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Science News for May 20, 2016


Power up when the temperature is down

Researchers from Hiroshima University have developed a new re-chargeable battery that can operate at below-freezing temperatures, making it suitable for use in refrigerated factories or extreme winter environments. The eco battery has the potential to be cheaper, safer, and longer-lasting than current metal-based batteries.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalBulletin of the Chemical Society of Japan·DateMay 20, 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.

An integrated inertial microfluidic vortex sorter

Researchers developed an integrated inertial microfluidic vortex sorter for simultaneous double sorting of rare target cells and removal of background cells. The device achieved highly purified target cell products, even in complex samples containing orders of magnitude larger number of background cells.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateMay 20, 2016

Rapid rise of the Mesozoic sea dragons

Researchers from the University of Bristol found that marine reptiles in the Mesozoic era quickly developed diverse feeding habits and morphological adaptations, expanding their ecological niches. This study, published in Paleobiology, sheds light on the rapid evolution of these ancient predators.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPaleobiology·DateMay 20, 2016

EPSRC commits £15 million for formulation manufacturing research

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) has committed £15 million to support seven research projects across the UK. These projects aim to improve the complex formulation processes used in various industries, including toothpaste, inhalers, pharmaceuticals, and 3D printing. By developing new libraries of materials...

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMay 20, 2016

Bacteria in branches naturally fertilize trees

Researchers at the University of Washington found that bacteria in tree branches can fix nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for plant growth, without requiring root nodules. This breakthrough could significantly reduce fertilizer use and costs, benefiting agricultural crops and bioenergy production.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 20, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Modified microalgae converts sunlight into valuable medicine

Researchers have modified microalgae to produce complex molecules using sunlight, enabling efficient production of pharmaceutical compounds. The method offers a sustainable and renewable energy-based solution for producing chemicals, potentially replacing traditional methods that rely on plants or yeast.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalMetabolic Engineering·DateMay 20, 2016

Looking beyond conventional networks can lead to better predictions

Researchers at University of Notre Dame develop a new algorithm to more accurately represent complex dependencies in data, leading to better predictions for invasive species, shipping networks and infectious diseases. The approach can also be applied to other fields such as social media, telecom companies and urban planning.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 20, 2016

You are what you eat: Immune cells remember their first meal

Immune cells build a molecular memory of their first meal after eating a dying neighboring cell, shaping their inflammatory behavior. This discovery may lead to novel therapies for inflammatory disorders such as atherosclerosis, cancer, and arthritis.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCell·DateMay 20, 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.

Temperature influences gene expression, life cycle in vibrio cholerae

Researchers found that low temperatures trigger genes involved in biofilm formation, toxin production, and cold adaptation in Vibrio cholerae. Expression of virulence factors is reduced at low temperatures, suggesting a link to environmental lifecycle.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 20, 2016

Too much sex causes genitals to change shape, beetle study shows

A University of Exeter study on burying beetles shows that excessive mating can cause males to evolve longer penis-like organs and females to develop larger 'claws' on their genitalia within ten generations. This co-evolutionary process highlights the importance of sexual conflict in shaping biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEvolution·DateMay 20, 2016

Nematodes and tardigrades, and dung beetles, oh my!

The new atlas, compiled by over 120 experts from 29 countries, reveals a vast and underappreciated natural resource – soil biodiversity. With nearly 200 pages of detailed information, the atlas aims to promote sustainability and encourage research efforts to tackle global challenges.

SourceColorado State University·DateMay 20, 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.

Researchers solve the structure of the Zika virus helicase

Scientists have successfully obtained a high-resolution image of the Zika virus helicase, a key target for antiviral development. The structural information will help researchers design and develop effective small-molecule inhibitors to stop viral replication and prevent disease.

SourceSpringer·JournalProtein & Cell·DateMay 20, 2016

Could Hollywood technology help your health?

Researchers at the University of Bath's new CAMERA centre are applying motion capture technology to train elite athletes and rehabilitating injured service personnel. The team aims to automate the process of animating non-human creatures using input from human actors, with potential applications in healthcare, sports, and entertainment.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateMay 20, 2016

Taking control of key protein stifles cancer spread in mice

A new study reveals that suppressing a key protein, Chitinase 3-like-1 (CHI3L1), restores multiple antitumor responses in the lungs of mice, preventing cancer spread. Researchers tested an intervention that boosted the RIG-like helicase pathway, which counteracts CHI3L1's effects and decreases tumor-inducing responses.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 20, 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.

Rural, low-income moms rely on nature activities for family health but don't always have access

Research shows that spending time in nature promotes health and well-being among rural, low-income mothers and their families. Despite living in areas with abundant natural spaces, these mothers often lack access to safe and accessible outdoor recreation resources due to financial constraints and geographical barriers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Leisure Research·DateMay 20, 2016

Breaking down cancer cell defenses

Researchers found that inhibiting an enzyme adds palmitate onto proteins creates dependence on EGFR signaling for survival. Inhibiting this enzyme makes cancer cells more sensitive to EGFR inhibitors, which could lead to a new treatment option for lung cancers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 20, 2016

Graphene: A quantum of current

A team of international researchers has explained the peculiar behavior of electrons in graphene when passing through narrow constrictions. The results show that the electric current is not continuous, but quantized, exhibiting characteristic steps.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 20, 2016

Understanding the mechanics of the urinary bladder

Researchers review bladder mechanics, focusing on material testing and theoretical modeling to improve understanding and diagnosis of urinary disorders. They highlight the need for more accurate models to simulate bladder behavior and predict outcomes.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateMay 20, 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.

Researchers reveal how a new class of drugs kills cancer cells

Researchers discovered how a new class of anti-cancer drugs, BET inhibitors, kill cancer cells through apoptosis. The findings explain how cancer cells may become resistant to treatment and provide potential strategies for developing improved therapies.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalLeukemia·DateMay 20, 2016

In obese prostate cancer patients, robotic surgery reduces risk of blood loss

A Loyola Medicine study found that robotic-assisted surgery to remove the prostate reduces the risk of blood loss and prolonged hospital stays in obese prostate cancer patients. Compared to open surgery, robotic-assisted surgery was associated with a 83% lower rate of blood transfusions and a 72% lower rate of prolonged hospital stays.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalCurrent Urology·DateMay 20, 2016

'Canaries' of the ocean highlight threat to world's ecosystems

A recent study by Newcastle University has found that finfish populations have declined drastically over the last 65 years due to uncontrolled fishing, with five species now fighting for survival. The research highlights the urgent need for action to protect coral reefs and the ecosystem as a whole.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 20, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Graphene makes rubber more rubbery

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a composite material that combines graphene with natural rubber and polyurethane, resulting in increased strength and elasticity by up to 50%. The added graphene enhances the materials' ability to stretch and withstand force without breaking.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCarbon·DateMay 20, 2016

Nanotubes are beacons in cancer-imaging technique

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new cancer-imaging technique that uses carbon nanotubes tagged with antibodies to pinpoint the location of tumors. The technique, known as spectral triangulation, uses non-invasive optical measurements to determine the depth and coordinates of the nanotube beacons in tissue.

SourceRice University·JournalNanoscale·DateMay 20, 2016

Flawed data behind regulation of high-risk women's health devices

A study from Northwestern University found that some FDA-approved high-risk medical devices used in obstetrics and gynecology were not effective in clinical trials. The authors recommend increasing the burden of proof required for device approval and relying on higher quality studies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 20, 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.

Chemists settle longstanding debate on how methane is made biologically

Microbes produce methane by attaching a methyl radical to coenzyme M, contradicting previous ideas that relied on a nickel-based mechanism. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in designing energy-efficient catalysts for converting methane into fuels and chemicals.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMay 20, 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.

Probiotic bacteria could provide some protection against cadmium poisoning

A new study finds that probiotic bacteria can reduce cadmium absorption in the intestines of mice by mitigating oxidative stress. The research provides evidence that probiotics can inhibit the toxic effects of cadmium on the gut barrier, potentially offering a solution to heavy metal contamination in public health.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 20, 2016

ESC Guidelines on acute and chronic heart failure launched today

The new guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic heart failure, including the use of LCZ696 and adaptive servo-ventilation. The guidelines also introduce a new category for patients with mid-range ejection fractions and provide novel recommendations for preventing and treati...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMay 20, 2016

Computing a secret, unbreakable key

The University of Waterloo's IQC developed software to assess QKD protocol security, achieving perfect agreement with previous results and enabling exploration of new protocols. The tool enables users to analyze any protocol in seconds, a significant improvement over months-long efforts.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 20, 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.

A spherical brain mapping of MR images for the detection of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers propose Spherical Brain Mapping (SBM) to detect Alzheimer's disease, achieving 91% accuracy in differential diagnosis. The framework projects three-dimensional MR brain images onto two-dimensional maps, revealing statistical characteristics of tissue, and can be visually assessed for diagnosis.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Alzheimer Research·DateMay 20, 2016

Researchers find that Earth may be home to 1 trillion species

A new study combines large datasets to estimate the number of microbial and non-microbial species on Earth, suggesting nearly 1 trillion species exist. The research uses universal scaling laws to predict species numbers, revealing simple yet powerful trends in biodiversity.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 20, 2016

Researchers demonstrate size quantization of Dirac fermions in graphene

Scientists have successfully demonstrated size quantization of charge carriers in graphene nanoconstrictions, revealing key details relevant to future electronic devices. The study utilized high-quality samples and low temperatures to accurately measure the effects, closely following theoretical predictions.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 20, 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.

An all-on-chip method for testing neutrophil chemotaxis

A team of researchers has developed an all-on-chip method for testing neutrophil chemotaxis directly from whole blood using a microfluidic system. The method enables rapid and accurate analysis of neutrophil migration in under 25 minutes, overcoming labor-intensive traditional cell preparation methods.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateMay 20, 2016

Lingcod meet rockfish: Catching one improves chances for the other

Scientists found that selectively fishing for lingcod in closed areas can help avoid harming other fish species, including rockfish listed as overfished. The approach aims to balance the needs of fishermen with conservation efforts, potentially benefiting both groups.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateMay 20, 2016