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Science News Archive October 2017 - Page 36


Page 36 of 43

Segregation-induced ordered superstructures at general grain boundaries in a Ni-Bi alloy

At randomly selected high-angle general grain boundaries in a nickel-bismuth polycrystalline alloy, researchers found that interfacial reconstruction can form ordered superstructures. These segregation-induced superstructures enrich theories and fundamental understandings of grain boundary segregation and liquid metal embrittlement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017

Appetizing imagery puts visual perception on fast forward

Participants rated positive images as smoother and less choppy than neutral and negative images, even when fading at the same rate. The emotional content of the images affected how people experienced time, with higher approach motivation leading to smoother perceptions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Prehistoric humans are likely to have formed mating networks to avoid inbreeding

Research suggests that prehistoric humans recognized the dangers of inbreeding at least 34,000 years ago and developed sophisticated social networks to avoid it. The study analyzed genetic information from remains of anatomically modern humans and found evidence of deliberate mate selection beyond immediate family members.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017

Global burden of disease study focuses on liver cancer

A new study estimates that there were 854,000 new cases of liver cancer and 810,000 deaths worldwide in 2015. The majority of these cases were attributed to hepatitis B virus and alcohol consumption, highlighting the need for prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 5, 2017

How much can watching hockey stress your heart?

A new study found that watching hockey games live or on TV can cause a substantial effect on the cardiovascular system, with average heart rate increases of 75% and 110%, respectively. The emotional stress response triggered by high-stakes moments in the game can trigger adverse cardiovascular events.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateOct 5, 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.

Monoclonal antibodies against zika show promise in monkey study

Scientists develop an antibody-based Zika virus therapeutic that protects monkeys from infection and neutralizes the virus. The treatment has been shown to be effective in preventing Zika virus replication in rhesus macaques.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 5, 2017

Bariatric surgery lowers cancer risk for severely obese patients

A recent study published in Annals of Surgery found that bariatric surgery lowers the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including postmenopausal breast cancer and endometrial cancer, by up to 50% among severely obese patients. The study also showed a significant reduction in risk for colon cancer and pancreatic cancer.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateOct 5, 2017

New technology uses mouth gestures to interact in virtual reality

Researchers at Binghamton University developed a new framework that interprets mouth gestures as a medium for interaction within virtual reality in real-time. The system achieved high correct recognition rates and was tested on a group of graduate students using a head-mounted display.

SourceBinghamton University·DateOct 5, 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.

IUPUI microbiologists uncover clues to clustering of lethal bacteria in CF patients' lungs

Researchers have identified a key protein, MgtE, that plays a crucial role in signaling bacteria to form clusters, or biofilms, in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients. The study reveals how fluctuations in magnesium levels influence MgtE activity, providing new insights into the development of chronic pneumonia.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateOct 5, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, October 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a method to detect network intrusions in connected and autonomous vehicles, with near-perfect detection rates in initial testing. Additionally, scientists have created a technique for making ultrafast measurements using atomic force microscopy, allowing for high-resolution ima...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 5, 2017

Research identifies potential targets for treatment of leishmaniasis

Researchers have identified two microRNAs, miR-294 and miR-721, that are upregulated in macrophages infected with Leishmania parasites, potentially inhibiting the immune system's response. By analyzing the expression of these microRNAs, scientists hope to identify molecular targets for developing new treatments against leishmaniasis.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateOct 5, 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.

Sensory loss can be a warning sign of poor health outcomes, including death

A long-term study found that global sensory impairment can predict poor health outcomes, including greater risk of death, in older US adults. Adults with worse sensory impairment had slower physical and cognitive abilities, and a higher risk of dying over five years.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 2017

A new CRISPR-engineered cancer model to test therapeutics

Researchers developed a customizable mouse model of leukemia using multiplex CRISPR-Cas9 editing and human hematopoietic stem cells. The models accurately reflect human responses to therapeutic agents commonly used to treat blood cancers. This breakthrough may aid drug discovery and clinical trials.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 5, 2017

Improvement of the genetic decoding of neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers developed higher resolution genetic diagnostic tools to identify genetic anomalies in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The study linked novel DLG2 promoters and coding exons to developmental delay and intellectual disability, providing a potential pathogenic role in these conditions.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalGenome Medicine·DateOct 5, 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.

Soil microbes' contribution to the carbon cycle in a warming world

Researchers discovered a four-phase pattern in soil organic matter decay and carbon dioxide flows to the atmosphere due to soil warming. This pattern has significant implications for global warming, as it suggests that microbial communities are adapting to changing conditions by evolving new enzymes to process reduced carbon.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017

A need for bananas? Dietary potassium regulates calcification of arteries

Researchers found that low dietary potassium promotes elevated aortic stiffness, while increased dietary potassium alleviates it. Increased potassium also reduced vascular calcification and aortic stiffness in mouse models, suggesting its potential to protect against heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 5, 2017

Obama and Trump administrations get opposite environmental assessment results

The Obama and Trump administrations have produced vastly different environmental assessment results related to the Clean Water Act. A systematic protocol for government cost-benefit analyses of proposed regulations is urgently needed to ensure better decision-making on human health and environmental issues.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 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.

Scientists from MSU proposed a way of increasing the efficiency of solar batteries

Researchers from MSU found that changing the ratio of components in light-absorbing perovskite layers influences film structure and solar cell efficiency. By studying intermediate compounds formed during crystallization, they discovered a key factor affecting perovskite crystal shape and solar cell performance.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateOct 5, 2017

Key plant species may be important for supporting wildflower pollinators

A new study found that a selection of efficient key plant species can effectively support pollinators in agricultural landscapes. The researchers identified 14 crucial plant species for the whole bee and hoverfly community, highlighting the potential of targeted agri-environmental schemes.

SourceWiley·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateOct 5, 2017

Jefferson Lab completes 12 GeV upgrade

The 12 GeV Upgrade Project has tripled CEBAF's original operating energy, enabling precise imaging of nuclei and searches for exotic new particles. This upgrades allows researchers to explore the fundamental building blocks of matter at a scale previously inaccessible.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateOct 5, 2017

New 'molecular trap' cleans more radioactive waste from nuclear fuel rods

A new molecular trap, MIL-101-Cr, removes nearly all radioactive iodide from used nuclear fuel rods, exceeding current regulations by up to 0.003 percent. The breakthrough could save on fuel costs worldwide, as the new method is cheaper and more effective than existing industrial adsorbents.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

12,000 years ago, Florida hurricanes heated up despite chilly seas

Researchers found that hurricane-suppressing effects of cooler sea surface temperatures were outweighed by the side effects of slowed ocean circulation in Florida during the Younger Dryas period. Turbidites captured the fury of Florida's stormy days, revealing a surprising level of hurricane activity despite chilly seas.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateOct 5, 2017

Simplifying information aids fight against childhood obesity, study finds

A new study found that simplified health information and instruction can improve outcomes for families with low health literacy in childhood obesity treatment programs. Families saw similar improvements in body mass index, sugar-sweetened drink consumption, and quality of life, regardless of their ability to understand health information.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateOct 5, 2017

Researchers analyze cost-effectiveness of guinea worm disease eradication

The global Guinea Worm Eradication Programme is highly cost-effective in preventing the spread of guinea worm disease, with a financial cost of $0.0176 per capita per year. The programme's cost-effectiveness exceeds that of no intervention or minimal intervention scenarios, making it a valuable investment for disease prevention.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 5, 2017

Genomic screening helps doctors target girl's cancer

A precision medicine trial is helping doctors target the genetic makeup of high-risk neuroblastoma tumors. Victoria Thompson, a two-year-old girl, is part of the trial and has seen promising results after innovative treatments.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateOct 5, 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.

Predicting when a sound will occur relies on the brain's motor system

A new study by McGill University researchers reveals that the brain's motor signals play a crucial role in distinguishing complex sounds. By anticipating the occurrence of next tone, the motor system sharpens auditory perception, even when participants remain still.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2017

Researchers identify genetic drivers of most common form of lymphoma

A recent study has identified 150 genetic drivers of diffuse large B cell lymphoma, a common form of blood cancer. The research, led by Duke Cancer Institute scientists, found correlations between specific genes and treatment responses, opening up new avenues for targeted therapies.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCell·DateOct 5, 2017

New findings on mechanisms for body temperature regulation by fat tissue

A study by Georgia State University researchers found that brown fat's role in generating heat is more complex than previously thought. They discovered that lipolysis, which breaks down stored fat, is not essential for heat production in response to cold exposure, but rather regulates fuel selection and white fat browning.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 5, 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.

Liverwort genes and land plant evolution

The liverwort's genome has provided insight into the transition from algae to land plants, identifying genes critical for plant growth and development. The study also found that early plants developed strategies for water retention and distribution, which are still employed by modern plants.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 5, 2017

New book examines human need for art and public space

The new book, 'Public Space? Lost and Found,' examines the crucial role of art in shaping our sense of community and politics. It argues that public space is an essential requirement of contemporary life and can never be politically neutral ground.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMIT Press OA Books·DateOct 5, 2017

Scientists enlist supercomputers, machine learning to automatically identify brain tumors

A team of researchers from the University of Texas at Austin has created an accurate and efficient method to characterize gliomas, the most common and aggressive type of primary brain tumor. Their system combined biophysical models with machine learning algorithms to analyze Magnetic Resonance imaging data, achieving top results in a c...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateOct 5, 2017

New insights on the addictions of tumors

Research at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute suggests that eliminating p62 protein in surrounding stromal tissue can disrupt tumor supply lines. This could lead to new strategies to target non-oncogenic addictions and undermine cancer growth.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 5, 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.

Perpetrators of genocide say they're 'good people'

A study of 27 defendants in the Rwandan genocide trial found that most tried to justify their actions by claiming they were 'good people'. Researchers analyzed testimony and identified two neutralization techniques: appeal to good character and victimization, which were used more frequently than previously known methods.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Problems·DateOct 5, 2017

New 'movie' technique reveals bacterial signalling in sharper resolution

Researchers at John Innes Centre developed an advanced analysis method to study bacterial signalling, enabling a comprehensive 'signalling map' for the key protein Hfq. This approach integrates data from multiple experiments, increasing our capacity to understand plant and human diseases.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateOct 5, 2017

Climate change and extreme weather challenge communities to be resilient

The documentary highlights New Orleans' efforts to create a master plan for future events as the 'canary in the coal mine' for climate impacts. The city's unique situation, with the Mississippi River altered after the great flood of 1927 and land sinking due to sea-level rise, underscores the need for planning and resilience.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 5, 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.

Do earthquakes have a 'tell'?

Researchers have discovered a potential method to predict nearby strong earthquakes by analyzing deep tremors. The study, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, found that changes in deep tremor patterns can signal an impending earthquake.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 5, 2017

New test opens path for better 2-D catalysts

Researchers at Rice University and Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a technique to probe through tiny windows created by an electron beam and measure the catalytic activity of molybdenum disulfide, a two-dimensional material. The study found that most production of hydrogen is coming from the thin sheets' edges.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 5, 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.

Prestigious award for pioneer of gold catalysis

Professor Graham Hutchings' groundbreaking work on gold catalysis has led to the development of a substitute for mercury, significantly reducing environmental harm. The gold catalyst has replaced mercury in PVC production, meeting international regulations and benefiting human health.

SourceCardiff University·DateOct 5, 2017

Road pricing most effective in reducing vehicle emissions

A review of over 60 studies found road pricing to be the most effective strategy to reduce emissions and traffic. Low-emission zones also encourage cleaner vehicles and reduce driving, leading to improved air quality.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateOct 5, 2017

Nerve study shows how cells adapt to help repair damage

Scientists have identified genetic processes that enable nerve-supporting cells to transform into specialized versions that facilitate nerve regeneration. This knowledge may lead to new drug therapies for peripheral neuropathies, a set of conditions causing numbness, muscle weakness, and sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 5, 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.

Researchers get straight to the heart of piezoelectric tissues

A recent study using the Sawyer-Tower technique finds no signs of piezoelectricity or ferroelectricity in pig aorta. The researchers tested the tissue's electromechanical properties and found it behaves like a standard dielectric material.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 5, 2017

What Earth's climate system and topological insulators have in common

Researchers found that the same mathematical principles governing topological insulators also drive equatorial waves in the ocean, explaining their persistence despite weather disturbances. This discovery could lead to new ways of identifying climate dynamics and deepening scientists' understanding of the Earth's climate system.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2017