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Science News Archive October 2017 - Page 3


Page 3 of 43

Preparing for the power outages and water shortages of the next disaster

A University of Delaware research team is studying how people adapt to power outages and water shortages after disasters. The project aims to optimize risk management strategies and improve societal needs through a multifaceted approach combining engineering modeling techniques, social science methods, and real-world case studies.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateOct 30, 2017

Are the grandkids worth it? Climate change policy depends on how we value human population

A new study finds that reducing greenhouse gas emissions to protect future generations from environmental destruction could save tens of billions of dollars annually, especially in wealthier countries. By valuing human population differently, policymakers can make more informed decisions about climate policy.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2017

Sight unseen

Researchers analyzed over 600 drug and breast cancer cell pairings, revealing significant changes in gene expression without affecting cell growth or survival. The study identified potential synergistic combinations of drugs, including trametinib and alpelisib, to overcome adaptive resistance mechanisms.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The advent of 'green' cattle

A new method of carbon footprinting for pasture-based cattle production systems can identify 'green' cattle within a herd, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study found that existing methods underestimates the impacts of poorly performing animals, which produce disproportionately large amounts of methane.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateOct 30, 2017

Monster colliding black holes might lurk on the edge of spiral galaxies

Researchers at RIT suggest that outer gas disks of big spiral galaxies are suitable for hosting orbiting black holes and merging massive black holes. This discovery could help explain how black-hole pairs form and provide a new way to study the universe using gravitational waves and traditional light measurements.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 30, 2017

Important mechanism of epigenetic gene regulation identified

Researchers at the University of Zurich have discovered a crucial mechanism for epigenetic gene regulation, involving the DNMT3A enzyme. This finding provides new insights into the development of aggressive types of leukemia and may lead to more effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateOct 30, 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.

UNIST unveils new fast-charging, high-energy electric-car battery technology

Researchers at UNIST have developed a novel hydrogen isotope separation system based on porous metal organic frameworks, exhibiting the highest selectivity to date. The system can efficiently separate and store deuterium, with a separation factor of 26, making it more cost-effective than cryogenic distillation methods.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 30, 2017

Voltage-driven liquid metal fractals

Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered that applying low voltage to gallium indium can induce the formation of unique fractal patterns. The discovery has significant implications for controlling liquid metals, as it allows for reversible and effective manipulation of surface tension.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 30, 2017

Insects and pharmaceutical contamination

Researchers found that insects reared on contaminated diets or irrigated with antibiotics exhibit increased mortality rates and altered development times. This study has implications for integrated pest management and the use of reclaimed wastewater in agriculture.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2017

Study shows how memories ripple through the brain

A recent NIH-funded study used innovative NeuroGrid technology to show that sleep boosts communication between the hippocampus and association neocortex, crucial for memory formation. The research suggests that neural dialogue between these regions helps retain information during sleep.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 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.

Spooky conservation: Saving endangered species over our dead bodies

A University of Queensland researcher suggests that conservation burials, where burial fees support threatened species conservation, have substantial potential to increase biodiversity. By generating revenue exceeding the cost of saving all threatened species, conservation burials could effectively protect endangered wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalConservation Letters·DateOct 30, 2017

Tsunami reveals human noise pollution in Hawaiian waters

A tsunami in Hawaii's Kona Coast provided a rare glimpse into underwater soundscapes without human disruption, revealing that boat traffic and sonar exercises create the loudest disruptions in bays. This study validates concerns about human noise pollution disrupting dolphin sleep patterns.

SourceDuke University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateOct 30, 2017

Driving drug resistance out of fungi

Researchers have developed a CRISPR-Cas9-based gene drive platform to create diploid strains of C. albicans, allowing for the efficient deletion of genes involved in drug resistance and biofilm formation. The approach identified synergistic combinations of genes that contribute to these traits.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Microbiology·DateOct 30, 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.

Early warning health and welfare system could save farmers millions of pounds

A new early warning system called Y-Ware is being developed to alert farmers to the risk of disease among their young cattle stock, aiming to improve health and welfare while reducing antimicrobial use. The project utilizes machine learning techniques and real-time data from sensors to provide an early warning system for health.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateOct 30, 2017

Microscopic defects make batteries better

Researchers found that microscopic defects in electrodes enable lithium to hop inside the cathode along multiple directions, increasing reactive surface area and allowing for more efficient exchange of lithium ions. This discovery challenges traditional thinking on how electrode shape should be optimized for battery performance.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2017

UT professor studies effects of medicaid expansion

A study published in Population Health Management found that state-level Medicaid expansion improved health care access among low-income US residents, increasing insurance coverage and reducing barriers to care. Residents in non-expansion states were disproportionately negatively affected by the decision not to expand Medicaid coverage.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateOct 30, 2017

Nanoscale platform aims to control protein levels

Rice University scientists invented a bifunctional recognition system called NanoDeg to target specific proteins and regulate their degradation. This plug-and-play system allows for precise control over protein expression levels, enabling the study of cellular dynamics and synthetic gene circuits.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateOct 30, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Societies detail treatment for patients with ventricular arrhythmias

The new guidelines aim to prevent sudden cardiac death in patients with ventricular arrhythmias. The guideline recommends the use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and provides guidance on genetic counseling and testing.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 30, 2017

Feinstein Institute discovery challenges belief about brain's cellular makeup

A recent study published in Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry found that brain cells contain less polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to other major organs. This discovery, made by Dr. Junhwan Kim, PhD, has significant implications for understanding brain health and conditions like oxygen deprivation.

SourceNorthwell Health·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateOct 30, 2017

Population, wellbeing, and climate change mitigation

A study links population growth to increased social cost of carbon dioxide and potential savings in climate mitigation costs by reducing emissions. The model suggests that minimal population growth can lead to substantial annual savings.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2017
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.

UTHealth researchers' intriguing study

UTHealth researchers identified a key factor in mid-life cell aging that can predict Alzheimer's disease decades before symptoms appear. The study found that mice lacking IL33 gene experienced dementia at age 68, highlighting the potential of this protein as a biomarker for early detection.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateOct 30, 2017

Good vibrations: Smart access to homes and cars using fingers

VibWrite integrates passcode, behavioral, and physiological characteristics to verify users, offering a low-cost security solution that resists attacks and can be deployed on any solid surface. The system has verified legitimate users with over 95% accuracy in trials and shows promise for commercialization in the near future.

SourceRutgers University·DateOct 30, 2017

Work-family balance can tip wrong way for some young doctors

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that female medical interns are more likely to suffer from symptoms of depression than their male counterparts, with a significant portion due to work-family responsibilities. The research suggests that the conflict between long work hours and household duties can predispose individuals...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 30, 2017

Sulfur respiration in mammals

Researchers identified a sulfur metabolite with antioxidant activity that supports mitochondrial energy metabolism, a crucial process for cellular function. This finding highlights the potential of enzymes involved in sulfur respiration to treat diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2017

Liquids take a shine to terahertz radiation

Researchers at TIFR devise compact terahertz radiation source using laboratory liquids, achieving energies thousands of times larger than existing sources. The discovery opens doors to applications in terahertz imaging, material analysis, and explosives detection.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 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.

Face and color processing in humans

Researchers used neurostimulation to activate brain regions associated with face and color processing, inducing illusory faces and rainbows in a patient. The findings suggest functional and anatomical specificity of these brain regions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2017

Despite improvements, death rates from lupus remain disproportionately high

A nationwide population-based study found that death rates from lupus remain high compared to the general population, with significant disparities observed among older persons, females, blacks, and Hispanics. The study suggests that targeted research and public health programs may help address these disparities.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 30, 2017

Moving neuroscience into the fast lane

A new high-throughput system enables rapid and standardized mouse behavior and physiology studies, reducing experimental animal usage and time requirements. The system aims to facilitate reproducibility and data sharing, addressing issues of varying training protocols and data comparison across labs.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2017

People who value virtue show wiser reasoning

A new study published in Psychological Science finds that individuals motivated to develop the best in themselves and others tend to reason wisely about their own personal problems. The research highlights two key components of wise reasoning: considering other people's perspectives and intellectual humility.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 30, 2017

AUGS publishes best practice statement on pelvic organ prolapse

The American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) has published a Best Practice Statement on pelvic organ prolapse, emphasizing the importance of proper evaluation and counseling for women. The statement outlines treatment options, including physical therapy, pessaries, and surgery, tailored to individual patient needs.

SourceCare New England·JournalFemale Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery·DateOct 30, 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.

Food odor enhances male flies' attractiveness

Researchers at Max Planck Institute discover that female flies become more receptive to courting males when they smell their favorite food. The study found that vinegar odor boosts the perception of a male sex pheromone, increasing the likelihood of mating.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2017

Willingness to take risks -- a personality trait

Researchers found a stable general factor of risk preference that affects decisions across different areas of life. This trait shares the psychometric structure of major psychological characteristics and can be measured using self-reports and frequency measures of actual risky activities.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2017

The relentless rise of migration in Europe over last 10,000 years

Researchers found that prehistoric migration rates increased in three distinct pulses, coinciding with the spread of agriculture, Bronze Age advancements, and Iron Age population growth. This suggests a strong link between technological innovation and human mobility.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2017

New approach for treatment of contact allergy

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed an RNA aptamer that specifically targets CCL17, blocking its interaction with T cells and dendritic cells. This approach shows promise for treating contact allergies by reducing inflammatory responses in mice.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateOct 30, 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.

New tool predicts risk of plant disease and infestation worldwide

A new algorithm-based technique predicts potential plant disease hotspots by analyzing pest-host interactions and geographical distribution of vulnerable plants. This can help governments anticipate outbreaks and prevent biological invasions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Applied Mathematics and Statistics·DateOct 30, 2017

Native trees, shrubs provide more food for birds

University of Delaware doctoral student Desiree Narango found that native trees are better at providing caterpillars for birds, which is a crucial food resource. In contrast, non-native plants offer little to no resources for breeding birds.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiological Conservation·DateOct 30, 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.

Bonding benefits of breastfeeding extend years beyond infancy

A longitudinal study published by the American Psychological Association found that women who breastfed their children longer exhibited greater maternal sensitivity well past infancy and toddler years. The effect sizes were small, suggesting the bond may be strengthened through multiple interactions, not just breastfeeding.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateOct 30, 2017

Graphene enables high-speed electronics on flexible materials

Researchers at Chalmers University have developed a flexible terahertz detector using graphene transistors on plastic substrates. The device detects signals in the frequency range of 330 to 500 gigahertz, opening up various applications including imaging sensors and wireless communications.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 30, 2017

Funding of millions for TU Graz-lead projects from university owned funds

TU Graz is awarding €2 million to the 'Mechanics, Modeling and Simulation of Aortic Dissection' project and €1.5 million to the 'Porous Materials @ Work' project to advance research in biomechanics and materials sciences. The funding will support the development of simulation models and algorithms to diagnose and treat aortic dissections.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateOct 30, 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.

Cobalt and tungsten -- the key to cheaper, cleaner hydrogen

Researchers have designed a new catalyst made of cobalt and tungsten that reduces the cost of electrolytic hydrogen production by splitting water molecules at very low voltages. This process avoids the use of expensive and scarce precious metals like iridium.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateOct 30, 2017

White rot fungi's size explained by breadth of gene families involved

A team of researchers has sequenced the genomes of four Armillaria fungi, including A. ostoyae, to better understand its evolution and devastating impact on forests. The study reveals a vast array of gene families involved in pathogenicity and lignocellulose degradation.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 30, 2017

3-D-printed device builds better nanofibers

A new 3D-printed device produces nanofiber meshes with reduced variation in diameters, making it suitable for various applications such as tissue engineering, water filtration, and body armor. The device's design flexibility and fast iteration capabilities make it a promising technology for commercialization.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNanotechnology·DateOct 30, 2017

Virtual reality reduces phantom pain in paraplegics

Researchers at EPFL used virtual reality to reduce phantom pain in paraplegics by creating an illusion of tactile stimulation on the legs. The study, published in Neurology, found that subjects who experienced this illusion reported decreased pain levels.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNeurology·DateOct 30, 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.

Smart artificial beta cells could lead to new diabetes treatment

Artificial beta cells mimic the body's natural glucose-controllers and can be subcutaneously inserted into patients or delivered via a painless skin patch. In lab experiments and animal models, they demonstrated rapid responsiveness to excess glucose levels and normalized blood glucose levels in diabetic mice.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 30, 2017

Cochrane review looks at the effectiveness and side effects of mefloquine

A Cochrane review found that mefloquine is at least as effective as other options for preventing malaria, but its psychological side effects outpace those of alternatives. Common symptoms include sleeplessness, abnormal dreams, anxiety, and depression.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalTravel Medicine and Infectious Disease·DateOct 30, 2017

Food should be marketed as a 'meal' rather than a 'snack' to avoid overeating

A recent study published in the journal Appetite found that marketing food as a 'meal' rather than a 'snack' can lead to reduced consumption and overeating. Researchers discovered that participants who consumed pasta labelled as a 'snack' ate more at a subsequent taste test compared to those who had eaten it as a 'meal'. This suggests ...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAppetite·DateOct 30, 2017

Both the aggressor and the victim: alarming number of teens cyberbully themselves

A new FAU study reveals nearly 6% of teens anonymously posted mean things about themselves online, with boys more likely to participate than girls. Digital self-harm is linked to depression, suicidal thoughts, and a higher risk of suicide attempts, highlighting the need for social support and clinical intervention.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateOct 30, 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.