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Science News Archive February 2018


Page 3 of 36

Maize fields entice geese to winter in Denmark

A study found that half of pink-footed geese migrating to Denmark now stay for the winter, exploiting maize crops. This change is driven by increasing food availability, which may lead to agricultural conflicts and air traffic issues.

As summers get warmer, more rain may not be better than less

As climate change raises summer temperatures, research suggests that wetter summers could produce unexpected impacts such as disease outbreaks and crop failures. Subtropical and temperate regions are expected to experience warmer, wetter extremes, threatening ecosystems and human communities.

'Random walk' of heat carriers in amorphous polymers

The study investigates how chain conformation influences thermal conductivity in amorphous polymers, revealing that ultra-thin polymer nanofibers exhibit higher thermal conductivity due to aligned molecular chains. An empirical function is proposed to describe the diameter dependence of chain conformation.

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.

Black holes from small galaxies might emit gamma rays

Research suggests that small galaxies with smaller black holes can also produce powerful gamma-ray jets, a phenomenon previously thought to be exclusive to massive galaxies. This discovery has the potential to shift our understanding of astrophysics and blur the lines between different types of active galaxies.

Precision cancer medicine are developed with artificial intelligence methods

Researchers at Åbo Akademi University and Moffitt Cancer Research Centre are developing AI-driven precision cancer medicine to identify effective multi-drug therapies for each patient. The project combines molecular data with network modelling to analyze interactions between drugs and inhibitors, reducing the risk of drug resistance.

Search for first stars uncovers 'dark matter'

Researchers at Arizona State University and Tel Aviv University have discovered dark matter using radio wave signals from the early universe. The detection provides direct proof that dark matter exists and is composed of low-mass particles.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Disappearing act

Researchers found the Asian tiger mosquito vanished from Palmyra Atoll following rat eradication, as humans became the sole host for mosquitoes to feed on. The study highlights a potential new approach to combatting mosquito-borne diseases by eradicating key hosts.

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.

Familial breast cancer not only inherited genetically, finds new study

Researchers at the University of Melbourne identified 24 previously unknown epigenetic changes that alter a woman's risk of breast cancer and can be passed down through generations. These changes, related to DNA methylation, were found in only approximately 20% of women with familial breast cancer who underwent genetic testing.

Are varicose veins associated with increased risk of blood clot?

Researchers found a potential link between varicose veins and deep venous thrombosis, but more research is needed to confirm the association. The study also suggests that varicose veins may be associated with an increased risk of peripheral artery disease and pulmonary embolism.

Novel genome platform reveals new HIV targets

Researchers developed a high-throughput imaging-based approach to investigate protein stability, identifying previously unknown human proteins targeted by HIV. The platform has broad applications in diseases such as Alzheimer's, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists link genes to brain anatomy in autism

Scientists have discovered genes linked to individual differences in brain anatomy in autistic children, with variation in cortex thickness and gene activity involved. The study provides the first evidence linking differences in the autistic brain to specific genes with atypical gene activity.

A bacterium that attacks burn victims will soon be unarmed

Researchers discovered that Pseudomonas aeruginosa rapidly overexpresses genes coding for proteins capturing host's iron and uses lactate, lipids, and collagen as nutrients. This knowledge opens the way to develop innovative treatments to counter its strategies.

Unpacking asymmetric cell division

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School investigated the role of phosphatidylinositol lipids and proteins in asymmetric cell division, a process vital for producing mature brain cells. They discovered a new protein called Vibrator, which plays a key role in this complex process.

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.

When do aging brown dwarfs sweep the clouds away?

Brown dwarfs, larger cousins of giant planets, undergo atmospheric changes as they age and cool. Astronomers measured the temperature at which this shift happens in young brown dwarfs, finding it occurs around 1,150 degrees kelvin for objects 150 million years old.

Axons grip and slip their way around the brain

Researchers find that L1-CAM grips and slips on laminin to steer axons to their final destination. Disruption of this system leads to CRASH syndrome, a brain disorder characterized by neural disabilities.

Simulating molecular spectroscopy with circuit quantum electrodynamics

A team of researchers has demonstrated a proof-of-principle experimental demonstration on simulating molecular vibronic spectra using a 3D circuit quantum electrodynamics system. The simulator can model different molecules and obtain temporal correlation functions, electronic-vibronic coupling strength, and spectra of both equilibrium ...

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.

To build up mussels, you need to know your fish

A new study by Michigan State University reveals that conserving mussels is linked to protecting their host fish species. The research found that different mussel varieties are tied to specific fish hosts and prioritize conservation efforts must protect both. This understanding will inform the development of effective conservation stra...

Study reveals Milky Way stars being evicted by invading galaxies

A team of astronomers discovered that some stars in the Galactic halo are former residents of the Galactic disk, kicked out by invading dwarf galaxies. This finding confirms a new understanding of the Milky Way's history and future, revealing a complex interplay between galaxy interactions.

Survey shows Democrats and Republicans agree on Congress

A recent survey by NORC at the University of Chicago found that Democrats and Republicans are in agreement on how Congress should operate. Americans overwhelmingly believe that lawmakers should prioritize the general public's opinions over those of wealthy donors, political party leaders, or the president. Key findings include a majori...

Our reactions to odor reveal our political attitudes

Researchers found a strong connection between supporting a society led by an authoritarian leader and being sensitive to body odours. The study suggests that disgust plays a role in shaping ideological attitudes, with people who are more disgusted being more likely to vote for authoritarian candidates.

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.

Quantum optics: Attosecond pulses break into atomic interior

Researchers at the Laboratory for Attosecond Physics have successfully observed non-linear interaction of an attosecond pulse with electrons in one of the inner orbital shells around the atomic nucleus. This breakthrough was made possible by the development of a novel source of attosecond pulses.

Levels of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in England estimated to be 20%

Research estimates that at least 20% of antibiotic prescriptions in English primary care are inappropriate, with higher proportions prescribed for respiratory and urinary tract infections. The study highlights the need for better diagnostic coding and prescribing guidelines to reduce antibiotic misuse and preserve their effectiveness.

Running rings around cholera outbreaks

A study modeling cholera epidemics suggests that targeting vaccine and other interventions to areas around existing cholera cases is an effective way to control outbreaks. The results indicate that oral cholera vaccine is the most effective intervention, with a radius of 70-100 meters being optimal for administration.

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.

How do teachers integrate STEM into K-12 classrooms?

Researchers found that teachers who integrated more STEM concepts in their classrooms were more critical of their instruction and sought ways to improve their practice. Student engagement played a key role in the success of engineering design projects, which provided context for students to understand complex concepts.

Largest Chinook salmon disappearing from West Coast

A University of Washington-led study found that Chinook salmon populations across the West Coast have declined in size, with Alaska and Washington showing the biggest reductions. Fishing pressure and marine mammal predation are believed to be contributing factors.

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.

Study suggests risk of ALS increases with more exposure to diesel exhaust

A study suggests that frequent exposure to diesel exhaust may increase the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with a stronger link observed in men exposed for more than 50% of their working life. The research, published in the American Academy of Neurology's meeting program, found no associations among women, highlighting the...

Diabetes drug use during pregnancy linked to child's weight

Children born to mothers taking metformin during pregnancy are at increased risk of having obesity or overweight, according to a new study. The research found that the medication crossed the placenta and affected fetal development, leading to higher BMI scores in children.

New insight on the formation of East Asian flora

Researchers propose two distinct floras, Rhododendron Flora and Metasequoia Flora, to represent core regions of the Sino-Japanese and Sino-Himalayan flora. The study suggests East Asian flora is relatively young, with most clades originating since the Miocene, and may be a refugial area for ancient relict plants.

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.

Tracking endangered mammals with the leeches that feed on them

A new study confirms the value of iDNA methods in biodiversity surveys, identifying certain ground birds and bats for the first time. Leeches can be used to survey more rapidly and confidently identify small mammal species, making them an extremely useful tool for conservation purposes.

New online tool gives 3-D view of human metabolic processes

Researchers developed Recon3D, a comprehensive human metabolic network reconstruction integrating genes, proteins, and metabolites. The tool revealed 'mutation hotspots' where disease-causing mutations occur, and how drugs affect metabolic reactions.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Challenging statistics of weather extremes

Researchers Raphaël Huser and Jennifer Wadsworth developed an integrated statistical approach to modeling weather extremes, eliminating the need for guessing dependence strength. The new model can handle different spatial dependence scenarios, from strong correlations to complete independence.

Individual quantum dots imaged in 3-D for first time

A new imaging technique uses a super sharp needle to nudge individual nanoparticles into different orientations, capturing 2D images to reconstruct 3D pictures. This method allows for the observation of defects in nanostructures like semiconductors and proteins, which can lead to better characterization and control of their production.

How does water change the moon's origin story?

New research suggests the Moon may be wetter than initially thought, raising questions about its origin story and composition. Scientists have developed models to determine whether a wet Moon is compatible with a giant impact formation, finding that it's not an unlikely scenario.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Simple urine test could measure how much our body has aged

Researchers found a substance indicating oxidative damage increases in urine as people get older, potentially providing a method to measure biological age. The study measured 8-oxoGsn levels in human urine samples from Chinese residents aged 2-90 years old, finding an age-dependent increase in urinary 8-oxoGsn.

Helpful, hopeful news for bone marrow transplant patients

A new imaging test can detect bone marrow engraftment as early as days after a transplant, giving patients and doctors a more accurate assessment of the treatment's success. This breakthrough could help patients avoid painful biopsies and rapidly respond to potential complications, potentially saving lives.

Children prefer distribution by equal outcome when they share

A study by Kobe University found that children aged 5-6 prefer distributing resources so everyone ends up with the same amount, rather than giving equal amounts regardless of initial amounts. This suggests that young children prioritize fairness and equality in resource distribution.

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.

Wood fuels key to easing food insecurity situation in sub-Saharan Africa

The study highlights the importance of considering access to wood fuels when formulating policies to deal with food insecurity in sub-Saharan Africa. Researchers suggest expanding sustainable biomass production and consumption, including agroforestry practices to ease the burden on women, who collect most firewood.

Obesity could be linked to early childhood behavior

A study by the University of Waterloo found that early childhood behaviors are strong predictors of adult obesity. The research team identified four clusters of risk: Inactive Screen-Users, Moderately Active Substance Users, and two groups with healthier behaviors. Public health efforts should focus on modifying these behaviors earlier...