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Science News Archive June 2017


Page 12 of 40

Sea sponges stay put with anchors that bend but don't break

Researchers found that the internal structure of sea sponge anchors, known as basalia spicules, allows them to bend up to 2.4 times before breaking, enabling them to securely attach to the seafloor. The study's findings may lead to the development of new materials with similar properties.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Correct connections are crucial

Researchers have discovered that correct connections between brain regions are essential for optimal relief of Parkinson's Disease symptoms using deep brain stimulation. By analyzing brain connectivity, they were able to predict the best possible outcome and optimize electrode placement.

Unexpected rotation in a stone-dead galaxy

A team of scientists has detected a rotating stellar disk in the ancient elliptical-shaped galaxy MACS2129-1, located 10 billion light-years from Earth. This finding contradicts prevailing astrophysical theory regarding the formation of such galaxies shortly after the Big Bang. The stars in MACS2129-1 rotate at a speed of over 500 km p...

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.

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.

New efficient, low-temperature catalyst for hydrogen production

Scientists have developed a new low-temperature catalyst that produces high-purity hydrogen gas while using up carbon monoxide, improving the performance of fuel cells. The catalyst operates at low temperature and pressure, making it less expensive and easier to use.

How eggs got their shapes

Researchers found that egg shape varies smoothly across species and is determined by membrane properties rather than shell. A strong correlation links birds with elliptical and asymmetric eggs to high flight ability, revealing adaptations for flight may have driven egg-shape variety in birds.

Study examines gun policy preferences across racial groups

A new study found stronger support for all forms of gun control among Latinos and blacks than whites, with significant predictors including racial prejudice and ideology. The researchers analyzed data from a 2015 survey on gun control conducted by YouGov.com.

NASA's Webb telescope gets freezing summertime lodging in Houston

The James Webb Space Telescope will undergo a three-month test period at NASA's Johnson Space Center to prove its ability to operate in space-like conditions. Chamber A, a historic Apollo-era test chamber, simulates temperatures as low as -393 degrees Fahrenheit, essential for detecting infrared light from distant objects.

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.

Crowdsourced data may inaccurately represent some population groups

A UCSF-led study found that crowdsourced data may not be representative of certain populations, such as older adults and racial/ethnic minorities. The study suggests that proactive efforts are needed to promote inclusion of underrepresented groups in projects using crowdsourced recruitment and data collection.

Quantum thermometer or optical refrigerator?

Physicists have developed optomechanical beams that can act as inherently accurate thermometers or optical shields, exploiting the principles of quantum physics. These microscopic beams have potential applications in biology, chemistry, electronics, and chip-based temperature sensors that never need calibration.

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.

Lab grown human colons change study of GI disease

Scientists have successfully grown human embryonic colons in a laboratory using pluripotent stem cells, providing unprecedented detail for studying GI diseases. The technology also holds potential for generating human gastrointestinal tract tissues for transplantation into patients.

Piling on pressure solves enduring mystery about metal's makeup

Researchers solved a mystery about lithium's structure, revealing its atoms are arranged simply like oranges in a box, contrary to previous complex results. The study used high-pressure experiments and advanced quantum mechanics to accurately observe the material's fundamental properties.

Australian origin likely for iconic New Zealand tree

New fossil research from the University of Adelaide suggests that the ancestors of the iconic New Zealand Christmas Tree, P?hutukawa, may have originated in Australia. The fossils, found near St Helens, East Coast Tasmania, date back to around 25 million years ago and describe two new species of Metrosideros.

Don't lose sleep over sharing your bed with your pet or kids

Research highlights common factors and advantages between human-animal co-sleeping and adult-child co-sleeping. Co-sleeping has been practiced across cultures, but its benefits and drawbacks are often overlooked, according to Australian researchers.

On polygamous females and single-parent males

A study by Bielefeld University researchers found that male plover survival rates are significantly higher than females, resulting in a sex bias of only 37% females among adult plovers. This advantage may be due to males having greater body weight and growth rates at hatching.

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.

Nearly half of US women don't know heart disease is their No. 1 killer

A new study reveals that nearly half of US women are not aware of the leading cause of death among females, with only 40% reporting a heart health assessment by their healthcare provider. Women's Heart Alliance reports alarming data on delayed medical care due to weight concerns and lack of education.

Personalized exoskeletons are taking support one step farther

Researchers developed a personalized exoskeleton system that reduces energy expenditure during walking by 24%, on average. The system subtly changes its pattern of assistance based on individual energy expenditure patterns, leading to further reductions in energy expenditure with repeated use.

Using science to combat addiction

The article highlights the need for science to inform policies addressing addiction, citing technological advances that have contributed to increasing rates of addictions. Science can also be used to counteract addictions through better drug regulation and programs addressing long-term brain changes.

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.

Multifunctional catalyst for poison-resistant hydrogen fuel cells

Researchers at Kyushu University have developed a multifunctional catalyst that can oxidize both hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the same reaction system. The catalyst mimics the behavior of two enzymes and shows promise for increasing energy production efficiency from hydrogen fuel cells.

Accentuate the positive to reduce risk of chronic disease

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that individuals with a diverse range of positive emotions have lower levels of systemic inflammation, which may reduce their risk for chronic diseases. The research, led by Anthony Ong, suggests that having a rich and diverse positive emotional life may benefit health.

Critical gaps in our knowledge of where infectious diseases occur

A recent joint statement highlights the critical lack of knowledge on the worldwide distribution of disease-causing organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Macroecologists propose creating a data network to close these gaps and predict future outbreaks.

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.

News from the pathogen that causes sleeping sickness

Researchers have identified a promising therapeutic target for African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness. The newly discovered TbALPH1 enzyme triggers the degradation of messenger RNA and is unique to the parasite's biology.

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.

Parkinson's is partly an autoimmune disease, study finds

Researchers found that autoimmunity plays a role in Parkinson's disease, where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. The study identified alpha-synuclein protein as a trigger for immune response, raising hope for new diagnostic tests and therapies to prevent neuronal death.

Injury measurement technique helps players get back in the game

A new method of measuring sports-related muscle injury uses localised bioimpedance measurement (L-BIA) to quantify damage and provide accurate return-to-play time. The study found L-BIA enables clinicians to differentiate between two types of partial muscle tears that cannot be distinguished using MRI.

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.

Single fungus amplifies Crohn's disease symptoms

Researchers found that Candida tropicalis infection intensifies Crohn's disease symptoms in mice by modulating gut bacteria and triggering inflammation. The study suggests anti-fungal medications could be beneficial in combating debilitating symptoms of the disease.

Newly identified protection mechanism serves as first responder to cellular stress

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a fast and short-lived spike in signaling lipid PI3,5P2 that helps protect yeast cells from high salt stress before gene expression takes over. The study suggests that this early protection pathway may exist in other organisms and respond to different types of cellular stress.

In organizations, bullying begets whining, study finds

Researchers at Northern Illinois University found a significant correlation between bullying and whining in teams, negatively affecting group dynamics. The 'poor-pitiful-me' routine can disrupt decision-making groups, while both behaviors should be considered aggressive tactics that can derail meetings and lead to suboptimal decisions.

The brain mechanism behind multitasking

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a brain mechanism that enables more efficient multitasking by reactivating learned memories. This process prevents interference from competing tasks and can improve learning and memory functions in daily life.

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.

One in 6 women with learning disabilities has attempted suicide

A new study found that women with learning disabilities had a lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts 16.6% compared to 3.3% for those without learning disabilities. Chronic parental domestic violence and childhood sexual abuse increased the risk of suicide attempts among men and women with learning disabilities.

Pollinator extinctions alter structure of ecological networks

Field experiments show that removing a dominant pollinator species alters foraging patterns among remaining pollinators, leading to changes in plant visitation and reduced biodiversity. This study highlights the importance of considering ecological cascades in predicting the impact of pollinator extinctions on ecosystems.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Cindy soaking the Gulf Coast

Tropical Storm Cindy is expected to bring heavy rainfall and life-threatening flash flooding to the northern Gulf coast. Maximum sustained winds of 50 mph are forecasted, with storm surge, tropical storm force winds, and isolated tornadoes also possible.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Systems pharmacology modelers accelerate drug discovery in Alzheimer's

Researchers have developed systems-pharmacological modeling to analyze and predict the dynamics of new drugs for Alzheimer's disease. The models can accurately match cerebrospinal fluid analysis results with brain processes, allowing for optimal drug administration and therapy selection.

A new virtual approach to science in space

Researchers suggest using telepresence technology to reduce communication delays in space research, enabling scientists to conduct scientific investigations more quickly. This approach could expand the number of destinations where humans can do great science, including those currently inaccessible due to safety concerns.

Is there an alternative to disposable diapers?

Elimination communication (EC) uses an infant's cues to recognize when they need to pee or poop, promoting early toilet training and protecting child health. By introducing EC at 6 months, caregivers can reduce the frustration and work associated with traditional toilet training.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New catalyst paves way for carbon neutral fuel

Researchers have developed an efficient catalyst that converts CO2 from the air into synthetic natural gas in a 'clean' process using solar energy. The catalyst produces almost pure methane without side products and operates at mild temperatures, making it viable for industrial activities.

Scientists may have cracked rugby league's code

Higher ranked NRL teams have more comprehensive defensive strategies, fewer missed tackles, and greater dummy half runs. This suggests they can exploit holes in opponents' defenses through gang tackling.