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Science News Archive April 2018


Page 40 of 42

Study explores safety of rear-facing car seats in rear impact car crashes

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that rear-facing car seats are effective in reducing injuries and fatalities in rear-impact collisions. The study's findings align with crash data, highlighting the importance of following recommended guidelines for car seat selection based on child height, weight, and age.

Hawaiian-language newspapers illuminate an 1871 hurricane

Historical Hawaiian-language newspapers have been digitized, revealing new information about the 1871 hurricane's impact on Hawaii. The translations uncovered a timeline of the storm's progression and descriptions of widespread destruction.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tungsten oxide nanoparticles fight against infection and cancer

Researchers found that tungsten oxide nanoparticles selectively target cancer cells while being harmless to healthy cells, opening up new therapeutic possibilities. The particles also exhibit strong antibacterial properties, making them a potential solution for wastewater purification.

Island emus' size related to size of island homes

Research found that Australian offshore island emus were smaller versions of their mainland relatives and their body size correlated to the size of their inhabited islands. The study analyzed DNA and bone measurements of extinct small emus on King Island, Tasmania, and Kangaroo Island.

Attacking flu viruses from two sides

Researchers found that IgA1 antibodies can protect against flu viruses through two mechanisms: acquired immunity and innate immunity via sialic acids. This discovery could lead to more effective flu vaccines and treatments.

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.

Microbiome study suggests marine nematodes are not picky eaters

A recent study found no correlation between nematode species and their microbial profiles, contradicting previous findings in other organisms. The researchers discovered a diverse range of microbial associations with nematodes, including parasites and bacteria involved in nutrient cycling.

Great magma erup­tions had 2 sources

Research at Finnish Museum of Natural History sheds light on great magma eruptions, revealing two contrasting sources: the upper mantle and a deep mantle plume. This study resolves long-standing controversies and presents an interesting new framework for future geological research.

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.

New satellite method enables undersea estimates from space

Researchers at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences have developed a statistical method to quantify important ocean measurements from satellite data. This breakthrough enables scientists to calculate concentrations of key particles in the water column, providing insights into ocean dynamics and biogeochemistry.

New weapon in fight against dementia

A University of Delaware researcher is studying a naturally occurring dietary supplement, nicotinamide riboside (NR), to boost nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels and potentially treat age-related cardiovascular dysfunction. The study aims to improve physiological function in humans by reversing age-related declines in NAD+.

Sudden loss of wealth associated with increased risk of death

A sudden loss of wealth was associated with an increased risk of death among US adults. The study found that losing 75% or more of total net worth over a two-year period left fewer resources for healthcare expenses and had long-lasting health consequences.

Colleen's Dream Foundation funds ovarian cancer clinical trial

The Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) will receive $450,000 to fund a clinical trial for a newly developed ovarian cancer drug treatment, thanks to Colleen's Dream Foundation. The foundation has funded TGen in the past and has awarded over $1.2 million in grants to 27 institutions.

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.

Using ultrasound to help people walk again

A researcher at the University of Pittsburgh is using ultrasound imaging to develop a more precise interface between exoskeletons and individual muscles in people with incomplete spinal cord injuries. This technology aims to provide more efficient rehabilitation tools, reducing the risk of falls during robot-assisted walking.

New study reveals cost of 2017 salmon fisheries closure

A new model estimates the economic toll of fisheries closures off the West Coast, predicting losses of $5.8 million to $8.9 million and 200 to 330 job losses. The study aims to help policymakers anticipate the effects of future closures and plan management decisions accordingly.

Artificial molecules that mimic DNA

Artificial molecules mimicking DNA's surface features have been successfully synthesized, demonstrating the ability to inhibit activity of several DNA-binding enzymes. These findings pave the way for new medicines by inhibiting DNA-protein interactions.

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.

How to fight side effects of hormone therapy for prostate cancer

A new study from Ohio State University suggests that a comprehensive exercise and diet program in a group setting can help prostate cancer patients avoid weight gain and strength loss, reducing the risk of chronic health problems. The study found significant differences between men who participated in the program and those who did not.

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.

FASEB Journal: Parasite-derived protein for hemorrhagic cystitis

Researchers discovered a parasite-derived protein, H-IPSE, with potent therapeutic effects on chemotherapy-induced hemorrhagic cystitis in mice. The study found that H-IPSE alters host cell transcription, suggesting a novel approach to treating bladder pain and injury.

Astrophysicists map the infant universe in 3-D and discover 4,000 early galaxies

Researchers used Subaru telescope in Hawaii and Isaac Newton telescope in Canary Islands to create 3D map of universe's first 16 billion years. The team found nearly 4000 early galaxies, many of which may have evolved into Milky Way-like galaxies. These discoveries provide crucial information about early phases of galaxy formation.

Census data can level the playing field for small businesses

A University of Waterloo study found that census data can aid in decision-making for small businesses, helping them avoid costly mistakes. By combining public and proprietary data, researchers identified geographic hot spots and cold spots related to consumer spending habits.

UMass Amherst biologist will study plants' iron regulating system

Elsbeth Walker and her team will investigate how plants control iron levels, using sophisticated techniques to detect and test for iron signaling mechanisms. The research aims to understand how plants regulate iron uptake, with potential applications in breeding cereals that are rich in bioavailable iron.

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.

Clara Santato awarded 2018 MRS Communications Lecture

Clara Santato received the 2018 MRS Communications Lecture award for her work on melanin research, which has led to advancements in energy storage/conversion, ion separation/water treatment, and bioelectronics. Her research aims to develop sustainable technologies using natural materials.

Resonances to 'taste' loins and hams without opening them

Scientists from Spain have created a new technique using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the properties of Iberian hams and whole loins. This non-invasive method allows for the prediction of quality characteristics such as fat content, moisture levels, color, and sensory attributes without destroying the meat products.

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.

This is the environmental footprint of the egg industry

A recent study by Spanish researchers reveals the significant environmental cost of egg production in Spain, including greenhouse gas emissions and water contamination. The analysis shows that feed choice and layer replacement are key factors contributing to these impacts.

Australian vine can boost soybean yield, study says

A new study from the University of Illinois has discovered that the Australian vine Glycine tomentella contains genetic resources that can substantially increase soybean yield. Yield increases of 3.5 to 7 bushels per acre have been recorded in soybean lines derived from crossing with Glycine tomentella.

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Iris at Queensland coast

NASA's Aqua satellite captured an infrared image of Tropical Cyclone Iris, revealing powerful thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm has the capability to produce heavy rainfall and is currently moving southeast towards the Queensland coast.

Three-month-old infants can learn abstract relations before language comprehension

Researchers found that three-month-old infants can learn same and different relations in just six trials, with better performance when presented with fewer examples but more comparison opportunities. This finding suggests that humans' talent for relational learning is present from infancy and may even be a precursor to language learning.

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.

More communication needed regarding disposal of pet pharmaceuticals

A study by Oregon State University found that over 60% of veterinary care professionals do not counsel clients on the environmental stewardship aspect of medicine disposal. Pet supplies and over-the-counter pet medications are a significant industry, with potentially harmful effects on the environment when disposed of improperly.

It's an ecological trap

Researchers discover that warmer temperatures turn non-native milkweed species into a poisonous trap for monarch butterflies. This study highlights the impact of climate change on species interactions and the delicate balance between monarchs and their food source.

Cell discovery could help with research on genetic diseases

Researchers have discovered a rare form of the Golgi apparatus in the microbial amoeba Naegleria gruberi, which was previously thought to lack it. This finding provides new insights into the relationship between Golgi dysfunction and genetic diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Astronomers find 72 bright and fast explosions

A team of astronomers found 72 very bright but quick events in a recent survey, which they believe could be related to supernovae. The transients appear hot and large, expanding and cooling as they evolve, sparking debate about their origin.

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.

Easing uncertainty

Christa Fluehmann and colleagues demonstrate a way to measure position and momentum with minimal disturbance, enabling precise measurements in a limited range. This relaxation of the uncertainty principle has fundamental implications for quantum mechanics and opens up possibilities for practical applications like quantum computing.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Evolution of human locomotion

A study examined human ancestors' walking and climbing capabilities, revealing that humans' straight-legged gait provides improved walking economy but also allows for enhanced hip extension. This enabled early hominins like Ardipithecus ramidus to develop a balance between improved walking economy and climbing ability.

Predicting water storage beyond 2-5 years over global semiarid regions

Researchers at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics successfully predicted terrestrial water storage beyond 2-5 years in semiarid regions using a set of global land model ensemble simulations. The study improves near-term climate change projection and water resource management by incorporating low-frequency climate information.

NSF 'supermagnet' laboratory receives $184 million renewal

The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory has received a $184 million funding renewal from NSF over five years. The lab provides access to powerful instruments, including the world's strongest magnets, enabling scientists to advance fundamental science and applied research.

Protein analysis enables precise drug targeting

Researchers solved the structure of a key nervous system protein in complex with various drugs, enabling precise targeting. The discovery aims to develop medications with regulated action and fewer side effects by controlling which proteins are affected.

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.

Prenatal antiepileptic drug exposure and seizure severity

Mice prenatally exposed to valproic acid showed greater seizure severity and reduced neural migration. Voluntary exercise alleviated VPA-induced effects, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for prenatal VPA-exposed individuals with neurological disorders.