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Science News for August 18, 2016


Recording analog memories in human cells

Researchers devise a way to record analog memories in human cells by using CRISPR and self-targeting guide RNA strands. This allows them to track biological events such as inflammation or infection and monitor cell differentiation into various tissues during development.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016

Face changing technology showing sun damage is most effective at promoting sun safe behavior

A new study from the University of Surrey found that visual communication using technology to illustrate skin damage is most effective in changing behaviors. Young women who saw their own faces prematurely aged took twice as many free sunscreen samples and three times more skin cancer leaflets than those who received text-based messages.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCogent Psychology·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

NASA sees Tropical Depression 10W form near Guam

Tropical Depression 10W has formed near Guam with strong thunderstorms and cold top temperatures, generating potential for heavy rainfall. The storm is expected to continue moving north-northwestward over the next several days, potentially intensifying into a minimal tropical storm by August 22-23.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 18, 2016

Innovative device simulates cataract replacement experience

Researchers developed a handheld device called SimVis that simulates different intraocular lens designs, allowing patients to choose the best correction for their needs. The device uses an optoelectronic tunable lens to change shape in response to an electric current, providing a realistic visual experience.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateAug 18, 2016

Polyunsaturated fat in adipose tissue linked to lower mortality

A large population-based study from Uppsala University found a strong correlation between linoleic acid in adipose tissue and lower mortality among older men. The study suggests that consuming more polyunsaturated fats may reduce the risk of premature death.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateAug 18, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

More evidence that 'healthy obesity' may be a myth

A recent study challenges the concept of 'healthy obesity,' revealing nearly identical gene expression changes in obese individuals with varying levels of insulin sensitivity. The research suggests that vigorous health interventions may be necessary for all obese individuals, regardless of their metabolic health status.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Mussel flexing: Bivalve save drought-stricken marshes, research finds

Researchers discovered that mussels improve water storage around grass roots and reduce soil salinity, allowing marshes to recover from drought in less than a decade. This mutually beneficial relationship between mussels and marsh grass can help ecosystems bounce back from extreme climatic events.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2016

Diabetes drug may also offer vascular protection

A study by University of Missouri researchers found that linagliptin provided protection against arterial stiffness in overweight female mice fed a western diet. The medication works by blocking the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and has been shown to offer protection against vascular inflammation and oxidative stress.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCardiovascular Diabetology·DateAug 18, 2016

First 3-D map of cell-building protein linked to cancer

Researchers have created a 3D map of the doublecortin kinase like domain 1 (DCLK1) protein, which is linked to various types of cancers. The study provides new information on how DCLK1 functions and contributes to cancer formation.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalStructure·DateAug 18, 2016

Urbanization affects diets of butterflies: NUS study

A NUS study found that tropical butterflies are more likely to be flower specialists, preferring native plants and having shorter proboscis. Urbanization threatens these specialized species by reducing native plant availability, necessitating conservation intervention measures.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalBiological Conservation·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Female forensic scientists more stressed than males

A study led by a Michigan State University criminologist reveals that female forensic scientists face higher stress levels than males, with 78% reporting mid to high levels of job stress. Despite overall job satisfaction, scientists who testified more often in court and worked longer hours were happier with their jobs.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Crime and Justice·DateAug 18, 2016

X-ray optics on a chip

Researchers have successfully fabricated a millimeter-sized chip capable of splitting a beam of X-rays. The chip features fork-shaped channels that efficiently transport and split the beam, producing interference patterns similar to those in classical Young's double-slit experiments.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section A·DateAug 18, 2016

Pacific sea level predicts global temperature changes

Researchers found a correlation between Pacific sea level changes and global surface temperatures, with steeper tilts in the western Pacific linked to cooler temperatures. The study uses sea level data from 1993 to 2016 to estimate global surface temperature increases by the end of 2016.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Olympic stomach upsets -- leaky gut symdrome?

Researchers suggest that 'leaky gut' syndrome could be the cause of Olympic stomach upsets. The study found that zinc carnosine, taken alone or with bovine colostrum, may improve the performance of the mucosal barrier of the gut.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateAug 18, 2016

TSRI study supports new strategy to fight cocaine addiction

A TSRI study found that a compound blocking the activity of brain-cell receptors can reverse signs of cocaine dependency in rodents, supporting a new therapeutic strategy against addiction. The treatment reduced behavioral measures of cocaine use and dependency, accompanied by normal TrkB signaling activity.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Smoking marijuana provides more pain relief for men than women

Researchers found that men had greater pain relief from smoking marijuana after analyzing data from 42 recreational marijuana smokers. Women reported a small increase in pain tolerance but no significant decrease in pain sensitivity.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateAug 18, 2016

Natural scale caterpillar soft robot is powered and controlled with light

A team of researchers at the University of Warsaw has developed a bioinspired micro-robot capable of mimicking caterpillar gaits in natural scale. The robot harvests energy from green light and can travel on flat surfaces, climb slopes, squeeze through narrow slits, and transport loads.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateAug 18, 2016

Study shows how mutations disrupt ALS-linked protein

Scientists have discovered how ALS-linked protein mutations affect TDP-43's normal function, causing it to aggregate and lead to disease. The study found that specific regions of the protein play a crucial role in its concentration and processing.

SourceBrown University·JournalStructure·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Not all tumor cells are equal

Researchers found that colorectal tumors have different regions with varying levels of epigenetic changes, which relate to the tumor's growth rate and aggressiveness. This heterogeneity can be used to predict prognosis and treatment resistance.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 18, 2016

Canine babesiosis outbreak in UK under control -- but needs monitoring

A recent study by the University of Liverpool has found that a potentially fatal tick-borne disease called canine babesiosis in the UK appears to be under control. The study analyzed data from 2015 and found a low background level of Babesia infection in the UK, with most cases linked to overseas travel.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalVeterinary Record·DateAug 18, 2016

Neural stem cells in adult mice also vulnerable to Zika

Researchers discover Zika virus kills off neural stem cells in adult mice, raising concerns about its impact on the adult brain. The study found a 4- to 10-fold drop in adult stem cell proliferation, which could have implications for learning and memory.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 18, 2016

Study shows swimming is an effective part of the treatment for fibromyalgia

Researchers found that swimming was as beneficial as walking in reducing pain intensity and improving quality of life for patients with fibromyalgia. Both swimming and walking improved scores on clinically validated questionnaires, indicating significant improvements in physical function and mental health.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateAug 18, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Flexitime works better for men than women, study finds

A new study by the University of Kent found that schedule control increases overtime hours and income for both men and women, but men reap the greatest benefit. The research suggests that this may lead to a widening of the gender pay gap, even when controlling for factors such as occupation and ambition.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalEuropean Sociological Review·DateAug 18, 2016

A new way to display the 3-D structure of molecules

Researchers at Berkeley Lab create a nanoscale display case to reveal new structural details for challenging molecules, including complex compounds and potential drugs. The new technique stabilizes molecules in sturdy structures, enabling precise X-ray views of their atomic structure.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016

Cell therapy promotes axon remyelination in a mouse model

A new cell therapy product called DUOC-01 promotes faster axon remyelination in mice treated with a demyelinating chemical agent. The treatment also enhances the differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, suggesting potential for neuronal repair and remyelination in patients with demyelinating diseases.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 18, 2016

Researchers identify gene associated with age-related hearing loss

Researchers have identified a gene associated with age-related hearing loss in mice, which could lead to investigations into the equivalent human gene and potential screening programs to predict susceptibility. This discovery may ultimately inform treatment development or timing of interventions.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Neural stem cells control their own fate

Researchers found that neural stem cells in the hippocampus use the Drosha protein to regulate their differentiation into specific cell types. The discovery challenges the long-held view that stem cell differentiation is controlled solely by the local environment.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 18, 2016

Most island vertebrate extinctions could be averted, concludes new study

A new study reveals that controlling invasive mammal populations can prevent as much as 75 percent of predicted island-level extinctions for globally threatened vertebrates. The research identifies specific islands where conservation efforts will have the greatest impact, providing valuable guidance for conservation interventions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2016

Turning textbook highlighting into time well-spent

A research program at Rice University aims to create software that uses students' highlights to improve their comprehension and knowledge retention. The team plans to analyze volunteers' highlights for clues about their understanding of the text and conduct laboratory experiments to develop new software.

SourceRice University·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Brazil's environmental licensing under threat

Proposed laws and constitutional amendments in Brazil aim to gut environmental licensing, posing major risks to development projects such as dams and highways. This could lead to devastating environmental and social impacts, including deforestation and loss of biodiversity.

SourceNational Institute for Research in Amazonia (INPA)·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016

Blue Cut Fire in California spreads quickly

The Blue Cut Fire in California is a rapidly growing wildfire that poses an imminent threat to public safety, rail traffic, and structures in several areas. The fire has already affected over 82,000 people and damaged an estimated number of structures, with firefighters battling hot, dry, and breezy conditions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Common cold viruses originated in camels -- just like MERS

Researchers have found that common cold coronaviruses originate from camels, similar to the MERS virus. The study suggests a potential scenario for MERS emergence and highlights the need for a vaccine against MERS.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2016

Superconductivity: After the scenario, the staging

The University of Geneva team tested a scenario proposed by Anthony Leggett, finding it contradicts experimental results. The study reveals the importance of chemical doping in understanding high Tc superconductivity.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPhysical Review X·DateAug 18, 2016

Hawaiian fruit flies had multiple ancestors

Researchers found that Hawaiian drosophilids had plural continental ancestors, independently migrating to Hawaii at different times. The team discovered 11 non-Hawaiian Scaptomyza species and reconstructed their phylogeny, estimating ancestral distributions and divergence times.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalEntomological Science·DateAug 18, 2016

Unhealthy diet during pregnancy could be linked to ADHD

A new study suggests that high-fat, high-sugar diets during pregnancy may be associated with symptoms of ADHD in children who exhibit early conduct problems. Higher IGF2 methylation was linked to increased ADHD symptoms in these children.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 18, 2016
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

In cells, some oxidants are needed

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that the protein IRE-1 can react to ROS molecules, triggering an antioxidant response that increases cell resistance to stress. This discovery highlights the need to consider ROS molecules as links in cell pathways, not just as damaging agents.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 18, 2016

Scientists explain why Russian tuberculosis is the most infectious

Scientists have discovered a possible explanation for the high prevalence of Russian tuberculosis strains by analyzing their protein and genome features. The study found that these strains produce more proteins producing long-chain fatty acids and less proteins destroying them, making them more effective at evading the immune system.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 18, 2016

Zika infection of placental macrophages in culture

Researchers found that Zika virus productively infects primary human placenta-specific macrophages, with 10-15% of placental macrophages infected. The study suggests that placental macrophages may play a role in maternal-fetal Zika transmission and warrants further investigation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

UTEP researchers innovate brain preservation technique

Researchers at UTEP have developed a new brain preservation technique that allows for the study of brain tissue in remote locations without specialized laboratory equipment. The technique uses formaldehyde and can be performed with minimal resources, making it accessible to scientists in underdeveloped countries.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 18, 2016

Using nature's recipe to create mother of pearl

Scientists have developed a new method to synthesize mother of pearl, mimicking nature's process using an organic matrix and mineralization. The resulting synthetic nacre has similar mechanical properties to its natural counterpart, making it a promising material for various applications.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

New report presents bundled payment model for breast cancer screening

A new report by the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute proposes a bundled payment model for breast cancer screening, which could help reduce healthcare costs and improve patient adherence to screening guidelines. The model includes mammography and downstream diagnostic imaging services within a 364-day episode window.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

New oral diabetes drugs may also protect patients' kidney health

A recent study found that canagliflozin slows the progression of kidney function decline to a greater extent than glimepiride, while having similar blood sugar-lowering effects. The findings suggest that potential kidney protective effects of canagliflozin may be unrelated to glycemic control.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 18, 2016

Modifying a living genome with genetic equivalent of 'search and replace'

Researchers have successfully modified a living genome by replacing multiple codons with alternatives, paving the way for fully recoded organisms. The study, which reduced the number of codons in E.coli from 64 to 57, provides critical insights into creating functional altered genomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

An imaging method to quantify dermal fat

Researchers developed a non-invasive MRI-based method to quantify dermal fat, total WAT volume and BAT activation in mice and humans. Studies showed that dWAT thickness was highly variable between subjects and increased in genetically obese mice and those fed high-fat diets.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 18, 2016

Zika infection may affect adult brain cells

Researchers at Rockefeller University and La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology found that Zika virus can infect adult brain cells, specifically neural progenitor cells, leading to cell death and reduced neuron generation. This may have implications for cognitive decline and conditions such as depression and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 18, 2016
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Mount Sinai research collaboration identifies genes responsible for CMD risk

Researchers from Mount Sinai and international partners have identified specific genes that contribute to cardiometabolic diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. The study analyzed gene-expression data from patients with coronary artery disease and found genes that regulate blood lipid levels in abdominal fat.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016

Are urban black males shortchanged in classroom?

A new study by Michigan State University scholar Chezare Warren found that over-supporting urban black males in high school can have negative consequences for their academic success in college. The research suggests that balancing instructional and social supports is crucial to preparing students academically for college

SourceMichigan State University·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateAug 18, 2016

UCLA physicists discover 'apparent departure from the laws of thermodynamics'

Researchers at UCLA have found that ions subjected to buffer gas cooling never truly reach the same temperature as the surrounding gas, defying classical thermodynamic principles. The study reveals multiple final temperatures and highlights the need for nuanced understanding of the buffer-gas cooling process.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

TSRI scientists find potential treatment for 'painful blindness' form of dry eye

Researchers at TSRI have made a breakthrough in treating aqueous deficiency dry eye (ADDE), also known as painful blindness, by injecting regenerative progenitor cells into the lacrimal gland. The treatment shows significant promise in restoring tear production and repairing damaged gland tissue.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateAug 18, 2016

Born prepared for global warming... thanks to their parents' songs

Researchers found that zebra finch eggs exposed to recorded incubation calls weighed less and had lower oxidative damage upon hatching. This reduced mass correlated with improved health at high temperatures, leading to increased fledgling production in the first breeding season.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016

Predicting poverty by satellite with detailed accuracy

Researchers combined satellite data with machine learning to estimate poverty levels, outperforming nightlight models by 81% and 99%. The new method uses publicly available daytime satellite data, is repeatable, and inexpensive, offering a more accurate means to identify impoverished areas.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2016
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.

Homosexual termite regicide

In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that male Japanese termites form same-sex pairs when females are absent, allowing them to survive and potentially reproduce. This behavior is believed to be an adaptive strategy for future reproduction in the absence of females.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateAug 18, 2016

An unexpected finding

Researchers at UCSB discovered crystalline infinite iodide polymers, solving a centuries-old mystery of chemistry. This breakthrough has academic interest, but also potential for development of functional materials for new electronics.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 18, 2016