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Science News Archive August 2018


Page 32 of 41

Good news for fishermen: Browning impacts fish less than expected

A new study by Umea University researchers found that browning in lakes has a limited impact on fish populations, affecting only lakes with average depths of 2-3.5 meters. This suggests that the expected decline in fish populations due to browning is less severe than previously thought

Eye conditions provide new lens screening for Alzheimer's disease

A significant link was discovered between age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease. Patients with these eye conditions were at a 40-50% greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to similar individuals without these conditions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Inducing labor at 39 weeks reduces likelihood of C-sections

A multicenter study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that inducing labor in healthy first-time mothers at 39 weeks reduced cesarean sections compared to waiting for labor naturally. Infants born to induced mothers did not experience more stillbirths or newborn deaths.

Taming defects in nanoporous materials to put them to a good use

A team of researchers led by Dr Marco Taddei at Swansea University's ESRI has found a way to utilize defects in metal-organic frameworks to capture CO2. The team investigated the role of defects in post-synthetic exchange, a process that allows MOFs to be modified through exchange of components of their structure.

NASA sees Debby transitioned into a tropical storm

NASA's Aqua satellite captured an infrared image of Debby on Aug. 8, revealing three areas of strongest thunderstorms and cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm has transitioned from a subtropical to a tropical cyclone, with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph.

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.

Designer polymers on demand

Researchers create designer polymers with precise properties by controlling the order and number of subunits. They achieve this through a selective approach, allowing for on-demand control over sequence, structure, and architecture.

Largest study yet shows type of underwear is linked to men's semen quality

A new study published in Human Reproduction journal found that men who wear boxer shorts have higher sperm concentrations than those who wear tighter fitting underwear. The researchers also discovered a link between the type of underwear and lower levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates sperm production.

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.

NTU and Harvard scientists discover fat-blocking effect of nanofibers

Researchers from NTU and Harvard found that adding nano-sized cellulose fibers to food reduced fat absorption by up to half in laboratory and animal experiments. The discovery could aid in the global battle against obesity by reducing fat absorption, a strategy reinforced by existing knowledge on high-fibre diets.

Hijacking hormones for plant growth

Researchers have designed synthetic compounds similar to auxin, a hormone controlling plant growth, development and behavior. These compounds could be used for agricultural purposes, such as manipulating fruit ripening or preventing transgene spread.

This small molecule could hold the key to promising HIV treatments

A study published in Nature reveals that IP6 plays crucial roles in the immature and mature development of the HIV-1 virus. This discovery opens the door to possible new therapies by identifying compounds similar to IP6 that could block its action, preventing the virus from maturing.

Two new UTA School of Social Work professors win international award

Researchers have developed an innovative app, SageServe, to connect older adults with online-based volunteer opportunities, reducing social isolation. The app aims to enhance health and well-being by strengthening existing social roles and developing new ones, catering to those with physical disabilities or cognitive impairments.

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.

New discovery sheds light on proteins critical in mood and behavior disorders

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have found evidence of how certain transport proteins are working at the molecular level, potentially leading to improved treatments for psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, and OCD. The study's findings suggest that a universal feature of these transport proteins may ...

Learning to ask older adults better questions about their memory

A study by Penn State researchers identified 13 types of problems with screening questions for Alzheimer's disease, including vagueness and emotional triggers. The findings suggest that clinicians can improve their understanding of patients' unique experiences by asking better questions.

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.

Harmful bacteria thrived in post-Hurricane Harvey floodwaters

Researchers found elevated E. coli levels in Houston's major bayous immediately after Harvey, decreasing over two months. Fecal bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes were highest in homes with stagnant floodwater inside. Residents should exercise caution when handling post-Harvey floodwaters.

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.

NSF award to shine more light on proteins

A $318,696 NSF award will support the development of a novel biosensing nanotechnology to visualize trace biomarker proteins under a microscope. This technology has the potential to greatly advance protein sensing, enabling accurate diagnoses based on biopsies and improving basic biomedical research.

New antibody analysis accelerates rational vaccine design

Scientists have developed a faster way to analyze the outcome of experimental vaccines against HIV and other pathogens. The new system lets researchers quickly assess the full spectrum of antibodies produced in an individual's response to a pathogen or vaccine.

Harrington Discovery Institute announces new scholars

The Harrington Discovery Institute has announced three new scholars in collaboration with FFB and ADDF, selected through a competitive review process for their research on therapies for retinal degenerative diseases and Alzheimer's disease. The institute provides financial support and drug development assistance to accelerate these pro...

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.

Induced labor at 39 weeks reduces cesarean births

A large national study finds that inducing labor at 39 weeks reduces cesarean deliveries, maternal and fetal complications. Women who underwent elective induction reported less pain and lower rates of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension.

A love of steel

Steel researcher Peter Felfer receives a 1.5 million euro grant to investigate the damage caused by hydrogen at the atomic level. He aims to build an atom probe that can differentiate between hydrogen in the material and environment.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Military sexual assault linked to PTSD and depression in LGB veterans

A study found that LGB veterans were more likely to have experienced military sexual assault, which was directly linked to the presence of PTSD and depression. The research highlights the need for better prevention, training, and interventions to support LGB veterans' mental health.

Tying down electrons with nanoribbons

Researchers have discovered that nanoribbons can trap individual localized electrons, potentially enabling new quantum materials with unique electronic and magnetic properties. The discovery was made by combining theoretical predictions with experimental synthesis, using topological insulators as a starting point.

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.

Study illuminates genes behind beautiful 'glow' of Bermuda fireworms

Researchers at the American Museum of Natural History have identified a unique enzyme responsible for the bioluminescence in Bermuda fireworms, which powers their dramatic mating display. The study also examines genes related to reproductive timing and changes in the animals' bodies before swarming events.

For the first time, scientists are putting extinct mammals on the map

Researchers created a comprehensive family tree and atlas of mammals, connecting nearly 6,000 living and recently extinct species. The database includes human-induced regional range losses and provides new baselines for restoration, changing scientists' beliefs about what is 'natural' or not.

Mom still matters, UCLA psychologists report

A new UCLA psychology study found that young adults are more likely to choose their parents over their closest friends when faced with a decision. The study involved 174 participants aged 18-30 and showed that the bias toward parents occurred regardless of age or gender.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Balloon-borne telescope looks for cosmic gamma rays

The GRAINE collaboration launched a balloon-borne nuclear emulsion telescope to observe high-energy cosmic gamma rays. The experiment successfully completed a record-long flight of 17 hours and achieved high-resolution observations, marking a significant milestone in the field of cosmic gamma-ray research.

NASA sees wind shear affecting Tropical Storm Yagi

Tropical Storm Yagi experienced strong vertical wind shear, which led to cloud top temperatures of -80°F (Celsius) and the potential for heavy rain. The storm is moving northeast at 35 knots (40 mph), expected to briefly intensify before weakening.

My host is my castle

Researchers from Harvard University review the tripartite system between bats, bat flies, and Laboulbeniales fungi, highlighting the need for further study on this understudied phenomenon. The team aims to advance our understanding of the biology, host associations, and phylogenetic relationships of these organisms.

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.

Best of both worlds: Combining two skeleton-building chemical reactions

Scripps Research scientists have developed a powerful new strategy for synthesizing molecular skeletons of chemicals used in drugs and other important products. The method combines two chemical reactions, C-C cross coupling and cycloaddition, providing unprecedented flexibility and control over chemical synthesis.

London calling! Travelers seek 'trust' in holiday destinations

A study by Queensland University of Technology researchers found that tourists trust destinations like London based on its vibrancy, contemporary, competence, sophistication and sincerity. The results showed that when a destination is perceived as competent, it becomes more desirable for tourists.

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.

Stanford scientists tie specific brain circuit to sociability in mice

Researchers found that releasing serotonin in a specific part of the brain enhanced social behavior in mice, providing insights into autism spectrum disorder and potentially leading to new treatments. The study suggests that targeting this brain circuit could ameliorate social deficits in individuals with these disorders.

Matchmaking for sweet potato? It's complicated

Researchers found that using legume cover crops reduces the need for nitrogen fertilizer by up to 35% compared to cereal cover crops or no cover crop at all. This simple technique can help farmers maximize sweet potato yields while reducing costs and environmental impact.