Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive July 2018 - Page 2


Page 2 of 38

China could face deadly heat waves due to climate change

A new study shows that China's North China Plain, a region with intensive irrigation, is expected to experience deadly heat waves repeatedly, with the risk being significantly increased due to higher humidity. The region faces the greatest risks to human life from rising temperatures, surpassing other global hotspots.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 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.

Survey of Sexual Medicine Society members reveals only half ask for patients' sexual orientation

A survey of Sexual Medicine Society members found that only half routinely ask patients about their sexual orientation, with 40% of those who don't believe it's relevant to good patient care. The study highlights the need for more professional and patient education to address the LGBT community's unique health needs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateJul 31, 2018

Juvenile justice practices in Europe can inform practices in the United States

Research from Germany, Netherlands, and Croatia highlights the importance of adopting special laws and procedures for youth aged 18-25 in the US. These countries apply juvenile sanctions and facilities, divert more juveniles, and rely on educational approaches to address delinquent behavior. By considering these European strategies, US...

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJustice Evaluation Journal·DateJul 31, 2018

River complexity maintains regional population stability

A study by Hokkaido University researchers found that branching complexity of rivers, rather than ecosystem size, contributes to regional population stability in nature. This challenges current theories and highlights the importance of environmental diversity in maintaining stable populations.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 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.

Fruit flies farm their own probiotics

Researchers discovered that fruit flies have a diverse and stable gut microbiota, with bacteria able to colonize the fly's intestine. This discovery sheds light on how fruit flies 'farm' bacteria, similar to humans using yeast or bacteria in food production.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 31, 2018

Differences in social status and politics encourage paranoid thinking

A new UCL study found that people with higher social status or opposing political beliefs are more likely to assume their partner's decision is motivated by wanting to cause them harm. The study also suggests that paranoia fuels social exclusion and disadvantage, fueling severe mental health problems

SourceUniversity College London·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJul 31, 2018

EV charging in cold temperatures could pose challenges for drivers

New research from Idaho National Laboratory found that cold temperatures significantly impact EV charging efficiency, leading to longer charging times. The study analyzed data from a fleet of electric vehicles in New York City, revealing a decrease in battery state of charge with lower temperatures.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Policy·DateJul 31, 2018
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.

Dental plaque is no match for catalytic nanoparticles

Researchers used FDA-approved nanoparticles to disrupt biofilms and prevent tooth decay in both human-plaque-like biofilm and animal models. The treatment showed strong evidence of its effectiveness in preventing mineral destruction of the tooth's surface and blocking cavity formation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2018

Distracted pedestrians walk slower and are less steady on their feet: UBC study

A UBC study analyzed pedestrian behavior at a busy intersection in Kamloops, B.C., finding that over a third of pedestrians were distracted by their cellphones. Distracted pedestrians had slower walking speeds, more unstable gait patterns, and took longer to cross the road, increasing the risk of conflicts with vehicles.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateJul 31, 2018

Recreational fisheries pose threat to skittish sea turtles

Researchers found that recreational scallop harvesting disrupts native sea turtle behavior, causing them to change their distribution and habitat use. The study suggests that reducing boat density and implementing measures to avoid turtle collisions could minimize ecological damage.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalOryx·DateJul 31, 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.

Study: UVA heart failure program improves survival, reduces costs

A new study found that UVA's Hospital-to-Home program significantly improves survival and other outcomes for heart failure patients while saving money. The program slashed mortality rates by 41% and reduced hospital readmissions by 24% compared to non-participants.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateJul 31, 2018

New model reveals rips in Earth's mantle layer below southern Tibet

A new model provides the clearest picture yet of the geology below the Tibetan Plateau, revealing tears in the Indian upper mantle layer. The research suggests that these tears are responsible for earthquakes in the region, shedding light on the complex geological processes at play.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 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 king penguin colony has shrunk nearly 90 percent

The largest king penguin colony on Île aux Cochons has plummeted in size by nearly 90%, with researchers attributing the decline to climate change and vegetation encroachment. Satellite images reveal that the colony's population began declining in the late 1990s, coinciding with a major climatic event related to El Niño.

SourceCNRS·JournalAntarctic Science·DateJul 30, 2018

What keeps the brain awake

A subset of dopaminergic neurons are inhibited during the day by light-responsive neuropeptide Pigment Dispersing Factor (PDF) and its receptor (PDFR), promoting wakefulness. High daytime levels of PDF increase daytime sleep, while reducing PDFR expression decreases daytime sleep.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 30, 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.

Individual silver nanoparticles observed in real time

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have created a new technique to study the chemical reactions of individual silver nanoparticles in real-time. They found that under certain conditions, these particles transform into poorly soluble silver chloride, which can be toxic for many organisms.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

Research solves a 160-year-old mystery about the origin of skeletons

Researchers have solved a 160-year-old mystery about the origin of vertebrates' skeletons by studying ancient fossils. They found that heterostracan skeletons were made from a unique tissue called aspidin, which is later revealed to be bone-like in structure.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 30, 2018

Advancing the search for antibodies to treat Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have highlighted the importance of testing and targeting different forms of Aβ protein, which can take various shapes including monomers and twisted tangles. Two new studies found that certain forms of Aβ are more toxic than others, and developed a screening test to identify potential therapeutics.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 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.

Harry Noller to receive 2019 BPS Ignacio Tinoco Award

Harry Noller receives 2019 BPS Ignacio Tinoco Award for his pioneering studies on the structure, dynamics, and function of the ribosome. He is recognized for promoting an inclusive and collaborative research environment that positively impacts his community.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

Why bariatric surgery wait times have nearly doubled in 10 years

A new study published in Annals of Surgery found that bariatric surgery wait times in the US have increased significantly over the past decade, with eligible patients often facing longer waits. The delay is largely attributed to insurers requiring patients to lose weight before surgery, which can deter some individuals from pursuing th...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateJul 30, 2018

Peste des petits ruminants: a model for use in eradicating the disease

Researchers developed a dynamic model to simulate virus spread and conducted a national serological study to assess transmission levels and vaccine coverage required. The results suggest that certain pastoral production systems act as virus reservoirs, emphasizing the need for adapted vaccination strategies in high-risk populations.

SourceCirad·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

Pungent-tasting substance in ginger reduces bad breath

A study found that ginger's 6-gingerol increases the enzyme sulfhydryl oxidase 1 in saliva, breaking down malodorous sulfur-containing compounds and reducing bad breath. Citric acid, on the other hand, makes people less sensitive to salt by increasing sodium ion content in saliva.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2018

Evolution of acid-sensing ion channels

The study reveals that acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) have a long evolutionary history, dating back over 600 million years. ASICs are now found in various invertebrates, including sea urchins, starfish, and tunicates.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 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.

Study suggests journalists must take care in reporting on suicide

A large study examining media reporting of suicide found significant associations between reporting details and suicide deaths, highlighting the need for responsible reporting. The study suggests that including crisis resources among recommendations can have a positive impact on vulnerable individuals.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 30, 2018

Scientists discover a dynamic cellular defense against breast cancer invasion

Researchers have found that the cell layer surrounding breast milk ducts acts as an active defense mechanism to prevent cancer cells from spreading, grabbing stray cells and pulling them back in up to 92% of the time. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the myoepithelial layer's role in cancer invasion.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 30, 2018

New approach to terpene syntheses

Chemists at the University of Basel have developed a novel synthesis method for terpenes that uses molecular capsules to mimic nature. The method significantly reduces the number of steps and improves yield in the synthesis process.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJul 30, 2018

Brain game doesn't offer brain gain

Researchers debunk claims that brain training games improve working memory and cognitive skills, finding no transfer between trained and untrained tasks. The study's findings support previous research showing that getting good at one game does not enhance IQ or working memory.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateJul 30, 2018

Sequencing a malaria mosquito's motherline

Researchers have sequenced the first complete mitochondrial genome of Anopheles funestus, a major malaria vector in sub-Saharan Africa. The study reveals significant genetic diversity and ancient lineage differences that could inform new strategies to prevent malaria transmission.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 2018
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.

Elizabeth Rhoades to receive 2019 BPS Michael and Kate Barany Award

Elizabeth Rhoades, Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, has been awarded the 2019 Michael and Kate Bárány Award for her outstanding work on structure-function relations in disordered systems. The award recognizes her innovative use of single-molecule tools to gain insights into conformational landscapes.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

NASA sees Tropical Depression Jongdari stretched out

Tropical Depression Jongdari has been stretched out by wind shear, according to NASA's Aqua satellite image captured on July 30. The storm is expected to re-strengthen into a tropical storm and make landfall near Shanghai on August 2.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 30, 2018
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.

Scientists took another step towards creating an HIV vaccine

A research group led by Professor Andrei Kozlov has identified a key genetic bottleneck effect that could help design an HIV vaccine. By analyzing blood samples from injecting drug users with early stages of HIV infection, scientists discovered that all viruses share a common ancestor.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJul 30, 2018

How time affects learning

A human study found that short training sessions spaced out over weeks improved retention of arbitrary associations, unlike a single 20-minute session. Neuroimaging data showed increased brain engagement in learning-related regions.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 30, 2018

Injectable trace minerals improve oxidative stress after aflatoxin challenge in dairy cows

A new study found that injectable trace minerals alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress in lactating Holstein cows exposed to aflatoxin. The researchers discovered that the minerals increased liver concentrations of selenium and iron and boosted serum glutathione peroxidase activity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJul 30, 2018
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.

Plate tectonics not needed to sustain life

A computer model of a planet's lifecycle reveals stagnant lid planets can sustain liquid water and potentially life for billions of years. The presence and amount of heat-producing elements are key indicators of habitability, according to Penn State researchers.

SourcePenn State·JournalAstrobiology·DateJul 30, 2018

Memory-processing unit could bring memristors to the masses

Researchers have developed a memory-processing unit using memristors, which can perform numerical calculations in parallel, reducing the need for manual multiplication and summation. This innovation has potential applications in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and simulations for weather forecasting.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 2018

'Smart' machine components alert users to damage and wear

Researchers at UConn and UTRC developed 'smart' machine components that alert users to damage and wear using advanced additive manufacturing technology. The components use semisolid metal ink to create conductive silver filament lines that act as wear sensors, detecting damage in real-time.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateJul 30, 2018

UH researchers report new understanding of deep earthquakes

Researchers from the University of Houston have reported a new understanding of deep earthquakes, finding they are hosted in anisotropic rocks. This discovery explains why deep earthquakes radiate seismic energy differently than shallow ones, offering insights into the causes of these events.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 30, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Better way found to determine the integrity of metals

A new AI model developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo can accurately detect atomic structures in metals, leading to greater confidence in determining their integrity. The system uses deep learning and generates images of defects to produce a highly effective algorithm for identifying various types of crystal structures.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2018

Study shows how Oropouche virus replicates in human cells

Researchers describe how Oropouche virus replicates in human cells by hijacking the Golgi complex, a process that could lead to novel targets for preventing infection. The study provides new insights into the replication mechanisms of emerging viruses.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 30, 2018

Lasers write better anodes

Researchers at KAUST have developed a laser-based process to create three-dimensional hard carbon anodes with improved conductivity and capacity for sodium-ion batteries. This breakthrough enables the mass production of high-performance anodes, paving the way for widespread adoption of sodium-ion batteries in energy storage applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJul 30, 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.

MSU-based physicists studied complex magnetism in a rare earth compound

Physicists applied high pressure to create polycrystal samples of dysprosium germanide, revealing a charge-density wave phenomenon. The wave influences crystal lattice distortions and magnetic ordering, leading to an anti-ferromagnetic order at lower temperatures.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateJul 30, 2018

How do young people feel about guns, gun regulation in US?

A study of youth opinions on guns and regulation found that most young people support stricter gun control laws to prevent mass shootings. The majority of survey respondents believed that these laws could help reduce the frequency and severity of such incidents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 30, 2018