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Science News Archive August 2018


Page 16 of 41

New wave of complex street drugs puzzles emergency doctors

A new report highlights the complexity of detecting and treating patients at hospital emergency departments for severe drug-related events. The study found that most patients tested positive for multiple substances, with some containing as many as six, complicating overdose diagnosis.

Lower-risk malaria regions are breeding grounds for drug-resistant strains

A new study reveals that lower-risk malaria regions are breeding grounds for drug-resistant strains of the Plasmodium falciparum parasite. The research suggests that emerging resistant strains spread rapidly in areas with high transmission rates, making it crucial to tailor malaria response strategies for local conditions.

Researchers target protein that protects bacteria's DNA 'recipes'

Scientists have discovered the unique characteristics of the Dps protein, which compacts bacterial DNA to protect it from damage. Despite compacting the DNA, the expression of genes remains unchanged. The study suggests that Dps may act as a shield to protect DNA while allowing bacteria to express genes necessary for survival.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

CasPER -- a new method for diversification of enzymes

A new study introduces CasPER, a CRISPR/Cas9 method that diversifies enzymes without additional engineering. It enables the efficient integration of large DNA fragments, allowing for hundreds of thousands of enzyme variants to be generated.

Enigmatic African fossils rewrite story of when lemurs got to Madagascar

Researchers re-examined ancient Propotto leakeyi fossil and found it was an early relative of the aye-aye, challenging the long-held view that lemurs descended from a single wave to Madagascar. The study proposes two lineages split in Africa before coming to Madagascar, suggesting a more complex evolutionary history.

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.

A switch to turn fragrances on and off

Scientists at Salk Institute and Purdue University discovered a key to mass-producing beneficial plant compounds, including terpenoids used in fragrances, flavorings, biofuels, and pharmaceuticals. They found that plants have an

This tiny particle might change millions of lives

Researchers have developed a new nanoparticle that can target kidney cells and deliver medication directly to the site of the disease, potentially reducing side effects. This innovation may prove critical in addressing chronic kidney disease, which affects one in three Americans.

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.

Wireless communication breaks through water-air barrier

Researchers at MIT Media Lab have developed a system called TARF that uses underwater sonar signals to transmit data to airborne receivers, breaking through the water-air barrier. The system consists of an underwater acoustic transmitter and a highly sensitive receiver that decodes the vibrations caused by the sonar signal.

A new way to target high rates of obesity

Researchers at University of New South Wales developed a novel drug targeting Ceramide Synthase enzymes linked to insulin resistance. The drug successfully prevented mice from depositing and storing fat by increasing their ability to burn fat.

Improved thermal-shock resistance in industrial ceramics

A new coating has been shown to reduce heat transfer and alleviate tensile stresses in ceramic materials, improving their thermal-shock behavior. The coating creates a vapor film that insulates the material from rapid temperature changes.

$3 million NIH grant will fund genetic hearing loss research

The NIH grant will support research on biological treatments and clinical diagnosis for patients with hearing loss, a condition affecting over 28 million Americans. Xue Zhong Liu's team will expand a genomic database and assess the impact of genomic testing on patients.

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.

Stars memorize rebirth of our home galaxy

Calculations by Masafumi Noguchi confirm two-stage formation of Milky Way stars, with iron-rich stars forming after a gap in star birth. This discovery sheds light on the galaxy's dramatic history and provides insights into its formation.

Ultrasound could improve early detection of vascular diseases

Researchers at the University of Leicester conducted longitudinal ultrasound studies on mice with vascular disease to track disease progression. The study showed that ultrasound imaging can detect early changes in blood vessel function that may serve as a marker for detection of disease.

Southern California coast emerges as a toxic algae hot spot

Researchers at USC have found that the Southern California coast has some of the world's highest concentrations of domoic acid, a neurotoxin produced by microscopic algae. The study suggests that man-made sources of nutrients and environmental conditions contribute to the formation of algal blooms.

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.

Better genome editing

UCSB researchers have developed a highly efficient genome editing method that offers complete spatiotemporal control, allowing users to target specific cells or regions within the cell. This approach enables precise and transient gene editing with minimal long-term effects on DNA.

Orphaned elephants have a tougher social life

A new study suggests that orphaned female elephants receive more aggression from other elephants than non-orphans, making their social lives tougher. Orphans rebuild their relationships but have reduced interaction with adult females, affecting access to resources and long-term survival.

UC study: Exposure to tobacco smoke significantly impacts teen health

A recent University of Cincinnati study found that even brief exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to respiratory problems and increased absenteeism among teens. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to educate parents and family members on preventing secondhand smoke exposure and treating tobacco use.

Preparing for chemical attacks with improved computer models

University of Texas at San Antonio researchers have developed improved computer models to predict the dispersal of chemical plumes, enabling more accurate evacuations. The models can simulate real-world conditions despite limited information, providing critical insights into the spread of toxic agents like sarin gas.

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.

OU to lead US stream drying study with $3 million in NSF grants

A University of Oklahoma professor will lead a coordinated research project studying the ecology of US streams that dry, with funding from the National Science Foundation. The study aims to understand how stream drying affects aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity across different climates.

Stressed, toxic, zombie cells seen for 1st time in Alzheimer's

A type of cellular stress known as senescence has been linked to Alzheimer's disease and other human brain diseases. Researchers identified senescent cells in postmortem tissue from Alzheimer's patients and found them in another brain disease, progressive supranuclear palsy.

Getting in Shape

Scientists have developed a novel approach to synthesize highly crystalline triazine frameworks, which demonstrate exceptional thermal stability and high photocatalytic efficiency. This method could be the starting point for industrial production of these frameworks.

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.

Study shows children with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis can be treated

A large international systematic review found that 78% of children with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis had successful treatment outcomes when treated with second-line MDR-TB drugs. The study highlights the need for HIV treatment in these children and the importance of aggressive solutions to address malnutrition.

Untangling the secret of spider webs' superpower

A UMass Lowell researcher is translating the toughness of spider silks to develop high-performance synthetic biomaterials. The project aims to understand what makes Darwin's bark spider dragline silk ultra-tough and its potential applications in improving helmets, body armor, medical devices, sports gear, and more.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Antipsychotic use in older adults after heart surgery

A recent study found that antipsychotic medications are not proven to be effective for treating delirium in older adults after heart surgery, and may even cause heart rhythm problems and other dangerous side effects. The study suggests that the use of these medications is excessive and warrants more appropriate prescribing practices.

How the brain suppresses the act of revenge

A UNIGE team discovered which brain zones are activated in anger and how the brain suppresses the act of revenge. The prefrontal dorsolateral cortex (DLPFC) plays a key role in regulating emotions, with higher activity during provocation phases leading to less punishment against unfair players.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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.

New methods developed for designing dynamic object controllers

Russian scientists have solved multicriteria problems of dynamic object control under uncertainty of external effects, enhancing the efficiency of controlling rotor motion in active magnetic bearings. The new methods utilize feedback control laws to minimize disturbance quenching levels and provide optimal solutions.

Engineers, urban designers boost efforts to protect fragile infrastructure

Researchers at NYIT have developed a 3D data modeling tool called IN-SOURCE to simulate and visualize the impact of environmental conditions on FEW distribution networks and urban infrastructure. The tool aims to help policymakers make informed decisions about infrastructure investments and mitigate the effects of climate change.

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.

Illinois study pioneers humane feline research facility

Researchers at the University of Illinois created a unique study environment for cats to advance science and test an injectable contraceptive vaccine. The hybrid facility, dual-licensed as a USDA research facility and animal shelter, provided enriching conditions with furniture, toys, and outdoor enclosure.

Switching DNA and RNA on and off

Scientists find that DNA and RNA have memory properties, with two stable states, making them suitable for storing data. The minimum electric field required for switching is inversely proportional to the ratio of topological polar surface area to total surface area.

Ecosystems are getting greener in the Arctic

Researchers have developed a new approach to predict how plants in Arctic regions respond to warming, revealing that 16% of vegetated land is no longer temperature-limited today. By the year 2100, only 20% of vegetation will be limited by cold conditions.

Picture this: Camera with no lens

Researchers created a lensless camera by connecting a digital sensor to a plexiglass window, which acts as a makeshift lens. The system can capture recognizable images with computer algorithms decoding the pixelated data. This innovation opens up possibilities for various applications, including augmented reality goggles and biometric ...

Nanobot pumps destroy nerve agents

Researchers create nanobot pumps that neutralize nerve agents and administer antidotes, powered by the enzyme's chemical energy. The technology has applications in medicine, manufacturing, robotics, and fluidics, and could be used to treat diseases like diabetes and deliver targeted treatments.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A materials scientist's dream come true

Scientists have successfully manipulated individual dislocations in bilayer graphene using advanced electron microscopy and nanoscale robot arms. This breakthrough confirms long-standing theories of defect interactions and opens up new possibilities for studying plasticity.

UMBC teams up with Chesapeake Conservancy to create detailed stream maps

The University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) has partnered with the Chesapeake Conservancy to develop a more accurate map of the region's waterways using novel techniques. This project aims to prioritize restoration efforts and enhance enforcement of environmental laws in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

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.

FDA research informs smokeless tobacco prevention messaging for at-risk youth

Recent FDA research identified effective health messaging strategies for rural, non-Hispanic White males aged 12-17 years who are at risk of initiating or experimenting with smokeless tobacco. The findings suggest that authenticity and straightforward facts about the health consequences of SLT use resonate well with this audience.

Two consumer baby monitors show worrisome results in measuring vital signs

Researchers tested two commercially available baby monitors, finding that one detected low oxygen levels inconsistently while the other falsely displayed low pulse rates. These alarming results highlight the need for regulation of these products to prevent unnecessary anxiety and medical interventions in healthy infants.

First in-depth profile of CAR T-cell signals suggests how to improve immunotherapy

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center compared two common CAR designs in lab models and found that the CD28 CAR showed faster and stronger activity, while the 4-1BB CAR was more effective in clearing cancer cells. The study provides insights into how to improve immunotherapy by designing future generations of CAR T-cell therapies.