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Science News Archive August 2017 - Page 38


Page 38 of 41

Food fight: Children's temperaments help predict dinnertime struggles

A study found that infants with inhibited temperaments are more likely to be hesitant when trying new foods, while those with exuberant temperaments tend to accept new foods. Researchers observed infant reactions to new toys and food throughout the first 18 months, finding a consistent relationship between temperament and eating behavior.

SourcePenn State·JournalChild Development·DateAug 2, 2017

Alkaline soil, sensible sensor

Researchers developed a portable x-ray fluorescence spectrometry (PXRF) device to measure calcium levels in soils. The device provides accurate data on 20 elements in 60 seconds, improving field assessments for soil scientists.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateAug 2, 2017

An app for the perfect selfie

A smartphone app developed by computer scientists at the University of Waterloo uses an algorithm to direct users on camera positioning for optimal photos. The app, which has shown a 26% improvement in selfie quality, teaches users about composition principles and can be expanded to include additional factors.

Clarifiying complex chemical processes with quantum computers

Researchers from ETH Zurich and Microsoft Research demonstrate that quantum computers can evaluate complex chemical reactions scientifically relevant results. Quantum computers can potentially calculate the reaction mechanism of nitrogenase step by step, but they will serve as a supplement to classical computers.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2017

Cracking the code of megapests

Scientists have identified over 17,000 protein coding genes in the genomes of two closely related megapests, providing a detailed understanding of their genetics and potential weaknesses. This information could lead to the development of new pest management strategies and reduce control costs by billions of dollars annually.

Millions may face protein deficiency as a result of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health finds that rising CO2 levels may lead to a decline in the nutritional value of staple crops, increasing the risk of dietary deficiencies among vulnerable populations. The study estimates that up to 150 million people may be at risk of protein deficiency due to elevated CO2 levels.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateAug 2, 2017

Where there's fire, there's smoke -- and social media

A Colorado State University study shows a strong correlation between Facebook posts about visible smoke and commonly used datasets for estimating smoke exposure. The researchers found that Facebook was a better tool than satellite data in pinpointing smoke exposure, with daily maps of Facebook posts matching standard smoke monitoring s...

SourceColorado State University·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateAug 2, 2017

Marriage of microscopy techniques reveals 3-D structure of critical protein complex

Researchers at the Stowers Institute have solved the three-dimensional structure of the synaptonemal complex, a critical protein complex that ensures proper chromosome sorting during meiosis. The structure is composed of two railroad tracks stacked on top of each other, connecting homologous chromosomes and ensuring smooth cell division.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2017

From a memory too strong to a memory too weak

Researchers at the University Medical Center Goettingen identified a molecular link between PTSD and Alzheimer's disease, specifically Formin 2. Formin 2 mutant mice show PTSD phenotypes at an early age and develop age-related memory decline.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 2, 2017