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Science News for June 8, 2018


Nano-saturn

Scientists synthesize a nanoscale Saturn system consisting of a spherical C60 fullerene as the planet and a flat macrocycle made of six anthracene units as the ring. The structure is confirmed by spectroscopic and X-ray analyses, enabling a new structural motif for researchers.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 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.

A new way to measure energy in microscopic machines

Researchers have devised a new method to measure free energy in microscopic systems, enabling the study of living systems and machine operation. The Relaxation Fluctuation Spectroscopy (ReFlucS) technique uses microscopy to track molecular motion, predicting system behavior without tracking individual atoms.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 8, 2018

Temple researchers reverse cognitive impairments in mice with dementia

Researchers at Temple University Health System have discovered a way to reverse memory deficits and tau pathology in mice with dementia. By administering a drug that blocks leukotriene formation, they were able to improve spatial learning and working memory in treated animals.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateJun 8, 2018

Coral tricks for adapting to ocean acidification

Corals adjust to ocean acidification by altering gene expression through DNA methylation. This adaptation involves increased cell size and calyx development, allowing corals to thrive in changing environments.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 8, 2018

Association of food allergy, other allergies with autism spectrum disorder

A significant positive association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and common allergic conditions, particularly food allergy, was found in a nationally representative sample of US children. Children with ASD were more likely to report having food, respiratory, and skin allergies compared to those without ASD.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 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.

Water users associations approve remote control watering systems

A research group from the University of Córdoba found that remote control watering systems have been successfully implemented in most water users associations in Spain, but issues with maintenance and adaptation remain. The systems have shown to facilitate life in rural areas, but also revealed problems with their use and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalAgricultural Water Management·DateJun 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.

Holes in the head

Researchers compared ancient Peruvian trepanation outcomes to those during the American Civil War and found a significant difference in mortality rates. The study suggests ancient Peruvians may have prevented infection through unknown methods, leading to better survival rates over time.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalWorld Neurosurgery·DateJun 8, 2018

UT Southwestern investigators identify missing link in kidney cancer prognosis

UT Southwestern investigators discovered a missing link in kidney cancer prognosis by analyzing neighboring cells. They found that tumors with an inflamed neighborhood were more likely to be associated with aggressive cancers and worse survival rates. However, these tumors may respond better to immunotherapy treatment.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJun 8, 2018

Thorny life of newborn neurons

Researchers found that frequent nerve signals strengthen dendritic spines in adult-born neurons, allowing them to connect with the existing neural network. This process is crucial for learning and memory formation in the hippocampus.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2018

Carbon dioxide reduces belly fat

A Northwestern University study found that carbon dioxide gas injections eliminate fat around the stomach, but modest changes were not sustained over six months. The technique is considered safe and non-invasive, offering an alternative to existing methods for fat reduction.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateJun 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.

Startup uses artificial intelligence to analyze vehicle driver behavior

The startup's tool identifies behavioral patterns and establishes a driving profile with high accuracy, enabling fleet owners to provide personalized guidance to dangerous drivers. The system also detects anomalies associated with drug use, drowsiness, or cellphone use while driving, allowing for prompt intervention.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateJun 8, 2018

Infrared NASA imagery shows Hurricane Aletta strengthening

Hurricane Aletta strengthened after passing over NASA's Aqua satellite on June 7, with coldest cloud top temperatures reaching -63 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm is expected to intensify to Category 4 status before weakening begins this weekend.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 8, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Unexpected new dynamics for large DNA molecules in liquid suspension

Scientists at UMass Amherst create a many-compartmented gel to trap large DNA molecules, exhibiting a 'topologically frustrated' inability to diffuse. The discovery has implications for gene therapy and tissue therapy, where precise control over macromolecules is crucial.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2018

Visual worlds in mirror and glass

Studies found that humans use efficient cues to discriminate between reflective and transparent materials, estimating material states without needing all information. Researchers developed a model correlating closely with human perception, suggesting simple information processing in the brain.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 8, 2018

Researcher creates 3D printed multimaterial with programmed stiffness

A new method of microscale 3D printing allows switching between materials of different modulus without cross contamination, enabling programmable morphing and morphing capability in various applications such as aircraft wing structures and microrobotics. The technology can create materials with tailored stiffness and toughness.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 8, 2018

Science of racism examined in new set of research articles

Research on racism reveals subtle, structural forms persist in a diverse US, with studies showing prejudice can be reduced through positive interactions between majority and minority groups. The collection highlights the importance of addressing systemic inequalities to combat racism.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJun 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.

Scientists go deep to quantify perovskite properties

Researchers at Rice University and Los Alamos National Laboratory developed a scale to measure exciton binding energy in perovskite quantum wells, enabling the design of efficient optoelectronic devices. This breakthrough could impact solar cells, LEDs, and other technologies.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2018

ORNL launches Summit Supercomputer

Summit will provide unprecedented computing power for research in energy, advanced materials and artificial intelligence, enabling scientific discoveries that were previously impractical or impossible. Summit will be capable of more than three billion mixed precision calculations per second, or 3.3 exaops.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJun 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.

Bees and the thought of naught

Researchers taught bees to recognize 'greater than' and 'less than' inequalities, and they successfully applied this knowledge to understand the concept of zero. This groundbreaking study reveals that even with a limited number of neurons, insects can grasp abstract mathematical concepts.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2018

New hope from the 'seven year switch' in Type 1 diabetes

A study published in Diabetes Care found that the rapid decline in insulin production associated with Type 1 diabetes follows a two-phase pattern: an initial exponential fall and a subsequent stable phase. This discovery suggests that people with Type 1 diabetes may retain some working beta-cells for seven years after diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJun 8, 2018

Study: Populations of widely spread tree species respond differently to climate change

A new study by Portland State University reveals that climate change impacts tree growth rates vary among widely distributed tree species in different regions of Patagonia. The research found that warmer conditions and changes in storm tracks led to altered precipitation patterns, favoring tree growth in some areas over others.

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateJun 8, 2018

A 'super' receptor that helps kill HIV infected cells

Monash researchers have discovered a unique set of 'super' receptors on immune cells capable of killing HIV across genetically diverse populations. These killer CD4+ T cells can recognize HIV fragments in people with different HLA molecules, a feature that may help control the spread of the disease.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience Immunology·DateJun 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.

The cartography of the nucleus

Scientists create three-dimensional maps of DNA in cells to understand genome organization and gene expression. The study reveals that genes cluster together around specific nuclear bodies, influencing gene activity.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateJun 8, 2018

Food allergies connected to children with autism spectrum disorder

A new study from the University of Iowa found that children with ASD are over twice as likely to suffer from a food allergy compared to those without ASD. The study analyzed data from nearly 200,000 children and suggests a possible link between immunological dysfunction and ASD development.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 8, 2018

New system recovers fresh water from power plants

A new MIT system captures water evaporating from cooling towers, reducing water loss and providing clean drinking water for coastal cities. The system's efficiency is improved by using ion beams to charge water droplets, allowing them to be drawn toward a mesh of wires.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 8, 2018

Electrons take one step forward without two steps back

Researchers at UC Riverside successfully used electric dipoles to accelerate electron transfer in one direction while suppressing it in the other. This breakthrough could lead to improved solar cells and energy-conversion devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 8, 2018

Oldest bubonic plague genome decoded

A team of researchers analyzed two 3,800-year-old genomes, identifying the oldest sequenced strain with virulence factors characteristic of bubonic plague. The study suggests a Bronze Age origin for the disease, dating it back around 4,000 years.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 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.

New method helps make orthotopic brain-tumor imaging clearer and faster

Researchers developed a new NIR-II fluorescent molecule for dual fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging, offering high resolution and penetration depth for precise noninvasive brain-tumor diagnosis. The method demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, accurately assessing tumor location and depth in brain tissue.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 8, 2018

Bone apetit: How bacteria eat bone to sustain invasive infection

Staphylococcus aureus uses specific amino acid biosynthesis pathways to obtain essential nutrients from host tissues during invasive infection. The discovery sheds light on how bacterial pathogens survive in bone and may lead to the development of new antimicrobial therapies.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 8, 2018

Study: Are birth mothers satisfied with decisions to place children for adoption?

A Baylor University study found that birth mothers' satisfaction with their decision to place children for adoption is affected by time, age, education, income, and contact with the child. The research revealed that higher education, financial success, and older age led to decreased satisfaction, while current contact with the child an...

SourceBaylor University·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateJun 8, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Ten thousand bursting genes

Researchers developed a new technique called intron seqFISH that allows for the imaging of over 10,000 genes within single cells. This technique provides precise and instantaneous snapshots of single cells, revealing that gene expression oscillates globally across many genes on a surprisingly short timescale.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateJun 8, 2018

Dogs can detect agricultural diseases early

Researchers found that dogs can effectively sniff out infected avocado trees well in advance, providing a potential solution to the devastating impact of laurel wilt disease on the industry. The study's results show that dogs can detect agricultural diseases like laurel wilt with high accuracy, even in harsh weather conditions.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateJun 8, 2018

Research reveals secret to whale shark hotspots

The study found that whale sharks congregate at specific locations with unique characteristics, such as steep slopes and upwelling of plankton and krill. These areas provide ideal conditions for the filter-feeding sharks to search for food in deep water and warm shallows.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 8, 2018

ARS scientists are working to ensure safe waterways in Georgia

ARS researchers found 34 E. coli isolates with resistance to antimicrobial drugs in the Upper Oconee Watershed. The presence of pathogenic strains like ST131 poses a risk of antimicrobial resistance in surface waters, but scientists assure it's not a threat to public health due to proper disinfection methods.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 8, 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.

The burglary microbiome project

Researchers used microbial signatures to identify non-resident burglars in mock crimes, achieving accuracy above 60% and demonstrating potential as forensic evidence. The study collected samples from residents' nostrils, hands, and home surfaces before and after simulated break-ins.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 8, 2018

Gene editing just got easier

Researchers have developed a simpler and faster CRISPR method that allows for off-the-shelf genome engineering, reducing the barrier to entry for this powerful technology. The approach targets universal sequences found in gene knockout collections, enabling rapid single nucleotide editing and generating chromosomal mutant collections.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2018

In desert trials, next-generation water harvester delivers fresh water from air

A University of California, Berkeley team has developed a next-generation water harvester that can extract drinkable water every day/night cycle at very low humidity and at low cost. The harvester uses solar energy to collect water from the air, making it ideal for people living in arid, water-starved areas of the world.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 8, 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.

Scientists find ordered magnetic patterns in disordered magnetic material

Researchers at Berkeley Lab discovered chirality in domain walls of amorphous materials, which could enable faster, smaller data storage. The study used high-resolution microscopy techniques to confirm nanoscale magnetic features, opening possibilities for controlling magnetic domains with temperature and light.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 8, 2018

Virtual brain gives insights into memory deficits in depression

A computational model suggests that older memories are affected in depression, with longer episodes causing more extensive memory deficits. The study's findings imply that major depressive disorder could have far-reaching consequences, including the loss of remote memories that do not recover even after the depression subsides.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 8, 2018

New insight into why Pierce's disease is so deadly to grapevines

Scientists at UC Davis have identified molecular markers that influence the onset of Pierce's disease in grapevines. These markers can help diagnose the disease early and increase plant health, providing a more sustainable alternative to insecticides.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateJun 8, 2018

High food insecurity found in a sample of adults on probation in Rhode Island

A new study found that nearly three-quarters of adults on probation in Rhode Island experience food insecurity, with almost half having very low food security. The prevalence is substantially higher than the statewide average, highlighting a critical need for targeted interventions and policies to mitigate health disparities.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 8, 2018

New way to predict caries progression

Researchers have discovered that an increase in certain substances in oral fluid can indicate caries development. They found a way to prevent the disease by analyzing changes in saliva composition, enabling early detection and treatment.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalThe EPMA Journal·DateJun 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.

Silicon provides means to control quantum bits for faster algorithms

Researchers from Purdue University and the Technological University of Delft have discovered enhanced spin-orbit interaction in silicon, allowing for easier manipulation of qubits using electric fields. This enables the creation of silicon quantum computer chips with millions of qubits, leading to high-speed information processing and ...

SourcePurdue University·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateJun 8, 2018