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Science News Archive December 2017 - Page 28


Page 28 of 33

Student-led protests for inclusive campuses are more likely at selective universities

A new study found that student diversity alone is not enough to make a college campus feel inclusive, with institutions prioritizing selectivity and prestige instead. Researchers analyzed 1,845 institutions and found that more selective universities with fewer Pell Grant recipients were more likely to experience student-led activism.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalThe Journal of Higher Education·DateDec 5, 2017

New weakness found in most common childhood malignant brain tumor

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have identified a new weakness in medulloblastoma, the most common form of childhood brain tumour, which could lead to more targeted treatments. The study found that high levels of BMI1 and low levels of CHD7 are associated with poor prognosis in aggressive human medulloblastoma.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 5, 2017

It's good to be rare, for some species

Researchers from UC Davis predict certain traits, such as internal fertilization and long-distance mating signals, can help rare species persist during crises. These traits may provide advantages for chronically rare species when compared to more common species that are likely to face extinction during great extinction events.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEcology Letters·DateDec 5, 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.

Study finds variation within species is a critical aspect of biodiversity

Research reveals that variation within species has significant ecological consequences, often rivaling those of species themselves. The study found that trait differences can affect prey populations and grazing insects, leading to indirect effects on ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 5, 2017

In first, 3-D printed objects connect to WiFi without electronics

Researchers at the University of Washington have created a system that allows 3D-printed plastic objects to wirelessly communicate with other WiFi-connected devices using backscatter techniques. These objects can sense useful data and send information to other smart devices, enabling applications such as automated laundry ordering and ...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateDec 5, 2017

Blood test could help predict skin cancer's return

Researchers found that a blood test for tumour DNA can predict the likelihood of aggressive skin cancer returning, with 33% of patients who tested positive being alive after five years compared to 65% of those who didn't. The study also revealed that patients with faults in genes BRAF and NRAS are more likely to experience a return wit...

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateDec 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Working in the cold

Scientists at Fudan University have designed a high-rate and long-life lithium-ion battery with improved low-temperature performance. The battery system features a cold-enduring hard-carbon anode and a powerful lithium-rich cathode, with the initial lithiation step integrated.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 5, 2017

Archaeologists revise chronology of the last hunter-gatherers in the Near East

A team of archaeologists and scientists revised the chronology of the last hunter-gatherers in the Near East, finding that they could live comfortably in the steppe zone. The Natufian Culture, which existed from 14,500 to 11,500 years ago, was previously thought to be limited to the Mediterranean woodland zone.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Humanities·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 5, 2017

Parenting behaviors linked to suicide among adolescents

A study found that children aged 12-17 are more likely to contemplate, plan, and attempt suicide when parents do not engage in behaviors demonstrating care. Parents can mitigate this risk by expressing pride, helping with homework, and being emotionally engaged.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateDec 5, 2017

Colored sunscreen protects skin from damage caused by visible light

Researchers have discovered that visible light causes damage to skin cells, which is not blocked by conventional sunscreens. A colored sunscreen developed using nanoparticles coated with melanin provides protection against UVA, UVB and visible light.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateDec 5, 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.

Hearing different accents at home impacts language processing in infants

Researchers found that infants raised in homes with multiple accents recognize words differently than those exposed to single accents. The study suggests that children from diverse linguistic environments process language uniquely and highlights the importance of considering accent variation when studying speech development.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2017

Early avian evolution: The Archaeopteryx that wasn't

A reevaluation of the Haarlem specimen reveals it to be a predator anchiornithid rather than Archaeopteryx, shedding new light on the evolutionary transition from reptiles to birds. The fossil's taxonomic analysis suggests that modern birds are direct descendants of carnivorous dinosaurs.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateDec 5, 2017

Augmented-reality technology could help treat 'lazy eye'

A new study suggests that augmented-reality technology can improve ocular balance in individuals with amblyopia, a condition where signals between the brain and one eye go awry. The technology, which delivers altered but complementary video to each eye in real time, forced participants to make use of both eyes cooperatively.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 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.

New tool for the early detection of blue-green algae

Researchers developed a new approach to monitoring algae blooms near lake shores, combining satellite and drone imaging for early detection. The tool offers near-daily updates, fast water quality monitoring, and better chorophyll a distribution maps.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateDec 5, 2017

Conflicting views on social media balanced by an algorithm

Researchers developed an algorithm to balance information exposure on social media, allowing users to see both sides of controversial discussions. The algorithm identifies and selects influential users who can spread balanced viewpoints, helping to break echo chambers.

SourceAalto University·DateDec 5, 2017

Penn researchers link binge eating and weight-loss challenges

A study published in Obesity found that individuals with Type 2 diabetes and obesity who continue to binge eat while trying to lose weight drop significantly less weight than those who don't or stop binge eating. Researchers recommend targeting treatment for this behavior, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalObesity·DateDec 5, 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.

Superior hydrogen catalyst just grows that way

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories and University of California Merced developed a new catalyst that uses molybdenum disulfide to increase surface area and handle higher temperatures than platinum. The innovative design allows for more efficient hydrogen production, reducing the cost of fuel cells.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 5, 2017

NASA telescope studies quirky comet 45P

Researchers measured gas levels in comet 45P, revealing it doesn't match any studied before, with carbon monoxide and methane being detected. The team found a larger-than-average share of frozen methanol, raising questions about its origin.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 5, 2017

'Jumping genes' solve swamp wallaby ancestry

Genetic research reveals swamp wallabies are part of the Macropus genus, which includes grey and red kangaroos. The study found shared retrotransposons with woodland wallabies, indicating a common ancestry around five to seven million years ago.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 5, 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.

Controlling spin for memory storage

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a computational simulation that shows the potential of ultrafast laser pulses to switch electrons' spins in magnetic materials, enabling faster magnetic memory devices. The study suggests perovskite manganites and layered manganites as possible materials for testing their model.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 5, 2017

Polyunsaturated fatty acids linked to reduced allergy risk

High levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and arachidonic acid, are associated with a reduced risk of asthma and rhinitis in children. The study found that children with higher blood levels of these fatty acids at age 8 were less likely to develop the diseases by age 16.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateDec 5, 2017

Combination strategy could hold promise for ovarian cancer

A new treatment approach for ovarian cancer has shown promising results in a mouse model. Combining drugs that reactivate dormant genes with those that activate the immune system led to greater tumor reduction and longer survival rates compared to single-drug treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2017

Two Super-Earths around red dwarf K2-18

Researchers have discovered two super-Earths around the red dwarf star K2-18, one of which could be a scaled-up version of our own planet. The newly found planet, K2-18c, is likely too hot to support life, but its companion, K2-18b, has potential for liquid surface water and might harbor conditions suitable for life.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateDec 5, 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.

Scientists find potential weapons for the battle against antibiotic resistance

Researchers found that certain bacterial strains can produce factors that increase or decrease the susceptibility of another bacterium to antibiotics. The study identified three specific factors: LasA, rhamnolipids, and HQNO, which could be used to create new antibiotics or develop genetic tests to detect antibiotic resistance

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 5, 2017

When contact sports cause concussion injuries, who comes out ahead?

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that female athletes experience a higher concussion injury rate than male athletes. Athletes with a prior concussion injury were three times more likely to suffer another contact sport-related concussion.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateDec 5, 2017

Hearing hybrid and electric vehicles while quieting noise pollution

The European Union is requiring hybrid and pure electric vehicles to be equipped with acoustic vehicle alerting systems, which could lead to increased noise pollution. René Weinandy, head of Noise Abatement in Transport for the German Environment Agency, expressed concerns about the potential harm of these systems.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 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.

Shorter course of treatment may provide better outcome for intermediate-risk prostate cancer

A new study found that a shorter course of radiation therapy using higher doses over fewer days may provide a better outcome for men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 men and showed a significant 13% reduction in the risk of recurrence with hypofractionated radiation therapy (HRT) compared ...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalEuropean Urology Focus·DateDec 5, 2017

Seaweed could hold key to environmentally friendly sunscreen

Scientists at King's College London have discovered a seaweed compound that can protect human skin from UV radiation without harming marine ecosystems. The mycosporine-like amino acid, palythine, has been shown to absorb harmful rays and offer antioxidant protection against cellular damage.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateDec 5, 2017

Engineers 3-D print a 'living tattoo'

MIT engineers have devised a 3D printing technique that uses live bacteria cells to create interactive structures. The team printed a 'living tattoo' with branches that light up in response to different chemical stimuli, demonstrating the potential for wearable sensors and interactive displays.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 5, 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.

Men with HPV are 20 times more likely to be reinfected after one year

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that men infected with one type of HPV are 20 times more likely to be reinfected within a year. Vaccination before sexual contact is crucial in preventing initial infection, while vaccinating previously infected men could also reduce reinfection risk.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2017

New process could be key to understanding complex rearrangements in genome

Researchers at Tufts University have developed a new approach to analyzing complex genomic rearrangements (CGRs), enabling rapid and precise identification of their causes and impact on DNA and cellular formation. This breakthrough could lead to significant advances in diagnosing and treating genetic disorders and certain cancers.

SourceTufts University·JournalGenome Research·DateDec 5, 2017

Lemur study highlights role of diet in shaping gut microbiome

A recent study on lemurs found that a similar diet leads to identical gut microbiomes, highlighting the importance of diet in shaping microbial ecosystems. The researchers also discovered common metabolic pathways between lemurs and humans with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), raising questions about their role in human health.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGut Microbes·DateDec 5, 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.

Researchers connect severity of 'kissing disease' to T-cell population

A study published in mBio reveals a strong connection between the onset and severity of acute infectious mononucleosis (mono or 'kissing disease') and the T-cell population, specifically those that react to both EBV and influenza A virus. Individuals with severe cases of mono have higher levels of cross-reactive T-cells, while those wi...

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateDec 5, 2017

World's heaviest bony fish identified and correctly named

Researchers have clarified the scientific name of the world's heaviest bony fish, identifying it as a 2,300 kilogram Mola alexandrini bump-head sunfish. The species was previously misclassified as Mola mola, but new study reveals its distinct characteristics.

SourceSpringer·JournalIchthyological Research·DateDec 5, 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.

Link found between estrogens and changes in heart physiology

Researchers discovered a novel mechanism of estrogen action on heart physiology, revealing that xenoestrogens can influence cardiac function by regulating thyroid hormone production. This study highlights the potential risks of environmental estrogens on human health.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 5, 2017

NASA gets a final look at Tropical Cyclone Ockhi's rainfall

Tropical Cyclone Ockhi was found to produce very heavy rainfall, with storms northwest of the eye dropping precipitation at rates over 60 mm/hour. The storm's vertical wind shear caused it to weaken, leading to a final landfall near the Gulf of Khambhat on Dec. 6.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 5, 2017

Copper will replace toxic palladium and expensive platinum in the synthesis of medications

Researchers have proven the effectiveness of copper nanoparticles as a catalyst for organic synthesis reactions, which is an ideal alternative to toxic heavy metal catalysts like palladium. The use of copper nanoparticles offers numerous benefits, including lower costs, improved selectivity and yields, and recyclability.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalCoordination Chemistry Reviews·DateDec 5, 2017

US transportation and water infrastructure not broken

A new RAND Corporation study finds that US transportation and water infrastructure funding is not broken, but a national consensus on priorities is needed. Targeted spending increases can largely eliminate maintenance backlogs by 2030, while federal capital funding can include resilience requirements for natural disasters and climate c...

SourceRAND Corporation·DateDec 5, 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.

Stress test: New study finds seals are stressed-out by sharks

Researchers found seals exhibit high stress when great white sharks are present, particularly in areas with no escape routes. Seals show reduced stress at islands with kelp beds and reefs providing safe passage from predators.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalEcology·DateDec 5, 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.

Air pollution cancels positive health effects of exercise in older adults

A new study published in The Lancet found that short-term exposure to air pollution on city streets can cancel out the beneficial health effects of exercise in adults over 60. Researchers recommend stricter air quality limits and better traffic-control measures, as well as increasing access to green spaces for people to exercise.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 5, 2017

Scientists create successful mass production system for bioengineered livers

Scientists have successfully developed a biologically accurate mass-production platform for bioengineering human liver tissues suitable for therapeutic transplant into people. The new process allows researchers to generate single batches of up to 20,000 genetically matched, three-dimensional and highly functional liver micro-buds.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 5, 2017

Hybrid electrolyte enhances supercapacitance in vertical graphene nanosheets

Researchers discovered a hybrid electrolyte that combines aqueous and organic characteristics to increase the performance of vertical graphene nanosheets in supercapacitors. The hybrid electrolyte and potassium hydroxide activation improved nanostructure and charge storage capacity, resulting in fivefold improvements in capacitance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 5, 2017