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Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 31


Page 31 of 42

Deciphering the 'mosaic' of the brain

Researchers have found that nitric oxide regulates neuron function by modulating a signalling step at the synapse, changing the position of the complexin protein within a synapse. This regulation can help understand neurological conditions and potentially lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 10, 2018

Absence of a transcription factor halts tooth development in mid-stride

The absence of Sp7 transcription factor halts tooth development in mid-stride, preventing the maturation of cells responsible for creating dentin and enamel. This discovery adds to our understanding of craniofacial abnormalities, which are common birth defects in humans.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateApr 10, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Diamond-based circuits can take the heat for advanced applications

Researchers developed a hydrogenated diamond circuit operational at 300 degrees Celsius, outperforming silicon-based devices in terms of efficiency and temperature resistance. The discovery has potential to improve energy savings and enable the construction of smaller, lighter electronic devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 10, 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.

Review examines everything we know about Internet gaming disorder

Internet gaming disorder has a complex background of personal, familial, and environmental factors that increase risk for certain individuals. The review notes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) is a good starting point for diagnosing IGD.

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateApr 10, 2018

Scientists learn how to avoid a roadblock when reprogramming cells

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have uncovered the role of MYC and LIN41 in reprogramming cells. They found that MYC helps cells overcome a roadblock, while LIN41 blocks another protein that causes the roadblock, allowing adult cells to successfully convert into induced pluripotent stem cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 10, 2018

Vampire bats' bloody teamwork

Research reveals vampire bats' reliance on their genome and microbiome for survival on a low-energy diet. The study shows that the bat's microbiome helps compensate for the lack of vitamins and fatty substances in their blood-based diet.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 10, 2018

Two million euros for isotope zooarchaeologist Cheryl Makarewicz

A researcher is exploring the emergence, transmission, and intensification of mobile pastoralism across the Eurasian steppe. The project will analyze human and animal bones, teeth, pottery, and other remains to understand how people relied on sheep, goats, cattle, and horses for food.

SourceKiel University·DateApr 10, 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.

Gene jumpstarts regeneration of damaged nerve cells

A Yale research team identified a gene that can spur regeneration of axons in nerve cells severed by spinal cord injury when eliminated. The study found over 580 genes potentially involved in regeneration, with one gene, Rab27, leading to successful axon regeneration in mice.

SourceYale University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 10, 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.

NASA watching stubborn remnants of ex-Tropical Cyclone Iris

Remnants of Tropical Cyclone Iris continue to linger off Queensland, Australia, with moderate to high vertical winds shear. The system is moving through warm sea surface temperatures, creating favorable conditions for potential re-development into a tropical cyclone.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 10, 2018

Risk stages defined for children with chronic kidney disease

A new staging system for children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) predicts the length of time until a child will need a transplant or dialysis. The system takes into account three factors: glomerular filtration rate, proteinuria, and disease etiology.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateApr 10, 2018

Hotter, longer, more frequent -- marine heatwaves on the rise

Researchers found a 54% increase in marine heatwave days every year, with significant impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity, fisheries, tourism, and aquaculture. The study also revealed an acceleration of the trend in marine heatwaves since 1982, with profound economic consequences.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 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.

How cheetahs outsmart lions and hyenas

A new study reveals that cheetahs modify their eating strategies depending on the presence of top predators like lions and hyenas. Mothers with cubs prioritize vigilance over speed, while single females and males focus on quick consumption to avoid prey theft.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 10, 2018

Fathers missing in childhood obesity interventions, study finds

A new study found that fathers are rarely included in family-based interventions designed to prevent childhood obesity, despite their significant influence on children's eating habits. The research emphasizes the need for more inclusive interventions that engage fathers to effectively improve weight outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateApr 10, 2018

UC Riverside graduate student receives Ford Foundation fellowship

Donovan Argueta, a UC Riverside graduate student, has won a $25,000 Ford Foundation fellowship to continue his research on the biological mechanisms driving increased eating behaviors in obesity. The one-year fellowship will allow him to complete his doctoral degree and pursue a postdoctoral position.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateApr 10, 2018

Two Colorado studies find resistance mechanisms in ALK+ and ROS1+ cancers

Researchers identified various resistance mechanisms in ALK+ and ROS1+ lung cancers, including kinase mutations and non-genetic changes. A second study demonstrates the ability to detect these changes in patient blood samples using ctDNA tests, potentially easing early detection of treatment failure.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 10, 2018

Thin engineered material perfectly redirects and reflects sound

Researchers at Duke University have designed a thin material that can control sound waves with almost perfect efficiency, revolutionizing the manipulation of acoustic waves. The device uses a class of materials called metamaterials to redirect and reflect sound waves, offering significant improvements over previous devices.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 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.

Tiny distortions in universe's oldest light reveal strands in cosmic web

Scientists decoded faint distortions in the universe's earliest light to reveal huge tubelike structures known as filaments, serving as superhighways for delivering matter to dense hubs. The study provides new insights into the formation and evolution of the cosmic web, including dark matter.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 10, 2018

Looking into the past to find the solution for managing future demand

A new design proposes a top-level intelligent dispatch system that incorporates artificial systems and real-world input to find the best way to dispatch power quickly and efficiently. By leveraging historical operation actions and records, the dispatch system can convert human experience into intelligent technical models.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 10, 2018

Machine learning offers new way of designing chiral crystals

Researchers at Hiroshima University used machine learning to design chiral crystals, analyzing 686 molecules and predicting the best chemical groups. The model, trained on data from 1000 achiral crystals, suggests that carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen elements are most likely to coexist in a chiral crystal

SourceHiroshima University·JournalChemistry Letters·DateApr 10, 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.

Study confirms link between traumatic brain injury and dementia

A large study found a significant link between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and dementia, with the risk increasing by 24% in individuals with TBI history. The study also found that the severity and number of TBIs were associated with increased dementia risk.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateApr 10, 2018

Digital penicillin production

Researchers at TU Wien have created a comprehensive mathematical model that accurately replicates the complex growth behavior of penicillin-producing organisms. This model is now helping Sandoz GmbH to optimize its production process, ensuring optimum quality by adjusting parameters such as nutrient supply in real-time.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalChemical Engineering Science·DateApr 10, 2018

Optimized perception in the twilight zone

Research at Goethe University Frankfurt reveals that the human brain prepares for dawn and dusk by reducing resting activity in the visual cortex, allowing it to process weak visual stimuli more effectively during these times. This mechanism may have provided an evolutionary advantage in the pre-industrial era.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 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.

New drug combo improves survival of women with rare uterine cancer

Researchers found that adding trastuzumab to chemotherapy regimen for women with uterine serous carcinoma significantly increased progression-free survival time, from an average of eight months to 12.6 months. The treatment showed promise in reducing tumor growth and improving overall survival.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 10, 2018

Study says charisma trumped narcissism for voters in 2016 US presidential election

A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers suggests that perceived charisma can balance out the negative effects of a narcissistic personality on voters' perceptions of leaders. The study found that charisma and values alignment contributed to voter choice, while media coverage and social media amplify familiarity with cand...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateApr 10, 2018

Polarization has strong impact on electrons, study shows

Researchers at OIST Graduate University discovered that polarization affects the motion of electrons in a two-dimensional system. By inducing rotation in both electrons and microwave fields, the team observed oscillations in electron current, indicating that electrons are indeed affected by polarization.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 10, 2018

Scientists develop haptic interface with 7 degrees of freedom

Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences developed a 7-DOF haptic interface allowing for seven degrees of movement. The interface enables true haptic interaction and can be used in medical simulation, virtual assembly and remote manipulation tasks.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 10, 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.

New Glasgow Coma Scale-pupils score and multifactor probability outcome charts

The new Glasgow Coma Scale-Pupils score (GCS-P) tool combines GCS scores and pupil reactivity to provide a more comprehensive assessment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) severity and prognosis. The GCS-P has been validated to be as predictive as other, more complex models, while being easy to apply and communicate.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateApr 10, 2018

Robust and inexpensive catalysts for hydrogen production

Researchers developed alternative catalysts made of cheaper and more readily available materials with equally high efficiency. The study found that the structure and composition of iron-nickel sulphide influence its electrocatalytic properties.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 10, 2018

UTSA researchers explore little-known, deadly fungal infections

Researchers at UTSA investigate the potential for vaccine development against Cryptococcus, a fungus that can cause deadly fungal meningitis in immunocompromised individuals. The study highlights the need for further research to overcome current challenges in distinguishing between human and fungal cells.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalJournal of Fungi·DateApr 10, 2018

Hepatitis C: A novel point-of-care assay

A novel point-of-care Hepatitis C assay has been developed to diagnose chronic cases in asymptomatic patients, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The assay detects HCV RNA reliably, faster than existing methods, and can be used at the point of care, reducing the need for centralized laboratories.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalGut·DateApr 10, 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.

UEA research paints underwater pictures with sound

Researchers at UEA are using silent marine robots to record underwater sounds, providing valuable information on sea-surface wind speed and monitoring storms. The robots can also eavesdrop on marine life, such as whales and dolphins, and detect human activities like marine traffic and seismic surveys.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·DateApr 10, 2018

Malnutrition, anemia among Rohingya children in Bangladesh refugee camp

A recent study found that malnutrition and anemia prevalence among Rohingya children in a Bangladeshi refugee camp is alarming, exceeding emergency thresholds of 15% and 40%, respectively. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted nutrition support to address this critical public health issue.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 10, 2018

Higher risk of infectious disease with both high and low cholesterol

Research from the University of Copenhagen found a U-shaped relationship between HDL cholesterol levels and risk of infectious diseases. Individuals with both very low and very high HDL cholesterol had high risks of hospitalization and death from infectious diseases, including gastroenteritis and pneumonia.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 10, 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.

Concussion increases the risk of prolonged headache woes

A Norwegian study reveals that even mild concussions can lead to long-term headache woes, affecting twice as many people as the general population. The research highlights the need for closer follow-up of patients with head injuries who experience persistent headaches.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Headache and Pain·DateApr 10, 2018

Researchers propose a blockchain data network to boost manufacturing

The proposed system, called FabRec, would allow companies to share manufacturing data in a secure and reliable manner, increasing transparency and efficiency in the supply chain. This public network could help small- and medium-scale manufacturers gain access to potential clients, while also promoting accountability and authenticity.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateApr 10, 2018

Disparities in coastal stream restoration in central California

Research finds that coastal stream restoration projects are unevenly distributed across central California, favoring areas with more affluent residents. The study analyzed 699 sites of publicly funded restoration projects between Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara counties, identifying native fish presence as the primary ecological driver an...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 10, 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.

Associating frailty to cardiovascular disease and mortality

Researchers found all frailty scores associated with future mortality, and some linked to cardiovascular disease but none to cancer. Certain scores outperform others for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular health outcomes.

SourceLuxembourg Institute of Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 9, 2018

Doing the nano-shimmy

Researchers at NIST created a plasmomechanical oscillator (PMO) that modulates light and amplifies extremely weak mechanical and electrical signals. The device, composed of a gold nanoparticle and a silicon nitride cantilever, can amplify faint signals with amplitudes as small as ten trillionths of a meter.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptica·DateApr 9, 2018

Rats, cats, and people trade-off as main course for mosquitoes in Baltimore, Md.

In a study on Baltimore neighborhoods, researchers found that mosquito bites vary by socioeconomic status, with rats being the primary blood meal source in lower-income areas. Humans and cats are also bitten, but proportionally more frequently in higher-income neighborhoods due to human behavior.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateApr 9, 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.

20-year-old mystery of malaria vaccine target solved

A team of researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute has discovered a human receptor protein on the surface of cells that malaria parasites interact with as they navigate through the body. This finding provides a key clue in understanding how to develop an effective malaria vaccine, potentially saving millions of lives.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2018

High efficiency solar power conversion allowed by a novel composite material

A composite thin film made of two different inorganic oxide materials significantly improves the performance of solar cells by optimizing its ability to absorb and convert sunlight into electricity. The material achieves a record power conversion efficiency of up to 4.2%, making it promising for future solar technologies.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 9, 2018

Childhood obesity declines project identifies community-based obesity strategies that work

The Childhood Obesity Declines Project (COBD) has successfully implemented community-based strategies to combat childhood obesity, documenting their development and implementation. The project's findings provide valuable insights into effective programs and policies that can help address the rising prevalence of childhood obesity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateApr 9, 2018