Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive July 2017 - Page 35


Page 35 of 37

Engineers find way to evaluate green roofs

A team of engineers at the University of Illinois has developed a mathematical technique to assess green roof performance, considering factors such as rainfall intensity and soil moisture. The study aims to facilitate communication between stakeholders about the financial risk and environmental benefits of green infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Sustainable Water in the Built Environment·DateJul 5, 2017

Brain's immune cells may drive overeating and weight gain

A recent study published in Cell Metabolism found that brain-resident immune cells called microglia play a crucial role in driving overeating and weight gain in mice fed high-fat diets. The study suggests that targeting microglia could provide a novel approach to treating obesity, potentially avoiding side effects of existing medications.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 5, 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.

Bacteria collaborate to propel the ocean 'engine'

Researchers at the University of Warwick discovered that phototrophic and heterotrophic bacteria collaborate to cycle nutrients, feeding the ecosystem. This interaction is crucial for maintaining a balanced nutrient level, supporting half of the planet's primary production and oxygen supply.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 5, 2017

Figuring out how fast Greenland is melting

A new study from University of Arizona scientists has analyzed Greenland's past temperatures to better understand the island's vast ice sheet melting. The research found that current temperatures are warmer than the 1930s, with a long-term trend for ever-higher surface temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateJul 5, 2017

For mice, too much muscle glycogen impairs endurance exercise performance

A study published in Cell Metabolism found that high glycogen levels actually impair endurance muscle performance in mice. Glycogenin-deficient mice underperformed normal mice despite having higher glycogen levels, suggesting a switch from oxidative to glycolytic metabolism in slow-twitch muscles.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 5, 2017

How a few drops of blood led to a breakthrough in immunology

Researchers from McGill University Health Centre cracked the code to understanding regulatory T cell function, a key component of our immune system. The study's findings have significant implications for treating autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and Crohn's disease.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalScience Immunology·DateJul 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Probing psychopathic brains

A study by Harvard University researchers found that psychopaths' brains prioritize short-term gains, leading to poor decision-making and violent behavior. The research used brain scans of nearly 50 prison inmates, revealing a specific connection between the ventral striatum and prefrontal cortex.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 5, 2017

New study shows West Antarctic Ice Sheet loss over the last 11,000 years

A new study published in Nature reveals that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet has experienced significant and sustained ice loss over the past 11,000 years, driven by wind-driven incursions of warm water. The research provides crucial insights into the mechanisms behind this ice sheet's behavior and its contribution to sea-level rise.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature·DateJul 5, 2017

One-step protein purification achieves high yields, purity and activity

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have developed a novel method for one-step protein purification that improves yield, purity, and activity by 10- to 500-fold. The CL7/Im7 affinity chromatography purification scheme overcomes weaknesses of current commercially available systems.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 5, 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.

Re-making planets after star-death

Astronomers Dr Jane Greaves and Dr Wayne Holland propose a new model for forming planets in the aftermath of a supernova explosion. They suggest that material caught up in the bow-wave around a moving neutron star could provide raw materials for future planet formation. Further data from ALMA is needed to confirm this theory.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 5, 2017

Meaningless accelerating scores yield better performance

Research published in Psychological Science shows that people are highly sensitive to the acceleration of scores, not just their actual value. This finding suggests that meaningless accelerating scores can be an effective motivator, as long as they increase at a fast rate.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 5, 2017

Sex now needs to be included as a biological variable in NIH-funded research, but how?

The National Institutes of Health has instituted a policy to consider sex as a biological variable in funded research, with recommendations provided by coauthors Terri Lynn Cornelison and Janine Austin Clayton. Guidelines include including both male and female subjects in studies and generalizing findings appropriately.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGender and the Genome·DateJul 5, 2017

Global ocean health relatively stable over past 5 years

A study analyzing five years of Ocean Health Index data for 220 countries found that global ocean health has remained stable, but individual countries have seen changes, particularly in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Improvements in fishery management and marine protected areas may have stabilized ocean health scores in other regions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 5, 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.

One fin in the grave: Necrobiome poses a health threat to fish

Researchers found that wastewater-exposed rainbow darters had increased metabolic rates, suggesting they were under stress from environmental conditions. The presence of pathogenic bacteria in these fish was also linked to human infections such as food poisoning.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 5, 2017

V.A. campaign to increase hospice care showing results

A new study found that a V.A. initiative to improve end-of-life care led to a substantial increase in the use of hospice among U.S. veterans. Hospice use grew at a rate twice as fast as the general Medicare population, with an estimated additional 17,046 veterans receiving hospice care between 2010 and 2014.

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 5, 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.

Working together to reduce infection in extreme weather events

Researchers warn of increased risk of cryptosporidiosis due to drought conditions and inadequate water storage. Collaboration is key to reducing infection cases, say experts from the Australian National University.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJul 5, 2017

2-D layered devices can self-assemble with precision

A team of Penn State researchers has created 2D layered devices that can self-assemble at atomistic precision, enabling the production of high-efficiency devices such as flexible electronics and energy storage systems. The devices feature minute spacing between layers, which is crucial for achieving optimal performance.

SourcePenn State·JournalCarbon·DateJul 5, 2017

Kinect scan of T. rex skull addresses paleontological mystery

A team of researchers used a low-cost Kinect scanner to create a high-resolution 3D scan of the T. rex skull, contradicting previous theories about the holes in its jawbone. The scan reveals that the angles at which the holes bore through the jaw are inconsistent with bite patterns, casting doubt on two popular hypotheses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 5, 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.

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.