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Science News Archive February 2018


Page 1 of 36

Water in the chest -- New findings on pleural effusion

Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München have discovered a novel mechanism that causes malignant pleural effusion in lung cancer patients. The mechanism involves inflammatory messengers from the immune system, leading to fluid buildup and accompanying malignant cells.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Implantable machines measure heart function

Researchers developed a method to obtain critical information about cardiac function using machines that help failing hearts circulate blood. The new approach may pave the way to self-contained mechanical circulatory support systems for patients suffering from cardiogenic shock after a heart attack.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2018

A new way to combine soft materials

Researchers have developed a new method to chemically bond multiple soft materials without sacrificing their properties. The technique allows for manufacturing of more complex soft machines, including wearable devices and flexible electronics.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2018

Understanding the smallest brain circuits

Researchers recorded electrical activity of hundreds of neurons in a mouse model for up to half an hour, discovering competing neural networks that operate at different timescales. The findings show that certain networks can synchronize their activity, while others slow down or speed up in a coordinated manner.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2018

Novel 3-D printing method embeds sensing capabilities within robotic actuators

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a platform for creating soft robots with embedded sensors that can sense movement, pressure, touch, and even temperature. This innovation enables complex sensing motifs to be easily integrated into soft robotic systems, opening new avenues to device design and fabrication.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 28, 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.

Can our eyes help predict who will develop memory loss?

A study published in Neurology suggests that small blood vessel changes in the eyes at age 60 may predict cognitive decline by age 80. The researchers used a retinal camera to take photos of participants' eyes and found that those with moderate to severe retinopathy had bigger drops in memory and thinking test scores over time.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Research details mineralogy of potential lunar exploration site

A study by Brown University researchers maps the mineralogy of the South Pole-Aitken basin, a giant impact crater on the Moon's far side. The research identified four distinct mineralogical regions within and around the basin, providing insights for future lunar exploration and landing site selection.

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 28, 2018

Moms who co-sleep beyond six months may feel more depressed, judged

Research finds that mothers who continue to co-sleep with their babies past six months are more likely to feel depressed, criticized, and anxious about their baby's sleep. Despite the trend to discourage co-sleeping, experts emphasize the importance of finding a sleep arrangement that works for everyone in the family.

SourcePenn State·JournalInfant and Child Development·DateFeb 28, 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.

Internet search trends mirror heart disease patterns

A study by the American College of Cardiology found a strong correlation between geographic and seasonal trends in coronary heart disease hospitalizations and internet search queries. The research suggests that search data can be a useful resource for tracking heart disease over time and in different regions.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Trapping multidrug-resistant bacteria in molecular glue

Researchers at VIB have devised a novel approach to develop antibacterial drugs using protein aggregation technology, which can effectively target Gram-negative bacteria like E. coli. The technology has shown strong antibacterial activity against these resistant bacteria and will be further explored by biotech company Aelin Therapeutics.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 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.

What happens in the brain during unconsciousness?

Studies analyzing brain activity during sedation, surgical anesthesia, and vegetative states reveal fragmented networks and decreased information integration. Researchers hope to develop better methods for quantifying anesthesia depth and assessing consciousness in patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateFeb 28, 2018

Naked-eye detection of solvent vapor

Scientists at University of Tsukuba create effective fluorescent sensor for detecting solvent vapor, utilizing a branched molecule called a dendrimer. The sensor can distinguish between various solvents through changes in emission color and intensity.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 28, 2018

Assessing quantum dot photoemissions

Researchers at Kumamoto University developed a technique to assess quantum dot photoluminescence emission mechanisms using polyoxometalates. The study revealed previously unseen peak emissions at 410 nm due to bulk defects in the quantum dots.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 28, 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.

The fine-tuning of two-dimensional materials

Scientists at Penn State have developed a new understanding of why synthetic 2D materials often perform orders of magnitude worse than predicted. By using oxygen-terminated substrate surfaces, they enhanced the photoluminescence intensity and carrier lifetime of molybdenum disulfide by 100 times.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2018

Unlocking the secrets of the universe

A team of astronomers has detected the fingerprints of the earliest stars in the universe, revealing a wealth of information about their formation and evolution. The detection provides the first evidence for the oldest ancestors in our cosmic family tree, born just 180 million years after the universe began.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 2018

DNA study of cow stomachs could aid meat and dairy production

A DNA study of cow stomachs could significantly boost meat and dairy production by understanding which microbes help cattle extract energy from food. The research identified previously unknown enzymes that can break down plant material, potentially leading to new biofuels.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 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.

Personalizing wearable devices

A new machine learning algorithm allows for quick optimization of personalized control parameters for assistive wearable devices, achieving significant improvements in metabolic performance and reducing costs. Researchers achieved a 17.4% reduction in metabolic cost compared to walking without the device.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Robotics·DateFeb 28, 2018

Risso's dolphins plan their dives

Researchers found that Risso's dolphins gather information from previous dives and combine it with present experience to optimize their dives. The dolphins adjust their strategy based on the depth distribution and availability of prey, showcasing advanced planning abilities.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Pesticides are accumulated in the fat tissue

Researchers from Far Eastern Federal University found that pesticides are accumulated in the fat tissue of seabirds and marine mammals. The study, published in Marine Pollution Bulletin, showed high levels of organochlorine pesticides in these organisms, particularly in those with higher fat content.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateFeb 28, 2018

NIAID unveils strategic plan for developing a universal influenza vaccine

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has unveiled a strategic plan to develop a universal influenza vaccine. The plan focuses on three key areas: improving understanding of influenza transmission, characterizing protective immunity, and designing universal vaccines.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 28, 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.

Study offers blueprint for community-based public history research

A new paper from North Carolina State University presents a case study on fieldwork in rural Belize, demonstrating how anthropological fieldwork methods can be adapted for public history research. The study emphasizes the value of local partnerships and diversity in research teams.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Public Historian·DateFeb 28, 2018

Is obesity associated with having a shorter life?

A recent study published in JAMA Network found that obesity is associated with a significantly shorter lifespan and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In contrast, being overweight was not linked to a reduced risk of death but did increase the likelihood of developing CVD at a younger age.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Number of people killed by animals each year in the US remains unchanged

A new study found that US animal-related fatalities remained stable from 2008-2015, with most deaths caused by nonvenomous animals like farm animals and dogs. The majority of fatalities were preventable, highlighting the need for education and targeted public policy to reduce animal-related deaths.

SourceElsevier·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·DateFeb 28, 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.

3-D simulations reveal synergistic mechanisms of the human heart

A new study introduces a holistic 3D numerical simulation model of the human heart, taking into account the mutual interaction between blood flow and individual components. The model reveals complex effects of heart strings on the mitral valve, shedding light on potential strategies for preventing cardiac problems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateFeb 28, 2018

Holding hands can sync brainwaves, ease pain, study shows

A recent study published in PNAS found that holding hands can synchronize brain wave patterns and reduce pain. The study also discovered that empathy plays a crucial role in this phenomenon, with more empathetic partners experiencing greater brain activity sync.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2018

Why premature cell division promotes cancers

Mutated Cyclin E and Myc genes induce premature DNA replication, leading to molecular collisions and new mutations. The study identified a method to map replication origins on all chromosomes, revealing that aberrant sites can cause genomic instability in cancers.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 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.

Stunning footage shows how drones can boost turtle conservation

Researchers from the University of Exeter use drones to track turtles over large areas, gaining insights into their behavior and movements at sea. The technology also offers cheaper alternatives for gathering information and provides new avenues for anti-poaching efforts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateFeb 28, 2018

Common knee operation in elderly constitutes low value care, new study concludes

A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that a common knee operation in elderly patients provides little benefit and may be considered low-value care. The procedure, called arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM), accounted for an estimated two-thirds of all orthopaedic knee arthroscopy procedures in older patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateFeb 28, 2018

Researchers create more complete picture of freshwater toxic algal blooms

A two-year study of North Carolina's Jordan Lake found that multiple cyanotoxins are present in the water throughout the year, albeit at very low levels. The researchers used two different measurement methods to detect these toxins and found four types: microsystin, anatoxin-a, clindrospermopsin, and β-N-methylamino-L-alanine.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalToxins·DateFeb 28, 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.

Sample storage method could improve health care in resource-limited regions

Scientists have developed a new sample storage method that uses tiny metal-organic hybrid structures to encapsulate and protect disease indicators from blood and urine samples. This technique has been shown to retain more than 85% of biomarkers for kidney damage, comparable to refrigeration.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateFeb 28, 2018

Nut consumption may aid colon cancer survival

A new study found that people who regularly eat nuts have a significantly lower risk of colon cancer recurrence and mortality. Nuts also improve disease-free survival and overall survival rates by reducing insulin resistance. Regular nut consumption is associated with being leaner, contrary to concerns about high fat content.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 28, 2018
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.

The factors that most affect our immune system

A large-scale study of French volunteers found significant immune variation among individuals due to differences in sex and age, as well as genetic variations. These findings shed new light on potential causes of diseases such as pollen allergy and lupus erythematosus.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Solar-to-hydrogen conversion: Nanostructuring increases efficiency of metal-free photocatalysts by factor 11

Researchers developed nanostructured polymeric carbon nitrides as catalysts for hydrogen production, increasing efficiency under visible light irradiation. The nanostructure with large pores and specific functionalities improved the catalytic properties, approaching that of inorganic catalysts.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 28, 2018

Dressing atoms in an ultracold soup

Physicists have discovered a way to create complex structures called Rydberg polarons using ultracold strontium atoms, which can be assembled like Lego blocks. The findings reveal new insights into the basic nature of matter and challenge traditional chemistry laws.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review A·DateFeb 28, 2018

Anxiety as a protective factor after a heart attack

A study found that female patients with anxiety disorder react more quickly to a heart attack and arrive at the hospital sooner, potentially improving their chances of survival. In contrast, men with anxiety disorder also showed a positive trend in seeking medical attention earlier, although the effect was not statistically significant.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalClinical Research in Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Don't want to lose a finger? Let a robot give a hand

AutoSaw, a system developed by MIT CSAIL, lets users design and customize furniture templates using expert knowledge and robotics for cutting tasks. The system uses small mobile robots to cut lumber with minimal risk of injury.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateFeb 28, 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.

Basic password guidance can dramatically improve account security, study shows

A recent study suggests that offering basic password guidance can significantly improve account security. Researchers found that those who received more detailed support and feedback were up to 10 times more likely to create stronger passwords. The study highlights the importance of effective guidance in promoting end-user security.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalComputers & Security·DateFeb 28, 2018

New tardigrade species Macrobiotus shonaicus sp. nov. identified in Japan

Researchers have identified a new tardigrade species Macrobiotus shonaicus sp. nov from East Asia, characterized by its solid egg surface and flexible filaments, placing it in the persimilis subgroup within the hufelandi complex. This new discovery increases the number of known tardigrade species from Japan to 168.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 28, 2018

Mapping the neural circuit governing thirst

Caltech scientists have identified a hierarchical neural circuit in the mouse brain that regulates thirst, involving excitatory and inhibitory neurons. The study reveals how this circuit integrates signals from the subfornical organ and organum vasculosum laminae terminalis to initiate drinking behavior, while also providing insight in...

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 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.

Astronomers detect earliest evidence yet of hydrogen in the universe

Researchers from MIT and Arizona State University have detected faint signals of hydrogen gas from the primordial universe, tracing them back to just 180 million years after the Big Bang. The discovery indicates that the first stars may have started turning on around this time, causing hydrogen atoms to absorb background radiation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 2018

Patients may live longer after hip replacement, study suggests

A study found that patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) have a slightly improved survival rate compared to the general population. After ten years, higher survival rates were observed among THA patients, particularly those with primary osteoarthritis.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateFeb 28, 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.

Study: Brain injury may boost risk of Alzheimer's earlier in life

A new study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found a correlation between traumatic brain injury and early-onset Alzheimer's disease. People who sustained concussions were diagnosed with dementia on average 2 1/2 years earlier than those without TBI.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNeuropsychology·DateFeb 28, 2018