Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 2, 2017


For the first time, researchers identify key proteins that may make Zika so deadly

Scientists have identified seven key proteins in the Zika virus genome that may be responsible for its damaging health effects. The study provides valuable clues for future research on how the virus interacts with human cells and how to develop treatments or prevention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 2, 2017

New study finds evolution of brain and tooth size were not linked in humans

Researchers found that brain size evolved at different rates for different species, especially during Homo's evolution, while chewing teeth evolved at similar rates. This challenges the classic view that larger brains led to smaller teeth as a result of tool use.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 2, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Alcohol abuse increases risk of heart conditions as much as other risk factors

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that alcohol abuse increases the risk of atrial fibrillation, heart attack and congestive heart failure, similar to other well-established risk factors. The researchers analyzed data from California residents with ambulatory surgery or emergency care and found...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 2, 2017

The emergence of a new dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia

A new dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia proposes a biological basis for the disorder, with dopamine signaling playing a key role in its development. The hypothesis has been revised numerous times since clinical observations first implicated dopamine decades ago.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 2, 2017

Parental obesity linked to delays in child development, NIH study suggests

Children of obese mothers are more likely to fail tests of fine motor skill and social competence, while those born to extremely obese couples also show signs of problem-solving ability delays. The study's findings suggest that paternal obesity also has a significant impact on child development.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 2, 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.

A closer look at the eye

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have developed a new imaging technique that can distinguish individual retinal ganglion cells, which bear most of the responsibility for relaying visual information to the brain. This breakthrough could enable earlier diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases like glaucoma.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 2, 2017

AMPK -- the enzyme that makes physical activity healthy

A new study reveals that AMPK plays a key role in enhancing insulin's ability to stimulate glucose uptake in muscles after physical activity. This discovery may lead to the development of an 'exercise pill' for people with limited mobility or those who struggle with physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalDiabetes·DateJan 2, 2017

Research on dinosaur embryos reveals that eggs took 3 to 6 months to hatch

Research on dinosaur embryos shows that non-avian dinosaurs took 3-6 months to hatch, similar to reptiles. This finding suggests prolonged incubation may have affected their ability to compete with rapidly evolving bird populations, contributing to the mass extinction event.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 2, 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.

Think chicken -- think intelligent, caring and complex

Research shows chickens possess complex cognitive abilities, including numerical understanding, self-awareness, and referential communication. They also experience emotions like fear, anticipation, and empathy, and demonstrate problem-solving skills in social situations.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateJan 2, 2017