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Science News for September 29, 2017


Black children less likely to see doctor for eczema despite being more severely affected

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that black children with eczema are 30% less likely to see a doctor for treatment compared to white children. Despite having more severe disease, minority children experience lower healthcare utilization rates due to various barriers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateSep 29, 2017

Study ranks safety, effectiveness of cognitive enhancers for Alzheimer's

A new study ranks the safety and effectiveness of four cognitive enhancers for Alzheimer's dementia, finding that donepezil is most likely to improve cognition. However, patients taking donepezil are more likely to experience side effects such as nausea and vomiting.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 29, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Extra sulphur improves electronic structure of quantum dots

Researchers from University of Groningen have discovered a way to increase charge conductivity in lead-sulphur quantum dots by adding extra sulphur. This breakthrough enables the tuning of electric properties, improving efficiency of quantum dot solar cells above current records.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 29, 2017

Physical abuse and punishment impact children's academic performance

Research suggests that physical abuse and punishment negatively impact children's academic performance, with harsh corporal punishment increasing peer isolation. Parent education on alternative forms of punishment may be a solution to prevent physical abuse and promote children's cognitive development.

SourcePenn State·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateSep 29, 2017

Ultracold atoms point toward an intriguing magnetic behavior

Researchers at Princeton University discovered a unique magnetic behavior in ultracold atoms, which is consistent with the Fermi-Hubbard model. The team found that applying a strong magnetic field caused the atoms to line up in an alternating pattern and lean away from each other.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2017

New med-tech zinc sensor developed

A new zinc sensor has been developed by researchers at the University of Adelaide, enabling real-time detection and measurement of zinc levels in cells. The sensor's innovative design allows for continuous or repeated measurements within a single biological sample, opening up new possibilities for diagnostic tools.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalACS Omega·DateSep 29, 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.

New mouse model replicates an underlying cause of intellectual disability

Researchers developed a new mouse model lacking the Upf3b gene to study its underlying role in intellectual disabilities and neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found that Upf3b-deficient mice exhibited defects in neural stem cell specialization, dendrite formation, and sensory processing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 29, 2017

Who's judging you based on brand choices?

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that individuals with a flexible mindset are less inclined to make assumptions about someone's character based on brand choice. In contrast, those with a fixed mindset tend to believe that behavior is consistent over time and across situations.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateSep 29, 2017

A new approach to cancer drug discovery

Researchers used a proteomics platform to identify proteins with reactive cysteines in non-small-cell lung cancer cells, which could be targeted by drugs. The study found that targeting the protein NR0B1 reduced abnormal growth in NRF2-activated lung cancers.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 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.

NASA sees a weaker Hurricane Lee headed to the UK

Hurricane Lee is weakening due to wind shear, with forecasters predicting gusty winds in Ireland and the UK over Sept. 30-Oct. 1. NASA satellite imagery shows the storm's disorganization, with wind shear pushing clouds to the south and southeast of the eye.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 29, 2017

UMN Medical School's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research receives NIH U01 grant

The University of Minnesota Medical School's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research has been awarded a $3.5 million NIH grant to develop new, efficient, and safe stimulation paradigms for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). The project aims to improve treatment quality for patients with disabling neurological symptoms by increasing the preci...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·DateSep 29, 2017

New study changes our view on flying insects

Researchers at Lund University have discovered an optimal speed for certain insects when they fly, consuming the least amount of energy. Flying slowly or fast requires the most effort, with a moderate speed of 2-3 meters per second being the most energy-efficient.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateSep 29, 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.

Magnetic electrodes increase solar cell efficiency

Researchers at CIC nanoGUNE developed a photovoltaic device using magnetic materials as electrodes, increasing efficiency by 14%. The device produces alternating current directly, eliminating the need for transformers. Further improvements are being pursued to build more efficient solar modules.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2017

Bioreactors on a chip renew promises for algal biofuels

Scientists have created Algal droplet bioreactors on a chip that can screen millions of cells for improved growth rates and lipid content. The technology holds promise for accelerating the discovery of super algal strains that can efficiently produce biofuels, potentially making commercial-scale production a reality.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalPlant Direct·DateSep 29, 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.

Climate's effects on flowers critical for bumble bees

A study by North Carolina State University researchers found that climate change impacts bumble bees through changes in flowering seasons, not just direct effects. Longer flowering seasons may actually lead to fewer flowers available for bees, resulting in reduced bee abundance and population decline.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEcology Letters·DateSep 29, 2017

NASA satellite highlights burn scars in British Columbia

British Columbia has been severely impacted by forest fires, with large portions of the landscape decimated by fire. The NASA's Aqua satellite provides a clear visual representation of the extent of the damage through its natural color and false color images.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 29, 2017

New proton 'starter' for optogenetics

Researchers have discovered a new protein, NsXeR, that can activate individual neurons and control muscle contractions with high precision. This breakthrough optogenetic tool bypasses uncontrolled calcium translocation, reducing potential side effects.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 29, 2017

Elderly who have trouble identifying odors face risk of dementia

A long-term study of 3,000 adults found that those who couldn't identify four out of five common odors were more than twice as likely to develop dementia. The study's lead author notes that the sense of smell is closely connected with brain function and health.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 29, 2017

Algae with light switch

Researchers discovered that Chlamydomonas algae can control its adhesion to surfaces using blue light, a phenomenon that could improve the efficiency of biofuels production. By understanding this mechanism, scientists hope to develop algae strains with modified photoreceptors that don't form biofilms on glass walls.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 29, 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.

Grant will lead to safer, tougher spacesuits

A new protective textile developed at the University of Delaware using shear thickening fluid technology will protect astronauts from punctures and projectiles in space. The technology has been awarded a $750,000 grant to produce a prototype for NASA's Journey to Mars mission.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateSep 29, 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.

Why do we fall asleep when bored?

A new study published in Nature Communications finds that the nucleus accumbens, associated with motivation and pleasure, can produce sleep. This discovery may explain why people tend to fall asleep in boring situations, as it suggests a strong ability of this brain region to induce sleep.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2017

Scientists have found a way to create drug molecules from carbon monoxide

Researchers at RUDN University have developed a new method for creating drug molecules using carbon monoxide as a reducing agent. This innovation offers an energy-efficient solution to producing valuable chemicals, potentially reducing waste and costs. The study's findings suggest that this technology could be used in the synthesis of ...

SourceRUDN University·JournalOrganic & Biomolecular Chemistry·DateSep 29, 2017

Scandinavia's earliest farmers exchanged terminology with Indo-Europeans

Research shows that Neolithic farmers in southern Scandinavia contributed to the development of Indo-European vocabulary before their own language went extinct. Words like 'pea', 'shrimp' and 'turnip' entered Indo-European from local cultures, highlighting cultural exchange between 2,800-2,600 BC.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Humanities·JournalAmerican Journal of Archaeology·DateSep 29, 2017

New functions of hippocampus unveiled

Researchers have discovered that low-frequency activities in the hippocampus drive brain-wide functional connectivity in the cerebral cortex, enhancing sensory responses and learning. This breakthrough suggests the hippocampus is a key region in the brain, with potential therapeutic implications for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Open-access collider data confirm subatomic particle patterns

Researchers used CMS open data to analyze jets produced from proton collisions, revealing a universal feature within subatomic particles. The study demonstrates the scientific value of open access in particle physics and provides a stepping stone for future analysis.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 29, 2017

How the lungs of premature babies can undergo damage

Research reveals that genetic mutations in PDGFR-α and TGF-β signaling pathways contribute to the development of BPD. Lowered production of PDGFR-α leads to increased oxygen demand, defective septation, and apoptosis.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateSep 29, 2017

Nutrition is key to increasing productivity in intensive breeding

Researchers investigate alternatives to address ruminal acidosis, a serious disease affecting intensive farming systems. Feed additives, such as ionophores, can control lactic acid production, reducing the risk of acidosis and improving animal productivity.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateSep 29, 2017

Special focus issue: 'Bioanalysis of biopharmaceuticals'

A Special Focus Issue on 'Bioanalysis of Biopharmaceuticals' has been published by Bioanalysis journal, highlighting recent advances in analysis and development. The issue explores the challenges and novel strategies in bioanalysis of biopharmaceuticals.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalBioanalysis·DateSep 29, 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.

Examining the management of diabetes in special populations

This thematic issue explores customized diabetes management in medically complex patients, including those with mental illness, post-bariatric surgery, older adults, and disparity populations. Key findings highlight the importance of psychosocial assessment and medication adjustments to improve patient outcomes.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Diabetes Reviews·DateSep 29, 2017

Genes that separate humans from fruit flies found

Researchers have identified proteins that control cell complexity in animals, revealing a key difference between humans and simpler organisms like fruit flies and sea urchins. The study found that specific genes interact with chromatin to regulate cellular processes, contributing to the increased complexity of mammals.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 29, 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.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities exposed with new DNA sequencing approach

Researchers have developed a new method to detect and identify the many species involved in these ecologically vital communities, revealing one of the highest levels of species richness recorded to date. The study found that the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities were dominated by a small number of very common fungi.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateSep 29, 2017

Appearance of anisotropic electrical property in oriented material

The study reveals that the anisotropic Qf value is caused by anisotropic electron conductivity and anisotropic bonding strength in the superstructure. The researchers achieved a five-fold increase in Qf parallel to the c-axis compared to perpendicular to it.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalAdvanced Powder Technology·DateSep 29, 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.

Frequent sauna bathing keeps blood pressure in check

Men who batted in saunas 4-7 times a week had lower blood pressure levels than those who only batted once a week. This was attributed to vasodilation, improved endothelial function, and relaxation of the body and mind. Regular sauna bathing also reduced the risk of pulmonary diseases.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateSep 29, 2017

Small collisions make big impact on Mercury's thin atmosphere

Researchers have found that small collisions between comets and Mercury's surface create a lopsided bombardment of tiny dust particles, influencing the planet's very thin atmosphere called an exosphere. The study suggests that specific types of comets, such as Jupiter-family and Halley-type, contribute to this phenomenon.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 29, 2017

CU Anschutz: Law enforcement and gun retailers are resources for safe gun storage

A new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found that law enforcement agencies and gun retailers are willing to offer voluntary, temporary storage of guns to prevent suicide. Most people, including health providers, may not know what safe outside-the-home storage is available and what their options are.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 29, 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.

Gamers have an advantage in learning

A study by Ruhr-University Bochum found that gamers excelled in a learning competition against non-gamers, particularly in situations with high uncertainties. This advantage is linked to increased brain activity in the hippocampus, a key region for learning and memory.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateSep 29, 2017

New regulator of liver metabolism discovered

Researchers at Charité found that retinol saturase plays a role in adaptive processes in liver cells, increasing with body weight and reducing negative metabolic effects associated with excess glucose exposure. The enzyme's inactivation may offer a new approach to treating metabolic liver disease and its related issues.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2017

UV-irradiated amorphous ice behaves like liquid at low temperatures

Researchers from Hokkaido University discovered that UV-irradiated amorphous ice exhibits liquid-like behavior at extremely low temperature ranges. The ice behaves similarly to a liquid, with a viscosity similar to that of honey or silicic magma, allowing it to facilitate the formation of organic compounds and dust accretion on planets.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 29, 2017

Risk of transmission of livestock-associated MRSA to non-farm dwellers is negligible

A study on swine farm volunteers found that levels of MRSA in nasal passages became virtually undetectable after two hours of exposure. Airborne transmission was the primary route of infection, not direct physical contact with animals. The risk of transmission to non-farm dwellers is considered negligible due to this decline.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateSep 29, 2017

Confronted with bacteria, infected cells die so others can live, Penn study finds

In a new study, researchers led by Igor E. Brodsky identified a mechanism that allows host cells to overcome the strategies used by pathogens like Yersinia bacteria to evade the immune system. By understanding this 'back-up alarm' system, scientists may be able to develop new therapies to target tumor cells and promote their demise.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 29, 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.

Antarctica: Return of the Weddell polynya supports Kiel climate model

The Weddell Sea has formed a large ice-free area, supporting the Kiel climate model. This natural phenomenon plays a crucial role in sea ice formation and deep water circulation. Scientists closely monitor its occurrence to improve climate models and differentiate between natural variability and human-induced changes.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalCurrent Climate Change Reports·DateSep 29, 2017