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Science News Archive December 2018 - Page 25


Page 25 of 33

Interventions in dog populations could reduce rabies in rural China

A study found that interventions in dog populations could significantly reduce rabies transmission in rural China. The research analyzed genomic and epidemiological data from a re-emerging rabies outbreak in Yunnan, China, and estimated transmission rates between dogs and humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 6, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Interactive size control of catalyst nanoparticles

Researchers developed a novel method to adjust catalyst nanoparticle size during continuous flow, optimizing chemical reactions and reducing testing time. The technique improved the performance of metal-carrier catalysts, producing desired compounds with specific properties.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalChemCatChem·DateDec 6, 2018

A major feat: room temperature electrochemical cycling of a fluoride-ion battery

Researchers developed a method for creating a fluoride-ion electrochemical cell capable of operating at room temperature using a chemically stable liquid fluoride-conducting electrolyte. The new study presents a breakthrough in achieving low-temperature operating FIBs, with potential applications in high-energy-density batteries.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 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.

Helium exoplanet inflated like a balloon, research shows

Researchers have detected helium escaping from the atmosphere of HAT-P-11b, a planet equivalent in size to Neptune, revealing an extended cloud that is inflating the planet like a balloon. The study provides new insights into the extreme atmospheric conditions found around the hottest exoplanets.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Hot water and hypoxia: 'The Great Dying's' greatest killers

A new study has found that increased marine temperatures and reduced oxygen availability led to the extinction of nearly 96% of ancient ocean life during the catastrophic end-Permian mass extinction event. Tropical marine animals were more resilient to these changes, highlighting a potential pattern for future extinction events.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Fog computing: like cloud computing, but closer to you

Researchers at the University of Arizona are developing fog computing to address high-speed data demands in applications like telemedicine and smart transportation. By moving data processing closer to users, fog computing reduces latency and enables real-time decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateDec 6, 2018
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Targeted cognitive training benefits patients with severe schizophrenia

Researchers found that targeted cognitive training improved verbal learning and auditory perception scores in patients with severe schizophrenia. The treatment, which used computerized brain games to target specific neural pathways, was effective regardless of age, clinical symptoms, or medication duration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateDec 6, 2018

New traffic rules in 'Graphene City'

Researchers at Penn State have developed a system to manipulate electrons based on their energy and momentum, enabling controlled partitioning of electron flow. This technology could potentially be used to create 'color-coded' roads for electrons, revolutionizing the field of electronics.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Scientists cut main heart disease risk locus out of DNA by genome editing

Researchers precisely cut a widespread DNA region from the genome using genome editing, revealing its role in cardiovascular disease. The 9p21.3 haplotype causes abnormalities in vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to heart attacks and stroke. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for millions worldwide.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 6, 2018

Hysterectomy linked to memory deficit in an animal model

Researchers found that hysterectomy in rats with intact ovaries led to a memory deficit, suggesting the uterus may have functions beyond reproduction. The study tested rats with different types of menopause surgical interventions and found that only those with just the uterus removed had a negative effect on working memory.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEndocrinology·DateDec 6, 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.

More patient family-provider communication could mean fewer errors

Research from Boston Children's Hospital finds that engaging families in hospital communication can significantly reduce harmful medical errors. The intervention, Patient and Family Centered I-PASS, improves patient experience while maintaining safety and efficiency.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 6, 2018

Researchers discover new disease with 'Bubble Boy' roots

A team of researchers from the RI-MUHC discovered a new human disease called combined immunoficiency (CID) and its genetic cause ICOSLG. The disease is characterized by a weakened immune system, making patients susceptible to recurrent life-threatening infections.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 6, 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.

Houston Methodist launches real-time flu tracker website

The website tracks flu cases in Houston's eight-hospital system, offering real-time data on influenza A, B, RSV, and other pathogens. This tool helps physicians make informed decisions by providing timely information, often just hours or days before CDC data becomes available.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateDec 6, 2018

Study among first to describe work environments for nurses in Mexico

A study of Mexican nurses found that most have a positive perspective on their workplaces, but also face understaffing and lack of support. The research highlights the importance of improving nursing workforce factors to influence patient outcomes and work environment quality.

SourceNew York University·JournalHispanic Health Care International·DateDec 6, 2018

High-temperature electronics? That's hot

Researchers at Purdue University have created a new organic plastic material that can reliably conduct electricity in up to 220 degrees Celsius, stable across a wide temperature range. This breakthrough technology has the potential to improve applications such as sensors and solar cells in extreme temperatures.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Agricultural waste drives us closer to greener transport

Researchers developed a biodegradable and renewable composite material from date palm fibre biomass, showing increased tensile strength and improved impact resistance. The material has the potential to reduce fuel consumption and C0<sub>2</sub> emissions in vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalIndustrial Crops and Products·DateDec 6, 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.

Cardiac rehabilitation linked to improved sexual functioning and frequency

A systematic review of literature found that cardiac rehabilitation attendance is associated with improved sexual function and sexual frequency in patients with cardiovascular disease. The study highlights the need for further investigation into the effectiveness of sexual counseling interventions to improve sexual health outcomes.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateDec 6, 2018

Developing new materials for the fusion reactor

Researchers have successfully developed a new vanadium alloy that is strong at high temperatures and can be used in the manufacturing of the fusion reactor blanket. The alloy, composed of 92% vanadium, has improved ductility due to high purity production methods, making it suitable for welding and machining without breaking.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·DateDec 6, 2018

A 3D imaging technique unlocks properties of perovskite crystals

Researchers have developed a novel 3D imaging technique called COBRA that visualizes the atomic and electron density structure of complex perovskite crystal structures. This breakthrough enables the study of materials with unique properties, such as ferroelectricity and superconductivity.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 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.

Blood test for tau, Alzheimer's disease under development

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a blood test that detects different populations of tau fragments, which are specifically elevated in Alzheimer's disease. The test has shown promise in initial studies with high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, but further validation is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateDec 6, 2018

New ways to look at protein-RNA networks

Scientists at DKFZ developed XRNAX to analyze interactions between all RNA classes with cellular proteins. The new method identifies hundreds of previously unknown protein-RNA bindings and sheds light on diseases including cancer, ALS, and viral infections.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCell·DateDec 6, 2018

Silicosis is on the rise, but is there a therapeutic target?

A study published in Nature Communications identifies extracellular DNA degradation as a key mechanism of lung inflammation induced by silica exposure. Treatment with DNase I may prevent silica-induced lung inflammation, suggesting a new therapeutic target for silicosis.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2018

Why Tehran is sinking dangerously

A recent study found that Tehran is experiencing rapid land subsidence due to groundwater depletion and exploitation. The city's surface has sunk by several meters, posing significant environmental concerns, including cracks in building walls and crevices in the ground.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateDec 6, 2018

Unknown treasure trove of planets found hiding in dust

A recent study found that 40% of protoplanetary disks surrounding young stars in the Taurus region have ring structures suggesting nascent planets. These findings coincide with exoplanet statistics, supporting the idea that super-Earths and Neptunes are the most common type of planets.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateDec 6, 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.

Hysterectomy may be linked to brain function

A recent rat study published in the Endocrine Society's journal found that hysterectomy can cause short-term memory loss in rats. Removing the ovaries alongside the uterus did not result in a similar impairment, suggesting a unique negative effect of hysterectomy on brain function.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrinology·DateDec 6, 2018

Statins overprescribed for primary prevention

A comprehensive statistical modeling study found that statins are recommended far too often, with the benefits outweighing the harms only in people with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers recommend discussing individual risk and side effects with doctors before taking statins as a preventive measure.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 6, 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.

Glutamate receptor affects the development of brain cells after birth

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered that kainate receptors affect the development of brain cells immediately after birth, causing increased activity and dendrite growth. The discovery sheds light on the role of glutamate receptors in early maturation of nerve cells.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateDec 6, 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.

Obesity intervention needed before pregnancy

A large study found that taking metformin reduced weekly pregnancy weight gain, but did not improve other pregnancy outcomes. The research supports the need for pre-pregnancy dietary and lifestyle interventions to break the cycle of intergenerational obesity.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateDec 6, 2018

Kidneys from deceased donors with acute kidney injury suitable for transplant

A national study suggests that kidneys from deceased donors with acute kidney injury have the same success rates as non-injured kidneys, and may be a valuable resource for patients in need of transplantation. The study found no significant differences in organ rejection rates or recipient outcomes between AKI and non-AKI kidneys.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalKidney International·DateDec 6, 2018

Missing the forest for the trees: An unexpected picture of New York City forests

A study by Yale scientists reveals that native species dominate New York City's natural areas, containing over 5 million trees, rather than just street trees. This finding highlights the need for conservation policies and management strategies focused on these spaces to manage biodiversity and ecosystem services.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalEcological Applications·DateDec 6, 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.

Study explains how geckos gracefully gallop on water

A new study reveals geckos use a unique combination of slapping, surface tension, and their superhydrophobic skin to scurry across the water's surface. This behavior is ideal for developing robots that can mimic the animal's aquatic agility in search and rescue missions.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 6, 2018

Three quarters of a Quebec population fall short of healthy eating guidelines

A recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that more than three quarters of French-speaking adults in Quebec fall short of meeting Canada's dietary guidelines. The study suggests that stronger public health policies are needed to support healthier dietary habits and reduce chronic disease risk.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateDec 6, 2018

Watch how geckos run across water

Researchers discovered geckos' unique locomotion method, combining leg slapping, skin surface tension, and tail propulsion. The findings could inspire rapid swimming robots for search and rescue operations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 6, 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.

Elevated hormone flags liver problems in mice with methylmalonic acidemia

Researchers have discovered a hormone, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), is extremely elevated in mice with liver disease mimicking methylmalonic acidemia. FGF21 levels can predict liver severity and inform treatment decisions. The study may also shed light on common disorders like fatty liver disease and obesity.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 6, 2018

Protecting cell powerhouse paves way to better treatment of acute kidney injury

Researchers identified microRNA-668 as a key player in protecting kidney cells from damage caused by acute kidney injury. By upregulating this microRNA, the protective pathway can prevent most of the damage and allow cells to function ideally until blood and oxygen are restored.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 6, 2018

Link between neonatal vitamin D deficiency and schizophrenia confirmed

A study by researchers at the University of Queensland found that newborns with vitamin D deficiency had a 44% increased risk of being diagnosed with schizophrenia as adults. Ensuring pregnant women have adequate levels of vitamin D may result in the prevention of some schizophrenia cases.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 6, 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.

New molecular tool identifies sugar-protein attachments

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed EXoO, a new molecular tool that decodes where specific sugars are attached to proteins. The study successfully identified new markers for cancers and other diseases by mapping O-glycan sites on human blood, tumors, and immune cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateDec 6, 2018

An exoplanet inflated like a balloon

Researchers from UNIGE have detected helium in the atmosphere of an exoplanet, HAT-P-11b, which is swollen like a balloon due to stellar radiation. The discovery was made using the Carmenes spectrograph on a 4-metre telescope, and supported by numerical simulations that track the trajectory of helium atoms.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Drawing is better than writing for memory retention

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that drawing enhances memory retention in older adults more than traditional study methods. Drawing's unique combination of visual, spatial, verbal, semantic, and motoric representations led to better recall in both young people and senior citizens.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalExperimental Aging Research·DateDec 6, 2018