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Science News for December 15, 2017


What does hair loss have to teach us about cancer metastasis?

Researchers at MUSC identified a mechanism that regulates signaling events leading to cell migration and metastasis. The study found that ceramide synthase 4 (CerS4) affects cell migration by disrupting the ability of cells to form focal points in primary cilia.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalScience Signaling·DateDec 15, 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.

Scientific achievements during the operation of Lomonosov satellite

The Lomonosov satellite detected air showers caused by high-energy space rays and registered transient light phenomena associated with storm ares. The satellite also observed gamma-ray bursts for the first time in history, allowing for simultaneous measurements in optic and gamma ranges.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalSpace Science Reviews·DateDec 15, 2017

Columbia engineers develop floating solar fuels rig for seawater electrolysis

Researchers have developed a novel photovoltaic-powered electrolysis device that can operate as a stand-alone platform on open water, producing hydrogen fuel from sunlight and water. The device separates gases using buoyancy-driven product separation, resulting in high product purity without actively pumping the electrolyte.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateDec 15, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Russian scientists developed a new technology of energy generation from bituminous coal

Researchers have created an electrochemical generator that converts bituminous coal into electrical energy, producing only water and heat as byproducts. The technology has been proven effective in joint generation of electrical and heat energy, with the added benefit of a simpler configuration compared to existing coal power plants.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateDec 15, 2017

Innovation Accelerator program announces support for 4 projects improving health care

The Innovation Accelerator program has announced funding for four new projects aimed at addressing disparities in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. The projects focus on improving symptom management for heart failure patients, reimagining primary care doctor visits and payment models with telemedicine, and developing a multidis...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Dementia with Lewy bodies: Unique genetic profile identified

A large-scale genetic study has clarified the distinctive genetic signature of Dementia with Lewy bodies, a common type of dementia. The research found that DLB accounts for 10-15% of dementia cases, but its genetic profile is unique compared to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateDec 15, 2017

KAIST team develops technology to find optimum drug target for cancer

A KAIST research team developed technology to identify the optimal drug target for cancer cells based on molecular network dynamics. This approach uses systems biology to analyze genetic mutations and predict drug response, which could lead to more effective treatment strategies.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 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.

Genetic instructions from mom set the pattern for embryonic development

A recent study published in eLife found that a maternally inherited gene is essential for proper zebrafish embryonic development, and its absence leads to fatal defects. The research reveals the critical role of this gene in regulating cell signaling pathways, including Nodal signaling, which plays a key role in left-right patterning.

SourcePrinceton University·DateDec 15, 2017

Nanodiscs catch misfolding proteins red-handed

Misfolding proteins accumulate in the pancreas, killing cells. Researchers use nanodiscs to study these proteins at the atomic level, gaining insights into their toxicity. This work may lead to the development of new drugs targeting incorrectly folding proteins.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateDec 15, 2017

Erectile dysfunction is red flag for silent early cardiovascular disease

A new study reveals a significant association between erectile dysfunction and impaired endothelial function, as well as increased carotid intimal medial thickness, indicating an early manifestation of atherosclerosis. The findings support a more aggressive CV disease risk assessment and management for persons with erectile dysfunction.

SourceSAGE·JournalVascular Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Autism in Adulthood, a new peer-reviewed journal launching in 2019

The new journal will publish evidence-based original articles, review articles, and analysis on various aspects of adult autism, including physical and mental health, research methodology, and policy change. The journal aims to provide authoritative insights and promote practice, systems, and policy changes for adults with ASD.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAutism in Adulthood·DateDec 15, 2017

Scientists describe the structure of a prospective luminesce substance

Researchers describe a new, rare earth metal hydroxide compound with unique phosphor properties, potentially replacing traditional methods and reducing toxic emissions. The discovery has far-reaching implications for industrial applications and sustainable technology.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateDec 15, 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.

How much soil goes down the drain -- New data on soil lost due to water

According to a new study, global soil loss has increased by 35.9 billion tonnes between 2001 and 2012, with moderate to high erosion impacting about 9.3% of Earth's land surface. Conservation agriculture can save over a billion tonnes of soil per year if implemented correctly.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2017

Stuttering: Stop signals in the brain prevent fluent speech

A hyperactive network in the right frontal part of the brain plays a crucial role in stuttering by inhibiting speech movement planning and execution. The more severe the stuttering, the stronger the connections between brain regions involved in neural inhibition of speech movements.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBrain·DateDec 15, 2017

Indonesian island found to be unusually rich in cave paintings

Researchers uncovered 28 rock art sites on the island of Kisar, measuring just 81 square kilometers, with images depicting boats, dogs, horses, people holding shields, and playing drums. The discovery suggests a stronger shared history between Kisar and neighboring Timor.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalCambridge Archaeological Journal·DateDec 15, 2017

Arctic sea ice affects and is affected by mid-latitude weather

Researchers use large ensemble of model simulations to examine lead-lag relationships between Arctic sea ice and atmospheric circulation. They find evidence that sea ice change is both a driver of and a response to atmospheric variability.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 15, 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.

A chip for environmental and health monitoring

Researchers are developing miniaturized sensor systems that can be produced on an industrial scale to monitor NO2 levels in metropolitan areas and detect cancers. The project combines different sensor components to analyze complex gas mixtures and fine-tunes the functionality of materials used.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateDec 15, 2017

Single-photon detector can count to 4

Engineers at Duke University have successfully counted the presence of at least four photons at a time using a widely used method of detecting single photons, providing easier paths to developing quantum-based technologies. The discovery will unlock new capabilities in physics labs working in quantum information science around the world.

SourceDuke University·JournalOptica·DateDec 15, 2017

Graphene in zero G promises success in space

The Graphene Flagship has successfully tested graphene for two space-related applications: loop heat pipes and solar sails. The experiments, conducted in microgravity, showed excellent thermal properties and radiation pressure behavior, paving the way for a commercial product.

SourceGraphene Flagship·DateDec 15, 2017

Complex, old-growth forests may protect some bird species in a warming climate

Researchers found that old-growth forests with diverse tree sizes and species can buffer the effects of warming temperatures on birds. The study suggests that large trees function as heat sinks during warm periods and multiple canopy layers provide climate buffering effects, supporting stable populations of some bird species.

SourceOregon State University·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateDec 15, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists win a gold metal for liquid behavior

Researchers at University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science report the first direct observation of gold ions moving in liquid using ADF-STEM. The study reveals heterogeneous dynamics and trapped gold ions in small spaces, which could improve battery performance and energy efficiency.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 15, 2017

Getting under graphite's skin:

Scientists have discovered a new process to layer metals under graphite, leading to unique mesas with potential applications in quantum computing and sensing. The formation of these structures could enable controlled magnetic and electronic properties.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalCarbon·DateDec 15, 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.

Exposure to larger air particles linked to increased risk of asthma in children

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that exposure to coarse particulate matter increases the risk of asthma and hospitalizations in children. For each microgram/cubic meter increase in coarse particulate matter, asthma diagnosis increased by 1.3 percent, emergency room visits for asthma by 3.3 percent, and hospitalizations by...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Higher blood sugar in early pregnancy raises baby's heart-defect risk

A study led by Stanford University School of Medicine found that higher blood sugar levels in early pregnancy are associated with a greater risk of congenital heart defects in babies. The researchers analyzed data from over 19,000 pregnancies and found a significant link between blood glucose levels and the risk of heart defects.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateDec 15, 2017

UTA discovery could reduce cost, energy for high-speed Internet connections

Researchers at UTA and UVM have developed a novel group-delay-managed nonlinear-optical medium, enabling simultaneous all-optical regeneration of multiple WDM channels by a single device. This breakthrough could lead to cheaper and more energy-efficient high-speed internet communications.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2017

Coarse particulate matter may increase asthma risk

New research found that coarse particulate matter increases the risk of asthma diagnosis, ER visits for asthma, and hospitalizations in children. The study analyzed records of over 7 million children in Medicaid and found a strong association between PM10-2.5 exposure and asthma-related outcomes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 15, 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.

Many women report not feeling completely informed about breast cancer treatment options

A recent study found that the majority of women with breast cancer report not feeling completely informed about their treatment options. The study suggests that patients often prioritize making a quick decision over thoroughly researching their options. To address this issue, researchers recommend providing consistent, reliable informa...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 15, 2017

The conversational intelligence challenge finals

The Conversational Intelligence Challenge Finals saw six teams compete, with two winning teams developing modules for processing different scenarios and a command module that decides which routine should step in. The competition aimed to work out approaches for chatbot evaluation and human-to-machine dialogue collection.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·DateDec 15, 2017

Extending food safety training to other countries could save live

A Penn State research group extended its food safety training program to Armenia, showing significant improvements in students' knowledge, behavior, and attitudes towards food safety. The project aims to replicate the program in Ukraine, Africa, and Latin America to combat global foodborne illness.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Food Science Education·DateDec 15, 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.

Complete design of a silicon quantum computer chip unveiled

The new chip design enables millions of qubits to be integrated and processed simultaneously, solving complex problems exponentially faster than conventional computers. The UNSW-led team's innovative approach incorporates error-correcting codes and sophisticated protocols to control the vast array of quantum bits.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2017

A shoe-box-sized chemical detector

A new optical-fiber-based laser enables detection of chemicals by analyzing reflected light patterns. The device uses a broadband infrared supercontinuum laser to identify substances based on their chemical signature.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalOptics Letters·DateDec 15, 2017

Space station research explorer on NASA.gov launches phase one

Space Station Research Explorer on NASA.gov provides a tailored experience for scientists and enthusiasts, offering thousands of investigations, results summaries, and in-orbit photographs. The new tool features improved search capabilities, social media sharing, and bookmarking options.

SourceNASA/Johnson Space Center·DateDec 15, 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.

Could a new app help cure loneliness?

Researchers from Lancaster University are developing an app to tackle social isolation and loneliness in older adults. The app will provide users with information on local social opportunities and real-time data on factors that discourage outdoor activity, such as weather and daylight levels.

SourceLancaster University·DateDec 15, 2017

Vitamin deficiency in later life

A study of 1,079 older adults found that 52% had vitamin D levels below 50 nmol/L and 27% had low vitamin B12 levels. Regular intake of vitamin-containing supplements can improve levels, but a healthy diet is essential.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNutrients·DateDec 15, 2017

Amber-tinted glasses may provide relief for insomnia

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that wearing amber-tinted lenses before bed can improve sleep quality in individuals with insomnia. Participants wore wrap-around frames with amber or clear lenses for seven consecutive nights, resulting in an average of 30 minutes extra sleep and improved insomnia severity.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateDec 15, 2017
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.

UTA leads Texas universities for NAI Fellows

Dereje Agonafer's election as an NAI Fellow marks the highest number of NAI Fellows at any university in Texas. He is a renowned expert in thermal engineering and has developed innovative cooling systems for high-power chip stacking.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 15, 2017

Research points to second chance for rejected antibiotic candidate

Scientists at the University of Leeds have found that an old antibiotic candidate, pentyl pantothenamide, can stop E. coli growth but not kill it, making it effective against a specific type of bacteria. The discovery opens up the possibility of designing new drugs using the same mechanism to attack other disease-causing bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBiochemistry·DateDec 15, 2017

New technique could make captured carbon more valuable

Scientists developed an efficient process to turn captured CO2 into syngas, a mixture of H2 and CO that can be used to make fuels and chemicals. The new process uses switchable polarity solvents to control what molecules dissolve in the solvent.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateDec 15, 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.

3-D nanoscale imaging made possible

A new imaging technique allows for true 3D imaging at the nanoscale with a resolution of 30nm. This breakthrough has potential applications in fields like materials science, physics, and medicine.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalNanophotonics·DateDec 15, 2017

Nanoparticles as a solution against antibiotic resistance?

Scientists from Friedrich Schiller University Jena have developed nanoparticles that transport antibiotics more efficiently to their destination, killing off pathogens without problems. The particles are able to penetrate thick layers of mucus and biofilms, making them a promising solution against antibiotic resistance.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateDec 15, 2017

BIDMC researchers use artificial intelligence to identify bacteria quickly and accurately

Researchers at BIDMC used AI to develop an automated microscope system that can quickly and accurately identify images of bacteria, reducing the reliance on human clinical microbiologists. The system achieved nearly 95% accuracy in identifying three types of bacteria, paving the way for a future diagnostic platform.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateDec 15, 2017

Real-time observation of collective quantum modes

A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has directly observed collective quantum modes in a quantum simulator, revealing the behavior of Goldstone and Higgs modes. This breakthrough sheds new light on fundamental phenomena like magnetism and superconductivity.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateDec 15, 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.

Distinct human mutations can alter the effect of medicine

Researchers mapped genetic mutations in GPCRs and found that 3% of population have receptors with altered drug effects. The study estimates an economic burden of at least 14 million pounds annually on the UK National Health Service.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell·DateDec 15, 2017

Study prompts new ideas on cancers' origins

Researchers found that mature cells can revert to a stem cell-like state, carrying accumulated mutations that predispose them to developing into precancerous lesions. This new understanding could lead to the development of treatments targeting mature cells, potentially preventing cancer recurrence.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateDec 15, 2017

Error-free into the quantum computer age

Researchers developed trapped-ion quantum error correction protocols to detect and correct processing errors, enabling the creation of larger quantum computers. The study suggests that today's quantum computer prototypes can meet specific criteria with current ion-trap technologies.

SourceSwansea University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 15, 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.

Heavy-petroleum fuels raising vanadium emissions

Human emissions of vanadium have spiked since the start of the 21st century due to heavy oil use, surpassing natural sources combined. The health risks of airborne vanadium particles are not well documented but may impair respiratory functions and exacerbate conditions like asthma.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2017

Screening could catch a quarter of hip fractures before they happen

A large multicentre study found that community screening for osteoporosis using bone mineral density measurements and a questionnaire led to a 28% reduction in hip fractures among older women. The approach is estimated to prevent one hip fracture for every 111 women screened.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 15, 2017

A new theory to describe widely used material

Researchers have developed a theoretical model that explains the interaction between ions and electrons in PEDOT:PSS, a widely used conducting material. The model has implications for applications in printed electronics, energy storage, and bioelectronics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 15, 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.