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Science News for October 13, 2017


On the generation of solar spicules and Alfvenic waves

A new model reveals that neutral particles facilitate magnetic field penetration through the Sun's surface, producing spicules. This leads to the generation of Alfvén waves, which are thought to heat the sun's atmosphere and propel the solar wind.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalScience·DateOct 13, 2017

Study finds surgeries performed later in the day have more complications

A new study by Oxford University Press USA found that patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures between 9 pm and 7 am are at a higher risk of developing complications. The odds of complication more than doubled when accounting for the length of the surgery, highlighting the importance of performing surgeries during daylight hours.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNeurosurgery·DateOct 13, 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.

Study reveals complex biology, gender differences, in kidney cancer

A new study published in Nature Communications describes the unique role of androgens in kidney cancer, suggesting a potential new approach to treatment. Researchers found that androgen signaling can either stimulate or suppress tumor cell movement and invasion, with male patients being more likely to spread to the lungs.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2017

Restless legs syndrome study identifies 13 new genetic risk variants

Researchers have identified 13 new genetic risk variants for restless legs syndrome, a condition affecting up to one in ten people of European ancestry. The findings suggest that the condition may be related to neurodevelopmental disorders and offer clues for developing new treatments, including drugs like thalidomide.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateOct 13, 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.

Insight into the challenges and contributions of nurse bioethicists

University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing's Connie M. Ulrich emphasizes the value of ethic preparedness among nurse bioethicists, addressing challenges in everyday practice and nursing's role in bioethics and care delivery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalPerspectives in Biology and Medicine·DateOct 13, 2017

Worms reveal secrets of aging

A new molecular pathway controlling lifespan and healthspan has been identified in worms and mammals. Excess levels of proteins called Kruppel-like transcription factors (KLFs) can extend lifespan and improve blood vessel function, highlighting a potential target for age-related diseases.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The melting ice makes the sea around Greenland less saline

Ocean data from Northeast Greenland reveals long-term impact of ice sheet melting on freshwater content, affecting fjords and global ocean circulation. The study finds that increased freshwater input reduces plankton algae production, impacting fish stocks and potentially European climate.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 13, 2017

Case Center for Synchrotron Biosciences wins AAMC Award for Resource Sharing

The Case Center for Synchrotron Biosciences has been awarded the second prize in the 2017 Sharing Research Resources Award by the American Association of Medical Colleges. The center provides access to advanced technology, training, and support to researchers worldwide, enabling them to conduct research on biological macromolecules.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateOct 13, 2017

Study identifies genetic clues to spinal stenosis

A new study linked certain genetic changes to an increased risk of developing lumbar spinal stenosis. The research, involving 469 individuals, provides insights into the potential causes and may help identify patients at risk early.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateOct 13, 2017

Model predicts how E. coli bacteria adapt under stress

Researchers developed a genome-scale model that predicts how E. coli cells respond to temperature changes and genetic mutations, highlighting the importance of chaperone networks in adaptive cell modeling for precision medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 13, 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.

Augmented tongue ultrasound for speech therapy

A team of researchers developed a system that displays tongue movements in real time, using machine learning algorithms to control an articulatory talking head. This 'visual biofeedback' system can help patients with articulation disorders correct pronunciation problems faster.

SourceCNRS·JournalSpeech Communication·DateOct 13, 2017

Atrazine alters the sex ration in Blanchard's cricket frogs

A study found that atrazine exposure increases feminization in male Blanchard's cricket frogs, altering their sex ratio. The species is highly sensitive to atrazine, which disrupts gonadal development and impacts ecological trajectories.

SourceSociety of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateOct 13, 2017

MS risk in children spotted with MRI brain scans

A new study at Yale University identified changes in the brain associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) using MRI scans in children. The researchers found that approximately 42% of children with abnormal MRI findings developed clinical MS symptoms within two years, highlighting the importance of closer follow-up for this high-risk group.

SourceYale University·DateOct 13, 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.

Science: Ambassadors from distant galaxies

The Pierre Auger Observatory detects a large-scale anisotropy in the arrival directions of cosmic rays above 8×10^18 eV, indicating their extragalactic origin. Researchers believe the source region may be located near the Milky Way galaxy.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience·DateOct 13, 2017

Penn researchers receive $6.4m in NIH funding to create center to transform mental health services

Researchers at Penn will launch the ALACRITY Center with three projects to enhance treatment for people served through publicly-funded mental health systems. The center aims to identify effective ways to encourage patients to take antidepressant medication and improve use of evidence-based practices among one-to-one aides assigned to w...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateOct 13, 2017

First atomic structure from UTSW's cryo-EM facility

Researchers solved the structure of mouse TRPML1 ion channel using UT Southwestern's cryo-EM facility, a breakthrough that may aid in treating mucolipidosis type IV, a rare neurodegenerative disease. The study utilizes a novel sample preparation technique and cutting-edge software to reveal atomic-level details of the protein.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2017

AASM releases position statement on home sleep apnea testing

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has released a position statement on home sleep apnea testing, emphasizing the importance of a physician's involvement in diagnosing and treating obstructive sleep apnea. The guideline outlines conditions under which a home sleep apnea test can be used for diagnosis.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateOct 13, 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.

Astronomers find potential solution into how planets form

Astronomers have discovered a new insight into how planets form, using high-powered telescopes to target the star V1247 Orionis. The team found a dust-trapping vortex that could protect sites of planet formation, allowing dust particles to clump together and grow.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 13, 2017

Study shows proteins may prevent dysfunction and disease by relaxing

Researchers found that proteins remain fully or partially unfolded for parts of their lives, contradicting the long-held belief they must fold into complicated shapes to fulfill functions. The study suggests these unfolded proteins may reduce unwanted interactions by being expanded, potentially preventing dysfunction and disease.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·DateOct 13, 2017

Mimetic Martian water is under pressure

Researchers analyzed the structure of mimetic Martian water to understand how it could exist on the Martian surface. They found that concentrated perchlorate solutions could survive low temperatures, raising questions about the possibility of life on Mars.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2017

Study finds N-alpha-acetyltransferase D (NatD) promotes lung cancer progression

Researchers found that NatD promotes lung cancer progression by preventing histone H4 serine phosphorylation, leading to increased invasiveness and poor clinical outcomes. Depletion of NatD suppresses EMT via repression of Slug expression, suggesting a new therapeutic target for cancer treatment.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 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.

PPPL takes detailed look at 2-D structure of turbulence in tokamaks

Researchers at PPPL studied the 2-D spatial correlations within turbulence in tokamaks to understand its origin and behavior. The study provides clues to the cause of heat leakage from magnetic confinement and could help predict turbulence behavior, deepening our understanding of fusion reactions.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateOct 13, 2017

Deterring drones from ballparks and botanical gardens

Researchers at Duke University are developing guidelines for deterring unwanted drones from ballparks and botanical gardens. The project, funded by a $750,000 grant, aims to create passive, inexpensive solutions that can detect and deter drones without compromising safety and privacy.

SourceDuke University·DateOct 13, 2017

Scientists demonstrate path to linking the genome to healthy tissues and disease

Researchers have developed a mechanistic model for how healthy bodies function and identified key genetic variants that contribute to complex diseases. The study, co-led by Princeton University scientists, used multi-tissue data from over 449 donors to map associations between genetic variants and gene expression levels.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 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.

Scientists reveal the relationship between sugar and cancer

Researchers found a link between sugar consumption and cancer development through yeast cell research, clarifying the Warburg effect. The study suggests that high sugar metabolism in cancer cells stimulates tumor growth.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2017

New study demonstrates importance of studying sleep and eating in tandem

A new study from Scripps Research Institute found that sleep loss cannot be explained by caffeine intake alone, but rather by changes in feeding behavior. The research suggests that studying sleep and eating together could lead to the development of therapies for metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalSLEEP·DateOct 13, 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.

What is the scope of neurological diseases in the world today?

The study highlights the growing impact of neurological disorders on global health, with increased deaths and disabilities over the past 25 years. The most prevalent disorders are tension-type headaches, migraine, and Alzheimer's disease, which have seen significant increases in cases and DALYs.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateOct 13, 2017

Learning and staying in shape key to longer lifespan, study finds

A major study of genetic information found that education leads to a longer life, with almost a year added for each year spent studying beyond school. Lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, studying longer, and being open to new experiences also contribute to a longer lifespan.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2017

Usutu virus is back -- not only in blackbirds but also in humans

After a 10-year absence, Usutu virus has reemerged in both blackbirds and humans, particularly in Austria and Hungary. Genetic analysis reveals that the viruses circulating in these regions are closely related to those found in Italy, demonstrating inter-country transmission of viral strains.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalEmerging Microbes & Infections·DateOct 13, 2017

Gutters teem with inconspicuous life

Scientists discovered that Parisian street gutters are home to a diverse community of microorganisms, including eukaryotes such as algae, fungi, sponges, and mollusks. The researchers identified over 6,900 potential species in the water and biofilms collected from various districts of Paris.

SourceCNRS·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateOct 13, 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.

Milimeter-wave technologies, the promise of 5G wireless communications

Researchers from IMDEA Networks and Huawei are developing a joint project to explore the synergies between traditional WiFi/LTE networks and state-of-the-art millimeter-wave networks for 5G. The partnership aims to improve steering accuracy and data throughput in millimeter-wave networks, paving the way for widespread adoption.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·DateOct 13, 2017

A gamma ray burst observed in unprecedented detail

Researchers used robotic telescope MASTER-IAC to observe gamma ray burst GRB160625B, revealing that a strong magnetic field controls the jets at first, then matter takes control. The study suggests that both factors play a basic role in the formation of black holes and gamma ray bursts.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2017

NSF announces $19.5 million in awards

The NSF's Smart & Connected Communities program has awarded $19.5 million to 38 projects across the US, focusing on public safety, water systems, community health, energy, transportation, and rural planning. Researchers will collaborate with diverse stakeholders to address challenges and transform communities.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateOct 13, 2017

New mechanism detected in Alzheimer's disease

McGill researchers uncover a cellular mechanism contributing to communication breakdown between neurons in Alzheimer's disease. They found inadequate levels of the protein RBFOX1, which stabilizes RNAs involved in synaptic transmission, may be a factor in faulty connections characteristic of Alzheimer's.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2017

A single photon reveals quantum entanglement of 16 million atoms

Researchers at UNIGE have successfully demonstrated the entanglement of 16 million atoms in a crystal crossed by a single photon, confirming the theory behind future quantum networks. This breakthrough confirms that a vast number of atoms can be entangled and intertwined by a strong quantum relationship.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 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.