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Science News Archive January 2018 - Page 24


Page 24 of 37

Maintaining canola oil quality

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new technique to analyze isomers in edible oil using HPLC-MS/MS, revealing the specific oxidation compounds in canola oil resulting from heat and light. The study suggests packaging canola oil in dark containers and adding antioxidants like carotenoids to reduce oxidation.

SourceTohoku University·Journalnpj Science of Food·DateJan 12, 2018

Researcher discovers commonalities in brains of people with HD and PD

A new study found that brains of people with Huntington's disease (HD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) show similar responses to a lifetime of neurodegeneration, despite being distinct diseases. Most genes related to immune response and inflammatory pathways are common in both diseases.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·DateJan 12, 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.

The negative impact of climate change on freshwater bodies

Researchers found that rising CO2 levels in freshwater systems can inhibit defence mechanisms of key species like daphnia, which rely on their sense of smell. This could have far-reaching consequences for entire ecosystems, highlighting the need for further studies.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 12, 2018

Scientists identify a key mechanism regulating a protein required for muscle and heart function

Researchers have identified a crucial mechanism in the regulation of titin protein, a key player in skeletal muscle and heart function. The study found that disulfide bonds play a significant role in determining titin's elastic properties, and their formation can cause major changes in the protein's elasticity.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2018

A society divided by reconstruction

The reconstruction of Banda Aceh after the 2004 tsunami has led to socio-economic segregation, with lower-income residents facing increased exposure to coastal hazards. The study found that many tsunami survivors preferred to move inland, but were unable to afford it, leading to a divide between affluent and poorer residents.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 12, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Can muesli help against arthritis?

Researchers at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg found that a fiber-rich diet can reduce arthritis symptoms by changing the intestinal bacteria and increasing short-chained fatty acids. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help slow bone degradation.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2018

Thinking outside the box on climate mitigation

Researchers argue that current emissions pathways are insufficient, requiring broader scenarios with rapid decarbonization and careful consideration of negative emissions technologies. The new scenarios aim to address potential environmental and social consequences of large-scale carbon removal.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 12, 2018

2018 AAAS/Subaru Children's Science Book Prize winners announced

The 2018 AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books recognizes outstanding science books for young readers, including 'Beauty and the Beak' and 'Animals by the Numbers'. The winners showcase engaging science writing and illustration, highlighting diverse topics such as animal statistics and waste management.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateJan 12, 2018

Anxiety: An early indicator of Alzheimer's disease?

A new study suggests an association between elevated amyloid beta levels and worsening anxiety symptoms in cognitively normal older adults. Higher brain amyloid beta burden is linked to increasing anxiety symptoms over time.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 12, 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.

AS medals and awards honor leading astronomers and geophysicists

Professor James Hough receives the Gold Medal for his seminal contribution to gravitational waves, while Professor Robert White is awarded for a lifetime of distinguished achievement in solid Earth geophysics. The awards recognize significant achievements in astronomy and geophysics across various fields.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·DateJan 12, 2018

Pitt study suggests risk management approach to combat EMS fatigue

A new study published in Prehospital Emergency Care suggests that risk management approach can combat EMS fatigue. The guidelines recommend limiting shifts to less than 24 hours, providing access to caffeine, allowing naps while on duty, and educating personnel on fatigue risk management.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPrehospital Emergency Care·DateJan 12, 2018

Black hole spin cranks-up radio volume

Statistical analysis suggests that supermassive black hole spin plays a role in generating high-speed jets and powerful radio waves. Nearly 8000 quasars were analyzed, with O III oxygen emissions found to be stronger in radio loud quasars, implying spin's importance.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·DateJan 12, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Scleroderma study: Hope for a longer life for patients with rare autoimmune disorder

A new clinical trial has found that a stem cell transplant treatment can significantly improve the survival and quality of life for patients with severe scleroderma. The experimental procedure uses chemotherapy and radiation to destroy the body's malfunctioning immune system, then replaces it via a stem-cell transplant.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 12, 2018

Cancer's gene-determined 'immune landscape' dictates progression of prostate tumors

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered that specific genetic events drive distinct immune cell compositions in primary prostate tumors, dictating tumor progression and response to therapy. Profiling patients' tumors based on this new information could lead to more successful clinical trials and tailored therapies.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 12, 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.

New method to map miniature brain circuits

Scientists have developed a new technique to map electrical circuits in the brain with unprecedented accuracy, revealing the detailed architecture of microcircuits. This breakthrough enables researchers to understand how the brain processes complex information and may lead to insights into behavior and sensory processing.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2018

How far to the nearest city? Global map of travel time to cities published

A global map of travel time to cities has been published by the European Commission Joint Research Centre, showing that over 80% of people live within one hour of a city. However, accessibility is not equally distributed across development spectrum, with lower-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa having limited access.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalNature·DateJan 12, 2018

Research suggests Trump's 'Muslim ban' produced rare shift in public opinion

A study suggests that Trump's 'Muslim ban' resulted in a rare shift in public opinion, with over 30% of respondents moving against the policy after its announcement. The researchers attribute this shift to the influx of information portraying the ban as incompatible with American values and egalitarian principles.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPolitical Behavior·DateJan 12, 2018

Asthma costs the US economy more than $80 billion per year

Research estimates that asthma costs the US economy $81.9 billion per year, with 15.4 million people affected annually. The study also found significant disparities in healthcare costs between insured and uninsured individuals.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateJan 12, 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.

New therapeutic approach for advanced lung disease

Researchers have identified new drug candidates that target multiple protein kinase families to reduce inflammation in COPD. The Narrow Spectrum Kinase Inhibitors (NSKIs) show promising anti-inflammatory effects and may constitute a breakthrough in treating advanced lung disease.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 12, 2018

Does an exploding brain network cause chronic pain?

Hyperreactive brain networks may contribute to the hypersensitivity of fibromyalgia. Researchers found that patients with fibromyalgia have brain networks primed for rapid responses to minor changes, leading to explosive synchronization.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 12, 2018

Don't let skiing and snowboarding injuries take you downhill

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends a preseason conditioning program and familiarity with equipment maintenance to reduce the risk of bone and joint injuries. Skiers are more likely to experience lower extremity injuries, while snowboarders are more likely to suffer upper extremity injuries due to falls.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJan 12, 2018

First method to detect illicit drone filming developed

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev develop a technique to detect when a drone is capturing video of a person's location without their consent. The method uses controlled physical changes to modulate data transmitted on the FPV channel, allowing victims to prove privacy invasion attacks were committed.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateJan 12, 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.

Researchers offer new model for uncovering true HIV mortality rates in Zambia

A new study provides a model for accurately measuring HIV mortality rates in Zambia, which is crucial for improving treatment outcomes. The study found that mortality is substantially underreported in routine data, with some provinces showing mortality rates up to 23-fold higher than reported.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 12, 2018

How climate change alters plant growth

A team of researchers at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg discovered the role of a special hormone in regulating plant growth at high temperatures. The findings, published in Current Biology, may help breed plants stable even at high temperatures and produce sufficient yields.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 12, 2018

Research shows importance of second pediatric blood-pressure screening

A new study by Kaiser Permanente found that nearly a quarter of children and teens screened for blood pressure showed elevated readings, but less than half were correctly classified. The research emphasizes the need for a second reading when the first result is high to accurately diagnose hypertension in pediatric care.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of Clinical Hypertension·DateJan 12, 2018

Genetic analysis can improve depression therapy

A new study found that genetic variations in the CYP2C19 enzyme affect escitalopram levels, leading to improved therapeutic outcomes when doses are adjusted accordingly. The research identified a significant difference between patients with high and low enzyme expression, highlighting the potential for personalized medicine.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 12, 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.

Digital technology is helping women to explore their sexuality

Researchers found that digital technology empowers women to discuss new sexual practices and use aids, embracing their previously hidden desires. Women also appreciate the online anonymity offered by personal computers and smartphones, making them more comfortable exploring erotic material.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalSexuality & Culture·DateJan 12, 2018

Study examines genetic link between epilepsy and mood disorders

Researchers found a significant increase in lifetime prevalence of mood disorders among individuals with focal epilepsy, but not generalized epilepsy. The study suggests a shared genetic susceptibility to these conditions, specifically expressed in people with focal epilepsy.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEpilepsia·DateJan 11, 2018

The brain's GPS has a buddy system

Researchers have discovered that brain cells in the hippocampus process spatial information about both oneself and others. This 'buddy system' allows for joint location awareness, enabling rats to track each other's movements through a maze. The findings extend our understanding of the hippocampus' role as the brain's positioning system.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018
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.

Maintaining tiger connectivity and minimizing extinction into the next century

A recent study by National Centre for Biological Sciences reveals that high traffic roads and densely populated urban areas hinder tiger movement in Central India. Simulations show that protected corridors delimited by the NTCA can mitigate this impact, highlighting the need for informed development plans that consider biodiversity and...

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 11, 2018

Restaurant and bar smoking bans do reduce smoking, especially among the highly educated

A new study found that restaurant and bar smoking bans significantly reduce smoking among college graduates, particularly in areas where the bans are comprehensive. Additionally, lower-income smokers are more likely to attempt to quit after a ban is implemented, but may need additional support for successful cessation.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateJan 11, 2018

White graphene makes ceramics multifunctional

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new ceramic material that combines the benefits of white graphene with calcium-silicates. The resulting composite has improved strength, toughness, and thermal conductivity, making it suitable for high-performance applications in construction, nuclear power plants, aerospace, and more.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 11, 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.

Dengue takes low and slow approach to replication

Researchers discovered that dengue virus takes over an accordion-shaped structure within host cells to produce proteins, while avoiding the larger fluid-filled space of the cell. This subtle approach allows the virus to reproduce tens of thousands of times without triggering the body's defenses.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 11, 2018

Organic molecule benzonitrile detected in space

Astronomers have identified benzonitrile, a specific aromatic molecule, in a cold molecular cloud of the Taurus region using radio spectroscopy. This finding provides insights into the composition of interstellar material and its potential incorporation into new stars and planets.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The circadian clock sets the pace of plant growth

A research team led by Elena Monte discovered that proteins acting sequentially in the plant internal clock limit growth until nightfall. The CDF5 gene induces stem growth just before dawn, regulated by PIF and PRR clock proteins.

SourceCentre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 11, 2018

What sort of stream networks do scientific ideas flow along?

Researchers analyzed scientific connections of leading scholars, including Harry Eugene Stanley and Edward Witten, to understand modern scientific cooperation. They used Erdos numbers to visualize the flow of ideas in graphs, revealing a self-organization resulting from power law dynamics in these networks.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Informetrics·DateJan 11, 2018

Scientists identify immune cells that keep gut fungi under control

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified a type of white blood cell that regulates the gut fungal population and protects against harmful fungi. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms leading to ASCA generation, suggesting patients with certain gene variants may benefit from antifungal therapy.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018

UC biologists peek into the past to see the future through tiny spider eyes

Researchers at UC are studying the genetic development of spider eyes to find opportunities for research into human visual challenges. They found that spiders evolved from simple compound eyes to complex eyes over a short period of 50 million years, and that they use similar genetic pathways to build their eyes as insects do.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBiological Bulletin·DateJan 11, 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.

California's water saving brings bonus effects

Water-saving measures in California have led to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and electricity consumption. The study found that the decrease in water usage translated into a substantial electricity saving, equivalent to 1,830 gigawatt hours.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 11, 2018

UT Dallas study: Recent spikes in homicide rates don't tell whole story

A recent spike in homicide rates across the nation doesn't tell the whole story. According to a new UT Dallas study, long-term factors like segregation and poverty play a more significant role in increases than short-term fluctuations. The study found that most cities' homicide rates have remained relatively stable over time.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalHomicide Studies·DateJan 11, 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.

Researchers demonstrate RAS dimers are essential for cancer

RAS molecules act in pairs, known as dimers, to cause cancer and transmit signals that tell a cell to grow and divide. The study provides a foundation for further studies on RAS biology and could potentially pave the way to develop new cancer drugs.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 2018