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Science News Archive September 2017 - Page 5


Page 5 of 39

Study confirms large earthquakes along Olympic Mountain faults

A comprehensive study of faults in the Olympic Mountains reveals three to five large earthquakes occurred within the last 13,000 years. The two most recent earthquakes are estimated to be magnitude 7 and 6-7 respectively, posing a significant threat to Seattle and other population centers.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateSep 27, 2017

RUDN chemists obtained new compound for molecular machines

Researchers at RUDN University developed a new complex mercuric compound with unusual structure using non-covalent interactions. The compound can be used to create molecular machines, which are molecules capable of mechanical work.

SourceRUDN University·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateSep 27, 2017

Ancient ink for cancer treatment

Researchers discovered Hu-Kaiwen ink can kill cancer cells without harming normal tissues, offering an alternative to expensive and toxic PTT. The traditional Chinese ink absorbs near-infrared light and heats up when exposed to a laser, demonstrating its potential as a non-toxic photothermal therapy agent.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateSep 27, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unlocking the mysteries of memory -- and potentially enhancing it

Researchers have identified a novel compound called HT-0411 that enhances long-term memory in animals, leveraging CREB activation and monoamine oxidase B inhibition. The study suggests potential for pharmaceutical enhancements of human memory.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateSep 27, 2017

Olive mill wastewater transformed: From pollutant to bio-fertilizer, biofuel

Researchers have developed an environmentally friendly process to transform olive mill wastewater into sustainable products. The process involves embedding the wastewater in cypress sawdust, rapidly drying it, and then subjecting it to pyrolysis to produce bio-oil and charcoal pellets.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateSep 27, 2017

High rate of prescriptions for new cholesterol medications never filled

A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that only 30.9% of patients prescribed PCSK9 inhibitors ever received therapy, largely due to copay costs and prior authorization processes. Patients with governmental insurance and those filled at specialty pharmacies were more likely to be approved.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateSep 27, 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.

The aftermath of Katrina through the eyes of addiction treatment

A study of 11 addiction treatment professionals reflects the increase in prescription drug addictions and staff-related challenges following Hurricane Katrina. The disaster led to the creation of emergency preparedness plans, but participants expressed frustration with federal help conditions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Addictions & Offender Counseling·DateSep 27, 2017

How am I feeling? Ask my house

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a more advanced radar-based device that can accurately measure the body's vital signals without attaching cumbersome wires. This technology has great promise for remote health monitoring and could potentially be integrated into household appliances to monitor residents' vitals.

SourceKyoto University·DateSep 27, 2017

Two new crustacean species discovered on Galician seabed

Researchers discover two new crustacean species in deep waters off the northwest coast of Spain, both blind and measuring just a few millimeters. The species are distinct despite sharing their lack of eyes, with one belonging to the Photidae family and the other to the Corophiidae family.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalZootaxa·DateSep 27, 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.

On a collision course with game theory

Researchers developed a new approach to modeling pedestrian behavior in collisions, combining game theory with the Fokker-Planck equation. Experiments confirm that the calculated paths match actual paths taken, suggesting a reliable solution for optimizing public spaces.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateSep 27, 2017

Reducing disparities in cancer precision medicine

The partnership aims to address health disparities by conducting research on patient-derived cancers and training students in cancer health disparities-based precision medicine. This collaboration seeks to bridge the gap in understanding how to plan cancer prevention and care for underserved populations.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateSep 27, 2017

The volatile processes that shaped the Earth

New research from Oxford University sheds light on the formation of the Earth and its depletion of vital chemical elements. By simulating early Earth conditions, scientists found that melting and evaporation played a key role in shaping the planet's chemistry.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateSep 27, 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.

Study examines survival of very low birthweight babies

A new study published in Acta Paediatrica indicates that survival rates for babies born weighing 500g are alarmingly low. Short-term morbidity is prevalent among surviving infants, with retinopathy of prematurity and chronic lung disease being common issues.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateSep 27, 2017

The benefits & dangers when genetic testing companies partner with orphan drug developers

The partnership between genetic testing companies and orphan drug developers has both positive and negative implications. On the one hand, it can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases. However, there are also concerns over patient privacy and potential price-gouging due to rising healthcare costs.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateSep 27, 2017

From River Weser to the North Sea

A new project aims to discover how microplastics make their way from land to sea and what risks this contamination poses for various ecosystems. The researchers will also examine the impact on human health, environmental education, and develop strategies for sustainable preservation of aquatic ecosystems.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·DateSep 27, 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.

Confronting dementia from lab to bedside

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has received a $1.5 million training grant from the National Institutes of Health to support a new Alzheimer's Disease Clinical and Translational Research Training Program. The program aims to develop diagnostic tools, treatments, and potentially a cure for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateSep 27, 2017

Citizen science can predict butterfly population trends

A new study using Big Butterfly Count (BBC) data from citizen scientists shows that mass-participation science can provide additional assessments of biodiversity change. The results demonstrate the potential for citizen science to inform long-term monitoring of butterfly populations and complement standardised biodiversity monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalConservation Biology·DateSep 27, 2017

Turbocharging engine design

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory used the Mira supercomputer to simulate over 2,000 engine design combinations, reducing design time from months to weeks. The simulations identified two optimized fuel-engine concepts that can improve fuel efficiency substantially.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateSep 27, 2017

Academic performance shapes student social networks

Researchers found that similar-achieving students tend to form close friendships, and this can lead to homogeneous social circles over time. The study's findings have important implications for understanding how social reproduction of inequality works in the digital age.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 27, 2017

Fast and accurate 'dipstick' test for diagnosing Zika

A newly-developed dipstick test sensitively identified Zika virus and all four dengue virus subtypes with no cross-reactivity. The test detected viral proteins at lower concentrations, making it a potential tool for diagnosing emerging pathogens.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 27, 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.

Finding 2-D materials to make batteries cheaper, better

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago are working on discovering new 2D materials to manufacture improved and cost-effective batteries. The goal is to increase battery efficiency by about 1,000 times, enabling sustainable energy generation, chemical manufacturing, and pollution removal.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 27, 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.

Modeling brain connections to understand Parkinson's disease

A computational study models the strength of basal ganglia connections between healthy and Parkinsonian brains, revealing a broad overlap in neural connection strengths. The research could lead to customized therapies specific to individual patterns of neural degeneration.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Computational Neuroscience·DateSep 27, 2017

New test rapidly diagnoses Zika

A new paper-based test developed by MIT researchers can diagnose Zika infection within 20 minutes, accurately distinguishing it from Dengue virus. The test uses antibodies specific to Zika virus's NS1 protein, avoiding false positives common with existing tests.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 27, 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.

Mapping black hole collisions gives astronomers (and hitchhikers) a new guide

RIT researchers, in collaboration with LIGO and Virgo, successfully triangulated the position of a 1.8 billion-year-old black hole merger. With three advanced detectors observing together, scientists can now pinpoint locations with higher precision, enabling more accurate electromagnetic counterparts searches.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 27, 2017

What happens when nerve cells stop working?

Nerve cell networks reorganize themselves during periods of inactivity, becoming hypersensitive and prone to overreaction when signals are reinstated. Researchers developed a high-speed microscopy process to visualize communication networks of living neurons, shedding light on the effects of blocking neural pathways.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 2017

Brain cells that control appetite identified for first time

Scientists at the University of Warwick have identified tanycytes, key brain cells controlling appetite, which detect amino acids in food and inform the brain about fullness. Eating foods high in specific amino acids can activate these cells, leading to feelings of fullness and potentially aiding weight management.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateSep 27, 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.

Examining the lifestyles of microbes

University of Delaware researchers studied microbes from James Cameron's Deepsea Challenge Expedition, revealing a new branch on the microbial family tree. The Parcubacteria were found to have a simple metabolism but with extra features, indicating they may be able to perform anaerobic respiration and adapt to cold environments.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateSep 27, 2017

Pass the salt: Mapping the neurons that drive salt cravings

A team of scientists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has identified a specific subset of neurons that respond to sodium deficiency, triggering an appetite for sodium. The researchers mapped the brain circuitry underlying this behavior and found that it is tightly regulated by hormones such as aldosterone and angiotensin II.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateSep 27, 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.

Should we welcome plans to sell off wasted NHS land?

The NHS plans to sell off unused land to raise funds for essential maintenance and modernization of healthcare services. Kailash Chand, a GP, raises concerns that this approach may not address underlying shortfalls in the health budget and could lead to long-term costs.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 27, 2017

An 'internal GPS' helps seabirds find home

A new animal movement model reveals seabirds orient themselves over an ocean and compensate for wind drift without landmarks, hinting at a 'map sense'. This breakthrough paves the way for analyzing animal decision-making using GPS tracking data.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 27, 2017

'Telephone first' approach is no panacea for reducing GP workload

A telephone-first approach to general practice reduced face-to-face consultations and increased telephone calls, but also led to an increase in emergency admissions. Despite its potential for managing some workloads, the approach was found to be associated with increased GP workload.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 27, 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.

That cup of coffee may not relieve Parkinson's symptoms

A study of 121 people with Parkinson's disease found that consuming three cups of coffee per day did not improve movement symptoms. The researchers concluded that caffeine cannot be recommended as therapy for movement symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 27, 2017

Cellular 'message in a bottle' may provide path to new way of treating disease

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health reveals that extracellular vesicles (EVs) can carry receptors for intercellular communication, allowing signaling without direct cell-to-cell contact. This capability makes EVs uniquely suited to be engineered to send therapeutics directly to affected areas.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 27, 2017

Summer could be one long heatwave if planet hits 2 degrees C

Research by University of New South Wales scientists finds that even a 1.5°C temperature increase will lead to longer and more frequent heatwaves globally. Tropical regions are expected to experience almost constant heatwaves with just a 2°C rise, while others may become unliveable if temperatures increase by 5°C.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 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.

Discovery: Bernie Sanders spider

A research team led by Ingi Agnarsson discovered 15 new species of smiley-faced spiders in the Caribbean region, challenging previous assumptions about a single widespread species. The study highlights the importance of good taxonomy and conservation biology in protecting biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateSep 26, 2017

Notre Dame cancer researchers publish new papers on ovarian cancer tumor growth

Researchers at Notre Dame's Harper Cancer Research Institute have made a breakthrough in understanding how ovarian cancer cells spread throughout the body. They found that a specific membrane proteinase called MT1-MMP plays a crucial role in regulating the transition of cancer cells from floating to sticking phases.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 26, 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.

A democratic façade

Dr Anja Osei's project aims to evaluate parliamentary debates and surveys among Members of Parliament in seven African countries to understand the role of parliaments in autocracies. The research will explore whether legislatures enhance democracy or contribute to authoritarian rule.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateSep 26, 2017

Household chores: Women still do more

A study published in Springer's journal Sex Roles confirms that women consistently perform more housework than men, despite variations in life stages and circumstances. The research highlights the importance of time, money, and gender in shaping domestic labour, with women often bearing the brunt of household tasks.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateSep 26, 2017

Preschool teachers need better training in science

A Michigan State University study found that preschool teachers lack knowledge and confidence in teaching science, contributing to the US poor global performance in this subject. Only high-skilled teachers created quality scientific opportunities for students.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEarly Education and Development·DateSep 26, 2017

Genetic testing helps set safe dose of common blood thinner

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that genetic testing can help set safe doses of common blood thinner warfarin. The study showed that patients who received warfarin dosing guided by their genetic makeup had a 27% reduction in adverse events, including bleeding and blood clots.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateSep 26, 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.

Novel route to polyamide 6: Catalytic oxidation of cyclohexane with ferrocene in ionic liquid medium

Researchers have developed a novel route to produce polyamide 6 by catalytically oxidizing cyclohexane with ferrocene in an ionic liquid medium. The process is highly selective and efficient, achieving over 98% selectivity and high turnover frequencies. This method has the potential to replace traditional industrial production processes.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalLetters in Organic Chemistry·DateSep 26, 2017

Nerves control the body's bacterial community

Researchers from Kiel University discovered that small molecules secreted by nerve cells influence the composition and colonization of specific types of beneficial bacteria in Hydra. The study found that these neuropeptides have antibacterial activity, which affects the balance of the microbiome.

SourceKiel University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2017