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Science News Archive March 2017


Page 30 of 41

RNA and longevity: Discovering the mechanisms behind aging

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology have discovered the critical role of RNA quality control mechanism NMD in longevity of C. elegans. Decreased NMD activity and downregulated yars-2 gene contribute to long lifespan, suggesting its potential in combating age-related diseases.

NIH-funded study helps explain how zebrafish recover from blinding injuries

Researchers discovered that decreased levels of neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) trigger the retina to produce stem cells in zebrafish, shedding light on retinal regeneration. The finding informs efforts to restore vision in people who are blind and has implications for regenerative medicine.

Researchers hone in on when, where Zika virus attacks

A study published in the Public Library of Science Pathogens found that Zika virus targets neuronal, lymph, joint, muscle and genital/urinary/reproductive tissues, persisting for at least 35 days. The research provides insights into the growth and distribution of the virus in human tissues.

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.

OU professor receives NSF Early CAREER award

The OU professor's research will integrate with educational and outreach programs for American Indian students, emphasizing the importance of sustainable energy. The study aims to quantify the role of catalytically active sites in biomass conversion processes.

Improving symptom tracking in multiple sclerosis

Researchers at UMass Amherst are creating an improved diagnostic test to help track symptoms and diagnose patients with progressive multiple sclerosis. The two-year project aims to detect subtle changes in sensory and motor function, enabling early treatments to slow disability progression.

Hard choices? Ask your brain's dopamine

Researchers at Salk Institute find that changing dopamine levels can alter upcoming choices, suggesting new avenues for treating Parkinson's and OCD. The study uses advanced techniques to measure dopamine concentration in mice brains, revealing a tight association between brain chemistry and decision-making.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Researchers sound alarm over Zika's potentially harmful heart effects

A small case report suggests that Zika-linked birth defects may only be 'tip of the iceberg' when it comes to cardiovascular complications. Eight of nine patients developed dangerous arrhythmias and six experienced heart failure, with symptoms manifesting on average 10 days after initial complaints.

Marijuana use associated with increased risk of stroke, heart failure

A study published by the American College of Cardiology found that marijuana use is associated with a higher risk of stroke and heart failure. Even after accounting for other health conditions and lifestyle risk factors, marijuana use was independently linked to a 26% increase in stroke risk and a 10% increase in heart failure risk.

Perovskite edges can be tuned for optoelectronic performance

Researchers have developed layered 2D hybrid perovskites with nanometer thickness, improving optoelectronic performance for efficient devices. The discovery of layer-edge-states at the edges of perovskite layers enables uninhibited charge transport and enhances photovoltaic and light-emitting properties.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

China faces science reform challenges, including favoritism

Despite recent reforms aimed at improving China's research institutions and innovation system, concerns remain about the autonomy of resulting committees and institutions. Favoritism among researchers, influenced by social connections, also poses a significant challenge in science policy.

Volcano breath: Measuring sulfur dioxide from space

Researchers have found that volcanoes collectively emit significant amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, which is easier to detect from space. Human activities also emit large quantities of sulfur dioxide, but are declining in many countries due to pollution controls.

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.

Iran and Middle East could adopt fully renewable electricity systems

Researchers at Lappeenranta University of Technology found that a fully renewable electricity system in Iran could reduce costs by 50-60% compared to other emission-free energy options. The transition requires significant investments in solar, wind, and hydropower but can drive economic growth and reduce emissions.

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.

Asthmatics less able to fight off flu

Researchers found that asthmatics have weaker immune systems, leading to more severe flu symptoms. The study analyzed lung samples from asthmatic and healthy individuals, showing a stronger immune response in healthy volunteers.

Investment key in adapting to climate change in West Africa

A new study suggests that investing in agriculture can improve food production and regional productivity, but also risks expanding agricultural land into natural forests. The region's future development will have profound implications for millions of people.

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.

'Blurred times' in a quantum world

Researchers demonstrate that clocks placed next to each other necessarily disturb each other, causing a universal limitation on measuring time. This effect is independent of clock mechanism or material, highlighting the need to re-examine our ideas about time in both quantum mechanics and general relativity.

Using nature to build nanomachines

Researchers at Osaka University used electron cryomicroscopy to study flagellar motors, revealing that small changes in amino acids can significantly impact function. The discovery provides insight into constructing synthetic nanomachines with similar properties.

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.

Could fast radio bursts be powering alien probes?

New research suggests that fast radio bursts might be evidence of advanced alien technology, powering interstellar probes in distant galaxies. A study found that a planet-sized transmitter could generate the needed energy to make such detection possible.

Potential drug candidates halt prostate and breast cancer growth

Scientists have designed two new drug candidates that target specific types of cancer by binding to defective RNAs. The compounds, called Targapremir-18a and Targapremir-210, successfully kill prostate and triple negative breast cancer cells without causing broader side effects.

Study describes potential clinical test and treatment for preterm birth

Researchers discovered a molecular signaling receptor, type I Interferon receptor (IFNAR), that fuels production of pro-inflammatory cytokines during secondary inflammatory challenge, inducing preterm birth. Testing in mouse models and human tissues found that genetic deletion or inhibition of IFNAR prevents preterm birth.

Why do we develop high blood pressure?

A study on rat models found changes in brain activity and blood flow early in life, potentially linked to hypertension. The researchers suggest that these changes could be a cause of high blood pressure, paving the way for potential prevention strategies.

RAND study examines 200 real-world 'zero-day' software vulnerabilities

A new RAND Corporation study analyzes over 200 real-world zero-day software vulnerabilities, establishing initial baseline metrics that can augment other studies. The research finds that zero-day vulnerabilities have an average life expectancy of 6.9 years, making public disclosure a moderate level of protection.

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 NHS safety investigator must become fully independent body

The Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB) will investigate serious risks to patient safety across the healthcare system, publicly reporting findings and issuing recommendations for improvement. The HSIB's independence is crucial to build an authoritative system-wide view of safety issues.

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.

Aboriginal hair shows 50,000 years connection to country

A study published in Nature found that Aboriginal populations have been continuously present in the same regions for up to 50,000 years, supporting their cultural connection to country. The research analyzed mitochondrial DNA from hair samples collected during anthropological expeditions across Australia and revealed a single founding ...

Increasing minimum wage would reduce teen pregnancies

A new study by Indiana University researchers found that increasing the minimum wage would likely reduce the US adolescent birth rate by about 2%. This translates to approximately 5,000 fewer births annually. Higher wages can motivate teens to work and delay childbearing or prioritize leisure time over parenthood.

Iota Orionis: Pulsating beacon of a constellation

Researchers have discovered a repeating one-per-cent spike in the light of Iota Orionis, a binary star system with a mass 35 times that of the Sun. The unusual variation is caused by the gravitational interaction between the two stars, triggering quakes that allow astronomers to probe the star's inner workings.

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.

Tooth loss linked to an increased risk of dementia

A study of 1566 community-dwelling Japanese elderly found elevated dementia risks in individuals with fewer remaining teeth. Individuals with 10-19 and no teeth had significantly higher risks compared to those with more teeth.

Researchers observe reduction in sexual violence among high school students

A recent study by University of Kentucky researchers found a 12-13% lower rate of sexual violence victimization in schools that implemented the Green Dot program, resulting in 120 fewer sexually violent events. The five-year program, funded by CDC and partnering with local organizations, was shown to be cost-effective and culturally im...

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.

Playing Pokémon Go may help people reach 10,000 daily steps goal

Research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions found that playing Pokémon Go can increase daily steps by nearly 2,000 steps per day. Participants who were overweight or obese benefited most from the game, walking approximately 3,000 additional steps each day.

Pro-pot arguments fly higher with likely voters

A recent study found that over 60% of people support legalization due to increased tax revenues, job creation, and reduced prison crowding. In contrast, anti-legalization arguments emphasizing public health concerns received less support.

Eyes hold clues to future narrowing of leg vessels

Researchers found that tiny blood vessels in the eye may predict a higher risk of later narrowing in large blood vessels in the legs. Study participants with retinal abnormalities had a 2.16 times greater risk of developing peripheral artery disease (PAD) and a 3.41 times greater risk of critical limb ischemia (CLI).

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.

Paper pumps power portable microfluidics, biomedical devices

Biomedical engineers at North Carolina State University have created affordable paper pumps using capillary action that power portable microfluidic devices. These devices hold promise for use in applications ranging from diagnostics to drug testing, offering advantages such as portability, low cost, and disposability.

Why do shorter men go bald more often?

A study by the University of Bonn found that shorter men have an increased risk of becoming bald prematurely, linked to genetic alterations in the human genome. The research identified 63 genes that increase the risk of premature hair loss, often accompanied by other characteristics and illnesses.

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.

Diet and global climate change

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers found that adopting healthier diets could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower healthcare costs. The study's results show a significant impact on climate change mitigation through the food system and healthcare systems.