Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 23, 2019


Can researchers engage safely with the food industry?

A study by researchers at the University of Queensland and University of Cambridge found high levels of agreement among scientists and research stakeholders on principles to prevent conflicts of interest with the food industry. However, there is ongoing debate about what constitutes acceptable interactions and funding arrangements.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 23, 2019

The fat of the land: Estimating the ecological costs of overeating

New research suggests that global food waste due to overeating has a significant impact on the environment. The study estimates that excess bodyweight corresponds to roughly 140 billion tonnes of food waste globally, with growing meat consumption leading to higher land and water usage.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateAug 23, 2019

New study: Migrating mule deer don't need directions

Researchers found that memory plays a crucial role in guiding mule deer migrations, with past migration routes and seasonal ranges having a significant influence on their choice of path. This cognitive map helps animals navigate tens to hundreds of miles between seasonal ranges.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

Addressing causes of mortality in Zambia

A new study analyzed Zambia's cause of death patterns and found that eliminating HIV/AIDS in the adult age group could gain notable years of life expectancy. The study also revealed a correlation between level of education and HIV/AIDS prevalence, as well as regional variations in cause of death patterns.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalTropical Medicine & International Health·DateAug 23, 2019

Researchers use machine learning to teach robots how to trek through unknown terrains

A team of Australian researchers has designed a reliable strategy for testing physical abilities of humanoid robots using machine learning methods and algorithms. The findings have promising implications in the broad use of humanoid robots in fields such as healthcare, education, disaster response, and entertainment.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateAug 23, 2019

Heart attack patients with mild cognitive impairment get fewer treatments

A new study found that people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who have a heart attack are less likely to receive evidence-based treatment. Despite this, researchers emphasize that MCI does not necessarily mean reduced benefit from treatment and that patients should still receive care when indicated.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

New approaches to heal injured nerves

A team from Ruhr-University Bochum has deciphered a new mechanism that enables the regeneration of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. By eliminating the inhibiting protein PTEN, researchers can partially restore regenerative capacity in nerve cells, but direct inhibition is not suitable due to cancer risks.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateAug 23, 2019

Can't get thinner than this: synthesis of atomically flat boron sheets

A research team at Tokyo Institute of Technology successfully synthesized atomically flat oxidized borophene sheets through a simple solution-based method. The resulting material exhibits anisotropic conducting behavior, with different conductivity types depending on current flow direction.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 23, 2019

Laser-produced uranium plasma evolves into more complex species

Scientists have mapped the evolution of complex uranium oxide species, creating a detailed picture of their formation and behavior. This research has practical applications in technologies like laser spectroscopy and verifying nuclear treaty compliance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateAug 23, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists have found longevity biomarkers

Researchers discovered a group of genes whose activity was associated with longevity in response to various interventions. The study used mice as a model organism and identified biomarkers that could facilitate the search for new longevity interventions.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 23, 2019

Detraction-free light-matter interaction

Quantum dots have been successfully modified to produce interference-free photons, paving the way for quantum communication. Researchers eliminated interferences by adding an aluminium arsenide layer grown above the quantum dots in the wetting layer.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateAug 23, 2019

Save time using maths: Analytical tool designs corkscrew-shaped nano-antennae

Researchers have developed an analytical tool to design nano-antennae that can amplify electromagnetic fields of desired frequencies or polarizations. The corkscrew-shaped nano-antennae are highly sensitive to light, allowing for novel applications in information technology and sensor technology.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalOptica·DateAug 23, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Novel paradigm in drug development

Researchers identified central UPS regulators as essential for degrader efficacy, and found modulator gene-networks that can inform patient stratification. The study provides new insights into the rational design of small-molecule degraders.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 23, 2019

Exciting new vaccine targets killer disease TB

Researchers have developed a new type of vaccine targeting tuberculosis, providing substantial protection against the deadly disease. The early-stage vaccine was shown to be effective in pre-clinical laboratory settings and demonstrated its ability to stimulate the immune response in the lungs.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 23, 2019

A new method for quantifying crystal semiconductor efficiency

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new method to quantify the efficiency of crystal semiconductors, a crucial step towards creating more efficient light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and solar cells. The method uses photoluminescence spectroscopy to detect the emitted light energy, providing a unique indicator of the crystal's quality.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAPL Materials·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

Children of incarcerated parents have more substance abuse, anxiety

Research from Duke University found that children of incarcerated parents are six times more likely to develop a substance use disorder as adults and nearly twice as likely to have diagnosable anxiety. These individuals also experience significant hurdles transitioning into adulthood.

SourceDuke University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 23, 2019

Do single people suffer more?

Researchers found that men and women exhibited higher pain thresholds and lower sensory pain ratings when their partners were present. The study suggests that partner empathy can buffer affective distress during pain exposure, even without verbal or physical contact.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalScandinavian Journal of Pain·DateAug 23, 2019

Bioprinting complex living tissue in just a few seconds

Researchers develop a high-resolution printing method to create complex tissue shapes in a biocompatible hydrogel containing stem cells. The resulting tissue can be vascularized by adding endothelial cells, enabling the creation of functional bioprinted organs with unprecedented speed and design freedom.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 23, 2019

Scientists use a new method to track pollution from cooking

Scientists at Institute of Atmospheric Physics use a new method to track pollution from cooking by applying a black carbon tracer. COA contributes 15-27% to total organic aerosol in summer and even more than 10% during heating periods, with significant enhancements of coal combustion emissions.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 23, 2019

Simple blood test unmasks concussions absent on CT scans

A new blood test developed by UCSF has shown high accuracy in detecting concussions absent on CT scans, with the potential to prevent unnecessary radiation exposure and improve patient care. The test measures brain protein levels, which are significantly elevated in patients with traumatic brain injuries.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

How memories form and fade

Researchers at Caltech have discovered that strong memories are formed when multiple neurons fire in sync, providing redundancy for long-term retention. This finding has implications for understanding memory loss due to brain damage or aging.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2019

The technology behind Bitcoin may improve the medications of the future

Researchers developed an app called MedBlockChain that uses blockchain technology to prescribe optimal medicine doses for individual patients. The app also detects counterfeit products, providing a safer and more efficient way to manage pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Sciences·DateAug 23, 2019

Grant to develop drought-tolerant poplars for bioenergy

Researchers aim to create genetically modified poplar trees that can thrive in drought-prone environments and produce feedstocks for bioenergy. The project involves using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tools to identify the ideal tree species for these conditions, with the goal of delivering new genotypes by the end of the project.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 23, 2019

Breath! Respiring microbes generate more energy

Researchers have discovered that microorganisms can shift from fermentation to respiration, producing more internal energy and reducing unwanted byproducts. This breakthrough enables the design of new, improved cell factories with enhanced efficiency.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study suggests weight loss regardless of psychiatric medication use

A Canadian study found that individuals taking anti-depressants and/or anti-psychotics can lose weight with a weight management program, regardless of their medication use. The study analyzed data from 17,519 patients and showed significant weight loss in both men and women.

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateAug 23, 2019

Tech time not to blame for teens' mental health problems

A recent study of over 400 teenagers found no significant link between smartphone usage and poor mental health outcomes. In fact, adolescents who sent more text messages reported feeling better, suggesting a potential positive impact of digital technology on their well-being.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

K+ channel study could help develop drugs for life-threatening conditions

TTUHSC researchers engineer mutant channels to capture atomic resolution pictures of ion-bound configurations, providing evidence for the canonical model proposed by Nobel laureate Roderick Mackinnon. This discovery could lead to developing new drugs targeting K+ channels for treating life-threatening conditions.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2019

NIH funds eleven research centers in minority institutions

The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities has funded 11 research centers in minority institutions to foster the next generation of researchers and address health disparities. The centers will focus on diseases disproportionately affecting minority populations, including cancer, cardiometabolic diseases, and HIV/A...

SourceNIH/National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities·DateAug 23, 2019

Who you see matters: Stroke patients benefit more from observing their own hand movements during therapy

Japanese scientists found that observing one's own hand movements in video-assisted therapy enhances brain activity and speeds up rehabilitation for stroke patients. This technique promotes brain plasticity, allowing the brain to rewire and regain movement and senses.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

Big brains or big guts: Choose one

A global study finds that birds with smaller brains thrive in variable environments by using alternative ecological strategies, such as large bodies and high reproductive rates. In contrast, big-brained birds are less adaptable and invest more time in raising fewer offspring.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2019

Researchers advance organ-on-chip technology to advance drug development

The researchers developed a 3D organ-on-chip platform using bioelectrical sensors to measure the electrophysiology of heart cells in three dimensions. This platform enables studying cell communication in multicellular systems, potentially screening drugs on human-like tissue.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 23, 2019

Study models new method to accelerate nanoparticles

The study models a system using light to generate an electromagnetic field, polarizing neutral nanoparticles made of insulating materials. The technique has the potential to provide thrust for tiny spacecraft without an electrical power supply.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAIP Advances·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

Caregivers of people with dementia are losing sleep

Caregivers of people with dementia experience significant sleep loss, estimated at 2.5-3.5 hours per week, affecting both their mental and physical health. Simple interventions such as morning sunlight, regular bedtime routines, and moderate exercise can improve caregivers' sleep quality.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 23, 2019

Chemistry in motion

For the first time, researchers have visualized chemical processes in unprecedented detail using molecular electron microscopy. This breakthrough allows for the observation of discrete stages in chemical reactions, which could aid in the development of methods to synthesize chemicals with greater control and precision.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2019

Your heart's best friend: Dog ownership associated with better cardiovascular health

A recent study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that dog owners had lower cardiovascular disease risk factors and healthier cardiovascular profiles compared to non-pet owners. The study discovered that the benefits of dog ownership on heart health were most pronounced for those who owned a dog, regardless of age, sex, or educ...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateAug 23, 2019
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.

Evolution designed by parasites

Research by Marco Del Giudice reveals parasites manipulate host behavior to increase transmission chances and alter neural functioning. Hosts evolve countermeasures to evade manipulation, but these adaptations may also create new vulnerabilities.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateAug 23, 2019

Elite athletes have poor oral health despite brushing twice daily

A new study by UCL found that nearly half of elite athletes have untreated tooth decay and a third report negative impacts on training and performance. Despite frequent brushing and flossing habits, sports drinks, energy bars, and energy gels are linked to increased risk of oral disease.

SourceUniversity College London·DateAug 23, 2019

Pollution and winter linked with rise in heart attack treatment

Research finds that patients from areas with cleaner air are more sensitive to changes in pollution, while those from more polluted cities can adapt to fluctuations. A higher incidence of PCI procedures was observed in winter and rose along with increasing pollution.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 23, 2019