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Science News Archive December 2018 - Page 16


Page 16 of 33

MON 810 and NK603 GM Maize: No effects detected on rat health or metabolism

Researchers tested rats on GM maize MON 810 and NK603 for 6 months, using high-throughput biology techniques. No significant biological markers were found, and anatomic pathology examination revealed no alteration of organs. The study does not detect any harmful effects of the GMOs on rat health or metabolism.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalToxicological Sciences·DateDec 13, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Noncoding mutations contribute to autism risk

A new study found that noncoding mutations in promoter regions contribute to autism risk. The researchers analyzed data from 1,902 families and identified de novo mutations in genes involved in neuronal differentiation and developmental delay.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2018

Life expectancy for blacks in US driven down by guns

A new study by Columbia University Professors Charles Branas and Jeffrey Fagan found that US blacks face a significantly lower life expectancy due to firearm-related deaths, with substantially higher homicide rates among young black Americans contributing to this disparity.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalBMJ Evidence-Based Medicine·DateDec 13, 2018

Potential range for new invasive tick covers much of eastern US

A new study models potential habitat for the Asian longhorned tick in North America, suggesting a large swath of eastern US could be suitable. The tick's adaptable nature and ability to reproduce via parthenogenesis make it a significant public health concern, with over 300,000 people infected with Lyme disease each year.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateDec 13, 2018

Study scrutinizes hidden marketing relationships on social media

Researchers at Princeton University analyzed 500,000 YouTube videos and 2.1 million Pinterest pins, finding that only 10% of affiliate marketing content on YouTube and 7% on Pinterest had disclosures about paid relationships. The study highlights the need for better transparency in social media marketing.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateDec 13, 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.

Tangled magnetic fields power cosmic particle accelerators

Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory found that twisted magnetic field lines in black holes create the most powerful particle accelerators in the universe. This process can accelerate electrons and protons to extreme energies, resulting in cosmic rays with unprecedented powers.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 13, 2018

OU meteorologist to lead NASA earth venture project science investigation

Cameron R. Homeyer, a University of Oklahoma meteorologist, will lead a $30 million NASA-funded project to investigate the impact of summer storms on the stratosphere's chemistry. The five-year project aims to understand how these storms affect ozone depletion and the potential for increased water in the stratosphere.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateDec 13, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Tumor cells conquer territory from their neighbors using a newly discovered mechanism

Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism that allows tumor cells to eliminate their neighbors through mechanical competition. The study found that compressed cells are killed by modulated EGFR/ERK signal, which is decreased and then leads to cell death. This discovery suggests a potential therapeutic strategy to halt tumor growth

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 13, 2018

Slicing optical beams: Cryptographic algorithms for quantum networks

Researchers at Kazan Federal University developed cryptographic algorithms for quantum networks, which can facilitate fast and secure information transfer. The algorithms, known as quantum hash functions, can protect against mistakes and be used for authentication in various areas.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLobachevskii Journal of Mathematics·DateDec 13, 2018

New climate model to be built from the ground up

Scientists and engineers will collaborate on a new Climate Modeling Alliance to advance climate modeling and prediction. The goal is a climate model that projects future changes more accurately, with uncertainties at least half the size of existing models.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 13, 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.

New techniques better determine how ancient viral DNA influences human genes

Researchers have developed new techniques to identify which of our genes are influenced by ancient viral DNA snippets, revealing complex interactions between viruses and human genetic material. The study found that a single transposon can control multiple genes, increasing the complexity of its impact on health and disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 13, 2018

Gold recycling

A new gold recycling method has been developed using pyridinethiols and hydrogen peroxide, allowing for efficient extraction of gold from electronic waste. The process produces a stable cationic gold-containing product in organic solution, with nearly quantitative dissolution of gold after 20 minutes.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 13, 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.

Swarming behavior discovered in fish-dwelling parasite

Scientists have observed a previously unrecognized swarming behavior in Spironucleus vortens, a single-celled parasite infecting ornamental fish. The swarm exhibits highly coordinated movement, suggesting interactions between the flagellates, which may contribute to its life cycle and lead to novel treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Eukaryotic Microbiology·DateDec 13, 2018

UH chemist focuses on materials for LED lighting

Jakoah Brgoch aims to improve energy efficiency in LED lighting by developing new materials and algorithms. He will use machine learning to identify new phosphors and predict material behavior under temperature changes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateDec 13, 2018

New study investigates treatments for prurigo nodularis

A systematic review of clinical studies on prurigo nodularis treatment found neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists to be the most promising emerging therapies. The study highlights the need for higher-powered studies and randomized controlled trials to better evaluate treatment options.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateDec 13, 2018

New scientific evidence builds a stronger case for the Endangerment Finding

A comprehensive review assesses growing climate change science, strengthening the Endangerment Finding's conclusion on public health risks. The study highlights new evidence on climate change impacts, including extreme weather events, ocean acidification, and national security threats.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 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.

New undersea maps lead to hydrothermal vent and species discoveries

A new hydrothermal vent field, JaichMaat, has been discovered using submarine robotics. The vent field features multiple mounds with unique geological and geochemical characteristics, supporting diverse microbial and animal communities. Detailed maps allow for the quantification of these communities in relation to geologic features.

SourceSchmidt Ocean Institute·DateDec 13, 2018

Amyloid pathology transmission in lab mice and historic medical treatments

A UCL-led study confirms that some vials of discontinued hormone used in medical treatments contained seeds of a protein implicated in Alzheimer's disease. The research found that these seeds can seed amyloid pathology in mice and supports the team's hypothesis that amyloid beta was accidentally transmitted to patients via this treatment.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2018

Skin game

A recent study by Medical University of Vienna professor Leopold Eckhart reveals the key molecular and evolutionary origins of mammalian adaptations in skin proteins. The research found that fully aquatic mammals require only one set of epidermal keratins, suggesting a unique evolutionary path.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateDec 13, 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.

To repair DNA damage, plants need good contractors

Scientists at the Salk Institute discovered a complex gene regulation network that helps plants cope with DNA damage. The research identified approximately 2,400 genes responding to DNA damage, with only 200 directly activated by SOG1, revealing its 'hands-off' overseer role.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2018

Study finds sewage bacteria lurking in Hudson river sediments

A new study reveals that fecal bacteria from sewage are thriving in near-shore sediments of the Hudson River, with potential health risks for swimmers and kayakers. The researchers found high levels of bacteria in both water and sediment at some sites, suggesting an interchange between the two.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateDec 13, 2018

The immune system's supercell -- how it matures

Researchers at Lund University have mapped the maturation process of natural killer cells, which play a key role in fighting cancer and infections. The study found that Notch signaling is essential for NK cell development and function, highlighting its potential as a target for immunotherapies.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 13, 2018

Death near the shoreline, not life on land

Researchers found 121 new millipede trackways in Ordovician sedimentary rocks, contradicting the current understanding of animal life on land. The discovery sheds light on a key evolutionary event and highlights the importance of ancient rock records in understanding global change.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateDec 13, 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.

Mass spectrometry sheds new light on thallium poisoning cold case

Researchers used mass spectrometry to analyze Zhu Ling's hair samples and establish a timeline of her thallium poisoning. The study found that Ling was exposed to multiple doses of thallium, with increasing frequency and concentration, over a period of four months.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalForensic Science International·DateDec 13, 2018

How the brain tells you to scratch that itch

Researchers have revealed the brain mechanism behind the uncontrollable itch-scratching cycle. A small subset of neurons in the periaqueductal gray region tracks itch-evoked scratching behavior. The study provides a starting point to decipher how itch is processed and modulated in the brain.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 13, 2018

New findings on concussion in football's youngest players

A new study found that concussion rates among youth football players ages 5-14 were higher than previously reported, with 5% of players sustaining a football-related concussion each season. The study also identified factors that increase the risk of concussion, such as prior injury and depression.

SourceSeattle Children's·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateDec 13, 2018

Cancer patients face higher risk for shingles, new vaccines hold promise for prevention

A new study found that cancer patients, particularly those with blood-related cancers, have a significantly higher risk of developing shingles due to the virus reactivating later in life. New shingles vaccines offer great promise as a strategy to prevent shingles and its complications in cancer patients.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateDec 13, 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.

NSF awards $50 million in grants to improve STEM education

The NSF's Discovery Research PreK-12 program has awarded over $50 million to enhance STEM education for students and teachers across 24 US states and the US Virgin Islands. The grants focus on research-based projects that strengthen teaching, learning, and assessment in pre-K through grade 12 settings.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateDec 13, 2018

The long dry: why the world's water supply is shrinking

Research found that global water supplies are shrinking as soils dry out due to climate change, leading to drought-like conditions. Despite intense rain, large rivers are drying out, and urban flooding is becoming more common.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalWater Resources Research·DateDec 13, 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.

Inability to perform basic activities delays mental health patients' discharge

A recent study by the University of Waterloo found that mental health patients unable to perform basic activities experience significantly longer discharge delays. Researchers identified cognitive impairment, age, and socio-demographic factors as key predictors of delayed discharges.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalAdministration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research·DateDec 13, 2018

Revealed by a multidisciplinary effort: History of maize domestication not what we thought

A new study reveals southwestern Amazonia as a secondary improvement center for early maize, contradicting previous understanding of its history. The analysis of ancient grains' genetic heritage provides insight into human-mediated evolutionary processes that led to one of the world's most important staple crops.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2018

Fitness instructors' comments shape women's body satisfaction

A Northwestern University study found that exercise improves women's mood and body satisfaction, but instructor comments play a crucial role. Women who received health-focused comments reported increased positive emotions and self-satisfaction, whereas those with appearance-focused comments felt ashamed and disgusted. The study highlig...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical Sport Psychology·DateDec 13, 2018

Septin proteins act as cellular police to identify, imprison and kill 'superbug' Shigella

Researchers discovered that septins can detect where bacteria will split for division and prevent it from doing so by forming cage-like structures around the bacteria. This finding provides new clues to stop the spread of deadly infections, including Shigella, a 'superbug' deemed a priority by the World Health Organization.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 13, 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.

NSF and Internet2 to explore cloud computing

The NSF-funded E-CAS project will investigate the viability of commercial clouds for leading-edge research computing, with Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud Platform as initial providers. The project aims to accelerate scientific discoveries by leveraging cloud computing capabilities.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateDec 13, 2018

More than air: Researchers fine-tune wind farm simulation

A collaborative research team examined predictive models used to forecast wind farm effects, revealing the importance of model resolution in simulating weather patterns. Higher vertical and horizontal resolutions improved simulations, but more study is needed to optimize wind energy deployment.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 13, 2018

Control HIV by treating schistosomiasis, new study suggests

Researchers found that schistosomiasis is associated with increased HIV transmission, acquisition in uninfected women, and mortality in infected women. Treating schistosomiasis may be a cost-effective way to reduce new HIV cases and death rates among HIV-positive individuals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 13, 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.

Regular trips out guard against depression in old age

A new study found that regular visits to museums, theatres, or cinemas can lower the chances of developing depression in people over 50. The research also showed that cultural activities have similar benefits to exercise and eating a balanced diet for mental health.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateDec 13, 2018

Two UT Austin engineers elected to National Academy of Inventors

Two UT Austin engineers, Hal Alper and Alex Huang, have been selected as fellows in the prestigious National Academy of Inventors. Their research has led to significant innovations in biochemical engineering and power semiconductor device technology, resulting in seven U.S.-issued patents and technologies licensed to several companies.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateDec 12, 2018

Researchers create first sensor package that can ride aboard bees

Engineers at the University of Washington have developed a sensing system that can ride on top of a bumblebee, allowing for long-term data collection without power constraints. The system uses a tiny rechargeable battery and a receiver to triangulate the bee's position, enabling precise location tracking.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateDec 12, 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.

Research unlocks secrets of iron storage in algae

Researchers discovered that diatoms storing iron through ferritin are more resilient to iron shortages, outcompeting others in shifting ocean conditions. This finding has significant implications for marine food webs and large ocean cycles.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2018

Clearest view ever of cell membrane yields unexpected structure, research possibilities

A team of researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University has gained the clearest view yet of a patch of cell membrane and its components, revealing an unexpected hexagonal structure. This discovery opens up new possibilities for pharmaceutical research, particularly in targeting medical drugs that interact with cell membranes.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2018