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Science News for April 27, 2018


Sleep Research Society announces 2018 award recipients

The Sleep Research Society has selected three leading sleep scientists to receive its 2018 awards. David F. Dinges, Chiara Cirelli, and Sharon A. Keenan will be honored for their groundbreaking contributions to the field of sleep and circadian science.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

Introduced species overlooked in biodiversity reporting

Introduced species are deliberately excluded from biodiversity reports, distorting international nature reports and the public's view of nature. The study recommends including their positive contributions to accurately track the state of biodiversity and its evolution.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 27, 2018

A powerful laser breakthrough

A new technique enhances power output of single-mode lasers, enabling terahertz spectroscopy applications. The technique introduces a hybrid second- and fourth-order Bragg grating in the laser's optical cavity.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2018

Researchers map the potential spread of yellow fever virus to cities around the world

A new study led by St. Michael's Hospital maps the potential risk of yellow fever virus spread to cities around the world, analyzing travel patterns and environmental conditions. The research highlights the need for countries to reexamine their policies to prevent yellow fever virus importation, protect travelers, and prevent exportation.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateApr 27, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

City fish evolve different body forms than country fish

A North Carolina State University study found that two fish species, western blacknose dace and creek chub, evolved different body shapes in response to urbanization. The study showed that the dace became more streamlined, while the chub developed deeper bodies in urban areas. Lab experiments confirmed that genetic differences played a...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 27, 2018

Protein responsible for leukemia's aggressiveness identified

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine identified ubiquitin-fusion degradation 1 (UFD1) as a key protein in aggressive T-cell leukemia. Reducing UFD1 levels by 50% inhibited leukemia development without impacting healthy tissues.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalLeukemia·DateApr 27, 2018

First ever risk tool predicts readmission rates for patients after undergoing TAVR

A new study developed a novel risk tool to predict 30-day readmission rates in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The tool calculates a score based on several variables, including chronic kidney disease, anemia, and discharge disposition, with a c-statistic of 0.63.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Culprit vessel-only strategy has lower mortality rates compared to routine MVI

A contemporary real-world analysis of culprit vessel-only intervention (CVI) versus multivessel intervention (MVI) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and cardiogenic shock (CS) found lower mortality rates for CVI. The study, presented at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions 2018 Scientific Sessio...

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018

Capturing of the rare Yanbaru whiskered bat

A Kyoto University researcher has captured the first Yanbaru whiskered bat in Okinawa since its discovery in 1996. The critically endangered species was found to have a range-restricted habitat within the Yanbaru Forest, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

SourceKyoto University·DateApr 27, 2018

Parents may help prep kids for healthier, less violent relationships

Researchers found that positive family climate and effective parenting strategies during adolescence can lead to better problem-solving skills and less-violent romantic relationships as young adults. Positive engagement with parents is also associated with feelings of love and connection in young adult relationships.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateApr 27, 2018

Four Argonne researchers earn international honors

Argonne researchers Lawrence Harding, Albert Wagner, Stephen Klippenstein, and James Miller have been inducted as fellows of The Combustion Institute. Their pioneering work has led to significant advances in understanding the chemistry of combustion. The recognition highlights the importance of U.S. Department of Energy Basic Energy Sc...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateApr 27, 2018

Contemporary update to PROGRESS-CTO International Registry shows successful outcomes

A significant update to the PROGRESS-CTO International Registry reveals successful outcomes of Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Intervention (CTO PCI) for over 3,000 patients. The study found high success rates with acceptable complications, supporting its use in experienced centers.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

Gene transfer alters the neurodegenerative course of GM2 gangliosidosis

Researchers have developed a gene therapy approach to treat GM2 gangliosidosis, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. The treatment has shown promising results in mouse models and is now being tested in clinical trials using recombinant Adeno-associated viruses for gene transfer.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Gene Therapy·DateApr 27, 2018

Artificial intelligence helps soldiers learn many times faster in combat

Researchers at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory developed a new technology that allows soldiers to learn 13 times faster than conventional methods, potentially saving lives. This technique uses low-cost hardware and collaborative filtering to achieve a significant speedup in training compared to state-of-the-art systems.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateApr 27, 2018

Research improves prospects for imperiled Devils Hole Pupfish in captivity

A recent study found significant differences in nutrient levels and species composition between Devils Hole and a constructed scale replica at the Ash Meadows Fish Conservation Facility. The findings suggest that modifications to the refuge's operation could improve the prospects for continued survival of the critically endangered Devi...

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

New catalyst turns ammonia into an innovative clean fuel

Researchers at Kumamoto University developed a new catalyst that improves NH3 combustibility and suppresses NOx generation. The catalyst allows for the decomposition of NH3 into H2 with low ignition temperature and purification through oxidation.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of Catalysis·DateApr 27, 2018

Why cereal is better

Researchers discovered that two amino acids in the guard cells' protein SLAC1 enable grasses to quickly close their stomata and prevent water loss. This mechanism allows grasses to adapt better to drought, making them more suitable for water-scarce regions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 27, 2018

Catching mantle plumes by their magma tails

Researchers used supercomputer simulations to study the behavior of mantle plumes, a key factor in volcanic formation. The study provided new insights into how plumes interact with seismic waves and could help guide future experiments on the ocean floor.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateApr 27, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Visualizing belowground competition between trees

Biologist Judy Simon develops a system to observe interactions between tree roots in 3D, enabling the study of nitrogen uptake and communication. The transparent substrate allows for the observation of root activities, potentially contributing to sustainable forest management.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateApr 27, 2018

Scientists project a drier Amazon and wetter Indonesia in the future

A UCI-led study finds that tropical forests respond to higher CO2 by reducing water vapor, leading to drought in the Amazon and increased rainfall in Indonesia. This process can have significant impacts on biodiversity, freshwater availability, and food supplies.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

A shape to remember

Kyoto University scientists have developed a shape-memory effect in porous materials, which can change and retain their shapes. The new material, with a porosity of 46%, has been shown to adsorb carbon dioxide and retain its shape after multiple cycles.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 27, 2018

New technology for measuring brain blood flow with light

Researchers at UC Davis developed a new technique using conventional digital camera technology to measure brain blood flow. The method, called interferometric diffusing wave spectroscopy, boosts the signal to detect fluctuations in blood motion, providing valuable information about blood flow.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalOptica·DateApr 27, 2018

TACC builds seamless software for scientific innovation

The Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) is developing innovative software solutions to enhance scientific productivity. Their interactive parallelization tool, IPT, enables researchers to convert serial code into parallel code using tens of thousands of processors, achieving significant speed-ups and user productivity enhancements. ...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateApr 27, 2018

Study reveals how bacteria communicate in groups to avoid antibiotics

Researchers found that bacteria in Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonies produce dual signal responses to antibiotic tobramycin, including a localized and community-wide response. This communication may enable the bacteria to develop tolerance to some antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 27, 2018

A first for quantum physics: Electron orbitals manipulated in diamonds

Scientists have successfully engineered defects in diamonds to store and transfer quantum information, a crucial step towards quantum computing. The technique uses vibrations from a mechanical resonator to stabilize optical properties, enabling the manipulation of electron orbitals.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

Bright future for solar cell technology

Scientists at OIST have developed stable and efficient perovskite solar cells that could revolutionize the solar industry. The new material is made of inorganic components, making it more heat-stable than previous versions.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

Mouse study identifies new target for human accelerated aging syndrome

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have identified N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) as a potential therapeutic target for Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), a rare condition that causes premature ageing. In a mouse model, chemical inhibition or genetic deregulation of NAT10 led to significant health and lifespan gains.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2018

Size matters when fighting cancer, groundbreaking UTHealth study finds

Researchers at UTHealth and Ohio State University combined virotherapy with boosting the natural immune system to fight cancer. The study found that increasing the number of externally added NK cells strengthens the ability to fight cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2018

American Academy of Sleep Medicine announces 2018 award recipients

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has selected several individuals for its 2018 awards, including Dr. Jack D. Edinger and Naresh M. Punjabi, who received the Nathaniel Kleitman Distinguished Service Award and William C. Dement Academic Achievement Award respectively. Arianna Huffington also received the Mark O. Hatfield Public Pol...

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateApr 27, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Black-oriented films can be highly profitable when marketed to all audiences, study finds

A study published in the Journal of Advertising Research found that both Black and White teens perceive Black-oriented media as being targeted towards them, suggesting the potential for increased profitability when marketed to a broader audience. The study surveyed 1,900 adolescents ages 14-17 about their movie preferences.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Advertising Research·DateApr 27, 2018

First results announced for the AVIATOR 2 international multicenter registry

The AVIATOR 2 international registry found significant discrepancies between physician-perceived risks and calculated scores for stroke, ischemic risk, and bleeding in patients with AF undergoing PCI. The study used a novel smartphone-based survey to capture physician and patient perspectives on antithrombotic therapies after PCI.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

Helmholtz researchers get to grips with a herpesvirus

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München have identified 16 virus structures that can be attacked by killer T cells, which could lead to new therapies for immunocompromised individuals and patients with autoimmune diseases. The researchers discovered these targets using an algorithm and verified them in a large group of patients.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 27, 2018

Research gives new ray of hope for solar fuel

A team of renewable energy experts at the University of Exeter has developed a new method to produce hydrogen from sunlight using a revolutionary photo-electrode. This breakthrough could create a virtually limitless energy source with zero carbon emissions and double the energy density of fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 27, 2018

£1.4 million funding for advanced manufacturing

Swansea University's METaL scheme has received £1.4m EU funding to increase skills in the advanced manufacturing sector. The additional funding will enable the scheme to support over 400 people in gaining technical skills, with a focus on emerging sectors such as energy and smart manufacturing.

SourceSwansea University·DateApr 27, 2018

Music activates regions of the brain spared by Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that music activates the salience network of the brain, which remains relatively functioning in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that personalized music programs may be an alternative route for communicating with patients who have lost contact with their environment.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·DateApr 27, 2018
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.