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Science News Archive August 2018 - Page 32


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

SourceUmea University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

The Umov Effect: Space dust clouds and the mysteries of the universe

Researchers at Far Eastern Federal University are working on a new method to determine the ratio of dust and gas in comets' tails and heads. This will help scientists better understand the Solar System's evolution and formation.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceWiley·JournalNew Phytologist·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 8, 2018

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 ...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateAug 8, 2018

Carbon dioxide levels on flight deck affect airline pilot performance

Researchers found that pilots performed significantly better in flight simulations when CO2 levels were between 700 ppm and 1,500 ppm compared to 2,500 ppm. The negative effects of CO2 on flight performance became more pronounced with longer simulation times.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourcePenn State·DateAug 8, 2018
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 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.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalImmunity·DateAug 8, 2018

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...

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateAug 8, 2018

Earth now and 2.5 billion years ago: New study of air helps understanding both

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals a previously unknown sulfur isotope effect that helps identify sources of air pollution in China. The researchers used sulfur isotopes to analyze coal and air samples, finding a connection between biomass burning and aerosol formation.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateAug 8, 2018

New species of rare ancient 'worm' discovered in fossil hotspot

Scientists have discovered a new species of lobopodian, an ancient relative of modern-day velvet worms, in 430 million-year-old Silurian rocks. The creature was fully three-dimensionally preserved and reconstructed using digital technology.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

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.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEcology·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

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.

SourceKobe University·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateAug 8, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Researchers link residential characteristics with productivity one year after brain injury

A study found that foreign-born Hispanics living in areas with many foreign language speakers were 2.8 times more likely to engage in productive activities like employment and volunteer work one year after TBI. The researchers emphasize the importance of tailoring interventions to individual needs, considering neighborhood factors.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJournal of Strategic Marketing·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

Drug identified that could reverse pulmonary arterial hypertension

Researchers have made a major breakthrough in developing a new treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension, identifying a drug that inhibits HIF-2α and reverses established PAH, suppression of vascular remodeling and right heart failure, and increased survival.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

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.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateAug 8, 2018