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Science News for July 4, 2017


Local views key to unlocking ways to fairer and more successful nature conservation

Researchers found that an approach to pursuing equity with local communities' perspectives can bring better outcomes for habitats and wildlife, as well as some of the world's poorest people. Current practices are limited in their interpretation of equity, resulting in responses that sustain local perceptions of injustice and miss oppor...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalConservation Letters·DateJul 4, 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.

Fastest stars in the Milky Way are 'runaways' from another galaxy

Astronomers found that the fastest-moving stars in the Milky Way originated in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy in orbit around our own. Computer simulations and data analysis showed that these stars were ejected from their original home at incredible speeds.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 4, 2017

Nicking in new nucleotides

A Kyoto University team developed a genome-wide base-editing technology using the CRISPR Nickase system, which reduces inaccurate edits and improves editing accuracy. The system combines a guide RNA and Cas9 nickase to 'nick' the DNA double helix, resulting in faster generation of yeast mutants and increased precision.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 4, 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.

Shocking case of indigestion in supermassive black hole

Astronomers observe how massive forces create shock waves in interstellar medium, leading to X-ray and radio emissions. The study provides insight into galactic proportions, allowing researchers to see event across electromagnetic spectrum.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 4, 2017

New chemical synthesis method can produce an exciting range of novel compounds

Researchers at Nagoya Institute of Technology have developed a new reaction system that produces aziridines with high yield and selectivity. The method uses phosphite as a catalyst and achieves high rates of production of one enantiomer, which is essential for pharmaceutical applications.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 4, 2017

Ensuring carpoolers are compatible is key to ridesharing success

Researchers matched would-be carpoolers with people driving to work based on social media data and found that compatibility increased satisfaction and reduced car use by 57% in Rome and 40% in San Francisco. This approach could lead to a dent in gridlock, reduce pollution and make commuting more enjoyable.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalTransportation Research Part C Emerging Technologies·DateJul 4, 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.

Who'll win at Wimbledon? Just listen to the pitch of the grunts

A new study found that players who lost Wimbledon matches produced higher-pitched grunts than those who won. The researchers analyzed television footage of 50 matches and discovered that the likely match outcome became apparent from the outset, suggesting longer-term physiological or psychological factors at play.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJul 4, 2017

Mapping genes could improve cancer diagnosis

Researchers have developed a new method to detect genetic changes in cancer cells using Hi-C, which can identify major genome rearrangements and copy number variations with high accuracy. This approach has the potential to aid targeted treatments and enhance cancer diagnosis.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 4, 2017

McMaster researchers make data centers more efficient

The project aims to create a system that can effectively monitor data centers and analyze findings with minimal human intervention. Led by McMaster Engineering professors, the team will develop tools to analyze performance in real-time, helping companies make decisions to reduce energy usage and predict system faults and failures.

SourceMcMaster University·DateJul 4, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genome sequence of a diabetes-prone rodent

The sand rat genome shows a highly divergent GC-rich genomic domain with several essential genes, including the insulin-regulating homeobox gene Pdx1. This region is subject to elevated mutation rates, which could influence evolution and the course of diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 4, 2017

DYNAMO joins the war on diabetic kidney disease

The DYNAMO study aims to identify genes and processes involved in diabetic kidney disease, with the goal of reducing DKD by 30% in Singapore within five years. The research collaboration will utilize multiple experimental approaches to develop new treatments for kidney complications from diabetes.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·DateJul 4, 2017

Do blind people express their emotions in the same way as people who can see?

Scientists reviewed 80 years of research on facial expressions in blind people to determine if they express emotions in the same way as sighted individuals. The study found that blind people use the same muscles to express individual emotions, suggesting an innate and universal emotional character.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateJul 4, 2017

On the road to creating an electrodeless spacecraft propulsion engine

Scientists have successfully observed a spatial transition between two plasma states, where the magnetic field is stretched into space while maintaining thrust generation. This finding provides significant insights into overcoming the problem of detaching plasma from the MN in plasma thrusters.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 4, 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.

The role of electrochemotherapy in radiosensitization of tumor cells

Electrochemotherapy (ECT) combines electro-poration with chemotherapy to increase drug uptake in tumor cells, enhancing the radiosensitizing effect. The treatment has been shown to be effective in treating progressive skin tumors in the head and neck area, preserving cosmetic appearance and function of surrounding tissues.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Drug Targets·DateJul 4, 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.

Winging it: How do bats out-maneuver their prey?

Researchers studied the aerodynamics of bats performing manoeuvres during flight, revealing their high level of control over wings. The study used flow visualisation techniques to analyse bat wing movement through the air, gaining insights into how these animals catch prey on the wing.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 4, 2017

Praying mantises hunt down birds worldwide

A new study reveals that praying mantises from 12 species and 9 genera kill and eat small birds globally. The victims include birds from 24 different species and 14 families, with the Ruby-throated Hummingbird being a frequent victim.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Wilson Journal of Ornithology·DateJul 4, 2017

Inhibition of tau protein aggregation by rhodanine-based compounds

Researchers develop rhodanine-based compounds to solubilize poorly water-soluble drugs, inhibiting tau protein aggregation and improving cell viability. The formulation additives preserve drug efficacy and activity, offering opportunities for early-stage drug testing.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Alzheimer Research·DateJul 4, 2017

Extreme weather conditions and climate change account for 40 percent of global wheat production variability

A new study reveals that heat stress concurrent with drought or water excess can explain about 40% of the changes in wheat yields from one year to another. Water excess affects wheat production more than drought in several countries, contributing to reduced yields due to increased pests and diseases.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 4, 2017

Through fossil leaves, a step towards Jurassic Park

Using infrared spectroscopy and statistical analysis of organic molecules in fossil leaves, researchers have solved long-standing questions about extinct plant relationships. The study reveals that ancient plant species grouped according to well-established botanical relationships, shedding light on their evolution.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 4, 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.

Whale attack simulations reveal prey escape strategies

Research by Dr Nicholas Carey and colleagues reveals complex balance between whale attacks and fish escape responses, and how lunge characteristics relate to prey escape abilities. Humpback whales alter their lunging strategy to target different prey species.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 4, 2017

Motivation through punishment

Researcher Andreas Eder found that punishment alone does not suppress undesirable behavior but can even facilitate it. The brain uses behavioral consequences to trigger actions more easily, even if the consequences are disagreeable. Providing clear feedback for desired behavior is crucial in educational practices.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateJul 4, 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.

High-precision control of printed electronics

Researchers at Linköping University have successfully applied a thin layer of a ferroelectric material to control electronic nonlinearity in ion-doped conducting polymers. This breakthrough enables precise switching of transistors and color changes in displays, opening up new possibilities for applications in printed electronics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 4, 2017

AAS publishes a special issue on Chinese Carbon Budget Program

The AAS Special Issue on the Chinese Carbon Budget Program presents research on accurate estimation of national GHG emissions, terrestrial carbon budget, and potential for increasing carbon sinks. Eight papers cover various topics, including aerosols, airborne observations, and CO2 monitoring from space.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJul 4, 2017

UK can lead the way in labor rights post-Brexit, says new academic report

A new academic report from Queen Mary University of London recommends that the UK prioritize and protect labor rights in post-Brexit trade agreements. The report argues that the UK should not engage in a 'race to the bottom' to improve competitiveness, but rather seek to maintain or improve existing labor protections.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateJul 4, 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.

Sea shells for sale: A new source of sustainable biomaterials

Researchers are exploring the potential of mollusc shells to restore damaged oyster reefs and cultivate new oysters. The shells contain over 95% calcium carbonate, a valuable biomaterial used in various applications, offering a sustainable alternative to mined limestone.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 4, 2017

Genetics may lie at the heart of crop yield limitation

A new study by Dr Nick Pullen and his team reveals that plant growth is actually 'sink-limited', meaning genetic regulation and cell division rates control growth. This finding has significant implications for the agricultural industry, including potential improvements in crop yields and climate modeling.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 4, 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.

Scanning the surface of lithium titanate

A team of researchers has visualized the previously unexplored surface of lithium titanate, a rare spinel oxide superconductor with high superconducting transition temperature. Their study provides new directions for interface research, including understanding electrode surfaces and mechanisms behind lithium-ion battery operations.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 4, 2017

Menstruation doesn't change how your brain works -- period

A new study published in Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience found that hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle have no impact on working memory, cognitive bias, or ability to pay attention. The study followed 68 women across two consecutive menstrual cycles and found no replicable effects of hormones on cognition.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateJul 4, 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.