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Science News Archive August 2017 - Page 40


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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.

Lifelike 3-D cinematic imaging promises numerous medical uses

Cinematic rendering technology produces photorealistic 3D images from CT and MRI data, enhancing medical education, patient-physician communication, and early disease detection. The technique has potential applications in surgical planning and improves physician-patient relationships.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateAug 1, 2017

For white middle class, moderate drinking is linked to cognitive health in old age

A University of California San Diego study found that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with reduced mortality and greater chances of remaining cognitively healthy into older age. Among men and women aged 85+, individuals who consumed 'moderate to heavy' amounts of alcohol were twice as likely to be cognitively healthy than no...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 1, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Investigators use light to kill microbial 'vampires'

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have developed a new light-based therapy to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as MRSA. The therapy uses a small molecule to activate an enzyme that produces reactive oxygen species, killing the bacteria when exposed to specific wavelengths of light.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2017

New NOAA Fisheries research reveals ecosystem cascades affecting salmon

New research by NOAA Fisheries shows that seabird predation, particularly common murres, affects salmon survival in the California Current. Changes in ocean conditions influence bird predation on salmon from San Francisco Bay, highlighting the complex relationships between species and their environment.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalJournal of Marine Systems·DateAug 1, 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.

Whole genome sequencing identifies cause of zoonotic epidemic

A team of scientists used whole genome sequencing to identify the cause of a respiratory disease that affected almost 77,000 native Icelandic horses in 2010. The researchers found that the gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus zooepidemicus was the culprit behind the outbreak.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateAug 1, 2017

Black holes are formed as a result of the most powerful explosions in the universe

A team of scientists from the Lomonosov Moscow State University has successfully detected polarization of intrinsic optical radiation of a gamma-ray burst, providing evidence of a powerful magnetic field around a rapidly rotating black hole. This achievement marks a major breakthrough in understanding these cosmic events.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 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.

Algorithms that can sketch, recreate 3-D shapes

Researchers developed FlowRep to create design sketches of everyday objects, leveraging insights from Gestalt psychology. The algorithm can produce comparable sketches to professional designers, with potential implications for 3D printing and fabrication.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateAug 1, 2017

Magic helps unmask how the brain works

Researchers at the University of Delaware used a new mirror box illusion to study how the brain processes multiple sensory inputs. The study found that the brain uses biomechanical constraints from the body schema to resolve conflicts between senses, with vision typically ruling but also considering additional information.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 1, 2017

New images from under Alaska seafloor suggest high tsunami danger

Researchers have mapped a geologic structure off Alaska's seafloor that suggests high tsunami danger, with similar features found in Japan and potentially elsewhere in the Pacific. The discovery highlights the need for better understanding of subduction zones and their potential hazards.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 1, 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.

Help from the stomach for dry eyes

Researchers have developed a new contact lens coating made from a molecule found in pig stomach mucus, which can prevent tissue damage caused by dry eyes. The coating is long-term protective and requires no repeated applications, offering an alternative to existing hyaluronic acid products.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateAug 1, 2017

Resistance training may slow down the progression of multiple sclerosis

A study published in Multiple Sclerosis Journal shows that resistance training can protect the brain and delay disease progression in people with multiple sclerosis. The research, conducted over six months, found that those who engaged in resistance training had less brain shrinkage and even small brain areas began to grow.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMultiple Sclerosis Journal·DateAug 1, 2017

Decoding a treasure trove of data from the brain

A team of researchers will use new methods to analyze and interpret neural data, developing theoretical models to understand the underlying mechanisms. The project aims to improve understanding of brain function, even when only a small fraction of cells are directly observed.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 1, 2017

Missing signals lead to diabetic nerve injury

A new study from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine suggests that replenishing cytokine molecules could repair diabetic nerve damage. Diabetic mice showed low levels of specific cytokines that hindered activation of reparative genes, leading to poor circulation and muscle weakness.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalExperimental Neurology·DateAug 1, 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.

Cheap and simple detection of neurotoxic chemicals

Researchers from Kumamoto University developed a novel electrochemical sensing technique for detecting neurotoxic agents, including Nereistoxin, which showed high sensitivity and specificity. The method uses gold electrodes with adsorbed NRT layers, achieving detection limits of 1-25 micro-grams per milliliter of human serum.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 1, 2017

Women show cognitive advantage in gender-equal countries

New research by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health finds that women living in gender-equal countries have better cognitive test scores later in life than women in gender-unequal societies. The female advantage in cognitive performance was highest in Sweden, where women tend to outperform men on memory tests.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 1, 2017

New imaging tracer allows early assessment of abdominal aortic aneurysm risk

Researchers developed a novel imaging tracer that allows for early assessment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) risk. The study shows high sensitivity and specificity in detecting vessel wall biology, suggesting a promising tool for AAA risk stratification.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateAug 1, 2017

Poor appetite and food intake in older adults

A study of 2,597 older adults found that those with poor appetites consumed less protein, fiber, and solid foods, but more dairy and sweets. Researchers hope to identify specific food preferences to help improve appetite and diet quality.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 1, 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.

Building bridges within the cell -- using light

Scientists have created a method to build bridges between organelles in living cells, allowing for controlled manipulation of communication between subcellular compartments. This breakthrough could lead to breakthroughs in understanding cell function and developing new treatments for diseases.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalChemical Science·DateAug 1, 2017

Big data points humanity to new minerals, new deposits

A groundbreaking study applies big data analysis to mineralogy, predicting the existence of 1,500 missing minerals and new deposits. The technique enables scientists to represent data from multiple variables on thousands of minerals in a single graph, revealing patterns of occurrence and distribution.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalAmerican Mineralogist·DateAug 1, 2017

Noise helps cells make decisions

A new study by the Reik lab finds that genetic noise is essential for cells to make decisions about their fate, enabling symmetry breaking and unique cell types.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 1, 2017

Study identifies enzyme that protects cells from toxic fat

Researchers found an enzyme called DGAT1 that helps protect a key organelle within cells from toxic fatty acids. This discovery contributes to understanding common metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 1, 2017
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.

Safely releasing genetically modified genes into the wild

Scientists use nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations to model gene movement and develop 'switches' that initiate and terminate gene drives, balancing genetic traits with embedded weaknesses. They also find that intense release in specific regions can trigger spreading, but can be stopped by barriers like pesticides.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2017

New algorithm finds the optimal bond breaking point for single molecules

Researchers developed an algorithm to identify the stress-induced breakdown of molecular bonds, enabling efficient chemical synthesis and catalysis. The algorithm can be applied to any molecule, including biological ones, and has implications for various applications such as molecular machines and catalyst design.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 1, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

'Antibiotic stewardship teams' must be planned and paid for to halt dangerous infections

The article highlights the urgent need for specialist health workers to promote appropriate antibiotic use, improve diagnosis and treatment of infections, and prevent drug-resistant bacteria. The proposed multidisciplinary teams should be made up of infectious diseases specialists, clinical microbiologists, nurses, and pharmacists.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateAug 1, 2017

Dietary restriction can improve learning in worms

A new study reveals that dietary restriction improves learning in worms by depleting a specific amino acid metabolite. The researchers used the nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans to test how food deprivation affected learning and found that restricted access to food increased learning by reducing kynurenic acid levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 1, 2017

It's never too cold for quantum

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding quantum critical points, which occur at absolute zero and are responsible for phase transitions. The new findings reveal that quantum fluctuations play a crucial role in these phenomena, even at extremely low temperatures.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 1, 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 tracks Tropical Depression Emily across Florida into Atlantic

Tropical Depression Emily consolidated along the central west coast of Florida on July 31 before tracking east into the Western North Atlantic Ocean. The storm's circulation has become elongated, with limited convection near the center due to dry mid-level air, and is expected to turn toward the northeast later in August.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2017

Study examines fees, finances of medical specialty boards

The study found that examination fees accounted for 88% of revenue and 21% of expenditures, while officer and employee compensation and benefits accounted for 42% of expenses. The ABMS member boards reported a cumulative surplus of $635 million between 2003 and 2013.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 1, 2017

How the electrodes of lithium-air batteries become passivated

Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University found that electrode passivation in lithium-air batteries is triggered by the binding of superoxide anion with lithium ions. They suggested using solvents, electrolytes, and materials to inhibit this process, which could lead to more efficient battery operation.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateAug 1, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Aug. 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a novel method to convert used cooking oil into biofuel using recycled carbon materials. Additionally, they have found a way to insulate the innermost wall of a fusion reactor to maintain the delicate balance between hot plasma and cool exhaust. Furthermore, scientists have di...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalChemistrySelect·DateAug 1, 2017

Evolution of fan worm eyes

Fan worms have developed unusual compound eyes on their tentacles to detect motion and predators, alerting them to danger. The eyes' unique genetic makeup reveals an independent evolutionary history from other visual systems.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 1, 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.

Study: History of gum disease increases cancer risk in older women

A study led by the University at Buffalo found a significant association between periodontal disease and increased cancer risk in postmenopausal women. The study revealed that women with a history of gum disease had a 14% higher risk of overall cancer, as well as higher risks for gallbladder and esophageal cancers.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateAug 1, 2017

'Code Blue' equals lower survival for cancer patients

A nationwide study found that cancer patients with cardiac arrest in the hospital have a survival rate of less than 10 percent, compared to 20-25 percent for non-cancer patients. The study aims to provide guidance on end-of-life care decisions.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateAug 1, 2017

Genome sequencing shows spiders, scorpions share ancestor

Researchers have discovered a whole genome duplication in the evolution of spiders and scorpions, suggesting they shared an ancestor over 400 million years ago. This event is thought to have led to changes in gene expression, contributing to the diversification of these species.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalBMC Biology·DateAug 1, 2017

Satellite data for agriculture

Satellite data can optimize fertilizer use, protect groundwater, and monitor agricultural areas more efficiently. The DEMMIN soil measurement and validation site is a key player in this initiative.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateAug 1, 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.

City College engineers produce long lasting, energy density battery

A new generation of manganese dioxide-zinc batteries offers unprecedented cycle life and energy density, making it suitable for large grid storage applications. The breakthrough allows the battery to maintain its high energy density over 900 cycles, overcoming a major limitation of zinc-anode batteries.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateAug 1, 2017

Study examines drowning-induced brain injury in children

Children who develop brain injury due to non-fatal drowning often suffer from severe motor deficits, while maintaining relatively intact perceptual and cognitive abilities. The study used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to assess brain integrity in 11 children with quadriplegia caused by drowning-induced brain injury.

SourceWiley·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateAug 1, 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.

Detecting radio waves with entangled atoms

Scientists trap millions of rubidium atoms and apply a resonant radio frequency field to detect radio waves. They achieve high sensitivity by utilizing entanglement, reducing experimental noise and surpassing the standard quantum limit.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 1, 2017