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Science News Archive January 2018 - Page 34


Page 34 of 37

Scientists reveal the 'Lego pieces' that form complex zebrafish movements

Researchers found zebrafish larvae use 13 different patterns of movement combined in sequences to respond to situations, revealing the 'Lego pieces' of complex behaviors. The study's objective computational method revealed novel features of behavior that are not obvious from human observation.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 4, 2018

Breast size dissatisfaction affects self-examination

Research from Anglia Ruskin University found that women dissatisfied with their breast size are less likely to perform regular self-examinations for breast cancer. Greater breast size dissatisfaction also leads to lower confidence in detecting changes and delayed medical consultations.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBody Image·DateJan 4, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Poor dental health increases risks of frailty in older men

Research found that poor dental health increases the risk of frailty in older men, with complete tooth loss, dry mouth, and other oral health concerns contributing to this association. The study emphasizes the importance of oral health for overall well-being and highlights the need for preventive measures.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 4, 2018

When is the right time to start infants on solid foods?

A recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that over half of US infants are introduced to complementary foods before six months, while 16.3% are introduced before four months. This deviation from current recommendations may lead to nutrient deficiencies, allergies, and poorer diets later in ...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJan 4, 2018

MSU studies investigate effectiveness of booster seats

Booster seats reduce minor injuries specifically among children aged 8 to 12, while car seats and seat belts appear equally effective at saving lives. However, booster seats may not be the best option for younger children due to concerns over premature graduation to adult seat belts.

SourceMontana State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Economics·DateJan 4, 2018

Aversion to holes driven by disgust, not fear, study finds

A new study published in PeerJ found that individuals with trypophobia exhibit a physiological response more associated with disgust than fear. The researchers used eye-tracking technology to measure pupil size and found that images of clusters of holes elicited greater constriction of the pupils, a response linked to feelings of disgust.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPeerJ·DateJan 4, 2018
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.

Mechanism for resistance to immunotherapy treatment discovered

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have identified a genetic mechanism that influences whether cancer cells resist or respond to immunotherapy drugs. The discovery reveals potential new drug targets and may aid efforts to extend the benefits of immunotherapy treatment to more patients.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 4, 2018

Pretty in pink and boisterous in blue?

A recent study published in Springer's journal Sex Roles found that preschoolers' ideas about what is appropriate for their gender can be easily influenced by colour labels. The researchers, Sui Ping Yeung and Wang Ivy Wong, recruited 129 Chinese children aged 5-7 from two kindergartens in Hong Kong and showed them cards and toys in di...

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 4, 2018

The window for saving the world's coral reefs is rapidly closing

Global warming is accelerating coral bleaching, threatening the future of coral reefs and millions of people reliant on them. The study documents a dramatic shortening of the gap between pairs of bleaching events, now occurring every six years on average.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalScience·DateJan 4, 2018

Tick exosomes may aid transmission of viruses to vertebrates

Exosomes from tick cells can transmit viral proteins and genetic material to vertebrate host cells, enabling the spread of brain-infecting viruses. This discovery suggests that tick-borne Flaviviridae viruses may use exosomes to drive transmission and dissemination within the vertebrate host.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 4, 2018
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.

Common birth control shot linked to risk of HIV infection

Research suggests that the DMPA contraceptive shot increases the risk of HIV infection by 40% due to its effects on immune function and genital tract barrier function. Alternative hormonal contraceptives with a different form of progestin may help reduce this risk.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrine Reviews·DateJan 4, 2018
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.

Frequency of coral bleaching has increased nearly fivefold since the 1980s

A recent study found that global coral bleaching events have increased in frequency and severity over the past four decades. Severe bleaching episodes are now more common than ever, affecting over 30% of cases, with the risk of such events rising by approximately 4% annually since 1980.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 4, 2018

MAA to honor authors of year's best books in mathematics

The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) has awarded the Euler Book Prize to Matt Parker for his book 'Things to Make and Do in the Fourth Dimension' and the Beckenbach Book Prize to Roland van der Veen and Jan van de Craats for their book 'The Riemann Hypothesis: A Million Dollar Problem',

SourceMathematical Association of America·DateJan 4, 2018
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.

How cholesterol contributes to age-related neuron impairment

A new study in mice reveals that excess cholesterol may be hindering the repair of fatty protective sheaths around neurons. Researchers found that phagocytes, which ingest debris, had internal organs called lysosomes overwhelmed with cholesterol crystals, reducing their ability to repair myelin.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 4, 2018

Researchers create novel compound targeting melanoma cells

Researchers have developed a novel compound called Corin that specifically targets epigenetic changes in melanoma cells, potentially leading to significant improvements in treatment outcomes. The new compound inhibits the growth of melanoma cells by targeting specific proteins involved in epigenetic modifications.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 4, 2018

A look into the fourth dimension

Researchers from ETH Zurich, USA, Germany, Italy, and Israel create a four-dimensional physical phenomenon in two dimensions using the quantum Hall effect. The team, led by Oded Zilberberg, demonstrates a virtual fourth dimension through topological pumping, enabling the observation of four-dimensional quantum Hall effect characteristics.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 4, 2018
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.

Overweight children more likely to underestimate their body size

A study found that overweight children tend to underestimate their body size, which can hinder efforts to manage their weight. The research, led by Associate Professor Silje Steinsbekk, suggests that accurate perception of body size is crucial for addressing obesity and related psychological issues.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 4, 2018

Rice U.'s one-step catalyst turns nitrates into water and air

Researchers at Rice University's NEWT Center have discovered a catalyst that converts nitrates into nitrogen and water, effectively removing the toxic pollutant from drinking water. This breakthrough offers a promising solution for addressing nitrate pollution in agricultural communities and improving public health.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJan 4, 2018

Bonobos prefer jerks

A Duke University study found that bonobos are more attracted to jerk-like behavior than helpful actions, challenging the idea that humans have a unique preference for kindness. The researchers observed bonobos preferring individuals who hinder others over those who help, suggesting that having powerful allies may be key to their socia...

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 4, 2018

How genes will save or fail birds in the face of climate change

A new study analyzing yellow warbler genomes finds that genes associated with exploratory and migratory behavior may be important for successful climate adaptation. Precipitation is the climate factor with the strongest association with specific genomic traits.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 4, 2018

Unlike people, bonobos don't 'look for the helpers'

A study on bonobos reveals they consistently prefer hinderers over helpers, unlike human infants who naturally favor helpers. This finding suggests that the motivation to cooperate may be uniquely human and could have evolved after our species diverged from other apes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 4, 2018
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.

New brainstem changes identified in Parkinson's disease

Researchers have found that patients with Parkinson's disease have more errors in mitochondrial DNA within the brainstem, leading to increased cell death. Surviving cells have higher copies of mitochondrial DNA, suggesting a new target for therapies.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJan 4, 2018

Discovering the structure of RNA

A new study develops an innovative simulation model to predict the three-dimensional conformation of ribonucleic acid molecules, overcoming limitations of existing models. The model shows promising results in predicting RNA structures, with potential implications for basic research and medical therapies.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 4, 2018

Stressed out? Try smelling your partner's shirt

Women who smelled their partner's shirt felt less stressed before and after a stress test. The study found that women who correctly identified the scent also had lower cortisol levels, suggesting the benefits are strongest when women know what they're smelling.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJan 4, 2018
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.

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, January 2018

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made significant advancements in identifying microbes linked to endometriosis, a condition that causes painful lesions and infertility. The lab has also developed a low-power neuromorphic device capable of quickly analyzing complex data sets, promising applications in scientific research.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalMacromolecules·DateJan 3, 2018

Researchers use 'global thermometer' to track temperature extremes, droughts

Scientists analyzed NASA's Aqua satellite records to find that rising maximum temperatures are affecting every ecosystem on the planet, from ice sheets to tropical forests. Temperature extremes coincided with severe droughts and heat waves across the globe, particularly in tropical regions and northern hemisphere.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology·DateJan 3, 2018

Study investigates impact of lions living alongside giraffe populations

A study published in PLOS One found that lions in the same conservation area as giraffes reduces calf populations by up to 82 percent. This has significant implications for giraffe population sustainability and conservation efforts. Giraffe populations have declined by 40 percent over the last 30 years.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 3, 2018
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.

Arctic clouds highly sensitive to air pollution

A University of Utah study finds Arctic clouds highly sensitive to air pollution, with particulate matter spurring cloud formation and amplifying the warming effect. The research suggests controlling airborne pollutants could ease Arctic cloud cover and slow down warming.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 3, 2018

Environmentally safe red glare rocket changes fireworks, soldier technology

Researchers have created an environmentally friendly red light flare using a lithium-based pyrotechnic composition, avoiding hazardous elements like strontium and chlorinated organic materials. The new formulation shows high color quality and purity, and the team plans to further optimize its luminosity.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 3, 2018
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.

New study identifies thermometer for global ocean

Researchers have developed a new method to measure the average temperature of the global ocean using noble gases in the atmosphere. By analyzing air bubbles trapped in ice cores, scientists can calculate the average global ocean temperature with high precision, providing insights into past climate cycles and modern ocean changes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateJan 3, 2018

Specially timed signals ease tinnitus symptoms in first test aimed at condition's root cause

Researchers have developed a new approach to treating tinnitus by targeting unruly nerve activity in the brain with precisely timed sound and skin stimulation. Human participants reported improved quality of life after four weeks of daily device use, while sham treatment did not produce similar effects.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 3, 2018

Direct genetic evidence of founding population reveals story of first Native Americans

A new study provides direct genetic evidence that the first Native Americans arrived in the continent via a single migration event, with the Ancient Beringians being an offshoot of the same ancestral population as Northern and Southern Native American groups. The findings suggest people entered Alaska before 20,000 years ago.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJan 3, 2018
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.

Agricultural parasite takes control of host plant's genes

Researchers discovered that a parasitic plant called Dodder can silence the expression of genes in its host plants, including those involved in defense against parasites. By targeting specific regions of the gene sequence, Dodder regulates the flow of nutrients to itself while preventing the host from producing defensive proteins.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateJan 3, 2018

Facial exercises help middle-aged women appear more youthful

Facial exercises improved middle-aged women's facial appearance by increasing muscle volume and reducing visible signs of aging. After 20 weeks, participants showed a significant decrease in age appearance, with average skin firmness and fuller upper and lower cheeks.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJan 3, 2018

Research reveals evidence of new population of ancient Native Americans

A new population of ancient Native Americans has been identified through genetic analysis of a 6-week-old infant found in an Interior Alaska archaeological site. The Ancient Beringians are believed to have split from East Asians around 35,000 years ago and lived in the Far North for thousands of years.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalNature·DateJan 3, 2018

Total-body PET: Maximizing sensitivity for clinical research and patient care

The new total-body PET/CT scanner will advance clinical research and patient care by providing better imaging data from the whole body, reducing radiation exposure and increasing sensitivity. This technology has the potential to change cancer detection and staging methods, as well as improve diagnosis for other systemic conditions.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 3, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Dancing backwards in high heels

A new study shows that female professors experience more demands and requests for special favors from students, particularly those with high academic entitlement. These requests can be emotionally taxing and affect career advancement opportunities.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 3, 2018

Could sugar be responsible for the obesity and diabetes epidemics?

Experts argue that sugar may play a key role in obesity and type 2 diabetes due to its unique metabolic effects, potentially beyond just excess calories. The World Health Organization describes the twin epidemics as a 'slow-motion disaster,' but critics say current recommendations targeting only calories are insufficient.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 3, 2018

Making solar energy more efficient

Two doctoral students at the University of Kansas have demonstrated methods to improve the capture of sunlight in experiments at the Center for Design Research. By analyzing data from a year-long study on rooftop materials, they found that panels installed over green roofs performed best, generating an average of 1.4% more energy compa...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateJan 3, 2018

Tailoring cancer treatments to individual patients

A team of researchers is developing complex computer models to predict how cancer will progress in individual patients. They use advanced computing resources, including those at the Texas Advanced Computing Center, to analyze patient-specific data from imaging tests and biopsies, as well as other factors.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalComputer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering·DateJan 3, 2018
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.

Physicists build muscle for shape-changing, cell-sized robots

Researchers have developed a robot exoskeleton that can rapidly change its shape in response to chemical or thermal changes, enabling the creation of autonomous micron-scale machines. The graphene-based bimorph technology allows for the production of tiny robots with electronic, photonic and chemical payloads.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 3, 2018

New lithium-rich battery could last much longer

A new lithium-rich battery developed by Northwestern University can cycle more lithium ions than its common counterpart, enabling higher capacity batteries that could extend the lifespan of smartphones and cars. By leveraging both iron and oxygen to drive the chemical reaction, the battery's capacity is significantly increased.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 3, 2018

Study uncovers key to preventing back pain in runners

A new study from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center suggests that weak deep core muscles increase the risk of low back pain in runners. By analyzing muscle movements and pressure on joints, researchers found that planks and stabilizing exercises are essential for preventing back pain.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateJan 3, 2018

Stem cell transplant for severe scleroderma improves survival, quality of life

A new clinical trial has shown that a stem cell transplant regimen can improve survival and quality of life for people with severe scleroderma. The study found myeloablative autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant to be superior to treatment with the immune-suppressing drug cyclophosphamide, offering significantly greater long-te...

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 3, 2018