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Science News Archive August 2017 - Page 4


Page 4 of 41

Magnetic fields in distant galaxy are new piece of cosmic puzzle

Astronomers have measured large, well-ordered magnetic fields in a galaxy 4.6 billion light-years away, providing clues about how magnetic fields formed and evolved over cosmic time. The new observations offer insights into the structure of galactic-sized magnetic fields since the beginning of the universe.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 30, 2017

Researchers propose how the universe became filled with light

A team of researchers at the University of Iowa suggests that black holes played a crucial role in making the universe visible. By ejecting matter violently, black holes may have pierced cloudy surroundings, enabling light from stars to escape. This theory is supported by observations of a nearby galaxy emitting ultraviolet light.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 30, 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.

Cardiac arrests in black neighborhoods less likely to get CPR, defibrillation

A study by Duke University Medical Center researchers found that cardiac arrests in predominantly black neighborhoods are more likely to result in delayed CPR and defibrillation, which can lead to poorer survival rates. The study analyzed over 22,000 cases of cardiac arrest outside the hospital and found a significant disparity in CPR ...

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateAug 30, 2017

A big difference between Asian and African elephants is diet

A study published in Biotropica found that Asian elephants prefer to eat monocot plants like palms, grasses, and bamboo, whereas African elephants feed on tree saplings. This difference has significant implications for forest dynamics and human-elephant conflict.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBiotropica·DateAug 30, 2017

Silicon solves problems for next-generation battery technology

Researchers have discovered a way to improve Li-ion battery technology by replacing graphite with silicon, quadrupling anode capacity. The new material has been found to be more suitable when particles are sized between 10-20 micrometres and have the right porosity.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 30, 2017

Expanding access to new tools to study childhood cancers

Researchers have created laboratory models of 12 types of pediatric cancer, enabling the study of tumor development and sensitivity to drugs. The HHMI is making these models and related data freely available to the scientific community, aiming to accelerate the discovery of new therapies for childhood cancers.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 30, 2017

Improving earthquake resistance with a single crystal

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a cheaper production method to create single-crystal metals, known for their shape memory properties. This breakthrough could lead to mass-produced materials with improved elasticity and strength, ideal for building structures that can withstand earthquakes.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 30, 2017
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.

Protecting the guardians

Research in mice shows that gut bacteria play a crucial role in modulating the effects of a powerful protective gene against type 1 diabetes. The findings highlight the importance of early environmental exposures to a variety of germs in proper immune system development.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 30, 2017

Techniques used in forensic science help discover new molecular fossils

Researchers have discovered new molecular fossils of archaea using forensic science methods, providing insight into the distribution and timeline of these ancient microorganisms. The study used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to analyze sedimentary rock samples from southern China, revealing previously unknown fossils.

SourceTohoku University·JournalOrganic Geochemistry·DateAug 30, 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.

Hope for improving protection of the reticulated python

Researchers from Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research and Royal Zoological Society Scotland use genetic data to identify individual origins and potential trade routes of the skins. This helps in long-term conservation and verification of CITES documentation to restrict illegal schemes.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 30, 2017

Breakthrough in understanding mitochondria

Scientists have discovered that ribosomes, the tiny factories of cells that produce proteins, are attached to mitochondria. This finding provides new insights into the process of protein targeting and mitochondrial function, which is essential for understanding diseases such as Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEMBO Reports·DateAug 30, 2017

'Open gym' format shortens waiting time for cardiac rehab

A new study finds that an open gym format for cardiac rehabilitation shortens waiting times by an average of 14.9 days, compared to traditional scheduled appointments. The flexible scheduling model also showed no significant differences in outcomes, including exercise capacity and depressive symptoms.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention·DateAug 30, 2017

First-ever cancer gene therapy approved by FDA

The FDA has approved Kymriah, a CAR T gene therapy drug, for pediatric and young adult patients with ALL, marking a major milestone in cancer treatment. The therapy showed an exceptional 83 percent success remission rate in clinical trials.

SourceAlliance for Cancer Gene Therapy·DateAug 30, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Protein turnover could be clue to living longer

Scientists at the Salk Institute have discovered an errant protein process in a rare genetic disorder that could help healthy people live longer. The study found rapid protein turnover and enlarged nucleoli in progeria cells, which may serve as biomarkers for aging.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 30, 2017

Wolf behavior undeterred by tailings ponds and pit mines

A recent University of Alberta study reveals that wolves in the Athabasca Oil Sands region are undeterred by tailings ponds and pit mines when hunting moose. In fact, low human activity areas like these provide effective hunting grounds for wolves.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalEcosphere·DateAug 30, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Sequencing all 24 human chromosomes uncovers rare disorders

A study by NIH and other institutions has extended noninvasive prenatal screening to all 24 human chromosomes, detecting rare genetic disorders that may explain miscarriage and pregnancy abnormalities. The research identified risk for serious complications in pregnancies with high levels of abnormal cells in the placenta.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 30, 2017

Laser machining services for industry and R&D for medical and dental sector

Lasertools, a Brazilian company, has extended its use of solid-state neodymium-doped lasers to increase power levels and processing speed, making micromachining more feasible. The company developed laser manufacturing methods for biocompatible metal implants, including coronary stents.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 30, 2017

Stabilizing TREM2 -- a potential strategy to combat Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have discovered that stabilizing TREM2, a protein involved in neurodegenerative diseases, could be a viable therapeutic strategy to combat Alzheimer's disease. The study found that a mutation in the TREM2 gene accelerates its cleavage, leading to reduced full-length protein on microglia cells.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateAug 30, 2017

Fast-forward aging due to DNA damage

DNA damage accelerates aging in nematode worms, showing surprising similarities with aged humans. The study reveals comprehensive connections between metabolism, DNA preservation, and signaling pathways.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 30, 2017
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.

NASA finding Harvey's strongest storms

NASA used infrared data to analyze temperature information and locate the strongest storms in Hurricane Harvey. The analysis revealed that the highest cloud tops indicate the coldest temperatures, pinpointing areas of intense storm activity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 30, 2017

Tracking down the whale-shark highway

Whale sharks track ocean fronts for food and migration purposes, revealing a network of 'highways' across the Eastern Tropical Pacific. The study provides insights into whale shark behavior, informing conservation efforts and population estimates.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 30, 2017

Largest study to date evaluates occupational health risks to hardmetal workers

The largest study on hardmetal workers found no increased risk of lung cancer or death due to the substance's use in the industry. Short-term workers showed small excesses in lung cancer mortality, attributed to lifestyle and behavior factors rather than occupational exposure.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateAug 30, 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.

Smart tomographic sensors control industrial processes of tomorrow

The TOMOCON project develops imaging-based industrial process control using tomographic sensors, improving separation quality in chemical and petro-chemical industries. The network also demonstrates advanced technologies for industrial crystallization and steel casting.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·DateAug 30, 2017

Researchers tackle methane emissions with gas-guzzling bacteria

A research team has identified a methanotroph strain that can consume both methane and hydrogen gases, improving its growth and survival in various conditions. This finding has significant implications for greenhouse gas mitigation, as industrial companies can use these bacteria to convert harmful gases into useful products.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateAug 30, 2017

Jordan faces likelihood of much more frequent long and severe droughts

A new study suggests that Jordan may face disastrous droughts if alternative water sources are not implemented. Climate change and water scarcity could lead to a decline in rainfall, higher temperatures, and reduced freshwater supply, making it difficult for the country to meet its water demands.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 30, 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.

Hidden deep in the brain, a map that guides animals' movements

Researchers at Columbia University and the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown have discovered a map in the brain's striatum that guides animal movements. The study used miniature mobile microscopes to capture neural activity patterns of up to 300 neurons, revealing complex patterns of organization that reflect similarity in actions.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNeuron·DateAug 30, 2017

Shared custody equals less stress for children

A recent study by Stockholm University's Demography Unit found that shared custody arrangements reduce stress levels in children. Children living with one parent are more likely to experience stress due to the lack of resources and relationships, while shared physical custody allows for regular contact with both parents, promoting stab...

SourceStockholm University·JournalJournal of Divorce & Remarriage·DateAug 30, 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.

Exclusion from school can trigger long-term psychiatric illness

A study of thousands of children found that exclusion from school can trigger long-term psychiatric illness, including depression and anxiety. The research highlights the need for tailored support to prevent exclusion and improve mental health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateAug 29, 2017
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.

Study shows nurses' scrubs become contaminated with bacteria in hospitals

A study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that antimicrobial fabrics on nurses' scrubs do not prevent bacterial contamination. The researchers identified Staphylococcus aureus as the most commonly transmitted pathogen, emphasizing the need for improved cleaning protocols and hand hygiene practices.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateAug 29, 2017

NSF grant will study Kansans' inequality of broadband access

Researchers will conduct ethnographic research in public libraries to better understand the activities and needs of low-income users. A 'Digital Swiss Army Knife' prototype is being developed to provide password generation, secure access, and session protection on portable devices.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateAug 29, 2017

Poor sleep is associated with ischemic heart disease and stroke

Research presented at ESC Congress found that poor sleep is associated with increased risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke. The study revealed different patterns of sleep disturbance between the two conditions, with patients with ischaemic heart disease experiencing shorter sleep and brief moments of waking up.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

A new method to estimate total organic carbon content

A new estimation approach for total organic carbon (TOC) content is validated using well data from the Goldwyer Formation. The method provides reliable TOC estimates for wells inside and outside the Barbwire Terrace, as well as global lacustrine shale. This improves assessments of shale play prospects and potential hydrocarbon resource.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Petroleum Engineering Journal·DateAug 29, 2017
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.

NASA sees Sanvu strengthen to a tropical storm

Tropical Storm Sanvu has strengthened with cloud top temperatures as low as -63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating potential for heavy rain. The storm is expected to intensify into a typhoon by August 31 before weakening again.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 29, 2017

NTU scientists use brewery waste to grow yeast needed for beer making

Researchers from Nanyang Technological University have developed a process to convert brewery waste into a valuable liquid nutrient that can grow beer yeast. This innovation reduces the need for commercial liquid nutrients and saves breweries significant production costs.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAMB Express·DateAug 29, 2017

Century-old seal pelts reveal changes in Ross Sea ecosystem

Researchers analyzed century-old seal pelts to investigate human impacts on the Antarctic ecosystem. They found that Weddell seals' diets have not changed significantly over the past hundred years, but significant change occurred in the phytoplankton community, likely due to climatic shifts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateAug 29, 2017

An alternative to wolf control to save endangered caribou

Researchers found that reducing invasive moose populations indirectly lowers wolf density and stops decline of endangered caribou. This approach shows promise as a long-term solution to stabilize the species, which requires population growth to achieve recovery goals.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 29, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

The Lancet: In low and middle income countries, 3-4 servings of fruit, vegetables and legumes per day may be more realistic target for health

A new study published in The Lancet found that eating 3-4 servings of fruit, vegetables, and legumes per day (375-500g) achieves similar benefits against mortality risk as higher portions. This target is more affordable for people in low- and middle-income countries, providing a potential solution to food security issues.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 29, 2017

Say hello to the 3-D Obama ant

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have created 3D avatars of three new ant species named after key figures in African biodiversity conservation. The ants' virtual reconstructions allow for detailed study of their biology without damaging physical specimens.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalZooKeys·DateAug 29, 2017