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Science News Archive February 2017


Page 8 of 37

PI3K/mTOR inhibitors may be effective against some uterine sarcomas

Researchers found that the activated S6 ribosomal protein P-S6S240 was present in 32% of high-grade tumors and associated with shorter progression-free survival. PI3K/mTOR inhibitors showed promising results in two patient-derived xenograft models, suggesting a potential treatment option for patients with this type of uterine sarcoma.

Long-term stress linked to higher levels of obesity

Research by UCL scientists found a strong association between long-term stress and obesity, with people experiencing chronically elevated cortisol levels being more prone to weight gain and persistent overweight status.

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.

USDA invests $4.8 million in university agricultural programs

The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has awarded grants totaling $4,790,100 to non-land-grant universities for agricultural science programs. These grants will support education, research, and outreach activities in agriculture, renewable resources, and related disciplines.

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.

New study to document Alzheimer's disease risk factors in Latinos

A new study called Latino Core aims to learn about the aging process and risk factors for Alzheimer's disease in older Latino adults. The study will enroll over 300 participants and include yearly visits, memory exams, and brain donation to understand the pathophysiology of dementia in this population.

Enormous promise for new parasitic infection treatment

Researchers have discovered a new class of compounds that kill adult and egg stages of the human whipworm, a parasite infecting 500 million people. These compounds could lead to effective treatments and vaccines for whipworm infections, which cause physical and mental damage.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New research horizons

Two UCSB faculty members, Stefano Tessaro and Andrea Young, have been selected as recipients of the prestigious Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship for their outstanding contributions to cryptography and condensed matter physics. The fellowships will support their research efforts in building solid theoretical foundations for cryptogra...

Scientists discover how essential methane catalyst is made

A team of scientists has discovered how bacteria make the coenzyme F430, which facilitates the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into methane gas. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more effective and easier-to-grow methanogenic bacteria for energy production.

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.

How proteins find one another

The study reveals that arrestin's C-edge loops interact directly with the membrane, forming a new type of binding. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the role of the membrane in GPCR-arrestin interactions and developing drugs with fewer side effects.

The genetics behind being Not Like Daddy

A study by Laurine Gilles and colleagues sheds light on the genetics behind haploid induction in maize, revealing the molecular identity of a key gene that promotes fertilization. The identification of 'Not Like Dad' is an important breakthrough to fully understand the process and translate this breeding tool to other crops.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

No spoilers! Most people don't want to know their future

Most people would rather remain ignorant of upcoming events, even if they could make them happy, due to concerns about regret and suffering. People who decline knowledge of the future are more risk-averse and frequently purchase life insurance, suggesting they anticipate negative outcomes.

Birds of a feather mob together

A study found that male birds' mobbing behavior, such as dive bombing and aerial swoops, serves not only as protection against predators but also as a way to showcase their physical qualities to attract females. When females from the same species are present, males increase their participation in these displays.

NASA spies Tropical Cyclone 08P's formation

Tropical Cyclone 08P formed on Feb 22, strengthening to a tropical storm with winds near 40mph. The cyclone is moving southeast at 38mph, fueled by wind shear despite forming under adverse conditions.

Organ-on-a-chip mimics heart's biomechanical properties

Scientists at Vanderbilt University created a 3D organ-on-a-chip that can mimic the heart's biomechanical properties, allowing for the study of cardiac diseases, drug screening, and personalized medicine. The device replicates the mechanical conditions of the living heart, including electrical and biochemical environments.

Study says drugs could be developed cheaper and faster

Researchers have discovered a new way to identify and test new drugs using differential mobility spectrometry (DMS), which analyzes drug molecules based on their response to an electrical field. This technique can measure drug properties in seconds, allowing for high-throughput testing of hundreds or thousands of drugs.

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.

Hot spots of marine biodiversity most severely impacted by global warming

A new study identified six 'hot spots of marine biodiversity' severely impacted by climate change and fishing pressures, including the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. Industrial fishing has reduced global fish stocks, with harvest pressure expected to further exacerbate decline in these areas.

Tai Chi may reduce stroke risk

Weekly Tai Chi sessions reduced systolic blood pressure by 10.25mmHg and increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) by 0.16mmol/L in adults with known stroke risk factors. The study suggests that continuing Tai Chi exercise may help prevent strokes.

NASA spies Tropical Cyclone Bart's end

Tropical Cyclone Bart formed and weakened rapidly, becoming a short-lived storm after just two days. Its maximum sustained winds reached 35 knots before the system accelerated into mid-latitude wind flow, marking its end.

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.

The first Iberian lynx infected by the pseudorabies virus

The first Iberian lynx infected with the pseudorabies virus has been identified, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. The study found that the virus can have a negative impact on wild Iberian lynxes under threat of extinction, and researchers suggest vaccination as a potential strategy.

Sorting out risk genes for brain development disorders

Researchers uncovered 91 genes linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, including 38 previously unknown risk factors. The study found overlap between conditions like autism and intellectual impairments, with some genes associated with both. Additional findings suggest less severe mutations may cause autism without intellectual disability.

Lollipop or edible?

A new study conducted by RTI International found that many edible marijuana products lack clear labels, making it difficult for consumers to know what they are consuming. The study suggests improvements such as web-based education and graphics on labels can inform buyers and the public about safe consumption practices

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

See-through heating pad could help prevent burns from thermotherapy (video)

Researchers have developed a transparent heating pad with embedded conductive silver nanowires that allows users to see through it and monitor their skin's color. The device is flexible, biocompatible, and can heat quickly when applied with a coin-cell battery, making it a potential solution to prevent burns from thermotherapy.

New study gives weight to Darwin's theory of 'living fossils'

A new study confirms the existence of 'living fossils' by measuring evolutionary rates in the tuatara, a reptile that has remained relatively unchanged for millions of years. The research found that the tuatara's anatomy is remarkably conservative and shows slow evolution compared to its fossil relatives.

OCD-like behavior linked to genetic mutation

A Northwestern University study found that eliminating certain receptor genes in mice leads to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)-like behaviors, such as excessive grooming. The research provides strong evidence for the biological basis of OCD and may lead to new treatments for the disorder.

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.

Severe gum disease may be early sign of undiagnosed diabetes

Researchers found that people with severe gum disease had higher HbA1C values and were more likely to have pre-diabetes or suspected diabetes. This suggests that severe gum disease may be an early sign of undiagnosed diabetes, making screening in dental practices a feasible option.

A trend reversal in childhood obesity -- a decline in the BMI in 8-year-old boys

A study from Sahlgrenska Academy reveals a clear reduction in mean BMI and the frequency of childhood overweight and obesity among 8-year-old boys. The percentage of boys suffering from overweight or obesity decreased to its lowest levels since the early 1990s, with significant declines in both weight and obesity percentages.

Researchers reverse high blood pressure in offspring of hypertensive rats

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the University of Iowa have shown that gestational hypertension can be reversed in offspring born to hypertensive rats. The study's findings may offer a promising approach to addressing fetal programming and preventing the transfer of health risks from mothers to children.

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.

Rare fossil discovery raises questions

Researchers have uncovered adult and juvenile remains of a giant rodent species (Isostylomys laurdillardi) in Uruguay, raising questions about its classification. The study suggests that previously found fossils were from the same species as the newly discovered adults.

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.

Tiny fibers open new windows into the brain

Researchers have developed a single flexible fiber that can deliver optical, electrical, and chemical signals to the brain, enabling precise recordings of neuronal activity. This breakthrough could provide a significantly more accurate understanding of brain function and interconnections.

Itch neurons play a role in managing pain

Researchers found that itch and mild pain signals can be transmitted through the same spinal cord neurons, with GRP neurons acting as a 'braking system' to mitigate intense pain. In mice without these neurons, pain responses were increased and scratching behaviors were altered.

Heart risks in middle age boost dementia risk later in life

Research presented at American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2017 found that people with middle age heart disease risks, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or smoking, are at higher risk for dementia later in life. The study, which enrolled 15,744 participants, revealed that the risk of dementia was significan...

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.

First trace of differences between matter and 'ordinary' antimatter

Scientists have observed a tiny difference in the decay patterns of beauty baryons, suggesting that antibaryons may not be identical to their matter counterparts. This finding is significant because it could provide insight into why matter survived the Big Bang while antimatter did not.

Simple rule predicts when an ice age ends

Scientists have developed a simple rule to predict when the Earth's climate warms out of an ice age, using astronomical changes in the Earth's orbit around the Sun. The model predicts interglacials occurring roughly every 100,000 years, which explains why we've been in a warm period for the last 11,000 years.

Brain-machine interfaces: Bidirectional communication at last

Scientists have created a groundbreaking brain-machine interface that allows for bidirectional communication between the brain and prosthetic limbs. By transmitting sensory feedback to the brain, researchers were able to induce an artificial sensation of movement in paralyzed patients. This innovative technology holds promise for devel...

Incarceration linked to excess burden of cancer, new study finds

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that people who spend time in jails and prisons are more likely to develop certain types of cancer than the general population in Ontario. The study also revealed that these individuals have a higher mortality rate from cancer, particularly for men.

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.