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Science News Archive February 2018 - Page 5


Page 5 of 36

Man-made earthquake risk reduced if fracking is 895m from faults

A new study found that the risk of man-made earthquakes due to fracking is greatly reduced if high-pressure fluid injection used to crack underground rocks is 895m away from faults in the Earth's crust. The ReFINE consortium recommends this distance to avoid reactivating geological faults and reducing the risk of induced earthquakes.

SourceDurham University·JournalGeomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources·DateFeb 27, 2018

NASA joins international science team in exploring auroral cusp from Norway

The Grand Challenge Initiative - Cusp is a series of international sounding rocket missions investigating the physics of heating and charged particle precipitation in the geomagnetic cusp. The team will study the effects of solar activity on Earth's atmosphere, improving navigation and communication near the poles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 27, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Newest data shows childhood obesity continues to increase

A new analysis from Duke University Medical Center reveals that childhood obesity rates have increased by 4.7% since 2014, affecting 35.1% of US children aged 2-19. The study also shows significant disparities in obesity rates among different ethnic groups.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 26, 2018

New research reveals clearest infrared image yet of the center of our galaxy

Astronomers have created the first high-resolution map of magnetic field lines around a black hole at the center of our galaxy. The map, produced using CanariCam infrared camera, reveals intricate details about gas and dust swirling around the supermassive black hole.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 26, 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.

Exotic state of matter: An atom full of atoms

Scientists have created a new state of matter called Rydberg polarons, where an electron orbits a nucleus at a great distance while many other atoms are bound inside the orbit. The electrons' path is only slightly influenced by neutral atoms, resulting in a weak bond between the Rydberg atom and the surrounding atoms.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 26, 2018

New research looks to reduce side effects in commonly used drugs

Researchers at Australian National University have identified molecular similarities across six pharmaceutical drugs to reduce unwanted side effects. The study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, aims to inform future scientists on how to design more specific drugs with fewer side effects.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2018

Flu forecasting system tracks geographic spread of disease

Researchers at Columbia's Mailman School developed a method to forecast the spatial transmission of influenza in the US, improving accuracy by 35% compared to previous versions. The system accurately predicts local onset of flu six weeks ahead of time, informing decisions on vaccine distribution and public health measures.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2018

Study suggests new strategy against vascular disease in diabetes

Researchers found that S597 slows progression of atherosclerosis in mice with metabolic syndrome by reducing inflammation and immune cell activity. The peptide lowers blood sugar levels without preventing atherosclerosis, offering a novel treatment strategy for protecting against advanced cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDiabetes·DateFeb 26, 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.

New technology may protect troops from blast-induced brain injury

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a new military vehicle shock absorbing device that may protect troops from traumatic brain injury after a land mine blast. The technology, which reduces blast acceleration by up to 80 percent, has the potential to be adapted for use in vehicle bumpers and other applications.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateFeb 26, 2018

New understanding of ocean turbulence could improve climate models

Brown University researchers discovered that mesoscale eddies in the global ocean tend to merge into larger ones, unlike smaller eddies which break up into smaller scales. This finding could help develop coarser-grained ocean simulations that better capture ocean dynamics.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 26, 2018

Beehive coke ovens and lung cancer in China

Researchers estimate that beehive coke oven emissions are responsible for more than 9,000 lung cancer cases in China. The study suggests that banning BCOs led to a significant decrease in cancer cases, with an estimated 1,500 fewer cases if the ban had been implemented immediately.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2018

Brain can navigate based solely on smells

Researchers developed a novel olfactory virtual reality system that enables the study of how smells engage the brain's navigation system. The study demonstrated that mice can form a map of their surroundings based solely on smells, suggesting a potential new frontier in multisensory VR experience development.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2018

Hearing loss may be tied to memory loss for some

A preliminary study has found an association between central hearing loss and mild cognitive impairment in some people. Researchers discovered that individuals with central hearing loss were twice as likely to have mild cognitive impairment compared to those without hearing loss.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 26, 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.

Brazilian study discovers six new species of silky anteaters

A Brazilian study found that silky anteaters are comprised of at least seven different species, contrary to the long-held assumption of a single species. Genetic analysis and geometric morphometrics revealed distinct differences in DNA and morphology among the six newly identified species.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateFeb 26, 2018

Powerful flare from star Proxima Centauri detected with ALMA

Astronomers discovered a powerful stellar flare erupted from Proxima Centauri, making the habitability of its exoplanetary neighbor Proxima b uncertain. The flare was 10 times brighter than our sun's largest flares and could have evaporated any atmosphere or ocean on Proxima b.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 26, 2018

Demographics can help identify migrants to Canada at high risk of TB

A study published in CMAJ found that older age at immigration and emigration from regions with high TB incidence increase the risk of TB in Canada. Latent TB screening and treatment are suggested as practical solutions to reduce TB incidence in these high-risk groups.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 26, 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.

Marine animals explore the ocean in similar ways

A study mapped global movements of whales, sharks, sea birds, and polar bears to understand ocean travel patterns. Despite size differences, marine animals move similarly through the ocean.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2018

Sea swimming associated with increased ailments

A large-scale research analysis found that sea bathing doubled the odds of reporting general ear ailments and increased the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses by 29%. The study suggests pollution is still an issue affecting swimmers in high-income countries like the UK.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateFeb 26, 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.

UTIA professor earns SAEA's Lifetime Achievement Award

Kimberly L. Jensen, a professor at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, has received the SAEA's Lifetime Achievement Award for her significant contributions to agricultural economics and Southern agriculture. She is recognized for her research interests in bioenergy economics, agribusiness, and environmental labeling.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateFeb 26, 2018

Reforestation and carbon sequestration

Researchers studied the impact of reforestation on carbon sequestration in US topsoils and found that lands undergoing reforestation store increased topsoil carbon. These lands are predicted to sequester 1.3-2.1 petagrams of carbon within a century, offsetting approximately 1% of annual US greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2018

Largest molecular spin found close to a quantum phase transition

Researchers at Bielefeld University have created a molecule with the largest observed spin in a single molecule, equivalent to 120 electrons. The Fe10Gd10 molecule exhibits a quantum phase transition, where ten thousand states become degenerate and exhibit giant entropy values.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature·DateFeb 26, 2018

Genomic survey of elephants reveals recurring genetic admixture

A genomic survey of living and extinct elephants reveals recurring genetic admixture, suggesting a more complex evolutionary history. The study confirms the distinctness of African savanna and forest elephants, while also uncovering signs of admixture among other elephant family members.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 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.

Beaming with the light of millions of suns

Researchers have identified a fourth ULX as a neutron star, shedding new light on how these objects can shine so brightly. The study found unusual dip in the ULX's light spectrum attributed to cyclotron resonance scattering, revealing strong magnetic fields around the neutron star.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 26, 2018

'Is there a doctor on board?' A guide to managing in-flight medical emergencies

The article reviews airline policies and procedures to help physicians manage in-flight medical emergencies. Key findings include the top five causes of medical emergencies, which are lightheadedness/loss of consciousness, respiratory symptoms, nausea or vomiting, cardiac symptoms, and seizures.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 26, 2018

Not enjoying your dinner out? Try putting the phone away

A recent study from the University of British Columbia suggests that using smartphones during dinner with friends and family decreases enjoyment. The researchers found that participants who used their phones during meals reported feeling more distracted and experiencing less enjoyment compared to those who kept their devices away.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateFeb 26, 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.

Flu may impact brain health

Research found that flu strains H3N2 and H7N7 caused memory impairments and structural changes in the hippocampus of mice. The infections also activated brain immune cells and altered gene expression, suggesting a potential threat to healthy brain function.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateFeb 26, 2018

Simplified talk therapy helps ease chronic pain for disadvantaged populations

Researchers found that literacy-adapted group cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and simplified pain education (EDU) significantly improved pain and physical function in patients with chronic pain. The study suggests that CBT can be simplified to improve accessibility without reducing its potency.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 26, 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.

Height and racial stereotyping

A study of NYC's stop-and-frisk policy from 2006 to 2013 found a link between height and police stops for black men. The research also replicated findings in experiments, highlighting the role of perceived threat in racial stereotyping.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 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.

The giant wave that marks the beginning of the end -- the neurobiology of dying

In humans, a massive wave of electrochemical energy release in the brain occurs after oxygen deprivation, known as 'spreading depolarization', which can trigger pathophysiological cascades. Researchers have found that this event is similar to animal studies and that it remains reversible if circulation is restored before nerve cells die.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateFeb 26, 2018

King penguins may be on the move very soon

A study predicts that King penguins will face massive population crashes due to increased food travel distances, potentially leading to extinctions. However, the birds' ability to adapt and find new breeding locations may help them survive.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 26, 2018

Preventing stress, weight-related conditions among bus drivers

A five-year research project aims to help new bus operators succeed early in their driving careers and avoid health pitfalls. The study will assess working conditions, measure the impact of driving on eating, exercise, sleep, and weight, and provide tools for operators to stay healthy.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateFeb 26, 2018

Going with the DNA flow: Molecule of life finds new uses in microelectronics

Researchers at Arizona State University have designed and tested a DNA circuit capable of splitting and combining current, like an adapter connecting multiple appliances to a wall outlet. The use of G-quadruplex DNA improves charge transport properties, enabling the creation of new nanoelectronics.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 26, 2018

Microbial viability in the Atacama Desert

Researchers found evidence of microbial life in the hyperarid Atacama Desert through metagenomics and DNA analysis. The discovery suggests that similar microbes may exist on Mars, adapting to dry conditions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 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.

ICU risk scores perform well as 'continuous markers' of illness severity

A study found that commonly used ICU risk scores can be adapted to provide continuous updates on the severity of illness in critically ill patients. The scores, including APACHE, SOFA, and DRS, showed good accuracy in predicting mortality risk and were more responsive to changes in patient condition.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2018

Variant of the p53 gene increased tumor cell metabolism

A genetic variant of mutant p53 enhanced mitochondrial function, leading to increased tumor cell metabolism and poorer prognosis for breast cancer patients. The study found that this variant was associated with faster migration and higher ability to invade and metastasize in models of lung and bone metastasis.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 26, 2018

NIH awards $4.6 million for chronic pain research

Researchers at UIC will study molecular neurobiology of chronic pain and develop new drug treatments for sickle cell disease patients experiencing chronic pain. The funding aims to understand the role of protein kinases in chronic pain and identify potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateFeb 26, 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.

Nanomaterials: What are the environmental and health risks?

The SUN project has developed an online platform to support industries and regulatory institutions in evaluating potential risks of nanomaterials. The platform provides key discoveries on the interactions between nanomaterials and biological or ecological systems, enabling safer and more sustainable nanotechnologies.

SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateFeb 26, 2018

Scorpion venom component can reduce severity of rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that a scorpion venom component, iberiotoxin, can specifically block the potassium channel in fibroblast-like synoviocytes, reducing rheumatoid arthritis severity. Treatment with iberiotoxin reversed joint damage and inflammation in rat models without inducing side effects.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateFeb 26, 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.

Optical distance measurement at record-high speed

Researchers at KIT and EPFL developed a new type of chip-scale light source generating optical frequency combs in silicon nitride microresonators. This enables highly precise distance measurement at speeds of up to 100 million measurements per second, paving the way for real-time 3D cameras and compact LIDAR systems.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2018