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Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 38


Page 38 of 42

Rare coastal martens under high risk of extinction in coming decades

A new study warns of the high risk of extinction for rare coastal martens in Oregon and northern California within the next 30 years. The researchers estimated that only 87 adults remain in two subpopulations, with an extinction risk ranging from 32% to 99%. Habitat loss and human-caused deaths are major threats to their survival.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 4, 2018

A new way to atomically thin materials

Researchers developed a new production method for titanium carbide MXene by selectively etching silicon from titanium silicon carbide, resulting in flakes with unique properties. The process uses mixtures of hydrofluoric acid and an oxidizing agent to weaken silicon bonds and facilitate synthesis.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 4, 2018

Ancient origins of viruses discovered

A new study reveals that many viruses infecting humans today have ancient evolutionary histories dating back to the first vertebrates, with discoveries made in fish and reptiles. The research, a collaboration between several institutions, found 214 novel RNA viruses in healthy animals, including relatives of Ebola and influenza viruses.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Notre Dame researchers developing renewable energy approach for producing ammonia

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame are developing a renewable energy approach for synthesizing ammonia, which is essential for fertilizers and food production. The new process utilizes plasma in combination with non-noble metal catalysts to generate ammonia at milder conditions than the traditional Haber-Bosch process.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 4, 2018

From car engines to exoplanets

Researchers have developed chemical models from car engines to study the atmospheres of hot exoplanets. The results show deviations in these atmospheres due to extreme temperatures and pressures.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·DateApr 4, 2018

Trap, contain and convert

Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a new method to convert CO2 into a solid inert mineral in basalt, which holds promise as an effective abatement agent for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The research revealed that 47 kilograms of CO2 can be converted into mineral inside one cubic meter of basalt.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateApr 4, 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.

In promoting vaccination, behavioral strategies more effective than persuasion

A comprehensive review of scientific findings on vaccination behavior reveals that shaping patients' and parents' behavior is more effective than trying to change their minds. The report highlights the importance of leveraging favorable intentions and correcting misinformation through clear and intuitive communication.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateApr 4, 2018

New study examines prescribing antipsychotic medication for children with autism

A new study by Swansea University found that children with intellectual disability or autism are more likely to be given antipsychotic medication, leading to higher rates of depression, injury, and hospitalization. The research also highlights the potential long-term health implications of treating behavioral problems in this way.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateApr 4, 2018

An international study is the first large survey on epilepsy

A large international study used neuroimaging techniques to analyze the brains of over 3,800 volunteers with different types of epilepsy. The study found that all four epilepsy subgroups displayed atrophy in sensitive-motor cortex and frontal lobe regions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBrain·DateApr 4, 2018

Smart ink adds new dimensions to 3-D printing

Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a smart ink that allows for the creation of shape-changing and color-shifting objects through 3D printing. The innovation uses intelligent molecular systems to transform the structure and function of the printed material.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 4, 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.

Healthy red blood cells owe their shape to muscle-like structures

Researchers found that a protein called myosin IIA contracts to give red blood cells their distinctive dimpled shape, shedding light on sickle cell diseases and other disorders. The discovery could lead to new treatments for conditions where red blood cells are deformed.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2018

Making headway in infant leukemia research

Researchers at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg have identified a new molecular cause of aggressive infant leukemia in children. The study found that changes in genes in white blood cells disrupt cell growth control, leading to the production of abnormal proteins that facilitate leukaemia.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalBlood·DateApr 4, 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.

How live vaccines enhance the body's immune response

Researchers discovered a new mechanism by which live vaccines induce immunity through TLR8 recognition. This triggers protective immune responses and improves vaccine safety and efficacy. The study's findings have the potential to develop new vaccines combining the benefits of live and modern subunit vaccines.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 4, 2018

Frequency of skin cancer screening among indoor tanners

A study of 30,352 US adults found that indoor tanning is associated with a higher risk of melanoma and keratinocyte skin cancers. The results highlight the need for regular skin cancer screening among indoor tanners, who are at increased risk due to their exposure to UV radiation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateApr 4, 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.

Childhood exposure to flame retardant chemicals declines following phase-out

Research reveals a decline in blood levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in children following the phase-out of these toxic chemicals. However, PBDEs were still detected in nearly all child blood samples, suggesting ongoing exposure to flame retardants.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateApr 4, 2018

Who's smarter in the classroom -- men or women?

A new ASU study reveals that students' perceptions of their own intelligence are influenced by gender, with women underestimating their abilities compared to men. This perception gap may lead to female students choosing not to continue in science due to self-doubt.

SourceArizona State University·JournalAJP Advances in Physiology Education·DateApr 4, 2018

Captain Scott's Discovery expedition offers climate change insight 100 years on

Scientists have analyzed 100-year-old samples of cyanobacteria from Captain Scott's Discovery expedition, providing a baseline for levels of cyanotoxins in Antarctic freshwater. The discovery enables researchers to study the effects of climate change on blue-green algae and their toxins in Antarctica.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalEuropean Journal of Phycology·DateApr 4, 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.

'Frogs' and 'mushrooms' bubble up in quantum fluids

Researchers used a supercomputer to simulate the mixing of two magnetically polarized Bose-Einstein condensates, producing exotic shapes that resemble ink blot tests. The study offers clues to phenomena seen in actual experiments and may have implications for ultra-fast computing and classical-quantum fluid connections.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review A·DateApr 4, 2018

One in 3 older patients die following emergency department intubation

A nationwide analysis of over 41,000 older patients found that one-third died in the hospital after receiving intubation. The study highlights the need for informed decision-making about emergency intubation for elderly patients and their families.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 4, 2018

Expanding support for Ethiopia's malaria control efforts

ICAP has partnered with Ethiopia since 2005, providing critical support in combating malaria. The new five-year project aims to strengthen malaria diagnosis and treatment services, with an eye on long-term elimination of the disease.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateApr 4, 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.

Street dogs to benefit from app that keeps canine health on track

A new smartphone app developed by animal welfare experts will support vital work in clinics caring for stray dogs worldwide. The app enables staff to track the wellbeing of dogs during catch-neuter-return processes, spotting signs of distress and developing strategies to improve care.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateApr 4, 2018

Organic fertilizers are an overlooked source of microplastic pollution

A new study reveals that organic fertilizers from biowaste fermentation contain microplastic particles, which enter the terrestrial environment and may end up in human food. The amount of microplastic particles differs based on pre-treatment methods and plant type.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 4, 2018

Personal outreach to landowners is vital to conservation program success

New research from Virginia Tech shows that personal outreach to landowners is vital to the success of conservation programs. Landowners who accompanied conservation biologists on site visits had higher trust in the agency and better perceptions of program outcomes. The study highlights the importance of face-to-face interactions in sha...

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 4, 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.

Anemia: When cells fail to produce enough protein factories

A recent study published in Cell reveals that disruptions in blood cell production can lead to anemia, specifically Diamond-Blackfan anemia. The research found that reduced ribosome levels and impaired translation processes contribute to the disorder's development.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalCell·DateApr 4, 2018

Diabetes awareness 'major concern' for UK Asians

A recent study found that South Asian diabetics in the UK face cultural and social barriers to improved awareness and self-help, including language difficulties, dietary knowledge gaps, and social pressures. The research highlights the need for ethnically-tailored programs and solutions tailored to different demographics.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEthnicity and Health·DateApr 4, 2018

Shaping behavior, not changing minds, more effective in boosting vaccination rates

A comprehensive review of scientific literature shows that directly facilitating vaccination and reducing barriers are key to increasing immunization rates. Interventions such as reminders, prompts, and presumptive announcements can lead to higher vaccination uptake.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateApr 4, 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.

The clinical and experimental research on the treatment of endometriosis with thiostrepton

Researchers studied thiostrepton's effects on endometriosis using an endometriotic rat model. Thiostrepton, a FOXM1 inhibitor, reduced expression of key proteins in endometriotic lesions. This suggests thiostrepton may inhibit endometriosis growth by decreasing FOXM1 expression and exerting a pro-apoptotic effect.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalAnti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry·DateApr 4, 2018

Avoid south-facing birdhouses -- for the nestlings' sake

Baby birds can regulate their body temperature despite hot nest box temperatures, but this comes at a cost: reduced growth. Researchers recommend placing nest boxes in shaded areas to minimize the impact of heat on nestlings.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·DateApr 4, 2018

Freezing breakthrough offers hope for African wild dogs

Researchers at James Cook University have successfully developed a sperm freezing technique for African wild dogs, allowing for genetic diversity to be introduced without disrupting pack hierarchy. The technique has the potential to assist outbreeding efforts and maximize population management.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalCryobiology·DateApr 4, 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.

Tourniquet practice adopted from the military saves lives and limbs in civilians

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that tourniquet use improves survival rates for civilian trauma victims with vascular injuries of the arms or legs. The study involved 1,026 patients and showed that those who received a tourniquet had significantly lower mortality rates than those who did not.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 4, 2018

Updated ASTRO guideline for palliative lung RT recommends concurrent chemo for some stage III pts

The American Society for Radiation Oncology updates its clinical guideline to recommend concurrent chemotherapy for certain patients with incurable stage III non-small cell lung cancer, improving quality of life and alleviating symptoms. The new guideline also provides recommendations for delivery and dosing of radiation therapy.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateApr 4, 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 'NanoZymes' use light to kill bacteria

Researchers at RMIT University have developed artificial enzymes called NanoZymes that can be triggered by light to kill bacteria. The technology has the potential to create self-cleaning surfaces in hospitals and toilets.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateApr 4, 2018

Algae, impurities darken Greenland ice sheet and intensify melting

A new study reveals that algae and impurities on the Greenland ice sheet's surface are causing it to darken, leading to accelerated melting. The Dark Zone, a 400km-wide region, is found to be covered in dust and black carbon that provide nutrition for dark-colored algae.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 4, 2018

Facilitating coral restoration

Researchers advocate for harnessing dynamic ecological forces to facilitate coral reef ecosystem recovery. By controlling factors like coral density and site selection, restoration practitioners can maximize growth rates and minimize mortality, promoting positive feedback processes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 4, 2018

How does HIV escape cellular booby traps?

Researchers at Kyoto University found that the Vpu protein in HIV allows it to overcome human tetherin, enabling efficient virus replication. Restoring normal levels of tetherin can suppress virus replication.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 4, 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.

Increase of plant species on mountain tops is accelerating with global warming

A study found that the number of plant species on European mountain peaks increased by five times more than during the period 1957-66, and is accelerating due to global warming. The researchers believe that some specialized species will be outcompeted as warmer climates spread, but local conditions and microclimates play a role.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2018

Self-healing metal oxides could protect against corrosion

A team of researchers found that an ultrathin layer of aluminum oxide can flow like a liquid, filling cracks and gaps as they form. This discovery could provide a protective barrier to prevent further oxidation and corrosion in metals, particularly in applications such as fuel-cell cars and nuclear power plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 4, 2018

New underwater geolocation technique takes cues from nature

Researchers developed a new underwater geolocation technique that utilizes polarisation sensors to determine the sun's position in the sky and navigate accurately. This method enables long-distance navigation with greater accuracy than current techniques, such as GPS, which only work up to 20 centimeters below the ocean's surface.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 4, 2018

What makes us truly happy and healthy?

The study will assess well-being across physical health, emotional health, purpose, character strengths, social connectedness, and financial security. The collaboration aims to advance scientific understanding of what it means to be truly healthy and transform the field of well-being research.

SourceHarvard University·DateApr 3, 2018

Protein derived from parasite has potential to alleviate debilitating disease

A novel protein derived from a parasite has been identified as a therapeutic molecule to reduce bleeding and pain associated with chemotherapy-induced hemorrhagic cystitis. The protein, IPSE, was found to be equally potent as the current standard of care in suppressing bladder hemorrhaging and pain.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 3, 2018
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.

Fewer recalls associated with higher rates of interval breast cancers

A new study finds that establishing a minimum recall rate for breast cancer screening programs can help balance the risk of missing invasive cancers and the cost of additional testing. The study analyzed data from the UK Breast Cancer Service Screening Program, finding that lower recall rates correlate with higher interval cancer rates.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 3, 2018