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Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 12


Page 12 of 42

Dementia trend shows later onset with fewer years of the disease

A recent study indicates that dementia is being diagnosed later in life and lived for a shorter period, with possible contributing factors such as reduced stroke risk and increased vaccination rates. Researchers suggest other causes, including lower pollution levels and better nutrition, may also play a role.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJournal of Gerontology·DateApr 23, 2018

'Flexible' mirror for space telescopes

Researchers from Samara Polytech created a 'flexible' mirror that can deform in micron increments to compensate for optical aberrations. The innovation enables higher image quality and resolution for Earth remote sensing satellites.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·DateApr 23, 2018
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.

Status threat, economic hardship, and US presidential election

A study found that threats to dominant group status and economic issues like trade and China drove voting behavior in the 2016 US presidential election. Changes in household income and employment status were not associated with shifts in support for the Republican candidate.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2018

Fossil record quality and early hominin diversity

Research suggests that uneven fossil sampling patterns, rather than climate dynamics, are the primary driver of fluctuations in early hominin species diversity. Peak taxic diversity was linked to maximal rock exposure and collection effort.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 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.

Young athletes interested in healthy protein, not French fries

A study by the University of Waterloo found that young athletes prefer healthy protein options and value performance and recovery over unhealthy foods. The research suggests that marketing strategies can influence food choices, highlighting the need for nutrition guidelines in recreation facilities.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateApr 23, 2018

ASU team discovers a new take on early evolution of photosynthesis

A team of scientists from Arizona State University has re-thought the evolutionary history of photochemical reaction centers (RCs). They propose a new pathway that ancient organisms may have taken to evolve the great variety of photosynthetic RCs seen today.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPhotosynthesis Research·DateApr 23, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Asthma and hay fever linked to increased risk of psychiatric disorders

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found a significant link between common allergic diseases and a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders. Patients with asthma and hay fever were found to have a 1.66-fold increased risk of developing a psychiatric disorder within a 15-year period.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateApr 23, 2018

What learning looks like in the brain

Using advanced imaging technology, researchers found structural changes in the connections between neurons that strengthen to enable learning. The molecules involved in sending and receiving signals appeared to be organized in clumps or 'nanomodules' that both dance and multiply when stimulated by learning-like signals.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 23, 2018

Researchers see promise for safer opioid pain reliever

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new compound that could offer pain-relieving properties without the risk of addiction. The compound interacts with two types of opioid receptors, one responsible for pain relief and another that can reduce addiction liability.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 23, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Market failure, fake news and the First Amendment

A Duke professor argues that fake news and social media's 'filter bubbles' threaten the functioning of the First Amendment. The proliferation of cheap, easily spreadable misinformation raises concerns about the role of government intervention in regulating online content.

SourceDuke University·DateApr 23, 2018

Let it go: Mental breaks after work improve sleep

Experiencing rude behavior at work is linked to insomnia symptoms, but taking mental breaks can improve sleep quality. Employers can encourage programs aimed at reducing workplace incivility.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Occupational Health Psychology·DateApr 23, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Odd one out: Protein goes against the family to prevent cancer donate

A Melbourne research team discovered that a protein called NF-kB1, which was previously thought to drive cancer development, actually plays a critical role in preventing stomach cancers. The study also found that immunotherapy may be a significant tool for treating stomach cancers driven by chronic inflammation.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalImmunity·DateApr 23, 2018

Trees with grassy areas soften summer heat

A recent study by the Technical University of Munich found that trees with grassy areas can significantly cool urban environments, particularly on hot summer days. The research showed that black locust trees provide a higher cooling effect compared to linden trees, making them a promising option for cities like Munich.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 23, 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.

UTHealth receives funding to study stem cell therapy for traumatic injury

Researchers at UTHealth will investigate a stem cell therapy using MultiStem in severely injured trauma patients to prevent post-injury organ failure and improve recovery rates. The Phase 2 clinical trial aims to enroll approximately 150 patients and is subject to FDA review and approval.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateApr 23, 2018

Cigarillo packaging can influence product perception, study finds

A study by University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers found that cigarillo packaging with colors and flavors increases their appeal, even when text or pictorial warnings are present. The findings suggest that stricter regulations on imagery, such as plain packaging, may reduce cigarillo use.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 23, 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.

New research modernizes rammed earth construction

Researchers at University of British Columbia Okanagan have developed a new method to improve the strength of rammed earth walls using calcium carbide residue and fly ash as binding agents. The treated walls were found to be 25 times stronger than those without, paving the way for its use in modern construction.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateApr 23, 2018

Drinking affects mouth bacteria linked to diseases

A recent study published in the journal Microbiome has found that drinking alcohol can disrupt the balance of oral bacteria, leading to an overabundance of harmful germs. Researchers discovered that moderate drinkers had fewer beneficial bacteria than non-drinkers, while heavy drinkers had more potentially harmful bacteria species.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalMicrobiome·DateApr 23, 2018

Study: Health benefits will offset cost of China's climate policy

A new MIT study estimates that China's climate policy would improve air quality and human health, saving $339 billion in health costs by 2030. The researchers used a new modeling approach to simulate the effects of different policy scenarios on provincial air quality and public health.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 23, 2018

Even a single mindfulness meditation session can reduce anxiety

A single mindfulness meditation session has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress on the arteries, with participants reporting reduced anxiety scores even a week later. The study suggests that this brief intervention may help reduce cardiovascular risk in individuals with moderate anxiety.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 23, 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.

Opioid use linked to increased risk of falls, death in older adults

Recent opioid use is associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults and a higher risk of death during hospital stays. Researchers found that patients who had filled an opioid prescription before injury were 2.4 times more likely to have fallen, resulting in injury and higher mortality rates.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 23, 2018

Size, structure help poziotinib pose threat to deadly exon 20 lung cancer

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center found poziotinib to be up to 100 times more potent against cells with exon 20 mutations than other drugs. In mouse models, poziotinib reduced disease burden by 80% in EGFR mice and 60% in HER2 mice, with durable responses at 12 weeks.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 23, 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.

Watch your step: How vision leads locomotion

Researchers used new technologies to study how vision guides foot placement, revealing distinct patterns between vision and locomotion in different terrain types. They found that participants consistently looked 1.5 seconds ahead of their current location, suggesting a global locomotor strategy.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCell·DateApr 23, 2018

Just one more ash dieback spore could push European ash trees to the brink

Researchers found low genetic diversity in fungal samples across Europe, making it vulnerable to increased severity with Asian genetic diversity introduction. The risk of a single spore leading to the demise of remaining ash trees is high, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 23, 2018

Hemp shows potential for treating ovarian cancer

Researchers found that hemp extract slowed cell migration and reduced inflammation in ovarian cancer cells, suggesting a possible biological mechanism behind its anti-cancer effects. The study's results are comparable to or even better than current ovarian cancer drug Cisplatin, with potential for fewer side effects.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 23, 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.

£1 million toolkit to calculate economic value of urban greenspace

A £1 million toolkit will help cities and developers accurately assess the benefits of green infrastructure, supporting recreation, community events, and wildlife. The project aims to provide a practical decision-making tool for land owners and managers, protecting existing provision and promoting high-quality green space.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateApr 23, 2018

What the oldest peace treaty in the world teaches us

The oldest peace treaty, dating back over 3,200 years, shows that peaceful agreements were made through extensive negotiations between Egyptians and Hittites. The exhibition 'Peace. From Antiquity to the Present Day' challenges common clichés about ancient peace symbols, revealing a complex history of war and negotiation.

SourceCluster of Excellence "Religion and Politics"·DateApr 23, 2018

Animal cyborg: Behavioral control by 'toy' craving circuit

Researchers at KAIST have identified a neural circuit in the hypothalamus governing obsessive behavior towards non-food objects in mice. The MPA-PAG circuit modulates object craving and facilitates hunting behavior, allowing for controlled mammalian behavior with optogenetics.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 23, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

NASA's GPM sees Tropical Cyclone Fakir forming near Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Fakir is expected to intensify as it moves southeastward, with heavy rainfall rates reaching over 8.6 inches per hour in some areas. The GPM satellite revealed bands of extremely heavy rainfall spiraling into the cyclone's southeastern side, and predicted that the storm could peak in strength on April 24.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 23, 2018

BU medical student receives student fellowship from Alpha Omega Alpha

Melissa Chua, a fourth-year medical student at Boston University School of Medicine, has received the Alpha Omega Alpha Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship to conduct research on brain tumors. She is investigating the potential of combining oncolytic virotherapy and immunotherapy for glioblastoma treatment.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateApr 23, 2018

Translating elephant seal data into a symphony provides surprising insights

Researchers used GPS tracking data to visualize and sonify elephant seal group dynamics, creating a 45-minute symphony that showcases remarkable coordination in their ocean exploration. The study successfully compressed 10 years of data into a condensed musical composition, providing new cutting-edge research opportunities at KAUST.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateApr 23, 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.

Carbon removal during biofuel production

Researchers found that capturing and compressing 45 megatons of CO2 from US ethanol biorefineries could be cost-effective at under $25 per ton. Implementing carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) in California's low-carbon fuel standards and federal tax credits could catalyze substantial growth of CCS infrastructure.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2018

Caregivers can help assess whether older adults are dealing with delirium

A new study found that caregivers can use six proven tools to detect delirium on their own, taking just several minutes or less to complete. This enables caregivers to identify symptoms more easily than healthcare professionals and notify them sooner, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 23, 2018

Alcohol intake may be linked to premenstrual syndrome

A pooled analysis of published study data suggests that around 11% of PMS cases may be associated with alcohol intake globally. Heavy drinking is estimated to increase the risk by 79%, with potential biological explanations including altered sex steroid hormone levels and serotonin production.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 23, 2018
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.

Endocrine disruptors and frog metabolic disorders

Researchers report that tadpoles and adult female frogs exposed to endocrine disruptors develop metabolic disorders. Exposure leads to delayed metamorphosis, lower reproductive success, and smaller offspring.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2018

Applying network analysis to natural history

A team of researchers used network analysis techniques to study the fossil records of marine life, revealing patterns in Earth's natural history. The analysis showed that major events like mass extinctions had significant ecological impacts, with some effects previously underestimated or overestimated.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2018

Vitamin A derivative selectively kills liver cancer stem cells

Researchers have discovered that acyclic retinoid targets EpCAM-positive cancer stem cells by repressing MYCN expression, slowing cell growth and leading to greater cell death. This finding has significant implications for decreasing cancer recurrence and curing patients.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 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.

Attosecond physics: Molecules brilliantly illuminated

Researchers develop powerful femtosecond light source for mid-infrared spectroscopy, enabling detection of organic molecules at low concentrations. The system uses coherent light to reveal molecular fingerprints and diagnose diseases like cancer at early stages.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 23, 2018