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Science News for November 17, 2017


The future of cell culture: A new continuous bioprocess developed

Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a coating that allows individual stromal cells to detach from the surface, enabling continuous cell growth. This innovation can produce up to a billion cells per week, making it ideal for cell-based therapies requiring large numbers of cells.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 17, 2017

Seagrass is a key fishing ground globally

Research highlights seagrass meadows' role as crucial fishing grounds worldwide, supporting daily food supply and livelihoods. The study emphasizes the need for sustainable management of these ecosystems to mitigate the 'tragedy of the seagrass commons',

SourceStockholm University·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateNov 17, 2017

More care is needed for cancer supportive care

A recent study reveals that over a quarter of cancer survivors experience poor quality of life post-treatment, with significant unmet needs in eight out of ten countries. The study highlights the need for comprehensive survivorship care and coordinated resources to support cancer patients.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateNov 17, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Flu vaccine prevents hospitalization in children

Children vaccinated against influenza are less likely to experience serious complications from the virus that could land them in hospital. The flu vaccine has been shown to be effective at preventing influenza hospitalizations in young kids, with a significant reduction in risk seen for both fully and partially vaccinated children.

SourcePublic Health Ontario·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 17, 2017

New study out of WSU further supports use of progesterone to fight preterm birth

A new meta-analysis confirms the effectiveness of vaginal progesterone in reducing preterm birth risk and improving perinatal outcomes for women with a shortened cervix. The study found significant reductions in preterm birth rates and neonatal complications, as well as improved childhood neurodevelopment.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 17, 2017

Investigating patterns of degeneration in Alzheimer's disease

A study published in Stem Cell Reports reveals that DNA-encoded factors influence the vulnerability of brain cells to Alzheimer's disease. Brain regions with higher Aβ protein levels are more susceptible to damage, while protected areas have a less toxic response.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 17, 2017

Strain-free epitaxy of germanium film on mica

Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute successfully grow strain-free germanium films on mica using van der Waals forces, overcoming the challenge of lattice mismatch. This breakthrough enables the growth of relaxed films with potential applications in high-efficiency solar cells and advanced electronic devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateNov 17, 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.

Argonne to install Comanche system to explore ARM technology for HPC

Argonne is collaborating with HPE to evaluate early versions of Cavium ARM ThunderX2 processors for the ARM ecosystem, seeking a cost-effective alternative to x86 architectures. The Comanche Wave prototype ARM64 server platform will be installed at Argonne's testing environment to support this work.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateNov 17, 2017

A popular tool to trace Earth's oxygen history can give false positives

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have demonstrated that certain ligands can create signals similar to those of molecular oxygen, potentially masking true discoveries. The study highlights the tool's limitations and emphasizes the need for careful interpretation in specific cases.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 2017

Water world

Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis have developed the first experimental map of a cyanobacteria's water world, revealing pathways that could be used to deliver water to the active site. The discovery advances photosynthesis research and has implications for green fuels.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 17, 2017

Deletion of a stem cell factor promotes TBI recovery in mice

Researchers found that deleting a stem cell transcription factor SOX2 in adult mice promotes recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study suggests that increased astrocyte reactivity may not be beneficial for brain tissue integrity following TBI.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateNov 17, 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.

Asthma attacks reduced in tree-lined urban neighborhoods

A study found that trees and green space are associated with a decrease in people admitted to hospital with asthma. In the most polluted urban areas, trees had a strong association with fewer emergency asthma cases.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironment International·DateNov 17, 2017

Dog ownership linked to lower mortality

A Swedish study of over 3.4 million individuals found that dog owners had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Dog ownership was particularly protective for singles, with a 33% reduced risk of death and 11% reduced risk of myocardial infarction.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 17, 2017

Like a baby: The vicious cycle of childhood obesity and snoring

A new study found that child snoring is associated with worsening obesity and increased metabolic risk, creating a vicious cycle. Children who snored were more likely to develop higher body fat mass and obesity later in childhood or adolescence.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalMetabolism·DateNov 17, 2017

Surrey develops new 'supercatalyst' to recycle carbon dioxide and methane

The University of Surrey has developed a cost-effective catalyst to recycle carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) into fuels and valuable chemicals. The new 'supercatalyst' could make chemical CO2 recycling more widely available across industry, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·DateNov 17, 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 advances can make it easier to recycle plastics

Researchers from the University of Houston and IBM report emerging technologies that can increase plastic recycling rates, including chemical recycling methods and compatibilization of mixed plastic wastes. The goal is to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs, paving the way for more easily recyclable materials.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2017

Electrochemistry opens up novel access to important classes of substances

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have developed a novel synthesis strategy for highly reactive substances, overcoming the formation of polymers through electrochemical polymerization. This method uses an environmentally friendly approach with minimal reagent waste and produces only hydrogen as byproduct.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 17, 2017

Plant respiration could become a bigger feedback on climate than expected

New research suggests that plant respiration could be up to 30% higher than previously estimated, leading to reduced ability of the Earth's land surface to absorb fossil fuel-related emissions. This finding has significant implications for modeling carbon cycles and understanding the impact of climate change.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 2017

Evaluation of novel hybrid membranes for carbon capture

Hybrid mixed matrix membranes show resilience to industrial gas impurities, allowing effective CO2 capture. This finding is crucial for natural gas sweetening and post-combustion carbon capture applications.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateNov 17, 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.

Hibernating ground squirrels provide clues to new stroke treatments

Researchers identified a potential drug to protect brain cells after ischemic stroke by mimicking the cellular changes of hibernating ground squirrels. The compound, ebselen, boosts SUMOylation and keeps brain cells alive in the absence of oxygen and glucose.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 17, 2017

NIR-driven H2 evolution from water: Expanding wavelength range for solar energy conversion

Researchers at Kyushu University developed a device harnessing near-infrared light to drive the water-splitting reaction and produce hydrogen gas efficiently. This breakthrough enables a broader spectrum of light to be harvested, including UV, visible, and NIR, increasing the potential for clean energy storage.

SourceKyushu University, I2CNER·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 17, 2017

Taking a spin on plasma space tornadoes with NASA observations

Researchers used NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale mission data and computer simulations to investigate the small-scale physics of plasma tornadoes at Earth's magnetosphere borders. They found that these tornadoes are extremely efficient at transporting charged particles into the magnetosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 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.

Interstellar space probes: Where's the brakes?!

A theoretical physicist at Goethe University Frankfurt proposes using magnetic sails to decelerate interstellar spacecraft, enabling them to collect data from nearby stars and planets. The concept involves creating a strong magnetic field that reflects ionized hydrogen in the interstellar medium, slowing down the probe.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Physics Communications·DateNov 17, 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.

eDNA tool detects invasive clams before they become a nuisance

Researchers developed an eDNA assay to detect invasive freshwater clam Corbicula, finding it in four out of 11 lakes where it already existed. The test revealed the location and abundance of clams, confirming its potential for monitoring new populations and preventing ecosystem degradation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalManagement of Biological Invasions·DateNov 17, 2017

Infrared NASA imagery shows development of Tropical Depression 31W

Tropical Depression 31W is developing in the South China Sea with cloud tops reaching minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating potential heavy rainfall. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects 31W to strengthen into a tropical storm by Nov 18 and make landfall in southeastern Vietnam on Nov 19.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 17, 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.

A walk at the mall or the park? New study shows, for moms and daughters, a walk in the park is best

A new study from the University of Illinois found that taking a 20-minute walk in nature with moms and daughters can improve their interactions and reduce mental fatigue. The research supports the attention restoration theory, which suggests that interaction with natural environments can restore attentional functioning.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateNov 17, 2017

First-graders fitter than expected

A study found that first-grade students showed improvements in speed and balance over a decade, while endurance performance remained stable. In contrast, boys' endurance decreased compared to girls of the same age.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateNov 17, 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.

When to fish: Timing matters for fish that migrate to reproduce

A new University of Washington study reveals that human fishing seasons disproportionately target certain fish, altering life history patterns and reducing population diversity. This can have significant impacts on the ability of fish to adapt to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateNov 17, 2017

New interdisciplinary research program in biomedical innovation law

The University of Copenhagen's new Collaborative Research Programme in Biomedical Innovation Law (CeBIL) aims to translate groundbreaking biomedical research into affordable therapies. CeBIL will study novel legal frameworks for drug development incentives and regulations, taking into account patient needs and market complexities.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Law·DateNov 17, 2017

ESMO Consortium study reveals inequality in access to treatment in Asia

The ESMO International Consortium Study found dramatic disparities in access to anti-cancer medications, even among essential medicines recommended by the World Health Organization. In Lower Middle- and Low-Income countries, many essential medications are available only at full cost, limiting accessibility.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateNov 17, 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.

Link between obesity and cancer is not widely recognized

A new study found that only a quarter of UK adults understand the connection between weight issues and cancer, despite obesity being linked to 13 types of cancer. The study also highlighted misconceptions about cancer types linked to obesity and the impact of socio-economic background on awareness.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateNov 17, 2017

Breakthrough could launch organic electronics beyond cell phone screens

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new approach to increase the conductivity of organic semiconductors, which could lead to more widespread use of organic electronics. The breakthrough involves using a ruthenium-containing compound that adds electrons to the semiconductor, increasing its conductivity by about a millio...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 17, 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.

RUDN chemists synthesized a new catalyst for oil and gas processing

A team of scientists created a new catalyst that activates oxidation processes in low-reactive components of oil and gas, producing valuable products such as acids and alcohols. The researchers discovered the possibility of targeted production of pentanuclear products, which are stable in both solid and solution states.

SourceRUDN University·JournalJournal of Organometallic Chemistry·DateNov 17, 2017

Carefully crafted light pulses control neuron activity

A new study demonstrates the use of carefully crafted, ultrafast light pulses to control neuron activity in mice. This technique, called coherent control, could one day help patients with light-sensitive circadian or mood problems by regulating chemical reactions and ion flow.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 17, 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.

Heavy nitrogen molecules reveal planetary-scale tug-of-war

A team of scientists from Rice, UCLA, Michigan State, and UNM discovered a significant enrichment of heavy nitrogen molecules in the Earth's atmosphere. This finding suggests that life on Earth is locked in a tug-of-war with the deep Earth and upper atmosphere over the presence of these rare molecules.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 17, 2017

What grosses out a chimpanzee?

Researchers found that chimpanzees delay eating food placed on replica feces, recoil from soft and moist substrates, and hesitate after touching them. These reactions suggest that chimpanzees have an adaptive system of disgust, similar to humans, which helps protect them from pathogens and parasites.

SourceKyoto University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 17, 2017

Decrease in sunshine, increase in rickets

A study by Haris Majeed and Professor G.W.K. Moore found a correlation between declining summer sunshine and rising Rickets cases among British children, with median incidences doubling between 1997 and 2011.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 17, 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.

Warmer water signals change for Scotland's shags

Climate change is altering Scotland's seabirds' diet, with European Shags increasing their diversity of fish prey. Warmer waters signal changes in sandeel availability and hunting habits, potentially impacting conservation efforts.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateNov 17, 2017

Brain astrocytes linked to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that astrocytes in AD patients produced more beta-amyloid and cytokines, leading to brain inflammation and weakened neurons. Astrocyte function alterations may play a key role in early AD stages and neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 17, 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.

Anti-malaria drug shows promise as Zika virus treatment

A new study by Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute found that chloroquine, an anti-malarial drug, reduces the transmission of Zika virus from mother to fetus. The research suggests that chloroquine may be effective in treating and preventing Zika infections.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 17, 2017

Research shows drones could help crop management take off

Researchers found that a multi-spectral camera mounted on a quad-copter provided more accurate results than a digital camera, with over 93% accuracy in estimating plant populations. The study aims to improve crop monitoring efficiency and profitability for farmers.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateNov 17, 2017

Mathematician's study of 'swarmalators' could direct future science

A mathematician's study on 'swarmalators' reveals new class of math problems, finding rich patterns in time and space through coupling of synchronization and swarming. This research opens doors for various parts of science, exploring new areas and possibilities.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 2017

Age and gut bacteria contribute to MS disease progression, according to Rutgers

A study by Rutgers University researchers suggests that gut bacteria at a young age contributes to the onset and progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The study found that genetically engineered mice exposed to normal environment developed MS-like disease, highlighting the role of gut bacteria in triggering immune system changes.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2017

Brain activity buffers against worsening anxiety

A new study by Duke University researchers found that people at-risk for anxiety were less likely to develop the disorder if they had higher activity in a region of the brain responsible for complex mental operations. Higher functioning dorsolateral prefrontal cortex may buffer against worsening anxiety.

SourceDuke University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateNov 17, 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 tragedy of the seagrass commons

Researchers found that seagrass meadows are globally extensive fishing habitats, with significant impact on daily food supply and livelihoods in developing countries. The study highlights the need for recognition of seagrass habitats' value in supporting fisheries.

SourceSwansea University·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateNov 17, 2017

Carbon emissions by plant respiration will have large impact on climate

Researchers found plant respiration releases 30% more carbon dioxide than previously estimated, posing a significant threat to the Earth's ability to absorb fossil fuel emissions. The study's findings are based on comprehensive data from over 10,000 measurements and suggest that as temperatures rise, plant respiration will increase sig...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 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.

Researchers tunnel to a new light source

Researchers at Ohio State University describe a new semiconductor LED made with GaN-based materials that could enhance LED solid state lighting without significant changes to manufacturing facilities. The breakthrough uses quantum-mechanical tunneling to create 'holes' for radiative recombination, reducing energy losses and self-heating.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateNov 17, 2017