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Science News Archive August 2017 - Page 18


Page 18 of 41

Hot spot at Hawaii? Not so fast

Researchers developed a method to analyze hot spot tracks and found most groups are fixed and relatively motionless, moving at about 4 millimeters per year. This contradicts previous findings that suggested hot spots moved as much as 33 millimeters a year.

SourceRice University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 18, 2017

Citrus: From luxury item to cash crop

Research reveals citrons and lemons were first citrus fruits to arrive in the Mediterranean, prized for their rarity and symbolic value. The study highlights the crucial role of Muslim traders in dispersing cultivated citrus across Northern Africa and Southern Europe.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalHortScience·DateAug 18, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Flexibility at work key to helping women maintain careers after childbirth

Research by University of Kent shows that flexible work arrangements can help women stay in their jobs after having a child. The study found that women who used flexitime were half as likely to reduce their hours, with those who used it before and after childbirth experiencing the greatest benefit.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalHuman Relations·DateAug 18, 2017

Novel approach to track HIV infection

Researchers have developed a novel approach to track HIV infection by identifying individual viral particles associated with infection. The new method reveals that uncoating leading to infection occurs early in the cytoplasm, around 30 minutes after cell fusion.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2017

Smart computers

A team of scientists from the University of Freiburg has created a self-learning algorithm that decodes human brain signals measured by an electroencephalogram (EEG) with high accuracy. The algorithm, based on brain-inspired models, can recognize and differentiate between various behavioral patterns from different movements, making it ...

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateAug 18, 2017
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.

Seeking the secret ingredient in the original smallpox vaccine

Researchers explore the origins of the smallpox vaccine, tracing its development from cowpox virus to modern vaccinia virus. The study sheds light on the intricate relationships between different types of viruses and lymphs involved in the vaccine's evolution.

SourcePublicase International·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateAug 18, 2017

Research reveals how physical exercise protects the heart

A study by the University of São Paulo found that aerobic exercise facilitates the removal of dysfunctional mitochondria from heart cells, increasing energy supply and reducing toxic molecules. Regular exercise can help prevent heart failure and improve cardiac function.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAutophagy·DateAug 18, 2017

Virus with an eggshell

Researchers found that avian flu viruses isolated from humans have the same gene sequences as those from birds, suggesting transmission through the mineral layer. The mineralized shell changes the electric surface potential of the virus, allowing it to adsorb efficiently onto host cells.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 18, 2017
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.

Despite benefits, half of parents against later school start times

A nationally representative survey found that 51% of parents support later school start times to accommodate their teens' natural circadian rhythms. Teens need 8-10 hours of sleep per night, but many parents underestimate their children's sleep needs, with only half agreeing with existing recommendations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateAug 18, 2017
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.

Special issue of Future Medicinal Chemistry explores immunotherapy edit article

A special focus issue on immunotherapy has been published in Future Medicinal Chemistry, discussing the discovery and development of novel immunotherapeutic agents for use as anti-inflammatories and cancer treatments. The issue addresses recent scientific advances and challenges in this rapidly evolving field.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalFuture Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 18, 2017

NASA gets a final look at Hurricane Gert's rainfall

Before becoming a post-tropical cyclone, NASA observed Hurricane Gert's intense rainfall of over 2.94 inches per hour. The storm's eastern side was experiencing powerful bands of rain, with some areas reaching up to 7.5 miles in height.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 18, 2017

How whip-like cell appendages promote bodily fluid flow

Researchers at Nagoya University found that Daple protein is essential for the correct arrangement of cilia on brain cells, enabling directional fluid flow. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind hydrocephalus and its related diseases such as asthma and female infertility.

SourceNagoya University·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 18, 2017

Scientists from the MSU studied new liquid-crystalline photochrom

Researchers have synthesized new liquid-crystal photochromic polymers with comb-shaped molecules that change molecular orientation under external fields, forming coatings and films. These polymers exhibit photoisomerization and photo-orientation processes, allowing for control over phase behavior and optical properties.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·DateAug 18, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Lasers used to detect risk of heart attack and stroke

A new diagnostic tool uses near-infrared light to identify high-risk arterial plaques, which can lead to blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes. By selectively identifying rupture-prone deposits, doctors may be able to detect the threat of an imminent heart attack earlier.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2017

Mechanisms explaining positional diversity of the hindlimb in tetrapod evolution

A study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution found that the protein GDF11 plays a crucial role in determining the position of the hindlimb in tetrapods. The researchers discovered that species-specific hindlimb positioning is linked to changes in the timing or rate of GDF11 expression during embryonic development.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 18, 2017

Paper: Clinical signs best predictors of mortality in critically ill calves

A new study suggests that clinical signs, such as gastrointestinal problems and septic arthritis, are better indicators of mortality in neonatal calves with diarrhea than blood pH levels. The research found that these clinical signs were significant determinants of mortality, while blood pH levels were only a predictor when they droppe...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 18, 2017
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.

GIST tumors linked to NF1 mutations, genetic testing needed

Researchers have found a high frequency of GISTs with NF1 gene mutations in the duodenal-jejunal flexure. This discovery highlights the importance of genomic testing for patients with GIST and potentially affected family members.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJCO Precision Oncology·DateAug 18, 2017

Spoiler alert: Computer simulations provide preview of next week's eclipse

Researchers used supercomputers to create highly-detailed solar simulations, timed to the moment of the eclipse, which provided a preview of the solar corona's appearance. The simulations included improved treatments of energy transport and magnetic shear, increasing the accuracy of the predictions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateAug 18, 2017

A map of the cell's power station

Scientists from the University of Freiburg successfully mapped the mitochondrial protein landscape, revealing over 200 new proteins not previously attributed to this organelle. This study provides a basis for studying the potential new functions of mitochondria and understanding various diseases.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2017

Ocean channel in Bahamas marks genetic divide in Brazilian free-tailed bats

A study found a dramatic genetic rift between bat populations on either side of the Northwest and Northeast Providence Channels in the Bahamas. The researchers suggest that bats from Florida colonized the northern islands while those from other parts of the Caribbean likely colonized the southern Bahamas.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateAug 18, 2017

UH receives $3.3 million from state cancer research program

The University of Houston has received a $2 million grant to recruit cancer researcher Rohith Reddy, who will focus on next-generation technologies for detecting gynecological cancers. The institution also received a $1.3 million grant to expand tobacco cessation programs in substance abuse treatment centers.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 18, 2017
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.

Potato waste processing may be the road to enhanced food waste conversion

Penn State researchers have developed a novel approach to efficiently convert potato waste into ethanol, achieving a maximum ethanol concentration of 37.93 grams per liter in a co-culture biofilm reactor. The process eliminates the need for externally added enzymes and energy costs, reducing production costs and increasing productivity.

SourcePenn State·JournalFuel·DateAug 17, 2017

Pioneering research reveals how altered brain networks can lead to seizures

Researchers developed a method to identify brain tissue most likely to generate seizures in people with epilepsy, offering new treatment strategies for drug-resistant cases. By analyzing EEG recordings and mathematical modeling, the team found that targeting specific brain regions could lead to enhanced surgical outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 17, 2017

Ocean exploration uncovers one of Cuba's hidden natural treasures

Scientists from the US and Cuba have discovered healthy and nearly pristine mesophotic coral reefs off Cuba's coast, with many sites suitable for potential creation of marine protected areas. The expedition resulted in thousands of dive notes, underwater photos and video, documenting diverse marine organisms and new species.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·DateAug 17, 2017
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.

Solutal Marangoni flows of miscible liquid drive transport without surface contamination

A research team led by Professor Hyoungsoo Kim quantified the Marangoni effect in miscible liquids, revealing a new mechanism for driving transport without surface contamination. The findings have potential applications in removing impurities from surfaces and developing alternative materials to surfactants.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 17, 2017

How the genome sets its functional micro-architecture

Researchers at EPFL studied the TADs involved in digit development, finding that they can host multiple associations between genes and enhancers. Disrupting the 3D structure of chromatin leads to remodeling of TADs, with CTCF mediating long-range DNA contacts.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 17, 2017

Contraceptive pill linked to lowered risk of rheumatoid arthritis

Research published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found a link between prolonged use of oral contraceptives and reduced risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. However, breastfeeding was not associated with a significant protective effect after accounting for influential factors.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 17, 2017
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.

Deep-sea sponges -- home to the next generation of antimicrobials?

A team of scientists from the University of Plymouth is developing potential new antimicrobials produced by the microbiome of deep-sea sponges. They have already cultured over 100 novel bacterial strains, some of which can kill MRSA, and are on the lookout for other applications in cancer, immune deficiency, and wound healing.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·DateAug 17, 2017

Reprogrammed cells rescue infertility in mice

Researchers reprogrammed cells carrying an extra chromosome in mice, resulting in the loss of the extra chromosome. This technique, known as trisomy-biased chromosome loss, successfully generated fertile offspring and offers a potential solution to infertility related to extra chromosomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 17, 2017

Scientist emphasizes importance of multi-level thinking

The paper highlights the value of considering multiple viewpoints and levels of description to tackle complex scientific and philosophical questions. By recognizing unconscious assumptions and leveraging the strengths of both brain hemispheres, science can achieve more powerful problem-solving.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 17, 2017

An unusual white dwarf may be a supernova leftover

Astronomers have discovered a white dwarf with low mass, high velocity and strange composition that may be the remnants of a Type Iax supernova. The calculated age of the explosion suggests it occurred between five and 50 million years ago.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 17, 2017
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.

A better way to measure mortality trends?

Researchers analyzed years of life lost due to top causes of death in the US from 1995 to 2015, revealing disparities and successes. Life-years lost showed that cancer caused more life-years lost than heart disease, despite heart disease being the leading cause of death.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateAug 17, 2017

Researchers develop dissolvable, easy-to-use milk capsules

Developed by Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg researchers, the dissolvable milk capsules are made from a crystalline crust that easily dissolves in hot liquid. The production process is relatively simple and can be used for various liquids, including fruit juice concentrate.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalChemical Engineering & Technology·DateAug 17, 2017

Computer approaches human skill for first time in mapping brain

A WSU research team developed a computer algorithm that accurately maps brain neural networks, similar to human performance, which could speed up the analysis of brain circuitry. This breakthrough could lead to improved understanding of devastating brain diseases and more efficient treatments.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBioinformatics·DateAug 17, 2017
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.

What's the best strategy to increase living kidney donation?

A new analysis suggests that targeted educational interventions can improve living kidney donation rates. The study found significant benefits from educating both the potential recipient and their close social network, highlighting a promising approach to increase living donor kidney transplantation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 17, 2017

New method identifies brain regions most likely to cause epilepsy seizures

A new mathematical approach has identified brain regions that contribute most to epilepsy seizures, allowing surgeons to select specific areas for removal. The method has shown promise in reducing the number of seizures experienced by patients, providing a potential breakthrough in epilepsy treatment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 17, 2017

Gold nanostars and immunotherapy vaccinate mice against cancer

A new treatment combines gold nanostars and immunotherapy to treat cancer. The treatment successfully cured two mice and vaccinated one mouse against the disease. By destroying tumors and triggering the immune system, the treatment activates immunity against remaining cancerous cells.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 17, 2017

NIH funds Rosalind Franklin University study on role of oxytocin in anxiety

Researchers at Rosalind Franklin University are investigating the role of oxytocin in stress-induced psychiatric disorders, aiming to identify new targets for pharmacotherapy. The study has the potential to shed light on commonalities and differences in fear and anxiety circuitry between males and females.

SourceRosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science·DateAug 17, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Slowing dangerous bacteria may be more effective than killing them, researchers report

A new study reveals that manipulating bacterial communication can help the body defeat an infection without causing drug-resistant strains. By targeting the dormancy-signal molecule, researchers hope to develop molecules that can disrupt specific bacteria's language, reducing resistance development.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2017

Scientists identify central neural circuit for itch sensation

Researchers have discovered a critical neural pathway that transmits itch signals from the spinal cord to the brain, with the parabrachial nucleus identified as a first relay. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying itch signal processing and offers potential targets for therapeutic treatment of chronic itching.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateAug 17, 2017

College freshmen who weighed themselves daily lost body fat

A new study at Drexel University found that female college students who weighed themselves daily lost body fat and experienced modest BMI changes, while those who did not saw little change. The researchers suggest that daily self-weighing can motivate healthy eating and exercise behaviors.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Medicine·DateAug 17, 2017

Should I stay or should I leave?

A new study investigates the decision-making process in relationships, revealing common pros and cons of staying versus leaving. Participants weighed reasons such as emotional intimacy, investment, and personality traits, with married individuals citing more constraint-based reasons for staying.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateAug 17, 2017
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.

Mind flex

A Harvard Medical School study found that neurons involved in learning and memory are less stable than previously thought, but more flexible. This flexibility allows the brain to easily integrate new information and adapt to changing circumstances.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateAug 17, 2017

Study of nervous system cells can help to understand degenerative diseases

A new study reveals significant differences in the genes expressed by human and mouse microglia, with unique human genes playing a crucial role in immune response. The findings provide valuable insights for studying neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 17, 2017