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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 427


Page 427 of 473

Timing is everything, to our genes

A Salk Institute study has discovered that nearly 80 percent of genes exhibit daily fluctuations, with the most rhythmic genes peaking in early morning and late afternoon. This finding has significant implications for understanding circadian disruption's impact on diseases such as depression and heart disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateFeb 8, 2018

FSU researchers: Savanna fires pump Central African forests full of nitrogen

Researchers have discovered a new role for large-scale fires and high nitrogen deposition in the ecology and biogeochemistry of Central African forests. The findings suggest that massive tracts of biomass from savannas are swept up into the atmosphere and deposited on the forests, stimulating growth in certain species.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2018

Researchers help robots think and plan in the abstract

Scientists at Brown University have created a way for robots to learn high-level abstract representations of their surroundings, enabling them to plan and act more autonomously. By using machine learning algorithms, robots can distill complex sensory data into simple, text-based descriptions that facilitate planning and skill execution.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Artificial Intelligence Research·DateFeb 8, 2018

Stroke risk factors unique to women identified

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital have identified unique stroke risk factors in women, including early age of menarche, low levels of dehydroepiandrosterone hormone, and oral estrogen use. The study emphasizes the need for clinicians to consider these factors, particularly in women with a history of pregnancy complications.

First 3-D imaging of excited quantum dots

A US research team has successfully imaged excited quantum dots at multiple orientations using a new technique called single molecule absorption scanning tunneling microscopy (SMA-STM). This allows for the visualization of defects in quantum dots, which can be characterized and precisely controlled to improve their performance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateFeb 8, 2018

Improving drone performance in headwinds

Researchers from Tohoku University found that angling quad-rotor rotors by 20 degrees can reduce pitching by a quarter, improving stability in heavy winds. The study also identified the effects of rotor tilting on pitching moment generation, with outward tilting reducing pitch by 26%.

SourceTohoku University·JournalInternational Journal of Micro Air Vehicles·DateFeb 8, 2018

Deep-brain exploration with nanomaterial

Researchers have developed a non-invasive method for stimulating the brain using nanoparticles that absorb near-infrared light and emit visible photons, allowing for control of specific brain cells. This breakthrough enables the treatment of conditions such as seizures and fear memories with minimal invasiveness.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateFeb 8, 2018

Circulating lipids play roles in many diseases

Recent studies investigate the role of cholesterol and other lipids in blood circulation, discovering a correlation between bad cholesterol levels and muscle damage in muscular dystrophy patients. Another study reveals a synergistic effect of hepatitis B and alcohol on cholesterol metabolism, increasing biosynthesis and impairing uptake.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateFeb 8, 2018

Alien honeybees could cause plant extinction

Introduced 'alien' honeybees are competing with native bees for resources, posing a threat to the survival of plants that rely on specific pollinators. This is particularly concerning in arid environments where super-generalist honeybees visit up to 55% of available plant species.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateFeb 8, 2018

UTHealth leads ACSM paper on safety recommendations for energy drinks

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has published new safety recommendations for energy drink consumption, particularly among children, adolescents, and individuals with cardiovascular conditions. The guidelines warn against excessive caffeine intake and advise against using energy drinks before or after strenuous exercise.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalCurrent Sports Medicine Reports·DateFeb 8, 2018

A lightning-based nowcast-warning approach to predict short-duration rainfall

Scientists developed a lightning-based approach to predict short-duration rainfall, using sharp increasing rates of lightning flashes to provide early warnings. The new method was tested over the Beijing Metropolitan Region and showed encouraging model performance, with successful early warnings for 67.8% of moderate and 87.0% of inten...