Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive October 2017


Page 33 of 43

Diversity of large animals plays an important role in carbon cycle

A recent analysis by Stanford University researchers found that places with high animal diversity correlate with areas that have the most carbon sequestered in soil. The team discovered that meal remnants from animals contribute to an increase in soil microbes, which convert organic material into stored carbon.

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.

Study warns of pumpkin-colored zombies

A new study suggests that reducing nutrient pollution in salt marshes could help prevent human disease. The research found that nutrient enrichment increased the number and biomass of parasites in a specific host species, which may have implications for human health.

New congenital heart disease genes uncovered

Researchers have identified several genes associated with congenital heart disease, including FLT4 and GDF1, which may help predict risk for future offspring. The study also found that de novo mutations in certain genes are common among CHD patients, potentially leading to neurodevelopmental issues.

Global kids study: More trees, less disease

A University of Vermont-led study of 300,000 children in 35 nations reveals that those living near areas with greater tree cover are less likely to experience diarrheal disease. The research suggests that protecting watersheds can have a comparable effect to improved water sanitation.

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.

Stanford-led study uncovers mutation that supercharges tumor-suppressor

A Stanford-led study discovered a specific mutation in the p53 gene that enhances its anti-tumor activity, creating a 'super tumor suppressor' that protects against pancreatic cancer. The researchers found that this mutant hyperactivates p53, leading to a surge of activity in downstream target genes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA sees post Tropical Cyclone Nate's wide rainfall reach

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured thermal images of cloud top temperatures from Post-tropical cyclone Nate, revealing coldest temperatures in storms over the Mid-Atlantic States. The storm brought moderate to heavy rainfall to the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Genome architecture caught in motion

Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered how the genome's three-dimensional architecture changes during the cell cycle. The study found that condensation and de-condensation occur gradually, with larger domains forming during mitosis.

UW awarded $12.5 million to study astrophysical plasma here on Earth

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has been awarded $12.5 million to develop a new laboratory that will research fundamental properties of plasma to better understand the universe. The lab, known as WiPPL, will combine expertise and equipment from two existing projects to simulate astrophysical phenomena on Earth.

Alzheimer's gene poses both risk -- and benefits

Researchers found that high-risk TREM2 variants can hobble the immune system's ability to protect against amyloid beta, but later in the disease, the absence of TREM2 protein protects the brain from damage. The study suggests targeting the TREM2 protein as a means of preventing or treating Alzheimer's may be complicated and that doctor...

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.

Insight into our 50-plus lifespan still evolving, genetic study shows

A recent genetic study found that men's ability to father children later in life has no link to their longevity, and women's survival past 50 is not favoured by evolution. The research suggests that genes beneficial for both early and late life are the key to understanding why people live beyond 50.

Brain stimulation and adaptive behavior

A study of 90 participants found that neural stimulation synchronized or desynchronized low-frequency brain waves between frontal cortex areas, corresponding to behavioral changes in control and learning. The findings have potential implications for the treatment of mental health disorders.

A 'turbo charge' for your brain?

Researcher Robert Reinhart found that synchronizing specific brain oscillations enhances executive function by improving communication between two key brain areas. Participants showed improved learning and decision-making skills, and effects could be quickly reversed.

Risk factors for heart health linked to marital ups and downs -- at least for men

A study found that changes in marital relationship quality over time are associated with variations in cardiovascular risk factors for men. Improving relationships were linked to lower levels of 'bad' cholesterol and relatively lower weight, while deteriorating relationships were associated with worsening diastolic blood pressure.

Open-ocean wind farms

Researchers suggest open-ocean wind farms can sustain higher electricity generation rates than on-land wind farms due to kinetic energy reservoir access. Annual global energy demand could be met with commercial-scale open-ocean wind turbines spanning approximately 3 million square kilometers.

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.

New methods tackle a perplexing engineering concept

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed guidelines to understand auxetic materials that become thicker when stretched, applicable for protective sports equipment, body armor and biomedical devices. The new tools aim to democratize auxetic design, making it accessible to engineers from novice to advanced experience levels.

How global warming is drying up the North American monsoon

A new study by Princeton University researchers reveals that the North American monsoon is facing a dramatic reduction in precipitation, with significant implications for regional water resources and hazards. The study corrects for sea surface temperature biases and suggests that the region's famous thunderstorms may become less common.

HIV: The benefits of prophylaxis of tuberculosis are confirmed

Long-term follow-up confirms that isoniazid prophylaxis reduces both severe morbidity and mortality among HIV-infected individuals. The study provides evidence for the WHO recommendation of isoniazid preventive therapy in HIV-positive patients, even with early antiretroviral treatment.

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.

New insight into how brain cells die in Alzheimer's and FTD

Researchers discovered that LSD1 removal in adult mice induces changes in gene activity similar to Alzheimer's disease. LSD1 protein is also perturbed in human brain samples with Alzheimer's and FTD, suggesting it as a central player in these neurodegenerative diseases.

Black carbon deposits on birds

Estimates of early industrial emissions of black carbon are inexact due to limited sampling before the mid-1950s. Researchers found regional black carbon concentrations peaked during the first decade of the 20th century and were linked to coal consumption, with concentrations becoming decoupled after 1960.

Dads are often having fun while moms work around the house

After having a baby, men tend to relax and women do household chores on their days off. In contrast, when both partners work, they split tasks more evenly. The study suggests that couples should discuss how to share household duties before the baby is born.

JILA spinning method confirms the electron still seems round

Physicists at JILA have confirmed the leading results on electron roundness using a unique spinning molecule technique, measuring its symmetry to provide new insights into fundamental physics and potential fossils of ancient asymmetry. The method offers future potential for more sensitive searches and tests of natural constants.

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.

UTA receives grant to continue veteran success program

The University of Texas at Arlington has received a five-year, $1.3 million grant to renew its Veterans Upward Bound program, which improves college readiness and degree completion for veterans. The program has served over 580 veterans since its inception in 2012.

Trench Foot discovery paves way for new treatment

Researchers have discovered that patients with non-freezing cold injury, also known as 'trench foot,' have a significant reduction in nerve fibers within the skin. This damage causes chronic pain experienced by these patients. Understanding the root cause of the condition may lead to new treatments and improved prevention strategies.

Molecular basis for memory and learning

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have identified key molecules involved in regulating brain plasticity and memory. GRIP1, ephrinB2, and ApoER2 are found to interact and regulate AMPA receptor insertion at the synapse, influencing learning and memory.

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.

UTA bioengineer to collaborate with UTSW to improve neonatal brain monitoring

A University of Texas at Arlington bioengineering professor and her team will integrate a portable brain imaging system with an advanced signal-processing technique for newborns. This project aims to provide real-time analysis needed to treat encephalopathy or brain swelling more quickly, saving the lives of sick babies.

The risk of type 1 diabetes not increased by swine flu vaccine Pandemrix

A new study of children from Sweden and Finland found that the swine flu vaccine Pandemrix did not increase the risk of developing autoantibodies against insulin-producing beta cells or type 1 diabetes. In fact, vaccinated children in Finland showed a reduced risk of developing autoantibodies and type 1 diabetes.

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.

Computer program detects differences between human cells

A new computer program called SCENIC enables researchers to quickly and accurately identify different cell types in the human body. The method helps understand how cell fate is regulated and could lead to the discovery of master regulators and potential drug targets.

Bacteria self-organize to build working sensors

Bacteria self-organize to form a golden shell around their colony using gold nanoparticles, creating a functional pressure sensor. The researchers controlled the size and shape of the device by altering the growth environment, demonstrating a proof-of-principle for fabricating structured materials.

UA snakebite treatment makes major advance

Researchers have developed a carbon monoxide-iron-based therapy that can inhibit the effects of rattlesnake and other venomous snakebites for up to an hour in animals. The therapy blocks hemotoxic venom enzymes, preventing destruction of blood's ability to clot and reducing the risk of internal bleeding and organ damage.

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.

Women who undergo aggressive surgery for breast cancer may miss more work

A new study reveals that women with breast cancer who received more aggressive treatments were more likely to experience disruptions in employment. Women who underwent bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction had nearly eight times the risk of missing over a month of work compared to those who underwent lumpectomy.

Safe to treat dementia patients with clot-busting drugs

A Swedish registry study found that dementia patients with stroke can receive thrombolysis treatment without increased risk of brain haemorrhage or death. However, those over 80 may experience worse functional outcomes and be more likely to be discharged to nursing homes.

Head Start may protect against foster care placement

A national study led by Michigan State University researcher Sacha Klein found that participating in Head Start may help prevent young children from being placed in foster care. Kids up to age 5 in the program were 93% less likely to end up in foster care than those without early care and education.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The female brain reacts more strongly to prosocial behavior than the male brain

Research reveals that female brains activate more strongly in response to prosocial behavior compared to male brains, which prioritize reward from selfish actions. Cultural conditioning plays a significant role in shaping these differences, as women are often rewarded for prosocial behavior, leading to stronger neural responses.

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.

Predicting platelet usage in hospitals

A new statistical model uses hospital patient data to predict platelet transfusion needs, enabling optimal inventory management and reducing waste. The approach could save healthcare systems up to $80 million annually if adopted nationwide.

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.

Human minibrains reveal effects of psychedelic substance

Researchers have identified changes in molecular signaling related to neural plasticity, inflammation and neurodegeneration triggered by the psychedelic substance 5-MeO-DMT. This study suggests that classic psychedelics may induce neuroplasticity and exert antidepressant effects.

Coal and potential global glaciation

Climate model simulations suggest that a significant decrease in atmospheric CO2 concentrations could have led to global glaciation. The study indicates that Earth's coal deposits formed during this period may have been the trigger for such an event.

Research IDs key factors that help women ex-convicts avoid recidivism

Four factors were identified as significant in helping women ex-convicts avoid recidivism: good nutritional health, good spiritual health, having a high school education, and having been convicted of drug offenses. These factors resulted in reduced likelihoods of recidivism ranging from 40% to 70%.