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Science News Archive August 2018 - Page 24


Page 24 of 41

New HIV therapy reduces virus, boosts immunity in drug-resistant patients

A new HIV therapy has been shown to reduce viral replication and increase immune cells in individuals with advanced, drug-resistant HIV infection. The study found that nearly half of patients experienced viral load suppression at six months, making it a promising option for those with multi-drug resistance.

SourceYale University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 15, 2018

Stern of World War II US destroyer discovered off remote Alaskan island

A NOAA-funded team of scientists from Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the University of Delaware discovered the missing 75-foot stern section of the USS Abner Read in 290 feet of water off Kiska Island. The finding sheds light on the little-known episode in WWII history where 71 US Navy sailors lost their lives.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateAug 15, 2018

Tongue microbiome research underscores importance of dental health

A large population-based study identified variations in the tongue microbiota among community-dwelling elderly adults in Japan, showing an association with tooth conditions. The study found that a specific group of commensal bacteria were more predominant in those with fewer teeth and dental caries.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·DateAug 15, 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.

Our perceived birth status can affect our adult relationships

Research found that people who believe they were unwanted or unplanned pregnancies tend to have more insecure relationship styles as adults. This perceived birth status affects attachment styles, leading to increased anxiety and avoidance in relationships. The study suggests that revealing such information can increase insecurities and...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateAug 15, 2018

Play-Doh helps plant research

Researchers at the University of Delaware discovered that plants emit scent cues when under attack by insects, recruiting birds to provide a food source while defending crops. The study used Play-Doh larvae and dispensers to replicate plant volatiles, finding that birds were attracted to these cues more strongly than to a control measure.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateAug 15, 2018

Students' social skills flourish best in groups with similar skill levels

Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that grouping children by similar social abilities, rather than disability or disorder, leads to better behavior outcomes. This approach allows peers to learn from and support each other in improving their social skills.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSchool Psychology Quarterly·DateAug 15, 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.

Better statistical methods to understand gene interactions leading to cancer development

Researchers have developed a novel statistical method called AA9int to evaluate gene-to-gene interactions associated with cancer and other complex diseases. This approach identifies combinations of genetic variants for predicting cancer risk and prognosis, increasing our understanding of the biological mechanisms of cancer development.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalBioinformatics·DateAug 15, 2018

NASA sees 14th Eastern Pacific Tropical Depression form

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite detected Tropical Depression 14E in the Eastern Pacific Ocean on August 14. The depression is moving west at 14 mph and is expected to become a tropical storm over the next few days, with gradual strengthening forecast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 15, 2018

My counterpart determines my behavior

A social-psychological study at Goethe University Frankfurt reveals that while social class influences behavior, the communication situation plays a more significant role in shaping behavior towards counterparts from different social classes. The study found that individuals exhibit solidarity with those from lower social classes and a...

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateAug 15, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study of greater Yellowstone pronghorn finds highway crossing structures a conservation success

A recent study found that installing wildlife crossing structures over highways has increased the success rate of pronghorn crossings, reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions by 70 percent. Pronghorn adapted to using these structures within four years, increasing their crossing success rates and decreasing stress levels.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateAug 15, 2018

Tufts researchers receive award to integrate genomic sequencing into neonatal care

The study will recruit 400 newborns with a wide variety of possible genetic disorders, comparing whole genome sequencing to targeted genomic sequencing for accuracy and effectiveness. The researchers aim to determine if the targeted panel can be safely integrated into newborn care, eliminating ethical dilemmas and saving healthcare costs.

SourceTufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute·DateAug 15, 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.

The secret behind cell revival revealed

Researchers have identified 85 genes essential for fission yeast cells to maintain their ability to divide after being starved of nitrogen. The study sheds light on the genetic network required for resting cells like cancer stem cells to reactivate and has potential applications in developing new therapies to treat cancer. This discove...

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 15, 2018

Logging permit fraud threatens timber species in Brazilian Amazon

A new study found widespread logging permit fraud in the Brazilian Amazon, which is undercutting conservation efforts and threatening high-value timber species like ipe. The researchers discovered a deliberate overestimation bias of these species, indicating corruption or simple misidentification.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 15, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

NUS study: RUNX proteins act as regulators in DNA repair

Researchers found that RUNX proteins bind to DNA damage sites and co-regulate the recruitment of DNA repair protein FANCD2. This discovery could lead to the development of synthetic-lethal approaches to attack RUNX-deficient cancers, including solid tumours of the breast and leukemia.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 15, 2018

Mount Sinai researchers discover how to restore vision using retinal stem cells

Researchers at Mount Sinai have successfully restored vision in mice by activating retinal stem cells, which could lead to treatments for patients with blinding diseases. The study found that new rod photoreceptor cells were generated and integrated into the existing retinal structure, restoring function of the visual pathway.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 15, 2018

Patient motivations behind cosmetic procedures

The study discovered that patients' primary motivations behind cosmetic procedures are physical health, psychological well-being, and aesthetic appearance. Patients primarily pursue these procedures to look younger, fresher, and more confident.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 15, 2018

The science behind rooting for the home team

A review by Yale psychologist Yarrow Dunham suggests that ingroup bias is a natural phenomenon driven by membership in a social group, explaining why people favor their own group over others. This bias may have evolved to boost group living and social learning.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateAug 14, 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.

Fishing quotas upended by nuclear DNA analysis

A study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that nuclear DNA analysis can highlight genetic differences between sardine populations, contradicting previous conclusions based on mitochondrial DNA analysis. This new understanding has significant implications for fisheries management and conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 14, 2018

OU study shows effects of climate warming in tallgrass prairie ecosystem

A new OU study shows that climate warming accelerates temporal turnover rates of soil bacterial and fungal communities, affecting ecosystem predictability. The research finds divergent succession of microbial communities under climate warming, with reduced stochasticity and dynamic drivers.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 14, 2018

Drug repurposing study sheds light on heart disease risk

A new drug repurposing study has identified two commonly prescribed medications that may increase the risk of heart disease. Hydroxychloroquine, an anti-rheumatic drug, was found to be associated with lower rates of coronary artery disease, while carbamazepine, a medication for epilepsy and neuropathic pain, may increase the risk.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 14, 2018

Tiny helpers that clean cells

Researchers have identified three known SNAREs and a new protein Ykt6 as essential for the fusion of autophagosomes with vacuoles, allowing for efficient cellular waste recycling. This breakthrough study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying autophagy, a vital process in maintaining cellular homeostasis.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateAug 14, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cancer-fighting drugs also help plants fight disease

Researchers at Washington State University discovered that cancer-fighting drugs can slow or stop fungal infections in plants by activating genes used to defend against pathogens. The study showed two different results from the applications of DNA-specific drugs on pea tissue, with differing mechanisms of action.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 14, 2018

Magnetic gene in fish may someday help those with epilepsy, Parkinson's

Scientists at Michigan State University have discovered a navigational gene in glass catfish that responds to magnetic waves, which may one day be used to treat Parkinson's and epilepsy. The gene, called the electromagnetic-perceptive gene, can be activated using magnets and has shown promise in controlling movement in mice.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 14, 2018

Research identifies potential guidance for gastric cancer treatment

Researchers have discovered a link between MUC16 gene mutations and higher tumor mutation loads in gastric cancer patients, which may improve response rates to immunotherapy. The study's findings could open up new treatment options for up to 38% of gastric cancer patients.

SourceNational Foundation for Cancer Research·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 14, 2018

Effectively expressing empathy to improve ICU care

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that physicians who showed unburied empathy during care conferences had more effective conversations with families, leading to better patient outcomes. The researchers recommend slowing down, using the 'NURSE' mnemonic, and avoiding transitions like 'but' to improve empathetic communication.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 14, 2018

Early opaque universe linked to galaxy scarcity

A team of astronomers led by George Becker found that 12.5 billion years ago, the most opaque region in the universe had relatively little matter. The discovery sheds light on how galaxies formed and altered their surroundings in the early universe.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 14, 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.

Inching closer to a soft spot in isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis

A recent study published in Molecular & Cellular Proteomics has uncovered changes in TB strains that make them vulnerable to other antibiotics. The research also reveals a potential target for developing new drugs against isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateAug 14, 2018

Doctors may be able to enlist a mysterious enzyme to stop internal bleeding

Researchers at Scripps Research have found an enzyme, YRSACT, that increases megakaryocyte production, the precursors to platelets. This discovery offers a new therapeutic option for treating thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by low platelet counts and increased risk of internal bleeding.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2018

Trees and climate change: Faster growth, lighter wood

A study by the Technical University of Munich found that European trees' wood density has decreased continuously since 1870, despite increased growth. The decrease in wood density is attributed to factors such as rising temperatures and nitrogen input from agriculture and industry, affecting forest ecosystems.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateAug 14, 2018

2018-2022 expected to be abnormally hot years

A new method predicts mean air temperature will be abnormally high in 2018-2022, higher than figures inferred from anthropogenic global warming alone. This is due to a low probability of intense cold events and a high probability of heat events, leading to increased tropical storm activity.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 14, 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.

Societies recommend policies to retain, increase ranks of ID physician scientists

Challenges facing ID physician scientists include inadequate funding for fellowship opportunities and steep compensation disparities, leading to a decline in trainees pursuing careers as physician researchers. To address this, medical societies recommend expanded mentorship, training opportunities, and workforce diversity measures.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 14, 2018

Models give synthetic biologists a head start

Researchers at Rice University and the University of Houston created models to predict the output of custom-built genetic circuits, enabling unprecedented precision in programming microorganisms. The models can be used to design microbes for complex environments, such as the gut microbiome or soil, and improve the controllable manufact...

SourceRice University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateAug 14, 2018

Chemicals found in vegetables prevent colon cancer in mice

A study from the Francis Crick Institute found that chemicals produced by vegetables like kale and broccoli can prevent colon cancer in mice. The research discovered that these compounds activate a protein called AhR, which helps protect against inflammatory responses to gut bacteria.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalImmunity·DateAug 14, 2018
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.

Flipping the switch on supramolecular electronics

Researchers have created new 'switches' that respond to light using combined light-sensitive molecules with layers of graphene and other 2D materials. This technology could lead to programmable applications in smart electronics, sensors, and flexible devices.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 14, 2018

Elephants resist cancer by waking a zombie gene

Researchers discovered elephants' ability to resist cancer stems from the 'zombie LIF6' gene, which kills cells poised to become cancerous. This strategy may inspire new treatments for humans by mimicking the gene's behavior or activating its existing copies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 14, 2018

Extending palm oil production in Africa threatens primate conservation

A new study finds that only a few areas in Africa are suitable for palm oil production without harming primate populations, raising concerns about the industry's impact on conservation. The research highlights the need for sustainable practices and policy initiatives to mitigate large-scale deforestation.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 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.

In neutron stars, protons may do the heavy lifting

Researchers found that a small fraction of protons in neutron-dense objects significantly impact their stiffness, mass-to-size ratio, and cooling process. Protons are believed to determine several properties of the star due to their high energy content.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2018

Audience members influence value creation in the TV audience market

A study by Ulrike Rohn and Mats Nylund reveals that TV audiences create value through sharing activities, including distribution, interaction, and audience circulation. Successful TV providers must provide a platform for audience input, stimulate engagement, and promote viral sharing.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalInternational Journal of Digital Television·DateAug 14, 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.

Severe declines of mountain hares on Scottish grouse moors

A new study reveals severe declines in mountain hare populations on Scottish grouse moors, with numbers decreasing by nearly 5% every year from 1954 to 1999. The decline accelerated dramatically between 1999 and 2017, with counts in 2017 showing less than one percent of original levels.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 14, 2018

How hot is Schrödinger's coffee?

A new uncertainty relation has been discovered, linking the precision of temperature measurements to quantum mechanics. This discovery establishes a connection between quantum uncertainty and the accuracy of nanoscale thermometers.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 14, 2018

Wage gap between hospital executives and doctors is widening, study finds

A study reveals a widening wage gap between hospital CEOs and medical staff, with CEO salaries increasing by 93% while doctor and nurse wages rose by 26-15%. The cost-burden of nonclinical workers contributed to the growth in healthcare costs, with nationwide expenditures reaching $3.2 trillion in 2015.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateAug 14, 2018

Substances associated with bee ferocity are discovered

Researchers detected higher levels of chemical substances in Africanized honeybee brains than in gentler strains, triggering irascible behavior. The compounds also regulate food intake and digestion in flies and mice, illustrating molecular mechanisms underlying different species' behavior evolution.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateAug 14, 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.