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Science News Archive January 2018 - Page 12


Page 12 of 37

Retrospective test for quantum computers can build trust

A Singapore-Japan research team developed a new scheme to verify quantum computations after they're completed, allowing customers to check results and protect companies from dishonest users. The 'post-hoc verification' method can be done with or without specialized hardware.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 23, 2018

Warning follows report into online child sexual abuse risk

A new report commissioned by IICSA highlights the growing risk of online child sexual abuse and exploitation. Researchers found that vulnerability characteristics include adverse childhood experiences, disability, and above-average internet use, while digital skills and openness can protect children from unwanted experiences.

SourceLancaster University·DateJan 23, 2018

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome have less bacterial diversity in gut

Researchers found that women with PCOS have less diverse gut bacteria compared to those without the condition. Elevated testosterone levels in PCOS may contribute to these changes, suggesting a potential link between the microbiome and the development of PCOS.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2018

Scientists emulate the human blood-retinal barrier on a microfluidic chip

Researchers have developed a microfluidic device that emulates the human blood-retinal barrier, allowing for the study of its structure and physiological conditions. The device enables cells to communicate and interact with each other like in a living organ, making it an essential tool for boosting in vitro experimentation.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJan 23, 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.

NREL research determines integration of plug-in electric vehicles

Research by NREL found that up to 3% of PEVs on the road (7.5 million vehicles) does not significantly increase residential power demand. However, uncoordinated charging in clusters may overload distribution transformers, requiring infrastructure upgrades.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 23, 2018

Cognitive training helps regain a younger-working brain

Researchers found that cognitive training improved neural activity in older adults, making their brains more energy-efficient. The study suggests that this non-pharmacological intervention could help counteract age-related cognitive decline and enhance brain health.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateJan 23, 2018

Lifesaving microbubbles

Researchers developed stable, self-disrupting microbubbles to carry oxygen in the blood, reducing the risk of embolism. The microbubbles were shown to increase survival rates in rodents with cardiac arrest, providing a potential lifesaving treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 23, 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.

Incentive to move

Researchers have identified the structure of a central protein used by archaea to determine direction, revealing significant differences from bacteria. This discovery sheds light on how archaea can adapt to extreme environments and colonize new habitats.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018

Flu infection study increases understanding of natural immunity

A new study published in mBio found that people with higher levels of anti-HA stem antibodies have less viral shedding when they get the flu, but do not have fewer or less severe signs of illness. The study suggests that these antibody levels are not independent predictors of whether someone becomes sick or how severely.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalmBio·DateJan 23, 2018

A new architecture for miniaturization of atomic clocks

A new architecture miniaturizes atomic clocks using piezoelectric thin film vibration, achieving 30% reduction in chip area and 50% reduction in power consumption. The technology enables high-end frequency standards to be incorporated into wireless devices like smartphones.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·DateJan 23, 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.

Study compares risks between methods of sterilization

A study comparing hysteroscopic and laparoscopic sterilization methods found that hysteroscopic sterilization was associated with a higher risk of gynecological complications, but not with an increased risk of medical outcomes. The study followed 105,357 women in France for one to three years after sterilization.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 23, 2018

Tiny crystals could help predict volcanic eruptions

Researchers have discovered tiny crystals forming deep in volcanoes can signal impending eruptions, offering hope for more effective evacuations and early warning systems. The study, led by Dr. Teresa Ubide, uses a new laser technique to examine the composition of these crystals, which may hold the key to predicting volcanic activity.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2018

Siberian scientists suggested a new method for synthesizing a promising magnetic material

Scientists from Siberian Federal University have developed a new method for synthesizing iron-dysprosium garnet, a promising magnetic material. This method uses anion resin exchange precipitation, allowing for the production of materials with controlled properties and no high temperatures or aggressive substances.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering A·DateJan 23, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Using epigenetic signatures and machine learning to improve diagnosis

Researchers identified unique epigenetic signatures for nine neurodevelopmental disorders, enabling better diagnosis with minimal clinical overlap. The signatures can be used to screen for multiple syndromes simultaneously and distinguish between similar cases.

SourceGreenwood Genetic Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 23, 2018

Sugar tax on soft drinks might drive up alcohol consumption

A sugar tax on soft drinks might increase alcohol consumption due to similar sugar content in many alcoholic beverages. Research suggests that a more nuanced approach to pricing across a range of beverages may be more effective than a single tax.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJan 23, 2018

Frozen in time: Glacial archaeology on the roof of Norway

Researchers have recovered over 2000 artefacts from the edges of contracting glacial ice in Norway, dating back to 4000 BC. The finds suggest a pattern of increased activity in the Late Antique Little Ice Age and again during the Viking Age, likely driven by changes in climate and human migration.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 23, 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.

Earth BioGenome project to sequence all life

The Earth BioGenome Project will map the DNA of all known eukaryotic species, including plants, animals, and single-celled organisms. The ambitious 10-year project is expected to cost $4.7 billion.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJan 23, 2018

Study shows how fetal infections may cause adult heart disease

Research connects preterm birth to adult heart disease by showing that fetal infection and inflammation disrupt genes crucial for normal heart development. This study uses a preterm animal model to demonstrate how inflammation can lead to incomplete heart development, increasing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms and heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·DateJan 23, 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.

Drought defense

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that plants with diverse root microbiomes are more resilient to drought, while those with similar microbial communities struggle. The research also found that recruiting specific bacteria can improve drought resistance.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018

Brain reorganization supports recovery of function in hand transplant recipients

Researchers found that higher-level brain regions can compensate for persistent changes in sensory and movement areas following a hand transplant. The study suggests that non-invasive brain stimulation may improve recovery from nerve injury, paving the way for new approaches to neurorehabilitation for amputees and stroke patients.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJan 23, 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.

So much depends on a tree guard

Researchers at Columbia University found that tree guards can improve street trees' ability to absorb stormwater runoff. The study shows that protected pits absorbed water six times faster than unprotected ones, reducing the load on city sewers.

SourceColumbia University·JournalEcological Engineering·DateJan 23, 2018

Short-course treatment for combat-related PTSD offers expedited path to recovery

Researchers have developed a new, expedited course of treatment for combat-related PTSD that is as effective as traditional eight-week therapy. The study found that prolonged exposure (PE) therapy administered over two weeks resulted in significant symptom reduction and remission rates among active-duty military personnel.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateJan 23, 2018

Rethinking environmental legislation to include the conservation ideas of tomorrow

A new study by ZSL and Utah State University argues that rewilding is a crucial approach to address global biodiversity loss. The research calls for revised legislation to facilitate the inclusion of rewilding in conservation efforts, with a focus on monitoring progress and understanding social impacts.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 23, 2018

Updated guideline for molecular testing and targeted therapies in lung cancer

A panel of experts has issued new guidelines for molecular diagnostic testing and treatment decisions in lung cancer. The updates reflect recent advancements and decades of work to identify the genetic underpinnings of lung cancer, helping oncologists match patients with effective therapies.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalArchives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

WSU study to test sleep technology in chronic insomnia

Researchers at Washington State University are testing a low-cost sleep measurement technology to improve sleep patterns in individuals with chronic insomnia. The technology, known as S+, measures timing, quantity and quality of sleep and provides personalized suggestions for improvement.

SourceWashington State University·DateJan 23, 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.

Rare 450-million-year-old 'cone-shaped' fossil discovery

Researchers from the University of Leicester have discovered a unique 450-million-year-old fossil of a mysterious creature with soft body parts preserved. The discovery provides new insights into the life of the Ordovician period and expands our understanding of the planet's ancient world.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPalaios·DateJan 23, 2018

Live tissue vs synthetic tissue training for critical procedures: No difference in performance

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that training on synthetic and live tissue models did not result in a difference in performance for five critical procedures. The results suggest that further study is needed to determine the effectiveness of simulation training for emergency medicine and trauma teams.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Curcumin improves memory and mood, new UCLA study says

A new study by UCLA researchers found that daily consumption of curcumin improved memory and mood in people with mild, age-related memory loss. The study, which involved 40 adults aged 50-90, showed significant improvements in cognitive power and reduced amyloid and tau signals in the brain.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJan 23, 2018

Leading medical organizations update lung cancer guideline

The updated guideline strengthens recommendations for patients with lung adenocarcinoma, recommending testing for ROS1 mutations and multiplexed genetic sequencing panels. The panel also reaffirmed or strengthened existing recommendations, including testing in relapse for EGFR T790M, with some notable changes.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJan 23, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Insight into heavy periods could pave way towards new treatment

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh identified a key protein driving repair of the womb lining during menstruation, which is reduced in women with heavy periods. Boosting levels of this protein shows promise as a novel, non-hormonal treatment to reduce blood loss and improve tissue repair.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 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.

Building a more flexible plastic

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering have developed a novel solution to prevent plastic waste. They propose using nano-engineering to create a recyclable material that can replace complex multi-layered packaging, mimicking nature's use of few molecular building blocks.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJan 23, 2018

Energy drink use in teens has adverse effects

New research from Chapman University found that 40% of teens aged 13-19 reported an adverse effect while consuming energy drinks. The most common side effects included insomnia, jittery feelings, and heart palpitations. Additionally, some teens mix alcohol with energy drinks and use them for weight loss.

SourceChapman University·JournalTurkish Journal of Pediatric Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Queen's University scientist unlocks gamma ray burst secrets

A team of researchers, led by Dr Gianluca Sarri from Queen's University Belfast, has created the first small-scale replica of a gamma ray burst in a laboratory. The experiment used the Gemini laser to produce a mini gamma ray burst, confirming current models' predictions for magnetic field generation and gamma-ray emission.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 23, 2018

Discovery of the 'pioneer' that opens the genome

Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified a key molecule, Pax7, which acts like a pioneer factor to open specific parts of the genome. This discovery provides insight into mechanisms of genome access and has significant implications for our understanding of cell diversification and disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 23, 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.

Protecting piping plovers

A Michigan State University study reveals that the endangered piping plover population may decline over the next decade due to increasing predator pressure. The researchers developed an integrated population model coupled with a Bayesian population viability analysis to improve accuracy in forecasting population changes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 23, 2018

Prosecuting background check and straw purchase violations depends on state laws

A new study examined prosecutions in Pennsylvania and Maryland following changes in firearm transfer laws, finding increased prosecutions after tougher sentencing in Pennsylvania but decreased prosecutions in Maryland after a court decision redefined private firearm transfers. The study highlights the importance of proper implementatio...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalInjury Prevention·DateJan 23, 2018

A new family of aerodynamic configurations of hypersonic airplanes

Researchers have developed a new family of aerodynamic configurations, called Hypersonic I-shaped Aerodynamic Configurations (HIAC), which aim to improve the efficiency and lift of hypersonic aircraft. The designs feature an extra wing that captures high-pressure airflow, resulting in a significant increase in lift coefficient and drag...

SourceScience China Press·DateJan 23, 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.

Civic engagement in adolescence and young adulthood beneficial for adult development

A new study found positive associations between voting, volunteering, and activism with health, education, and income outcomes in adulthood. However, activism was also associated with more risky health behaviors in adulthood. The study suggests that civic engagement can build community and fulfill social needs.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJan 23, 2018

Function of protein 'smallish' unraveled

The protein 'smallish' plays a crucial role in regulating cell polarity, essential for shape generation and coordinated cell changes. Researchers found that smallish helps control the correct shape of cells, even when knocked out, due to stored proteins in egg cells.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 23, 2018

Scientists block the siren call of two aggressive cancers

Researchers have found that blocking production of the chemical 20-HETE can control glioblastoma and breast cancer growth. The inhibitor HET0016 reduced tumor aggressiveness and invasiveness, slowing disease progression.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateJan 23, 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.

When the eyes move, the eardrums move, too

Researchers at Duke University discovered that moving the eyes triggers vibrations in the eardrums, even without sound. This finding provides new understanding of how the brain coordinates visual and auditory information.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018