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Science News Archive March 2017


Page 23 of 41

New eyeless, pale catfish from middle of Amazon named

A new species of eyeless catfish has been discovered in the Amazon River, with a unique adaptation to dark environments. The Xyliphius sofiae specimen is relatively small and pale, but well-adapted to its murky habitat, where it likely feeds on micro-invertebrates.

Predicting long-term cognitive decline following delirium

Researchers have discovered a way to predict long-term cognitive decline after postoperative delirium by analyzing pre-surgery cognitive function in patients. Those with higher cognitive scores before delirium are less likely to experience cognitive decline afterwards.

Relativistic electrons uncovered with NASA's Van Allen Probes

New observations from NASA's Van Allen Probes mission show that relativistic electrons, the fastest and most energetic particles in the inner radiation belt, are not present as much of the time as previously assumed. This discovery has significant implications for spacecraft design and opens up new avenues for scientific study.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Scientists identify a black hole choking on stardust

Researchers discovered a supermassive black hole 'choking' on stellar debris, producing small fluctuations in the energy emitted by the flare. The study provides insight into how black holes grow and evolve, offering a potential window into hidden black holes.

NASA spots sub-tropical storm 11S still swirling

Sub-tropical storm 11S, once a tropical cyclone, continues to swirl in the Southern Indian Ocean with asymmetric structure and baroclinic dynamic support. The disturbance is expected to further strengthen as it moves southward, transitioning into an extra-tropical system.

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.

Optical fingerprint can reveal pollutants in the air

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology propose a novel sensor method to detect molecules with ultra-thin nanomaterials, offering improved sensitivity and selectivity for environmental gas detection. The proposed sensors can identify pollutants by altering their optical fingerprint when exposed to molecules.

Imagining dialogue can boost critical thinking

A new study found that students who engaged in a dialogue about two mayoral candidates created better-written persuasive essays and TV scripts. They also showed a more sophisticated understanding of knowledge, constructing opposing views leads to a richer representation of each and the differences between them.

Baycrest creates first Canadian Brain Health Food Guide for adults

The Brain Health Food Guide provides evidence-based dietary advice for older adults, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Research suggests that following this guide can decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease by 36% and mild cognitive impairment by 27%.

Dissection of the 2015 Bonin deep earthquake

Researchers at Tohoku University used seismic tomography to image the three-dimensional structure of the Earth's interior, shedding new light on the deep Bonin deep earthquake. The study found that the Pacific slab is split and penetrated the lower mantle, with multiple factors contributing to its occurrence.

The way the brain processes speech could serve as a predictor of early dementia

Researchers have discovered a new potential predictor of early dementia through abnormal brain activity in older adults with no noticeable communication problems. Brain regions that process speech were found to be more resilient to Alzheimer's disease, but showed changes that predicted mild cognitive impairment and dementia.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Older women taking statins face higher risk of diabetes

A University of Queensland study found that older Australian women taking cholesterol-lowering statins face a significantly increased risk of developing diabetes. The risk was highest for those taking higher doses of statins, with a 50% increase in the likelihood of new-onset diabetes.

Novel mechanism that detains mobile genes in plant genome

A team of scientists has identified a previously unknown mechanism that keeps transposable elements from causing harm by detaining them at the cell membrane. This discovery opens up new avenues for research on similar mechanisms in other organisms.

Foreign graduate students and postdocs consider leaving the US

A second executive order has prompted foreign graduate students and postdoctoral researchers to look elsewhere for educational and job opportunities in the US. The move has raised concerns about the future prospects of these students and the impact on US competitiveness in science and engineering.

Female cyberbullies and victims feel the most negative about school and learning

A recent study published in Sex Roles found that female cyberbullies and victims perceive school and learning as less important after experiencing online harassment. Researchers discovered that girls who engaged in cyberbullying felt the least accepted by their peers, which negatively impacted their attitudes towards education.

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.

Hepatitis C mutations 'outrun' immune systems, lab study shows

A lab study identifies mutations in hepatitis C virus that evade the natural immune system and vaccines, highlighting a major barrier to vaccine development. Researchers found that these mutations occur outside of traditional vaccine targets and confer resistance to commonly used antibodies.

Age not a factor in success of shoulder replacement surgery

A recent Henry Ford Health study suggests that age is not a factor in the success of shoulder replacement surgery. The research analyzed data from patients under 65 and those older than 75 with osteoarthritis, finding that both groups experienced significant improvement in shoulder function after surgery.

Marine recovery after mass extinction was likely delayed by further biotic crises

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that marine recovery after the late Permian mass extinction was likely delayed by subsequent biotic crises. The researchers found that extinction rates of marine invertebrates peaked twice during the early Triassic, and ecological diversity increased only after a relaxation of environmental stresses.

Study clusters health behavior groups to broaden public health interventions

A new study identified seven health behavior patterns based on smoking status, alcohol use, physical activity, physician visits and flu vaccination, which are associated with mortality. The research highlights the importance of considering behavioral decisions across multiple behaviors to create more effective interventions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Better barcoding: New library of DNA sequences improves plant identification

A new database of genetic information, developed by researchers at Emory University, has improved the accuracy of plant identification using DNA sequencing technologies. The new library uses the rbcL gene, a popular barcode in plants, to identify species from tiny amounts of material, enabling faster and more accurate analysis.

New electron source for materials analysis

Researchers at Jülich's Peter Grünberg Institute have created a new method for high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS) that allows for fast and efficient measurements. This innovation enables scientists to investigate unstable or sensitive samples, paving the way for breakthroughs in materials analysis.

The looming threat of Asian tobacco companies to global health

Researchers found Asian tobacco companies are shifting from domestic focus to transnational expansion through government support, manufacturing for export, and new product development. This shift is expected to lead to a further increase in tobacco-related deaths worldwide, totaling six million annually.

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.

Fighting MRSA with new membrane-busting compounds

Researchers have developed a new class of compounds called lysine-conjugated aliphatic norspermidine analogues (LANAs) that effectively kill certain bacteria, including MRSA. Testing on mice showed that the compounds can eliminate MRSA skin infections with no signs of acute toxicity or resistance development.

Zebrafish without stripes

Dowling-Degos disease patients with PSENEN gene mutations display unusual pigment cell behavior in zebrafish, leading to similar skin patterns. The discovery provides new insights into the causes of acne inversa and its link to the genetic disorder.

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.

Study quantifies effect of 'legacy phosphorus' in reduced water quality

A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison reveals that abundant soil phosphorus in the Yahara watershed has a direct and long-lasting impact on water quality. Eliminating overabundance of phosphorus could improve lake and river quality by reducing summertime phosphorus concentrations.

Breathtaking gene discovery in Dalmatian dogs

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified a novel gene associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in Dalmatian dogs. The gene study found that the disorder results from a defect in an anillin protein which binds to actin, leading to abnormal regeneration capacity of the bronchiolar epithelium.

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.

High rate of return to running following arthroscopic hip surgery

Research shows that arthroscopic hip surgery is effective in improving running ability, with 96% of recreational and competitive runners returning to their sport within nine months. However, increasing BMI and longer time without running prior to surgery are associated with slower recovery.

Spiders eat 400-800 million tons of prey every year

Zoologists at the University of Basel and Lund University found that spiders kill an enormous number of insects worldwide, with estimates ranging from 400-800 million tons per year. This has significant implications for maintaining ecological balance in nature.

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.

Rethinking the use of warnings with transcript and video evidence in trials

A study by the University of Liverpool found that providing a judicial warning when presenting transcript and video evidence to jurors improves their assessment of witness reliability. The research suggests that warnings are necessary in some cases, such as when video evidence is presented alone, and can help jurors consider the credib...

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.

Most atrial fibrillation patients don't get preventive drug before stroke

A study of over 94,000 patients with atrial fibrillation found that only 16% received recommended anticoagulation therapy prior to stroke. Patients who did receive treatment had less severe stroke outcomes and lower mortality rates. Adherence to guidelines could prevent up to 88,000 strokes per year in the US

Topical curcumin gel effective in treating burns and scalds

Research published in BioDiscovery found that topical curcumin gel significantly reduces burn and scald severity, lessens pain, and improves healing with minimal scarring. Dr. Madalene Heng's study suggests curcumin's anti-inflammatory activity is key to its effectiveness.

Money, not access, key to resident food choices in 'food deserts'

A new study finds that financial resources are the primary factor limiting diet choices in so-called 'food deserts', where residents often have to travel long distances and spend more time and money to shop at supermarkets. The study suggests that improving affordability is crucial to addressing public health concerns in these areas.

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.

In times of plenty, penguin parents keep feeding their grown offspring

In a study published in The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, researchers found that fully grown Galapagos penguins who have fledged from their nests continue to beg for food from their parents. This post-fledging parental care is thought to be an adaptation to the fluctuating availability of food in the Galapagos archipelago.

IU Center for Aging Research develops novel ICU delirium severity assessment tool

Researchers at IU Center for Aging Research have developed a novel easy-to-administer tool to score and track delirium severity in the ICU, enabling clinicians to make better decisions about the brain health of ICU patients. The Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit 7 (CAM-ICU-7) scores delirium on a scale of 0 to 7 a...

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

What makes farmers try new practices?

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that educated networkers and young innovators are most likely to adopt multifunctional perennial cropping systems. These groups are motivated by environmental concerns and the potential for high-value products. On the other hand, farmers classified as 'money motivated' and 'hands-off'...

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.

Researchers create model of anorexia nervosa using stem cells

A team of scientists at the University of California San Diego has created a cellular model of anorexia nervosa using induced pluripotent stem cells, revealing a potential genetic link to the disease. The study identified a novel gene, TACR1, that may contribute to the development of eating disorders.

New nano-implant could one day help restore sight

A team of engineers developed a nanotechnology-based retinal prosthesis that mimics the retina's light-sensing cones to directly stimulate retinal cells. The device, powered wirelessly, has shown promising results in animal tests, bringing researchers closer to restoring functional vision in patients with severe retinal degeneration.

Imaging at the speed of light

Scientists have developed a technique to visualize the complete evolution of micro- and nanostructure formation on a material's surface. This allows for better control over these structures, which are crucial for improving various technologies such as anti-corrosive materials, energy absorbers, and medical instrumentation.

Cooking at home tonight? It's likely cheaper and healthier, study finds

Researchers found that cooking at home more often is associated with a greater dietary compliance and a lower risk of unhealthy eating. The study showed no increase in costs for eating a healthier diet, challenging common assumptions about income and education. Home-cooked meals were linked to diets lower in calories, sugar, and fat.

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