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Science News Archive January 2018


Page 3 of 37

An outdoor cat can damage your sustainability cred

A new study reveals that allowing pets to roam outdoors can lead to a decrease in perceived environmental friendliness among bird lovers on social media. Even though property owners exhibit sustainable practices, those with outdoor cats are judged less environmentally concerned.

Viruses prefer cultivated areas to natural areas

A study by international scientists found that viruses cluster in genetically similar organisms and agricultural land, leading to a higher prevalence of viral infections. The research also reveals a vast number of viruses in the natural compartment, which can inform the emergence of plant diseases.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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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.

Benefits of smoking cessation medications diminish over time

A new Tel Aviv University study published in Addiction found that only eight out of 100 smokers benefit from taking smoking cessation medications after a year. The researchers conclude that policymakers should find better methods to help smokers quit and prevent young people from starting to smoke.

Long-term opioid use has dropped among US military veterans

A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that long-term opioid prescribing among US military veterans decreased by 30% between 2010 and 2016. The decline was largely due to a reduction in long-term opioid use, rather than a decrease in short-term use.

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.

Study finds bacteria in milk linked to rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have discovered a link between Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) and rheumatoid arthritis. The bacteria, commonly found in milk and beef, can trigger autoimmune responses in genetically predisposed individuals.

Direct-to-implant breast reconstruction provides good results in older women

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction in women over 65 resulted in good outcomes, including similar complication rates to tissue expander implant (TEI) reconstruction. The DTI approach also showed fewer hospital readmissions and reduced total hospital stay days.

The first step in generating an artificial adrenal gland

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London have successfully generated an artificial adrenal gland using cells derived from urine. The new approach uses reprogramming to create steroid-producing cells that can model adrenal diseases and test personalized treatments for patients with adrenal insufficiency.

Better-educated men = healthier women and mothers in the developing world

Research shows that men with higher levels of education are more likely to support their partners' reproductive and maternal health, including the use of modern contraceptives and regular prenatal care. Women with better-educated partners are up to 55% more likely to deliver their baby in a hospital staffed by professionals.

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.

A crystal method

UCSB researchers have developed a computational method to predict the growth rates of ionic crystals, which may save time and energy in industrial processes. The method uses transition path sampling to understand the events leading up to the transition state, providing insights into the role of water molecules and ion interactions.

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.

Running away from carbon dioxide: The terminal connection

Researchers at RIKEN Brain Science Institute identify a neuronal pathway that enables zebrafish to avoid carbon dioxide. The team found that the trigeminal sensory neurons and the habenula play critical roles in detecting carbon dioxide. These findings shed light on the neurobiology behind avoidance behaviors in animals.

Industry leaders align on the future of precision medicine

The Biogerontology Research Foundation and its partners emphasized the importance of AI in precision medicine at the Precision Medicine World Conference. Two startups, Abreos and Immusoft, emerged as semifinalists for their innovative approaches to precision medicine, including point-of-care assays and immune system programming.

Research finds early childhood program linked to degree completion at age 35

A new study by University of Minnesota researchers found that children who participated in an intensive early childhood education program from preschool to third grade were more likely to complete an associate's degree or higher and a bachelor's degree, with significant gains in educational attainment compared to those in other programs.

Research paves the way for the development of vaccines for emerging viruses

Scientists from Brazil and Senegal discovered the gene responsible for the mild effects of West Nile lineage 8, which could be used to develop a vaccine against more virulent lineages. The researchers found that the substitution P122S induces mutations linked to low replication rates, making it an ideal candidate for a vaccine.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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Northern European population history revealed by ancient human genomes

An international team analyzed ancient DNA from 38 northern Europeans, uncovering that Scandinavia was settled via southern and northern routes. Agriculture arrived in northern Europe through migrating farmers and pastoralists. The study provides new insights into population dynamics of prehistoric northern Europe.

Expert panel issues new guidelines for lung cancer molecular testing

The new guidelines update the 2013 recommendations to include genetic alterations driving lung cancer and new drugs to target these alterations. Testing for ROS1 in all cases of lung adenocarcinoma is now recommended, as well as using circulating tumor DNA and cytology specimens when tissue is unavailable.

E-cigarette flavors are toxic to white blood cells, warn scientists

New research found that e-cigarette flavoring chemicals can cause significant inflammation in monocytes, a type of white blood cell, and many compounds are toxic. Mixing flavors is more damaging than vaping just one, with cinnamon, vanilla, and buttery flavors being the worst offenders.

Scientists discover how gene mutation triggers immune disease

Researchers identified the role of Gimap5 in regulating T cell function and found that GSK3 inhibitors can improve immune system function in mice and restore normal T cell function in human cells. This discovery may lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, or asthma.

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.

Pancreatic cancer: Gene duplication explains tumor aggressiveness

A recent study published in Nature revealed that gene duplication plays a crucial role in explaining the aggressiveness and early metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Researchers discovered that specific gene amplifications occur along various evolutionary pathways of the cancer, leading to tumor development.

New computational method reveals chemoresistance drug targets

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a computational method that reveals chemoresistance drug targets by integrating gene expression level and DNA methylation modification data. The approach identifies TRAF4 as an important gene for chemoresistance in gastrointestinal cancer, including esophageal cancer.

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.

UK regional weather forecasts could be improved using jet stream data

New research from the University of Lincoln found that jet stream changes are significantly associated with UK regional rainfall and temperatures. The study suggests that using predictions of jet stream changes can produce more accurate seasonal weather forecasts on a smaller, regional scale.

Your brain reveals who your friends are

A Dartmouth study found that neural responses to videos can predict friendships, with friends exhibiting the most similar brain activity patterns. The researchers analyzed over 280 graduate students and discovered that even controlling for variables, similarity in neural activity among friends remained evident.

Molecular secrets revealed: Antipsychotic docked in its receptor

Researchers have deciphered the molecular structure of an antipsychotic docked in its key receptor, revealing a deep pocket that could be targeted to design more selective drugs with fewer side effects. This discovery may hold secrets to designing better treatments for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

No definitive causal link between sunbed use and malignant melanoma

Researchers from Saarland University conducted a systematic meta-analysis of studies on sunbed use and malignant melanoma. While they found an association between the two, they identified significant methodological shortcomings in earlier studies. Moderate solarium use was not shown to increase the risk of malignant melanoma.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

The Lancet: Conflict, political instability linked to higher rates of

Research published in The Lancet finds conflict and political instability are key drivers of differences in maternal and child mortality between Muslim-majority and non-Muslim-majority countries. Higher literacy and empowerment of women also positively impact on maternal and child health.

Microcapsules gain a new power -- scavenging reactive oxygen species

Researchers have developed biocompatible microcapsules that can scavenge reactive oxygen species, potentially aiding in antioxidant therapy or industrial applications. The novel microcapsules show improved scavenging rates compared to previous versions and do not degrade with exposure to reactive oxygen species.

Prize awarded to researchers for breeding climate-friendly cows

Danish researchers have developed a method to reduce methane emissions from cattle by 5% through genetic selection, equivalent to 90,000 tonnes of CO2 annually. This achievement has great prospects for climate-friendly bull semen exports and benefits cattle farmers.

Coral reefs are in trouble -- how can people adapt?

An international team of scientists has developed a strategy to help people living in tropical coastal communities adapt to climate change. The key ways to build up adaptive capacity include ensuring assets, providing flexibility, learning about adaptation options, investing in social relationships, and empowering individuals.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Stellar magnetism: What's behind the most brilliant lights in the sky?

Researchers studied spacecraft data to understand magnetic reconnection, a phenomenon that breaks standard laws governing charged particles. The study confirmed theoretical descriptions of magnetic reconnection, which is linked to celestial events such as black holes, pulsars, and supernovas.

UK chalk-stream salmon genetically unique

Research by the University of Exeter and the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust has discovered that UK chalk-stream salmon are genetically unique. The study found distinct differences between chalk and non-chalk salmon, but little genetic differentiation within chalk-stream populations.

New tool for tracking 'kiss-and-run' communication between cells

Researchers developed a new method to track cell-to-cell interactions, dubbed LIPSTIC, which allows for the identification and counting of specific cells involved in immune responses. This breakthrough enables scientists to better understand how the immune system functions in live animals.

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.

What factors make 'age-friendly environments' effective?

Researchers found music and singing, intergenerational initiatives, art and culture, and multi-activity interventions to promote wellbeing and health among older people. These initiatives foster meaningful relationships and make individuals feel valued, benefiting their physical and mental health.

Irish researchers take on global pharma's biggest challenge

Scientists at University of Limerick are teaming up with Enterprise Ireland to commercialize continuous nanomanufacturing technology. The project aims to tackle the biggest challenge facing the pharmaceutical industry today, which is that seven out of ten drugs never reach patients due to poor solubility.

Women beat expectations when playing chess against men

A new study analyzing 160,000 ranked chess players found that women beating expectations when playing against men. The research suggests that stereotype threat has limited impact on women's performance, contradicting previous findings. Women outperformed their male opponents in matches across various rating differences.

Epidemics: The end of containment measures?

A recent study published in Nature Scientific Reports suggests that containment measures during epidemics can make a society less resilient and more vulnerable to economic and social disruption. By limiting mobility, authorities may create greater risks than they mitigate. The study's findings highlight the need for policymakers to con...

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.

Bringing water to the fountain of youth

A new study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution has found that recombination between the X and Y chromosomes takes place in sex-reversed XY females, helping to maintain the Y chromosome. This discovery challenges conventional views of sex-chromosome evolution and provides strong support for the 'fountain of youth' hypothesis.

AU professor wins prize from Innovation Fund Denmark

Associate Professor Ole Green, CEO of Agrointelli, has been awarded the Innovation Fund Denmark 'Innovator of the Year 2018' prize for his work on self-driving agricultural machines and precision spraying. The prize recognizes his efforts to develop smart technologies that create new Danish jobs.

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 Lancet: Global improvement in cancer survival but

The CONCORD-3 study reveals global improvement in cancer survival, with some countries experiencing significant gains, while others lag behind. However, disparities in childhood cancers and incomplete data in Africa limit the accuracy of these findings.

It's not how you play the game, but how the dice were made

A recent study on dice reveals that their design changed significantly over time, reflecting shifting worldviews about luck and fairness. Dice were initially lopsided in Roman times and early medieval periods, but standardization emerged around 1450 with the adoption of Renaissance-era ideas about chance and probability.

Safeguarding children when sentencing mothers

A study by Dr Shona Minson explores the lived experience of children whose mothers are imprisoned, revealing negative impacts on their relationships, education, health, and wellbeing. The research highlights the importance of considering child dependents in sentencing decisions to safeguard their welfare.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.