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Science News for November 30, 2018


A new way to see stress -- using supercomputers

Researchers used supercomputer simulations to measure atomic-scale stress tensor of materials with dislocations and phase boundaries. They developed a new approach to calculate stress at the atomic level, addressing limitations of classical continuum mechanics.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateNov 30, 2018

How microscopic machines can fail in the blink of an eye

Researchers at NIST made measurements of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) a hundred times faster than before, resolving fine details of transient motions. This breakthrough allows for quicker repetitive testing and assessment of durability in miniature mechanical systems.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Microelectromechanical Systems·DateNov 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.

Focus on resistance to HIV offers insight into how to fight the virus

Canadian researchers found that genetic mutations affecting the HIV-1 capsid make it possible for TRIM5α to trigger an antiviral state in elite controllers, a subset of patients with strong immune systems. This mechanism could be used to develop immunity strategies against HIV.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 30, 2018

UA scientist identifies cellular gene signatures for heart muscle regeneration

Researchers at the University of Arizona have identified multiple subpopulations of cardiomyocytes expressing specific transcription factors, which could lead to better repair of heart muscle injuries. The study uses a systems-based approach encompassing single-cell transcriptomics, single-cell proteomics and CRISPR gene-editing.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2018

App helps breast cancer survivors improve health after treatment

A new smartphone app designed for breast cancer survivors has been shown to help patients achieve significant weight loss and improvements in physical activity. The app, created at Houston Methodist, allows users to interact with their healthcare team and receive real-time feedback and guidance from a clinical dietitian.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJCO Clinical Cancer Informatics·DateNov 30, 2018
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.

To image leaky atmosphere, NASA rocket team heads north

The VISIONS-2 mission aims to map oxygen outflow from aurora using a unique imaging technique, providing detailed insights into the process. Scientists suspect that oxygen is being energized by auroras, but the exact mechanisms are still unclear, with the day and night sides displaying distinct differences.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 2018

Why patients lie to their doctors

A study found that 60-80% of people surveyed lied about their diet and exercise habits, and failed to disclose medically relevant information. This can lead to inaccurate medical advice and compromised health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 30, 2018

Towards a treatment for gluten intolerance

A new study has identified a specific peptide that directly binds to the ion-channel CFTR, impairing its function and triggering cellular stress and inflammation. This interaction can be inhibited by a potentiator of CFTR, which may offer protection against gluten-induced intestinal symptoms.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 30, 2018

A cancer drug may help treat human papillomavirus infections

Researchers found that vorinostat effectively inhibited HPV DNA amplification and virus production in preclinical experiments. Additionally, the treatment induced programmed cell death in infected cells. The study suggests that HDAC inhibitors could be promising compounds for treating benign HPV infections.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2018

The physics of extracting gas from shale formations

A new study reviews current knowledge on flow processes during shale gas extraction, outlining how pore distribution and geometry affect gas transport. The authors present a model that matches experimental evidence, revealing the impact of rock bottlenecks on gas production.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateNov 30, 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.

Table-top experiment flips current understanding of solutal convection

A new study by University of Texas at Austin researchers reveals that the primary driver of solutal convection in porous media is not density, but mechanical dispersion. The findings contradict decades of scientific consensus and have significant implications for CO2 sequestration and other applications.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 30, 2018

Can a smart app encourage HIV-self testing in Canada?

A new smartphone and tablet application called HIVSmart! has been evaluated among an at-risk population in Montreal, showing that it is feasible and accepted by the community. The study found that 99.3% of participants who self-tested negative received counselling, while 98.8% found the app useful.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of International Medical Research·DateNov 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.

Bigger brains are smarter, but not by much

A large-scale study found a positive correlation between brain volume and cognitive test performance, with larger brains performing slightly better. However, the effect is relatively small, explaining only 2% of variability in test results.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 30, 2018

Light triggers gold in unexpected way

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to control the output of gold nanoparticles using circularly polarized light. By changing the handedness of the light input, they found they could change the intensity of the scattered light by up to 50%, opening up new possibilities for ultrasmall optical components and antennas.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 30, 2018

Study discovers over 6,000 antibiotic resistance genes in the bacteria that inhabit the human gut

A recent study has discovered over 6,000 antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria that inhabit the human gut, revealing a vast and previously unknown diversity of resistant genes. The researchers used a novel method to identify these genes by comparing their three-dimensional structures to proteins produced by gut bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 30, 2018

Searching an artificial bee colony for real-world results

A novel scale-free mechanism guides the search of an artificial bee colony algorithm, improving its exploitation ability and maintaining population diversity. This enables a better balance between exploration and exploitation, leading to enhanced search ability in real-world optimization problems.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalInformation Sciences·DateNov 30, 2018

Falls are more likely when you've had a bad night sleep

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that just one bad night's sleep can lead to a reduced ability to control posture and balance. This could be particularly concerning for older adults, who are already at increased risk of falls. The research used wearable sensors to monitor sleep and balance, and showed that fragmente...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 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.

Study sheds light on alcohol misuse among never-deployed reservists

A new study from the University at Buffalo found that U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard soldiers who experience greater feelings of guilt and other negative emotions about never having been deployed are more likely to misuse alcohol. The study, which examined data from Operation: SAFETY, a longitudinal study of the health and well-b...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateNov 30, 2018

US image abroad: It's the message not the messenger

A Dartmouth study finds that US policy messages have a greater impact on foreign public opinion than the person delivering the message. The research, published in Political Behavior, reveals that Japanese public opinion of the US depends largely on whether a policy message is cooperative or uncooperative.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPolitical Behavior·DateNov 30, 2018

IAU astronomers show exceptional involvement in outreach activities

A recent study of IAU members found that professional astronomers engage with the public more than scientists in any other field, with an average of 18 outreach activities per year. The majority prefer traditional methods like lectures and school talks, while fewer use social media and digital platforms.

SourceInternational Astronomical Union·JournalNature Astronomy·DateNov 30, 2018

Black hole 'donuts' are actually 'fountains'

A team of astronomers used ALMA to observe a supermassive black hole in the Circinus Galaxy, finding that gas expelled from the center interacts with infalling gas to create a turbulent three-dimensional structure. This 'donut' structure is not rigid, but rather a complex collection of highly dynamic gaseous components.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·DateNov 30, 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.

Light pollution may cause insomnia in older adults

A population-based study found significant association between nighttime artificial, outdoor light exposure and increased prevalence of hypnotic prescriptions among older adults. The study suggests that higher levels of artificial light at night may lead to longer periods of hypnotic drug use in this demographic.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateNov 30, 2018

Greenhouse gas 'detergent' recycles itself in atmosphere: NASA study

A NASA study reveals that the hydroxyl radical, a molecule that breaks down methane and other greenhouse gases, recycles itself in the atmosphere through reactions with nitrogen oxides and water vapor. This recycling process maintains a steady global presence of OH radicals, potentially extending methane's lifetime.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 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.

More sensitive MRI diagnostics thanks to innovative 'elastic' contrast media

Researchers have developed an innovative 'elastic' contrast media that enhances MRI diagnostics without increasing contrast medium use. The new method utilizes a self-regulating protein structure that absorbs xenon to improve image quality, allowing for better detection of disease markers in low concentrations.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 30, 2018

Tracing iron in the North Pacific

A study focusing on iron in the North Pacific reveals its role in controlling primary productivity, carbon cycle, and marine ecosystem. The distribution of biologically available iron is influenced by factors like mixing, upwelling, and ocean acidification.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateNov 30, 2018

Free, publicly available health data proves to be research gold mine

A UCalgary research team analyzed publicly accessible health and genomics data to identify a gene signature that can help determine which cancer patients will benefit from immunotherapy. This discovery has the potential to improve treatment outcomes for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2018

Many diseases increase the risks of hip fracture surgery

A Finnish study of 68,800 patients found that hip fracture surgery is associated with a significant risk of surgical complications. Patients with osteoarthritis, Parkinson's disease, and rheumatic diseases are particularly at risk, with 4.6% experiencing complications within three months of surgery.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalInjury·DateNov 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.

Virtual reality could serve as powerful environmental education tool

Researchers found that virtual reality experiences increased scores on questions about ocean acidification causes and mechanisms by almost 150 percent. Immersive simulations also sparked a lasting sense of connectedness, as users felt a connection with their bodies during the experience.

SourceStanford University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateNov 30, 2018

Predicting oil spill and wild fire damage -- NSF grant

Virginia Tech professors Shane Ross and Traian Iliescu receive NSF grant to create a computational model-based simulation that quickly predicts contaminant spread. The research aims to improve forecasts of disaster response operations, minimizing environmental damage and costs.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateNov 30, 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.

African-American mothers rate boys higher for ADHD

Researchers found that African-American mothers rated boys as displaying more frequent ADHD symptoms than Caucasian mothers did, regardless of child race. This suggests that racial differences in ADHD diagnosis may be more due to maternal race than child race.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Attention Disorders·DateNov 30, 2018

€10.5 million for kidney disease prevention research

Researchers at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin aim to develop new treatment strategies for chronic and acute kidney diseases through a €10.5 million funded Collaborative Research Center. The project focuses on identifying common pathways of kidney injury and developing tailored treatments.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateNov 30, 2018

'Sudoku' X-Ray uncovers movements within opaque materials

Researchers from the University of Sydney develop a new X-ray method called X-ray rheography, which allows scientists to see flowing grains within opaque materials. The technique uses Sudoku-style puzzle-solving to gather information and has helped uncover unique patterns and waves in granular flows.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2018

Brilliant iron molecule could provide cheaper solar energy

Researchers have created an iron molecule that can function as a photocatalyst to produce fuel and in solar cells to produce electricity. The iron molecule has properties largely as good as those of the best noble metals, making it a potential cheaper alternative for solar energy production.

SourceLund University·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

Study offers new approach to assess sustainability of reef fish

Researchers developed a new length-based risk assessment method to evaluate the sustainability status of popular reef fish species. The study found that only one species had a sustainable risk score, while others had estimated risks of over 95 percent.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateNov 30, 2018

National concussion study to examine gender effects -- NCAA-DOD grant

Researchers at Virginia Tech are leading a national concussion study to examine the impact of gender on injury response, exploring how men's and women's rugby and lacrosse athletes respond differently to head injuries. The $1M grant will support data collection using advanced sensors and imaging techniques.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateNov 30, 2018

Researchers alleviate Schizophrenia symptoms in new mouse models

Researchers have developed two new mouse models to study schizophrenia and found that restoring ErbB4 receptors alleviates symptoms regardless of brain development. The study suggests a therapeutic approach focused on improving brain cell signaling associated with the ErbB4 receptor.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2018

Study shows rising rates of hospitalization in the homeless

A study found that hospitalizations among homeless adults have risen sharply, with 52% hospitalized for mental illness or substance use disorder. The authors suggest that limited access to behavioral health services and aging of the homeless population may contribute to this trend.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateNov 30, 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.

Force Push VR brings Jedi powers to life

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a virtual reality technique called Force Push, enabling users to manipulate objects with subtle hand gestures. The interface responds to the speed and magnitude of hand movements, providing a more physical and intuitive experience than traditional hand controllers.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFrontiers in ICT·DateNov 30, 2018

New research questions fish stocking obligations

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland highlights the need to revise fish stocking obligations in hydropower operations. The research emphasizes that compensating harm to fisheries with fish farming is unsustainable, and natural reproductive cycles must be prioritized.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalWater International·DateNov 30, 2018

Babies kicking in the womb are creating a map of their bodies

A new study suggests that womb kicks may play a role in helping babies develop a sense of their own body. The research, published in Scientific Reports, found that brainwaves produced during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep fire in the corresponding hemisphere when a baby kicks its limbs.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2018

Scientists reveal substantial water loss in global landlocked regions

A new study reveals a widespread decline in water storage in global endorheic basins, resulting in increased local water stress and potential sea level rise. The researchers found a net water loss of approximately 100 billion tons per year, equivalent to five Great Salt Lakes or three Lake Meads.

SourceKansas State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 30, 2018

Altered microbiome after caesarean section impacts baby's immune system

A study found that specific bacteria from the mother's gut stimulate the baby's immune responses during vaginal birth, but this transmission is impacted in children born by caesarean section. This may explain why caesarean-born children are more prone to chronic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 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.

Do poorer neighborhoods experience longer ambulance times?

Researchers analyzed data from 63,600 patients who had cardiac arrest and found that poorer neighborhoods had longer total ambulance times. The study highlights disparities in patient outcomes due to differences in emergency medical services response times.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 30, 2018

Rates of chronic kidney disease, deaths outpace other diseases

The burden of chronic kidney disease is increasing substantially over the past 15 years in all 50 US states, with rates accelerating faster than other noninfectious diseases. The condition is particularly concerning for younger adults, who are experiencing a significant increase in deaths due to kidney disease.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 30, 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.

Switch for the regeneration of nerve cell insulation

A team of researchers has identified a mechanism regulating the regeneration of neural pathway insulation. The discovery highlights the significance of the Vav3 exchange factor in controlling molecular switches that activate and deactivate signaling processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalGlia·DateNov 30, 2018

A bastard seal from the past reveals the potential for human hybrids

Researchers in the University of Helsinki have confirmed a fossilized seal hybrid between grey and ringed seals, with genetic analysis suggesting possible interbreeding in the wild. The discovery provides insights into hybridization between mammalian species, including early humans.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 30, 2018

Experts present new recommendations on 'overlapping' type of leukemia

The new guidelines from the European Hematology Association and European LeukemiaNet provide standardized approaches to clinical management of Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML). The recommendations are based on expert consensus and include steps to improve evidence supporting clinical guidelines.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHemaSphere·DateNov 30, 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.

How you respond to drama depends on if you are a holistic or analytical thinker

Holistic thinkers exhibited similar brain activity when watching a dramatic film, whereas analytical thinkers showed distinct responses. The study suggests that holistic thinkers perceive the world in a more integrated way, processing moral issues and factual connections similarly with each other.

SourceAalto University·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateNov 30, 2018

Study reveals new information about infant brain structure

A recent study from the University of Turku investigated brain structure in newborns, revealing asymmetry in lobar volumes between hemispheres. The findings suggest that environmental factors during pregnancy may have a lasting impact on infant brain development.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalBrain Structure and Function·DateNov 30, 2018

Ambulance response times are worse for low-income people

A nationwide study of cardiac arrests found ambulances took nearly four minutes longer to handle calls from low-income areas than high-income communities. The study highlights the importance of ensuring access to care for vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 30, 2018

Is being a night owl bad for your health?

Research reveals an increased risk of ill health in people with evening preference, including erratic eating patterns and consumption of unhealthy foods. The study also found that glucose levels increase when night owls eat shortly before bed, negatively affecting metabolism.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·DateNov 30, 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.