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Science News Archive December 2018 - Page 30


Page 30 of 33

Low-income, rural kids at higher risk for second- or third-hand smoke exposure

A recent study found that infants and toddlers in low-income, rural areas may be exposed to high levels of second- and third-hand smoke. The study suggests that frequent moves, lower education, and more adults in the home can increase a child's exposure to smoke.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateDec 4, 2018

Oral cancer prognostic signature identified

A study found a correlation between oral cancer progression and the abundance of specific proteins in tumor tissue and saliva. The discovery offers a new parameter for predicting disease progression and may help guide treatment choices.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·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.

Team converts wet biological waste to diesel-compatible fuel

Researchers at the University of Illinois successfully converted wet biowaste into a diesel-compatible fuel using hydrothermal liquification. The new process meets current standards for diesel fuel and produces similar pollutant emissions to regular diesel.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 4, 2018

Spinal injury throws body clocks off schedule

A new study finds that spinal cord injuries profoundly impact the body's internal clocks, affecting body temperature, hormone fluctuations, immunity, and other bodily processes. The researchers discovered that expression of clock genes was reduced in both injured and uninjured tissue, with implications for recovery.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournaleNeuro·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.

NASA-NOAA satellite finds Owen fading in the Coral Sea

Tropical Cyclone Owen weakened from a tropical storm to a depression due to wind shear, resulting in disorganized storm patterns and reduced thunderstorm development. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center notes a chance for the storm to re-strengthen after two days when wind shear relaxes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 4, 2018

Full of energy

Engineers are working on a $1.88 million grant to study the fundamental properties of gallium oxide for use in high-voltage power systems. The goal is to minimize energy losses and enhance performance in devices such as surveillance drones, all-electric airplanes, and electric vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateDec 4, 2018

Russian scientists developed a new drug for cancer diagnostics and treatment

A new combined action drug was developed by Russian scientists using ionizing radiation and bacterial toxin, showing a 2,200 times stronger effect than separate use. The drug selectively targets tumor cells and facilitates visualization of tumors, making it a diagnostic tool for cancer treatment.

SourceSechenov University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2018

Immune health in space

A new study reveals spaceflight has limited impact on B-cell immunity, a crucial part of the immune system. Astronauts living on the International Space Station for 6 months showed unaffected B-cell immune competency, suggesting in-flight vaccine-based countermeasures may be effective.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateDec 4, 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.

Structure of electrolyte controls battery performance

The study reveals that adding water to the electrolyte speeds up the slow reaction of calcium-ion batteries by changing its structure. This discovery could greatly benefit the development of electrolytes for implementing calcium-ion batteries, making them safer, cheaper, and more powerful than existing lithium-ion batteries.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateDec 4, 2018

SRNL demonstrates electrochemical techniques for monitoring microbial growth

Researchers at SRNL have developed an electrochemical technique to monitor microbial growth and energy levels, improving cost-effectiveness and automating bioprocesses. This technology uses electrodes to detect changes in electrical current, providing early warnings for optimal conditions.

SourceDOE/Savannah River National Laboratory·JournalApplied Microbiology and Biotechnology·DateDec 4, 2018

Young black gay men have vastly higher HIV rates yet fewer partners

A new study finds that young black gay men are 16 times more likely to have an HIV infection than their white peers, despite engaging in fewer risk behaviors. The study highlights the importance of understanding social networks and access to medical care for addressing these disparities.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateDec 4, 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.

Understanding the current rise of the far right using Marx and Lacan

Researchers suggest white working classes turn to far right due to feelings of incompleteness and inadequacy, fueled by neo-liberal capitalist societies' emphasis on economic success. The far right provides fantasies that compensate for these emotions, allowing individuals to feel whole and superior.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Cultural Studies·DateDec 4, 2018

A universal DNA nano-signature for cancer

A unique nano-scaled DNA signature common to all cancers has been discovered, allowing for rapid detection from various tissues. This breakthrough technology uses gold nanoparticles to detect cancer DNA fragments and could lead to point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·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.

Realistic exposure study supports the use of zinc oxide nanoparticle sunscreens

A new Australian study has provided direct evidence that zinc oxide nanoparticles do not penetrate human skin or cause cellular toxicity after repeated application. The findings support the use of ZnO nanoparticle sunscreens, outweighing perceived risks and improving consumer confidence in these products.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateDec 4, 2018

Microscopic 'sunflowers' for better solar panels

Scientists have created microscopic three-dimensional polymer shapes that can be programmed to move in any direction in response to multiple types of stimuli. These microstructures could lead to the creation of more efficient solar panels that turn to follow the sun.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2018

Microplastics found in all sea turtle species

A recent study has revealed that all seven species of sea turtles have ingested microplastics, with over 800 synthetic particles detected in just 102 turtles. The study's findings highlight the widespread presence of microplastics in marine ecosystems and raise concerns about their potential impact on turtle health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 4, 2018

Men with chronic kidney disease have worse outcomes than women

Researchers found that men with chronic kidney disease experience faster disease progression and higher death rates compared to women. The study analyzed over 4,000 participants and discovered a 17% lower risk of end-stage renal disease in women.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·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.

Too much or too little sleep linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that both excessive and insufficient sleep are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The research analyzed data from 116,632 adults aged between 35 and 70 years, revealing a significant association between sleep duration and cardiovascular health.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateDec 4, 2018

How becoming a manager can be a double-edged sword

A new study from Portland State University found that managers experience increased resource gains and losses when taking on the role, leading to higher levels of exhaustion. Companies are now re-examining their management strategies to prioritize employees' well-being and create work-life balance.

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateDec 4, 2018

How microbial interactions shape our lives

Researchers have found that individual species in the gut microbiome account for only a quarter of the effect on fly lifespan, while interactions between species play a crucial role in determining fitness. The study highlights the importance of understanding complex microbiome interactions to better comprehend human health.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·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.

How young women view men affects how they imagine their future selves

A study from the University of Arizona found that young women who believe men are becoming more involved in childcare imagine themselves as primary caregivers, while those who think men are less involved envision themselves as primary breadwinners. This perception affects their educational and career decisions years before they start f...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateDec 4, 2018

Drug wholesalers drove fentanyl's deadly rise, report concludes

A recent report by researchers at UC San Francisco suggests that fentanyl's deadly spread is largely driven by the economic imperatives of suppliers, rather than demand from users. The report found that fentanyl's cheap and plentiful availability in wholesale markets following heroin supply shocks contributed to its rise.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAddiction·DateDec 4, 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.

New possible target for treating major common diseases

A new study identifies Frizzled 5 as a promising target for developing drugs against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and fibrosis. The receptor's activation in the cell membrane triggers specific processes within the cell, making it an attractive target for future drug development.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience Signaling·DateDec 4, 2018

'Error Neurons' play role in how brain processes mistakes

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have discovered neurons that signal the detection of errors, offering insights into executive function capabilities and possible treatments for conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder and schizophrenia. The study also found a single-neuron correlate of self-monitoring for errors in humans.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateDec 4, 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.

New technique to identify phloem cells aids in the fight against citrus greening

Researchers have developed a new technique to accurately isolate phloem cells using fluorescent microscopy and organelle-specific dyes. This method can be applied across various species to understand phloem diseases such as citrus greening, cucurbit yellow vine disease, and corn stunt disease.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateDec 4, 2018

Mountain splendor? Scientists know where your eyes will look

Using deep convolutional neural networks, Yale researchers predicted where people's eyes will look when viewing complex natural scenes. This advance in understanding the human visual system has numerous applications, including improving artificial intelligence efforts such as driverless car development.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·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.

Developing tools to combat 'fake news'

Researchers have developed new tools to help people identify fake news on social media, including a study that found structured introspection can aid in recognizing false climate change reports. Additionally, studies explored how terror attacks impact fear and anger levels on social media and the effects of media coverage on trust in s...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 4, 2018

Older women who suffer tooth loss more likely to develop high blood pressure

A recent study published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that postmenopausal women with tooth loss are more likely to develop hypertension. The researchers discovered a positive association between tooth loss and increased risk of hypertension, especially among younger women and those with lower BMI.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateDec 4, 2018
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.

Smokers who roll their own less inclined to quit

A recent study published in BMJ Open found that smokers who mainly roll their own cigarettes are less motivated to quit compared to those who mainly smoke factory-made cigarettes. The main reason for this disparity is the relatively cheap cost of RYO products, with users spending around half as much on smoking each week.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBMJ Open·DateDec 4, 2018

How parenting affects antisocial behaviors in children

Research by Dr. Rebecca Waller found that parenting style can predict the emergence of aggressive and antisocial behavior in children, with harsher treatment and less emotional warmth increasing the risk of developing such traits.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 4, 2018

UM researchers receive NASA grant to create tools for reforestation

Three University of Montana researchers are developing new tools to predict tree recruitment declines in Western semi-arid forests. They will use a combination of NASA Earth observation data, forest inventory data, and a coupled ecohydrologic model to simulate drought stress and lethal surface temperatures for conifer seedlings.

SourceThe University of Montana·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.

What are the cost-effective implants in hip replacement surgery?

Small-head cemented metal-on-plastic hip replacements are the most cost-effective option for men and women over 65 years. For younger adults, small-head cemented ceramic-on-plastic hip replacements are more likely to be cost-effective. The study found no evidence that uncemented or hybrid implants are cost-effective options.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalValue in Health·DateDec 4, 2018

The Lancet: First baby born via uterus transplant from a deceased donor

Researchers have successfully performed the world's first uterus transplant from a deceased donor, allowing a woman with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome to give birth. The recipient received immunosuppression drugs and had a healthy pregnancy, resulting in the birth of a baby girl via caesarean section.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 4, 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.

Black Americans' life expectancy decreasing due to firearms

A new study reveals that black Americans' life expectancy is decreasing due to firearms, with a two-fold loss compared to white Americans. The researchers found that substantially higher homicide rates among blacks up to age 20 drive this gap.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBMJ Evidence-Based Medicine·DateDec 4, 2018

The powerful impact of real-world learning experiences for kids

A new study suggests that real-world learning experiences, such as summer camps, can boost key components of learning in children. Researchers found that 4- to 9-year-old kids knew more about how animals are classified after a four-day camp at a zoo.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateDec 4, 2018

Can guaranteed admissions help reduce college undermatching?

A new study found that automatic admissions policies in Texas reduced undermatch among low-income, highly qualified students. The Top 10 Percent Plan increased the likelihood of enrollment at closely matched or flagship campuses by larger margins for low-income students than their high-income peers.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateDec 4, 2018

So cute you could crush it?

A recent study by Katherine Stavropoulos, an assistant professor at the University of California - Riverside, has confirmed a neural basis for cute aggression. The research found that the brain's reward system and emotion system are involved in the phenomenon, with participants experiencing higher levels of cute aggression towards cute...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·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.