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Science News for August 9, 2019


UTA Research Institute scientist earns award for emerging leadership in engineering

Rasel Raihan, a research scientist at the UTA Research Institute, has received the Young Professionals Emerging Leadership Award from the Society of Advancement of Materials and Process Engineering. He is recognized for his technical excellence and outstanding service in advancing the field of advanced materials and process engineering.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 9, 2019

Novel dual stem cell therapy improving cardiac regeneration

A new dual stem cell therapy has shown promise in improving cardiac function and vascular regeneration following myocardial infarction. The treatment involves combining two types of stem cells to repair both the muscle cells and vascular systems of the heart, providing a potential alternative to complex heart transplants.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 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.

Nanoparticles' movements reveal whether they can successfully target cancer

Researchers developed a new method to analyze nanoparticles' movements in real-time, finding that targeting nanostars rotate faster and move across larger areas than non-targeting counterparts. This technology holds promise for reducing side effects of cancer treatments by delivering drugs directly to diseased cells.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 9, 2019

Despite temperature shifts, treehoppers manage to mate

Despite temperature fluctuations, treehoppers' mating habits remain intact. Researchers at Saint Louis University found that male treehoppers' songs and female preferences adapt together in response to changing temperatures.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateAug 9, 2019

Scientists can now control thermal profiles at the nanoscale

Researchers designed and tested an experimental system that uses a near-infrared laser to actively heat two gold nanorod antennae to different temperatures, defying thermal diffusion. The team measured temperature differences as high as 20 degrees Celsius by analyzing scattered photons from green light.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 9, 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.

Depression symptoms in Alzheimer's could be signs for cognitive decline

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that depression symptoms in cognitively healthy older individuals, combined with brain amyloid, can lead to changes in memory and thinking over time. The study suggests that depression symptoms could be a target for delaying the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 9, 2019

There are no water molecules between the ions in the selectivity filter of potassium

A team of researchers has successfully demonstrated that potassium ions migrate through the selectivity filter of potassium channels without water molecules in between. Their study, published in Science Advances, utilized solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to provide conclusive evidence under natural conditions.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 9, 2019
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Sleep, snacks and shift work

A new study found that consuming a snack reduces the impact of sleepiness and fatigue on night shift workers, compared to eating a meal or no food at all. The study's lead researcher hopes the findings will inform strategic eating patterns to help thousands of shift workers stay alert and healthy.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutrients·DateAug 9, 2019

Take a break! Brain stimulation improves motor learning

Researchers found that brain stimulation during short breaks improves recall of learned motor sequences, even after several hours of practice has stopped. The study suggests that pauses between practice sessions solidify learning in the brain, and stimulation can enhance this process.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateAug 9, 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.

Microneedling improves appearance of acne scars

Researchers found microneedling improves acne scar appearance by decreasing inflammation and scarring, with increased patient satisfaction when combined with other treatments.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalDermatologic Surgery·DateAug 9, 2019

Making sense of remote sensing data

Researchers introduce RadialPheno, a new tool to visualize phenocam-collected phenology data, providing meaningful insights into plant developmental events. The tool uses radial representation to identify recurrent events and integrates with common statistical methods, making it a valuable resource for phenology experts.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateAug 9, 2019

Turbulence meets a shock

Researchers used Stampede2 to study shock turbulence interactions at high turbulence intensities, exploring amplification factors, shock jumps and turbulent Mach number. The study aims to improve understanding of turbulent flows interacting with shock waves, enabling advancements in supersonic aircraft design and supernova research.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateAug 9, 2019

The mind-muscle connection: For aesthetes, not athletes?

Focusing on movement during weightlifting may improve performance by reducing mechanical inefficiency and increasing automatic control processes. This contradicts the traditional mind-muscle connection theory, which suggests focusing on individual muscles enhances activation and development.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·DateAug 9, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Deciphering the regenerative potential of newborn mammalian hearts

Researchers aim to decipher the mechanisms that govern the regenerative capacity of large neonatal mammalian hearts and manipulate them to remuscularize the heart after muscle death. The study may lead to novel techniques for pediatric and adult heart disease interventions, addressing the fundamental problem of heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateAug 9, 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.

NASA's Aqua Satellite finds a large ragged eye in Typhoon Krosa

Typhoon Krosa has a large eye with coldest cloud top temperatures as cold as -63 degrees Fahrenheit around the center and in large bands south and east of the storm. NASA's Aqua satellite analysis revealed the eye's size, aiding forecasters in predicting its path and potential weakening over the next five days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 9, 2019

Direct toxic action of beta-amyloid identified

Researchers discover beta-amyloid blocks glutamate re-uptake in hyperactive neurons, causing false signals and impairments in signal processing. The soluble form of beta-amyloid dimers are responsible for the toxic effect, providing a new target for early treatment strategies.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2019

The brain inspires a new type of artificial intelligence

A team of scientists at Bar-Ilan University has developed a new type of ultrafast artificial intelligence algorithm based on the slow dynamics of brain function. This breakthrough outperforms traditional machine learning algorithms in various fields.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 2019

Virtual 'universe machine' sheds light on galaxy evolution

A University of Arizona-led team used supercomputer simulations to generate millions of virtual universes, challenging fundamental ideas about galaxy formation and the role of dark matter. The findings suggest galaxies formed stars more efficiently in the early universe than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 9, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

NASA gives Typhoon Lekima a twice-over with the Aqua satellite

The NASA Aqua satellite provided detailed images of Typhoon Lekima's cloud top temperatures, revealing cold air extending into the troposphere, generating heavy rainfall. The storm's powerful thunderstorms were also visible in infrared and visible light, surrounding a small, rounded eye.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 9, 2019

Enhanced natural gas storage to help reduce global warming

Researchers have designed plastic-based materials that can store natural gas more effectively, achieving a high deliverable gravimetric methane working capacity. The developed material, COP-150, has a total cost of only $1 USD per kilogram and can be produced using freely available plastic materials.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 9, 2019

Rice chemists show it's hip to be square

Rice University chemists have developed a fast and inexpensive synthetic route to azetidines, a class of molecules that can be used as building blocks in drug design. The new method allows for the creation of NH-azetidines, which contain unprotected nitrogen atoms, making them more accessible for further reactions.

SourceRice University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 9, 2019
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.

Development of simplified new mass spectrometric technique using laser and graphene

Researchers developed a simplified new mass spectrometric technique using a continuous wave laser and graphene substrate to analyze bio samples without sample preparation. This technology can obtain high-resolution images and secure enough heat needed for specimen analysis with small amount of light generated by the continuous wave laser.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 9, 2019

A genetic chaperone for healthy aging?

Scientists discovered a protein called LIN-53 that controls muscle integrity, lifespan and levels of an essential sugar. The protein is an epigenetic factor that affects gene expression and heritable traits.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalAging Cell·DateAug 9, 2019

Green turtles eat plastic that looks like their food

Research suggests green turtles favour narrow lengths of plastic in natural colours like green and black over debris of other shapes and colours. Plastic was found in all examined turtles, with smaller ones containing more pieces.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 2019

Oral appliances may be highly effective in treating a type of sleep apnea

A new study suggests that oral appliances can be an effective alternative to CPAP for treating moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. Patients with mild collapsibility and weaker reflex responses tend to benefit more from oral appliances, which move the lower jaw forward to prevent airflow obstruction.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateAug 9, 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.

Ultracold quantum particles break classical symmetry

Researchers at Heidelberg University confirm theoretically predicted deviation from classical scale symmetry using ultracold lithium atoms. The study provides new insights into the behavior of systems like graphene and superconductors, revealing a stiffening effect with compression.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2019

Study shows we like our math like we like our art: Beautiful

A new study shows that average Americans can evaluate mathematical arguments for beauty, using criteria such as elegance and universality. The research found that people share the same aesthetic sensibilities about math as they do about art and music, with consensus on what makes something beautiful.

SourceYale University·JournalCognition·DateAug 9, 2019
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.

Employees less upset at being replaced by robots than by other people

A study published in Nature Human Behaviour found that people are more upset about losing their jobs to robots than to other workers. The researchers discovered that this preference reverses when it comes to one's own job, with most individuals finding robot replacement less threatening to their self-worth.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 9, 2019

Chicago water pollution may be keeping invasive silver carp out of Great Lakes, study says

A new study by University of Illinois researchers suggests that Chicago's water pollution is likely keeping invasive silver carp out of the Great Lakes. The study found that certain compounds in the water flowing downstream from Chicago induce avoidance behaviors in fish, causing them to stop moving upstream.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateAug 9, 2019

Better tools, better cancer immunotherapy

Researchers have created a super-stable form of MHC tetramer reagent, enabling faster detection and manipulation of T cells in patients. This breakthrough opens new possibilities for personalized cancer treatment strategies.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScience Immunology·DateAug 9, 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.

When working with animals can hurt your mental health

Research highlights the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide among veterinarians due to animal suffering and economic challenges. Integrating well-being education into veterinary curricula is proposed to address this issue.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 9, 2019

Analysis of medical aid in dying in Oregon, Washington

The study examined 3,368 medical aid in dying prescriptions from Oregon (1998-2017) and Washington (2009-2017), finding that most patients were insured, non-Hispanic white individuals with cancer. The primary reasons for pursuing medical aid in dying were loss of autonomy, impaired quality of life, and loss of dignity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 9, 2019

Health effects of eating marijuana is subject of a new study

Researchers at Indiana University found that mice voluntarily consumed edible THC, resulting in decreased activity and lower body temperatures. The study's findings have implications for understanding the health effects of marijuana edibles on humans.

SourceIndiana University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateAug 9, 2019

Smuggling route for cells protects DNA from parasites

Cells use a molecular safety mechanism to smuggle genetic information molecules around the cell, which are then used to recognize and shut down parasites. This discovery provides new insight into how animal genomes defend themselves against DNA parasites and reveals a previously unknown RNA transport route.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCell·DateAug 9, 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.

Mental health specialists boost vets' access to outpatient services

A Veterans Health Administration program significantly improved access to mental health and primary care services for veterans with behavioral health needs. The initiative resulted in 11% more mental health visits, 40% more primary care visits, and a 9% higher average annual cost per patient.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 9, 2019

Bone strength could be linked to when you reached puberty

A new study from the University of Bristol has linked puberty timing to bone strength, finding that teens who mature later may catch up on bone density but continue to have lower bone density into adulthood. The study suggests that late-maturing individuals may be at increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis later in life.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 9, 2019

Cyborg organoids offer rare view into early stages of development

Researchers at Harvard have grown simplified organs with fully integrated sensors, offering a rare view into early stages of organ development. The cyborg organoids can monitor the electrophysiological activity of cells for up to 90 days, providing insights into how individual cells interact and synchronize during development.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 9, 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.

Conservative treatment with a sling can replace surgery for shoulder fractures

A comprehensive study from Aarhus University finds that conservative treatment with a sling is as effective as surgery for shoulder fractures. The study involved 88 patients over 60 who were either treated with surgery or a sling, and found no significant difference in function, pain, or quality of life between the two groups.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 9, 2019

Single-cell sequencing reveals glioblastoma's shape-shifting nature

A recent study using single-cell sequencing has revealed that glioblastoma, a deadly brain cancer, can shift among four distinct cell types, each requiring separate targeted therapy. The findings indicate a need for combination treatments and provide new insights into the cancer's plastic nature.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCell·DateAug 9, 2019

Artificial intelligence could yield more accurate breast cancer diagnoses

A new AI system developed at UCLA has shown promising results in accurately reading biopsies and diagnosing breast cancer. The system outperformed human pathologists in distinguishing between ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and atypia, a type of abnormal cell associated with higher breast cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 9, 2019

Abundant screen time linked with overweight among children

A recent study found that excessive screen time in Finnish children is associated with both overweight and abdominal obesity. The research, based on data from over 10,000 children aged 9-12, suggests a strong link between sedentary screen use and weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 2019
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.

Enhancing the quality of AI requires moving beyond the quantitative

Researchers suggest that AI engineers should adopt a broader approach, including qualitative methods, to better understand how AI harms emerge and to avoid documented pitfalls. By integrating social sciences in AI development, they aim to create more democratic and socially just technologies.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateAug 9, 2019