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Science News Archive November 2017 - Page 41


Page 41 of 42

An early Christmas present: Scientists have unwrapped the reindeer genome

A team of Chinese researchers has sequenced and analyzed the reindeer genome, revealing unique features such as a smaller genome size and 335 genes specific to the species. The findings provide valuable resources for understanding the processes of evolution, domestication, and adaptation to extreme environments.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalGigaScience·DateNov 1, 2017

UM scientist awarded grant aimed to increase aquaculture production in the US

University of Miami Professor Daniel Benetti has been awarded a $967,000 grant from NOAA to develop hatchery technology for three economically important marine fish species. The project aims to create an affordable supply of seed for commercial producers, relieving pressure on wild stocks without negative economic impacts.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateNov 1, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Survey findings: 4 in 10 healthcare professionals work while sick

A survey of 1,914 healthcare professionals found that four in 10 opt to work while experiencing influenza-like illness, putting patients at risk. Hospital-based providers are among the most likely to do so, highlighting the need for updated paid sick leave policies and tailored strategies to promote healthy choices.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateNov 1, 2017

Treatment for dogs alleviates fear of noisy fireworks

A study published in Veterinary Record shows that dexmedetomidine gel significantly reduces behaviors related to fear and anxiety in dogs during fireworks displays. The treatment has been found to be safe and effective, with 72% of dogs showing good or excellent treatment effect.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateNov 1, 2017

PARP inhibitor may be effective against some TNBC lacking BRCA mutations

Researchers found that PARP inhibitor talazoparib caused regression of patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) lacking BRCA mutations. The study suggests that PARP inhibitors may be effective in selected patients with other alterations in DNA damage repair genes.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 1, 2017

Oregon team says physics explains protein unpredictability

University of Oregon researchers used computer simulations to study the evolution of proteins and found that basic physical limitations make uncertainty the norm. The team's findings confirm what many people in the field have observed: unpredictability is universal in biological systems.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 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.

It is time for a concerted European approach to defeat cancer

The European Society for Medical Oncology advocates for a unified and comprehensive cancer research program across Europe. Key findings include the urgent need for integrated cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment targets.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateNov 1, 2017

Babies can use context to look for things, study demonstrates

A new study demonstrates that babies can learn, remember and use contextual cues in a scene to guide their search for objects of interest. The study found that 6-month-old babies showed steady improvement in finding faces in repeated scenes, but didn't get any quicker or more accurate in finding faces in new scenes.

SourceBrown University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateNov 1, 2017

NASA investigates invisible magnetic bubbles in outer solar system

NASA has launched a fleet of missions to study the planets in our solar system, revealing unique features of each planet's magnetosphere. Earth's and other magnetospheres deflect charged particles away from the planet, but also trap energetic particles in radiation belts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 1, 2017

Zebra 'poo science' improves conservation efforts

Researchers used 'poo science' to analyze glucocorticoid hormones in Cape mountain zebra droppings, revealing chronic stress impacting their health and reproduction. The study identified seven populations with distinct profiles, enabling conservationists to identify at-risk populations and evaluate the effectiveness of conservation plans.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateNov 1, 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.

Almost half of those who resolve a problem with drugs or alcohol do so without assistance

A study from the Recovery Research Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital found that almost 9% of respondents to a national survey indicate overcoming a serious problem with drugs or alcohol. Most who resolved their issues (54%) used some form of assistance, such as mutual self-help groups or professional medical treatment.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateNov 1, 2017

One year results from the REDUCE trial reported at TCT 2017

The REDUCE trial found no difference in all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis between three and 12 months of DAPT. Major bleeding rates were similar among treatment arms, but overall mortality rates differed slightly at 1.9% vs 0.8%

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateNov 1, 2017

Luck plays a role in how language evolves, Penn team finds

A team of linguists and evolutionary biologists found certain linguistic changes occurred due to selective forces, while others were guided by chance. The study analyzed substantial collections of annotated texts and identified patterns where random chance affected rare words more than common ones.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2017
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.

Brexit fallout: An uncertain future for academic scientists

The UK's exit from the EU has led to uncertainties in future policies and funding for research enterprise and science-related higher education. Many researchers worry about accessing grant money and collaborating with EU partners.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 1, 2017

Chimpanzees shown spontaneously 'taking turns' to solve number puzzle

A new study shows that chimpanzees can work together without external cues to complete a number sequencing task, demonstrating advanced coordination skills. Young chimpanzees showed higher accuracy and speed in taking turns, while mothers were faster individually, highlighting asymmetry in information transmission.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 1, 2017

Brain tumour's 'addiction' to common amino acid could be its weakness

Researchers found that a diet low in glutamine can enhance chemotherapy's effectiveness and increase life span in mice with medulloblastoma. The study offers hope for improved treatments for childhood brain tumors, which are often associated with significant side effects.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 1, 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.

Co-parenting after the end of a violent marriage: What does the first year look like?

A recent study by researchers at the University of Illinois found that women who experienced coercive controlling violence in their marriages continued to experience higher levels of harassment, conflict, and volatility from their former partners during the first year. In contrast, women who experienced situational couple violence saw ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateNov 1, 2017

A quarter of problematic cannabis users have anxiety disorders, many since childhood

Researchers found that nearly three-quarters of participants didn't develop problems with marijuana during young adulthood. The remaining quarter showed varying levels of limited, persistent, and delayed problems, often linked to childhood family conflict and instability. Anxiety disorders were a common issue among these users.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateNov 1, 2017

The fingerprints of coastal carbon sinks

Researchers have developed a new technique, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), to accurately measure soil carbon levels in coastal wetlands like mangrove forests. This method has higher accuracy and is non-toxic, fast, and inexpensive, making it suitable for large-scale monitoring.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateNov 1, 2017

BU finds marijuana use associated with cognitive dysfunction in people with HIV

Research at Boston University School of Medicine found that frequent marijuana use is associated with cognitive dysfunction in people with HIV who have an alcohol or other drug use disorder. The study suggests that marijuana may have detrimental effects on cognitive function in this population, particularly as they age.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalSubstance Abuse·DateNov 1, 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.

How songbirds learn a new song

Researchers found that songbirds break down the complex task of learning a new song into manageable parts, using a strategy similar to computer algorithms. This approach allows them to adapt their songs with minimal effort and expand their repertoire.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2017

Riding the bike to work is just as effective as leisure time exercise

Researchers from University of Copenhagen find that cycling to and from work is just as effective in reducing fat mass as moderate- or high-intensity leisure-time exercise. The study involved 130 overweight participants who cycled, exercised, or did neither for six months, with significant weight loss found in all groups.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateNov 1, 2017

Molybdenum in Wisconsin wells not from coal ash

Researchers from Duke University and Ohio State University found that high levels of molybdenum in Wisconsin drinking water wells come from natural sources, not coal ash. The study used forensic isotopic 'fingerprinting' and age-dating techniques to determine the contamination's origin.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 1, 2017

Close friends linked to a sharper memory

A new study found that SuperAgers -- people aged 80+ with exceptional cognitive ability -- report more satisfying relationships compared to their peers. This association suggests that maintaining strong social networks may be linked to slower cognitive decline.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 1, 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.

Rutgers-led research could revolutionize nuclear waste reprocessing and save money

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed an extremely efficient molecular trap that can capture radioactive iodides in spent nuclear reactor fuel, far outperforming existing industrial materials. The material has high porosity and can be recycled and reused, making it a potential game-changer for nuclear waste reprocessing.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2017

Scientists trace the stem cells that repopulate bone marrow after transplantation

Researchers have identified a distinct subset of hematopoietic stem cells capable of fully repopulating the bone marrow after transplantation. These cells, marked by specific surface markers, were found to be essential for successful bone marrow transplantation in nonhuman primates and show promise for human applications.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 1, 2017

Vitamin E discovery in maize could lead to more nutritious crop

New research has identified genes controlling vitamin E content in maize grain, a finding that could lead to improving the nutritional profile of this staple crop. Six genes were discovered to encode proteins contributing to antioxidant compounds called tocochromanols, also known as vitamin E.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateNov 1, 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.

Alcohol makes rats more vulnerable to compulsive cocaine use

A new study found that prior alcohol exposure enhances cocaine-seeking behavior in rats, promoting degradation of HDAC4 and HDAC5 proteins. This breakdown creates a permissive environment for cocaine-induced gene expression, increasing vulnerability to compulsive use.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 1, 2017

Understanding addiction in the adolescent mind

Researchers have developed a new method using synthetic DNA aptamers to measure cocaine's effect on the brain in real-time with high resolution. The study aims to answer whether age-related differences are due to neuron sensitivity or drug concentration in specific brain areas.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateNov 1, 2017

Is he really that into you?

Women who experienced painful father-child relationships perceive greater mating intent in men and exhibit increased sexual arousal when viewing male faces. This study highlights the potential for early childhood experiences to shape adult mating behavior and increase the likelihood of engaging in unrestricted or risky sexual activity.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 1, 2017

New Greenland maps show more glaciers at risk

Researchers have created high-resolution maps of Greenland's bedrock and coastal seafloor, showing that two to four times more glacier fronts are at risk of accelerated melting than previously thought. The new data suggests that warmer ocean water is melting deeper-seated glaciers, potentially increasing sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 1, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Your bones affect your appetite -- and your metabolism!

A recent study discovered that a bone hormone called osteocalcin regulates appetite and energy expenditure. Researchers found that removing an enzyme responsible for activating osteocalcin reduced mice's appetite and increased blood glucose levels.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2017

From quantum physicist to quantum CEO

Q-Ctrl, founded by University of Sydney's Professor Michael Biercuk, aims to provide trusted quantum control solutions for various industries. The company has attracted multimillion-dollar investments and is focused on reducing qubit errors to improve the performance of quantum devices.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateNov 1, 2017

Researchers find low genetic diversity in domestic ferrets

Researchers discovered low genetic diversity in domestic ferrets globally, making them more susceptible to diseases and disorders. The study highlights the importance of incorporating genetically diverse ferrets from other countries into breeding programs to minimize inbreeding and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateNov 1, 2017

Penn researchers demonstrate how to control liquid crystal patterns

Researchers at Penn University have demonstrated the ability to control liquid crystal patterns, which could be useful in creating patchy colloids and microscopic particles with functionalized surfaces. The study was led by Lisa Tran and Randall Kamien and has potential applications in biosensing and energy harvesting.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPhysical Review X·DateNov 1, 2017
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.

Phase 1 study shows encouraging data for gene replacement therapy for SMA type I

A Phase 1 clinical trial has demonstrated encouraging data for gene replacement therapy in patients with spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1). The study found that high-dose gene therapy improved motor function and reduced the need for supportive care in patients treated with a single intravenous infusion.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2017

Invasive weevil threatens California's palm trees and date industry

The invasive South American palm weevil is killing California's iconic palm trees and threatening the state's $89 million-per-year date industry. Researchers are developing semiochemical formulations to monitor and control populations in an effective, economical, and environmentally-friendly manner.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateNov 1, 2017

New tissue-engineered blood vessel replacements one step closer to human trials

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have created lab-grown blood vessel replacements that are non-living yet can be repopulated with cells by the recipient's own cells. The grafts performed well in a recent study with adult baboons, showing healthy cell growth and resistance to infection.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 1, 2017
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.

Hacking evolution, screening technique may improve most widespread enzyme

Researchers identified an improved form of the enzyme Rubisco, which can enhance carbon dioxide-fixation kinetics. The new screening strategy enabled the discovery of 11 mutations that increased efficiency, with potential applications in crops and sustainable food production.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 1, 2017

Transgender women take triple the number of HIV tests as trans men

A new study from the University at Buffalo found that transgender women, African-Americans, and Hispanics are more likely to receive HIV testing than trans men, whites, or those with stable housing. The research aimed to identify barriers to HIV testing in urban transgender individuals.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalTransgender Health·DateNov 1, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Are some natural environments more psychologically beneficial than others?

A new study reveals that spending time in rural and coastal locations has a greater positive impact on psychological well-being compared to urban green spaces. Visits to natural areas with protected status and longer durations are associated with stronger emotional connections and improved mental health.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateNov 1, 2017

Solving of a decade-long mystery could help in fight against TB

Researchers identified two key proteins that allow mycobacterium tuberculosis to evade cell destruction, leading to potential new anti-microbial strategies. Deleting these proteins could inhibit repair mechanisms, making TB more susceptible to treatment.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2017

Why do some obese people have 'healthier' fat tissue than others?

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that some obese adults store their body fat more healthily than others, breaking down fat at slower rates and having fewer inflammatory cells. Aerobic exercise may lead to healthier fat storage, with regular exercisers showing increased blood vessels in their fat tissue.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateNov 1, 2017

U of G researchers provide fisheries a solution to overharvesting

University of Guelph researchers have developed a model that allows fisheries to meet rising consumer demand while ensuring adequate income and replenishment of natural stocks. The model encourages fisheries to reduce short-term harvests to realize higher long-term yields, promoting sustainable fishing practices.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2017

Study unveils changes in the brain during extended missions in space

Researchers found permanent effects on human brain structure due to microgravity, including crowding and narrowing of the brain's central sulcus. The study aimed to understand the causes of VIIP syndrome, a condition affecting astronauts' vision and intracranial pressure.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 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.

Jellyfish-inspired electronic skin glows when it gets hurt

Researchers developed an electronic skin that glows when subjected to high-pressure, mimicking the Atolla jellyfish's bioluminescent response. This innovation improves prosthetics and robotics by detecting a wider range of pressures, addressing the limitations of current technologies.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 1, 2017

Landmark asbestos study published in The Lancet Public Health

A landmark study published in The Lancet Public Health has found a link between living in houses with loose-fill asbestos insulation and an increased risk of mesothelioma and colorectal cancer. Men were 2.5 times more likely to develop mesothelioma, while rates of colorectal cancer were higher in both men and women who had lived in con...

SourceAustralian National University·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateNov 1, 2017

Physicists describe new dark matter detection strategy

Researchers propose a new method for directly detecting dark matter by exploiting the interaction between superfluid helium and potential dark matter particles. The strategy involves a tub of helium and a positively charged metal pin array to amplify the tiny energy signature of a released atom, enabling the detection of single atoms a...

SourceBrown University·DateNov 1, 2017