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Science News Archive September 2017 - Page 22


Page 22 of 39

Quantum machine learning

Researchers reviewed the status of classical and quantum machine learning, exploring its potential to analyze both classical and quantum data. Quantum machines could accelerate processing timescales using quantum annealers and universal quantum computers.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature·DateSep 14, 2017

$10M DOE grant to help boost camelina oilseed yield

Michigan State University will lead a $10 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to explore ways to boost camelina oilseed's yield. The team aims to achieve up to a 300-percent increase per acre in oil production by studying the plant's metabolic and gene expression networks.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 14, 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.

Treatment of overweight: Is metabolically healthy obesity a worthwhile initial goal?

Researchers found that a weight loss of more than 10% can lead to a significant reduction in disease risk for individuals with metabolically unhealthy obesity. This intermediate goal can serve as a low-hanging fruit, providing documented protection against obesity-related metabolic diseases, and improving patient motivation through doc...

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateSep 14, 2017

$1.6M from NSF to UC Davis to study water, land use in disadvantaged communities

The National Science Foundation has awarded a $1.6M grant to UC Davis to analyze the complex relationships between surface water and groundwater supply, agricultural land use and economic wellbeing of rural, disadvantaged communities. The project aims to provide new insights for other regions facing similar issues and help local commun...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateSep 14, 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.

Tiny fighters in sediments determine success of invasive marine plants

Researchers found that microbes associated with native species provide resistance to invasion, while those with invaders break down this resistance and may poison native plants. The study suggests a new way to restore the balance of microbial communities in sediments to reduce the risk of invasive marine species.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2017

Thirdhand smoke exposure effects on liver and brain found to worsen over time

Researchers found that thirdhand smoke exposure causes significant health effects in mice as early as one month after initiation of exposure, including liver damage and insulin resistance. The effects worsen with time, with stress hormones increasing and immune fatigue developing at longer exposure durations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalClinical Science·DateSep 14, 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.

The return of the comet-like exoplanet

Astronomers have discovered an exoplanet, GJ 436b, with a huge gas cloud resembling a comet's tail, caused by intense stellar irradiation. The planet's atmosphere loses hydrogen due to the star's radiation, forming a massive cloud that absorbs UV radiation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateSep 14, 2017

Engineered therapy for blood clotting disorder shows early promise

Researchers have created an engineered form of ADAMTS-13 (BAX 930) to restore the missing enzyme in patients with congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a rare and life-threatening blood disease. The therapy was found to be safe and effective, with no allergic reactions or serious adverse events.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateSep 14, 2017

Microbial mass movements

The study highlights how human activities like tourism, trade, and agriculture impact microbial populations worldwide. Researchers warn of potential extinction risks for some microbes due to increased competition and spreading of antibiotic resistance genes.

SourceScience in Public·JournalScience·DateSep 14, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A subtler sexism now frames TV coverage of women in sports

A study by USC researchers found that women's sports receive nearly the same level of coverage as men's sports, with subtle sexism still present in mainstream broadcast coverage. Women's stories averaged only 77 seconds on SportsCenter, compared to men's stories, and are often framed in a 'gender-bland' way.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalGender & Society·DateSep 14, 2017

Chronic pain common in people living with HIV

Chronic pain affects 39-85% of people living with HIV, with neuropathic pain being a significant concern. Guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary treatment approach using non-drug options such as cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, and physical therapy.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 14, 2017

Fitness trackers could benefit from better security, study finds

A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that popular fitness trackers have security weaknesses that can compromise users' personal data. The team discovered vulnerabilities in communication procedures and demonstrated how to intercept messages and bypass encryption systems.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateSep 14, 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.

Impaired sleep may have serious health consequences for kidney disease patients

A study found that individuals with chronic kidney disease who experienced high sleep fragmentation were at elevated risk of developing kidney failure. Higher sleep fragmentation and shorter sleep duration were also linked to steeper declines in kidney function over time. Subjectively measured daytime sleepiness was associated with an ...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 14, 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.

That's one small step for a DNA robot, one giant leap for mankind

Researchers have created miniature DNA robots that can pick up particles and deliver them to different areas using origami tracks. The robots, which move randomly along the track, have an 80% chance of successful delivery and can perform tasks such as assembling chemical compounds or rearranging nanoparticles on circuits.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 14, 2017

Sorting molecules with DNA robots

Researchers develop a single-strand DNA robot that can autonomously pick up and sort molecules into distinct regions on a surface. The robot successfully sorted six scattered molecules in 24 hours, and its design can be generalized to work with dozens of types of cargos.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 14, 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.

The bilingual brain calculates differently depending on the language used

Multilingual individuals face challenges when solving arithmetic tasks in a second language, relying on alternative thought processes and brain regions not observed in monolinguals. Functional magnetic resonance imaging revealed distinct brain activity patterns when using different languages.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateSep 14, 2017

Maintaining healthy weight helps keep blood pressure low through life

New research reveals that maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in preventing high blood pressure, with participants who kept their weight in check being 41% less likely to develop increasing blood pressure. The study also found that focusing on weight management can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 14, 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.

People of color exposed to more pollution from cars, trucks, power plants over 10 years

A new nationwide study found that people of color were consistently exposed to more air pollution than whites, with a relative gap that persisted across the decade. The study estimated that if non-white populations had breathed lower NO2 levels, it would have prevented an estimated 5,000 premature deaths from heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 14, 2017

No strings attached for underwater video system

A flexible technology for streaming high-quality underwater video images has been developed by improving bandwidth to achieve better video quality. This innovation has the potential to open up new exploration and monitoring opportunities in oceans, which cover over two-thirds of our planet.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Optical Communications and Networking·DateSep 14, 2017

Study offers scientific explanation for why spurned males abandon courtship attempts

A UC Riverside-led study identified two hormones (ecdysis triggering hormone and juvenile hormone) and a neurotransmitter (dopamine) that regulate courtship memories in males. The study found that these molecules are critical to maintaining aversive memories of failed courtship attempts, influencing future behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 14, 2017

Shifting attitudes on pre-planned death raises new questions for clinicians

Clinicians must consider alternative modes of responding to challenges posed by pre-planned deaths, where decisionally capable individuals choose the time, place, and manner of their death. The concept raises questions about dignity, care, and terminology surrounding physician-assisted suicide and patient-initiated, self-conducted deaths.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateSep 14, 2017

NASA's Terra satellite spies Typhoon Talim's large eye

Typhoon Talim's powerful storm system was observed by NASA's Terra satellite on Sept. 14, revealing a large open eye surrounded by intense thunderstorms. The storm is expected to make landfall in Japan and move northwards, prompting warnings from China and Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 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.

Corrosion in real time

Researchers used the Surface Forces Apparatus to investigate crevice and pitting corrosion in confined spaces. They observed intense local corrosion resulting in sudden pit formation, highlighting the complexity of the process and its dependence on electric potential difference.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2017

Parkinson's disease and prion diseases: Discovery of a molecular link

A recent study has discovered an unexpected link between Parkinson's disease and prion diseases, revealing a complex interaction between α-synuclein and the prion protein. The findings suggest that α-synuclein deposits in brain cells can slow the progression of prion diseases.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2017

Young binge drinkers show altered brain activity

Researchers found distinctive changes in brain activity of young binge-drinking college students, which may indicate early signs of brain damage. The study suggests that bingeing has tangible effects on the young brain, comparable with those seen in chronic alcoholics.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateSep 14, 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.

Filtering molecules from the water or air with nanomembranes

Researchers have created ultra-thin carbon nanomembranes that can filter out specific molecules from water and air, with significant implications for purification and other industries. The membranes' unique properties can be tailored to suit different purposes, making them versatile tools in various fields.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 14, 2017

NASA sees Typhoon Doksuri in the South China Sea

Typhoon Doksuri appeared well-rounded and organized on satellite imagery as it moved through the north central South China Sea toward Vietnam. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 85 knots (97.8 mph) and was expected to make landfall south of the city of Vinh on the coast of Vietnam on September 15.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 2017

New insights into nanocrystal growth in liquid

The study reveals how arrangement of atoms creates forces that pull crystals together and align them. Researchers found that manipulating attraction through ion type, concentration, and temperature can control crystallization.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2017

Huge genetic diversity among Papuan New Guinean peoples revealed

A large-scale genetic study of Papuan New Guinean people found strong genetic differences between groups, reflecting linguistic and cultural diversity. The study suggests that the country's isolated highlands region has remained genetically independent for thousands of years.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 14, 2017

NASA-NOAA Satellite spots 2 tails of Hurricane Max

The Suomi NPP satellite captured an image of Hurricane Max on Sept. 13, revealing two 'tails' of thunderstorms feeding into the low-level center. Maximum sustained winds reached near 75 mph (120 kph), with higher gusts and a minimum central pressure of 992 millibars.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Mixing artificial sweeteners inhibits bitter taste receptors

Researchers discovered that saccharin inhibits the activity of bitter taste receptors stimulated by cyclamate, while cyclamate reduces the off-taste elicited by saccharin. This finding provides tools for developing superior sweetener blends and improving their taste in food products.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateSep 14, 2017

MRI effective in detecting postpartum breast cancers

A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that MRI had a 98% sensitivity rate in detecting postpartum breast cancers, leading to changes in surgical management for 28% of patients. The study also highlighted the importance of preoperative planning in managing these aggressive cancers.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateSep 14, 2017

Kids praised for being smart are more likely to cheat

A recent study published in Psychological Science found that praising children for their intelligence can lead to dishonest behavior and cheating as early as age 3. The research suggests that this type of praise can create performance pressure, causing kids to feel compelled to cheat in order to meet expectations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 14, 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.

GPM satellite finds sheared Hurricane Jose has very tall storms

Hurricane Jose was found to have extremely intense downpours within its powerful convective storms, with rain falling at rates of over 8.9 inches per hour. The GPM satellite's 3D cross-section revealed storm tops reaching altitudes greater than 10.85 miles high.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 2017

NASa sees remnants of irma ready to exit Eastern US

NASA's Terra satellite and NOAA's GOES East satellite monitored the movement of Irma's remnant clouds, tracking their path across the Midwest, Pennsylvania, New England, and upstate New York. The low-pressure system associated with the remnants is expected to slide off the U.S. East coast on Friday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 2017

Poor sleep hastens progression of kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease is characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time. Poor sleep duration and quality are associated with steeper declines in kidney function and increased risk of developing kidney failure.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 14, 2017

'Handedness' in scale-eating fish: Nature and nurture

A study by Nagoya University researchers reveals that behavioral laterality in scale-eating fish is acquired through experience, with juveniles initially attacking both sides before favoring a dominant side. The stronger side's kinetic advantages support the theory that lateralized behavior is naturally determined.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 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.

Hydrogen power moves a step closer

Scientists are developing methods to create renewable fuel from water using quantum technology, marking a significant step forward in the pursuit of sustainable energy. The Global Precipitation Measurement mission revealed intense downpours within Hurricane Jose's powerful convective storms.

SourceLancaster University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2017

Electric eels leap to deliver painful, Taser-like jolt

Researchers have found that electric eels use a clever trick to deliver an intense shock: they leap from the water to target threatening animals above water. This behavior prevents their electrical discharges from weakening as they dissipate through the water, making it a more effective way to deter predators.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 14, 2017

Toward ending an environmental nightmare

A team of Stanford researchers is using satellite data to track and identify brick kilns in South Asia, which are a major source of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The initiative aims to raise public awareness and incentivize kiln owners to switch to cleaner technologies.

SourceStanford University·DateSep 14, 2017

Study: Most people newly recommended to take statins are from disadvantaged backgrounds, less likely to have health insurance and take medications as prescribed

A new study found that most people newly recommended to take cholesterol-lowering medication under new American guidelines are from disadvantaged populations. These groups are less likely to have health insurance and receive recommended medications, highlighting access gaps in the healthcare system.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·DateSep 14, 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.