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Science News Archive March 2017 - Page 39


Page 39 of 41

As reliable as your hard drive? Maximizing DNA storage

Researchers have developed a DNA storage method called DNA Fountain that approaches the theoretical maximum for DNA storage, storing 60% more data than previous efforts. The technique uses a coding approach to randomly package information and reassemble it in order, minimizing errors and allowing for reliable retrieval of stored data.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

The lord of destruction

Professor Erik Bitzek aims to investigate the interactions between cracks and material defects to improve understanding of breaking processes in metals, intermetallic compounds, and semiconductors. He seeks realistic results through micromechanical models and fracture tests to develop novel, fail-safe materials.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateMar 2, 2017

Too many patients get liver tests they don't need, which can raise fears and costs

Researchers recommend that doctors exclude common liver issues before testing for rare conditions. Directed testing means ordering tests for the most common causes of sudden severe liver issues first, followed by tests for rare, dangerous autoimmune or genetic disorders that attack livers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateMar 2, 2017

Reducing cancer-related fatigue

A meta-analysis of 113 randomized clinical trials found that exercise, psychological interventions, and their combination were effective in reducing cancer fatigue. Pharmaceutical interventions did not show the same magnitude of improvement.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

To improve our political climate, change the questions we ask

Researchers suggest using a deliberative frame in questions to promote democracy and healthy politics. The approach has shown promise in online town halls between Congress members and constituents, leading to high marks and repeated participation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

New in vitro toxicology research on health risk assessment wins PETA award

Researchers developed two new mechanistic models, Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs), to assess toxicological risk of chemicals without animal testing. The AOPs were recognized by PETA International Science Consortium for their contributions to non-animal approaches.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied In Vitro Toxicology·DateMar 2, 2017

Melting temperature of Earth's mantle depends on water

Researchers found the average temperature of Earth's mantle beneath ocean basins is about 60 degrees Celsius higher than previously thought, thanks to water in deep minerals. This discovery may change our understanding of tectonic plate movements and mantle viscosity.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

To understand others' minds, 'being' them beats reading them

New research published in Psychological Science found that simulating someone else's experience leads to greater accuracy in understanding their emotional state, not just observing their behavior. This challenge highlights the importance of empathy and strategies for better understanding others.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 2, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Research finds a majority endorsing revenge porn

Research by University of Kent psychologists finds that most people (99%) approve of revenge porn being posted online, with a link to specific psychological characteristics. The study also found a positive correlation between revenge porn proclivity and the 'Dark Triad' of psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalInternational Journal of Technoethics·DateMar 2, 2017

Research shows exercise is a boon for cancer patients

A recent study published in JAMA Oncology found that exercise alone and psychological interventions significantly reduced cancer-related fatigue. The research analyzed 113 studies involving over 11,000 patients and concluded that exercise is the most effective approach to alleviate this debilitating side effect of cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 2, 2017

Biochemical 'fossil' shows how life may have emerged without phosphate

Researchers used systems biology approaches to study the emergence of life and found that a few simple compounds could support a phosphate-free metabolism. This discovery challenges the current understanding of life's origin and suggests that an early self-sustaining metabolic network predated the emergence of nucleic acids.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 2, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Plant dominance in the Amazon is shaped by past civilizations

A new study reveals that plants domesticated by pre-Columbian peoples are more likely to dominate Amazonian forests, with 85 species showing significant impacts from past human influence. The research suggests a lasting impact of human activities on plant distribution and could aid in uncovering unidentified areas of past civilization.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Ancient peoples shaped the Amazon rainforest

A new study suggests that ancient peoples domesticated tree species thousands of years ago, which are now more common in mature upland forests. The research found that a quarter of these domesticated species dominate large expanses of forest and are vital for the livelihood and economy of Amazonian peoples.

SourceField Museum·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Cigarette smoke curbs lung's self-healing

Researchers discovered that cigarette smoke silences the lung's natural self-healing process by blocking key receptors. Increasing these receptors can restore repair and lead to increased production of vital proteins, offering new hope for developing therapies for COPD patients.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 2, 2017

Ancient peoples shaped the Amazon rainforest

A new study reveals that pre-Colombian peoples played a significant role in shaping modern-day Amazonian biodiversity. The research found that 85 domesticated tree species, including cacao and Brazil nut, were five times more common in forests near ancient settlements.

SourceNaturalis Biodiversity Center·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

Physical therapy proves as effective as surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome

A new study published in JOSPT found that physical therapy achieved results comparable to surgery outcomes for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients treated with physical therapy showed faster improvements and similar benefits at one year following treatment.

SourceJOSPT, Inc. d/b/a Movement Science Media·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy·DateMar 2, 2017

Ecological Society of America announces 2017 award recipients

The Ecological Society of America recognizes Diana Harrison Wall, Kathleen Weathers, and Debra Peters with the Eminent Ecologist Award, Eugene P. Odum Award for Excellence in Ecology Education, and Distinguished Service Citation, respectively, for their outstanding contributions to ecology.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateMar 2, 2017

Cause of killer cardiac disease identified by new method

Researchers have developed a new non-invasive method to identify the origin of atrial fibrillation, a type of abnormal heart rhythm that increases the risk of stroke and other complications. The technique uses 64-lead electrocardiogram signals to pinpoint the location of the irregular heartbeat.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 2, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Most complex nanoparticle crystal ever made by design

Scientists at Northwestern University and University of Michigan report creating the most complex nanoparticle crystal ever made, with potential applications in controlling light, capturing pollutants, and delivering therapeutics. The crystal structure was achieved through a combination of DNA technology and controlled nanoparticle shape.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Saving brain cells from stroke

Researchers discovered a neuroprotective compound that reduces brain cell loss and boosts newborn neurons after stroke. The P7C3-A20 compound improves physical balance, coordination, learning, and memory in rats.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalExperimental Neurology·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

Study finds not all women get appropriate care for cervical cancer

A study found that fewer than three out of five women with locally advanced cervical cancer received guideline-based care, with black and Hispanic women receiving lower rates. Despite an increase in guideline-based care over time, disparities persist, highlighting the need for further investigation into barriers to treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 2, 2017

Horse-riding can improve children's cognitive ability

Recent research published in Frontiers in Public Health found that horseback riding enhances learning and problem-solving skills in children. The study, led by Professor Mitsuaki Ohta, suggests that the vibrations produced by horses during riding activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to improved cognitive performance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateMar 2, 2017

Hand-picked specialty crops 'ripe' for precision agriculture techniques

Researchers have developed a mathematical model to determine the optimal time for transporting strawberry crops, reducing spoilage and increasing market value. The findings suggest that precision agriculture techniques can be applied to high-value fresh produce, motivating growers to explore new opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNatural Resource Modeling·DateMar 2, 2017

Researchers can predict terrorist behaviors with more than 90 percent accuracy

Researchers at Binghamton University developed a Networked Pattern Recognition Framework to analyze patterns in past attacks and predict future behaviors. The framework achieves over 90% accuracy in identifying attack characteristics, extending attacks, multiple attacks, and terrorist goals.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

Shape-shifting molecular robots respond to DNA signals

Researchers developed a molecular robot that changes shape in response to specific DNA signals, enabling biomimetic robotics and potential medical innovations. The tiny robot, about 1 millionth of a meter in size, consists of protein and DNA molecules.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 2, 2017

Taking earth's inner temperature

Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution suggest the mantle could be 60°C hotter than estimated, affecting tectonic plate movement and ocean basin formation. This finding may help explain the formation of the seafloor and the movement of rigid plates.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Genome editing: Pressing the 'delete' button on DNA

A new software tool, CRISPETa, has been developed to efficiently delete non-coding DNA in living cells using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the genomic basis of disease and may lead to discovery of new disease-causing genes and potential new drugs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

AI system beats humans at the poker table, in complex game

Researchers created an AI system called DeepStack that outperforms human players in heads-up no-limit poker by leveraging asymmetrical information about the game state. The system solves approximately 10^7 decision points in 5 seconds, enabling potential advances in real-world problems involving information asymmetry.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Woolly mammoths experienced a genomic meltdown just before extinction

Researchers compared the genomes of a 45,000-year-old mainland mammoth with one from Wrangel Island, which had only 300 animals. The analysis revealed an excess of genetic defects, including loss of olfactory receptors and urinary proteins. This study provides insights into the effects of small population sizes on genome deterioration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 2, 2017

Aging faces could increase security risks

Researchers found that 99% of face images can still be recognized up to six years later, but accuracy drops if images are taken more than six years apart. The study emphasizes the importance of capturing new images every four to five years to reduce false positives.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

Skulls inform biology of predecessors of modern humans in Eastern Eurasia

The discovery of two ancient skulls in central China provides a unique glimpse into the biology of early humans in the region. The skulls, dated to around 100,000 years ago, exhibit a mix of features from different human populations, suggesting regional interconnectedness and population continuity across Eastern Eurasia.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

War less likely between nations that are 'friends of friends'

A new study found that nations with indirect alliances are less likely to engage in major conflicts. The probability of conflict between neighboring countries decreases as the degree of separation increases, reaching a low of 3-4% for those within three degrees of each other.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 1, 2017
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.

Toward a safer permanent hair dye that mimics melanin

Researchers created a potentially safer alternative to common hair dye ingredient PPD by mimicking melanin using polydopamine. The new dye lasts through multiple wash cycles without causing noticeable side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateMar 1, 2017

Yale-led team puts dark matter on the map

A Yale-led team has created one of the highest-resolution maps of dark matter ever produced, providing a detailed case for its existence. The map, derived from Hubble Space Telescope Frontier Fields data, closely matches theoretical predictions and offers insights into the universe's structure and galaxy formation.

SourceYale University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 1, 2017
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.

Intestinal bacteria alter gut and brain function: McMaster study

A McMaster University study found that intestinal bacteria impact both intestinal and behavioral symptoms in IBS patients, potentially leading to new microbiota-directed therapies. The study also suggests a possible link between gut bacteria and other brain disorders such as autism, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 1, 2017

Exploring the cause of chronic lung transplant rejection, in a quest to stop it

A new study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that cells from lung transplant patients with bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) can become activated and promote scarring. The team identified a chain of upstream signals starting with autotaxin, an enzyme that generates lysophosphatidic acid, which stimulates collagen production.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2017

Rapid changes point to origin of ultra-fast black hole 'burps'

Scientists have observed rapid temperature changes in ultra-fast black hole winds, which are responding to X-ray emissions from the accretion disk. This discovery provides clues for locating the origin of these outflows and their connection to galaxy formation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateMar 1, 2017
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.

The shifting rationales for vaping

A new long-term study harnesses social media data to understand the reasons people vape, shifting away from cessation to social image. The study found that misinformation drives some vapers' rationales for using e-cigarettes.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 1, 2017

Are market bubbles caused by traders' testosterone levels?

Research by Ben-Gurion University finds that men's psychological momentum, driven by testosterone increases after success, leads to exaggerated risk-taking in financial markets. This can create price bubbles. The study suggests that increasing women in financial markets may help stabilize these markets.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·DateMar 1, 2017
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.