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Science News Archive September 2018


Page 1 of 37

ZSL names world's largest ever bird -- Vorombe titan

Researchers at ZSL's Institute of Zoology have reclassified the world's largest bird as a distinct species, Vorombe titan. The giant elephant birds, thought to be extinct for over 1000 years, had unexpected diversity across three genera and four distinct species.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateSep 25, 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.

Eye discovery to pave way for more successful corneal transplants

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a characteristic of the Descemet membrane that can cause difficulties for surgeons performing corneal transplants. The study found that elastin, an elastic-like fiber, governs the direction of the membrane's roll and may be responsible for its unidirectional behavior.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology·DateSep 30, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Unveiling the mechanism protecting replicated DNA from degradation

The study reveals that the WD40 repeats in AND-1 prevent nascent DNA cleavage by a nuclease, allowing for successful cell division. The discovery highlights the crucial function of AND-1 in protecting replicated DNA from degradation during replication and cell proliferation.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

China has seen remarkable progress in diabetes research over the past two decades

A recent study published in SCIENCE CHINA Life Sciences reveals significant advancements in diabetes research in China since 1995, with a substantial increase in publication numbers and citation metrics. The study highlights the need to address the growing diabetes epidemic, suggesting opportunities for new drug development, high-quali...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateSep 29, 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.

Bacterial protein mimics DNA to sabotage cells' defenses

Salmonella bacteria produce proteins that mimic DNA and target specific immune response genes, leaving others untouched. This precise mechanism allows the bacteria to fine-tune the host's immune system.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 28, 2018

NSO molding the future of solar physics research thanks to new NSF funding

The National Solar Observatory (NSO) has received a supplemental grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to enhance its scientific output and foster collaboration in the field of solar physics. The new funding will support the development of advanced data products, engage graduate students, and nurture international expertise.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateSep 28, 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.

Scientists discover genetic basis for how harmful algae blooms become toxic

Researchers identified a cluster of genes responsible for producing the neurotoxin domoic acid in microscopic plants. The knowledge will allow scientists to track the development of bloom toxicity at the genetic level and predict toxin production before it occurs, helping to mitigate harm from algae blooms.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2018

Cancer hijacks the microbiome to glut itself on glucose

Leukemia undercuts normal cells' ability to consume glucose, leading to a diabetic-like condition that favors cancer growth. Researchers have identified key strategies, including manipulating insulin production and gut bacteria, which can be targeted with low-tech therapies like serotonin supplementation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 28, 2018

Model System Researchers identify factors linked to mortality after traumatic brain injury

Researchers analyzed data from the TBI Model System National Data and Statistical Center to identify physical, cognitive, and psychosocial characteristics associated with mortality in chronic TBI survivors. Independence in mobility and community participation were found to be important factors for long-term survival in this population.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateSep 28, 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.

Minority medical residents face burden of bias during training

A study by Yale physicians found that minority residents experience daily bias and microaggressions, as well as being asked to serve as 'ambassadors' for diversity. The researchers emphasize the need for proactive efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in residency programs.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 28, 2018

Medicaid expansions linked to slower rises in overdose deaths

A new study suggests that Medicaid expansions may have been protective against the rise in drug overdose deaths, with nearly 20% lower mortality rates in expansion states compared to non-expansion states.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 28, 2018

Quantum mechanics work lets oil industry know promise of recovery experiments

Scientists at Vanderbilt University have developed a method to predict the outcomes of various additive combinations used to extract more oil from wells. By using quantum mechanical simulations and experimentation, they found that calcium, magnesium, and sulfates can enhance oil recovery by modifying the surface charge on calcite.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateSep 28, 2018

Researchers challenge our assumptions on the effects of planetary rotation

Scientists at Naval Postgraduate School discovered Coriolis effect influences even small ocean disturbances with high Rossby numbers, challenging fundamental fluid dynamics theories. The study found that planetary rotation determines the evolution of eddies in wakes as small as 10 meters.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 28, 2018

How some algae may survive climate change

A Rutgers-led study reveals how green algae adapted to tolerate hostile conditions by stealing genes from bacteria, providing clues for engineering more resilient algae. The findings suggest that these hardy species can survive climate change and offer potential solutions for biofuel production and other applications.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 28, 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.

Ensuring cohesion in a society that is drifting apart

The University of Konstanz will lead a new research initiative to explore social cohesion from a cultural studies perspective. Researchers will investigate the role of socio-economic factors, mass media, and collective feelings in promoting social cohesion.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateSep 28, 2018

Kidney disease biomarker may also be a marker for COPD

Researchers found that albuminuria, a marker of kidney damage, is associated with increased risk of developing moderate-to-severe COPD and declining lung function. The study suggests that endothelial damage in the lungs may play a key role in COPD development and progression.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 28, 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.

Improved In vivo imaging of atherosclerotic plaque development

A team at University of Tsukuba developed a tool to image atherosclerotic plaque development in mice, allowing for the evaluation of drugs and analysis of individual patient risk. The method involves expressing fluorescent protein in immune cells that congregate in plaque, enabling accurate measurement of plaque quantity and progression.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 28, 2018

Researchers find value in unusual type of plant material

Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a novel type of lignin, C-lignin, that can be refined into various bioproducts with high yields and minimal processing. This breakthrough has the potential to transform agricultural markets by utilizing a previously underutilized plant biomass.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 28, 2018

Hidden health problems can appear up to two years after elective hip surgeries

Patients undergoing elective hip surgery may experience new health issues such as mental health disorders, chronic pain, and cardiovascular ailments up to two years after the procedure. The study found that these hidden complications can have a significant impact on patients' quality of life.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateSep 28, 2018

Building a flu factory from host cell components

A team of researchers investigated influenza A's impact on lung-derived cell lines, discovering that the virus alters protein levels and locations. The study found that many proteins are relocalized, with viral and ribosomal proteins increasing in autophagosomes.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateSep 28, 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.

Teens who've tried marijuana have used it in more than one form

A study of 10th-graders in Los Angeles finds that most teens who have tried marijuana use it in multiple forms, including smokable, edible, and vaporized products. The research raises concerns about the health implications of cannabis use among adolescents amid a growing market with sleek packaging and health benefits claims.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 28, 2018

Perovskite solar cells leap toward commercialization

Scientists at OIST have developed a method to fabricate low-cost high-efficiency perovskite solar cells, boasting an efficiency comparable to crystalline silicon cells. The technique uses a gas-solid reaction-based method to produce uniform panels with improved stability and production costs.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 28, 2018

Now is the time to answer questions about climate engineering disease impacts

Researchers Colin Carlson and Christopher Trisos call for caution on climate engineering, citing the need for quantitative evidence and solid data. They hope to shed light on potential health consequences over the next two years, as climate change and geoengineering become increasingly intertwined.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 28, 2018

Finding new combination therapies for neuroblastoma

A phase 2 clinical trial found that combining a novel compound called alisertib with chemotherapy had anti-tumor activity in children with high-risk, relapsed neuroblastoma. The treatment resulted in an objective response rate of 21% and one-year progression-free survival of 34%.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 28, 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.

NASA looks at major Hurricane Rosa's water vapor concentration

Hurricane Rosa's high water vapor content and cold cloud top temperatures indicate its potential for heavy rainfall, with the eye featuring a ring of storms around a 20 nautical mile-wide area. The storm is currently a Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 28, 2018

NASA identifies wind shear tearing apart Tropical Cyclone Liua

Tropical Cyclone Liua was severely impacted by strong westerly to northwesterly vertical wind shear, causing the storm to lose its structure. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center issued the final bulletin on Liua, which was centered near 12.0 degrees south latitude and 161.1 degrees east longitude.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 28, 2018

The cart before the horse: A new model of cause and effect

Scientists introduce a new model of causality that moves away from a temporally linear relationship between cause and effect. This new approach defines causality independently from time and allows for mutual or two-way causation.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 28, 2018

New insights into the structure of a killer protein

Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum have gained new insights into the structure of Bax, a protein responsible for programmed cell death. The team's work, published in Cell Death and Differentiation, sheds light on the dynamics of this protein.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateSep 28, 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.

NASA looks at Tropical Storm Kirk's Caribbean rainfall

Tropical Storm Kirk brought intense rain to the Leeward Islands on September 28, with the heaviest downpours recorded near its center. The Global Precipitation Measurement mission detected hourly rainfall rates of up to 4 inches per hour, posing a risk of life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 28, 2018

New, highly stable catalyst may help turn water into fuel

Researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed a new, porous electrocatalyst that can split water molecules at a higher rate than current industry standards. The material, made from a mixture of metal compounds and perchloric acid, has shown improved stability in acidic environments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 28, 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.

Discovery paves way for improved ovarian cancer care

Researchers identified subtle epigenetic differences that explain why some ovarian cancer patients respond to PARPi drugs, while others do not. The study adds to a vital checklist for matching patients with the right therapy for their cancer.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 28, 2018

Sensitive babies become altruistic toddlers

A study found that infants' responsiveness to fearful faces at 7 months predicts altruistic behavior in toddlerhood. Additionally, brain responses in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex are linked to this early precursor of prosocial behavior.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 28, 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.