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Science News Archive 2018


Page 192 of 473

Mass timber: Thinking big about sustainable construction

Researchers at MIT have designed a highly energy-efficient community building using mass timber, demonstrating its potential for large-scale applications. The structure's laminated veneer lumber design offers improved fire resistance and carbon sequestration, making it an attractive alternative to conventional materials.

How to trigger innate fear response?

KAIST neuroscientists discover the anterior cingulate cortex plays a role in inhibiting innate fear responses to predators' odors, shedding light on instinctive fear behavior. The study paves the way for therapeutic treatments of fear-related mental disorders such as panic and PTSD.

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.

UCLA bioengineers use magnetic force to manage pain

Researchers at UCLA have demonstrated a promising approach to treating chronic pain by using biomechanical forces to control cell proteins. The study shows that magnetically induced mechanical forces can reduce pain signals in neurons by increasing calcium ions and adapting the cells' response over time.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Those fragrances you enjoy? Dinosaurs liked them first

Floral scents have been attracting pollinating insects and other animals since the mid-Cretaceous Period, providing olfactory excitement to these ancient creatures. The study found that modern and ancient flowers of the same lineages produced similar essences, suggesting a long history of floral fragrance production.

Hector weakens but remains Category 4 Hurricane

Hurricane Hector remains a Category 4 storm despite slight weakening, threatening the Big Island of Hawaii with hurricane-force winds and large swells. The storm is expected to pass 165 miles south of the island on Wednesday, bringing tropical storm force winds and potentially hazardous conditions.

Koala virus could explain why humans have 'junk' DNA

Researchers analyzing a koala virus hope it can explain why humans have accumulated millions of years of 'junk' DNA. The retrovirus has infected germline cells in humans for over five million years, altering the host genetic code and that of its descendants.

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.

Predicting genomic instability that can lead to disease

Researchers developed a novel approach to predict genes susceptible to Alu/Alu-mediated rearrangements, which can cause disease. The model analyzed sequence features of Alu pairs and identified hotspots of genomic instability associated with these elements.

Key aspects of human cell aging reversed by new compounds

Researchers at the University of Exeter discovered new compounds that can reverse key aspects of human cell aging by targeting mitochondria. The findings, published in the journal Aging, show a significant reduction in senescent cells and potential therapeutic applications for anti-aging treatments.

NASA gets an infrared look at intensifying Tropical Storm Ileana

Tropical Storm Ileana is intensifying off the coast of Mexico, with cloud top temperatures reaching minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Hurricane Center predicts heavy rain and flash flooding in coastal areas, with possible isolated maximum amounts of 6 inches.

Mice individuality is influenced by their relations

Researchers study mice living in 'Souris City' device to identify distinct personalities based on behavior differences. The study reveals that dopamine-producing neurons play a key role in shaping individuality, with mice exhibiting radically different strategies for navigating the maze.

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.

UH researchers win $1 million award to boost student success

The program will fund 80 two-year scholarships over five years for low-income students in the Cullen College of Engineering and NSM. The research aims to show that increasing access to social capital and engagement will help students be more successful.

Epigenetic markers of ovarian cancer

Researchers at Johns Hopkins and Insilico Medicine discovered novel epigenetically silenced genes in ovarian cancer, including methylation of the GULP1 gene. GULP1 expression is associated with late-stage disease and poor overall survival, suggesting its potential as a biomarker.

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.

Drug prices not always aligned with value, CU Anschutz researchers say

A study by CU Anschutz researchers found that US drug prices are not aligned with their value or net health benefits. The researchers used a forecasting model to calculate cost-effectiveness for commonly reimbursed cardiovascular drugs, revealing a wide spectrum of cost-effectiveness and varying price-to-health-gain ratios.

Striking a balance between immunity and inflammation

Researchers found that mice infected with hookworms produce super-killer macrophages that are efficient at killing the worms but also cause tissue damage and inflammation. The study reveals that RELMalpha, an immune protein, helps balance immunity and inflammation by downregulating inflammatory responses.

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.

Sources of atmospheric sulfur isotope anomalies

Researchers from China and the US analyzed five sulfur isotopes in aerosol, SO2, and coal samples to determine their sources. The study reveals that photochemical reactions in the stratosphere produce sulfate aerosols enriched with 33S, while biomass and fossil fuel combustion yield sulfates depleted in 36S.

Tobacco 'power wall' linked to adolescents' views about e-cigarettes

A RAND Corporation study found that adolescents who view tobacco ads in convenience stores are more willing to try vaping products. Hiding the 'power wall' behind an opaque barrier reduced willingness by 15%. Researchers suggest limiting point-of-sale advertising may help reduce industry efforts on adolescent nicotine use.

VIP neurons shift daily rhythms

Neurons in brain's master clock exhibit regular activity cycle that is disrupted under constant light conditions. Blocking these neurons reduces the severity of shifts in daily rhythms, suggesting a potential mechanism for modern sleep disorders.

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.

Having larger muscles could compensate for poor muscle quality in CKD patients

A new study by the University of Leicester found that larger muscles can compensate for poor muscle quality in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients, improving physical function and strength. The research suggests that muscle size is a more important factor than muscle quality in maintaining good physical performance.

Study: Prioritize cardiac monitoring for high-risk breast cancer patients

A recent study found that 8.3% of trastuzumab-treated patients developed heart failure, highlighting the need for cardiac monitoring in high-risk breast cancer patients. The study also showed a consistent increase in heart failure risk with age, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing cardiac monitoring for younger patients.

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.

Dispersal of humans in Southeast Asia

Researchers reevaluate Madjedbebe site evidence, suggesting a revised human dispersal timeline for the region; the findings have implications for understanding human migration patterns in Southeast Asia and surrounding areas.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Mapping the inner workings of a living cell

Researchers developed a new imaging tool to visualize metabolic activities in individual cells, tracking protein, lipid, and DNA production. The technique's potential applications include tumor removal, head injury detection, and developmental disorder diagnosis.

The starch risk to teeth

A systematic review of 33 studies found that more processed starches increase the risk of cavities due to their breakdown into sugars in the mouth. Whole grain carbohydrates, on the other hand, may offer protection against gum disease and a lower risk of oral cancer.

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.

Children are highly vulnerable to health risks of a changing climate

Climate change poses significant health risks to children, including dehydration, heat stress, respiratory disease, and vector-borne diseases. Researchers propose strategies for addressing these needs, such as establishing medical protocols and best practice guidelines for climate-related event planning.

Could climate change affect the development of Turkic Khaganate?

The study suggests that climate change, particularly volcanic activity and extreme weather events, contributed to the growth and decline of the ancient Turkic Khaganate. The researchers used tree-ring chronologies, ice core data, and Chinese dynastic chronicles to analyze the effects of climate change on the empire's development.

Learning while sleeping? Our learning capabilities are limited

Researchers used magnetoencephalography to show that brain's ability to group sounds into sequences disappears during slow wave sleep. However, elementary associations like stimulus-reflex response can be acquired during sleep, suggesting limitations in learning capabilities.

Neural signature of balance

A study published in eNeuro found a common neural signature of balance maintenance in the healthy brain, which could be used to assess balance in patients with movement disorders. The researchers used EEG and EMG to record electrical activity from the brain and muscles while participants walked or stood on a narrow beam.

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.

Combining on and off switches, one protein can control flowering in plants

A University of Wisconsin-Madison research team discovered a previously unknown mechanism for controlling cellular decisions, combining an on-and-off switch in a single protein. The protein EBS binds to two different chemical modifications on histones, promoting or preventing the transition to flowering.

Wetter soil is leading to reduced methane gas absorption

Researchers at the Advanced Science Research Center found that wetter soil decreases methane gas absorption by 53-89 percent, leading to a positive feedback loop between global warming and climate change. This study highlights the significant impact of reduced methane uptake on global warming and the need for further research.

Novel vaccine approach proves powerful against Zika virus

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a unique vaccine that employs an uncommon two-pronged approach to fighting the Zika virus. The single-dose vaccine proved effective in triggering an immune response that prevented later infection by Zika virus.

African killifish becomes fastest maturing vertebrate on record

Researchers found that African killifish can mature and reproduce in as little as two weeks, setting a new record for the fastest maturation rate in vertebrates. The fish's lifespan is also highly flexible, with some individuals reaching sexual maturity in up to 10 weeks.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Lessons from flies: genetic diversity impacts disease severity

A study by University of Utah Health scientists reveals that variation in the genetic modifier Baldspot can influence disease severity in retinitis pigmentosa. The research suggests targeting genes like Baldspot could lead to effective treatments against some disorders.

Earthquakes can be weakened by groundwater

Researchers from EPFL and ENS Paris have discovered that highly pressurized water in the vicinity of an earthquake can reduce its intensity. This finding contradicts previous theories and highlights the importance of considering fluid pressure in geothermal models to accurately predict earthquake behavior.

Ricocheting radio waves monitor the tiniest movements in a room

A new motion-sensing technology uses radio waves to detect a person's presence and location anywhere inside a room, even beyond the sensor's line of sight. The system works by analyzing patterns created by radio waves bouncing around the room, allowing it to distinguish between different scenarios and locate objects or people in space.

NASA data shows Tropical Storm John intensifying

Tropical Storm John strengthened off southwestern Mexico's coast, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms capable of heavy rain. The storm is forecast to become a hurricane and produce life-threatening ocean conditions along the Mexican coast.

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.

Rapid diagnostic coupled with local therapy developed for brain tumors

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a rapid molecular diagnostic that can determine if a tumor harbors an IDH1 or IDH2 mutation within 27 minutes. The test is coupled with a sustained release microparticle drug delivery system that provides localized treatment and prolonged survival in a mouse model.

Rice U. system selectively sequesters toxins from water

Rice University scientists develop technology to remove specific contaminants from drinking water and wastewater, reducing energy and cost. The system uses composite electrodes that selectively pull target ions, allowing for more efficient treatment and reuse.

Genome editing improves yield of spider silk

Researchers have successfully engineered silkworms to produce high yields of spider silk using genome editing, a breakthrough that could pave the way for mass production of this versatile material. The transgenic silkworms produced fibers with improved elasticity and extensibility compared to wild-type silkworms.

Animations prove effective in accurately measuring pain

A new mobile application called Painimation uses animations to assess and monitor pain better than traditional measurement tools. The study found that over 80% of patients enjoyed using the app and it provided similar or more information about pain type and cause than existing questionnaires.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New program keeps elderly out of emergency

A program keeping elderly aged care residents out of hospital emergency departments has been successful in reducing demand on emergency services. The 'Hospital in the Nursing Home' program saw a 47% decrease in hospital admissions among aged care patients, with an estimated economic benefit of AU$8 million per year.