Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 16, 2015


Genes involved in schizophrenia and obesity highlighted

A new UCL study has highlighted genes involved in schizophrenia and obesity, which could aid in developing improved prevention and treatment strategies. Variants in CRHR1 and SNORD115 were found to be more common in obese subjects, suggesting that disruptions in these genes may increase the risk of obesity.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAnnals of Human Genetics·DateOct 16, 2015

The CNIO discovers a link between a rare form of anemia and cancer

Researchers have discovered a link between Diamond-Blackfan anaemia and increased cancer susceptibility, using a new animal model that recapitulates key characteristics of the disease. The study found that patients with DBA are predisposed to lymphomas and solid tumours due to mutations in the RPL11 protein.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 16, 2015

Automating big-data analysis

Researchers at MIT developed a system that can automate big-data analysis, identifying patterns and designing feature sets. The system was tested in three data science competitions, achieving accuracy rates up to 96% and completing tasks in just 2-12 hours compared to human teams.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateOct 16, 2015

Nuclear Science Advisory Committee issues plan for US nuclear physics research

The US Nuclear Science Advisory Committee has released a new long-range plan for nuclear physics research, prioritizing investments in particle accelerators and neutrino studies. The plan recommends focusing on existing facilities like Jefferson Lab's 12 GeV Upgrade to unlock new scientific opportunities.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

NASA's GPM sees Koppu menacing the Philippines

NASA's GPM satellite analyzed Koppu's intensifying storm system on October 15, revealing an eye forming near its center. Rainfall rates reached over 133 mm per hour in intense thunderstorms just southwest of the storm's center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 16, 2015

Future coastal climate not cool for redwood forests

A study published in Global Change Biology predicts that a warmer future with normal rainfall will leave California's coast redwoods with a significantly different climate than they have experienced for decades. The study also suggests that redwood forest bioclimate will expand by 34 percent northward from the coast of California into ...

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 16, 2015

UCI-led group suggests ways to better manage urban stormwater runoff

Low-impact development technologies, such as green roofs and rainwater tanks, can help reduce waste and protect natural stream ecosystems. Researchers propose a shift towards distributed infrastructure to capture and reuse stormwater runoff, offering a solution to California's drought and environmental challenges.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 16, 2015

Scientists find evidence of how incurable cancer develops

Researchers identified key metabolic changes that occur in patients with myeloma and those at risk of developing the disease. The findings suggest a potential drug target to prevent progression from benign MGUS to cancerous myeloma.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBlood Cancer Journal·DateOct 16, 2015

Scent is the route to the very best fruit

Researchers found that spider monkeys can distinguish between ripe and unripe fruit odors with over 70% accuracy, a skill honed through coevolution with tropical trees. The study suggests that a species' sense of smell is not inherently good or bad, but rather adaptive to their ecological niche.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 16, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UMass Amherst Computer scientists receive grant to enhance data privacy

The UMass Amherst team aims to develop tools and techniques that enable data management systems to protect private data from being used for unintended purposes. They plan to use differential privacy, adding statistical noise to query outputs to ensure accurate information while protecting individual privacy.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 16, 2015

Protein found in malaria could help stop cancer

Researchers have discovered a protein in malaria that can bind to a sugar molecule found in many types of cancer. This binding enables anti-cancer drugs to be delivered precisely to tumors. The findings offer new potential for treating various cancers, including melanoma and lung cancer.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 16, 2015

Nuclear transport problems linked to ALS and FTD

Three NIH-funded studies found that a genetic mutation linked to ALS and FTD impairs nuclear transport in neurons, leading to defects in gene expression. Researchers suggest therapies targeting nucleocytoplasmic transport may be effective in treating these diseases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Camels test positive for respiratory virus in Kenya

A new study found that nearly half of camels in parts of Kenya have been infected with the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus. The research suggests camels may be a major reservoir host for the virus and a potential source of infection in humans.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2015

Wayne State scientists make advancements that may lead to new treatments for Parkinson's

Researchers led by Assia Shisheva found a novel interaction partner of the ArPIKfyve-Sac3 complex in the brain, which binds Synphilin-1 and prevents its aggregation. This discovery may lead to new therapeutic approaches for reducing cytoplasmic aggregates in Parkinson's disease.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 16, 2015

Think again before tapping the install button for that app

A study by researchers at North Carolina State University found that mobile device users are more susceptible to security errors while multitasking. The researchers created a simulated app store experience and asked participants to identify the safest app, with only half choosing correctly.

SourceHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society·JournalProceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting·DateOct 16, 2015

What are these nanostars in 2-D superconductor supposed to mean?

Physicists from France and Russia have discovered magnetic disturbances resembling little oscillating stars in a 2D superconductor layer. These 'nanostars' are caused by a single magnetic atom and are more sustainable than previous observations, bringing us closer to developing quantum computers.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

CCNY research boosts optical fiber data speeds

Researchers developed a method to speed up optical fibers by digitally re-twisting data streams, using a technique inspired by MIMO technology in radio communication. The breakthrough could solve the insatiable needs of data-driven social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 16, 2015

Study questions dates for cataclysms on early moon, Earth

Researchers cast doubt on lunar impact date methods by analyzing meteorite-impact zircons, suggesting contextual information loss upon separation from host rocks. This may affect our understanding of the late heavy bombardment on the young Moon, which could influence life's emergence timeline.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalGeology·DateOct 16, 2015

Discovery about protein structure opens window on basic life process

Biochemists at Oregon State University have made a fundamental discovery about protein structure that sheds light on how proteins fold and change shape. The findings reveal the first direct views of specific details of one aspect of protein folding in a way that had not been considered possible.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 16, 2015

New Jersey researchers use neuroimaging to explore reading deficits after left stroke

New Jersey researchers used neuroimaging to investigate reading deficits in patients with subacute left hemispheric stroke. They found associations between phonological deficits and lesions in the anterior temporal lobe and mid-fusiform gyrus. This study may lead to targeted interventions for acquired reading deficits, benefiting indiv...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

Large solar storms 'dodge' detection systems on Earth

A recent study reveals that large solar storms can go undetected by current indices, which could lead to significant disruptions in power supply and communication networks. The researchers developed a new Local Disturbance index for Spain (LDiñ) to accurately assess geomagnetic perturbations in the region.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Space Weather and Space Climate·DateOct 16, 2015

Novel algorithm simulates water evaporation at the nanoscale

Researchers develop new algorithm to simulate water evaporation at molecular scale, matching theoretical and real-world observations. The tool enables the study of various heat transfer problems, including rapid cooling of computer chips and energy conversion devices.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateOct 16, 2015

New study to recruit thousands of parkrunners

A new international study is recruiting over 8,000 UK parkrun participants to assess the link between recreational running and osteoarthritis. The HALO study will follow participants for 15 years to identify potential benefits and risks of regular running.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateOct 16, 2015

The end is in sight for reading glasses

Researchers are developing a new eye lens that can adjust focus automatically, using liquid crystals to tackle age-related conditions like presbyopia and cataracts. The lens could be implanted in a quick surgical procedure, offering hope for millions of people affected by these vision problems.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

Nanodiamonds might prevent tooth loss after root canals

Researchers developed a new material fortified with nanodiamonds that can combat bacterial infections in teeth. The nanodiamond-enhanced gutta percha showed promise in preventing residual infection and promoting healthy tooth regeneration.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 16, 2015

Is black phosphorus the next big thing in materials?

Researchers at Berkeley Lab discovered unique thermal properties in black phosphorus nanoribbons, with high directional anisotropy in thermal conductivity at temperatures greater than 100K. This finding has implications for designing energy-efficient devices, as the lattice orientation of patterns can affect thermal conductivity.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

100 photos that can help prevent sickness, save lives

A new USGS guide provides 100 photos to identify harmful algal blooms in freshwater bodies. The images aid in distinguishing between toxic cyanobacteria blooms and non-toxic ones, helping communities protect themselves from toxin exposure.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateOct 16, 2015

How plants turn into zombies

Scientists at Jena University have discovered how bacteria infect plants by hijacking the regulation of flower development, preventing normal growth and sexual reproduction. The study sheds light on the molecular reasons behind this phenomenon, where infected plants 'become the living dead'.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

Nicotine gives brain more codeine relief, risk of addiction

Researchers found that nicotine increases the speed at which codeine is converted into morphine in the brain, leading to greater pain relief but also a higher risk of addiction. People with more of this enzyme may experience increased pain relief but be more prone to codeine dependence.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 16, 2015

Maternal influences

Researchers analyzed 640 pregnancies in 142 mares to understand the impact of maternal lineage on gestation length and foal characteristics. The study found that certain maternal lineages produce more female foals, with young and older mares contributing to this trend. These findings have implications for horse breeding practices.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2015

Subtropical expedition will help forecast UK weather

A team of scientists from the National Oceanography Centre are on a six-week expedition to the Bahamas to update and acquire data from ocean instruments. This data helps make long-term forecasts of weather and climate by feeding it into models of the ocean and atmosphere.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·DateOct 16, 2015

Anti-clumping strategy for nanoparticles

Researchers identified key factors leading to nanoparticles' instability and aggregation in industrial applications. The conditions include the electric force imbalance between particles and attractive or repulsive forces.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

Metabolism may keep cancer cells in check

A long-known tumor suppressor, pRb, works by restricting the activity of KDM5A, a molecule that regulates fuel burning in mitochondria. Cancer cells rely on fermenting sugars for energy, making them more vulnerable to metabolic therapies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 16, 2015

Big data in managing the future health of Singapore

The use of big data and analytics is crucial for managing chronic diseases in Singapore, where 48% of the disease burden is related to chronic illnesses. Data analytics can help identify patterns and correlations that improve healthcare outcomes and reduce costs.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalAsia-Pacific Biotech News·DateOct 16, 2015

Discovery opens door to new strategy for cancer immunotherapy

A study published in Science reveals a mechanism that allows key immune system cells to restrain their more aggressive brother cells, protecting healthy tissue from assault. By targeting this genetic pathway with drugs, it may be possible to convert these cells into cancer-fighting cells.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalScience·DateOct 16, 2015

Scientists demonstrate how to improve ultrathin CIGSe solar cells by nanoparticles

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin improved ultrathin CIGSe solar cells by integrating nanoparticles into the back contact, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced charge carrier loss. This innovative approach enables more efficient light trapping and absorption, paving the way for further design enhancements.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 16, 2015
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.

Marshall University research team publishes study in prestigious Science Advances

Researchers at Marshall University have identified a novel mechanism for blocking the signal by which the cellular sodium-potassium pump amplifies oxidants, leading to obesity and metabolic syndrome. The study, published in Science Advances, suggests that the Na/K-ATPase might be a therapeutic target for treating these conditions.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 16, 2015