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Science News Archive August 2018 - Page 18


Page 18 of 41

Laughing gas may have helped warm early Earth and given breath to life

A new study suggests that nitrous oxide, a powerful greenhouse gas, played a significant role in keeping early Earth warm. The research found that nitrous oxide could have reached ten times today's levels, providing an extra boost of global warming under the Faint Young Sun Paradox.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalGeobiology·DateAug 20, 2018

Sex in plants requires thrust

A team of researchers measured the force exerted by plant sperm cells as they navigate female flower tissues using microfluidic technology. The study found that the cellular pressure driving invasion corresponds to that of a car tire, and the pollen tubes adapt their growth pattern in response to physical resistance.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateAug 20, 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.

Safeway Foundation grant awarded to the National Foundation for Cancer Research

The National Foundation for Cancer Research has received a $35,000 grant from Safeway Foundation to expand its Cancer Patient Navigation Hotline services. The hotline provides guidance and support to patients and their families at no cost, aiming to equip users with knowledge enabling better decisions about their cancer care.

SourceNational Foundation for Cancer Research·DateAug 20, 2018

Study finds racial disparities in prescribing opioids for chronic pain

A recent study by Yale researchers found that black patients are more likely to be tested for illicit drug use after starting opioids for chronic pain and have their prescriptions discontinued. The study highlights the need for a universal approach to monitoring patients prescribed opioids, particularly in addressing racial disparities.

SourceYale University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateAug 20, 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.

Global surgeons provide value through innovation, professionalism, and education

A new position paper from the Association of Academic Surgeons and others advocates for supporting global surgeons in academic health centers. The authors argue that global surgeons can bring strategic value to AHCs with their research experience, education, and health equity work.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateAug 20, 2018

Your office may be affecting your health

Research led by the University of Arizona found that workers in open bench seating had lower physiological stress during after-work hours and were more physically active at the office. This study provides objective measurements to inform policies and practices that affect the health and well-being of millions of office workers worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateAug 20, 2018

Stone tools reveal modern human-like gripping capabilities 500,000 years ago

A study by the University of Kent demonstrates that ancient humans were able to produce advanced stone tools, such as spear points, only after evolving stronger grips. The research uses sensors attached to skilled flint knappers' hands to identify platform preparation behaviors, which required forceful precision grips.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 20, 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.

A GPS for inside your body

ReMix uses wireless signals to pinpoint the location of ingestible implants inside the body with centimeter-level accuracy. This technology has the potential to improve proton therapy cancer treatment by allowing doctors to track tumors in real-time and deliver targeted radiation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateAug 20, 2018

Stool proteins to predict inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers have identified 50 stool proteins that are consistently elevated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. These biomarkers could help diagnose the condition earlier and more accurately, allowing for quicker treatment. The findings also suggest a potential self-care kit for monitoring the disease.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 20, 2018

Lehigh research team to investigate a 'Google for research data'

A Lehigh research team is developing a 'Google for research data' that can assist scientists in locating datasets across various disciplines. The team aims to create a domain-agnostic search engine that utilizes user-centric methods to develop dataset search tools and novel indexing techniques.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 20, 2018

Synthetic DNA-based enzymes

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have developed semi-synthetic enzyme systems using DNA, which can replace protein cofactors. This innovation aims to create more stable biocatalysts that can be used in industry for climate protection and economic gain.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Reviews Chemistry·DateAug 20, 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.

Maple leaf extract could nip skin wrinkles in the bud

Researchers find that glucitol-core-containing gallotannins from red maple leaves can block elastase activity, maintaining skin elasticity. The findings could lead to the development of plant-based skincare products and create new economic opportunities for farmers in eastern North America.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018

Militarization of police fails to enhance safety, may harm police reputation

A study by Jonathan Mummolo found that militarized policing is ineffective in decreasing crime and protecting police officers, and may actually weaken the public's image of law enforcement. The study also reveals that SWAT teams are more often deployed in communities of color.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 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.

Talking to an android

Researchers from Kyoto University and ATR upgraded the interaction system for conversational android ERICA, giving her more dynamic speaking skills. The team focused on developing a system for 'attentive listening', allowing ERICA to engage in fluid dialogue with human subjects.

SourceKyoto University·DateAug 20, 2018

Techniques for reducing sugar content in dairy products show promise

Researchers review options to reduce sugar in ice cream, yogurt, and flavored milk without sacrificing flavor, finding sweetener blends and sugar reduction techniques promising. Techniques like sorbitol and sucralose, erythritol, and lactitol show potential for reducing sugar content, improving taste and texture.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateAug 20, 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.

Poor sleep + type 2 diabetes = Slower wound healing

A new study found that overweight mice with Type 2 diabetes who don't sleep well need more time to heal their wounds compared to healthy mice. The research suggests that sleep plays a crucial role in wound healing among obese mice with Type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalSLEEP·DateAug 20, 2018

New research reveals how the body clock controls inflammation

Researchers at RCSI and Trinity College Dublin have discovered how the body clock regulates inflammatory response in macrophages, a key immune cell. This study may lead to targeted treatments at specific times of the day to alleviate excess inflammation in conditions like asthma, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease.

SourceRCSI·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Light from ancient quasars helps confirm quantum entanglement

Researchers used light from distant quasars to determine measurements on pairs of entangled photons, finding correlations that exceeded Bell's original limit for a classically based mechanism. This strengthens the case for quantum entanglement and restricts options for the freedom-of-choice loophole.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 20, 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.

New medical specialty needed to manage growing number of Americans with diabetes

Diabetologists are filling a crucial gap in patient care, but their growth is hindered by resistance from payers and colleagues. The new medical specialty aims to provide comprehensive diabetes management, but challenges persist due to reimbursement issues and varying opinions on scope of practice.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateAug 20, 2018

What's behind the retreating kelps and expanding corals?

A recent study by Hokkaido University reveals that climate warming, ocean currents, and deforestation by invasive fish are driving the expansion of tropical corals into temperate zones in Japan. This shift is linked to increased grazing by herbivorous fish, leading to a decline in macroalgae populations.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2018

E-cigarettes can damage DNA

Researchers found that e-cigarette users experience increased DNA damage related to acrolein exposure, which could increase their cancer risk. The study suggests that vaping may modify the genetic material in oral cells, highlighting the need for further research on the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 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.

Two molecules offer great potential to combat cancer and chronic infections

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discovered how to improve the survival of CD8 T cells, which can combat tumors and chronic infections. The study found that deleting two specific molecules enhances the survival of effector cells and yields more protective memory cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2018

Helping surgical patients taper off opioids safely and successfully

A study at Toronto General Hospital found that nearly half of patients who did not take opioids before surgery were able to wean off completely. The Transitional Pain Program uses non-opioid medications, psychological techniques, and exercise prescriptions to help patients manage pain. Patients who were on high doses of opioids before ...

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalCanadian Journal of Pain·DateAug 20, 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.

Beauty is simpler, and less special, than we realize

A new analysis by NYU psychologists reveals that beauty may be an intense pleasure rather than a special experience. The study, which spans thousands of years and multiple disciplines, finds that certain features like symmetry and roundness make things more beautiful on average.

SourceNew York University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 20, 2018

A new generation of artificial retinas based on 2D materials

Scientists developed a flexible, high-density artificial retina using 2D materials that mimics the human eye. The device has shown promising results in laboratory and animal studies, and could potentially restore sight to millions of people with retinal diseases.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018

Bioengineered tooth replacement opens doors to new therapies

Researchers have developed bioengineered tooth buds that exhibit features of natural teeth, paving the way for a promising tooth replacement therapy. The new method uses postnatal dental cells to create bioengineered tooth buds with innervation, eliminating the need for immunosuppressors.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateAug 20, 2018

Kids stress over public acts of discrimination, USC study finds

A USC study found that kids stressed over public acts of discrimination show increased behavioral problems, including depression and substance use. The study tracked 2,572 11th-grade students in L.A. County and found a significant association between concern about discrimination and adverse behavioral outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 20, 2018

Research reveals link between warming and lobster disease

The study found that warmer temperatures and earlier springs lead to an increase in epizootic shell disease, which can cause a 70% mortality rate in infected lobsters. Disease prevalence doubles during early-molting years and correlates strongly with summer heat.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·DateAug 20, 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.

Consuming milk at breakfast lowers blood glucose throughout the day

A recent study found that consuming milk at breakfast with high-protein content reduces postprandial blood glucose concentration and increases feelings of satiety. This effect is more pronounced when whey protein is present, which can aid in slower digestion of carbohydrates and maintain lower blood sugar levels.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateAug 20, 2018

Love vine sucks life from wasps, leaving only mummies

Biologists at Rice University have discovered a new trophic interaction between love vines and gall-forming wasps. The study found that the vines attack tumor-like growths called galls made by the wasps, leaving behind mummified adult wasps.

SourceRice University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 20, 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.

Typhoon Soulik's large eye wide open on NASA satellite imagery

Typhoon Soulik's large eye was observed on NASA's Terra satellite imagery with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 115 mph and will maintain current strength for two days before weakening over the Korean peninsula.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 20, 2018

Colorado study shows how to make (and destroy) a metastatic cancer cell

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study reveals that inhibiting the action of lysosomes can efficiently kill metastatic cancer cells. Researchers found that the level of a protein called ID4 predicts which cancer patients will benefit most from treatment with chloroquine.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2018

Calculating a new design

A research collaboration led by Pittsburgh University's Swanson School of Engineering received a $750,000 Department of Energy grant to develop innovative technologies for fossil energy power systems. The team will utilize additive manufacturing and integrated computational materials engineering to design superior alloy components.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateAug 20, 2018

Areas with more alcohol vendors have higher hospital admission rates

A new study from the University of Sheffield found that areas with a high density of alcohol outlets have higher drink-related hospital admission rates. The places in England with the most pubs, bars, and nightclubs had a 13% higher admission rate for acute conditions caused by alcohol.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalAddiction·DateAug 20, 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.

Quantum leap for Einstein's scientific principle

Physicists have been debating whether Einstein's equivalence principle extends to the quantum world. A University of Queensland researcher and her team found that it does, with implications for our understanding of gravity and mass in quantum physics.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 20, 2018

Making light work of quantum computing

A University of Queensland researcher led an international study to develop a programmable machine that can accomplish various tasks using reprogrammed settings, resulting in exponential changes.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 20, 2018