Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive December 2018 - Page 29


Page 29 of 33

New Zika vaccine effective in preclinical trials

Researchers at the University of Hawaii have developed a recombinant subunit vaccine that uses only a small part of the Zika virus to protect against infection. The vaccine has shown efficacy in both mice and monkeys, providing an important milestone in its development.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateDec 4, 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.

A bit of a stretch... material that thickens as it's pulled

Researchers have discovered a new non-porous material with unique 'auxetic' stretching properties, allowing it to thicken when stretched. This discovery has significant benefits for the development of products with wide range applications, including body armour, architecture and medical equipment.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 4, 2018

Researchers use a virus to speed up modern computers

Researchers successfully engineered a better type of memory using a virus, reducing millisecond time delays for faster computing. Phase-change memory technology can now be integrated into current integrated circuits without material separation constraints.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateDec 4, 2018

High lead levels found in some spices purchased abroad

A study by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that over half of spice samples had detectable lead concentrations, with higher levels detected in spices purchased abroad. The study highlights the importance of considering spices as a potential risk factor for lead exposure in high-risk populations.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateDec 4, 2018

Can rice and flushing the toilet be slowly poisoning you?

Research highlights the presence of harmful toxins in common food items and water sources, including rice, barbecued meat, tap water, and toilets. Studies estimate high levels of arsenic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in rice and heat-processed meat, respectively.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 4, 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.

More diversity than before

Researchers found that hybridization during eutrophication led to an expansion in biodiversity of the European whitefish species once the ecosystem recovered. This rapid niche expansion was made possible by genetic variation, demonstrating functional variation can quickly recover after ecosystem restoration.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 4, 2018

Study shows how mussels handle microplastic fiber pollution

A study by researchers from Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences found that mussels readily take in microplastic fibers but quickly flush most of them out. This suggests that marine animals may play a role in mitigating the impact of microplastics on ecosystems.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateDec 4, 2018

High salt diet may increase the risk of developing heart arrhythmia

A high salt diet may increase the risk of developing heart arrhythmia, according to a new study published in Annals of Medicine. Researchers followed 716 middle-aged men and women for 19 years, finding that those who consumed the highest levels of salt had a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAnnals of Medicine·DateDec 4, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Inactivating genes can boost crop genetic diversity

Researchers have discovered that inactivating the RECQ4 gene can treble recombination frequency, leading to increased chromosome shuffling and greater genetic diversity. This discovery is expected to improve crop breeding operations by allowing breeders to combine more genes in a single generation.

SourceCirad·JournalNature Plants·DateDec 4, 2018

Algae testbed experiment yields data useful for future projects

Researchers conducted a 19-month experiment to study algae growth in five outdoor locations across the US. The project provided valuable data on optimal conditions for algae production, which can help others make predictions and develop strategies for growing algae in various regions.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScientific Data·DateDec 4, 2018

Gene therapy for blood disorders

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a novel approach to gene therapy using microparticles that deliver gene-regulating material to hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. This technology could potentially treat inherited blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia by altering the genetic defect in t...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 4, 2018

New graphene-based sensor design could improve food safety

A new graphene-based sensor design can detect multiple substances simultaneously, including bacteria and pathogens, offering improved food safety. The sensor's high sensitivity and adjustable properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateDec 4, 2018

Toxic chemicals calling: Cell phones as a source of flame retardants

Researchers at the University of Toronto discovered that cell phone levels of toxic chemicals correlate with those on hands and in urine, suggesting handheld devices as time-integrated samplers for chemical exposure. The study highlights the need to reduce use of handheld devices, especially by children.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalEnvironment International·DateDec 4, 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.

Global review finds consumption of children's antibiotics varies widely

A global review of antibiotic sales in 70 high- and middle-income countries found that consumption patterns vary widely, with low levels of 'Access' antibiotics like amoxicillin. The study also highlights the overuse of 'Watch' antibiotics, which should only be used for specific indications.

SourceDrugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateDec 4, 2018

Gut microbiome differs among ethnicities, researchers find

Researchers discovered 12 bacteria types consistently varying in abundance by ethnicity, highlighting a baseline for understanding healthy microbiome differences among individuals. The findings hold promise for developing personalized approaches to prevent and treat chronic diseases disproportionately affecting ethnic minorities.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 4, 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.

Weirdly shaped mouse sperm can be used to tell species apart

Researchers analyzed sperm from 58 South American rodents to find that distinct shapes can differentiate between closely related species. The study suggests that sperm shape may be an evolutionary advantage, providing a new method for identifying and conserving rodent species.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateDec 4, 2018

No bleeding required: Anemia detection via smartphone

A new smartphone app uses fingernail photos to detect anemia with high accuracy, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional blood tests. The app was developed by a biomedical engineer who lives with beta-thalassemia and aims to facilitate self-management for patients with chronic anemia.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 4, 2018

Spinal cord injury could throw off body's internal clock, study shows

Researchers found that spinal cord injuries disrupt circadian rhythms of hormones, body temperature and movement, resulting in widespread disruption throughout the body. This could lead to new recovery efforts targeting daily schedules, sleep, physical rehabilitation and bright light.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournaleNeuro·DateDec 4, 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.

Human actions impact wild salmon's ability to evolve

A study led by University of California, Davis, found that human actions alter the characteristics of wild species, leading to irreversible changes. The researchers analyzed genetic data from spring-run Chinook salmon and concluded that losing this gene could result in their extinction forever.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2018

Biologists show inner workings of cellular 'undertaker'

Biologists have visualized the inner workings of cellular 'undertaker' proteasomes using cryo-electron microscopy. The study reveals how ATP powers movements within the motor that enable it to pull in proteins, providing insights into neurogenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, as well as cancer therapy.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 4, 2018

Protein may slow progression of emphysema, Rutgers study finds

A Rutgers study suggests that a protein produced in response to parasitic intestinal worms can suppress harmful inflammation linked to emphysema and control its progression. The study provides new insights into possible treatments for the deadly disease, which currently has no cure but can be managed through treatment.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 4, 2018

Colombia tropical forest fires spike after 2016 Peace Accords

A Rutgers University study found a 600% increase in forest fires in protected areas and a 52% increase in deforestation probability following guerrilla demobilization. The researchers recommend real-time monitoring and payment programs to protect forests.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 4, 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.

Mystery of color patterns of reef fish solved

Researchers found that closely related reef fish species with vastly different colour patterns are most pronounced when their ranges overlap. The study also discovered that this divergence in colour patterns can occur quickly over 300,000 years but remains stable for millions of years.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalEcology Letters·DateDec 4, 2018

Is the pancreas regeneration debate settled? An original theory renewed

Scientists from the Diabetes Research Institute renewed their original theory that pancreatic progenitor cells exist and can regenerate in humans. The study's findings could potentially address a major challenge in type 1 diabetes by regrowing patients' own insulin-producing cells.

SourceDiabetes Research Institute Foundation·JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateDec 4, 2018

Lack of preparedness and insecurity hampered response to cholera epidemic in Yemen

A Johns Hopkins report highlights Yemen's inadequate cholera preparedness and response, citing gaps in surveillance, access to populations, and coordination. The authors recommend improving disease surveillance, integrating health and WASH sectors, and boosting laboratory capacity to better prepare for future epidemics.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateDec 4, 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.

The health risks of being employed are changing in the US and globally

The article highlights the growing occupational health risks faced by workers in various industries, including nail salons and garment manufacturing. In these sectors, workers often bear the risk due to lack of regulation or inadequate training, leading to increased rates of asthma, miscarriages, and microbial infections.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 4, 2018

How does the precision medicine initiative affect me?

The precision medicine initiative is shifting healthcare from population-based approaches to individualized care focusing on each patient's genetic makeup. This shift raises new legal, policy, and ethical issues, including liability, trust, governance, and data access and quality.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 4, 2018

Money ills add to cancer struggle

New research reveals that financial difficulties are a significant strain on cancer patients, with over 20% reporting financial trouble. The study found that employment status and cancer type significantly impact financial well-being.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateDec 4, 2018

Yumanity Therapeutics announces publication of paper in Cell Reports

The company's discovery engine identified a series of compounds that shielded cells against alpha-synuclein-induced toxicity by inhibiting stearoyl-CoA desaturase. This finding suggests that inhibition of fatty acid desaturation could be a potential therapeutic approach for treating Parkinson's disease and other synuclein-based disorders.

SourceW2O Group·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 4, 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.

Researchers demonstrate new building block in quantum computing

The researchers successfully demonstrated a new level of control over photons encoded with quantum information, performing distinct operations on two qubits in parallel. This breakthrough enables universal quantum computing and improves energy efficiency, stability, and control.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalOptica·DateDec 4, 2018

Negative views of flexible working prevalent, especially among men

New research reveals that a third of UK workers believe flexible working creates more work for others and harms their career prospects. Men are more likely to view part-time and reduced-hour workers as negatively impacted, while women suffer from such stereotypes, leading to low uptake of flexible working rights.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalSocial Indicators Research·DateDec 4, 2018

Blast to the future

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory are developing a machine learning-based framework called BLAST to accelerate and simplify materials modeling and simulation. This software will enable companies to quickly perform molecular dynamics simulations needed for new material vetting, with applications in polymers and steel alloys.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateDec 4, 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.

Nine honored by Society for Risk Analysis

The Society for Risk Analysis awarded six scholarly and service awards and named three new Fellows at its Annual Meeting. The recipients were selected for their expertise in regulatory impact analysis, training of new risk analysis experts, and substantial achievements in science or public policy relating to risk analysis.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 4, 2018

Gene that lets you eat as much as you want holds promise against obesity

A study led by Flinders University found that removing the RCAN1 gene in mice prevented weight gain despite a high-fat diet. Blocking this gene may transform unhealthy white fat into healthy brown fat, presenting a potential treatment method against obesity. Further studies are needed to confirm these results in humans.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateDec 4, 2018

Social marketing campaigns can help threatened wildlife species recover

A new research from Imperial College London found that social marketing campaigns play a crucial role in the recovery of threatened wildlife populations. The study examined the success of a conservation campaign for the yellow-shouldered Amazon parrot and identified behavior change campaigns as a key factor in its population growth.

SourceImperial College London·JournalConservation Biology·DateDec 4, 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.

Enhancing our vision of the past

A team of scientists combined fossil and genetic data to infer that ancient animals with complex eyes were likely colour-vision capable, providing insights into the evolution of vision.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateDec 4, 2018

Single workout can boost metabolism for days

A single workout can activate neurons influencing metabolism for up to two days, according to a mouse study from UT Southwestern Medical Center. The finding provides an avenue to explore potential treatments to improve glucose metabolism in diabetes patients.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateDec 4, 2018

Sex-specific effects of DHEA on bone mineral density and body composition

A study published in Clinical Endocrinology found that DHEA therapy increased bone mineral density in older women, particularly in the lumbar spine, total hip, and trochanter. However, the increases were not as large as seen with other treatments like bisphosphonates.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalClinical Endocrinology·DateDec 4, 2018

Natural selection in the womb can explain health problems in adulthood

A study found that random differences in gene expression during fetal development can lead to a survival advantage, potentially contributing to adult health issues. The researchers propose that these epigenetic variations can become more common in individuals exposed to famine or adverse conditions during gestation.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 4, 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.

Fasting for lab tests isn't good for patients with diabetes

Patients with diabetes are more likely to experience hypoglycemia after fasting, which can lead to faintness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. The study suggests that routine fasting guidelines may not be necessary anymore, and proper education about fasting and diabetes is lacking.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Endocrinology·DateDec 4, 2018

NIH-funded tissue chips rocket to International Space Station

A set of immune system tissue chips is scheduled to launch on SpaceX's 16th commercial resupply mission to the International Space Station, where they will simulate the aging process of the immune system. The goal is to gain new insights into the molecular basis for many human conditions and develop novel therapies.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateDec 4, 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.

Researchers classify Alzheimer's patients in 6 subgroups

Researchers identified six distinct subgroups of Alzheimer's patients based on cognitive functioning and genetic data. The study found substantial biological differences among these subgroups, which may lead to the development of precision medicine approaches for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2018

Study finds increased long-term mortality in pediatric firearm injury survivors

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine finds that children and adolescents who survive firearm injuries have increased long-term mortality rates compared to those who survive nonviolent trauma. The study identifies socioeconomic disparities as a key factor in these disparities.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateDec 4, 2018