Add BrightSurf on Google Email

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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