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Science News Archive September 2017 - Page 35


Page 35 of 39

Predatory journals a global problem

A massive investigation published in Nature reveals that a majority of papers in suspected biomedical predatory journals are from high or upper-middle income countries. The study analyzed 1,907 research papers and found that top countries publishing in these journals include India, the US, Nigeria, Iran, and Japan.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalNature·DateSep 6, 2017

Does the organic material of comets predate our solar system?

A recent study published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society reveals that comet nuclei contain 40% organic matter by mass, which was produced in interstellar space before the formation of our solar system. This finding has significant implications for the origin of life on Earth and potentially other planets.

SourceCNRS·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 6, 2017

Why US battery startups fail -- and how to fix it

A new study investigates why US battery material startups are failing under current venture capital funding models. The authors draw inspiration from the pharmaceutical industry, providing recommendations for entrepreneurs, investors, manufacturers, and policy-makers to improve commercialization chances.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalMRS Energy & Sustainability·DateSep 6, 2017

Molecular map shows how to disable dangerous bioweapon

Researchers at Duke University mapped out the complex molecular circuitry of Francisella tularensis, a bacterium that causes tularemia and is considered one of the world's most infectious pathogens. By understanding how the bacteria becomes virulent, scientists can design new drugs to shut down its virulence.

SourceDuke University·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 6, 2017

Parkinson's severity assessed through drawing

A team of researchers in Australia developed an automatic system to diagnose Parkinson's disease severity from drawing speed and pen pressure measurements. The system combines these metrics into a single measurement, the Composite Index of Speed and Pen-pressure score, allowing for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of treatment effects.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateSep 6, 2017

New immigrants in Germany

A joint research project between universities in Germany will survey 6,000 refugees and other immigrants to understand their characteristics, experiences, and future plans. The study aims to assess how different immigrant groups integrate into German society, including those from EU member states and non-EU countries.

A touch of EroS

Researchers discovered a bacterium that stimulates single-cell saltwater dwellers to form colonies and mate, providing insight into eukaryote-bacterium interactions. The study also revealed the production of chondroitin in primitive organisms, challenging evolutionary timelines.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 2017

Fuel economy standards cheaper, more beneficial than previously believed

A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that fuel economy standards are not as difficult to meet as previously believed, with potential benefits including lower costs for consumers and automakers. The research also suggests that slightly slower acceleration times can significantly reduce overall emissions.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 6, 2017

New microscopy method for quick and reliable 3-D imaging of curvilinear nanostructures

EPFL researchers have developed a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) method to generate fast and reliable 3D images of complex curvilinear structures. This tilt-less 3D electron imaging technique can acquire images in a single shot, opening up new avenues for real-time 3D imaging of dynamic material and biological processes.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2017

Curves in all the right places

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have created the first evidence-based growth standards chart for dogs, allowing veterinarians to assess and monitor growth in canine patients. The study used data from over six million dogs visiting Banfield Pet Hospitals, resulting in five weight ranges with separate male and female curves.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 6, 2017

New model for hard-to-study form of blindness paves way for future research

A new human stem cell model has been developed to study macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. The model, created by researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center, mimics key characteristics of the disease and could lead to new avenues of research and potential drug targets.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2017