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Science News for September 20, 2019


Diagnostic radiologists with lifetime ABR certificates less likely to participate in MOC

A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that diagnostic radiologists with lifetime ABR certificates were significantly less likely to participate in Maintenance of Certification (MOC) programs. Participation rates were only 13.9% among those with lifetime certificates, compared to nearly universal participation...

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateSep 20, 2019

Rethinking how cholesterol is integrated into cells

The study reveals how cholesterol is incorporated into cells through a previously unknown pathway, providing new understanding of cellular function. The discovery has significant implications for the regulation of cholesterol uptake and potential applications in treating diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCell·DateSep 20, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New Penn-developed vaccine prevents herpes in mice, guinea pigs

Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed a vaccine that protects against genital herpes, with almost all animal subjects exposed to the virus showing sterilizing immunity. The vaccine stimulates three types of antibodies to block the virus from entering cells and ensure innate immune system protective functions are not turned off.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Immunology·DateSep 20, 2019

SUTD researchers revolutionize 3D printed products with data-driven design method

Researchers from SUTD have developed a holistic approach that applies data-driven methods in design search and optimization for additive manufacturing (AM) products. The new method uses surrogate models to rapidly narrow down the high-dimensional design space, enabling designers to explore millions of design alternatives.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·DateSep 20, 2019

Water may be scarce for new power plants in Asia

Climate change and increased demand for energy may lead to a scarcity of water resources for power plants in developing parts of Asia. The study analyzed existing and planned coal-fired power plants and found that there may not be enough water to cool them, particularly under scenarios with higher global temperatures.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateSep 20, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New insight as to how cells maintain their identity

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have discovered six proteins essential for directing PRC2 to specific areas in the genome. These findings provide insight into how cells maintain their identity, normal embryonic development, and may impact cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 20, 2019

Study suggests flavored e-cigarettes may worsen asthma

Researchers found that certain flavored e-cigarette flavors, even without nicotine, can exacerbate asthma symptoms and increase tissue scarring. Flavors like Black Licorice and Banana Pudding were particularly problematic.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 20, 2019

Surface melting causes Antarctic glaciers to slip faster towards the ocean

New research by University of Sheffield scientists reveals a direct link between surface melting and short bursts of glacier acceleration in Antarctica, with some glaciers moving up to 400m per year. As temperatures continue to rise, this phenomenon is expected to become more common, affecting sea level rise predictions.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2019

Fractal patterns in growing bacterial colonies

Researchers have applied a novel method to model bacterial colony growth, replicating fractal patterns observed in nature. The study used agent-based modeling to simulate the behavior of bacteria, varying parameters such as cell division speed and mechanical forces.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateSep 20, 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.

Researchers find way to kill pathogen resistant to antibiotics

Biochemists at Nagoya University have found a way to selectively kill Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria using a hijacked haem acquisition system that targets other dangerous bacteria, providing an alternative treatment strategy for resistant infections.

SourceNagoya University·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateSep 20, 2019

$2.8M in NIH grants to pinpoint male fertility genes

Researchers at Michigan State University are using $2.8M in NIH grants to study the piRNA pathway and its role in controlling male fertility. They hope to identify new targets for male contraception, addressing a significant reproductive health issue affecting one in ten couples.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 20, 2019

UTA, University of Maryland team up to better understand sleep apnea treatment in children

Researchers found that surgical intervention for sleep apnea in children does not significantly improve behavior, cognitive performance, or symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. The study suggests alternative explanations for improved outcomes, shedding new light on a widely performed pediatric surgical procedure.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 20, 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.

SCAI stages of cardiogenic shock stratify mortality risk

A new shock classification scheme has been validated in a retrospective study analyzing over 10,000 cardiac intensive care patients, revealing a stepwise increase in unadjusted CICU and hospital mortality with each successive SCAI shock stage.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 20, 2019

Clarification of a new synthesis mechanism of semiconductor atomic sheet

Researchers have clarified a new synthesis mechanism for transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD), a type of semiconductor atomic sheet. The breakthrough enables the large-scale integration of atomic-order materials, paving the way for next-generation flexible electronics.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 20, 2019

New method for the measurement of nano-structured light fields

Researchers developed a nano-tomographic technique to detect invisible properties of nano-structured light landscapes in the focus of a lens. This approach enables single, fast, and straightforward camera imaging of these complex light fields.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 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.

Marijuana use among US adults with, without medical conditions

A recent study examined marijuana use among US adults with and without medical conditions, finding that nearly one-third of adults reported using marijuana in the past year. The study suggests that marijuana use is common across various populations, with potential implications for both medical and non-medical conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 20, 2019

Malawi study confirms lasting impact of life-saving technology

A study conducted at 26 Malawi government hospitals found that the national adoption of rugged, low-cost neonatal CPAP devices improved survival rates for newborns admitted with breathing problems. The study showed a 10% improvement in survival after CPAP was available for babies with respiratory distress syndrome.

SourceRice University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 20, 2019

Shocking embryonic limbs into shape

Using electric shocks accelerates the formation of limb and tail buds in early chicken embryos. The study reveals that concentric rings within the blastula deform in a cascade-like process, inducing each ring to change shape.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateSep 20, 2019

Climate change study finds that maple syrup season may come earlier

A study found that climate change could cause the maple syrup season to shift one month earlier, with eastern North America potentially losing production capacity. The research suggests that areas like Quebec will see increased production, while others may experience declines.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateSep 20, 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.

Oral health effects of tobacco products: Science and regulatory policy proceedings

Researchers presented data on the oral microbiome and immunity affected by tobacco use, while highlighting the need for research on novel nicotine delivery systems. The conference aimed to promote cessation or deter initiation among current or potential tobacco users through the dissemination of scientific evidence.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalAdvances in Dental Research·DateSep 20, 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.

Pathway found for treatment-resistant lung cancer

Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have found a link between high levels of TIMP-1 and IL-6, two molecules that contribute to chemotherapy resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. The study's findings suggest that elevated levels of these molecules may be an indicator of poor prognosis and a potential target for improving treat...

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCancers·DateSep 20, 2019

NASA estimates Imelda's extreme rainfall

NASA's Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) estimated heavy rainfall totals of 16-24 inches between Freeport and Beaumont, Texas, and 6 inches in southwestern Louisiana. The IMERG product provides near-real-time rain estimates every 30 minutes, combining satellite observations with other data sources.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 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.

Long-acting injectable multi-drug implant shows promise for HIV prevention and treatment

A new study published in Nature Communications presents a promising alternative for HIV treatment and prevention. The injectable implant combines multiple drugs and is ultra-long-acting, addressing challenges faced with current methods. It can be removed surgically within weeks or biodegrades into body-absorbed acids if not needed.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2019

Evolution of learning is key to better artificial intelligence

The study demonstrates the evolution of associative learning in an artificial organism without a brain, allowing it to navigate complex environments and adapt to changing signals. This breakthrough has huge implications for developing robots that can learn from experiences as effectively as humans do.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 20, 2019

Study: Many Tennesseans are misinformed about tornado protection

A study found that many Tennesseans are misinformed about tornado protection, with misconceptions common across the state. Researchers recommend taking tornado warnings seriously and seeking shelter in sturdy buildings or mobile homes immediately upon receiving an alert.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 20, 2019

Why is the brain disturbed by harsh sounds?

Researchers from UNIGE found that harsh sounds between 40-80 Hz stimulate the brain's aversion networks, activating salience and pain centers. This explains why humans are drawn to these frequencies, which are also used in alarm systems.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 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.

NASA catches Tropical Storm Tapah by the tail

Tropical Storm Tapah exhibits a large thunderstorm band resembling a tail on NASA satellite imagery, suggesting better organization. The storm is also showing signs of strengthening, with forecasters predicting it will move north-northeast through the Sea of Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 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.

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.

UAF researchers embark on an expedition frozen at sea

A team of UAF researchers will spend a year on board the Polarstern, studying the intersection of ocean, sea ice, and atmosphere in the Arctic. They aim to understand why the Arctic is warming faster than any other region on the planet.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateSep 20, 2019

Weathering Antarctic storms -- Weather balloon data boost forecasting skill

A Japanese research team found that incorporating radiosonde data from Antarctica improves forecasting accuracy for severe cyclones. The study successfully predicted the central pressure, wind speed, and moisture transport of an extreme cyclonic event 2.5 days in advance.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateSep 20, 2019

Keren Bergman wins $4.8M DARPA grant

A team led by Keren Bergman is developing on-chip integrated photonic devices for interconnects that consume 100 times less energy than today's communication systems while delivering 100 times more communication bandwidths between computing nodes. The project aims to break the boundaries on available communications capabilities of comp...

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateSep 20, 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.

NASA data shows Humberto now post-tropical

Satellite images show Humberto transitioning to an extratropical cyclone, with frontal features and cooler air wrapping around the circulation. The system is expected to become a large and powerful extratropical cyclone before being absorbed by another low-pressure area.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 2019

Chinese scientists develop novel biophotovoltaics system

Researchers have created a two-species microbial consortium to improve the performance of biophotovoltaics, generating a power density of 150 mW·m-2. The system can stably operate for over 40 days, setting a new record for BPV longevity and power output per device.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2019

Hurricane Jerry gets its temperature taken by NASA-NOAA satellite

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite used infrared light to analyze Hurricane Jerry's strength, finding cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This indicates strong storms with the potential to generate heavy rainfall, posing a life-threatening threat to the Northern Leeward Islands.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 2019
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.

NASA finds a tiny tropical storm Kiko

Tropical Storm Kiko is a compact storm with sustained winds of near 60 mph, located about 1,360 miles west-southwest of Baja California. The storm has redeveloped an inner circulation and is expected to turn toward the west-southwest over the weekend.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 2019

The best of two worlds: Magnetism and Weyl semimetals

Scientists have discovered magnetic Weyl semimetals, which exhibit both topological and magnetic properties. These materials have the potential to enable dissipationless transport and revolutionize data storage and energy conversion.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2019

journal of Dental Research centennial featured article: Tooth bioengineering and regene

The International Association for Dental Research celebrates its centennial with a special article highlighting key successes in tooth bioengineering and regenerative dentistry. Researchers discuss promising developments, including whole tooth tissue engineering and the potential for improved dental repair therapies.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateSep 20, 2019

Daily rainfall over Sumatra linked to larger atmospheric phenomenon

A new study reveals that the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) significantly impacts daily rainfall patterns in Sumatra. The MJO brings cloudy, rain periods and sunny, drier periods, with greater potential for significant rain events when active near the Maritime Continent.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalJournal of the Atmospheric Sciences·DateSep 20, 2019

HD microscopy in milliseconds

Researchers from Bielefeld University have developed a faster method for super-resolution SR-SIM microscopy, allowing for real-time recording of cell movements and observations of small structures. This enables biologists to explore such structures in detail, particularly in the study of viral particles on their way through cells.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2019
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.

Scientists identify a personality feature that could predict how often you exercise

A study published in Psychological Science found that individuals who make concrete plans to meet their goals, such as exercising, tend to engage in more physical activity. Those with high planfulness ratings went to the gym more frequently during a 20-week period compared to those with lower planfulness ratings.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 20, 2019