Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 5


Page 5 of 42

The complicated biology of garlic

Researchers argue that garlic's unique flavor comes from sulfur compounds, which are biologically active within mammalian cells. However, the complexity of preparing garlic affects which sulfur compounds are consumed, leading to inconsistent results in human intervention studies.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Pharmacological Sciences·DateApr 26, 2018

Curiosity is key to early childhood success in math and reading

A study found that curiosity is a small but significant contributor to academic achievement in kindergarten-age children. Children from lower socio-economic backgrounds may particularly benefit from fostering their curiosity as an alternative intervention strategy.

SourceSpringer·JournalPediatric Research·DateApr 26, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Studies find more patients admitted to hospitals with cardiac conditions in winter months

Researchers found a significant increase in hospitalizations for aortic dissection and ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarctions (STEMI) during winter months. The studies, presented at the SCAI 2018 Scientific Sessions, used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database to analyze seasonal variations in cardiac-related hospitalizations.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 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.

Want to remember your dreams? Try taking vitamin B6

Research from the University of Adelaide found that high-dose vitamin B6 supplements improved dream recall in participants. The study revealed no effects on vividness, bizarreness, or sleep patterns, suggesting a potential role for vitamin B6 in lucid dreaming and controlling dreams.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPerceptual and Motor Skills·DateApr 26, 2018

Noninvasive brain tumor biopsy on the horizon

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking technique to detect tumor biomarkers in brain tumors through a simple blood test, potentially eliminating the need for surgical biopsies. The method uses focused ultrasound and tiny bubbles to release tumor-specific biomarkers into the bloodstream.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 2018

Community efforts to prevent teen problems have lasting benefits

Researchers found that communities using a coordinated approach to prevention were more likely to reduce substance use, violence, and other antisocial behaviors in young adults. The study, conducted among 4,400 youth participants, showed significant long-term effects of Communities That Care (CTC) programs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 26, 2018

What's the best way to accelerate: Muscles or springs?

Researchers identified principles for efficient mechanical systems that generate and amplify kinetic energy. Shorter latch release times amplify power, while longer durations eliminate it, explaining why small spring-based systems are more effective.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 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.

Researchers assassinate disease-causing bacteria with virus cocktail

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have successfully targeted and killed E. coli using a cocktail of viruses, preserving the surrounding community of commensal bacteria in a simulated small intestinal microbiome. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment method for food-borne illnesses without the use of antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalGut Microbes·DateApr 26, 2018

Whale shark logs longest-recorded trans-Pacific migration

Researchers tracked a female whale shark's 20,142 km migration from eastern Pacific to western Indo-Pacific, the longest recorded migration. The study provides new insights into whale shark migration patterns and conservation efforts.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalMarine Biodiversity Records·DateApr 26, 2018

Diabetes UK commits £2.6 million to new research

Diabetes UK has committed £2.6 million to 19 new research projects investigating medieval remedies for foot ulcers, sleep disturbances as a predictor of Type 2 diabetes, and other forms of diabetes. The funding aims to reduce amputations, sepsis cases, and improve treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateApr 26, 2018

Searching for a nursing home and don't know where to turn?

A new USC study reveals that Yelp reviews of nursing homes tend to focus more on staff attitudes and responsiveness than government reviews. The study evaluated 264 Yelp reviews and grouped them into five categories, finding that nearly 53% of reviewers posted comments about staff attitude and caring.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 26, 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.

A simple method etches patterns at the atomic scale

Researchers at Penn State have developed a chemical-free method for etching nanoscale features on silicon wafers. The technique, called tribochemical reaction, uses a scanning probe microscope to remove single layers of atoms from the surface without damaging underlying layers.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2018

Study to explore whether cannabis compound eases severe symptoms of autism

A new study funded by a $4.7 million gift from the Ray and Tye Noorda Foundation aims to investigate the therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol for children with severe symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. The study will involve clinical assessments and basic research to better understand how CBD interacts with neural activity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateApr 26, 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.

Loss of brain synchrony may explain working memory limits, says study

Researchers found that brain regions break down communication when trying to retain too much information in working memory. The study suggests that the 'coupling' of brain waves among three key regions breaks down when visual working memory load becomes too much.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateApr 26, 2018

Who is using guns for suicide?

Research highlights gun suicides disproportionately affect older, married white men experiencing declining health. Financial stressors also play a role in younger age groups. Tailored interventions and gun ownership registry measures may help reduce mortality associated with gun suicides.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateApr 26, 2018

Discovery of new material is key step toward more powerful computing

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new inorganic compound that adopts a crystal structure capable of sustaining a quantum spin liquid state. This discovery is a key step toward the creation of next-generation supercomputers, which will solve complex problems efficiently and consume less energy.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 2018

Researchers identify 44 genomic variants associated with depression

A meta-analysis of over 135,000 people with major depression and 344,000 controls identified 44 genomic variants significantly associated with the condition. The study also found that major depression shares genetic links with schizophrenia, obesity, and sleep quality.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 26, 2018

Speeding up material discovery

Researchers have developed an algorithm that can discover and optimize thermoelectric materials in a matter of months, rather than years. The new method simplifies computational approaches for electron-phonon scattering, speeding up the process by about 10,000 times and reducing development time.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateApr 26, 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.

New study shows length of hospital stay impacts outcomes after TAVR procedure

A new study has found that patients who undergo TAVR procedure and stay in the hospital for more than 72 hours may be at risk of negative short and long-term outcomes. The study identified independent predictors of both early and delayed discharge, with delayed discharge associated with worse one-year outcomes.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 2018

Sub-sea rift spills secrets to seismic probe

A Rice University-led study has provided first clues about internal structure of the Galicia margin using a seismic probe. The data revealed seismic images of the S-reflector, a prominent detachment fault within the continent-ocean transition zone, which accommodated slipping along the zone.

SourceRice University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateApr 26, 2018

First-of-its-kind study associates obesity with poorer stroke outcomes in non-white patients

A recent study found that obesity contributes to poorer outcomes in non-white patients who have hemorrhagic strokes, with African-Americans being particularly vulnerable. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to address nutritional needs and reduce the burden of obesity on recovery following stroke.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalObesity Science & Practice·DateApr 26, 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.

New results from preserve clinical trial include data on patients who underwent PCI

The Preserve clinical trial has revealed significant benefits of oral acetylcysteine and sodium bicarbonate in reducing cardiovascular complications. Researchers analyzed data from a large cohort of high-risk patients who underwent PCI, demonstrating the efficacy of this treatment approach.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 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.

Improving mid-infrared imaging and sensing

The new approach uses flat, artificial material composed of nanostructured optical elements to control and detect mid-IR waves, enabling cheaper, flatter, and more efficient detectors for night vision, biomedical sensing, and free-space communication. The devices can transmit up to 80% of mid-IR light with high efficiency and are made ...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2018

Expanded registry data shows continued positive results for the mitraclip device

The MitraClip device has demonstrated improved echocardiogram measurements and six-minute walk test outcomes, with significant reductions in left ventricle volume and NYHA classification. The study also showed substantial improvement in quality of life outcomes for patients with mitral valve regurgitation.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 2018

BU study: Egyptian fruit bat genome yields clues to protection

A new study from Boston University has identified larger-than-expected families of genes related to the mammalian immune system in the Egyptian fruit bat. This finding may lead to a deeper understanding of virus transmission and better treatments for humans infected with deadly pathogens.

SourceBoston University·JournalCell·DateApr 26, 2018

VaxArray immunogenicity study published in Vaccine

A new study shows a predictive link between VaxArray-measured potency and vaccine-induced immunogenicity in mice. The study found strong correlations between VaxArray assays and serum levels of antibodies targeting influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase.

SourceInDevR, Inc.·JournalVaccine·DateApr 26, 2018

Probiotics useful in the fight against infection prevention

Two studies published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that multi-strain probiotics reduced CDI incidence rates by about two-thirds. Probiotics were especially effective among participants taking two or more antibiotics, suggesting a potential prevention tool for hospital settings.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 26, 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.

Upgrading the immune system to fight cancer

Researchers have developed a refined CAR-T therapy called SUPRA-CART that addresses the three major flaws of traditional CAR-T: target specificity, response strength, and adaptive capability. This new system allows for continuous alteration to target different types of cancer cells and can be deactivated in case of severe side effects.

SourceBoston University College of Engineering·JournalCell·DateApr 26, 2018

A polymer that puts plastic on a better path toward recyclability

Researchers have developed a family of synthetic polymers that can be repeatedly recycled with great efficiency. These new polymers overcome the challenges faced by existing biodegradable plastics and mechanical approaches to reusing plastic, offering a highly desirable chemical recycling method.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2018

Cancer drug helps treat tuberculosis by restoring leaky blood vessels

Researchers at Duke University have discovered that a cancer drug, Marimastat, can help treat tuberculosis by improving the structural integrity of leaky blood vessels in granulomas. This allows antibiotics to penetrate and attack the disease-causing bacteria more effectively, leading to improved treatment outcomes.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 26, 2018

Researchers simulate conditions inside 'super-Earths'

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University and Princeton University simulated the deep interiors of super-Earths using intense X-ray beams, revealing insight into their crystal structure. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding planetary architecture and may lead to breakthroughs in exoplanet research.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 26, 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.

Did eating dark chocolate improve vision?

Researchers found slight improvements in vision after eating dark chocolate, particularly in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. The effects of dark chocolate on vision remain unknown beyond the short-term, and further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 26, 2018

Army researcher uses math to uncover new chemistry

A U.S. Army Research Laboratory researcher has developed a mathematical approach to design chemical compounds, reducing complexity and leveraging machine learning. This method could lead to the discovery of new materials with unique properties.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalJournal of Mathematical Chemistry·DateApr 26, 2018

Rugosity and concentricity: In urban planning, look to edges, not just the core

Research suggests that cities like Portland and Copenhagen benefit from high-rugosity layouts, with diverse uses and green spaces supporting resilience and growth. By integrating farms and greenways, developers can accommodate more population while reducing the urban heat island effect and improving stormwater management.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalLand Use Policy·DateApr 26, 2018

Weighing single molecules with light

Researchers have developed a new method for weighing single molecules using light scattering, enabling the measurement of mass with high accuracy. This breakthrough has potential applications in fields such as protein-protein interactions, drug discovery, and point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2018

Study finds horses remember facial expressions of people they've seen before

A study by the Universities of Sussex and Portsmouth reveals that horses can read human facial expressions and remember specific individuals' emotional states. The research found that horses perceive people more negatively if they had previously seen them looking angry in a photograph, adapting their behavior accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 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.

Accepted or rejected? Uncovering how fate of B cell is determined

A team of Osaka University researchers identified a specific subset of B cells with higher affinity that preferentially commit to plasma cell fate. The study suggests that stable Tfh-GC B cell contacts are key for plasma cell-prone GC cell formation, providing valuable insights for vaccine development.

SourceOsaka University·JournalImmunity·DateApr 26, 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.

Seniors stick to fitness routines when they work out together

Older adults are more likely to adhere to a group exercise program when they work out with people their own age. A recent University of British Columbia study found that participants in age-targeted groups attended an average of 9.5 more classes than those in mixed-age groups.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalHealth Psychology·DateApr 26, 2018

New study addresses the role of health in climate lawsuits

A new analysis by George Washington University researchers finds that health concerns are cited in a minority of climate lawsuits but may have critical potential for protecting communities. The study suggests that including health benefits in climate litigation could catalyze effective policy-making.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 26, 2018

Obesity inhibits key cancer defense mechanism

Research reveals that obesity suppresses the epithelial defense against cancer, allowing malignant cells to remain and develop tumors. Aspirin treatment enhances this defense mechanism, suggesting a potential role in cancer prevention.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 26, 2018

How success breeds success in the sciences

A study of Dutch research grants reveals that winning an early-career grant leads to more research funding, awards, and prestigious academic appointments. The 'Matthew effect' erodes quality of scientific research due to projects being funded based on status rather than merit.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 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.