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Science News Archive December 2018


Page 18 of 33

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Declining snowpack over western US mapped at a finer scale

Researchers have mapped snow mass changes in the Western US from 1982 to 2016 on a grid of squares 2.5-miles on a side, revealing significant declines in mountainous areas. The annual maximum snow mass over the Western US is decreasing, with some regions showing up to 41% reduction in yearly maximum mass since 1982.

Saving species with better monitoring

Dr. Easton R. White analyzes 822 vertebrate species populations, demonstrating substantial problems with current sampling approaches. He argues that properly statistically powered methods will provide a truer representation of population health.

Length of eye blinks might act as conversational cue

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that people perceive subtle differences in eye blinks during conversations, affecting response lengths and indicating a joint activity between speakers and listeners. The research suggests that even small movements like blinking can serve as nonverbal communication.

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.

What's behind smelly wine

Researchers found that polysulfanes decompose during wine storage, releasing hydrogen sulfide and causing the smell of sewage or rotten eggs. The study suggests that antioxidants like sulfur dioxide can help manage the release of stinky sulfur compounds in wine.

Putting a price on reputation

A study by University of Technology Sydney researchers found that a company's corporate reputation commands a premium of around 9% for its products. Consumers are willing to pay more for products with important features and a good brand reputation, but less so for novel features regardless of reputation.

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.

Light-induced modification of a carboxylic acid with an aminocyclopropenone

A team of researchers from Kanazawa University has developed a phototriggered modification reaction of a carboxylic acid using an aminocyclopropenone. The resulting ynamine works as a dehydration agent to connect the carboxylic acid and the amine. Under intense light conditions, another isomeric mixture of three ketones was produced.

An integrated approach to finding new treatments for breast cancer

Researchers identify DPYSL3 as a molecule whose expression is altered in Claudin-Low triple-negative breast cancer, a highly metastatic and aggressive subtype. The study suggests that targeting the connection between DPYSL3 and vimentin could lead to new treatments for this disease.

Researchers find clue to epidemics in 'bursty' social behavior

A new mathematical model developed by NYU Tandon researchers takes into account the influence of bursty social interactions on disease spread. The model's discovery could improve predictive models and provide a more nuanced understanding of how diseases spread in globally connected populations.

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 new algorithm improves flight safety and reduces delays

A new algorithm developed in the European TBO-Met project optimizes flight trajectories to reduce delays and enhance safety. The system can predict and mitigate weather-related uncertainties, resulting in increased efficiency and cost savings.

Study evaluates efficacy and safety of pancreatic cancer treatment

A phase I/II trial found that combining nab-paclitaxel with gemcitabine significantly improved survival rates even among patients with reduced health status. The study's results suggest alternative treatment options for patients typically underrepresented in clinical trials.

Calories in popular restaurant chain meals 'excessive' warn experts

Studies across multiple countries find that popular restaurant chains serve high-calorie meals, failing to meet public health guidelines. Only a small minority of meals met the recommended calorie limit, highlighting the need for intervention targets such as portion reduction and mandatory labelling.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

College textbooks largely overlook the most common animals

A recent study finds that introductory biology textbooks devote less than 1% of their text to discussing insects, despite them making up over 60% of animal species. This lack of coverage provides a poor foundation for understanding ecosystems and biodiversity.

UMN researchers give new insight to muscular dystrophy patients

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have made a significant breakthrough in understanding FSHD by determining the three-dimensional structure of the DUX4 protein. This protein is responsible for the disease, which affects approximately 1 million people globally and currently has no treatment. The study's findings provide valuabl...

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.

RUDN medics called the world to action against hepatitis in Somalia

A recent study by RUDN medics revealed critical spread rates of five types of viral hepatitis in Somalia, with 18.9% of residents infected with hepatitis B and higher rates for hepatitis A and E. The researchers emphasize the need for immediate action to address this global health crisis.

News release: Increased motor activity linked to improved mood

A new study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that increasing physical activity during the day is associated with improved spirits. The research also suggests that tracking sleep, activity, mood, and energy levels concurrently can provide valuable insights for people with bipolar disorder.

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.

Rice plants that grow as clones from seed

Researchers at UC Davis have made a breakthrough in plant biology by discovering a way to produce crops as clones from seed. This process, known as apomixis, allows for the reproduction of high-yielding and disease-resistant crops without the need for expensive hybrid seeds. The discovery has significant implications for global food se...

Combining three treatment strategies may significantly improve melanoma treatment

A study combining three advanced treatments for malignant melanoma shows promising results in animal models, with the triple combination producing near-total eradication of tumors. The use of oncolytic viruses, MEK inhibitors and immune checkpoint blockers enhances therapeutic responses, offering new hope for patients with melanoma.

Study finds insidious and persistent discrimination among physician mothers

A US study reveals that physicians based on their status as mothers face unique forms of discrimination, including varied expectations of performance, limited career development opportunities, and lack of support before and after birth. The findings emphasize the need for structural changes to address pregnancy, parental leave, and chi...

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.

Higher risk of heart attack on Christmas Eve

A Swedish study found that the risk of heart attack peaks at around 10 pm on Christmas Eve, especially for older and sicker individuals due to heightened emotional stress. This risk is also higher during New Year's and Midsummer holidays, as well as Monday mornings.

Loss of tight junction protein promotes development of precancerous cells

A study at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that mice infected with H. pylori bacteria and lacking claudin 18 developed precancerous cells and polyps. The loss of claudin 18 alone was enough to prompt precancerous cell development, indicating a new strategy to inhibit gastric cancer progression.

Fighting obesity -- could it be as plain as dirt?

Researchers have discovered a possible cure for obesity using clay materials that can attract and trap fat droplets in the gut, preventing their absorption. This breakthrough could lead to greater weight loss with fewer side effects, making it an exciting avenue for weight loss research.

High-dose antipsychotics place children at increased risk of unexpected death

A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found that high-dose antipsychotic medications increase the risk of unexpected death in children and young adults. The study analyzed data from over 250,000 children and young people aged 5-24, revealing a 3.5-fold increased risk of unexpected death compared to those taking lower doses.

Seeing small-molecule interactions inside cells (video)

Scientists create assay to detect protein-protein interactions with strong fluorescent signal, enabling disease therapy development and drug screening. The technique uses genetically engineered human cells producing fluorescent proteins, allowing researchers to observe interactions in living cells.

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.

Deep-learning technique reveals 'invisible' objects in the dark

Researchers at MIT used a deep neural network to reconstruct transparent objects from low-exposure images taken in the dark. The technique could illuminate features of biological tissues and cells in low-light conditions, reducing the need for excessive light exposure that can damage specimens.

Your weight history may predict your heart failure risk

A study analyzing 6,000 people found that tracking a patient's weight history from young adulthood can provide valuable insights into their future risk of heart failure. The investigation showed that maintaining a normal weight over the lifespan is ideal, while obesity at specific ages significantly increases the risk of heart disease.

Live from the ocean research vessel Atlantis

Scientists from the U.S. National Science Foundation-funded expedition aboard the Atlantis will share their research findings on submarine volcanic activity and crust formation. The live broadcasts, scheduled for Dec. 11-13, will also feature young researchers and their experiences with modern deep-sea exploration.

Coral larvae use sound to find a home on the reef

Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found that coral reefs' soundscape influences coral larvae's choice of settlement, with healthy reefs having more fish sounds attracting larvae. The study suggests using sound to aid in coral reef preservation and potentially rebuild damaged reefs.

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.

Driving with dementia -- New guidance for doctors

The new guidelines aim to support doctors in assessing and managing patients with dementia who drive. Key findings indicate that many people with dementia are safe to drive in the early stages, but making the decision to stop can be difficult.

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.

Tube travel linked to the spread of flu-like illnesses

New research on London Underground commute finds a link between public transport and airborne infections. Higher rates of flu-like cases are observed in busier terminals with longer journeys, suggesting the role of crowded junctions in spreading illness.

Risk of dementia increased among female veterans with TBI, PTSD, depression

A study found that female veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or depression are more likely to develop dementia than their counterparts without these conditions. Women with PTSD were about 80% more likely, while those with depression were about 70% more likely to develop dementia.

3D printing offers helping hand to patients with arthritis

A study published in Geriatrics found that 3D-printed adaptive aids for arthritis patients can offer significant cost savings, with some items costing as little as 45 cents. The customized designs can also improve the quality of life for these individuals, enabling them to perform daily tasks independently.

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.

Teens get more sleep with later school start time, researchers find

Researchers at the University of Washington found that delaying school start times for Seattle high schools resulted in a median increase of 34 minutes of sleep each night. This led to improved academic performance and more consistent wake-up times, with students sleeping in longer and waking up closer to their natural wake-up times.

Record-wet and record-dry months increased in regions worldwide

A new study reveals that regions worldwide are experiencing more extreme weather events, with heavy rainfall in North America and Europe, while Africa sees an increase in droughts. The study suggests that human-caused climate change is driving these changes, with significant impacts on people's livelihoods.

Scientists identify new minerals for carbon capture

Researchers have identified hydrotalcites as capable of capturing CO2 in mine tailings, potentially improving carbon sequestration beneath the surface. The study found that these minerals can trap CO2 deeper into the tailings than carbonate minerals could, offering a new approach to reducing atmospheric emissions.

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.

NASA examines reborn Tropical Cyclone Owen's temperatures

Tropical Cyclone Owen's center was surrounded by intense storms with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The cyclone is expected to move slowly and may reach category 3 intensity, bringing destructive winds along the Northern Territory coast.

Does work stress increase cancer risk?

A study of over 280,000 people found a significant association between work stress and increased risk of colorectal and esophagus cancers. However, no link was observed for prostate, breast, or ovarian cancers, with the relationship varying by region.

Surgery unnecessary for many prostate cancer patients

A 29-year study found that only 12% of men with advanced prostate cancer were saved from dying by surgery, while 80% had died after 29 years. Surgery did extend life expectancy by 2.9 years, but also came with significant side effects.

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.