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Science News Archive July 2017


Page 23 of 37

Water makes the proton shake

Researchers have elucidated the ultrafast motions and structural characteristics of protons in water under ambient conditions, identifying the Zundel cation as a predominant species. The proton explores all locations between two water molecules within less than 100 fs, losing memory quickly due to strong electric field fluctuations.

Diet rich in tomatoes cuts skin cancer in half in mice

A new study published in Scientific Reports found that daily tomato consumption reduced skin cancer tumors by 50% in male mice, while female mice showed no significant differences. The researchers suggest that dietary carotenoids, particularly lycopene, may protect skin against UV light damage.

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.

Research takes on radical rethink of UK digital infrastructure

A new £5 million research partnership aims to create super-resilient, data-driven networks that can adapt to changing demands. The partnership will develop an 'autonomic' network with minimal human intervention, leading to improved customer experiences and greater agility for businesses.

Ga-ga, goo-goo, why a baby likes you

Researchers found that by one year old, infants prefer speakers of their native tongue but not unfamiliar languages. Infants also form positive biases toward prosocial behavior from familiar language speakers, suggesting an innate preference for similar groups.

MIT Bitcoin study shows value of exclusive access for early adopters

A study by MIT researchers found that delaying access to new technologies can stifle their spread, as seen in the case of cryptocurrency Bitcoin among incoming freshmen. The study showed that early adopters who received their allotment late cashed out at nearly twice the rate as those who received it earlier.

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.

On the way to a biological alternative

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have made a significant step towards understanding nitrogenase's function by analyzing its spatial structure. The team discovered that a vanadium ion replaces molybdenum in the enzyme, leading to distinct effects on its geometric and electronic structure.

A neural switch for becoming alpha male

Researchers discovered a neural circuit in mice that enhances social dominance, boosting chances of becoming an alpha male during aggressive encounters. Stimulating this circuit increased the mouse's winning rate to 90% without affecting motor performance or anxiety levels.

BASF unveils new class of insecticide for malaria prevention

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended BASF's Interceptor(R) G2, a long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito net containing chlorfenapyr, for malaria prevention. The new product is the first to be approved from a new chemical class since the 1980s and offers a promising solution to combat malaria resistance.

Bacterium actively drives colorectal cancer tumor cell growth

A subspecies of the bacterium Streptococcus gallolyticus actively promotes the development of colorectal cancer by driving CRC cell proliferation through β-catenin cell signaling. The study found that infected mice developed more tumors and greater β-catenin production than control mice.

Yes, the sun is an ordinary, solar-type star after all

A new study resolves the ongoing debate about the Sun's cyclic behavior by showing it follows the same pattern as other nearby solar-type stars. The research suggests that the Sun's magnetic cycle depends on its rotation rate and luminosity, advancing scientists' understanding of stellar magnetic fields.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

How neurons sense our everyday life

Researchers at King's College London have discovered a molecular mechanism that enables neurons to adapt to their environment, shaping learning and memory formation. The study reveals that Brevican protein plays a critical role in regulating experience-dependent plasticity, influencing the intrinsic properties of PV+ interneurons and s...

Chillier winters, smaller beaks

Researchers found a clear correlation between winter temperatures and beak size, with the coldest winters associated with the smallest beaks. This study challenges previous theories on the driving forces behind beak evolution and provides new insights into the relationship between climate and morphological traits.

Research makes robots better at following spoken instructions

Researchers at Brown University developed a new system that enables robots to follow spoken instructions, regardless of their level of abstraction. The system uses language grounding and hierarchical planning algorithms to analyze the specificity of commands, resulting in dramatic speed-ups in performance.

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.

Satellite sees Tropical Storm Fernanda heading west

Tropical Storm Fernanda is strengthening as it moves west through the Eastern Pacific Ocean, nearing hurricane strength. The National Hurricane Center predicts significant strengthening over the next 48 hours, with Fernanda expected to become a hurricane later today.

Machine learning technique offers insight into plasma behavior

A new machine learning technique can help identify plasma behavior that precedes disruptions in tokamaks, allowing scientists to steer the plasma towards stability. By analyzing past experiments and predicting disruption precursors, researchers can implement a system to monitor the plasma for signs of instability.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Getting to the roots of Sahara mustard invasion in the American Southwest

A researcher tracked Sahara mustard's spread through California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada, finding it adapted to local conditions by shifting germination timing. The plant's rapid growth and self-fertilization enabled its successful invasion, but eradication may be possible with targeted efforts.

Ancient plankton-like microfossils span 2 continents

Researchers discovered ancient plankton-like microfossils in South African and Australian rocks, dating back 3.4 billion years. The fossils' unique morphology and carbon isotope values suggest they had planktonic stages in their life cycles.

Nickel is crucial for the Earth's magnetic field

Researchers found that nickel is essential for creating the geodynamo effect that generates the Earth's magnetic field. Without nickel, convection currents cannot form, leading to a magnetic field. The study used advanced computer simulations to analyze the behavior of metals in the Earth's core.

Study suggests route to improving rechargeable lithium batteries

Scientists discovered that smooth surfaces are key to preventing dendrites from forming in solid electrolyte lithium batteries, a breakthrough that could enable safer and more efficient battery technology. By eliminating the need for liquid electrolytes, researchers aim to double a battery's energy capacity.

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.

Largest study of malaria gene function reveals many potential drug targets

A recent study analyzing over half of the malaria parasite's genes found that two thirds are essential for survival, opening up new avenues for antimalarial drug development. The researchers developed a method to decipher gene function by switching off and counting the growth of genetically modified parasites.

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.

Time to rise and shine

The copepod Calanus finmarchicus uses a genetic clock to regulate its daily vertical migration, which is likely the largest daily movement of biomass worldwide. This internal rhythm influences the entire food web in the North Atlantic and has significant implications for marine ecosystems.

Tiny cellular antennae key to fat formation in muscle

Scientists at UCSF discover primary cilia, found on fat-forming cells in muscle, regulate fat formation and tissue renewal. The study provides new insights into muscle aging and disease, potentially leading to improved muscle regeneration.

Low doses of radiation could harm cardiovascular health, study suggests

A recent study published in the International Journal of Radiation Biology found that low doses of radiation can cause permanent alterations in coronary artery endothelial cells, leading to reduced nitric oxide production and increased oxidative stress. This damage can result in long-term premature dysfunction and an increased risk of ...

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.

Early adopters prefer earliest access

When natural early adopters (NEAs) are prevented from accessing a new technology, it can lead to a cascading negative effect on adoption across the population. The experiment found that among self-proclaimed NEAs, cash-out rates increased significantly when access was delayed, indicating they were more likely to abandon the technology.

Elderly yoginis have greater cortical thickness

Scientists found greater cortical thickness in elderly female yoga practitioners' brains, associated with improved cognitive functions like attention and memory. Long-term yoga practice appears to shape the brain structure and could offset age-related cognitive decline.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Testing a soft artificial heart

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a soft artificial heart made from silicone that mimics the human heart's form and function. The device lasts only 3,000 beats but paves the way for future improvements in artificial hearts.

Surging heat may limit aircraft takeoffs globally

A new study finds that rising temperatures will make it harder for many aircraft to take off, with some planes needing to dump weight or wait for cooler hours. The study projects widespread effects on aviation, particularly in hotter parts of the world.

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.

The earliest stages of life might be simpler than we thought

Researchers have discovered that mammalian cells can build an embryo by making four simple decisions, including counting their neighboring cells. This simplified understanding of embryonic development challenges traditional theories and offers new insights into evolution.

ASHG honors John Mulvihill with Mentorship Award

John J. Mulvihill, MD, receives the ASHG Mentorship Award for his sustained pattern of exemplary mentorship at various academic ranks. He has founded successful genetics training programs and mentored trainees across fields and career stages.

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.

A hit love song for toads

Researchers at James Cook University found that a specific sound frequency and pulse rate attract more reproductive female cane toads, making it easier to control the population. This technique may be used for large-scale eradication of island populations but not mainland Australia.

Why Japan's coastal zones might be disappearing due to climate change

Climate change projections indicate that Japan's coastal zones will experience significant beach erosion due to rising sea levels and increased wave heights. The study suggests that beach-loss rates may reach as high as 83% by 2100, posing a significant threat to coastal management.

Could calcium hold the key to fighting a dangerous hospital infection?

Excess gut calcium plays a crucial role in triggering the germination of Clostridium difficile (C. diff) spores, according to new research published in PLoS Pathogens. This discovery may lead to better treatment for vulnerable patients and help slow or stop the transmission cycle of C. diff infections.

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.

A big step? Trial will test improvisational dance as dementia therapy

A new clinical trial will assess the effectiveness of improvisational dance in improving gait and balance problems associated with cognitive impairment and memory loss, as well as reducing apathy and depression. The 12-week program will be divided into four groups, including dance with social engagement and dance only.

NASA infrared image shows Eugene now a remnant

Former Hurricane Eugene has diminished to a small area of convection in the northeastern quadrant. The storm's remnant circulation is expected to continue moving northwest and dissipate over the next couple of days.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New research uses satellites to predict end of volcanic eruptions

Using infrared satellite data, researchers have successfully predicted the end of lava flow-forming eruptions. The system detects heat emissions from erupting volcanoes and analyzes them to determine when the eruption will end. This approach has significant implications for reducing disturbance caused by volcanic eruptions.