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Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 22


Page 22 of 42

Optimizing the use of organs donated from overdose deaths

Researchers found that organs from overdose deaths have noninferior outcomes to those from trauma or natural death, but may carry higher risks of HIV and hepatitis transmission. Optimizing their use could help address the organ shortage, but caution is needed due to small potential risks.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 16, 2018

University of Waterloo develops new way to fight HIV transmission

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have developed a vaginal implant that decreases the number of cells targeted by the HIV virus, taking advantage of natural immunity. The implant, containing hydroxychloroquine, was tested in an animal model and showed significant reduction in T cell activation.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateApr 16, 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.

Women less likely than men to receive high-intensity statins following a heart attack

A new study by The George Institute for Global Health found that women in the US are less likely to receive high-intensity statins after a heart attack, despite guidelines recommending them. The study of over 88,000 adults suggests that adherence to these guidelines may be needed to prevent deaths from heart disease and stroke.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 16, 2018

New blood pressure guidelines could put lives at risk, say experts

The new guidelines would classify an extra 31 million Americans as having hypertension, but experts say this could lead to increased anxiety and depression, as well as serious treatment side effects. Doctors should only treat patients with high cardiovascular disease risk using reliable calculators.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 16, 2018

More prehospital deaths may mean increased intensity in violence

A Johns Hopkins Medicine analysis shows that trauma patients are four times more likely to die from gunshot wounds and nearly nine times more likely to die from stab wounds before getting to a trauma center. The increased prehospital mortality suggests that violence is intensifying.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateApr 16, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Are millennials taking over the supply chain?

Michigan State University research reveals that millennials are driving a shift towards customized, experiential supply chains where customers have more control over the product. This change requires companies to deliver tailored offerings and prioritize greater visibility and social responsibility.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalLogistics & Supply Chain Review·DateApr 16, 2018

NIH scientists watch the brain's lining heal after a head injury

In a breakthrough study, NIH scientists identified distinct immune cell subsets that work together to repair the damaged meninges and blood vessels in mice. The research provides new insights into the recovery process after concussion and may lead to the development of targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 16, 2018

Smoking may increase heart failure risk among African-Americans

Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing heart failure in African Americans, with hospitalizations for heart failure nearly three times more likely among current smokers. The study found that smoking a pack or more per day for 15 years was associated with twice the risk of heart failure compared to non-smokers.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 16, 2018

Fermentation byproduct suppresses seizures in nerve agent poisoning

Researchers discover urethane, a compound formed during beer and wine fermentation, is more effective at combating seizures caused by organophosphate nerve agents than the current recommended treatment. The study suggests urethane or its derivative may prevent seizures from developing into epilepsy.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 16, 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.

Dinosaurs ended -- and originated -- with a bang!

A new study reveals that the origins of dinosaurs were triggered by a crisis mass extinction event 232 million years ago. The Carnian Pluvial Episode led to repeated extinctions and a surge in global warming, acid rain, and climate perturbations.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2018

Scientists discover hidden structure of enigmatic 'backwards' neural connections

Researchers at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown uncover exquisitely organized map of visual space in feedback connections, providing insights into visual perception. The study reveals that these connections encode information from further locations in visual space, giving lower structures contextual 'whole picture' information.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 16, 2018

Thin film converts heat from electronics into energy

Engineers at UC Berkeley developed a thin-film system that can convert low-quality waste heat into electricity, achieving unprecedented energy density and power density. The technology has potential applications in various industries, including electronics and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 16, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Striosome' neurons in the basal ganglia play a key role in learning

Researchers isolated striosome neuron activity using optical neural imaging technology to shed light on their role in reinforcement learning. The study found that striosomal neurons fire more actively in response to odor cues associated with water rewards, indicating they are involved in anticipating the outcome of a stimulus.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 16, 2018

Using AI to detect heart disease

A new method developed by researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering uses machine learning to measure key risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and arterial stiffness using just a smartphone. The method was validated with existing tonometry data and showed high correlation with actual tonometry measurements.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 16, 2018
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.

New research predicts which trees are at greatest risk of beetle invasion

Researchers found that pure conifer stands, particularly pine-dominated areas, were more susceptible to southern pine beetle infestations. The study's findings have important implications for forest management, suggesting that preventative treatments like thinning can be effective in newly-occupied northern ranges.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateApr 16, 2018

Army develops face recognition technology that works in the dark

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory has developed an artificial intelligence technique that produces a visible face image from thermal images captured in low-light conditions. The technology leverages advanced domain adaptation techniques to enhance discriminability and recognition accuracy.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateApr 16, 2018

Is whole-brain radiation still best for brain metastases from small-cell lung cancer?

A recent study found that stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) can improve overall survival and reduce cognitive side-effects in patients with brain metastases from small-cell lung cancer. The study compared outcomes of 5,752 patients who received whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) to those of 200 patients who received SRS.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalLung Cancer·DateApr 16, 2018

Americans with a college education live longer without dementia and Alzheimer's

A USC study found that individuals with a college education have a lower risk of developing dementia and living with it for longer periods. The research suggests that targeting chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes may delay dementia onset but ultimately increase the number of people living with dementia at older ages.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateApr 16, 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.

Climate and synchrony of species interactions

Researchers found that species' phenology shifted four days earlier per decade after 1981, with increased synchrony between species pairs from 0.97 to 6.1 days per decade. However, the magnitude of shifts and correlations with temperature changes remain uncertain due to short time series and variations among species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2018

Genetic variation tied to consonant use across populations

A study identifies genetic variants related to consonant processing, dyslexia, and reading performance. Variations in the READ1 sequence are tied to modern human-specific changes acquired between 4 million and 550,000 years ago.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2018

Quantum shift shows itself in coupled light and matter

Researchers detect Bloch-Siegert shift in strongly coupled light and matter, a phenomenon previously speculated but never observed. The discovery could lead to a greater understanding of theoretical predictions in quantum phase transitions and the development of robust quantum bits for advanced computing.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 16, 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.

Hello DARKNESS

A team of UCSB physicists has created a device named DARKNESS, the first 10,000-pixel integral field spectrograph designed to overcome the limitations of traditional semiconductor detectors. This instrument enables direct imaging of planets around nearby stars and can detect fainter planets with higher contrast ratios.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific·DateApr 16, 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.

A new Bose-Einstein condensate created at Aalto University

Aalto University researchers have successfully created a new Bose-Einstein condensate that doesn't require cooling to near absolute zero. The condensate is made up of light and electrons in motion in gold nanorods, allowing for faster information processing and potentially enabling the creation of extremely small and fast light sources.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 16, 2018

Army scientists uncover how to stop cyber intrusions

Researchers at UCLA have discovered Majorana particles, which are critical building blocks for quantum computers due to their resistance to external interference. The discovery could lead to the development of robust topological quantum computing and potentially improve situational awareness for the US Army.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateApr 16, 2018

Transgender youth more often diagnosed with mental health conditions

A large cohort study found that nearly all mental health diagnoses were more common for transgender and gender-nonconforming youth than for cisgender youth, with depression and ADHD prevalence rates 4-7 times higher. The study aimed to raise awareness about the pressure young people may feel due to gender dysphoria and prejudice.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 16, 2018

Structure of a protein complex related with cell survival revealed

Researchers have determined the high-resolution structure of R2TP, a complex involved in key processes for cell survival. The study reveals that R2TP forms complexes with mTOR and other related kinases by interacting with HSP90.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2018

Carbon sequestration in China

Policies such as ecological restoration and improved crop residue management have contributed to increased carbon sequestration in China. China's distribution and magnitude of carbon pools vary in response to climate change and human activities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 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.

Regional health system growth and implications for stroke care

The transfer of stroke patients out of smaller community hospitals has increased significantly since 2006, with national rates doubling between 2006 and 2014. This trend highlights the need for better coordination between hospitals to determine which patients require transfer to specialized centers.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateApr 16, 2018

Job hunters drop ties with supportive colleagues

Research reveals job seekers focus on forming new ties for career advancement, rather than relying on former colleagues. Meanwhile, those considering quitting still value maintaining relationships with friends at work due to concerns about losing social connections upon leaving.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateApr 16, 2018

Education, not income, the best predictor of a long life

A new study by Wolfgang Lutz and Endale Kebede found that higher levels of education are associated with longer life expectancy, even after adjusting for income. This challenges the traditional view that rising income is the key to a healthier and longer life.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateApr 16, 2018
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.

Large aggregates of ALS-causing protein might actually help brain cells

Researchers discovered that larger, more visible SOD1 protein aggregates are protective rather than harmful to neurons. The study suggests that these fibrils could be a solution to reduce toxicity in SOD1-ALS, and finding drugs to promote their formation may help mitigate the disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2018

When three months from now feels right around the corner

Researchers at UofT discovered that relative and absolute time estimates contradict each other when considering unknown future events. Abstract vs concrete thinking influences which direction these estimates flow, with abstract thinkers feeling a sooner event, but longer time estimate.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateApr 16, 2018

Early environment may shape axon pathfinding

A new mechanism regulating axon pathfinding has been identified in zebrafish embryos, suggesting that neuronal activity can influence brain connectivity. The research found that optogenetic stimulation of an inhibited N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor was necessary for axons to properly cross the midline.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 16, 2018

Mosquitoes reveal fatal attraction

Researchers have identified three aldehydes in the skin of infected children that attract mosquitoes, which could lead to better malaria detection and control. The study's findings provide insight into the parasite's infection route and offer opportunities for developing new biomarkers and insect traps.

SourceRothamsted Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 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.

Precancerous colon polyps in patients with Lynch syndrome exhibit immune activation

A preclinical study by MD Anderson Cancer Center researchers found that precancerous colon polyps in patients with Lynch syndrome display immune system activation, challenging traditional models of cancer immune activation. The study suggests immunotherapy may be useful for colorectal cancer prevention in certain high-risk groups.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 16, 2018

Artificial antimicrobial peptides could help overcome drug-resistant bacteria

Artificial antimicrobial peptides, developed by researchers using a computer algorithm, have shown promise in combating drug-resistant bacteria. The most promising candidate, guavanin 2, has been found to be more potent than naturally occurring peptides and effective against Gram-negative bacteria.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2018

KAIST succeeds in producing 50x more stable adsorbent

Researchers at KAIST have developed a technology to increase the stability of amine-containing adsorbents by fifty times. This advancement brings solid carbon dioxide adsorbents closer to commercialization and paves the way for efficient capture of greenhouse gases.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2018

Spikes of graphene can kill bacteria on implants

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have discovered that a layer of vertical graphene flakes can form a protective surface that kills bacteria, preventing infections and eliminating the need for antibiotic treatment. The graphene flakes are sharp enough to slice apart bacteria without harming human cells.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateApr 16, 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.

Young Investigators honored by the American Association of Anatomists

The American Association of Anatomists has awarded its Young Investigator Awards to Bhart-Anjan Bhullar, Elçin Ünal, Maksim Plikus, and Helen Bateup for their groundbreaking contributions to cell biology, neuroanatomy, and developmental biology. These young scientists have made significant advancements in understanding the structural f...

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 16, 2018

UCLA researchers use search engines, social media to predict syphilis trends

Researchers found an association between certain risk-related terms on Google Trends and subsequent syphilis trends reported to the CDC. The Twitter-based model predicted state-level trends in syphilis with 90% accuracy, allowing for early warning systems to be developed.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEpidemiology·DateApr 16, 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.

A higher-energy, safer and longer-lasting zinc battery

Researchers at the University of Maryland have created a water-based zinc battery with high energy density, rechargeability, and intrinsic safety. The new technology combines old battery chemistry with a novel aqueous electrolyte, overcoming limitations of conventional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 16, 2018