Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive June 2017


Page 21 of 40

Dynamic DNA helps ward off gene damage, study reveals

A study by the University of Edinburgh reveals that dynamic DNA properties can ward off gene damage and promote genome organization. The research highlights the importance of scaffold attachment factor A in forming a protective chromatin mesh that allows for flexible and responsive cell signals.

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.

Cryo-EM images reveal how key biological machine unfolds problem proteins

Researchers have gained near-atomic resolution insights into the disaggregase protein's unfolding process, which helps break apart toxic protein aggregates. The study's findings suggest a ratchet-like mechanism and potential applications in developing new drugs or understanding biological processes.

Drill holes in fossil shells point to bigger predators picking on small prey

Researchers found that as predators grew in size, they targeted smaller prey rather than larger quarry, suggesting a shift in ecological dynamics. The study's findings support the escalation hypothesis, which posits that top-down pressure from larger predators drove key evolutionary developments in prey species.

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 images show how sperm binds to the egg surface

Researchers have obtained the first 3D snapshots of a sperm protein attached to a complementary egg coat protein at the beginning of fertilization. The study reveals a common egg protein architecture involved in sperm recognition in both mollusc and mammal species.

The quest begins to bring ultra-speed wireless connectivity to first responders

Researchers will develop special channel soundings and software-defined radio systems to deliver ultra-reliability in emergency situations. They aim to address unique challenges such as link failures and signal blockage, enabling first responders to relay video in moving ambulances and control robots in restricted indoor environments.

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.

High prevalence of CRE in Washington, D.C. healthcare facilities

A new study reveals that Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) have become endemic in Washington, D.C. healthcare facilities, with a prevalence rate of 5.2%. The study, which monitored 16 facilities, found that male patients and adults aged 20-39 had higher rates of CRE infection.

Science shows how faces guide, and reflect, our social lives

Researchers investigate face perception's impact on human behavior, including recognizing emotions, forming impressions, and making judgments. The study reveals the complexities of face processing and its role in shaping our interactions with others.

Optimizing feeding is necessary to maintain milk production in organic herds

A study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that varying diet formulation and pasture management can significantly affect greenhouse gas emissions on organic dairy farms. The researchers identified four feeding strategies, with diets featuring more soybeans resulting in lower nitrous oxide emissions.

Taking circular economy to the next level

A growing number of businesses and governments have adopted the circular economy framework, aiming to keep resources in use for longer. The Journal of Industrial Ecology special issue explores the concept's complexities and opportunities, including product design methods, social forces, and challenges of implementing circularity efforts.

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.

Jerusalem tower younger than thought

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science used advanced radiocarbon dating methods to determine the age of a massive stone tower in Jerusalem. The new date, around 800-900 BCE, is nearly 1,000 years younger than the previously assigned date of 1700 BCE and moves the construction of the tower to the Iron Age.

Modeling the brain with 'Lego bricks'

A new computational method uses data from medical imaging to create a color-coded 'digital lego brain' model that predicts organ deformation under surgical action. This allows surgeons to virtually rehearse operations and anticipate potential complications.

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.

New tool measures resilience in adolescent Syrian refugees

Researchers at Yale University developed a brief and reliable survey tool to measure resilience in children and adolescents displaced by the Syrian conflict. The tool identifies individual, family, and cultural sources of strength and asks respondents to rate statements on a five-point scale.

A more safe and efficient means for drug manufacturing

Researchers created a system that uses continuous flow technology to produce pharmaceutical compounds, improving safety and yield. The new approach yielded 24 kilograms of chemotherapy agent prexasertib over three days, demonstrating its effectiveness.

Analysis sheds light on how metaphors like 'sheds light' evolved

A large-scale study found that the evolution of word meanings in English metaphors follows a systematic and predictable pattern over the past 1100 years. The researchers identified key domains where word senses transitioned from literal to metaphorical meaning, including emotionality and embodiment.

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.

Gender, race & class: Language change in post-apartheid South Africa

A recent study by Rajend Mesthrie found that gender is a stronger predictor of language change than class among young black university students in post-apartheid South Africa. The research showed that female students are more likely to adopt the 'crossover' language varieties, which were previously associated with white-dominated groups.

Transgender actors effective in teaching new doctors to provide respectful care

A study published in the Journal of Graduate Medical Education found that transgender actors can effectively teach new doctors to provide sensitive care. The researchers used standardized patients, including a transgender actress, to assess residents' communication skills and patient satisfaction. The results showed that the training a...

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.

Tracking the build-up to volcanic eruptions

ASU scientists develop technique using zircon crystals to trace pulses of heat inside a volcano, which may help better predict risk. The new findings suggest that heat pulses before an eruption both begin and end more abruptly than previously thought.

Child Mind Institute's Healthy Brain Network releases open dataset

The Child Mind Institute has released a comprehensive open dataset from the Healthy Brain Network study, featuring behavioral and cognitive assessments, brain imaging, genetics, and more. This dataset will enable researchers to identify biomarkers for childhood mental health disorders and develop new diagnostic tools.

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.

Reproducing a retinal disease on a chip

Scientists developed an organ-on-a-chip model that mimics human retinal cells and vascular endothelial cells. The model replicates neovascularization in wet-type age-related macular degeneration, offering a potential alternative to animal models for disease modeling and drug screening.

Plant compound more powerful than AZT against HIV

A plant compound, patentiflorin A, has been discovered to be more effective against HIV than the widely used drug AZT. The compound inhibits an enzyme needed for HIV to replicate, making it a promising candidate for development into a new HIV treatment.

Want to feel stronger and thinner? Get some exercise

A UBC study found that brief 30-minute workouts improve women's body image and physical perceptions, leading to increased feelings of strength and self-esteem. The positive effects last beyond the exercise itself, with improvements in body image persisting for at least 20 minutes post-workout.

Special journal issue showcases Aalto University's materials research

Researchers investigated electronic materials for micro-electronics, opto-electronics and quantum technologies, developing flexible thermoelectric zinc oxide thin films on cotton textiles. Aalto University's expertise in cutting-edge materials science is highlighted, with publications cited more often than the world average.

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.

Understanding river thermal landscapes

Researchers are creating a holistic view of river thermal regimes using measurements over time and space, enabling more effective management and conservation efforts. The incorporation of these data has significant implications for the future of river science.

The glue that keeps cells together

A study published in Nature Physics reveals that small changes in physical parameters can significantly impact the formation and growth of cell-cell contacts. The researchers used computer simulations and experiments to investigate the biophysicics of cadherin proteins, which play a crucial role in maintaining cellular bonds.

Making hydrogen fuel from humid air

A team of researchers has created a photocatalyst that can generate hydrogen from water vapor using sunlight, producing the fuel without electrolytes or external power sources. The novel paint-like material can be applied to any surface, including building facades, and enables hydrogen production almost anywhere.

Online cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is effective for military

A study conducted by University of North Texas professor Daniel Taylor found that online cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is effective in military personnel, with improved sleep quality and reduced use of sleep medication. However, the internet-delivered therapy was about half as effective as traditional methods.

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.

Dual-agent PET/MR with time of flight detects more cancer

Researchers found that dual-agent PET/MR with time of flight detects more bone metastases in breast and prostate cancer patients, improving detection accuracy and reducing radiation dose. The study used combined imaging agents <sup>18</sup> F-FDG and <sup>18</sup> F-NaF to enhance image quality.

Female elk can learn to avoid hunters with age

A study published in PLOS ONE found that older female elk adjust their behavior to avoid hunters, reducing movement rates and using safer terrain when near roads. This suggests that learning plays a role in shaping their avoidance of hunters.

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.

A surprising new link between inflammation and mental illness

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have discovered a mechanism that links chronic inflammation to mental illnesses like anxiety and depression. Their study suggests that anti-IFNAR drugs may be effective in reducing symptoms of CNS lupus and other related conditions.

New light shed on dynamics of type IV pili and twitching motility

Biophysicists visualized type IV pili (T4P) dynamics using optical microscopy, revealing asymmetric distribution triggered by blue light. T4P extension activated at the forward side of cells illuminated laterally with blue light, driving forward motion and navigation.

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.

Drop in violence associated with smoke-free policy at psychiatric hospital

A recent study published in The Lancet Psychiatry reveals a significant drop in physical assaults following the introduction of a smoke-free policy at a psychiatric hospital. The researchers found that smoking within hospitals often leads to worsening mental health and increased violence, but their findings challenge this assumption.

New ultrasound 'drill' targets deep vein blood clots

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new surgical tool using low-frequency intravascular ultrasound to break down blood clots. The tool breaks down clots into fine particles, reducing the need for high doses of blood thinners and potentially lowering treatment time.