic profile identified

A large-scale genetic study has clarified the distinctive genetic signature of Dementia with Lewy bodies, a common type of dementia. The research found that DLB accounts for 10-15% of dementia cases, but its genetic profile is unique compared to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateDec 15, 2017

KAIST team develops technology to find optimum drug target for cancer

A KAIST research team developed technology to identify the optimal drug target for cancer cells based on molecular network dynamics. This approach uses systems biology to analyze genetic mutations and predict drug response, which could lead to more effective treatment strategies.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2017

Genetic instructions from mom set the pattern for embryonic development

A recent study published in eLife found that a maternally inherited gene is essential for proper zebrafish embryonic development, and its absence leads to fatal defects. The research reveals the critical role of this gene in regulating cell signaling pathways, including Nodal signaling, which plays a key role in left-right patterning.

SourcePrinceton University·DateDec 15, 2017

Nanodiscs catch misfolding proteins red-handed

Misfolding proteins accumulate in the pancreas, killing cells. Researchers use nanodiscs to study these proteins at the atomic level, gaining insights into their toxicity. This work may lead to the development of new drugs targeting incorrectly folding proteins.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateDec 15, 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.

Erectile dysfunction is red flag for silent early cardiovascular disease

A new study reveals a significant association between erectile dysfunction and impaired endothelial function, as well as increased carotid intimal medial thickness, indicating an early manifestation of atherosclerosis. The findings support a more aggressive CV disease risk assessment and management for persons with erectile dysfunction.

SourceSAGE·JournalVascular Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Autism in Adulthood, a new peer-reviewed journal launching in 2019

The new journal will publish evidence-based original articles, review articles, and analysis on various aspects of adult autism, including physical and mental health, research methodology, and policy change. The journal aims to provide authoritative insights and promote practice, systems, and policy changes for adults with ASD.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAutism in Adulthood·DateDec 15, 2017

Scientists describe the structure of a prospective luminesce substance

Researchers describe a new, rare earth metal hydroxide compound with unique phosphor properties, potentially replacing traditional methods and reducing toxic emissions. The discovery has far-reaching implications for industrial applications and sustainable technology.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateDec 15, 2017

How much soil goes down the drain -- New data on soil lost due to water

According to a new study, global soil loss has increased by 35.9 billion tonnes between 2001 and 2012, with moderate to high erosion impacting about 9.3% of Earth's land surface. Conservation agriculture can save over a billion tonnes of soil per year if implemented correctly.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2017

Stuttering: Stop signals in the brain prevent fluent speech

A hyperactive network in the right frontal part of the brain plays a crucial role in stuttering by inhibiting speech movement planning and execution. The more severe the stuttering, the stronger the connections between brain regions involved in neural inhibition of speech movements.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBrain·DateDec 15, 2017
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.

Indonesian island found to be unusually rich in cave paintings

Researchers uncovered 28 rock art sites on the island of Kisar, measuring just 81 square kilometers, with images depicting boats, dogs, horses, people holding shields, and playing drums. The discovery suggests a stronger shared history between Kisar and neighboring Timor.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalCambridge Archaeological Journal·DateDec 15, 2017

Arctic sea ice affects and is affected by mid-latitude weather

Researchers use large ensemble of model simulations to examine lead-lag relationships between Arctic sea ice and atmospheric circulation. They find evidence that sea ice change is both a driver of and a response to atmospheric variability.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 15, 2017

A chip for environmental and health monitoring

Researchers are developing miniaturized sensor systems that can be produced on an industrial scale to monitor NO2 levels in metropolitan areas and detect cancers. The project combines different sensor components to analyze complex gas mixtures and fine-tunes the functionality of materials used.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateDec 15, 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.

Single-photon detector can count to 4

Engineers at Duke University have successfully counted the presence of at least four photons at a time using a widely used method of detecting single photons, providing easier paths to developing quantum-based technologies. The discovery will unlock new capabilities in physics labs working in quantum information science around the world.

SourceDuke University·JournalOptica·DateDec 15, 2017

Graphene in zero G promises success in space

The Graphene Flagship has successfully tested graphene for two space-related applications: loop heat pipes and solar sails. The experiments, conducted in microgravity, showed excellent thermal properties and radiation pressure behavior, paving the way for a commercial product.

SourceGraphene Flagship·DateDec 15, 2017

Complex, old-growth forests may protect some bird species in a warming climate

Researchers found that old-growth forests with diverse tree sizes and species can buffer the effects of warming temperatures on birds. The study suggests that large trees function as heat sinks during warm periods and multiple canopy layers provide climate buffering effects, supporting stable populations of some bird species.

SourceOregon State University·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateDec 15, 2017

Scientists win a gold metal for liquid behavior

Researchers at University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science report the first direct observation of gold ions moving in liquid using ADF-STEM. The study reveals heterogeneous dynamics and trapped gold ions in small spaces, which could improve battery performance and energy efficiency.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 15, 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.

Getting under graphite's skin:

Scientists have discovered a new process to layer metals under graphite, leading to unique mesas with potential applications in quantum computing and sensing. The formation of these structures could enable controlled magnetic and electronic properties.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalCarbon·DateDec 15, 2017