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Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 25


Page 25 of 42

Artificial intelligence accelerates discovery of metallic glass

A team of scientists has developed a machine learning algorithm that can quickly identify new blends of ingredients for metallic glass, accelerating the discovery process by 200 times. The method uses data from thousands of experiments to pinpoint potential materials and has significant implications for the future of materials science.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 2018

When superconductivity disappears in the core of a quantum tube

Researchers use ultra-cold neutral lithium atoms to study conductivity in a one-dimensional quantum tube. They discover an unusual state of matter that retains its insulation regardless of particle interactions, challenging conventional theories about materials.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 13, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Germany: compensated cirrhosis substantially increases comorbidities and healthcare costs for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

A study analyzed outcomes and costs for German patients with NAFLD/NASH who developed compensated cirrhosis, finding significant increases in comorbidities, mortality, and healthcare costs. The study highlights the need for new treatment options to improve patient outcomes.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2018

Scientists use machine learning to speed discovery of metallic glass

A team of scientists has developed a method to discover new metallic glass alternatives using machine learning and accelerated experiments, reducing the discovery time from decades to hours. The approach enables researchers to quickly narrow down potential materials and get immediate feedback from AI models.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 2018

Brief exposure to tiny air pollution particles triggers childhood lung infections

A new study found that brief exposure to fine particulate matter PM2.5 is associated with the development of acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) in young children, leading to increased doctor visits and hospitalizations. The research suggests that air pollution may impair the body's ability to fight off infections or cause damage ...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 13, 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.

Brief exposure to tiny air pollution particles triggers childhood lung infections

Research found that acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) is associated with elevated levels of fine particulate matter PM2.5 in young children, even those as young as two months old. The study, involving over 100,000 patients, suggests that air pollution may impair the immune response and increase susceptibility to infections.

SourceIntermountain Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 13, 2018

First global carbon dioxide maps produced by Chinese observation satellite

The Chinese observation satellite TanSat has produced its first global carbon dioxide maps, providing valuable data for future climate change research. The maps show a seasonal decrease in carbon dioxide concentration from spring to summer in the Northern Hemisphere and emission hotspots due to anthropogenic activity.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

Individual impurity atoms detectable in graphene

A team of physicists has successfully imaged individual impurity atoms in graphene ribbons using atomic force microscopy. The technique allowed them to identify boron and nitrogen atoms, expanding graphene's properties for applications like transistors and circuits.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 2018

Transfer learning meets livestock genomics

Researchers at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a computational method predicting harmful mutations in mammalian species. This approach enables classification of damaging mutations in other mammals, facilitating optimized animal breeding programs.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateApr 13, 2018

Cytoplasmic streaming is involved in the transmission of signals within giant cells in Chara algae

Research by Lobachevsky University and Moscow State University found that cytoplasmic streaming is involved in the transmission of signals within giant cells of Chara algae. The study showed that signal molecules formed in illuminated areas propagated with the moving cytoplasm, affecting photosynthesis and enhancing fluorescence in oth...

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalFunctional Plant Biology·DateApr 13, 2018
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.

Breakthrough brings gene-editing medicine one step closer to patient applications

University of Alberta researchers develop a new guide molecule, bridged nucleic acid (BNA), to improve the accuracy of gene-editing technology. The BNA is shown to be much more stable and stringent in finding the correct DNA sequence to cut, promising to bring gene-editing closer to therapeutic reality.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 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.

Family support networks in Peruvian barrios help to prevent child labor

A University of Seville study found that family support networks in Peruvian barrios play a crucial role in preventing child labor. The networks facilitate the exchange of information and social support between families, which helps control child labor. Schools serve as hubs for these relationships, bridging gaps to external resources.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalPsychosocial Intervention·DateApr 13, 2018

New qubit now works without breaks

Scientists have created a universal qubit design that can be used to build a quantum computer. The new superconductor qubit is based on a continuous superconducting nano-wire and has proven to be no worse than traditional designs in initial experiments.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 13, 2018

Alzheimer plaque affects different brain cells differently

A study led by researchers at Linköping University found that amyloid beta, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease, has different properties in different cell types. Glial cells can produce mature, less harmful forms of the protein, while neurons are more susceptible to damage.

SourceLinköping University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 13, 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.

Engineers propose coordinated control to assist drivers

Researchers developed a coordinated control architecture for motion management in ADAS systems, demonstrating improved safety and comfort. The study showed that 'coordinated control' strategy successfully damped out deviation errors, giving much greater precision in following intended trajectories.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 13, 2018

'Gayborhoods' still home to subtle discrimination

Research published in City and Community found that straight people living in traditionally gay neighborhoods often practice subtle forms of discrimination against their gay and lesbian neighbors. Despite claiming to support gay rights, many interact with their neighbors on the street in ways that contradict those sentiments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCity and Community·DateApr 13, 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.

Flaxseed-like particles can now grow bone, cartilage tissues for humans

Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a new class of clay nanoparticles that can direct human stem cells to become bone or cartilage cells. These nanoparticles, similar to flaxseed in shape, can grow tissue from stem cells in the absence of growth factors.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2018

A heavyweight solution for lighter-weight combat vehicles

A novel process called Friction Stir Dovetailing joins thicker aluminum alloys to steel, creating joints of superior strength and ductility. The technique inhibits intermetallic compound overgrowth, allowing for improved fuel efficiency and operational effectiveness in military combat vehicles.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScripta Materialia·DateApr 13, 2018

For repeat-spawning steelhead, more than once is worth the risks

New research shows steelhead trout that spawn repeatedly have greater lifetime reproductive success than those that spawn only once. However, this strategy comes with risks, including the dangers of the ocean and predation. The study's findings could lead to more effective conservation efforts for steelhead populations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2018

For fewer cast-related ailments in dogs, researchers find taller casts a better fit

Researchers at Colorado State University's Veterinary Teaching Hospital found that taller casts distribute pressure evenly over the leg, reducing pressure sores and soft tissue complications. The study suggests that veterinarians should fit dogs with longer casts to minimize secondary injuries and improve healing outcomes.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·DateApr 12, 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.

UNH researchers find combination for small data storage and tinier computers

Researchers at UNH have found a novel material combination that enables more stable perpendicular anisotropic energy, leading to larger amounts of data storage in smaller environments. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize information technology, enabling smaller and safer computers.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2018

Signs of early aging more likely among adolescent & young adult cancer survivors

Research found higher prevalence of frailty, pre-frailty, and comorbidities like depression & anxiety among adolescent & young adult cancer survivors. Lifestyle factors, including smoking & obesity, contributed to this risk, as did delay in care due to lack of health insurance.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology·DateApr 12, 2018

Actual fossil fuel emissions checked with new technique

A team of researchers led by Imperial College London has developed a new technique to estimate CO2 emissions from fossil fuels using atmospheric measurements. The study found that the reported and actual emissions matched up well in California, suggesting the technique could be used globally.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 12, 2018

A simple tool for doubling down on disease control

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have created a web-based tool to integrate control measures for co-endemic diseases like schistosomiasis and malaria. The tool allows users to assess the outcome of combining control measures based on local conditions and political constraints.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2018
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.

Tiny microbes make a surprisingly big contribution to carbon release

Researchers estimate that 67% of organic carbon within bedrock is released during erosion, with certain microbe populations using the carbon for nourishment. The findings suggest that this process could negate geological carbon dioxide consumption and impact Earth's climate.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

Team finds a mechanism for the composition of liquid droplets in cells

A team of researchers has found that RNA molecules recognize specific 3D shapes to condense into the same droplet. This mechanism is essential for forming RNA-protein condensates that may serve as 'crucibles' for enhancing biological reactions. The discovery provides insight into the formation of liquid droplets in cells and their pote...

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018
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.

Student develops gaming technology for environmental scientific research

A PhD student at The University of Manchester has developed a new method and software for using computer game technology to simulate complex scientific and engineering applications. Using powerful graphics cards, he can run large-scale simulations over 100 times faster than conventional computers, reducing costs from hundreds of thousa...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalComputer Physics Communications·DateApr 12, 2018

NASA still eyeing ex-Tropical Cyclone Iris' remnants

The remnant low-pressure area of Tropical Cyclone Iris continues to linger in the South Pacific, approximately 285 nautical miles north-northeast of Willis Island, Australia. Global computer forecast models predict the system will remain weak, but there is a possibility it could develop into a weak tropical cyclone after 84 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 12, 2018

First real-world studies report glecaprevir/pibrentasvir to be effective and well tolerated in chronic HCV infection

Two real-world studies from Italy and Germany report high rates of viral suppression and favourable safety profiles for glecaprevir/pibrentasvir in patients with chronic HCV infection. The treatment was found to be effective across a range of different patient types, with over 98% achieving sustained virological response.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 12, 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.

The secret to being cool: Try smiling

A study by Caleb Warren and colleagues found that participants rated smiling models as cooler than inexpressive models in print advertisements. The exception was competitive situations where an inexpressive athlete was rated more cool and dominant.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateApr 12, 2018

Tiny probe can see and take body temperatures

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a tiny fibre-optic probe that can measure temperature and see deep inside the body. The probe has potential to help study drug-induced hyperthermia and provide insights into other diseases, such as optimising thermal treatment for cancers.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalOptics Letters·DateApr 12, 2018
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.

The neurons the power parenting

Researchers found that individual aspects of parenting, such as motor behaviors and motivation, are controlled by distinct pools of galanin neurons. This discovery sheds new light on why some people appear to be natural parents while others exhibit abusive behavior.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateApr 12, 2018

Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis C-related cirrhosis achieving sustained virological response is likely to be cost effective

A Canadian study found that biannual ultrasound screening for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis C-related liver cirrhosis after achieving a sustained virological response (SVR) to direct-acting antiviral agents is likely to be cost-effective. However, surveillance is unlikely to be cost-effective in patients wit...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 12, 2018

Night owls have higher risk of dying sooner

A new study published in Chronobiology International found that night owls have a 10% higher risk of dying than morning larks. This is the first study to look at mortality risk and highlights the importance of allowing evening types greater flexibility in working hours.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChronobiology International·DateApr 12, 2018

Dialysis providers' awareness of racial disparities in transplantation is low

A recent study reveals that dialysis providers' awareness of racial disparities in kidney transplant waitlisting is low. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in reducing these disparities, but education and training are necessary to improve equity in access to transplantation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 12, 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.

Children's gestures, and what they mean

The EcoGest project aims to understand how children's gestures are connected to communication, with a focus on iconic gestures that pertain to the forms, functions, and movements of objects. Researchers will record children aged 4-5 years old in various communicative situations to analyze their gesturing patterns.

SourceBielefeld University·DateApr 12, 2018

Keeping an eye on the health of structures

Researchers used synthetic-aperture radar data from four satellites to analyze the Lake Urmia Causeway in Iran, finding accelerated deformation due to soil consolidation and human activity. They also developed a predictive model for future deformation, highlighting the potential of space-based monitoring for critical structures.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2018