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Science News Archive January 2017


Page 5 of 35

New techniques allow greater control of smartwatches

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed new ways to interact with smartwatches, including scrolling through apps with finger gestures on the watch band and rejecting phone calls by blowing on the screen. These techniques use existing technology such as gyroscope and accelerometer sensors, making them more accessible an...

Bacteria in the cervix may be key to understanding premature birth

A new study reveals that certain bacteria in the cervix and vagina may increase or decrease the risk of premature birth. Researchers found that some species, such as bifidobacterium and lactobacillus, lower the risk, while others, like anaerobic bacteria, significantly increase it.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Diverse natural fatty acids follow 'Golden Mean'

Researchers at the University of Jena discovered that naturally occurring fatty acids have a predictable number of structural formulas based on their chain length, following the Fibonacci sequence. This discovery enables accurate analytical processes in lipidomics, the study of all fats in cells and organisms.

Absorbing electromagnetic energy while avoiding the heat

Electrical engineers at Duke University have created a metal-free metamaterial that can absorb electromagnetic energy, opening doors for applications in imaging, sensing, and lighting. The device's ability to absorb energy without heating up has direct implications for thermal imaging devices and efficient lighting systems.

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.

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.

Clue to how cancer cells spread

A Yale-led research team found that a melanoma cell and a white blood cell can fuse to form a hybrid with the ability to metastasize, providing insight into how cancer spreads from solid tumors.

A way out of the junk-food eating cycle

Researchers used lab rats to demonstrate how environments shape eating habits, finding that pairing junk food with specific sound cues can reverse habitual behavior. Simple interventions like reminders or interrupting automatic processing of junk-food cues may also be effective in stymieing unhealthy food consumption.

Finding credibility clues on Twitter

Researchers found that booster words like 'undeniable' and positive emotion terms are viewed as highly credible, while hedge words and mocking terms are seen as less credible. The study also showed a correlation between longer message lengths and higher credibility scores.

Oral devices reduce sleep apnea but may not affect heart disease risk factors

A randomized controlled trial found that oral appliances significantly improved sleep quality and symptoms in patients with severe sleep apnea, but had no effect on endothelial function or blood pressure. The study suggests further research is needed to determine the impact of oral devices on cardiovascular health.

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.

Where the wild things are

Researchers at Colorado State University challenged traditional theories by showing that evolutionary changes influence organism movement during range expansion. Using flour beetles, they found shuffled populations moved more slowly and predictably than structured ones.

Rapid trait evolution crucial to species growth, CU Boulder study finds

A CU Boulder-led study found that rapid evolution at species habitat edges can drive population expansions, providing insight into climate change and invasive species encroachment. The study used red flour beetles and demonstrated that populations allowed to evolve independently at the edge spread 6% faster on average.

TSRI scientists find brain hormone that triggers fat burning

Researchers at TSRI identified a brain hormone called FLP-7 that stimulates fat metabolism without affecting food intake. By studying roundworms and visualizing the hormone in living animals, they found a direct link between serotonin levels in the brain and FLP-7 production, which triggers fat burning in the gut.

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.

Nordic countries are bringing about an energy transition worth copying

The Nordic countries' energy transition, driven by cities and municipalities, has achieved significant success with 83% of electricity generation coming from low-carbon sources. The study highlights the importance of trade and interconnection with Europe to reach energy targets, as well as the need for coordinated grid development and ...

New 'needle-pulse' beam pattern packs a punch

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new beam pattern, dubbed the 'needle-pulse' beam, which can create incredibly thin and intense beams that expand outward again after a mere nanosecond. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize fields such as ultrasound, radar, and microscopy.

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.

Toxic mercury in aquatic life could spike with greater land runoff

A new study by Rutgers University and others found that climate change could lead to a 300-600% increase in toxic mercury levels in zooplankton, tiny animals at the base of the marine food chain. This would have significant implications for fish consumption advisories aimed at protecting human health.

Research suggests way to improve stroke treatments

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have discovered a potential way to reduce complications from blood clot removal during stroke treatment. By targeting the plasma kallikrein protein, they aim to increase the efficacy of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) therapy while minimizing bleeding and swelling.

Novel risk genes for bipolar disorder

Researchers have discovered two novel genetic risk factors for bipolar disorder, FADS1 and FADS2, which play a crucial role in lipid metabolism. These findings support the notion that lipid abnormalities may contribute to the development of BD.

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.

Sexson receives top educator award from American Psychiatric Association

Dr. Sandra B. Sexson, a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist, has received the Vestermark Psychiatry Educator Award for her leadership and creativity in psychiatric education. She is recognized for her 40-year dedication to advancing the field of psychiatry through various academic and professional roles.

Researchers list reasons not to lick a toad

A comprehensive review of Bufonidae family compounds reveals their largely unexplored potential for new drug discovery. The study highlights the critical need for conservation efforts due to declining amphibian populations.

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.

US deaths from diabetes significantly underestimated, analysis shows

A new analysis published in PLOS ONE found that the proportion of US deaths attributable to diabetes is as high as 12%, three times higher than estimates based on death certificates. Diabetes was estimated to be the third leading cause of death in the US in 2010, after heart disease and malignant neoplasms.

Earth's orbital variations and sea ice synch glacial periods

A new study by Brown University researchers shows that the 100,000-year orbital cycle and the 21,000-year precession cycle work together to drive the glacial cycle. The team found that sea ice in the Southern Hemisphere plays a crucial role in modulating the effects of precession on global temperature, leading to an expansion of sea ic...

Sound waves create whirlpools to round up tiny signs of disease

Researchers at Duke University have developed a tiny device that uses sound waves to create whirlpools to gather proteins and other biomarkers from blood, urine or saliva samples. This innovative technology has the potential to form the basis of a small, inexpensive point-of-care device for early disease diagnosis.

New gene-delivery therapy restores partial hearing, balance in deaf mice

Scientists at Harvard Medical School have developed a new gene-delivery therapy that successfully restores partial hearing and balance in mice born with genetic hearing loss. The treatment uses a modified adeno-associated virus (AAV) wrapped in protective bubbles to penetrate hair cells, which are notoriously difficult to treat.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Professors Ateshian and Myers win ASME honors for bioengineering research

Professors Ateshian and Myers have made significant contributions to the fields of cartilage mechanics and soft tissue biomechanics. Ateshian's work focuses on developing better modalities for osteoarthritis treatment, while Myers studies the mechanics of the uterus and cervix to prevent premature births.

LSD alters perception via serotonin receptors

Researchers discovered LSD alters perception by stimulating serotonin 2A receptors in the brain. This finding may lead to new courses of treatment for psychiatric disorders like depression, addictions, and phobias by enhancing personal relevance.

Make tomatoes flavorful again

Genetic analysis reveals dozens of chemical compounds associated with tomato flavor that have been lost in modern varieties. Selection for size and firmness has led to a reduction in sweetness and flavor content, highlighting the need to reintroduce flavor-infusing genes.

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.

Antioxidants get small

Researchers at Rice University have created single-molecule compounds that quench damaging reactive oxygen species, offering a new basis for antioxidant therapies. The molecules, called PEG-PDI, are true mimics of superoxide dismutase enzymes and show promise for treating cancer, traumatic brain injuries, and chronic diseases.

'Field research and a sharper focus on the young could help combat terrorism'

A new research paper published in Science argues that the US government's national security systems have not adapted sufficiently to the threats posed by groups like Al Qaeda and Islamic State. The paper calls for more field research on young people to inform machine learning and big data analysis to combat terrorism.

Data suggests modest physical activity associated with improvement in markers

Researchers found that even modest levels of physical activity decreased insulin resistance and biomarkers of inflammation, while sedentary time increased levels of satiety-related chemicals in the blood. The study suggests that physical activity and inactivity may operate through different pathways to modulate disease risk.

Mapping biodiversity and conservation hotspots of the Amazon

Researchers used remote sensing data to identify functional diversity hotspots in the Peruvian Andes and Amazon basin, revealing 36 forest functional classes. Up to 46% of these areas are currently protected, with government control over two-thirds and indigenous lands holding one-third.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

This is LSD attached to a brain cell serotonin receptor

For the first time, researchers at UNC School of Medicine have discovered precisely what LSD looks like in its active state when attached to a human serotonin receptor. This breakthrough reveals that the psychoactive effects of LSD last for so long because part of the receptor folds over the drug molecule, locking it in place.

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.

How the border guards fail in HIV infection

Researchers found abnormal antibody levels in HIV-1-infected individuals, suggesting an important factor contributing to the failure of the gut to prevent microbial invasion. The study revealed a significant elevation of immunoglobulin M levels and decreased ratios of IgG/IgM and IgA/IgM in HIV-1-infected patients.

By age 6, gender stereotypes can affect girls' choices

A new study found that by age 6, girls are already absorbing societal stereotypes about intellectual ability and choosing activities based on these notions. The researchers used experiments to evaluate the beliefs of 5-, 6- and 7-year-old boys and girls about gender and brilliance.

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.

Twice-daily radiation therapy cuts deaths from head and neck cancer

A new study found that twice-daily radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy reduces head and neck cancer deaths by 20% and slows disease progression. The treatment, known as hyperfractionated radiotherapy, has shown promise in treating advanced stage patients who face lower survival rates.

CU Boulder team to track methane leaks using lasers

A CU Boulder team, in collaboration with NIST and UC Davis, will track methane leaks from natural gas storage facilities using a novel laser system. The ground-based system measures changes in methane concentrations down to one part-per-billion, while light aircraft flights provide estimates of total emissions.

Researchers find improved preventive care from Obamacare Medicaid expansion

Researchers found improved preventive care and health behaviors among low-income childless adults due to Obamacare Medicaid expansion, with increased access to healthcare services and reduced barriers to care. They also reported better self-assessed health and fewer days of poor health or restricted activities.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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