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Science News Archive September 2016 - Page 10


Page 10 of 12

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

'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

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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
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.

Genome-wide Toxoplasma screen reveals mechanisms of parasitic infections

A genome-wide CRISPR screen in Toxoplasma identifies essential apicomplexan genes contributing to parasite fitness during human cell infection. The study also reveals a protein called claudin-like apicomplexan microneme protein (CLAMP) with a strong effect on the parasite's invasion of host cells.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateSep 1, 2016

The threat of group extinction proves a powerful motivator

Researchers found that group extinction significantly increases cooperation within groups, with contributions averaging 92% of the endowment. This effect persists even after removal of the selection mechanism, suggesting that the threat of group extinction is a powerful motivator for cooperation.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 1, 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.

Technology and innovation not driven by climate change

A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that climate change was not a primary driver of technological innovation among Stone Age humans. Researchers analyzed animal remains from South Africa's southern Cape, finding that human populations were able to absorb changes to the climate through resources like long-distance contact and ...

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 1, 2016

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Climate and air travel maps identify countries in Africa and Asia at greatest risk of Zika virus

A new study identifies countries in Africa and Asia at greatest risk of Zika virus transmission due to climate, mosquito presence, and large populations. The analysis highlights India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Nigeria, Vietnam, Pakistan, and Bangladesh as top countries, emphasizing the need for public health decision-making support.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateSep 1, 2016

'Gambling' wolves take more risks than dogs

In a study published in Frontiers in Psychology, scientists found that wolves are consistently more prone to take risks when gambling for food than dogs. The researchers trained 7 wolves and 7 dogs to choose between a safe option and a risky option with uncertain rewards, and the results showed that wolves chose the risky option in 80%...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 1, 2016

Zika reference strain sequenced -- Will aid in diagnosis, screening

A Zika virus reference strain has been sequenced to aid in diagnosis and screening of the disease. The strain will be used as a World Health Organization reference strain to identify Zika virus infection in the blood, making it easier to diagnose the disease.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalGenome Announcements·DateSep 1, 2016

Deadly duo

Researchers found that killer shrimps drove native amphipods out of hiding places, making them easy prey for round gobies. The invasive crustaceans played an indirect role in the decline of native species.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateSep 1, 2016
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Subantarctic seabed creatures shed new light on past climate

A new marine biodiversity study reveals the impact of glacial events on subantarctic seabed animals, providing insights into the extent of South Georgia's ice sheet during the Last Glacial Maximum. The research found that most seabed species have not moved far back to recolonize the coast despite having thousands of years to recover.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateSep 1, 2016

Keeping cool without losing your shirt

AAAS researchers have developed a new type of cloth that can reflect sunlight while allowing heat to radiate from the body, potentially reducing energy costs associated with air conditioning. The fabric, made from nanoporous polyethylene, passes 96% of infrared radiation through its pores, making it highly effective at keeping cool.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 1, 2016

A new tool for wetland management

Researchers at Utah State University have developed a new tool to help wetland managers create healthier, more productive wetlands. The computer model suggests altering water levels in individual diked wetland units and focusing on invasive plant control at a specific time of year.

SourceUtah State University·JournalWater Resources Research·DateSep 1, 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.

A missing influence in keeping diversity within the academy?

A recent study of science PhDs found that nearly two-thirds chose employment outside academic science, with reasons including autonomy, leadership roles, and high salaries. The researchers suggest that formal support networks could have provided an opportunity for URM PhDs to stay in faculty career paths

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateSep 1, 2016

Politics affect views on healthcare quality -- but not on personal experience with care

A recent study published in the Journal for Healthcare Quality found that Democrats and Republicans have different views on the quality of healthcare, but those with recent illnesses had similar experiences. The research suggests that political differences in opinions about government regulation may contribute to these disparities.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal for Healthcare Quality·DateSep 1, 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.

Study links autism severity to genetics, ultrasound

A study by researchers at UW Medicine and Seattle Children's Research Institute found a link between exposure to diagnostic ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy and increased autism symptom severity. The study suggests that current FDA guidelines may need to be revised to account for this potential risk.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAutism Research·DateSep 1, 2016

Parents' math skills 'rub off' on their children

A recent University of Pittsburgh study found that parents' math skills are associated with their children's performance on standardized tests and may be influenced by an intuitive sense of numbers. The research suggests that parental influence can play a significant role in shaping children's mathematical abilities.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateSep 1, 2016
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.

NASA's GPM sees increasingly organized Tropical Storm Hermine

Tropical Storm Hermine strengthened and organized in the Gulf of Mexico, with intense storms detected by NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission. Rainfall rates reached over 9.9 inches per hour in powerful storms southwest of the storm's center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 1, 2016

Unique health survey of Finnish cats reveals common and breed-specific illnesses

A unique health survey of Finnish cats has identified common health issues such as mouth, skin, and kidney problems, as well as nearly 60 breed-specific illnesses. The study provides valuable information for preventing disease and developing breeding programs, highlighting the importance of genetic research and improving cat welfare.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateSep 1, 2016

Genetic intersection of neurodevelopmental disorders and shared medical conditions

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles analyzed gene-disease findings to understand the co-occurrence of neurodevelopmental and mental illness with physical disorders. The study highlights the importance of a holistic approach to treating individuals, focusing on both physical and mental symptoms.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateSep 1, 2016

Dengue vaccine could increase or worsen dengue in some settings

Researchers find that a widely available dengue vaccine could worsen the disease in some settings, particularly in low-transmission areas. The vaccine has shown to reduce illness and hospitalization by 20-30% in high-transmission countries but may increase these rates in locations with lower transmission.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateSep 1, 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.

Are promises made to living donors being upheld?

A new study found that some living kidney donors are not given prompt access to transplantation when they need a transplant. The study examined data from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and found that only 40-50 prior living donors are added to the kidney waiting list each year.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 1, 2016

Synthetic heart valves could help surgeons improve surgical skills

Researchers at UBC Okanagan campus develop synthetic heart valves made of polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel, reducing the need for animal tissues in bypass surgery. The new material allows surgeons to practice techniques in a more realistic and safe environment.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalCardiovascular Engineering and Technology·DateSep 1, 2016

Researchers find vulnerabilities in cars connected to smartphones

A recent study found that MirrorLink, a system allowing vehicles to communicate with smartphones, has significant security vulnerabilities. Hackers can exploit these weaknesses to control safety-critical vehicle components, posing a risk to driver safety and security.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateSep 1, 2016

Making the switch, this time with an insulator

Researchers at Colorado State University have demonstrated a new method for switching magnetic moments of electrons in a thin film of barium ferrite, a magnetic insulator. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and lower power computer memory devices.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 1, 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.

Immersion pulmonary edema may cause swimming deaths during triathlons

A study published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine found a higher prevalence of heart abnormalities, including left ventricular hypertrophy, among triathletes who died during the swim portion of competitions. This suggests a plausible link between immersion pulmonary edema and swimming-related deaths in endurance athletes.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·DateSep 1, 2016