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Science News for September 2, 2016


One vent just isn't enough for some volcanoes

Mount Etna's unusual crater formation is attributed to eastern flank instability, causing new stresses and pressures on the volcano's structure. This makes it a prime subject for study, with recent research monitoring its behavior over ten years to predict future eruptions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateSep 2, 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.

Crop domestication is a balancing act

A new study reveals that leaf-cutter ants have not fully domesticated their fungal symbionts, despite having a mutually beneficial relationship. The ants adjust the nutrient content of their mulch to minimize mushroom production, but this strategy has constraints on productivity.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 2, 2016

Babies chew on subtle social, cultural cues at mealtime

One-year-olds expect people from different cultural backgrounds to have varying food preferences unless they belong to the same group. This study highlights infants' sensitivity to subtle social cues and their ability to think in sophisticated ways about these differences.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 2, 2016

Memory for future wearable electronics

Researchers at IBS developed a two-terminal tunnelling random access memory (TRAM) with highly reliable performance, long retention time, and flexibility. The device stores data by keeping electrons on its graphene layer, enabling flexible and stretchable applications for wearable smartphones, eye cameras, and biomedical devices.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 2016

Large investment into brain research at Umeå University

Anna Rieckmann at Umea University has received a 5-year ERC Starting Grant to study the neural basis of cognitive functions using a new imaging technique combining fMRI and PET. This project aims to understand biological processes underlying brain activity, with potential implications for aging-related cognitive decline.

SourceUmea University·DateSep 2, 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.

Study validates TGen-developed test for health care-acquired infections

A new study validates a low-cost, rapid, and highly accurate screening tool, KlebSeq, for detecting healthcare-acquired infections. The test can identify multiple strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae, including antibiotic-resistant strains, earlier than traditional methods.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateSep 2, 2016

New knowledge about the building blocks of life

Researchers at Lund University have discovered the binding mechanism of DNA building blocks to an enzyme, a key step in controlling its function. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new antibacterial drugs targeting nosocomial infections, with potential applications for treating chlamydia.

SourceLund University·JournalStructure·DateSep 2, 2016

NASA animation shows landfall and progression of Hurricane Hermine

Hurricane Hermine made landfall near Saint Marks, Florida with 80 mph winds, and then moved into Georgia where it weakened to a tropical storm. The NASA/NOAA GOES Project created an animation showing the development of Hermine into a hurricane during the afternoon of Sept. 1.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 2, 2016

EEG recordings prove learning foreign languages can sharpen our minds

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that language learning boosts brain activity and increases neuroplasticity, leading to improved information processing. The more languages a person knows, the faster their brain adapts to new information.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 2, 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.

Circulating immune cells as biomarkers for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

A study by Helmholtz Zentrum München found that myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are increased in the blood of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), correlating with lung function decline. MDSC may serve as a biomarker for IPF diagnosis and disease progression.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateSep 2, 2016

A strange thing happened in the stratosphere

The quasi-biennial oscillation, a 60-year wind pattern in the tropical stratosphere, has been observed to suddenly change, sparking interest among scientists. The disruption does not have immediate impact on weather or climate but raises questions about its causes and potential effects.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 2, 2016

Parametric analysis on collapse-resistance performance of reinforced-concrete frame with specially shaped columns under loss of a corner column

The study found that increasing beam section height and lower steel bar rebar ratio significantly improves collapse-resistance capacity. Meanwhile, lengthening the specially shaped column limb only enhances stiffness, while slab upper and lower steel bar rebar ratios increase the frame's stiffness and collapse-resistance capacity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Construction and Building Technology Journal·DateSep 2, 2016

Osteoporosis: Antibody crystallized

Scientists at University of Würzburg have crystallized an antibody effective against Sclerostin, a protein involved in bone metabolism. The findings offer a promising treatment option for osteoporosis, a condition that affects elderly women and increases the risk of fractures.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalOpen Biology·DateSep 2, 2016
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.

'Ghost snake' discovered in Madagascar

Researchers have identified a new snake species, the 'ghost snake,' in Madagascar's Ankarana National Park. The snake's pale grey coloration and distinct genetic profile set it apart from other cat-eyed snakes found in the region.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalCopeia·DateSep 2, 2016

Important signaling pathway for leukemia cells discovered

Researchers have identified a specific signaling pathway in leukemia cells that enhances their viability and reproduction. The discovery highlights the potential for targeting this pathway to develop new treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL).

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 2016

DNA structure influences the function of transcription factors

Researchers at Max Planck Institute discovered that DNA segment to which a transcription factor binds can assume various spatial arrangements, altering the transcription factor's shape and controlling its activity. Neighboring DNA segments also play a significant role in modulating gene activity.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 2016

Early-onset spring models may indicate 'nightmare' for ag

A new study published in Climate Dynamics suggests that early-onset spring models may indicate a 'nightmare' for agriculture in the affected regions. The analysis of climate model data shows an increased frequency of nearly one in every three years by the end of this century.

SourceCornell University·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateSep 2, 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.

NASA sees Hermine's twin towers

A joint NASA-JAXA mission observed two persistent hot towers south and east of Hermine's center, influencing its strengthening. Repeated cloud-top height measurements suggested these towers, lasting 9-12 hours, could eject energy into the atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 2, 2016

Turn down the volume

A new IUCN guide outlines environmentally responsible seismic survey practices to minimize negative impacts on marine species. The guide provides a structured approach for planning and conducting low-noise surveys, reducing disruption of communication, stress, and behavioral changes in whales and other cetaceans.

SourceInternational Union for Conservation of Nature·DateSep 2, 2016

The supernova that wasn't: A tale of 3 cosmic eruptions

Researchers find evidence of two separate eruptions in the mid-13th and mid-16th centuries, and another in the 19th century, revealing a more violent history for the star system. The team uses NASA's Hubble Space Telescope images to track the movement of gas ejected by Eta Carinae.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 2, 2016
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.

Hereditary diseases are the price of protection against infections

The study found that balancing selection increases immune system gene diversity, which leads to a higher frequency of harmful gene variants. This suggests that our genetic adaptation to new pathogens comes at a cost, allowing some high-risk gene variants to persist in the population.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 2, 2016

X chromosome: The structure makes the difference

A breakthrough study published in Nature reveals that the fine detail of DNA shape plays a crucial role in distinguishing X chromosome binding sites from other chromosomes. The researchers identified a specific sequence signature called PionX, which is selectively recognized by the dosage compensation complex, enabling gene regulation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2016

Discovery offers hope for new Crohn's disease treatment

Scientists at the University of British Columbia have made a groundbreaking discovery that could lead to treatments for fibrosis in Crohn's patients. Researchers found a mutation in mice that prevented fibrosis after infection, targeting a hormone receptor responsible for stimulating part of the immune response.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience Immunology·DateSep 2, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

3-D graphene has promise for bio applications

Researchers have developed a porous, highly compressive 3D graphene material suitable for bone implants, demonstrating its potential as a replacement for titanium. The technique uses spark plasma sintering to weld nanoscale graphene sheets, producing materials with high mechanical strength and biocompatibility.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 2, 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.

Edible dormice: High food availability slows down cell aging

Researchers from Vetmeduni Vienna found that high food availability during the active season in summer contributes to a long life. Telomere length at the end of the experiment was directly correlated with food availability, revealing that a full belly rejuvenates the cells.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateSep 2, 2016

'Materials that compute' advances as Pitt engineers demonstrate pattern recognition

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have demonstrated pattern recognition in hybrid materials that can be integrated into clothing or used as a sensory skin for robots. The materials, powered by chemical reactions, recognize distorted patterns and can inform doctors about hand injury recovery or monitor cardiovascular activity.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 2, 2016

Low-cost and defect-free graphene

Researchers at FAU have made a significant break-through in producing defect-free graphene directly from graphite at low costs. This achievement paves the way for advancements in semi-conductor and sensor technologies.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 2016

The Genesis Project: New life on exoplanets

Gros has investigated the possibility of bringing life to planets with temporary habitability, proposing an automated gene laboratory on board a probe. The Genesis mission could be achieved within decades with interstellar unmanned micro spacecraft, potentially allowing for the development of complex life forms.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalAstrophysics and Space Science·DateSep 2, 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.

Trauma patient deaths peak at 2 weeks

Researchers found that patients with lower severity trauma have peaks in mortality probability around 14 and 21 days after admission. The study used the largest trauma database in Europe to analyze 165,559 trauma cases, including 19,289 with unknown outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·DateSep 2, 2016

A new technique opens up advanced solar cells

Scientists have developed an ultra-fast spectroscopic technique to track the fate of charged pairs in polymer:fullerene blends used in plastic solar cells. This allows for a better understanding of mechanisms and design more efficient solar energy converters.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 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.

Babies born with a low birth weight may be less active in later life

Research published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise found that babies born with a low birth weight are more likely to be rated below-average at school sports by their teacher at age 13. Those with a low birth weight were also less likely to participate in exercise and sports across adulthood, from ages 36 to 68.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateSep 2, 2016

Two MDC researchers win European Research Council grants

Systems biologist Jan Philipp Junker and molecular geneticist Gaetano Gargiulo have each received a €1.5 million ERC Starting Grant to study cellular processes in zebrafish and glioblastoma, respectively. Their research aims to understand the mechanisms behind variable phenomena in developmental biology.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·DateSep 2, 2016

For first time, carbon nanotube transistors outperform silicon

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have created carbon nanotube transistors that outperform state-of-the-art silicon transistors, achieving a current 1.9 times higher than silicon transistors. The breakthrough could pave the way for carbon nanotubes to replace silicon in electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 2, 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.