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Science News for August 8, 2014


Scientists unravel mystery of brain cell growth

Researchers have solved a longstanding puzzle in neuroscience by revealing the three-dimensional atomic structure of netrin-1, a guidance protein that can attract or repel brain cells. By understanding how this protein works, scientists may be able to develop new ways to steer cell behavior and potentially treat diseases such as cancer.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNeuron·DateAug 8, 2014

Photo editing algorithm changes weather, seasons automatically

A new photo editing algorithm developed by Brown University computer scientists enables users to change weather, time of day, season and other features with simple, natural language commands. The algorithm uses machine learning to make subtle color and contrast changes across the entire photo.

SourceBrown University·DateAug 8, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Water's reaction with metal oxides opens doors for researchers

A multi-institutional team has resolved a long-unanswered question about how water interacts with metal oxides. The study reveals two dramatically different pictures of water-metal oxide reactions, one forming amorphous networks on smooth surfaces and the other creating structured domains on hydroxylated surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2014

Pinpointing genes that protect against frailty

A study led by Drs. Nir Barzilai and Joe Verghese aims to identify gene variants that prevent frailty in older adults. By building on previous research, the team hopes to develop drugs that mimic these genes' effects. The grant will explore biological pathways leading to frailty and investigate the role of exceptional longevity genotypes.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2014
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 culprit identified in metabolic syndrome

Researchers found that excess uric acid can disrupt normal metabolism, leading to the development of metabolic syndrome. A new study suggests that diet and fructose consumption may contribute to high uric acid levels, which can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2014

Disney Research's interactive method synchronizes multiple videos

Researchers have developed a new tool to synchronize multiple video clips based on the visual content of the videos. This makes it easier to align clips without relying on timecodes or external markers. The method can be used for various applications, including movie production and visual effects.

SourceDisney Research·DateAug 8, 2014
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.

Behind the scenes of genetics, leukemia in Down syndrome

Research identifies RAS oncogene involvement in DS-ALL cases, highlighting genetic insights into leukemia risk in children with Down syndrome. Geneticists sequenced exomes of affected individuals, shedding light on disease characteristics.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2014

Study measures steep coastal costs of China's GDP growth

A new study by Chinese and American conservation biologists quantifies China's recent economic growth on its coastal ecosystems. The research shows that after reforms declared in 1978, many human economic activities with deleterious environmental impacts increased markedly.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2014

Improving lymphatic function protects mice from experimental colitis

Researchers found that improving lymphatic function can prevent the development of both chronic and acute inflammatory bowel disease in mice. Silvio Danese and colleagues discovered that administering VEGF-C prior to the onset of IBD relieved symptoms, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for humans.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 2014
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.

Living organisms in oil

Researchers discovered microbial communities within oil droplets, degrading oil and reducing its quality. This finding could pave the way for new approaches to clean up contaminated groundwater.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2014

What does 'diversity' mean to you? The answer may depend on your race

A study published in PSPB found that racial minority groups approach diversity differently, with African Americans prioritizing in-group representation and Asian Americans considering national statistics on discrimination. Understanding these differences is crucial for creating diverse teams and organizations.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 8, 2014

Wiggly microRNA binding implies a more complex genome regulation

A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that non-canonical microRNA binding is widespread, targeting both protein-coding genes and non-coding RNAs. This suggests a more complex role for microRNAs in regulating gene abundance levels.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2014

Individual genotype influences effectiveness of HIV vaccine

A recent study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that an individual's genotype correlates with their ability to develop immunity to HIV in response to vaccination. Researchers identified single nucleotide variations in genes involved in antibody production, which were associated with protection against HIV infection.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 2014
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.

Parents part of problem in distracted teen driving, study finds

Distracted teen driving is a significant concern, with parents playing a direct role in the problem. According to a new study, more than half of teens talk on cellphones with their parents while driving, despite warnings about the hazards of distracted driving.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 8, 2014

Chu, Selvamanickam honored at superconductivity conference

Paul Chu and Venkat Selvamanickam are recognized for their sustained service and significant contributions to applied superconductor materials technology. The awards acknowledge their work in advancing high-temperature superconductivity, with applications in commercialization.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 8, 2014

Kessler Foundation scientists confirm effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation in MS

Kessler Foundation researchers confirm that cognitive rehabilitation in MS maintains patterns of increased cerebral activation correlated with learning six months after memory retraining. The study's results support the long-term effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation in individuals with cognitive impairment caused by MS.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalBrain Imaging and Behavior·DateAug 8, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Lead linked to obesity in mice exposed by mothers

Research at the University of Michigan found that lead exposure in mouse mothers is associated with increased weight and obesity in male offspring, as well as impaired insulin response. The study suggests that toxicant exposures during pregnancy can contribute to the obesity epidemic.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2014

Stem cells show promise for stroke in pilot study

A pilot study using stem cells extracted from patients' bone marrow shows promising results in treating acute stroke. The therapy was found to be safe and improved clinical measures of disability in all five patients.

SourceImperial College London·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateAug 8, 2014

Disney Research software systems add motion to physical characters

Researchers developed tools for designing mechanisms that achieve desired cyclical motion in planar mechanical characters and linkage-based sculptures. The systems enable casual users to create animated characters using 3D printing techniques, making it possible to bring creations to life.

SourceDisney Research·DateAug 8, 2014
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.

Expecting to teach enhances learning, recall

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis found that students who were told they would later teach a passage performed better on recall and organization tasks than those expecting a test. The study suggests that instilling an expectation to teach may be a simple, inexpensive intervention with the potential to increase learning ...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalMemory & Cognition·DateAug 8, 2014

Editing HPV's genes to kill cervical cancer cells

Researchers at Duke University have successfully used CRISPR gene-editing to target and destroy two HPV genes responsible for cervical cancer cell growth. By hijacking the bacterial defense system, they were able to selectively kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells intact.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateAug 8, 2014
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.

The immediate aftermath of an oil spill

A field experiment in the North Sea provides insight into the fate of oil during the immediate aftermath of an accidental oil spill. Researchers found that a fraction of the oil immediately evaporates into the air or dissolves into seawater, posing threats to aquatic species and rescue workers.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 8, 2014

Natural light in office boosts health

A new study by Northwestern University finds that office workers with natural light exposure have longer sleep duration, better sleep quality, more physical activity, and improved quality of life. The study suggests that architects should prioritize natural daylight exposure in office environments to boost employee health.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateAug 8, 2014

CU Denver study shows links between city design and health

A CU Denver study found that compact city designs with many intersections are healthier, promoting more walking and biking. The research discovered a correlation between wider streets and increased obesity and diabetes rates.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateAug 8, 2014

Work-related stress is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes

A study by Helmholtz Munich found that individuals with high workplace stress and low control have a 45% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The researchers analyzed data from over 5,300 employed individuals and identified the link independently of classic risk factors.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateAug 8, 2014

Ancient shellfish remains rewrite 10,000-year history of El Nino cycles

Scientists have found that ancient El Niño cycles were as strong and frequent 10,000 years ago as they are today. The new record, based on analysis of 25-foot piles of shells, contradicts a widely held interpretation of past climate, suggesting that current understanding of the El Niño system is incomplete.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2014
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.