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Science News Archive January 2017 - Page 21


Page 21 of 35

Drug-resistant 'nightmare bacteria' show worrisome ability to diversify and spread

Researchers found a wide variety of CRE species and genetic traits enabling resistance, with traits transferring easily among species. The findings suggest that CRE may be transmitting from person to person asymptomatically, highlighting the need for increased genomic surveillance.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

Light source discovery 'challenges basic assumption' of physics

Scientists at the University of Strathclyde discovered a way to create narrowband radiation with high efficiency, challenging a fundamental understanding of electromagnetic radiation. This breakthrough has significant implications for materials science and medical treatments.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 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.

Sweat bees on hot chillies: Native bees thrive in traditional farming, securing good yield

A study by Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg found that traditional farming practices on the Yucatán Peninsula create attractive habitats for native sweat bees, improving pollination services. The researchers discovered that moderate farming with slash-and-burn practices has no direct negative impact on native bee populations.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 16, 2017

Metastatic pancreatic cancer 'reprogrammed' for malignancy

A Vanderbilt-led study identifies a compound that can reverse the malignant reprogramming of metastatic pancreatic cancer cells. The research found that distant metastases undergo massive epigenetic changes that enable tumor formation, but these changes can be reversed with the inhibition of phosphogluconate dehydrogenase enzyme.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 16, 2017

Maternal micronutrients, nurturing environment boost child development

A new study published in Lancet Global Health found that maternal micronutrient supplements during pregnancy significantly boost child development and cognitive ability. The research also highlights the importance of a strong nurturing environment, home conditions, and parental education in shaping a child's intellectual abilities.

SourceGrand Challenges Canada·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJan 16, 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.

Common crop chemical leaves bees susceptible to deadly viruses

A widely used crop chemical, Sylgard 309, increases the susceptibility of honey bee larvae to a deadly virus, Black Queen Cell Virus. This finding suggests that exposure to organosilicone adjuvants negatively influences immunity in honey bee larvae, resulting in enhanced pathogenicity and mortality.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

Study applies game theory to genomic privacy

A new study from Vanderbilt University uses game theory to simulate re-identification risks and strikes an optimal balance between data sharing and privacy. The approach compares various data sharing policies in terms of risk and scientific utility, providing a more realistic estimate of the risk.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 16, 2017

Retail therapy for jealous partners

Researchers found that feelings of jealousy increase the desire for products that will attract someone's attention. Participants who were experiencing jealousy opted to buy eye-catching products even in public, indicating a strong motivation to regain their partner's focus.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJan 16, 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.

Protein research: The computer as microscope

Using infrared spectroscopy and computer simulations, researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum discovered a magnesium atom contributes significantly to switching G-proteins on and off. This finding has implications for understanding disease mechanisms and developing targeted drugs.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJan 16, 2017

Harrington Discovery Institute announces 2016 partnership scholars

The Harrington Discovery Institute has selected three 2016 partnership scholars to support groundbreaking research in Alzheimer's disease and blindness. The scholars will receive funding and expert pharmaceutical guidance to advance their discoveries into new medicines.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateJan 16, 2017

Frankly, do we give a damn...?

A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that people who frequently curse are less likely to be associated with lying and deception. The research also showed that those who use more profanity tend to use language patterns related to honesty, such as using pronouns like 'I' and 'me'.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 16, 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.

Key cardiovascular risk factors for Chinese Australians uncovered

Diabetes, smoking, and physical inactivity are identified as major risk factors for cardiovascular disease among Chinese Australians. The study found a 25% higher prevalence of diabetes, a 22% higher prevalence of smoking, and a 45% higher prevalence of physical inactivity compared to non-Chinese Australians.

SourceSax Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·DateJan 15, 2017

Seeing the quantum future... literally

Researchers from the University of Sydney have demonstrated a technique to predict and prevent the randomization of quantum systems, or decoherence, which destroys their useful quantum character. This achievement could help bring powerful quantum technology closer to reality.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2017

Diversification key to resilient fishing communities

Researchers found that well-diversified fishing communities in Alaska experienced little change in revenue despite fluctuations in fish abundance and market prices. Communities with high diversity were able to shift to different fisheries, increasing their revenue streams.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 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.

A chemical-biological strategy for microRNA target identification

Researchers have developed a chemical-biological strategy for microRNA target identification using photo-clickable miRNAs. This approach enables the identification of target genes associated with miRNAs without disrupting their function, revealing new insights into miRNA-involved cellular regulation pathways.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 13, 2017

Thinking of changing your behavior in 2017? Try moving first

Researchers found that people who recently moved were more likely to make changes to their behaviors, such as reducing energy and water use, commuting choices, and waste management. This study suggests that changing one aspect of life, like moving, can lead to broader positive changes.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·DateJan 13, 2017

Adaptive management of soil conservation is essential to improving water quality

A new study found that increased levels of soluble phosphorus in rivers entering Lake Erie may be linked to conservation measures, despite their success in reducing soil erosion and nutrient losses. The research highlights the need for adaptive management approaches to tackle both soluble and particulate phosphorus losses from farmland.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 13, 2017

Scientists engineer animals with ancient genes to test causes of evolution

Researchers created genetically modified fruit flies containing reconstructed ancient genes to study the evolutionary effects of genetic changes. They found that the accepted wisdom about the molecular causes of the flies' evolution is incorrect, challenging a classic example of adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 13, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

3-D scans for the automotive industry

The automotive industry is shifting towards more frequent model changes and smaller volumes, requiring increased flexibility in production. Researchers are using 3D scans to generate virtual three-dimensional images of production facilities, simulating how to convert lines for new models.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateJan 13, 2017

MIA transport protein no longer missing in action

Researchers at John Innes Centre identify CrNPF2.9 as key transporter of strictosidine, a central intermediate in monoterpene indole alkaloid biosynthesis; this discovery sheds light on the pathway of MIA compounds produced in the plant.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·DateJan 13, 2017

Teens unlikely to be harmed by moderate digital screen use

A new study of over 120,000 UK teens found that moderate digital screen use is not linked to negative effects on well-being. The researchers suggest a 'digital sweet spot' where screen time benefits teens by providing opportunities for social connections and skills. However, excessive engagement may displace important activities.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 13, 2017

Sensory stimuli control dopamine in the brain

A study by Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Driever and his team discovered that specific tactile and visual stimuli activate dopaminergic nerve cells in the forebrain, affecting brain function and basic behaviour. This finding could lead to new treatments for conditions like restless leg syndrome.

SourceBIOSS - Centre for Biological Signalling Studies·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 13, 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.

Hubble gazes into a black hole of puzzling lightness

The galaxy RX J1140.1+0307 has a supermassive black hole with one of the lowest known masses, yet its emission spectrum cannot be explained by current models. Scientists believe other mechanisms are at play in the interactions between the inner and outer parts of the accretion disk surrounding the black hole.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 13, 2017

Exeter research helps protect loggerhead turtles

Researchers from the University of Exeter have tagged and tracked hundreds of loggerhead turtles in Greece to study their migration patterns. The results show most turtles come from nesting populations within 125 miles, but one female traveled over 1,000 miles to breed in Turkey and Syria.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMarine Biology·DateJan 13, 2017

How the darkness and the cold killed the dinosaurs

The study reveals that sulfuric acid droplets formed after the asteroid impact caused long-lasting cooling, which likely contributed to the death of land-living dinosaurs. Marine ecosystems were also severely affected by the ocean circulation disturbances caused by surface cooling.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 13, 2017

Nigeria: Clean-burning stoves improve health for new mothers

A clinical trial in Nigeria replaced biomass and kerosene cookstoves with ethanol stoves, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease in pregnant women. The study found a significant decrease in high blood pressure among women who cooked with ethanol, with risks reduced by 97% compared to those using traditional...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 13, 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.

Researchers quantify in high speed a viper's strike in nature for the first time

UC Riverside-led research quantifies rattlesnake strikes for the first time using portable high-speed cameras, capturing three-dimensional video of a snake preying on a kangaroo rat. The study reveals that snakes can greatly exceed lab observations and that kangaroo rats may use elastic energy storage to evade strikes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 13, 2017

Children gain more weight when parents see them as 'overweight'

A study found that children perceived as 'overweight' by parents tend to gain more weight over time, possibly due to negative self-image and attempts to lose weight. The association was seen in both Australian and Irish families, with the link not explained by other factors.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 13, 2017

Researchers develop environmentally friendly soy air filter

The new soy-based filter can capture nearly all pollutants, including small particles and hazardous gaseous molecules. The biodegradable material is cost-effective and has the potential to improve indoor air quality, particularly in regions with poor air quality.

SourceWashington State University·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateJan 13, 2017

Reducing the radioresistance of cancer

Researchers at Kumamoto University find that interleukin-6 (IL-6) helps cancer cells survive radiation therapy by suppressing oxidative stress through the Nrf2-antioxidant pathway. This discovery offers new potential therapies targeting IL-6 to combat radioresistant cancers.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateJan 13, 2017

Biofuel matchmaker: Finding the perfect algae for renewable energy

A new collaborative project is using a unique climate-simulating laboratory system to quickly identify promising algae strains for renewable fuels. The Algae DISCOVR Project aims to reduce the cost and time needed to move promising algal strains from the laboratory to production.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJan 13, 2017
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.

How to be a winner in the game of evolution

Researchers found that the most successful phyla have a skeleton, live on land, and are parasites. This suggests that traits like having eyes or complex organs may not be primary drivers of species diversification. The study sheds light on why some groups have branched into many species while others remain relatively few.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateJan 13, 2017

Pig gene advance could boost sperm stocks from prized animals

Scientists have created male pigs that can produce sperm with the genetic blueprint of sought-after pigs by transplanting stem cells into surrogate animals. This breakthrough could dramatically improve pig farming efficiency and quality, as well as enhance desirable traits like disease resilience.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 13, 2017

What makes erionite carcinogenic?

New research suggests that erionite's carcinogenic effect may be caused by its fibrous structure, rather than iron present in accompanying minerals. The mineralogists' findings raise questions about the role of ferrous particles in erionite's toxicity.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 13, 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.

The global toll of fetal alcohol syndrome

A study by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health estimates that nearly 10% of women drink alcohol during pregnancy worldwide, leading to an estimated 119,000 cases of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome annually. The study also found that nearly 15 people per 10,000 have FAS globally.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJan 13, 2017

Improving the view on the genetic causes of retinitis pigmentosa

Researchers discover mutations in the REEP6 gene as a significant contributor to retinitis pigmentosa, a leading inherited eye disorder. The study identifies seven new cases of patients with tunnel vision and vision loss, shedding light on the genetic basis of this devastating disease.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 13, 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.

Common epilepsies share genetic overlap with rare types

Researchers found a significant excess of mutations in five genes previously implicated only in rare forms of epilepsy in individuals with common forms of the disorder. The study identified these genes as contributing to epilepsy risk in approximately 8 percent of people with familial non-acquired focal epilepsy.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJan 13, 2017

Depression as hard on the heart as obesity and cholesterol

A study published in Atherosclerosis journal reveals that depression poses a significant risk for cardiovascular diseases, comparable to high cholesterol levels and obesity. Researchers analyzed data from over 3,400 male patients, finding that depression accounts for roughly 15% of cardiovascular deaths.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateJan 13, 2017
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.

Scientists develop new wheat-wheatgrass hybrid

Researchers at Washington State University have created a perennial grain species, Salish Blue, which combines wheat and wheatgrass. This new crop has the potential to improve soil health, reduce waste, and provide sustainable food options for the Pacific Northwest.

SourceWashington State University·JournalGenetic Resources and Crop Evolution·DateJan 13, 2017

Older adults walk more for money and opportunity to donate to charity

A Penn Medicine study found that older adults walked 2,348 steps and 2,562 steps per day with financial incentives and charity donations, respectively. The study suggests that goal-based interventions can motivate older adults to exercise more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 13, 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.

Workouts with fewer reps could yield better results

A University of Stirling analysis found that doing fewer repetitions of high-intensity cycle sprints on a bike can lead to greater improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness. The optimal number of repetitions appears to be just two, allowing for shorter workouts without compromising results.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJan 13, 2017

Older, fitter adults experience greater brain activity while learning

Researchers found that older, fitter adults outperformed younger counterparts in memory tasks, with increased brain activity observed in regions typically declining with age. This suggests that cardiorespiratory fitness may contribute to brain maintenance and serve a compensatory role in age-related memory decline.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCortex·DateJan 13, 2017

Sensory stimuli control dopamine in the brain

Researchers at the University of Freiburg discovered that dopamine release is triggered by tactile and visual stimuli in the forebrain, affecting brain function. This finding may lead to new treatments for restless leg syndrome, a condition causing unpleasant sensations during sleep.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 13, 2017