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Science News Archive October 2017


Page 26 of 43

Combination of El Niño and 2016 Ecuador earthquake likely worsened Zika outbreak

A new study suggests that a strong El Niño and a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Ecuador in 2016 likely exacerbated the Zika virus outbreak, increasing cases by 12-fold in three months. The research highlights how climate variability can amplify the worst effects of natural disasters and disease outbreaks in socially vulnerable regions.

Scientists pinpoint surprising origin of melanoma

Researchers have identified melanocytes as the origin of cutaneous melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. These cells are reprogrammed to become invasive and migratory cancer cells, leading to tumor formation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A liquid biopsy for retinoblastoma

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles developed a safe and effective way to derive genetic information from retinoblastoma tumors without removing the eye. The technique uses aqueous humor, which contains tumor DNA, to provide valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment.

A new miniature solution for storing renewable energy

Researchers have created a new material that can store renewable energy efficiently. Metal-organic frameworks exhibit conductivity similar to metals, enabling large-scale storage of solar and wind power. This breakthrough could revolutionize intermittent renewable energy sources.

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.

Interdisciplinary approaches to wildlife trade management

A new framework describes the complex dynamics of the illicit wildlife trade by combining biological, anthropological and socioeconomic data to provide a holistic picture of the problem. This framework can help practitioners untangle the complexities underlying the wildlife trade.

A better understanding of space -- via helicopter

Yale researchers Darryl Seligman and Greg Laughlin have created a new model for understanding how black holes, planets, and galaxies emerge from the vortex-rich environments of space. They found that vortices may shed Rossby waves as they spin and that the number of orbits between two vortices is different in their model.

Global Change Center researchers to forecast water quality with NSF support

Global Change Center researchers developed a system to create real-time water forecasts for Falling Creek Reservoir in Roanoke, Va., using environmental data and local weather predictions. The system aims to predict times when water may require additional treatment due to environmental factors, improving drinking water quality.

New protein study broadens knowledge of molecular basis for disease

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have developed a new analysis procedure to better understand how intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) function in cells. The study finds that most IDPs are more disordered than previously thought, which could lead to new strategies for preventing protein misfolding diseases.

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.

Luring hornets: Scientists unlock sex pheromone of notorious honey bee predator

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a solution to control Asian hornets by luring males with synthesized sex pheromones, providing a simple and reliable way to monitor and potentially reduce populations. The study's findings demonstrate the key role of pheromones in long-distance attraction for these invasive insects.

NIST urges caution in use of courtroom evidence presentation method

Statisticians Steve Lund and Hari Iyer argue that Likelihood Ratio's Bayesian reasoning approach is flawed for courtroom use, risking conclusions driven by assumptions rather than data. NIST recommends using the method only in cases where probability-based models are warranted.

Enzymes at work: Breaking down stubborn cellulose

Researchers discovered oxidative enzymes that work together with hydrolytic enzymes to break down cellulose. The study observed these enzymes on the surface of cellulose particles using atomic force microscopy, providing direct evidence of their activity.

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.

Is it gonna blow? Measuring volcanic emissions from space

Researchers detect localized carbon dioxide sources from Mount Yasur and Los Angeles basin, providing insights into volcanic and anthropogenic emissions. The study supports the potential for space-based monitoring to prevent humanitarian disasters and reduce greenhouse gas-induced warming.

Like it or not: Broccoli may be good for the gut

Researchers found that broccoli's indole glucosinolates can activate the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the intestinal lining, maintaining a healthy balance in gut flora and immune surveillance. This may help prevent diseases like various cancers and Crohn's Disease caused by inflammation.

Autism often associated with multiple new mutations

Researchers discovered that autism is often associated with the appearance of new mutations in both protein-coding and regulatory genome regions. These newly formed mutations are more likely to increase an individual's risk of developing autism, with a significant impact from as few as two mutations.

$23 million in new funding for Dunlap Institute astronomers

The Dunlap Institute has received $23 million in funding to develop innovative astronomical technology, including a radio astronomy data centre and an infrared spectrograph. These projects will position Canada at the forefront of next-generation astronomy research.

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.

Spotting the spin of the Majorana fermion under the microscope

Scientists at Princeton University have enhanced scanning tunneling microscopy to capture signals from the elusive Majorana fermion in iron wires on a lead crystal. The study detects a unique quantum property called spin, which distinguishes the particle from other quasi-particles and provides a signature of its existence.

Lead fishing tackle may be threatening loon populations

A new study reveals that lead fishing tackle is the leading cause of mortality in adult common loons, resulting in 43% population decline over 24 years. The study found that jigs and sinkers accounted for most lead tackle objects ingested by loons.

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.

Paleogenomic analysis sheds light on Easter Island mysteries

A new study by UC Santa Cruz researchers rules out pre-European contact between Easter Island inhabitants and South Americans, leaving many questions unanswered about the island's population dynamics. The analysis of ancient DNA from skeletal remains found no evidence of gene flow between the two groups.

Warming seas could lead to 70 percent increase in hurricane-related financial loss

A new study published in Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure predicts that warmer oceans will lead to higher wind speeds and larger storms, resulting in increased damage and financial losses due to hurricanes. The study estimates a 70% increase in hurricane-related financial loss by 2100 for coastal communities in South Carolina.

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.

Material mimics 3-D camouflage abilities of an octopus

Researchers have created a 2-D material that can morph into a 3D structure and change color to blend in with its environment. The material mimics the skin of an octopus, featuring erector muscles that rapidly form shapes to achieve camouflage.

Cell contacts in embryonic development determine cellular fate

Researchers at IST Austria have identified a positive feedback loop between cell-cell contact formation and cell fate specification in zebrafish embryos. This loop, triggered by long-lasting contacts, leads to the specification of head mesoderm cells, while short-lasting contacts result in endoderm cells.

Pioneering discovery of an odor-detecting receptor enhancer

Researchers discovered an evolutionary conserved sequence motif in mammalian genomes that regulates class I odorant receptor genes, a novel mechanism of expression. The J element controls the selective expression of these genes, highlighting its importance in understanding gene regulation and disease.

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.

Sleep on your side, not your back in late pregnancy

A new study published in The Journal of Physiology found that pregnant women who sleep on their backs during late pregnancy may be at increased risk of late stillbirth. Fetal activity levels were lower when mothers slept on their backs, suggesting a potential link between maternal position and fetal wellbeing.

New technique scours the genome for genes that combat disease

Researchers at MIT developed a new way to screen for genes that protect against specific diseases by adapting the CRISPR genome-editing system. The new technology identified genes that protect yeast cells from a protein associated with Parkinson's disease, which may also provide protective effects in human neurons.

Genes critical for hearing identified

A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified 52 previously unknown genes that play a crucial role in human hearing. The research used 'knock-out' mice to assess their hearing thresholds and found that these genes can lead to mild to severe hearing loss or difficulties at specific frequencies.

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.

Young men are getting more out of 'bromances' than romances

A recent study by Robinson et al. found that young men's 'bromances' are more emotionally satisfying than their romantic relationships with women. The researchers discovered that men felt less judged and more able to express emotions in their close male friendships compared to their girlfriends.

Lost in translation: When humor kills the message

A QUT study found that humorous driver sleepiness advertisements can be ineffective due to drivers' expectations of shocking messages. Young Australian drivers prefer serious road safety topics over lighthearted approaches.

Making healthier decisions, step by step

A study at San Diego International Airport found that signs encouraging stair use increased steps taken by 50% compared to sign-free days. The prompts appeared to nudge both regular and non-exercisers into taking the stairs, demonstrating a ripple effect in behavior.

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.

Tropical tree roots represent an underappreciated carbon pool

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that tropical tree roots account for almost 30% of the total biomass of young trees. The research also revealed diverse root architectures among species, with some sending large tap roots and others extending laterally just below the soil surface.

How switches work in bacteria

Researchers analyzed the structure and dynamics of riboswitches using optical single-molecule experiments. They found that the riboswitch fluctuates between different conformations, with SAM attachment accelerating structure changes to ensure quick gene expression shutdown.

USC team finds a potentially better way to treat liver cancer

A USC research team has identified a potential therapeutic target for liver cancer treatment: mitophagy, the removal of damaged mitochondria. This process can cause tumors to proliferate, but temporarily halting it may reduce cancer stem cell growth, leading to tumor regression.

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.

Watching plant photosynthesis...from space

A new technique uses satellite-based remote-sensing to quantify plant metabolism by measuring solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence. This correlation opens up applications for climate change and ecosystem monitoring, biodiversity conservation, and land management.

Whole genome sequencing identifies new genetic signature for autism

Researchers have discovered a new genetic signature for autism by analyzing the genomes of 516 autistic children and their families. The study found that individuals with autism are more likely to have multiple genetic variations, suggesting a complex interplay between genes in the development of the disorder.

UH, ExxonMobil Chemical Company sign research agreement

The partnership aims to reduce environmental impact while developing innovative solutions for manufacturing petrochemical products. Researchers from ExxonMobil will collaborate with UH faculty and students on various projects, including studying catalysis and producing specialty chemicals.

Early pregnancy test for cows improves welfare and food production

A simpler early pregnancy test for cattle has improved animal welfare and food production by enabling pregnancy to be determined after just 25 days. This detection method has contributed to reduced animal costs, more efficient food production, and ultimately good human health.

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.

Laser cavities take on new shapes and functionalities

The researchers have demonstrated the first laser cavity that can confine and propagate light in any shape imaginable, even pathways with sharp bends and angles. This new design could enable higher speed optical communication technologies.

Geologic evidence is the forerunner of ominous prospects for a warming earth

A new review in Marine Geology reveals that slightly warmer temperatures and moderate CO2 concentrations over 100,000 years ago led to dramatic superstorms and sea-level rise in the Bahamas and Bermuda. The study emphasizes that strong climate forcing is not required to yield major impacts on the ocean and ice caps.

Brain imaging results skewed by biased study samples

A new UCSF-led study found that non-representative sampling in pediatric MRI images significantly distorted findings about brain development with age. The research team created a weighted version of the dataset to better reflect the US population, revealing faster-paced brain development and a back-to-front model of brain region develo...

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.

Halting liver cancer with a sugar look-a-like

Researchers at RIKEN discovered a way to prevent liver cancer spread by treating with a modified fucose sugar. The treatment disrupts biological pathways, blocking hepatoma cells from invading healthy liver cells and suppressing migration, but not proliferation.

'Seeing' the other side of our galaxy

A team of astronomers successfully traced a spiral arm on the far side of our Galaxy using radio interferometry and parallax measurements. They located the Scutum-Centaurus spiral arm as it passes around the far side and verified a new method to infer distances in this region.

Understanding rare earth emulsions

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that surface polarization in mixed media increases the attraction among rare earth elements. This finding could make rare earth recovery faster, easier, and less expensive. The study's results have implications for separating rare earths as well as other elements and nuclear waste removal.